GOVERNMENT is ready to commit itself to any partnership with the private sector, says Minister for Primary Industries Joketani Cokanasiga.
He made the comment at the opening of a new rural slaughterhouse, Vanua Halal Butchers in Tabia outside Labasa Town on Wednesday.
The slaughterhouse worth more than $50,000 was an investment by prominent business people, the Begg family.
Mr Cokanasiga said the construction of the abattoir was in line with government's strategic plan in creating development in Vanua Levu.
"With the purchase of this land and construction of the slaughterhouse, we are still committed and we will try our best to assist such ventures for the development of the industry," he said. Mr Cokanasiga said the abattoir would benefit local farmers and the community in terms of cost reduction, employment opportunities and lower biosecurity risks.
"These factors are essential for the profitability of the business itself especially if we want to maintain the economic benefits here in Vanua Levu." He said the new venture would help maintain production and breeding stocks in the area.
"This is a stepping stone to a more economic way and the establishment of a bigger and successful slaughterhouse in the future." Vanua Halal Butchers director Faiyaz Begg thanked the government for its continuous support towards their business. He said the slaughterhouse would employ five permanent staff.