The Navusabalavu landowning unit of Tavualevu Village in Tavua has assured they will work closely with the Government to address issues that have resulted from the 999-year-lease agreement.
Navusabalavu trustee Ovini Bokini Uqeuqe said talk of compensation has yet to be decided but they would not reach an amount until all avenues have been discussed with all stakeholders including tenants.
“As far as the mataqali o Navusabalavu is concerned, we prefer a solution-based approach,” said Mr Uqeuqe.
“There are many issues surrounding this 999-year lease issue and so we prefer to be a part of this consultation process with the other mataqali (Tilivasewa), with TLTB along with the Government and the sitting tenants as well.”
He said they were appreciative of TLTB for taking the bold step of terminating the 999-year lease.
“That in itself is something that we are very thankful for and as it is at the moment, we want to respect the process that they are undertaking now with the Government.
“TLTB is taking a consultative approach, and we see it as a way of sorting this issue amicably.
“We support TLTB and the Government approach in getting everyone involved including the sitting tenants.”
Mr Uqeuqe said the termination of the lease was also a recognition that there was something wrong with the agreement.
“To be able to go ahead and surrender the old lease and begin the process of putting together new leases is something we are really thankful for because we have been trying for so many years to find a solution around this 999-year lease.”
