The Government will respect the choices of villagers who have decided to remain in Nabavatu Village, Macuata.

This village has been declared unsafe for dwelling purposes after cracks appeared on the village lawn, partially destroying houses and the church early last year.

Some villagers have chosen to remain in their houses, some who relocated have returned while the rest have stayed in tents at the AOG Church compound in Dreketi.

Minister for Disaster Management and Rural Development Inia Seruiratu said the Government had carried out surveys and tests which revealed that the village area was unsafe because of geological activities.

“It’s the choice of villagers. If they want to remain in Nabavatu then that’s up to them,” he said.

“Government has already made it clear that the village is no longer safe, but if they choose to remain, then we respect their choices.”

For the relocation of others who live in tents, Mr Seruiratu said they were working with other government ministries to finalise necessary transactions for the new site.

“The issue here is that these villagers don’t have a piece of land that is suitable for the new site, so we are looking at any State land that’s available in Dreketi for them to shift to,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“We are working with other ministries and this is taking time as discussions are ongoing and this include the Department of Town and Country planning.

“Government has also put aside some money with the Ministry of Economy for this project.”