CLAN disputes have been identified as one of the reasons why 78 per cent of customary titles in the Lau Province are not dated or vacant.
This was highlighted by the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission senior administrative officer, Kelepi Curuki during the Government’s visit to the Lau Group.
Mr Curuki said dispute between claimants was an ongoing issue and a contributing factor to the large number of vacancies.
He said there were about 316 customary titles, of which 71 titles were occupied while the other 247 remained vacant.
“For the past years we have been trying to help all parties fill these vacant traditional positions and have been urging village headman, district officers and roko to liaise with the people and for the chiefs to address the matter,” Mr Curuki said.
He said they needed the support of the people and the vanua to address the issue
“This issue can only be addressed if the rightful title holders come forward and claim what’s rightful theirs. Another contributing factor is the lack of communication between the parties,” Mr Curuki said.
He said they had informed all the different villagers in the Lau Province that all the vacant titles needed to be filled.
He said they had also reminded villagers that they needed leaders so they could be directed in ways and means to improve their villages, districts and provincial developments.