Letters to the Editor

Minimum wage
KUDOS to the nurses’ union for standing tall to fight for the rights of their members.
I am waiting to see when any union will stand up to fight for the rights of the low wage earners in this country. A lot of promises were made in the past about a decent living wage which is yet to be delivered. They deserve to be paid more than the current minimum wage. In fact, in my view no worker should be paid less than $5 an hour given the rising cost of living. I find it hard to believe
that the SMEs cannot afford to pay a minimum wage of $5 per hour to their workers. I know of many small businesses who are already paying more than $4 an hour.
SELWA NANDAN
Lautoka

Race qualification
WISE Muavono (FT 25/8) believes dogmatically he is better qualified to speak on iTaukei poverty because he was born Fijian. How come Paul Geraghty is an expert on the Fijian language even though he is not born Fijian? Could that be because of his serious study of the subject? I believe honestly Wise would only enhance his understanding of the broader structural factors for iTaukei poverty and poverty generally if he undertook relevant study.
RAJEND NAIDU
Sydney, Australia

Pacific leaders have failed us
IT was absolutely gutwrenching to read that despite resistance and criticism, Japan has started dumping nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean. Japan, a powerful rich country, appears to be an outright bully. Quite unfortunately, Pacific leaders are not showing a strong opposition to this issue. They are like “Japan is dumping nuclear wastewater in our ocean. What do we do now?” Well, be stern and stop them! Please don’t go soft just because Japan is a good ally. They want to keep the Pacific at play but also keep them in check. So please Pacific leaders, quit being soft by-standers. Pacific solidarity seems to be broken. Pacific leaders have failed us. They have allowed their ships to cross borders. If the wastewater is safe, Japan must choose to dump it at home, not in our homes.
NADIA NAAZ ASLAM
Ba

Fair pay, good leadership!
THE words, “Nurses deserve fair pay and good leadership” appeared on a banner which was placed in front of the Fiji Nursing Association HQ this week. Thank God, the Coalition Government intervened and there was no strike on Thursday. The right to strike is a fundamental right and the nurses were on the verge of exercising that right. Nothing to panic about – nurses in NZ took to the streets and there was an improvement in their pay and working conditions. The message from the nurses was crystal clear, “We deserve fair pay and good leadership.” FNA claims that nurses
continue to be unfairly paid. This is evident with the migration of skilled and experienced nurses and midwives from our shores. FNA called for the resignation of PS Dr James Fong, chief nurse Colleen Wilson and Health Ministry’s HR director Joe Fuata. I agree with FNA president Dr Alisi Vudiniabola that the massive resignation of nurses for better opportunities continues to happen and a reasonable and fair pay was needed to retain them. It’s important for stakeholders to join hands to prevent the issue from escalating. Nurses sacrificed a lot during the pandemic and their concerns are justified. Give them what they deserve!
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Baffled soul
A TRICKLE of FijiFirst politicians were stopped by the police from participating in the anti-Fukushima demonstration march. Former A-G, Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum who was also part of the rally, found such decision of the law officers to be a “bit baffling” (fijivillage.com). During their 16-year repressive rule, the FijiFirst’s top brass had fervently denied numerous requests from pro democracy supporters to peacefully protest against the atrocities committed by the two-men regime. Opposition forces who demanded change and dared to confront FijiFirst’s dictatorial supremacy and strategies were often met with severe and aggressive repercussions. I wonder why the now insignificant and “baffled” Aiyaz did not find the abhorrent actions of his tyrannical administration a “bit baffling” back then. I suggest he go back to his cave and reflect.
NISHANT SINGH
Lautoka

I am baffled!
FORGET about being a bit baffled, I have to confess that I am entirely baffled. In fact, the situation is so baffling that I had a really good laugh. As per news articles, they wanted to be part of the march. In the Sayed-Khaiyum-Bainimarama era, how many times were people given permits to demonstrate peacefully and raise their voices regarding highly important issues such as workers rights? Let alone march, “January, February’’ and the “rest’’ were in dire need of CPR. Even relevant internationally recognised articles were irrelevant. To make their laughable stand worse, someone told me the treated nuclear wastewater will cause a sea level rise. Hopefully, treated nuclear wastewater does not contain laughing gas. Otherwise, I will need Panadol.
MOHAMMED IMRAZ JANIF
Natabua, Lautoka

After a long time!
IT’S being long that I have witnessed a protest march on the streets of Suva. Now democracy is working? Is it? To our leaders please your decision today will determine your future. Full stop.
Remember four years from today you will be begging the very people on the street now. Funny though that also seen talking on the street are former leaders who abolished union meetings, protests, municipal elections et cetera. Why now?
JIOJI O. TORONIBAU
Labasa

Nuclear waste
TO all those protesting Japan’s decision to discharge treated nuclear wastewater (tritium) into the Pacific Ocean, where do you think countries with nuclear power plants have been dumping theirs all these years? Countries such as UK, US, France, Canada and China.
WISE MUAVONO
Balawa, Lautoka

The breakdown
THE Flying Fijians versus England is an all-important match as it’s the last chance to gauge our chances at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. While there are many views and opinions, this match will boil down to one factor, the break downs. If we are not competitive or manage this aspect of the game well, we may end up breaking down before the fi nal whistle. Otherwise we have a perfect opportunity to break down the English team and create a major upset. Which way will the game swing? I am not sure about you but I am expecting an improved performance against the English. The weekend is also a perfect opportunity to unwind and relax as the pressures of work can sometimes lead to a personal breakdown.
FLOYD ROBINSON
Micronesia

No turning back
JAPAN would have still gone ahead and dumped the nuclear wastewater in the Pacific even if Rabuka had asked Japan not to do so.
SUKHA SINGH
Labasa

Spoilt child, politicians
I DON’T know if “the people will act and not remain silent” if there is “another coup” in Fiji as Colin says (FT 25/8). One thing I am sure of is that all hope for a better Fiji will go down the toilet! So for the love of country no more coup please, please, please!
RAJEND NAIDU
Sydney, Australia

Bad behaviour
I SAY flood the nightclub areas with police at closing time and take rowdy drunkards to task and you would get rid these aggressive and disturbing behaviours. That is the only retaliatory action that these people understand.
EMOSI BALEI
Suva

Japanese people
SEEING Japan, they seem to be the most noble people on Earth. They are very respectful, clean, decent, lovable and they love historical sites and artifacts etc. They love to eat the best blue fin tuna and other marine species from the Pacific I guess. On the contrary, they want to release toxic waste water into the Pacific where we harvest our marine food, the best that the Japanese like.
JIOJI O. TORONIBAU
Labasa

New airbus
THE new Fiji Airways Airbus A350- 900XWB named as The Island of Beqa has arrived to add more capacity to our leading source markets of Australia, New Zealand, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Vancouver and Hong Kong. Said Fiji Airways CEO Andre Viljeon: “We were able to negotiate a lucrative deal to acquire the plane.” As a taxpayer and a contributor to FNPF may I ask Mr Viljeon the amount of his so called lucrative deal? It was fitting to see the traditional ceremony during the welcoming of the new A350 aircraft, attended by government ministers, Fiji Airways staff and crew alongside QVS students with so many other guests. This time around the difference is very clear that when the second A350 Airbus – Island of Vanua Levu arrived I believe the former PM, Voreqe Bainimarama made sure that the special guests would be children from the homes and special schools around Nadi and Lautoka. He even presented them with gifts. Most airlines are making massive profits post COVID-19 so I suggest to the back in action Fiji Airways chairman Nalin Patel to make way for cheaper airline tickets for genuine born and bred local Fijians like me. I should be genuinely recognised as a shareholder or taxpayer and contributor to FNPF.
RAYMOND SINGH
Marine Drive, Lautoka

Potential – A vital gift
LEARN to grow with the potentials Before they fade away
Rise up to the innermost gifts bestowed
Fearlessly fight the fear of trying
Limitless thoughts await action
Free the narrow bondages of mind-sets
Remove the limitations to restrict growth
Challenge yourself
To unlock the unknown and untapped
potential
Believe in the self
Believe in self-competencies
Believe in your worth
Realize the purpose of coming into existence
Become the person you are supposed to
be
Unleash your unlimited potential
To transform potentials into success
Endless possibilities can be achieved
To fulfil your potential
And emerge into a holistic human being.
BHAGWANJI BHINDI
Laucala Beach Estate, Nasinu

National anthem
PLEASE allow me to contribute to the discussion on a Fijian version of the national anthem. As I’ve pointed out a number of times in these columns, ‘Meda dau doka’ is not the Fijian version of the
anthem. There is no Fijian version, it was written only in English. Since some seem to be under the impression that it represents the spirit of the national anthem, let me give an English translation so more people can judge:
Let us all respect and want the land
Where clean people now live
A time of peace and harmony has been
achieved
Unclean behaviour has been abandoned
May Fiji flourish and continuously advance
May the leaders be good men
May the people be led in good things
So bad behaviour will be eliminated.
You young men in Fiji are to blame
Act so the land will be clean
Do not put up with filthiness
And let us now abandon it forever
This is in my opinion not only unidiomatic (‘let us want the land’) but inappropriate in apparently blaming all young men of Fiji for filthiness. I don’t know who wrote it (does anyone?) but it seems to me to have been someone who was not a native speaker. Incidentally, who if anyone has been getting the royalties? If we want a national anthem in Fijian – and clearly I think there should be one, as do many others – I suggest we have a competition to find the best. Also we should consider following South Africa in having a multilingual anthem.
PAUL GERAGHTY
USP, Suva

Moon mission

THE whole world is congratulating India and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for successfully landing their Vikram lander and Pragyan land rover on the South Pole of the moon. The Chandrayan 3 mission was successful at last. India is the fourth country to land on the moon and the very first country to successfully put their flag on the moon’s South Pole. I feel so proud to be an Indian descendant.
DINESH KUMAR
Ba

Indians celebrate historic trip!
INDIA made history as its moon mission became the first to land in the lunar south pole region. India has now joined an elite club of countries to achieve a soft landing on the moon, after the US, the former Soviet Union and China. The Vikram lander from Chandrayaan-3 successfully touched down as planned, and celebrations broke out across the country. In an exclusive interview with BBC Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “India is now on the moon. We have reached where no other country could. It’s a joyous occasion.”
The successful landing has been hailed all over the world and the work of a generation of ISRO scientists has been commended. India’s achievement came just days after Russia’s Luna-25 spacecraft spun out of control and crashed into the moon. The crash put the spotlight on how difficult it is to land in the south pole region where the surface is very uneven and full of craters and
boulders. India’s second lunar mission, which attempted to soft-land there in 2019, was unsuccessful, its lander and rover were destroyed. This achievement shows India’s technological progress, hard work, and commitment in the field of technology, science, and space exploration.
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Moon landing
DISCUSSING India’s Chandrayan’s moon landing at the office, we thought watching pictures from the rover and computer simulations was not exciting enough. Don’t get me wrong: we are
convinced that the landing actually happened, and there are no doubts like the landings of yesteryear! As for the pictures, I told Mr Colleague to wait for the Akshay Kumar thriller that will be made soon on another moon mission, to the north pole this time. He fell for it. Congratulations to India for the feat. Sky is definitely not the limit for you!
DONALD SINGH
Suva

TPAF decision
WAS the decision to scrap TPAF based on some study? Or just the view of a not so smart one.
DAN URAI
Lautoka

Nightclub hours
THE early closing of nightclubs will increase black marketing sales with crime rise. I feel the best would be to get to the root of the problem by closing the nightclubs for good. If you really have to drink and socialise, drink grog with friends and relatives at home without getting drunk. Promote Fiji kava industry.
TAHIR ALI
Hamilton, New Zealand

Soccer tourney
THE international religious soccer tournament must have cost a fortune to be organised at Lautoka’s Churchill Park. Teams from New Zealand, Australia are playing in this tournament. Two girls are referees in this tournament who I believe are school students but did referees duties throughout the day. Can the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Labour take immediate action on the Fiji Football Association and the organisers of the tournament? Second time in two weeks I am highlighting this matter in soccer tournaments. In Nadi school boys were used as ball boys and in Lautoka school girls as referees. I believe this is child exploitation at the highest level.
GEOFFREY CHAND
Lautoka

Thought provoking
COLIN Deoki’s letter last week titled “Many issues” (FT 19/8) was thought provoking. Seems to me the inapt title must have been chosen in haste by an editor as Colin’s subject was clearly not many issues but specifically gender disparity in Parliament, although his mention of gerrymandering muddied the waters. The word “gerrymander” was coined in early 19th century Massachusetts after governor Eldridge Gerry created an odd looking, some said salamander shaped, senate voting district to favor his party. The term gerrymandering is now used universally to describe manipulation of electoral boundaries to favor one party. Gerrymandering is undemocratic but irrelevant to any move towards increased female participation in parliament. Colin Deoki reckons our electoral laws need reform before moving to increase female inclusivity and once we have a truly democratic process the best people will be elected regardless of gender. He admits being conflicted about gender disparity in Parliament “from a democratic perspective”. I wonder if he thinks affirmative action is undemocratic? Because that is what’s necessary for women to achieve equal participation in Parliament. Otherwise, they can wait till the cows come home. He writes from Australia where women now outnumber men in the Senate thanks largely to past affirmative action by political parties and government. If political parties in Fiji care to address gender disparity they need only take affirmative action to select a higher percentage of female candidates in future. Likewise government could pass a law requiring all political parties do so. The term “affirmative action” stems from a 1935 federal law in the USA that gave workers the right to join unions and has come to mean policies that benefit groups of people who have been historically disadvantaged or underrepresented. Affirmative action policies of the democratically elected Qarase government were mostly trashed by the coup regime that followed, much to the detriment of autochthonous Fijians.
WILLARD MILLER
Ellis Place, Suva

Dumping rubbish
RESIDENTS of Bila community in Nadi are still waiting for answers from the Nadi Town Council and Ministry of Health. It has been a month since the last issue was raised and nothing happened, actually the people dumping rubbish has increased. People and business community, please stop! Before I start naming the businesses and individuals with pictures via media or social media. It’s shameful being adult you guys making our environment look bad. It’s really frustrating and an eyesore and health hazard. Please stop it!
VINEEL NAND
Perth, Australia

NFP celebrates 60 years of existence

FOUNDED on strong principles that remained intact today, Fiji’s oldest political party the National Federation Party celebrated 60 years of existence at Penang Sangam Primary School. Fiji’s oldest party has weathered many storms and survived many political battles and is still around. The party is a beacon of hope for many and continues to be the political voice for equality, dignity, and social justice for ordinary Fijians. I agree with Professor Biman Prasad that the party has stood steadfast on the face of dictatorship and survived because it didn’t shirk the founding principles.
The seeds sowed by an ordinary canefarmer the late Mr Tataiya has today become a party in Government. I urge party leaders to continue working for the betterment of ordinary Fijians while in power. NFP’s success is indicated by the solid performance of its MPs- Honourable Biman Prasad, Honourable Pio Tikoduadua, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, and Honourable Lenora Qereqeretabua, who are part of the Coalition Government! As I conclude, I congratulate Parmod Chand on his appointment as party president.
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Issue of bullying
I WANT to draw the attention of the public to a very grave problem in our society which is physical bullying. We have seen videos in which young people have been attacked, robbed, kicked, and even killed with such inappropriate behaviour by some youth and old people for the sake of money and their action. They have been acting strangers and attack young people as if they are responsible for their lives. Young people have been violated and suffering many problems which usually ends up with serious medical treatment. A great number of people are involved in this business and young people have to take responsibility for their actions and behaviour. There is a great risk if this issue is neglected by government authorities as this could lead to other issues such as suicide. These people would not have committed physical bullying if extremely strict action was taken for violating anyone especially children and women. People who are found committing such inappropriate behaviour should be given strict warning or taken to task by the police. I am sure that being proactive and fighting this issue can make people, especially the young feel safe and secure.
ALEKISIO JUNIOR RACULE
Flagstaff, Suva

Transition to renewable energy
A MANAGER from Total Energies, the world’s fourth-largest privately-owned oil and gas producer, said (The Fiji Times, August 23) that they want to be part of the energy transition: “We continue to work on different projects to try and introduce renewable solutions that offset the traditional use of fossil fuels.” He noted that 53 per cent of their 34 service stations in Fiji have solar electricity and this may reach 65 per cent this year. They are also offering solar lanterns to customers. According to their website TotalEnergies. com, the company “is transforming to reinvent energy and become a worldclass player in the energy transition, engaged towards getting to net zero by 2050”. It is encouraging to note that an independent provisional assessment in 2022
concludes that Total’s climate policy in terms of consistency with (or opposition to) the goals of the Paris climate agreement is among the best of over 100 companies studied, although it only partly meets the assessment criteria. Total’s actions in Fiji are positive but very modest, offsetting a tiny amount of the fuel they import and the emissions from their combustion. A genuine commitment to replace a significant amount of petroleum fuel in Fiji might include producing large volumes of biofuels from local agriculture and importing and servicing electric vehicles — cars,
vans and mini buses – with EV charging at its service stations (as it does in many cities in Europe). However its actions in Fiji appear to be “greenwashing”: claims that exaggerate their environmental credentials. Total has also been accused (euronews.com 14 Aug 2023) of “greenlighting” or focusing its ads on a small green part of its operations. Featuring climate-friendly investments is misleading as these are dwarfed by the amount it invests in oil and gas. Total has also been sued (offshore-technology.com March 13, 2022) for greenwashing by Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, Notre Affaire à Tous, ClientEarth and others who argue that it broke European consumer law and misleads consumers with a false promise of carbon neutrality by 2050. The bulk of Total’s capital expenditure (about $F21 billion per year) continues to be directed to oil and gas projects. By 2030, it plans for 85 per cent of its energy sales to still be fossil-fuel based, with less oil sales but an increase in fossil gas sales from 33 per cent of sales in 2019 to 50 per cent in 2030. An independent “Company Assessment TotalEnergies SE” (climateaction100.org/ company/total/ Oct 2022) was referred to in the second paragraph above. TotalEnergies climate policies and commitments are better than those of many other petroleum companies. Nonetheless,
their capital investment plans confl ict with the International Energy Agency’s ‘Beyond Two Degrees’ scenario and fail to align with the Paris Agreement goal to limit global temperature rises to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. I believe Total has not aligned its capital expenditure with decarbonising its operations. I believe big oil companies often falsely present themselves as corporate leaders in the fight against global warming. They should be judged by their actual actions in combatting climate change, not small local investments in solar energy and claims to be energy transition leaders. Can Total meet its stated aspirations with real achievements in Fiji and globally?
PETER JOHNSTON
Tamavua, Suva

Flying Fijians ready for roses

AS part of their final preparation for the 2023 RWC, England and Fiji will face off tomorrow morning at Twickenham Stadium. The hosts are currently ranked sixth, while the visitors are now up to ninth. England comes into this match off the back of a 29-10 loss to Ireland which was their fourth loss in their last five matches, with their only win coming over Wales 19-17 the previous week.
England had a very poor Six Nations by their own standards, finishing in fourth place. During that competition, they lost the Calcutta Cup to Scotland and only managed wins over Wales and Italy.
Looking further back, they have only won three matches in their last ten and have not beaten a side ranked above them in 22 matches. However, on their home patch, the Roses head as favourites. Fiji saw its four-match winning streak end last week against France 34-17. The Flying Fijians beat Japan 35-12, Samoa 33-19, and Tonga 36-20 to secure the PNC title. That run of results helped them overtake Wales in the world rankings. However, like their opponents, Fiji has failed to beat any team ranked above them in over 20 matches. The last time Fiji played England was back in 2016, and they suffered a 58-15 defeat. They have faced each other on four occasions since 1999 and England have won every time. England is a long way from the side they were when they won the Webb Ellis Cup back in 2003, but they have more than enough experience and class to secure a win. Simon Raiwalui has named an explosive outfit, and the crowd in Nadawa is going for a Fiji win. This is the last battle before the RWC. Tovolea mada Viti!
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Untimely deaths
THE president FCGP (Fiji College of General Practitioners) Dr Rajesh Maharaj alerts that we all have to take care of our health for our wellbeing, saving untimely deaths (FT 20/8). The medical authorities always advise us to take precautions on what we eat. The treatments are always expensive. We all have responsibilities in educating ourselves and our children to eat healthy food with
regular exercise. Avoid smoking, alcohol and stress. In food is excellent medicine. In food is bad medicine; good and bad are relatives. You have a choice. Eat well for less.
TAHIR ALI
Hamilton, New Zealand

Good job
ASSISTANT Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran must be commended for working tirelessly trying to address the issue of street kids and the problems faced by them.
Her focus on addressing child negligence and abuse as highlighted by the Child Welfare Act National Database is a vital step in safeguarding the wellbeing of children. The statistics she presented are alarming, with a significant percentage of reported cases involving child neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. Her emphasis on providing a shelter with basic needs, protection from harm, and emotional support reflects a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to raise a child in a healthy and secure manner. By focusing on the holistic wellbeing of children and their development, Assistant Minister Kiran’s efforts are likely to contribute significantly to a more secure and promising future for the younger generation. She is also working with multiple stakeholders to find comprehensive solution that will benefit the street kids. Assistant Minister Sashi Kiran’s commitment to protecting children and preventing abuse is truly praiseworthy and has the potential to create a positive impact on society.
SANJEET PRASAD
Mani Rd, Bulileka, Labasa

Plight of pensioners
I WRITE this open letter to Professor Biman Prasad, the Minister of Finance and Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection to express my disgust with the manner in which the FNPF pensioners (15,000) are being treated. They are running from pillar to post to get what was announced in the budget. Many had believed that it would be an automatic transfer process as all records are with the FNPF. However, this is not true as the pensioners affected through FijiFirst pension reforms have to fill in a form giving all the details (Birth certificate, TIN #, Passport photo and ID card) which are already available to FNPF. But the ailing pensioners have to run around to get all this done. This looks so grossly unfair in this digital age. At the end of all collections they have to get it signed by an authorised person such as Justice of Peace or a civil servant. When will they get rid of this colonial hangover? The FNPF has so far not sent the list of those affected to the Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection for processing the payments. Therefore the pensioners have to go to the FNPF office to request for a statement showing the current payment details. This lackadaisical attitude is simply unacceptable. In my view the application forms should have been posted to all pensioners who qualify for the receipt of the payment. Postal addresses are available on FNPF computers. So why is there so much hassle for them? This group of pensioners had their rights crushed under FijiFirst pension reforms. They could not take the matter to court as a draconian decree was used to block this move. Could the two ministers concerned please look into this matter urgently.
DEWAN CHAND
Namadi Heights, Suva

Good hit out
THE England roses are wounded by ill-discipline with two recent red card send-offs and will use Sunday’s game against the Flying Fijians to redeem, rejuvenate and come out firing to remain
positive going into the World Cup. The Flying Fijians have kept a good discipline record and go into Sunday’s clash with an open mind to win and set a good platform with strong early opponents
in pool play Wales and Australia. We need a good hit out this weekend and why not the build up is required to go toe to toe against Wales and Wallabies. A win to our Flying Fijians will mean we are on track as last week’s loss was probably needed after our winning streak in the Pacific Nations Cup. We need to pull up and face the cruel reality that winning all the time is the birth of complacency. Go Viti, show them to them. Toso. Vacava tacina joka dina.
SHALWYN PRASAD
Mukta Ben Place, Nabua, Suva

Deans rugby

THE under-18 final of the Vodafone Super Deans between Queen Victoria School and Natabua High School is a historical occasion. The Queen Victoria School has had more experience playing at grand finals and had one chance to defeat a western-based school before claiming glory. May the best team win on Saturday but rugby is the biggest winner at the end of the day. I hope that some of these players are spotted by rugby scouts and the coaching team of our Fijian Drua side is watching closely. One should not be surprised if some of these players progress to national rugby, be it sevens or fifteens.
FLOYD ROBINSON
Micronesia

Super battle!
THE adage, “The best prepared team conquers”, will be echoed today in the Capital City as first-timers in the Deans final Natabua High School face the Victorians who have won the prestigious title the most times. QVS recently won the Deans under-18 title in 2016 and 2019 and will be favourites for the final, but Wests top bet should not be counted out. QVS was held 14-all by Suva Grammar, while, in an upset, Natabua ousted defending champions Marist Brothers 29-20. Natabua has a strategic coaching panel and a set which plays with guts, pride, and determination. QVS plays patiently and the blue brigade has been playing in the finals – they understand the expectations, intensity, and electric atmosphere at the national stadium. Natabua’s team bonding will be up against QVS’ passion and courage. The boys from the West can repeat the heroics delivered by Ratu Navula when it became the only Western school to win the Deans trophy in 2013. Ratu Navula proved its critics wrong after beating tournament favourites QVS 19-16. In the under-17 grade, MGM High will be out to create history, aiming to scoop the crown against RKS. The girls under-18 side will also aim to topple Dawasamu for the title. MGM’s success has set the platform for other academic based schools to invest in sports. Wishing the players, old scholars, officials, and team managements all the best! Thanking The Fiji Times for the solid coverage!
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Under-18 Deans finals
I HAD a short conversation with my father on Wednesday evening after returning home to Nadi for my two weeks school holidays. My father said that he had a gut feeling that Natabua High School will create history after the final of the Deans under-18 competition this Saturday as a former Deans player himself during his school days. While I did not agree nor like his comments,
I have to accept the fact that anything can happen, and if any winners to come out from this final, it should be rugby and our local economy as something I learnt at my school as a commerce stream student. As a Victorian student, I will always support my school and again appeal to all loyal fans to come out in numbers on Saturday at Laucala HFC Bank Stadium! #Floreat Viti!
JADON E MASIVESI- QVS STUDENT
Carreras, Votualevu, Nadi

Churches’ role
I REITERATE the same call made by our Attorney-General Siromi Turaga in calling for the churches to seriously look into issues of our women and girls being sexually abused in homes by family members as captured in FT 26/07/23 (Pg.3). My only concern and hope is that the church engages professional service providers such as FWCC to carry out this awareness for its members. Inclusivity of young male members to be part of the training or talanoa is vitally important. Training is an effective tool of raising awareness and additional plea for all churches irrespective of different denominations to include GBV as part of this year’s annual conference strategy and beyond!
JIOJI M CAKACAKA
Carerras-Votualevu, Nadi

Sex education
AN article in The Fiji Times mentioned that a Tamani Rarama of Youth Sexual Network stated that Government should implement the sexual education program fully in all schools as part of the Moana Declaration. Before that happens, I would like to know what is in the content of that program. There are many conservative and religious families in Fiji that would not like our children to be exposed to immoral or harmful information that is pushed as part of mainstream education. There should be easy access for all parents to review the content of any sexual education program before it can be pushed to our children. Parents are an important stakeholder in the education space. This should not be forgotten or pushed aside.
CONAN HATCH
Nadi Airport

Term 2 ends
AFTER 14 long weeks of sailing, we have finally reached the shore. Navigating through extracurricular activities, exams, and syllabus coverage was undoubtedly a challenging journey for all schools. A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers for steering the ship. I hope this break is brimming with joy and positivity. Looking forward to seeing you all refreshed and ready for the upcoming
term! May God bless you all.
RODNEY CLARENCE RAJ
Naleba, Labasa

A much needed break
SCHOOL holidays are an exciting time for children and their families. It’s a chance to unwind, explore new activities, and create lasting memories. As the school holidays have started the onus is on parents and guardians to make sure children take care around water and stay away from rivers and lakes. However, accidents can happen when kids are active and adventurous. That’s why it’s essential for parents, caregivers and guardians to supervise children at all times. Also on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan wishing all the brothers and sisters happiness, health and luck. Happy holidays!
RONITA
Korovuto, Ba

The environment
DPM Manoa Kamikamica ensures that the Government’s top priority is to protect our environment (FT 22/8). We all are responsible to support this cause to survive as we are affected by the climate change crisis. It’s not only Fiji warming, but global warming. The whole world should come together to address this. Protect and save our environment to live and let the others live. A frustration is a way to protection.
TAHIR ALI
Hamilton, New Zealand

Wastewater discharge
SCIENTIFIC evidence indicate that the discharged wastewater met international safety standards. Pacific countries will obviously differ with their views while lacking scientific data to prove
otherwise.
DAN URAI
Lautoka

Trend will not end
THE situation regarding Japan’s choice to release treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean highlights a perceived trend wherein affluent and influential
nations such as Japan, the USA, and Russia tend to act without being held accountable for their actions. USA’s invasion of Iraq, based on questionable intelligence about Weapons of Mass Destruction is often criticised as an example of unilateral military action without strong international consensus. Similarly, Russia’s annexation of Crimea and involvement in Ukraine’s conflict
challenges the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty. Currently, Japan is releasing what they claim to be treated nuclear wastewater into the Pacific Ocean. The significant worry is that this discharge won’t be a short-term occurrence – it’s expected to persist for over 30 years. The exact consequences of this nuclear wastewater release on marine ecosystems and human well-being remain uncertain. Only time will reveal its real effects. Even though we engage in writing critical letters, arrange meetings and protest marches, it seems this trend will not end. Rich, powerful and influential countries will do what they want.
SANJEET PRASAD
Mani Rd., Bulileka, Labasa

No to the dumping
OVER the past 60 or so years Japan has been successful in portraying itself as a friend of Pacific Island countries. Through its Pacific Leaders Meeting (PALM) it has cultivated this apparent friendship at the highest levels. However, its discharge of radioactive waste water in the Pacific Ocean has shattered the trust upon which the friendship with Pacific leaders and peoples Japan has built over several decades. When Japanese people like the Fukushima fishing community and others do not trust the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) and their government, then it is hardly likely that Pacific islanders will trust them either. The UN itself has exposed itself to question and distrust as well. Its International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is in the business of promoting the ‘peaceful’ use of nuclear power. While giving the greenlight for the discharge of 1.3 million tonnes of treated but radioactive water in the Pacific over 30 years, it appears to have left it to TEPCO to monitor the quality of the water being discharged. This is highly irresponsible. This water has tritium which has a half life of more than 12 years and carbon 14 which has a half life of 5730 years. Those who approve the dumping of the radioactive water – TEPCO, Japanese government officials, and UN IAEA scientists will not be around to account for the potential cumulative negative effects of this contamination of the Pacific Ocean. No one really knows the harmful effects of this nuclear pollution on the current and future generations of Oceanians. It is for this reason that the peoples of the Pacific are saying in the strongest possible terms, ‘No’ to the dumping.
VIJAY NAIDU
Nailuva Rd, Suva

I don’t feel reassured
IT’S good to hear PIF chairman and Cook Island PM Mark Brown tell us the “highest level of due diligence and ongoing monitoring of the planned discharge” of Japan’s Fukushima nuclear wastewater in the Blue Pacific will be carried out ( FT 25/8 ). Do I feel assured? No, I don’t and I believe many in the Pacific and elsewhere don’t either for good reason.
RAJEND NAIDU
Sydney, Australia

Lessons of Fukushima!
THE editor-in-chief deserves a pat for his thought-provoking and powerful editorial titled ‘Lessons of Fukushima’ (FT: 25/08). There is great distress and anxiety across the Pacific Oceans as the
Japanese prepare to discharge what they claim is treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. I thought to myself, why the Pacific Ocean, and not the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Southern Ocean, or Arctic Ocean! Japan claims that the release is safe. This has been endorsed by the International Atomic Energy Agency which is the UN nuclear watchdog. Concerns have been raised by NGOs and other civil society organisations, claiming people surrounded by the Pacific Ocean will suffer. The discharge of radioactive water is a serious one
and must be treated with seriousness. The marine life and marine resources in the Pacific Ocean are at stake, and so is people’s health.
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu

Deep hurt
RIGHTLY or wrongly, the commencement of the release of treated nuclear waste water from Fukushima into the blue waters of the Pacific, has “deeply” hurt many who live in isolated islands throughout the Pacific. These “hurts” will fester enduringly. If these treated nuclear water wastes are deemed so good and not harmful to mankind and all marine life etc; than, in my humble and respectful opinion, they should be released into all lakes in Japan, not the Pacific. I beg to differ. Public perceptions are extremely powerful indicators. Peaceful protests will follow. Actions speak louder than words. For generations, Pacific islanders have suffered (and continue to suffer) the harmful effects of nuclear tests. This “discharge” is another hurtful blow for us……. Pacific islanders.
Nuclear sciences, on many occasions, are not easily accepted. They are the words of relevant scientists against opinions of ordinary women, men, youths, girls and boys. A feeling of deep mistrust must ensue.
RONNIE CHANG
Martintar, Nadi