No age limit for TLTB lease applications

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iTLTB Regional Manager North Buinimasi Bese (centre) with Sugar Cane Growers Fund CEO Raj Sharma discuss an issue with a farmer at Seaqaqa. Picture: SERAFINA SILAITOGA/FILE

There is no age limit to applicants seeking leases with the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (TLTB), says North regional manager Buinimasi Bese.

However, Mr Bese encouraged applicants to apply with a next-of-kin, such as their children or adult grandchildren. In consultations with canefarmers in Macuata, Mr Bese said many farmers have queried the TLTB office about this issue.

“There is no age limit, but we encourage applicants of an older age to jointly apply with their children or adult grandchildren who will be able to do farm work with them,” he said.

“We have seen farms lying idle even after renewal because there is no young person to assist the older applicant.

“When renewing leases, you must remember to cultivate it which is why we need a next of kin like their children to apply with the older parents.”