Letters to the Editor – letters@fijitimes.com.fj
Reduce airfares to Rotuma
How heartening it must have been for domestic and regional flyers the announcement of a discount on airfares from Fiji Airways.
How about Rotuma?
Surely, we are still on the map, or have we been forgotten … again?
Surely, within the economics, and the politics, and the socialisers, and whatever other “ics” there are, someone can find a way to make air travel to Rotuma cheaper for every Rotuman and not just the haves.
Desperate times call for desperate measures and Rotumans are becoming very desperate when it comes to their isolation.
If only someone can move Rotuma closer to Fiji.
And yeah – dragons can fly us over, that will be the day.
Never give up.
Apao Solomone, Suva
Chopper route
It seems that helicopters in Fiji do not have to have permission/permit to land and take off and also fly in any direction where possible, if it is a short cut to its destination.
I do believe that even helicopters do fall off the sky because of unforeseen circumstances if not mechanical or pilot error and this must cause some concern to the public at large especially living in a residential area adjacent to villages.
If one has to have a permit to fly those quad copters for recreational purposes then why are these passenger carrying helicopters allowed to land recklessly and with no consideration for the residents at Pacific Harbour.
One helicopter has a habit of landing by my villa on Vonu Rd like it is a car park. I can understand if it was for emergency proposes but I can assure you this was just because they can with arrogance.
This is absolutely not acceptable. Then there is another helicopter that frequently flies directly over my villa and several others disturbing our peace.
This helicopter most definitely has a choice of a different flight route but instead has no respect for our peaceful existence.
This is why I need to know from the authorities if this is yet another “one off” debacle like that heavy duty industrial factory allowed to operate not a stone’ throw away from my villa.
If this is so then it is increasingly clear that our civil and basic human right is of no consequence in the moving forward plan.
Peggy Thomas, Pacific Harbour Deuba
Grounded pilot
I refer to the letter by Nardeo Mishra (2/7) in your letters column and I am rather confused by the views expressed. To give another chance to the pilot concerned, is that not a bit hypocritical?
I am not aware whether it has been established whether the accident occurred because of pilot error or not and until such time that is determined this particular pilot should not be put in charge of an aircraft.
If he is cleared because of mechanical failure or other fault in the aircraft or because of a third person then the pilot can be reinstated but not otherwise.
We are aware that in the aviation industry in accidents second chances for the travelling public is very rare indeed.
I for one would like the aviation industry in Fiji to bring in regulations which should require aircraft personnel, whether they be pilots, engineers or cabin staff members, to undergo alcohol/drug tests and also ensure that they are not grog doped when on duty as they have in their care and control the lives of hundreds of people.
If we have a zero tolerance policy in place for road users why not in the air?
No good saying that the same is self regulating because if the people concerned are in conformity then they do not have to worry.
We the travelling public should have a say in who is in control of the aircraft we travel in.
Dorsami Naidu, Nadi
Polling posters
I noticed that taxis now have election posters covering the windows for election campaign.
Can LTA now tell me how this is different to having tints on your taxis. Lighter shade of tints is visible from outside but these aren’t visible at all.
What will LTA do about this?
J Naveen Kumar, Lautoka
Election time
Elections in Fiji after eight years — wow — it seems such a long time ago since Fiji witnessed a proper election.
This time around things are different. One day election, no race-based voting, one person one vote policy, things are surely changing in Fiji.
My basic dilemma still stands in front, will I vote?
At this point, I’m not sure. Do I trust any of the politicians?
No. Do I want to vote?
Yes. For me it’s not a question of who’s a better leader, it’s the hope that someone can lead Fiji to a better future.
People always have this issue that why do I interfere in Fiji politics despite living in New Zealand.
Fiji is my birth country, and it forever will be my foremost home.
I love my country that’s why I write, people should have a problem when I don’t write.
My advice to everyone voting, vote carefully. This time around, the power is in your hand, it’s time to make a difference.
Now only time will tell if that difference is for the better or worse.
Ashneel Prasad, Auckland NZ
Bus service
Someone in authority better carry out an urgent investigation into bus services here in Savusavu.
During peak hours children and adults are jammed into buses like sardines and it’s occurring on a daily basis.
Disrespectful and rude bus drivers is also an issue which has become a common discussion topic among users.
It brings into question the work by LTA.
Surely they see some of these over-crowded buses drive by their town office.
Something is definitely not right here and urgently requires attention.
Not after a disaster but now!
Simon Hazelman, Savusavu
Land use
It is unbelievable that people with abundant land still want the government to help them financially so that they can start farming.
Land is one of the most valuable things a person can have.
The value of the land always goes up, it does not come down.
Land is also one of the most critical topics that most people would not want to discuss about.
We have some people who cry for land and some who have a lot of unused land.
I am wondering if we could have some kind of sharing that both of them could benefit from.
Narayan Reddy, Lautoka
Dog Act
The Dog Act 1971, if any dog on any street, public road or public pathway or in any public place rushes at or attacks any person and whereby any person is injured or endangered or any property is injured or endangered, the owner of such dog shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $100.
This act should be revisited and changed depending on what the scenario is.
The fines are so low that’s why dog owners don’t bother to take things seriously.
What if someone comes under a car and dies because they were chased by the dog, how will this situation be dealt with?
J Naveen Kumar, Lautoka
QUICK VIEWS
Booming Labasa
I am always delighted to see traffic jams of about five to 10 vehicles each morning from the hospital end of the bridge here in Labasa. It is our rush hour just before 8am. This is a healthy sign of growth. After all, it’s cane crushing season too.
Usaia Tagi, Labasa
Lauan move
Should the Fijian Government agree to the Tongans terms, will all Lauans on the main land migrate? If so, then isa, we would be surely missing one of our sekoula gang.
Edward Kumar, Lautoka
Soccer ban
Fiji FA is quite right in banning these young budding talents at all levels of soccer. Unfortunately this is the only appropriate option available to the boys since any internationals after the U20 age group is a taboo in this Fiji FA wonderland. A further $5000 fine is icing on the cake.
Parmendra Sharma,Brisbane
Hospital issue
I was at the Lautoka Hospital and overheard people complaining about slow hospital services and unfriendly medical staff. My advice to them, please don’t get sick or go to a private doctor.
Allen Lockington, Namulomulo
Ungrateful
I refer to Bishop Verma’s article (FT 3/7) and agree about the dangers and health risks of the illegal dump site. The area may not fall within Suva City Council’s boundary but the health authority should seriously consider contracting waste management providers to service the little paradise. Help save lives too.
Vikash Kumar, Suva
Nightclub safety
Floyd Robinson’s description of our nightclubs resemblance is close to hell as it is described in the different holy scriptures, which means our nightclubs are hell on earth. Then why go there? Search for heaven on earth and be safe!
M. Israr Khan JP, Nadi Town
No safety
Of all the bus stands in Fiji, Labasa is the deadliest. There is just no safety. What are authorities doing? They should not wait for an accident to happen before something is done.
Vilikesa Ranatora, Bua
Brazuca
Jabulani was reportedly gifted to Fiji some four years ago through the mighty effort of a chosen one. Brazuca seems to have missed the limelight (but it can be bought from the dealership stores locally). But I could be wrong; another chosen one may well be on his way back home with the Brazuca. The storm that brew out of the Jabulani arrival still lives.
Donald Singh, Suva
YOUR SAY: Lau, tributes, freedom
Lau issue
A chilling sensation crept up my spine when I read the headline “Give up Lau” in the daily (FT03/07) from the Kingdom of Tonga’s Land Minister. What was even more scarier was the fact that the honourable minister was named after the famous Tongan prince Ma’afu who tried to conquer these very same islands. I guess the diplomatic way is much easier than the use of force, and this is the same nation that assisted in the absconding of one of our nationals who was under house arrest.
Hoping that we do not go down back that dark road. God Bless Fiji.
Lawrence Wara, Suva
A man of the people
I wish to pay tribute to the former Archbishop of Suva, the late Archbishop Emeritus Petero Mataca. His passing is indeed a loss to the greater family of the archdiocese of the Roman Catholic faith.
Today the Catholic community in Fiji and abroad and also people of other faiths who knew him, mourn the loss of a great leader, a man of God and of course a pillar of strength to the local churches in Fiji. Archbishop Mataca, created history by being the first local Fijian archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Suva. He played a huge role in steering the Catholic Church from as early as the 70s, weathering the ups and down of this journey.
A man well known for his soft spoken and insightful leadership capabilities, it was also his humility that stood out more than anything else which also brought people closer to his works of mission and to the church. It was not at all easy for the late archbishop to lead the Catholic Church to where it is now, but it was his well-reasoned advice, great commitment and his love for the work of God that withstood the test of time.
As we say goodbye to the late Archbishop Petero Mataca, we also say thank you for the life of this great man whom I consider to be a man of the people.
Waisale Ramoce, Port Vila Vanuatu
Freedom of expression
On June 27, Amnesty International Australia reported attacks against the media were one of the most serious violations of the right to freedom of expression in Fiji.
They elaborated there was a worrying pattern in Fiji of the authorities trying to silence journalists ahead of the elections in September.
I believe this highlights a growing concern regarding intimidation and harassment techniques employed against media outlets, the latest of which involves two journalists from the University of South Pacific, who commented on an apparent admission by the military that they used torture.
The response from Media Industry Development Authority (MIDA) regarding these comments was to investigate the two academics. MIDA has a critical role in ensuring independent, accurate and balanced reporting. I believe silencing journalists for reporting substantiated claims does not pursue this goal.
We have witnessed a worrying trend of the media being heavily controlled by various measures, and I believe we now have a media industry that cannot report independently without fear of reprimand.
I believe this has led to a great deal of self-censorship among journalists and media outlets, which could greatly compromise the ability of the media to report freely and fairly on elections and election issues.
As a signatory of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Fiji should strive to educate and promote respect for Article 19 of the UDHR both in spirit and in form: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers”.
This freedom is also anchored in Fiji’s very own 2013 Constitution and therefore the obligation is on all of us collectively to uphold and protect these constitutional freedoms.
Rev Akuila D. Yabaki, Suva
The stretcher
Many people have started talking about Viliame Satala’s new career in politics standing as a candidate for the next election.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to achieve what you want.
They say the sky’s the limit. No, sky is not the limit.
If people with masters and degrees are leading us why is that we are still re-patching potholes on our roads, why there is no solution for road deaths when those in authority don’t want to listen to those without degrees, why is that unemployment is high when those with degrees cannot find a solution, the list goes on.
Today among us are famous people who have achieved great heights, Steve Jobs (Iphones), Bill Gates (Microsoft), Richard Branson (Virgin Records), Mark Zukerberg (Facebook) and not forgetting Hollywood superstar Sean Connery and television personality Rachael Ray to name a few.
They never set foot in any university.
Even the US have 10 former presidents who never had a college degree including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and the others.
The President of US Barack Obama studied political science and yet he become the president of the world’s leading nation.
I guess our prime minister may have been one of those graduated from military academic colleges but not any universities just like some prime ministers of some country who have military back-ground.
So to those who think they are smarter than the stretcher man why not stand up for the election.
Tagi Vonolagi, Nausori
Party manifesto
Did I miss it or have none of the parties put out their election manifesto yet, and if they are can we access it online?
On a related note, if you have the opportunity, please read the US Declaration of Independence, since it is Independence Day here in the States.
If I may, here’s an excerpt from it: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
“That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organising its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.”
One of the many takeaways from this is that governments get their power from people and not the other way around.
People have God given, not government sanctioned rights to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.
That’s a good benchmark for what you should expect from aspiring leaders.
Happy 4th of July.
Praneet Singh, Sacramento CA
Forgiveness sought
Yesterday, July 4, the US celebrated its 238 years of independence, and, since my paternal ancestor originated from the States from Homer, Michigan, I would like to use this occasion, on behalf of my family and I, to offer an apology.
I would like to apologise to the descendants and living relatives of Kapitoni, a South Sea Islander from Tanna, Vanuatu, as well as to the descendants and living relatives of the other Tanna labourers, for how my ancestor ill-treated their ancestors when they worked under him way back in the 1850s and 1860s.
My ancestor, Achilles Underwood, arrived in Fiji in 1856 after the American Civil War and settled in Rewa, Sigatoka (Emuri) and Kadavu.
He was a “slave owner” and also owned cotton plantations with his business partner George R. Burt in Sigatoka and Kadavu.
He was very very cruel, often locking up the labourers in cages, depriving them of food, punishing them with lemon tree thorns and not being fair and consistent with their wages.
I am apologising to the descendants and living relatives of Kapitoni and the other Tanna labourers because I would like to free my family and our descendants from any generational curses that may stem from the sins of our ancestor and may be affecting our family present-day.
By the same token my family and I would like to forgive all those who had a hand in the death of our ancestor in 1871. All along I had thought that my ancestor was speared or clubbed to death but I was mistaken.
He was actually beheaded and it was painful reading about his death. His death deprived his children of a longer time with their father and of knowing him better especially about his American family that he originated from that could have been passed down. I don’t think any of his grandchildren ever met him.
I hope the descendants and living relatives of Kapitoni as well as the descendants and living relatives of the other Tanna labourers would be able to forgive our ancestor as we forgive their ancestors.
Although we wish that the events did not happen we are still proud to have been descended from Achilles Underwood and we realise that he left one great country to settle in another great country – Fiji.
May God bless Fiji and the US.
LYDIA BUKARAU, Nausori
Electoral issues
As we near elections, it is with integrity that the authority and Elections Office be neutral, ethical and consistently keeping watch for straight and consistent game plays, and like the FIFA games, where the whistle is blown should there be any penalties for any team found at fault.
To the players of Fiji’s current elections, could you please place emphasis and realistic improvement programs in jobs, cost of living, education and health in our country.
Health has not received as much funding as education. We have a sorry state of wornout wards, overcrowding, shortage of beds, medicines and heath equipment in our hospitals.
Our public health system needs money, so please pay the nurses and doctors their dues and also medical provisions needed to uplift our health system.
Could VAT be reduced to help the poor with cost of daily living?
The increase in VAT two years ago from 12 per cent to 15 per cent has just made the rich richer while the poor become poorer.
Lastly, players need to abide by the Constitution of the land and any oath of office taken, any promise or commitment made.
No team can move goalposts to any angle, length and parametre to their liking.
Election is an excellent playing field where we can practise fairplay of respect and tolerance through our diversity and differences.
Finau Naigulevu Turaga, Nadi Airport
The GCC
The Great Council of Chiefs of Fiji have been getting a lot of negative feedback in our dailies.
They are being blamed for everything that has happened in Fiji so far.
Their shortcomings and mistakes, education and business wise are being aired out as reasons for the downfall of Fiji’s once democratic government.
They are not to be blamed.
As an indigenous Fijian, I thank the Great Council of Chiefs for everything we have in Fiji today.
Without them, we would not have all our cities, towns, settlements, hotels, etc.
The various landowning units with their chiefs blessings made all this possible. Where we are as a nation today is because of all the chiefs in Fiji.
Because of the spread of indigenous Fijians over our 300 beautiful islands, in communal villages and settlements, far from our urban centres, the chiefs, the Catholic priests, Methodist talatala and other church pastors had to take up pseudo-political roles on top of their initial roles as leaders and church guardians.
The indigenous Fijians as a community did not have the luxury of modern contraptions like phones, to make their political points known.
The easiest and most prudent way was for them to advise their chiefs or priests right there in their respective villages and settlements.
These chiefs and priests would, in their quarterly and yearly provincial and church meetings present the political points which were forwarded from their people.
All these points would eventually be discussed in their individual august bodies all for the benefit of Fiji as a whole. Was there a better way than this?
As a young democratic nation, there will always be people who take advantage of privileges given. We cannot blame all of them collectively.
In hindsight, we could have done things differently.
But we must remember, we are a young nation and continually learning.
We will get there in the end. And “there will always be greater and lesser persons than ourselves”.
All indigenous Fijians are identified through their land holdings and their chiefs.
Without them, we as indigenous Fijians can never be. Akin, the House of Lords in England our Great Council of Chiefs deserve to be recognised and re-installed as an august and perennial body not only for Fiji’s past, its present and most importantly our future!
May God continue to bless Fiji and its indigenous, and Fijian people.
Epeli Rabua, Suva
Carnival concern
While I applauded the efforts of the Lautoka Farmer’s Carnival 2014 committee members on the success of the festival, I’m deeply saddened that the ground fees for the stalls were very high and it was a challenge in itself to make profit over the week-long festivity.
While some stalls were lucky enough to make profits because of better location – others were not so lucky.
Even genuine requests to lower the fees for those who had lost everything in a recent fire and were struggling to meet the very basics were not considered.
It only makes me wonder if the true purpose of such festivals is charity or all the fun and fame one gets by organising it.
Organising committee members of all such festivals should always remember that the success of such festivals are only truly measured when one is able to make a difference in the lives of the poor and underprivileged and those who genuinely need help.
To me making public speeches and boasting about the success of such festivals where basic humanity is not considered is nothing less than putting fake makeup to cover the face.
I hope all proceeds from the carnival truly goes towards helping the underprivileged students.
Avineel Kumar, Nadi
Hitler’s book
I believe there will be a mixed reaction against the German Government’s decision to impose a post-war ban on Adolf Hitler’s book Mein Kampf (My Struggle) FT(28/6/14: AFP source).
Hitler wrote this book while in jail. An account of his life in which he set out his plan for a revitalised and victorious Germany.
For anti-democracy people this book will be an eye-opener. For revolutionaries, reading this book is a blessing.
For democracy and justice lovers this book is just a megalomaniacal account of an evil man’s life.
Mind you a mere seven years after Hitler wrote this book, his party(Nazi) polled 6.5 million in the general election.
Thereafter, he declared himself reichsfuhrer and chancellor in 1935 with the new order slogan “ein volk, ein reich,ein fuhrer” – One people, One nation, and One leader.
The reincarnation of the book will do grave injustice to people who suffered through the acts of this madman and his bunch of killers.
Anyway, why reincarnate the book of one of the most evil men who ever walked the earth.
Even with the lowest royalty for Nazi lovers, the book should be thrown out.
Amenatave Yaconisau, Delainavesi
Heart attack
I nearly had a heart attack when I read the label on a Malaysian spreadable margarine tub on a local supermarket shelf which states it is cholesterol-free and made from vegetable oil.
Sounds good so far.
I only needed to check the back for ingredients and sure enough, the oil is palm and in the nutritional facts, it contains saturated fats as well as cholesterol!
With all the talk about non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and reducing saturated fats and cholesterol in our diet to healthy levels, this product, misleading advertising aside, should be immediately removed from supermarket shelves.
I consulted a few customers who had already bought the product as it was quite cheap in comparison with the refrigerated varieties and attractive by name and price to the consumer.
They were unaware, surprised and shocked to learn that vegetable oil can be a saturated fat.
This category of saturated vegetable oil includes coconut, palm and palm kernel oil. Often the type of vegetable oil in the product is not identified.
One only needs to see if there is saturated fat in the nutritional facts or information and if so, it will confirm the product contains one of the unhealthy oils.
When one sees vegetable oil on a label, it is associated with “healthy”. On the contrary, it can be quite deceptive and sends a false message to consumers.
Even our local crisp brands will state “only pure vegetable oil”. Check the ingredients and nutritional information.
You will find there is palm and coconut oil used and also there are saturated fats in the product.
Unless consumers understood this and are more aware of misleading branding and labeling, Fijians, along with other Pacific Island neighbours will continue to be burdened with NCDs.
Please can the relevant consumer and media organisations address this, for the sake of our nation?
Julie Sutherland, Suva
PM’s salary
THIS issue had been an interest of ongoing debate in the public and among other political parties who wanted to know PM’s salary.
Some even clarified with confidence that the PM rakes in millions of dollars as salary and so does the A-G.
Now when the salary and the assets and liabilities have been made public, could the people who tried brain-washing the public by overstating the salary inform us as to where they got their first-hand information from or was it simply based on assumptions.
One thing is certain, these political movies are indeed taking its toll nowadays.
Avitesh Kumar, Ba
Brothers in arms in WW1
NOT many of us, especially our younger generation, are aware that there were two brothers from Fiji who saw active action during WW1.
The two brothers in arms were the Father of the Nation, the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna and the Late Ratu Tiale Vuiyasawa.
World War 1, known as the Great War, was triggered off by the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria on June 28 1914, the 100th anniversary of which has just been observed around the world. Britain entered the war in August 1914.
Ratu Sukuna was refused entry into the British Army and instead enlisted in the French Foreign Legion. And, for his bravery was awarded France’s highest military honour, the Croiz de Guerre. This medal among others awarded to Ratu Sukuna are on display at the Fiji Museum.
Following in his older brother’s footsteps, Ratu Tiale Vuiyasawa, who was also refused entry into the British Army, enlisted in the Maori Battalion and served in Egypt and France.
The achievements of Ratu Sukuna after returning to Fiji has been well documented.
Upon his return home in 1919 Ratu Tiale Vuiyasawa lived next door to the Maharaj family in Short St, Kaunikuila (Flagstaff). Both these families have had a long and close relationship for decades. For me Ratu was a man with a very strong emphasis on imparting discipline.
I do recall those days at Flagstaff when Ratu Tiale, well into his later years, would put on his khakis and helmet and go down to weed in his cassava and kumala patch.
At times he would often call me to check whether I had done my homework when I was a student at Marist Brothers High School, just down the road from our homes.
The history books that were issued to us in school to study back in those days did not have anything written about Fijian soldiers like Ratu Sukuna and Ratu Tiale or soldiers from India or Senegal who served in Europe during WW1.
Although Fiji was a British colony, only those of pure European descent living in Fiji were called upon to enlist in the British army!
History is now being retold and the sacrifices and contributions made by the brave coloured men of the colonies of the British Empire are being accorded their due respect and recognition.
Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna and Ratu Tiale Vuiyasawa were two such men from the then colony of Fiji.
In this 100th anniversary year since WW1 ended, may we remember them. Lest we forget.
RAKESH MAHARAJ, Legalega Nadi
Building balcony
ONE issue I’d like to raise with the relevant authorities is in regards to the conditions of overhanging balconies of some buildings in Nausori Town.
While looking down from one of the shops, I was quite surprised to see the amount of stuff piled at building balconies along Brown Lane and Gulam Nabi St.
Things such as empty dirty yellow gallons, plastic bottles, paper scrap and other foreign materials were visible.
By looking at the deteriorating conditions, it can be concluded that these stuff had been there for a while and keeps on continuing.
The above-mentioned can lead to many water and air- borne diseases.
It would be much appreciated if Nausori Town Council and the health ministry also make checks above ground level to maintain the cleanliness of Nausori Town.
Just wondering if upstairs balconies are ever inspected.
SHAMAL CHAND, Nausori
Natural means
THE recent spell of weather is much cooler when compared to the same time around in 2013.
People have had to resort to blankets, pullovers, cardigans and all sorts of clothing or ointments bringing much comfort.
Many are questioning the reasons for the much cooler nights.
While there are several explanations, it is quite possible that this is due to the impacts of climate change which is believed to cause variations in weather patterns.
Climate change is causing many environmental impacts but fortunately human nature is such that it has evolving mechanisms to address changing situations.
Human beings are no exception. In this cold weather partners, mates and lovers are responding with cost effective methods of finding comfort and warmth.
Sometimes the cold leads to more heat. Only time will tell.
In a couple of months there is likely to be an increase in visitors to the maternity units and national statistics will increase.
The beauty about nature is that it has developed natural means of coping with changes in the weather.
FLOYD ROBINSON, Nasinu
TV adverts
SOMEHOW the ads on TV regarding the indiscriminate burning of rubbish is not getting to our citizens.
In Lautoka we see people nonchalantly burning rubbish on the side of the road like it was going out of fashion.
Then there are the twits who burn tyres.
If I had my way some of these people would have been strung up from a tree near their home.
ALLEN LOCKINGTON, Namulomulo
Closure of shop
I READ with interest the closure of the Sanju Reddy’s shop and the adverse effect it would have on about 6000 people of the Seaqaqa Coastal Area (FT/04 July).
I wonder what the authorities were doing for the past 14 years that this shop was operating.
Could the powers that be reopen the shop and assist the shopkeeper if needed to get a proper licence to operate?
Otherwise life will just be a little harder for the people who rely on the services of this shop.
REAPI NAYACAKALOU, Nadi
Racism in Australia
THE recent racial abuse of an individual belonging to a migrant group by an Anglo-Australian woman (which was captured on a video) is not an isolated incident.
Racism is a daily occurrence here and everywhere which minority groups in Australia have to put up with.
The most common behaviour of racist bullies in Australia include the following:
* First, they racially abuse their victims.
* If their racist taunt is captured on the video then they make a public apology to their victims through the media to save face.
* Finally, they finish their racial abuse with a Lord’s prayer.
This behaviour has been prevalent in a majority of recent racist attacks on minority groups in Australia by racist bullies.
To my friends in Fiji if you have future plans to settle in Australia, my very friendly and personal advice to all of us is to do a thorough research on race relations in Australia.
There’s no better place in the world like Fiji.
TRACY WHITE, Melbourne Australia
Back to the West
THE West witnessed its last FIJI Showcase about 15 years ago, which used to be held annually at the historic Girmit Centre in Lautoka.
I believe because of the influx of refugees at the centre at the height of the 2000 upheavals, the organisers have held the fair in Suva since.
In case the organisers still think that the refugees are still sheltering there, please note they have long gone and the Girmit Centre premises are now fully functional to cater for such events.
Why don’t you bring Cookie the Clown and the fun-filled entertainment package back to the burning West, as you used to a little over a decade ago?
NISHANT SINGH, Lautoka
Homegrown music
IT gives us former Fiji musicians now living overseas great pleasure in seeing that the music scene in Fiji has reached heights never before imagined.
The success of the recent charity performances, featuring Fiji musicians based in Australia uniting on stage with their Fiji music family, is heart-warming.
The great news is this reunion of musical creativity goes much further than a few hours of soulful entertainment.
The sharing of musical knowledge and experience among the musicians didn’t stop when the overseas players got back aboard their flights.
There is a long-term plan by people who care to provide aspiring musicians with a platform to learn the craft of their chosen vocation and turn it into a career and a legacy for future generations.
A large group of working musicians overseas, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, have already expressed their willingness to support the Fiji music industry through ongoing workshops and practical learning programs, so that up and coming players can have a future to look forward to. It looks certain that the recent visit by the talented, experienced musos from Sydney, and similar events, will now be a yearly occasion.
This idea of collaboration between overseas and Fiji musicians can only grow.
Other events are in the pipeline, and a Fiji Performing Rights Association awards event later this year will help to put Fiji’s music scene on the map even more. It is appropriate that we say vinaka vakalevu to all involved.
Furthermore, the efforts by working musicians this year, particularly by the two groups, the Suva Musicians Association and the Western Musicians and Entertainers Association to work together towards common goals, should receive universal praise and thanks.
But the future of Fiji musicians and the sustainability of their careers also depend very heavily on an official recognition of the music industry, and of musicians themselves as professionals.
As professionals, these talented people who put their hearts and souls into their work, would need to be paid a minimum wage, have contributions made to the Fiji National Provident Fund and have industry conditions which are the norm in most other industries.
On one side of the equation, we often see recognition of Fiji musicians in the media, or by the thousands of hotel and resort guests who applaud their performances and dance the night away to their music. But on the other hand, when these performers go home, they wonder how they are going to provide for themselves and their families in the longer term.
That’s where the government, and the country, can contribute.
PRAVEEN SHARAN, Sydney
Recruitment drive
A LOT has been said by people regarding the recruitment drive held in the North.
Whoever has said that mostly police officers children were selected from the North is totally wrong.
I am a police officer and even my daughter, who met all the criteria, was dropped after the personal interview.
I believe the interview panel was very fair and professional.
Stop this nonsense of blaming the panel and focus on what’s ahead of you.
Meanwhile, I wish all the successful applicants a very enjoyable training and welcome to the police family.
MOHAMMED KASIM, Guanzhou City Police Guangdon Province Peoples’ Republic of China
Removing footpaths
AS the relevant authorities have begun to work on the construction of four lanes in Nadi, it is sad to see that pavements will be abolished and what a waste of taxpayers, ratepayers money.
My concern is that relevant authorities failed to design a proper plan at first stage or allowing room for extension as that money could have been used wisely now.
A lot of re-digging works will be required now and duplication of work in construction of four lanes.
Anyway, we are happy as traffic congestion will ease and there will be no more blocking of roads when top level diplomats visit.
AMIT ASHISH, Nadi
Well-qualified performance
WITH reference to the allegedly totally unacceptable behaviour of a justice of the peace, as detailed by the Consumer Council of Fiji in your edition of Saturday, June 28, I feel the need to place the following on record:
As a not-infrequent visitor to friends and family in Fiji, my father’s birthplace, I had occasion recently to require, at very short notice, the services of a justice of the peace to take, from me, a Statutory Declaration.
I was referred to a Mr Singh residing on Wailoaloa Rd, Martintar, Nadi.
Notwithstanding the fact that, since it was a weekend, my call upon Mr Singh’s services doubtless caused him some inconvenience, he amply demonstrated courtesy, helpfulness and professionalism of the very highest standards.
The irreproachable manner in which he carried out his duties reflected nothing but the highest credit upon the way in which, he, and I am sure, the majority of Fiji JPs, voluntarily and unstintingly serve their communities.
I did not divulge to Mr Singh at that time, that I myself have been a JP for more than 37 years.
I am a past president of the Royal Federation of NZ Justices Associations and, for more than 20 years, I participated in the training of JPs for both their ministerial and judicial roles.
I am thus well-qualified to comment upon his performance.
One can only deduce that Mr Singh’s conduct throughout our brief contact typified that standard of service which he, commendably, would apply to all who sought his assistance in his capacity as a justice of the peace.
ANTHONY A ISRAEL JP, New Zealand
Do unto others
THE majority of our past and present government hierarchy are Christians.
Here in our present situation, some are calling for the people to abide by the rules.
Nevertheless, to say that unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen with or without our power as Christians, do know that their holy book has a saying commonly known as a golden rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto to you”.
When we pause to think of how we might like to be treated in a certain situation, we build empathy for those who have experienced that situation.
We all like to be treated with respect and one practical way to respect others better is to imagine ourselves in their shoes or clearly is to act what you preach!
AREKI DAWAI, Suva
Player suspension
SUAREZ was suspended for four months for biting a player in international level.
Here some board members suspended three youth players for three years with hefty fines. What are they trying to prove?
On the same token some players from a prominent district manhandled match official in the final and got away with few months suspension.
But three years of suspension is simply stupid in nature. Only in Fiji I guess.
MOSES MANI, Auckland NZ
Writer’s contribution
I HAVE always admired all the writers for their best contribution in the letters column.
Writer’s work is appreciated that’s why his/her letter is printed by the editor.
The letters also greatly help sort out critical issues.
It is a proven fact that matters are sorted out faster by raising them in this column.
It is in this context I want my fellow writers to propel without getting bitterly personal which only damage the repute of the column. Healthy discussions are welcome, nonetheless. Let’s write on issues.
SURESH CHAND, Nadi
Road signs
CAN the authorities please do something about the missing road signs around the Nasinu area.
When the Ministry of Works was upgrading Ratu Dovi Rd in Laucala Beach they removed the sign for Moli Place and it has not been put back.
I went looking for Nawanawa Rd and had to ask someone where it was because the road sign is missing.
I am sure that more road signs are missing and unless one is well versed with the area it is very frustrating trying to get to your destination without driving around in circles.
VITI WHIPPY, Laucala Beach Estate
Nightclub nuisance
WHILE some people have raised concerns on the nightclubs and its noise level, I would like the authorities to consider the amount of noise circulating after the club time ends.
Here in Lautoka City there are many residences and it’s very disturbing to hear people shouting like hooligans once they are out of the nightclubs.
Not everyone knows how to enjoy to their limit. I also agree that the timing should be reconsidered for the nightclubs.
Long hours are really not helping the country and its people but instead it’s only filling the pockets of the nightclub owners who are not responsible for appalling behaviour outside the clubs where people get in trouble and also disturb other people trying to get a good night’s sleep after having a restless day.
While on that I still request the authorities to take into consideration the noise level from religious events where people exceed the noise levels.
In the name of religious event don’t let people disturb the nation. If their god cannot hear them during their praying, then it’s not other people’s problem.
I hope the relevant authorities do something about this issue before this noise level complaints become worse where some people will start taking the issues into their own hands.
KIRTI PATEL, Lautoka
FNPF praise
WE normally read of letters blasting away at FNPF with queries and complaints.
The fund deserves praise for purchasing Vodafone’s entire 49 per cent stake in Vodafone Fiji which makes Vodafone Fiji now 100 per cent locally owned with Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Limited directly owning the remaining 51 per cent shares.
FNPF members should be 100 per cent supporters of Vodafone while loyal Vodafone customers hope that they will keep enjoying all the goodies provided by the company.
SAVENACA VAKALIWALIWA, Nasinu
Airport bus stop
NADI International Airport is a major gateway for thousands of tourists but it is very sad to see that the airport bus stop has turned into a rubbish dump and nothing is being done by the relevant authorities.
A burnt tree has fallen over the footpath and people are throwing rubbish around it carelessly.
Not only the burnt tree can cause tourists to trip over and fall, the rubbish being piled up around it is a major eyesore which is surely sending a wrong message to the tourists that we can’t keep our Nadi clean.
Nadi Town Council administrators should send their workers immediately and get the airport bus stop and the surrounding areas cleaned up and beautified.
When you do come please tell the lady selling mandarines on the airport bus stop footpath that’s its illegal and request her to sell it from the Namaka Market, she will surely make good earnings there.
AVINEEL KUMAR, Nadi
Drugs in Fiji
FRCA’s confirmation that there is indeed a market for hard drugs in Fiji comes without surprise!
I remember quite vividly experiencing hard drugs during my late teens some 30-32 years ago while living in Suva.
I can also clearly remember that it was an expatriate business couple who occasionally brought in the drugs through Nadi International Airport!
The couple opened and ran a popular restaurant back in the day but departed after only three to four years of operation.
Border control wasn’t as thorough as it is now but hard drugs were certainly around a long time ago!
Its 2014 and we are still trying to confirm the demand and supply of hard drugs?
One of the oldest professions in the world is still finding its way to every corner of our planet!
As difficult as authorities make it for drug traffickers, hard drugs will always find a way into any country!
We are fighting a losing battle and we’ve got to carry on!
SIMON HAZELMAN, Savusavu
