PM affirms stance on reports, projects

Submitted by TemoL on Fri, 02/05/2010 - 12:59

The people of Yavusa Nasaumatua of Daku, Tailevu in traditionally welcoming the leader of Government offered a matanigasau (seeking forgiveness) which was accepted by the Prime Minister, who has blood and traditional ties there.

Mr Bainimarama also called for unity from the people of Nasaumatua and encouraged them to treat all Fiji citizens the same and remove barriers not conducive to Fiji's development.

“Government is happy that many like you here in Daku have accepted the move taken by this Government and the reforms being undertaken," he said.

On Government projects and developments Mr Bainimarama said: “This Government has employed most military personnel (Colonels) to speed and ensure works on the ground are carried out and completed promptly.”

“In the past, most Government projects were stalled due to political influence and this Government is trying to remove all political affiliation on all levels of the community so that all work and reforms be carried out successfully before we go to election."

“Government is not rich and doesn’t have the human resources, but we will do our best to prioritise the projects in the community,” Mr Bainimarama added.

He then toured the village and witnessed part of the village under water since it was high tide. In recent years, the village has been suffering from flash floods and parts of the village have always been covered in seawater whenever during high tide.

Former chief executive of the Fiji National Provident Fund, Olota Rokovunisei who is from Daku, is spearheading the village’s attempt in roping Government assistance to save the village and its livelihood from future disasters.

As village spokesperson Mr Rokovunisei said they have requested Government provide financial and technical assistance for the reclamation of part of their village close to the river to act as a retaining wall buffer to high tide and floods.

“We are also seeking assistance if they could dredge the river to help in the reclamation project,” Mr Rokovunisei added.

“It’s going to cost a lot and the people of Daku have already spent $30,000 on their own to start the reclamation projects."

“We are willing to help finance the project with Government because we have nowhere else to relocate to. If it is not solved now our children will suffer in years to come and we believe this project will solve our flooding problems,” Mr Rokovunisei concluded.