UPDATED: 8:05am – Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Lands and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Koya while issuing renewed land leases and conducting consultations with state land lessees said the exercise has nothing to do with politics.
“The issuance of leases and consultation is a way of life and the Ministry is here to serve the general public,” Mr Koya said in Rakiraki yesterday.
“This handing over of renewed agricultural, commercial and residential leases and approval notices has been ongoing exercise and is in no way fueled by political ambition and must not be purported as such,” Mr Koya said.
He added that the roadshow and public consultation was for the state land lessees and the ministry was there to hear their thoughts, concerns and issues and discuss possible resolutions.
“The Fijian Government recognises you all as equal citizens of our beloved nation and this equal citizenry is enriched in the 2013 constitution,” he said.
“Through receiving these leases I hope and trust that you are on your way to ensuring the success of your families.”
A total of 99 agricultural leases, and seven residential leases were handed over in Rakiraki.
In Tavua, the minister gave 37 agricultural leases with five residential leases, while 27 agricultural leases with one residential lease handed over in Ba.
The minister will be visiting Lautoka state land lessees at the Sugar Cane Growers Council Hall, Nadi lessees at Nadi Civic Centre and Sigatoka lessees at Talenavuruvuru Hall and Nadroga/ Navosa Provincial Council Compound in Lawaqa today.
-Fiji Sun
