iTaukei Land Trust Board CEO Solomoni Nata is urging the repeal of specific legislation that weakens the board’s authority and impacts the rights of the iTaukei community.
Speaking at the Indigenous Resource Owners Forum, Nata emphasized the necessity of reviewing certain laws that adversely affect resource owners’ rights. This matter was part of the board’s submission for the review of the Great Council of Chiefs.
Nata highlighted the importance of reassessing several acts including the Mahogany Industry Development Act (MIDA), the Mining Act, ALTA, and the River and Stream and Surfing Act.
“The Surfing Act grants access to our seas to anyone,” said Nata. “This is particularly frustrating because in the Lau Group, as many as 10 yachts can anchor for a day or two without us knowing their origin. Efforts are currently underway to repeal this act, allowing landowners full access to their iqoliqoli.”
He noted that the MIDA holds more power than the iTaukei Land Trust Board, the Forestry Act, and the Environment Management Act.
Additionally, he called for a review of the Agriculture Landlord Tenant Act, which secures lease lands through the Ministry of Agriculture instead of the TLTB. According to Nata, this act empowers tenants to challenge rent payments via tribunals, obligating landowners to compensate tenants when leases expire, regardless of the tenant’s financial conduct.