Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica emphasizes the importance of allowing sufficient time for consultations with natural resource owners prior to making decisions about development projects. His comments were made during a media conference following a meeting with the Stewards Alliance on Resources (SAOR), which is comprised of the Fiji Council of Churches, the Social Empowerment Education Program Ltd, and landowners from various regions including Navunikabi in Namosi, Laselase in Nasigatoka, Votua in Ba, Navitilevu in Ra, and Silana in Dawasamu.
Mr. Kamikamica acknowledged past issues related to a lack of consultation, stating, “This Government tries to ensure we consult on everything we do.” He assured that ongoing projects will see further consultations regarding their progress.
During the meeting, the alliance members expressed their concerns about various mining and hydro projects. Mr. Kamikamica assured them that their concerns had been noted and validated. The discussions were positively received due to the involvement of iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts Minister Ifereimi Vasu and the general manager of the TLTB, which fostered a constructive atmosphere.
He pointed out that many landowner concerns stem from previous government practices, where inadequate consultation may have occurred. “The assurance we gave is whatever happens, going forward we’ll certainly ensure that consultation is important,” he said.
Mr. Kamikamica also highlighted that the development process would vary depending on the type of project and the specific requirements needed to move forward.
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