The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) recently convened for a two-day session at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, incurring expenses of $200,000, as confirmed by GCC Chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula. The funds for this gathering were drawn from the i-Taukei Trust Fund, which is dedicated to supporting the Council’s operations and initiatives.
Seruvakula acknowledged that while the costs associated with the meeting were substantial, the expenses were managed with care. He emphasized the effort made to gather resources from various sources to facilitate the meeting. A significant portion of the budget was allocated to the venue, a decision which was made after thorough consideration of the council’s requirements.
The Grand Pacific Hotel was chosen because the initially considered venue lacked the necessary amenities to comfortably host the meeting. Holding the session at GPH ensured that the council members were provided with a conducive environment for their discussions.
Looking ahead, Seruvakula announced that the next GCC meeting is set for May 2025, which will take place at a newly constructed complex. This new venue is anticipated to help lower logistical expenses, particularly those associated with hosting the gathering. He underlined that the meeting’s budget reflects the importance of creating a suitable environment for the deliberations among paramount chiefs and provincial leaders, who address significant issues affecting i-Taukei communities.
The recent meetings underscore the commitment of the GCC to engage with critical matters facing their communities, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
This event highlights the ongoing dedication to preserving cultural leadership and addressing community concerns in a structured, respectful manner. The move to a new facility in the future signals growth and adaptation, laying the groundwork for more efficient and impactful gatherings ahead.
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