The recent two-day Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) convened at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva incurred a total expenditure of $200,000, as confirmed by GCC Chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula. The funding for the event was sourced from the i-Taukei Trust Fund, which plays a crucial role in supporting the initiatives and operations of the Council.
Seruvakula acknowledged that although the expenses were significant, careful management contributed to keeping costs in check. “We’ve done our best, bringing resources from all over to make this meeting happen. One of the largest expenses has been the venue,” he shared.
The decision to choose the Grand Pacific Hotel was made after thorough evaluation of the council’s requirements. The initial venue considered was unsuitable for the meeting, prompting the move to GPH, which provided the necessary comfort and facilities for the Council’s needs.
Looking ahead, Seruvakula mentioned that the subsequent GCC meeting is set for May 2025 at a newly constructed complex, which is anticipated to help reduce logistical costs associated with venue hiring. He emphasized that the meeting’s budget mirrored the significance of creating an appropriate environment for discussions, which engage paramount chiefs and provincial leaders in addressing key issues impacting i-Taukei communities.
The successful conclusion of the meeting paves the way for future gatherings to be conducted in improved settings, potentially fostering more productive dialogues among the leaders. This proactive approach not only reflects the care taken in organizing such essential meetings but also signals a commitment to supporting the i-Taukei community effectively.
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