The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has expressed their discontent regarding the handling of the proposed Customary Usage of Marine Areas Bill, stating that they were not adequately consulted during its development. Concerns were voiced by GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, emphasizing that the chiefs only became aware of the draft after its completion.
The bill, which pertains to foreshores and maritime resources, intersects significantly with issues of customary ownership and traditional authority, highlighting its importance to the community. The matter was addressed during a special two-day meeting prior to the Council’s May session, where members were presented with the draft alongside a detailed briefing from legal advisers.
Following these discussions, Ratu Viliame met with the Minister responsible for the bill, and both parties agreed that the draft would remain open for further consultations, demonstrating a willingness to engage with the concerns raised by the chiefs. The Council has since delegated the bill to a subcommittee for a more in-depth review.
Ratu Viliame noted that formal recommendations would be put forward once this review has been completed, indicating that the process remains dynamic and responsive to input from the Council. This commitment to ongoing dialogue reflects a constructive approach to addressing the complexities surrounding marine resource management and the rights of indigenous communities.
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