Heartbreak Again
Another dramatic comeback was nearly achieved when super-sub Cole Palmer equalized with a cool left strike in the 73rd minute. However, it was not enough for England as Spain snatched victory in the final minutes of the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, Germany. This time, no empty beer cups were thrown by English fans—perhaps they have grown accustomed to being near-men once again.
Congratulations Spain
Spain claimed a record fourth European Championship title by inflicting another painful defeat on England. While Spain was crowned champion of European soccer for the fourth time, England suffered yet another agonizing near-miss in its long history of underachievement. In the Euro 2024 final, Spain dominated from beginning to end, defeating England 2-1 with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring the winning goal in the 86th minute. This loss adds to England’s long drought since winning the 1966 World Cup. Spain’s victory marks its fourth Euro title, following wins in 1964, 2008, and 2012, and they also set a record by winning all seven games and scoring 15 goals in the tournament. Jubilant scenes followed for Spanish fans, while England faced back-to-back final defeats, having lost to Italy in penalties on home soil. Congratulations to the young Spanish team, and England now looks ahead to the next World Cup.
Simply Superb
In the Euro Final, Spain defeated England 2-1. The better team triumphed, playing football beautifully with cool, calm, and clinical control throughout the match. England had moments of brilliance and hope for its fans, but it wasn’t enough. It felt inevitable that Spain would score, which they did in the 86th minute, sealing a deserved win.
Price Increase
Whenever there is an increase in import duty, freight charges, or VAT, the prices of goods go up as these costs are passed on to consumers. While fuel product prices are reviewed monthly, other goods are not. Thus, why the outcry over minimum wage increases? Often, business closures and layoffs are threatened against wage hikes. Most goods are not subject to price control, and there is no monitoring of profit margins. When duties are reduced or freight charges normalize, those savings are rarely passed back to consumers. Isn’t there enough room to absorb the wage increase?
Wait for Justice
If prominent figures like Christopher Pryde and Sharvada Sharma must wait ages for justice, imagine the situation for ordinary Fijians.
VAT Issue
Our Minister of Finance claims that reducing VAT to 9% would cause a $600 million loss in government income. Mr. Minister, you’ve increased the departure tax; can you share the revenue there? As a non-economist who runs a successful business, I must say, pressing harder on investors and economic drivers will cause them to choke, and consequently, the economy too. Go easy. If you want to win, raise VAT to 50%. Only you would benefit. Visit ground zero and see reality. Empower both workers and employers, who are also voters and the economy’s backbone.
Drug Disease
The escalating drug problems combined with climate change are alarming. Awareness reports often appear in The Fiji Times, urging urgent attention and help from neighboring countries. Parents should be held accountable when their children commit drug-related crimes. Prevention, which is cheaper than rehabilitation, is crucial.
That Word
Nishant Singh’s comments on the frequent use of “eh” at the end of sentences drive me crazy. Recently, I switched from Bula FM to Fiji 1 seeking better grammar, only to be disappointed. Even during religious services, the implied question from “eh” disturbs my slumbering mind.
FNPF Withdrawals
Why discriminate against FNPF members who prematurely withdrew funds due to the Review? They were forced to do so by circumstances. The saying “leave no one behind” should apply to the affected in the compensation proposal.
Assassination Attempt
Prominent American leaders have said that violence, like the shooting attack on Trump, has no place in America’s democracy. Though gun possession and access in the U.S. make such violence not entirely surprising, it has happened before with worse outcomes.
The Eh Comment
The use of “eh” at the end of statements is characteristic of a Third World nation. Senior officials using it highlight their third-rate status in a Third World country. It’s part of our tradition.
Nawaka Road
If the pipeline were laid out, it could circle the globe. In nearly a year, potholes have reappeared at Nawaka, Nadi. Will we wait for an emergency birth on the road due to these potholes?
Trump Issue
Gun violence won’t solve problems. Use the ballot box! Explore, dream, discover!
Awkward Situation
How do you handle awkward situations when people around twenty years older address you as aunty or uncle?
Baba’s Loss Huge for Fiji!
The death of Professor Tupeni Baba is a significant loss for Fiji. His contributions to education and politics were immense. Prof Baba was kind, humorous, and respected, surviving the 1987 and 2000 coups and holding prestigious positions. His academic and political work will be cherished. Condolences to his wife, the Vice-Chancellor of Fiji National University, and his family.
Tribute to Dr. Baba
I am saddened by Dr. Tupeni Baba’s death. I met him in 1987 when he ran in the General Election with my father. Dr. Baba was humble, always respectful, and believed in the common good. Despite political disruptions, his academic career flourished. He was a fine gentleman, and his contributions will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Brave Americans
A video of an attempted assassination of Donald Trump shows how brave Americans are. There was little panic, with audiences calmly recording the event. Unlike how movies portray it, a single gunshot didn’t cause chaos.
The post Letters to the Editor | Tuesday, July 16, 2024 appeared first on The Fiji Times.