The Fiji Times highlights three significant stories on its front page for December 2.
Suva residents are expressing their frustration over persistent water supply issues that have been troubling them for months. Dr. Amit Chanan, CEO of the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), assured the community that the ongoing pipeline project from Sawani to Colo-i-Suva is poised to resolve these concerns by next year.
In political news, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka defended his decision to take on multiple roles, including the Immigration Department and the Fiji Police Force, in response to opposition criticism. He emphasized that during the previous administration, there was a “Minister for Everything,” implying that his portfolio structure reflects an evolution of governance rather than a new problem.
Additionally, around 100 Bangladeshi laborers working with a construction firm in Suva voiced complaints about their treatment, claiming they were not receiving their promised wage of $8 per hour. However, the company’s human resources manager stated that the issues raised had been addressed satisfactorily following recent meetings between management and the affected workers.
The article also emphasizes a growing concern regarding safety in inter-island travel after the Lomaiviti Princess 7 vessel ran aground. Although all 245 passengers and 33 crew members were safely evacuated, questions linger about the repeated incidents involving this company in such a short span of time.
As the community reflects on these recent events, there is an opportunity for improvement and growth, especially in ensuring the safety of maritime travel in Fiji. The involvement of regulatory bodies and adherence to best practices could foster a safer environment for passengers, turning these challenges into a push for better standards. By addressing these issues proactively, there is hope that the traveling public will regain confidence in their maritime safety, ensuring a brighter horizon for inter-island transport.
In summary, the article covers ongoing water issues in Suva, political responses to criticisms of government portfolios, labor grievances from Bangladeshi workers, and concerns about safety in inter-island travel following recent incidents. Collectively, these stories highlight the challenges and potential solutions the community faces.
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