Public consultations on the Kava Bill is underway at Valevoni Village in Saqani, with farmers, yaqona vendors, exporters, importers and other stakeholders urged to come forward and raise their concerns about the proposed legislation.
The Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights will conduct consultations across the country this week to gather public views on the Bill.
Committee Chairperson Rakuita Vakalalabure says numerous concerns have been raised by members of the public, particularly farmers and stakeholders in the kava industry.
He is encouraging everyone affected by the proposed legislation to take advantage of the consultations and have their say.
Vakalalabure says there is no point in simply posting concerns on social media, as the Committee is currently scrutinising the Bill and wants to hear directly from the people.
He stresses that the consultations provide an opportunity for the public to share their views and concerns with the Committee as it reviews the proposed legislation.