As the Department of Lands has admitted that it mistakenly issued a foreshore lease to Nawi Island Marina in Savusavu, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stressed any decision they make will follow the law and must benefit the people of Savusavu and Vanua Levu for the long term.
The Department’s mistake led to a serious dispute with the Copra Shed Marina as Nawi Island currently holds the lease, but the department acknowledges that it was granted in error due to administrative oversight.
Rabuka says government agencies will continue to consult and assess the situation to find a fair and lasting solution.
The Prime Minister says he met with members of the Savusavu business community to discuss the ongoing concerns.
He thanked all the business owners who came and spoke honestly about the issues.
Rabuka says he also appreciated the presentations from government officials, which helped them better understand the legal, environmental, and investment sides of the matter.
He says this issue has been going on for a while.
He says he went to Savusavu to hear from everyone directly.
The Prime Minister has also stressed that they support development, but they must make sure that it is done the right way.
He adds that as the Prime Minister, he wants to assure them that their voices will be heard.
