Like the Lautoka Bus Stand, Jetset Nadi Bus Stand too, could do with a major facelift. Nadi bus stand looks “very tired and worn out, in my view”.

A new coat of paint, for starters, will give it a fresher and “wanted” appearance.

Nadi’s generous hardware outlets could be donors of sufficient quantities of paint required.

Senior Nadi high school students, by special arrangement, (under professional supervision and guidance from Nadi Town Council), could be engaged to provide labour support needed.

Equally so, our fast food outlets could provide complimentary lunches and refreshments.

As your caring retiree, I offer and share a solution for a better Nadi Bus Stand.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Hats off to Wales for putting up a stellar performance by beating Australia.

In doing so the Welsh Dragons did Flying Fijians a favor.

Congratulations to Wales for already qualifying to the RWC quarterfinals, you guys were superb.

Hope Fiji meets Wales again to square things off.

I have a feeling that Fiji will make it through to the RWC knockout stages.

Looking forward to Fiji’s matches against Georgia and Portugal which will determine their future in the 2023 RWC. These are thrilling games to be anticipated.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection has once again raised the issue of child abuse.

This time the abuse of children in Christian homes. This is shocking.

The minister has asked the churches to sharpen their take on child abuse and help find a solution. Will the churches respond? I am skeptical about it.

The street children are too scared to go back home for fear of further abuse.

Keeping in mind the traditional pattern of behaviour we expect parents to show. I think we all are familiar with this pattern.

Thus to expect some solution from homes is delusional.

Most of these homes are strapped in poverty and the parents indulging in alcohol, grog or drug abuse.

Thus these homes are unsuited for child rehabilitation.

I am of the opinion that the Government must build homes for the needy children and house them there and provide skills training.

Once equipped with skills these children will be able to earn a respectable living by honest living.

Yes, here the churches can help by providing spiritual support, counselling and mentoring.

Home visits by the church fraternity will also help. I can only wish the minister every success in her attempt to find a solution to the issue of street children.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

It must and needs to be acknowledged, Jetset Nadi boasts a modern international airport – the home of our own proud national carrier, Fiji Airways.

Denarau, today also boasts a modern sea port good enough for luxury super yachts. The home of South Sea Cruises, of Fijian Holdings fame.

From these two ports, tourism income boasts no less than 40 per cent of our Gross Domestic Product.

This has been made achievable through enormous hard work by thousands over recent years. Some have ‘moved on’ in life. Let us cherish their memories. We thank them all.

Nadi’s ageing and tired looking bus stand requires a new lease of life, in my view. Similarly, Nadi Hospital needs some immediate attention in its profile.

Some doctors, nurses and support staff work very hard maintaining required health delivery services.

There is much room for infrastructure modernisation.

Nadi Hospital badly lacks a qualified and hands-on maintenance person.

Leaking taps, shower facilities, ceiling fans not working, tv’s are only ornaments on walls. Inpatients and outpatients deserve far better.

I speak up as a caring retiree.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Timoci Bure, the Deputy Secretary Primary/Secondary for Education lambasted principals & teachers for their involvement in politics.

He warned that if teachers wanted to save their career they must not get involved in politics: Stay out of politics he ranted. I am shocked at this kind of shallow thinking & teachers unions not reacting.

Is it a ground reality to keep teachers out of politics when they are so heavily involved with serving the community?

This man must be from some other planet to paddle such impractical ideas. Principals and teachers are an educated lot who as a group must speak out on issues affecting education or any other issues affecting any sector of our society.

Yes, as civil servants, teachers are duty bound to carry out the policies of the Government. However, the Fiji Principals Association cannot be gagged ! As an organisation it must raise its collective voice on any issue. This is their fundamental democratic right and no one can shut them off.

Fiji has two teachers organisations: Fiji Teachers Union & the Fijian Teachers Association and teachers are members of these organisations. They are bound to show their political affiliation to political parties who will promote their agenda.

So the talk of keeping teachers out of politics is a load of impractical nonsense in my view.

I have served two terms as president of the esteemed Fiji Principals Association & I reckon teachers must enjoy all fundamental democratic rights to attend political meetings & to speak or write on issues that affect them. They cannot be treated as tame ducks. They are the intelligentsia of society !

My best wishes to all principals & teachers.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Security at this post office has much to be desired – to put it mildly.

The post boxes are located in a separate building across from the car park away from the post office. Letters and packages are taken across the car park by one person. That person has a table in the room where he sorts the letters and mail.

He leaves the table area where some letters and parcels remain while he places letters and parcels into post boxes. This is very poor security.

I have had a number of packages missing where I get tracking details from an international tracking company stating that the packages have cleared customs and are available.

Yet, the Post Office clerks say that they cannot track these packages. Why not?

Why can’t the post boxes be relocated next door to the post office that are empty?

Can postal management please comment?

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Every year, on September 29, the world comes together to celebrate World Heart Day.  

It’s a day dedicated to our most vital organ, a day that reminds us of the importance of heart health. But the significance of World Heart Day goes beyond this date.  

It’s a call to action, a plea to make heart health a lifelong commitment, and an opportunity to raise awareness for a cause that impacts all lives.  

With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) being the leading cause of deaths in the country, cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and stroke) contribute to why so many Fijians are dying prematurely.  

This year, the theme is Know heart: With ‘know heart’. It aims to empower individuals to take control of their well-being as knowledge about heart health is limited.  

But even with the limited knowledge, it is of critical importance to ‘accelerate actions to prevent, detect and manage cardiovascular diseases’, says WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh.  

The World Heart Day celebration in the Capital on Friday saw government agencies, schools and stakeholders amplifying the awareness platform.  

A teacher said stakeholders must rally for this cause because the heart is the lifeline being that it is the most vital organ in the body.  

Our hearts work tirelessly, pumping blood and oxygen to every cell, ensuring our bodies function as they should. Yet, too often, we take this remarkable organ for granted.  

The beat of life continues, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that our hearts keep rhythm with it. World Heart Day is a reminder of this responsibility, but let it also be a catalyst for change that extends far beyond a single day.  

Let us make heart health a lifelong priority, for our own sake and for the well-being of future generations. 

Story By: Ranoba Baoa 

Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj  

Is there any way the Pacific Islands national rugby authorities can strengthen their voices for more international matches against top teams?  

Because that’s the only way Tier Two sides can grow from strength to strength.  

Fiji is centrally located in the Pacific and perhaps receives more international flights. Perhaps Fiji can take the lead by offering more test matches for visting teams against our Pacific brothers in Lautoka or Suva.  

Just as much as Fiji rugby has progressed, let’s not forget our sporting ambitions as a Pacific region.  

If there is a will, then there is a way. Let’s start now so that come 2027, the Pacific teams make a bigger impact. 

Story By: Floyd Robinson 

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj  

In 2022 a scrap metal company began to remove derelict vessels from the Suva Harbour and towed it to Culanuku Village in Serua for dismantling and the scrap metal was to be taken to Lautoka for recycling.  

This was only possible through the mutual agreement between the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), the contractor NZR Enterprise and the head of clan of Culanuku.  

There are about another 28 junk vessels still in the Suva Harbour that will be later towed to the ship graveyard located in the beautiful crystal lagoon and glamorous environment.  

Some years back due to its stunning and picturesque waterfront view a movie was shot there to capture the idyllic sandy beach.  

However, the dismantling process started without any Environment Impact Assessment done and there are eyewitness reports stating the two ships now beached are hazardous to the environment with evidence of oil inside and spillage in the water.  

Apart from the potential damage to the marine ecosystem this industry also can yield a huge amount of solid wastes in the form of scrapped wood, plastic, insulation material, glass wool, sponge, wastepaper, oiled rope and cotton waste which may find its way into our ocean.  

The ships may also contain asbestos.  

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) aims to predict environmental impacts at an early stage in project planning and design, find ways to reduce adverse impacts and shape projects to suit the local environment.  

I believe that this matter was reported to the Director of Environment and the villagers there have not heard again from the ministry relating to the environmental audits that were carried out about a year ago.  

Our environmental law states that anyone who carries out any activity without a approved EIA report is subject to a fine not exceeding $750,00 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or both.  

Such environmental abuse investigation needs to be expedited and corrective action implemented to prevent further harm to the environment.  

I believe that after the conclusion of the audit the environment inspectors must also provide a report to the complainant and notices of compliance with the view of prosecution to the offender. 

Story By: Satish Nakched 

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj  

As a caring senior citizen of Nadi, I bring these issues through our Daily Open Columns, to be properly addressed, in good Faith.  

As a young student this would be my first-time in writing to the letters to the editor.  

I would like to voice out my opinions and how I see the rights given to women and children because it has been an issue on the world today.  

Currently, going through the daily news and browsing through all the headlines and news in our country and around the world, I can pick out that many of the problems faced in the societies and in the world is that many of the young girls, women and even children are at risk due to lack of justice in the country/community.  

Reading articles and hearing news about these types of issues makes me wonder why we are being so looked down upon or so ill-treated?  

Is it because many believed that women belong to the kitchen or is it the perspective of many that women are only to be doing household chores.  

For me this would be a wrong perspective of people because under the Law we are all equal and everyone has their own rights.  

If only women’s voices could be heard and the word violence was not in the dictionary, children would be loved and all be treated fairly and just, maybe this might help a lot.  

But above all, may God be in all of these because only God has the solution in every problem. 

Story By: Lilian Tawake 

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj  

I warmly congratulate Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia, Tui Vuda, on his 93rd birthday.  

What a significant achievement in life. May the Lord’s Blessings be upon him.  

I have an emotional attachment with the Vanua o Viseisei because I was privileged to be the first Indo-Fijian principal of Ba Provincial Secondary School from 1976 to 1987, ten wonderfully exciting years of my career.  

Late Ratu Josaia Tavaiqia was then the school manager.  

I got along very well with him and the school made great strides. Winning the national secondary school hockey championship was one of the highlights.  

I am now living in retirement but still cherish the fond memories of Ba Provincial Secondary School and people of Vuda.  

My best wishes to Tui Vuda and the people of Ba Province. 

Story By: Dewan Chand 

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj  

For the benefit of all affected Nadi Hospital patients, I forward this info to the Minister of Health and Medical Services, with utmost respect. 

As of Tuesday, September 26, 2023, Nadi Hospital pharmacy was “out of stock” of the following prescription drugs: 

– Nifedipine SR Tabs 20mg
– Aspirin Tabs100mg
– Cartia Tabs100mg
– Clopidogrel Tabs75mg
– Losartin Tabs 25mg. 

(There may be other drugs in short supply). 

Non-communicable diseases are preventable. 

Out-of-stock medication does not help. *(Poverty is very real. Many do not get three proper meals each day; every day. Not many patients, these days, can afford to go to private chemists. They cannot absorb these little shocks) * 

This medication shortage is the general periodic trend from many years ago. 

Perhaps, the World Health Organisation can lend our Health Minister a solution to our ongoing periodic medication shortfalls. 

Story By: Ronnie Chang 

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj  

A gutsy, determined, mobile and physical Georgian side really took the FIJI Water Flying Fijians to the wire. Trailing 0-9 at the break, Fiji was truly tested for all of 40 mins.

Fiji and almost all Fijians in all corners of the world, smile brilliantly this Sunday morning, October 01, 2023.

The Flying Fijians came out victorious 17-12. A come-from-behind win. We were totally gutted. A truly hard fought match. We are proud of your total commitment.

Thank you Lord. Prayers answered, again.

Vina va levu na leda saravou. Sa lia na qaqa vina qa lia na waqe kaikai.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj

The subject of producing medicinal cannabis on a commercial scale has once again reared its ugly head for discussion.

The Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small & Medium Enterprise, Manoa Kamikamica, cautiously reopened the subject, which was left behind by the previous government.

Medicinal cannabis is a multi-billion-dollar industry worldwide and everyone seems to be bent upon cashing on it.

It certainly will be a big boost to the economic growth of the country. However, we should also understand the downside and devastating flow on effect of this industry.

It is highly addictive and will spread like a wildfire. Government has appointed a number of taskforce committees to look into the possibility of introducing this industry in Fiji.

From Fiji’s trek record of failures in controlling local marijuana, it is a tall order for the minister to claim for safeguards in its importation of seedlings, growing under secure conditions, processing and then exporting to global consuming centres.

In my view, this is a highly risk prone industry. Once the flood gates are open it will be impossible to arrest the spread.

No one can guarantee the safety of the local Fijian population.

In the name of human rights, they will also demand access to medicinal cannabis.

What will the government do then?

I do not doubt the high-end economic benefits of medicinal cannabis, however, we need to carry out research to find out the status of the  countries where medicinal cannabis has been legalised.

I have seen the devastating effect of this in the United States of America. It will send shivers down your spine!

We would like to trust the judgment of our government in pursuing this venture.

Maybe the religious organisations need to do their homework and advise the government accordingly. I rest my case!

 Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Admittedly, in hindsight, in the Rugby World Cup pool match between the FIJI Water Flying Fijians and the  formidable and mobile Georgian pack, Fiji did not perform to much-desired high expectations.

Naturally, many were left somewhat disappointed. By the same token, we must take much relief the Flying Fijians, though shut out 0-9, for the first 50 minutes, we dug really deep in the remain 30 minutes to salvage a desperate 17-12. Thank you for your dogged fighting spirit.

It is imperative now. Fiji must re-set; re-focus and deliver nothing less than a sublime effort as we take on a mobile and gutsy Portugal side.

The Portuguese will confront us with all gun’s blazing.

They will want to spoil the Flying Fijians’ party.

This will be very real.

Fiji, please know, while we pray and place all our trust in you, you will deliver us all a RWC quarterfinal qualification, and no less. We are banking on you, respectfully.

 Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

As we all know how rich in history and tradition Subrail Park is.

How important this park is, not only to the people of Labasa but Vanua Levu as a whole.

I have been playing there since 1980, yet I see the same shocking and filthy toilet facilities, poor ground conditions (actually 50 per cent is soil, with no grass turf), poor flood lights, wooden seats that causes body aches and back pains, congested car park, and the list goes on.

I wonder what the relevant authorities, like the Fiji Sports Council and Labasa Town Council, are doing about it.

I have not seen any improvements for the past 20 years, I wonder how the OHS even allows people to use the facilities, especially the toilets.

Can someone from the above authorities shed some light if they are having some ” hidden “plans” for Subrail Park?

The Ganilau Park in Savusavu is worse!

Please, stop having games staged in these two venues.

It’s not worth it. After all it’s just for money, I guess.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

I believe that it is the Fiji Roads Authority’s responsibility to ensure that our roads are safe and have adequate administration controls in place and timely maintained.

Road markings perform a key role of guiding and controlling traffic and serve as a psychological barrier and signify the delineation of the traffic path.

It also channelises the movement of pedestrians and cyclists into safe zones.

The road marking paint must be of highly reflective materials, which makes it easier to see even in bad weather or any situation when visibility is poor.

It provides an awareness of approaching danger spots and warns drivers to keep control of their speed.

Nokonoko Rd at Laucala Beach Estate is a busy double lane arterial access to and from the city.

Opposite the popular fish market near the bridge is an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, which has badly faded and lost the white strips on the Suva bound lane due to heavy vehicle movement.

Apart from the signpost, it is a challenge to identify this foot crossing and the risk greatly increases in adverse weather conditions or for any motorist who maybe new in the area.

Marked crosswalks guide pedestrians and alert drivers to a crossing location, so it is vital that drivers and pedestrians clearly see the crossings.

FRA has the duty of care to maintain such infrastructure to ensure road safety.

There are other pedestrian crossings in the Suva area that requires immediate attention too.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

Is there any way the Pacific Islands national rugby authorities can strengthen their voices for more international matches against top teams?

That’s the only way Tier Two rugby nations can grow from strength to strength.

Fiji is centrally located in the Pacific and perhaps receives more international flights.

Perhaps, Fiji can take the lead by offering more test matches for visting teams against our Pacific brothers in Lautoka or Suva.

Just as much as Fiji rugby has progressed, let’s not forget our sporting ambitions as a Pacific region.

If there is a will, then there is a way. Let’s start now so that come 2027, the Pacific teams make a bigger impact.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

The alarm bells are definitely ringing loud and clear.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services needs to heed the worrying messages from the retired Dr Eddie McCaig.

The honourable line minister has much on his plate. The proper delivery of health care is on the wane for many reasons.

Neglect started many years ago. Failure is evident today.

I have, since April 2023, voiced my concerns about “shortfalls” in the delivery of healthcare at the Aspen Lautoka Hospital.

I wrote to the permanent secretary for health then. It has not gone any further since.

It is not my intention to go into details and long drawn-out repeats. In brief, following a health scare in mid-April 2023, my spouse still awaits an echo appointment with Aspen Lautoka Hospital. Clopidogrel Tabs 75 mg for the prevention of heart attacks and strokes were “out of stock” on September 26, 2023.

Nifedipine Tabs 20mg, for high blood pressure, amongst others, were also not available.

As retirees, we had no choice but resort to buy the above from private pharmacies. Sometimes, these “shocks” busted personal budgets. Poverty is real. Does anyone really care?

I recently wrote about several out-of-stock medications from the Nadi Hospital Pharmacy, and do not see a need to repeat them.

This is only the tip of the proverbial “health iceberg”.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services needs a great big helping hand from the World Health Organisation. Our ministry is not coping.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj 

The Flying Fijians featured in the Pacific Nations Cup than had two warm-up matches against France and England before the Rugby World Cup kicked off.

Before they played Georgia, they took on Wales and Australia.

The team over-exerted themselves in those matches.

Rugby is a dangerous game. When you get tackled at high speed, you get hurt and lose power.

Just have a look at the bandages and strappings on our players and you will understand why they were not that good against Georgia.

I hope they recover well before the Portugal matchup.

Oh, one message for Eddie Jones, come to Fiji and start drinking kava.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj