Water problems

Ashok Kumar, Savusavu

We have been without water from last Friday. It just started coming again on Monday.

But this problem has been ongoing for years. Can someone solve this please, for us?

PM, the Tiger of the Parliament

Pramesh Karan, Lautoka

According to the headlines in the Fiji Sun dated 6th July, 2016, our PM has proved to be more tougher and stronger to stand in front of just anyone.

He has always been protecting and leading the people of Fiji and a man who stands by his words.

The headline says “Rabuka No Threat – PM”.

It just gives a very big relief and satisfaction to the people who had gone back in time remembering the days of Rabuka. Surely, as long as we have such a PM, we do not have to fear.

He has the guts to say “Who Is Rabuka? Rabuka has nothing to offer to the people of Fiji; nothing then; nothing now; nothing tomorrow and nothing for our children and grand children.”

I agree with you Mr PM, a snake will always be a snake no matter how many times it shreds its skin.

Don’t bother about snakes it will still be crawling around but you will always be the Tiger of the Parliament and of Fiji.

Sky Pathetic service

Dorine Narayan, Suva

I am extremely disappointed to see how Sky Pacific has utmost no respect for its viewers particularly for the Hindi Channels that is broadcasted anyhow, at any time and with no proper sense of direction of its programmes.

People take their time out to watch their favourite programmes only to find out something else is being broadcasted.

The menu says one thing but something else is shown on screen and for Sony Channel, no programme listing can be seen sometimes.

Match the menu with what is shown on screen please-you will save us a lot of time and confusion. I thought things are going to improve after Digicel took over but the opposite is happening here.

Come on guys, show some respect to your customers and give us a service worth our dollars please.

Fiji Roads Authority

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

FRA recently appointed a new CEO from Australia.

Can we be informed through this column of the number of expatriates currently employed with FRA and in what capacity?

The numbers seem to be growing but not the work?

Are we looking at a case of far too many expatriate managers managing ever fewer local workers?

What about local expertise? What is the current stance, if any, on training locals for senior positions?

I hope this new CEO will lead through high consistent standards and with a particular focus on training and employing locals.

The quality of his leadership will reflect in the standards he sets!

We should see improvement!

Million dollar churches

Rajesh Lal, Labasa

Jesus commanded as His great commission to go and preach His Gospel: “Make disciples and baptise them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”

It is very sad to see churches are moving into the westernised system of investing millions of dollars in the construction of physical churches [buildings] and business rather than fulfilling of His great commission. Christians are called to do His will. Remember God does not dwell in physical churches but rather He wants to dwell inside us as we are the real church [1Cor.6:19-20]

It’s time to wake up for the fat cat churches who have the policy of top table and bottom table.

Proceeded of crime

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka 

I am being told that the houses built by marijuana farmers will be demolished by our Police Force.

I for one do not agree with people farming marijuana but I do not agree with their homes being demolished.

There are a lot of prominent people who have been implicated in various crimes but nobody ever talked about demolishing their house or sell off their property as proceeds of crime.

What happened to all the people who benefited from the so-called agriculture scam and even the people who were named in the auditor general’s report?

Come on authorities, don’t victimise poor people. I was once implicated and I went through hell, but finally after six years the truth was revealed and no one compensated me for all those years.

If that’s what our justice system is like then I am sure our Government can look into it and change the system. After all people are innocent until proven guilty!

Amazing

Ashneel J Prasad, Auckland, NZ 

I think it’s amazing that almost after 136 years the Roko Tui Dreketi has accepted us Fijians of Indian descent as ‘kai Noco’ and a ‘kai Rewa’.

Now we have a heritage and an identity. Proud moment for all of us!

Drones

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

The use of a drone during the recent rugby match between the Chiefs and Crusaders marks a significant step forward in our law enforcement agency’s ability to conduct surveillance.

Such technology allows for a bird’s eye view of people, place, events and infrastructure thereby enhancing efficient decision making with regards to the provision of security.

It has additional benefits such as supporting search and rescue operations as well as initial assessments of impacts caused by disasters such as cyclones.

Whilst there is much benefit, there should be room for discussion on some questions. For example, how can we ensure the protection of privacy of individual’s members of society and public?

Is there a control on the number and types of drones entering the country or sold locally? How many drones are there currently in the country?

All in all, the drones have much benefit but it is prudent that necessary checks are established so that privacy is respected and this technology is not abused.

Hayne’s 7s disappointment

Epeli Rabua, Suva

The King of Fiji’s 7s coaches, ‘the Lion’ Ben Ryan, has dropped one of his more experienced knights in, Jarryd Hayne.

A prelude to the Lion’s quest for a successful crusade to front-up in the presence and shadow of ‘Christ the Redeemer’ in Rio, the tedious work of culling only the greatest of knights to represent the country against the best the world has to offer has begun.

Although, Hayne’s dropping is a disappointment for the man himself and for most of us who saw his inclusion as an inspired choice by Ben, we hope that his work ethic and strong mental skill sets, would have rubbed-off on the rest of his team mates.

And his exploits in the last few weeks during their 7s squad training, has been nothing but positive.

For all Fiji teams going out to battle, the onus is on us to man-up mentally.

We already have the talent, the fitness, the physique, the know-how, however, tend to fail miserably with our mental toughness.

If Hayne has done his job and shown the rest of his fellow knights how to stay mentally strong and apply that ability from the very first game, then the Lion’s knights will come out victorious.

Let the Lion – Ben’s crusade move on. Bring on Rio, bring on the Olympics. We will be ready. Fiji – We Believe We Will Win!

Police vehicles 

Anthony Sahai , Suva

Great news that our Fiji Police Force recently received “26 more new government leased vehicles for a three year term from Asco Motors.”

With the new purchase, there are approximately 199 Police vehicles in current operation.

However, since there are alot of “expensively- fancy” Police four-wheel drives in the current fleet, how about purchasing those “cheap running” or cost-effective and low maintenance Hybrid vehicles for the Force on the next purchase?

Purchasing one expensive 4WD would be approximately equivalent to purchasing five Hybrid vehicles.

Taking that into consideration, should the relevant authorities opt for the latter, we would have an “all time high” Police presence or visibility on the roads.

Who knows, we could even have one Police vehicle per street, especially in the major urban centres. Au kaya ga. (I’m just saying)

Those Hybrid “purchases” would definitely not only lead to a drastic reduction in both the crime rate and operating expenditure but also keep in check all those “recklessly-lousy-inconsiderate” drivers.

Give it a thought.

Reddy’s call

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

Hats off to our Minister for Education, Mahendra Reddy, in his call for all Fijian schools to call off their participation in a competition, immediately.

Realistically this is a commercial exploitation of our school kids which directly puts a strain on their struggling parent’s budget with their spending priorities plus it will cause undue stress and an added burden to the responsibilities our teachers are already tasked with.

It is disrespectful and a blatant disregard to the privacy of these students and their parents.

What needs to be asked is whether the company involved had collaborated with the Ministry of Education from the beginning of this programme to seek its approval or not?

Many of my friends have resorted to buying other chicken brands with effect of January 2016 simply because we think the competition is wrong.

The live Jungly Murgi in the local market is also a thriving business is another option and it tastes delicious too.

Vinaka Mr Reddy for putting a stop to this commercial nonsense in its guise.

There will certainly be many happy parents and certainly a positive move on our Minister for Education in protecting our Fijian school system.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Crest and social responsibility

Rakesh Chandra, Nasinu

Thanks a lot to the Honorable Minister for Education and his staff for putting a stop to Crest Chicken’s ‘Cool Stuff for Schools’ promotion.

The claim that Crest Chicken is fulfilling its corporate social responsibility (CSR) through the promotion is very hollow.

The ministry should also ensure that no approvals for such promotions are ever granted in the future. The corporate sector should understand that our children are not marketing tools for them.

Let’s be proactive in the future against such gimmicks.

Team Rio

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

It surprised me how quickly Jarryd Hayne had become the face of the Vodafone Fijian 7s squad.

He has been dominating the front and back pages of the newspapers recently. Everything seemed to be about Jarryd Hayne’s selection instead of the World Rugby Seven Series champions.

While I am a fan of the Hayne plane, I feel the ‘Road to Gold” campaign is not at all about Hayne, it’s about our team –preparing to launch Fiji’s first realistic attempt towards winning an Olympic gold medal. The transition to 7s proved to be a hill too steep to climb for the code-hopping Hayne who has also had a stint with NFL and NRL.

Meanwhile, it’s sad to learn about the hospitalisation of Pio Tuwai. Let’s hope and pray that he recovers and makes the cut. Counting down to the team announcement on Saturday, I would love to see the following named in the 13-member squad.

Forwards: Nakarawa, Nayacalevu, Kunatani, Veremalua, Domolailai and Pio Tuwai (Viliame Mata)

Backs: Osea, Tuisova, Rawaca, Ravouvou, Nasilasila, and Seremaia Tuwai.

Jarryd Hayne

Amenatave Yaconisau, Suva

I was truly touched by the emotions and goodwill expressed for Jarryd Hayne from Fijian rugby fans (Viti FM 12-2pm 12/7)

It just shows the emotions of Fijian fans are always with the underdogs no matter what. That’s endurance and fortitude. His show of appreciation of Ben Ryan’s decision is really a reflection of true humility to differ without resentment. There will be more to follow him soon.  I don’t envy Ben for doing the job, to tell rugby greats they don’t fit his bill.

My good wishes to Hayne and I am sure he has been directed for better things. He’ll be sorely missed in the camp.

Good luck, champ! Well remember you in Rio.

All heroes

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

Jarryd Hayne and all our Vodafone Fijian 7s stars that will be dropped by coach Ben Ryan when the final 13 players are named should not lose hope, for you are all heroes in our hearts.

You all deserve a standing ovation for all your sacrifices in the grueling training you went through, but missed out as Ben Ryan chose the 13 players, he knows will fit in well with his game plan for the Rio Olympic gold.

This week, we will know who the final 13 Vodafone Fiji Sevens team will be and we all hope and pray that all the hard work will create history for Fiji in winning its first Olympic games medal ever!

To all the members of the Vodafone Fijian 7s squad, keep your group photos framed as a souvenir because if the final 12 creates history, you should be remembered in the years to come as part of the squad who went through hell but did not make the final team.

To Jarryd Hayne and all the boys who did not make the final cut, Fijians thank you for your sacrifices and efforts and as mentioned above, you are all heroes in our hearts.

May God bless you and the final Vodafone Fiji 7s team.

Go Fiji, go!

Nadi Hospital

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Allow me to give due credit, rather belatedly, to the hard working doctors and nurses at the Nadi Hospital.

Additionally, to highlight in these columns, some deficiencies, I personally observed.

In early February this year I suffered an acute exacerbated attack of asthma, a dreaded illness. Upon my arrival at the A&E Department I was attended to immediately and with a greater degree of professionalism. I am forever thankful I was stabilised more than an hour later.

I was, however, horrified to be told I couldn’t be admitted to the Paying Ward because this section of the Hospital had already been “closed” some 18-months, at that point in time. There was simply no choice for me but to go the Men’s Medical Ward. There are five cubicles here, 21 beds, one shower with no ventilation, three toilets out of which two were ventilated.

Understandably, patients come from all walks of life. Some have the poorest standards of hygiene and cleanliness. I “died” a million times having to use these facilities. Indeed, I was humbled and humiliated.

For the record, I was fortunate enough to be accommodated in the hospital’s Paying Ward back in September 2008. This section was found to be badly run down and in greatest need of repair and maintenance.

Sadly, eight years down the line the solar hot water systems did not work. Some leaking taps were not repaired. Some power points did not have electricity supply. Broken glass panes to several doors were not repaired four years following aftermath Nature’s wrath in 2012.

Nadi is poised to become Fiji’s next city come 2017. My attempts to raise these deficiencies to the Minister of Health met with lukewarm responses following Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston and the massive floods that followed later.

I left several messages to this effect.

For, and on before all citizens of Nadi I raise this issue. I fear for all our visitors and foreigners who may need urgent medical attention and admission to the Paying Ward if repairs here are still not carried out. Why?

May I again offer my belated sincere thanks and appreciation to all the hardworking doctors and nurses for the professionally sterling efforts that go un-noticed without a word of thanks. Their work is at times done under trying circumstances. Nadi Hospital is at most hopelessly under-staffed.

I noted on one October 2015 day, three doctors attended to no less then 537 out-patients. Doctors, at times, do not have time for morning tea or afternoon tea, let alone decent lunch break. Is there a major problem with the hospital’s administration?

There is definite room for improvement. Has the Board of Visitors become non-existent? Answers, in good faith, please as in my retirement years, some of us “true kai Nadi” deserve some comfort in our latter years in life before we are called by our Heavenly Father from our Earthly pilgrimage.

Police, bus fare

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

A Police officer has always been waived in by the bus drivers as they enter and there is nothing wrong with that, but there are drivers who demand fares which the officers are always ready to pay.

The drivers also feel comfortable with a Police Officer in uniform in the bus. Even the passengers feel the same with the presence of a Police Officer on board. For anyone to complain about this issue I find it very irrelevant because the more the Police officers are visible the better it would be for the public.

Sexual offences

Neelz Singh, Lami

What a disgraceful and non-respected headlines once we hear or read about. Cases of rape, sexual violence and abuse are skyrocketing. Perpetrators encounter sexual offence on multiple grounds and taking advantages of this situation of vulnerable underage girls, women employees, and children. Company boss taking advantage of their employees, and now our woman and children are not even safe in public buses.

Victims, who are abused or sexually assaulted, molested, or raped, are minors. What’s wrong with our society?

What can be the cause of sexually active perpetrators? What measures can be taken? How can this matter be addressed? Any suggestion readers?

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Nadi Hospital pharmacy

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

This contribution is directed to the Ministry of Health “Top Guns” for and on behalf of all in Nadi who suffer from:

(a) High Blood Pressure

(b) Cholesterol

(c) Asthma

For at least the past four weeks the much-needed drugs have not been available from the Pharmacy in Nadi Hospital.

I highlight this acute shortage especially for the poor who struggle to purchase these from pharmacies downtown.

Only the first six months of the year have gone by in a “flash”. Where to?

Did the bulk procurement of these go hopelessly wrong or was there a mass miscalculation?

When will these “necessities for life” become available?

The drugs I make reference to, amongst others, include Nifedipine 20mg; Simvastatin 20mg and Salbutamol Puffers (SalbuAir).

Will someone in authority care to take the urgent initiative to clear the air for these sufferers, please?

Missing number plates

Rajesh Lal, Labasa

Can the Land Transport Authority come out clean as to why it is silent on the issue of vehicles running on our roads without their number plates affixed? Today it has become a fashion to some vehicle owners to remove their number plates and drive along because the authorities concerned are sleeping on the job.

Maybe LTA is waiting for a hit and run case and then try to locate the vehicle, which would be a waste of time.

There are dozens of old and new vehicles running on our roads everyday without their number plates affixed, which is a big risk to our road users. Where are the road safety people?

Climate Change

Alisi W Daurewa, Suva

I looked this week and noted what appeared to be complementary initiatives of the Government and communities on climate change.

The first which the Attorney-General and Minister for Economic Affairs must  be congratulated on is Government’s intention to spend $200,000 for the establishment cost of a secretariat in the hope of harnessing funds from donors for climate change.

I am hopeful however that consideration is given to harmonising some existing legislation that currently contradicts the effort of communities to increase their resilience to climate change.

I refer in particular to a recent spate of discussions with some customary owners of iqoliqoli from all four administrative divisions (central, eastern, northern and western).  They are anxious as a consequence of the impact of certain legislation which impinge on their right to free access and use of their age-old iqoliqoli which they must now share unconditionally with surfers and super yachts.  Their anxiety arises from their allegation that the Government did not consult them on a matter that had cultural and economic implications on their livelihood.

They support a multi-stakeholder approach to tourism development.

To give them credit, they know what they are talking about for they speak with much experience.  Their stories have been told to international communities over the years.

They recently received international recognition through FLMMA (Fiji Locally Marine Protected Areas) for their method of traditional management practices to contribute to global efforts to conserve our planet. Congratulations FLMMA!

This acclamation however is one of several which probably began in 2003, when the collective effort of communities, civil society organisations and the government was recognised by the United Nations for their contribution to sustainable development.

The originality of their approach to mitigation through networking attracted curiosity and invited global funding.

Since then, the number of marine protected areas have increased and by 2014, there were 466 declared tabu or ‘no take’ or marine protected areas (FLMMA, F/T, 11/12/14).

As a bonus to the outcome of this work, scientific research (see Bowden-Kerby et al, 2009, 2011) found that marine protected areas strengthen coral reef resilience to climate change!

The question that now arises is; shouldn’t the Government be concerned that its effort in attracting global funding for climate change might be impeded by legislations that appear to be disabling community effort from strengthening resilience to climate change? While saying this, I also sympathise with the Attorney General and Minister for Economic Affairs comment when he described accessing global climate change funds as a bureaucratic nightmare.

Because in the final analysis, the Government might find that marine protected areas were institutionalised through the very generous funding of global donors over several years.

Reality

Floyd Robinson, Masinu

As a nation, this weekend we embrace a reality – both joyful and painful.

The Vodafone Fijian 7s coach, Ben Ryan, will name the team to the Rio Olympics. With so many talented players in the squad he will have to make some very hard calls between dropping and selecting players.

Some will be hurt not to make the final team while others will be glad to have made the team.

As a nation we feel for those who will be dropped and support those who make the final cut. As a nation we wish them the very best and will stand by whatever decisions are made.

At the end of the day, reality is that we must appreciate the efforts of those who make the final team as well as those who did not.

Commercial exploitation

Dr Sushil Sharma, Lautoka

Commercial exploitation perpetrated to our Fijian society, by a major reputable commercial international firm dealing with the rearing, slaughter and sale of a particular brand of chicken in Fiji– by using our school children to collect coupons from their dressed chicken packaging and then submitting them to their schools – has been an outright abuse.

By the data collected from all schools for the past few years, the education department would be able to state categorically the number of chicken consumed by Fijians through this promotion. We would also thus be able to ascertain the profit to benefit ratio, which will show the meagre benefits to schools.

Other meat products like pork, beef, lamb, fish are not only affected, but competing chicken producing companies – who have invested millions of dollars in their hatchery, rearing, slaughter and processing plants – find themselves on the receiving end.

It is painful to note that our Fijian Commerce Commission, as usual, has once again been found sleeping at the wheels.

I often wonder if our compliance people including our politicians – so eager to be the “tiger in parliament” – also live on the same planet as us, or they have become so insignificant as a people, that they do not notice these types of things in the same community that we live in. I would have thought that they would lead the way.

Goodman Fielder International general manager Chris Zaayman, instead of apologising to all Fijians, all he had to say was that “he was very disappointed that it (his company) would no longer be able to deliver its ‘Crest Cool Stuff for Schools’ programme to over 200 schools throughout Fiji”.

Warm hearted thanks to Mahendra Reddy, our Education Minister, to muster enough courage to put an end to it.

Loans

Sukha Singh, Labasa

A friend told me a State loan is different from a personal loan and that Fiji has a potential to loan much more than what we have borrowed now.

But one thing I have noticed is the more the country borrows the more taxes are charged. One easy way out of paying these loans is to ask Donald Trump to adopt this country.

Ryan’s pick

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Only coach Ben Ryan knows who will be the best to represent Fiji in 7s at the Rio Olympic Games.

Whoever he selects I believe will shine at the Games. After two years of success in the World Sevens Series and with very dedicated and talented players being screened and well versed with his requirements there is no doubt at all his choice will be final. We can only show our support by wishing Ben all the best and to return home with the gold medal.

Ben’s most difficult task now is facing the players who will be dropped from the selection and is probably putting words that would be said to them. There would be surprises and there would be negative comments against the team that Fiji is all waiting for to be named tomorrow.

We should support Ben all the way and the boys who have been selected. All we can do is just pray and support in whatever way we can. Go Fiji, go.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

7s credit

Timoci Gaunavinaka, Nausori

With our men’s 7s team to Rio announced today an arm chair of critics ponder on Ben Ryan’s choice.

There has never been a time in our 7s rugby history where there has been such a very thin line between those who are chosen and those who did not make the cut. Even Ben Ryan admitted having sleepless nights in trying to make that painful decision.

The boys who failed to make the final cut gave it their all. We all know that they are much better players than many of those going to Rio from other countries and it is just unfortunate that they choose to represent Fiji.

Some sustain injuries and some got admitted to hospital. They put their body on the line in five gruelling weeks to push and bring out the best in those who made it. That is no small task and they must not be forgotten. After all, when the dust settles in Rio on August 13th and our contracted overseas players return to Europe, it is these same players the nation will turn to for the 2016 / 2017 IRB Sevens series.

Like true Fijians they will throw full support behind those chosen as Jarred Hayne has proven and will not make unnecessary controversy for a media hey-day like it happened with the All Blacks 7s team announcement.

My humble suggestion to FRU and to Government, please, if the men’s 7s team to Rio do win a medal and got handsomely compensated for their achievement, set aside a couple of thousands of dollars as a goodwill compensation for the few players who missed Rio from the 24-member training squad for their part behind the scene that makes us all proud.

That will also relay a clear message to our elite sports people that will help sustain a competitive and progressive sporting environment: “You may be left out and did not make the cut, but your contribution is not forgotten and we do care.”

Govt fleet services

Arien Vikash Kumar, Nadi

Questions have been raised to the finance ministry in the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting in regards to the service centres where the repair and maintenance of government – owned vehicles can take place.

Instead of having Government Service Centres or accepting  Private Companies with the lowest quotation do the repair and maintenance of state-owned vehicles, how about  using the “Technical Colleges” as government service centres.

Perhaps all the Technical Colleges in Fiji have Automotive and Engineering Departments and using the services of this Department would have a number of advantages.

Getting more trained and qualified automotive engineers/teachers and equipping the automotive and engineering department with modern tools and machinery will surely lift the standards of the Technical Colleges in Fiji, which can further open doors to the government for repair and maintenance of  state – owned vehicles at a very reasonable cost.

It will be a win – win situation for both the Government and the Technical Colleges.

Finance Ministry will save a lot and on the other hand the Technical Colleges would experience sudden rise in the enrolment list as more students will be willing to enrol and learn with modern tools and machinery as well as with qualified engineers and teachers. The Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS) applications will also increase and so forth.

It may take time and money for the Technical Colleges to raise its standards and offer full services for the repair and maintenance of state-owned vehicles but in the meantime they could just start with the normal servicing(oil and filter changing) of the government-owned vehicles.

Just a suggestion though.

New arms

Amenatave Yaconisau, Suva

Your headline titled ‘Russian Arms for Golan peacekeeping’ (FS 14/7) speaks of the need to modernise armoury for our peacekeepers in International peacekeeping.

There is little question that we need to keep our peacekeepers safer and one of the ways is to improve their technology including weapons.

Defence and internal policing should be a priority for our security along with improved working conditions.

Generally we should increase military and police spending with purchase of armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, combat aircraft, helicopters and warships.

I hope our foreign policy makers will respond accordingly and we thank the Russian armoury and technical assistance.

I hope they will provide training too. We should not be afraid to interact with citadels of other ideologies and cross fertilise with them.

Enforcing policies

Sachida Rao, Nausori

Years ago the regulation and policy on jaywalking and recommended attire for public service vehicle (PSV) drivers were implemented and clearly spelled out by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

That was a fine step towards improving the road manners.

The question is, were the executed policies monitored along?  If so, how many bookings were done over a given period of time?

The manner in which the public is jaywalking and the taxi drivers attire themselves simply shows either the policy enforcers are outnumbered or the jaywalkers are fearless. But why?

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Nakched: Don’t rest until something is done

Our latest letter writer of the week walks, talks and acts on safety.

Satish Nakched believes that we should practice being proactive as opposed to being reactive. Most of his letters have been written on safety and preventative measures.

“I’m very much into safety,” he said.

And rightly so, explained the Ovalau man with an Occupation, Health and Safety background.

“Once you get hurt, once your leg is damaged, once your toe is cut off, you lose some mobility, your life becomes a wreck,” he said.

There are so many things that could be hazardous but customers, employees and employers take them for granted, he said.

“When you take a walkabout there could be something sticking out, there could be a switch that has fallen or even an exposed wire.”

People see it but it is only when something happens they react.

“We are very much into a reactive mode. We need to change our mindset and become proactive.”

His winning letter, ‘Carton doormats’ talks deeply about the safety aspect in the supermarket.

Carton doormats are a normal sight in supermarkets and retail shops, especially during the rainy season.

Not only is it economical but as Mr Nakched said: “This keeps the dirt, water and other form of pollutant from spreading to other parts of the business.”

But the problem arises when the carton isn’t wet or eventually dries up.

“When this occurs the grip disappears and the carton becomes very slippery and this can lead to a person falling.”

Most recently, he says, his letters have been inspired by what our national 7s coach Ben Ryan once said on twitter, which eventually became viral.

“We have robust laws but it’s not enforced. Anything that I see, I need to flag it. Remember what the 7s coach Ben Ryan said: ‘The standard you walk past is the standard you become’.

“If you see something that is not right, you need to flag it to the authorities for improvement. Once you do that, you need to keep following up.”

The quote was also used by Australian Army Lieutenant General David Morrison in 2013 which originally said: ‘The standard you walk past, is the standard you accept’.

Feedback:  ranobab@fijisun.com.fj

Diabetes in Fiji

Dewan Chand, Suva

According to media reports the Minister for Health, Jone Usamate, has reacted with a sense of shock after learning that Fiji is ranked second by the World Life Expectancy Diabetes report.

The number of deaths and limb amputations per year will shock any sane person. The minister has launched a nationwide appeal to Fijians to change their life styles. Diabetes is branded as a life-style disease. It is the greatest killer.

The rapid urbanisation and the rural-urban drift have caused major dislocations in the traditional way of life and traditional eating habits. Fijians now consume more processed food with high salt and sugar contents which result in obesity and high blood pressure. Processed junk foods also use large quantities of preservatives which have cancer causing chemicals. Many imported lollies have chemically laced colourings to attract children who become innocent victims. Even children have diabetes. What a sad state of affairs!

Radio stations keep blaring advertisements throughout the day to brainwash consumers, particularly children, about the sheer pleasure of enjoying sweetened drinks and sugary biscuits. The TV screen keeps flashing uncensored, false and misleading advertisements in our homes. Children take this as gospel truths and imbibe them in their life-styles. What hypocrisy and what nonsense is being paddled in the name of advertisements. Steps must be taken to change advertising laws. Companies must be held responsible for what they advertise. At the moment there seems to be none.

I am of the opinion that multinational companies must not be allowed to sponsor sporting events. In the name of sports we are training our children to drink nothing what has been advertised. This is grossly unfair to our children. Sports personalities have been used to push these products in the market. What a shame! Even the health booklets say drink responsibly. What a farce, who can drink responsibly? None!  Alcohol is Satan’s tea.

The world over public hospitals do not allow coke advertisements. However, a restaurant at one of our hospitals has a soft drink advertisement staring at the customers. Can someone please do something to remove the advertisements from the hospital?

The Ministry of Health is doing much to promote awareness about diabetes through its education programmes. Much more needs to be done before we can change the mindset of our people.

A new diabetes centre should be built with ultra-modern facilities and well trained staff to arrest the spread of diabetes.

Reason for 87 coup

Sukha Singh, Labasa

Could Mr Sitiveni Rabuka confirm the reason for the 1987 coup that he thought only the Alliance party was capable of ruling Fiji?

He said on the ‘Close Up’ TV programme that he had this thought from 1977 when the National Federation Party won the election.

Can he also confirm that if the NFP had formed Government in 1977 would the first coup have been in 1977?

TSLB Reform

Rakesh Chandra, Nasinu

Congratulations to Mr Bobby Maharaj for being appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer for the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Board (TSLB).

The TSLB is in need of major reforms as there are many service related issues plaguing this institution. Mr. Maharaj’s vast experience and diverse qualifications in commerce and law puts him in good stride to bring about the required changes. There is a glimmer of hope amongst the clients of TSLB especially the students that the days of suffering may be coming to an end.

Coldest week

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

Was this week the coldest week of the year to date?

The nights and early morning have seen temperatures drop to levels which have forced individuals to stay indoors, resort to wearing jackets, jumpers and seeking the comfort of blankets. All in all, a cold week and perhaps more cold days to come. After all, it does get exciting after dark.

Nice attacks

Amenatave Yaconisau, Suva

If French authorities continue to show inability to protect people from terrorist then it’s a big risk to leaders if security services cannot gauge little criminals who overnight graduate into mass murderers.

Certainly we are all agitated  by the mad terrorist who plowed  into innocent crowd in Nice, France,  killing at least 84 people and the death count still continues as I write this letter.  It’s such a contradiction when all these people were celebrating Bastille Day and the freedom of French people when the gruesome act took place.

There is no comfort in telling people of counter-terrorist measures when they don’t feel safe in their own country. Such unprovoked violence is hard to pardon and extend mercy, only God can.  I also feel sorry for his country of origin and his innocent family who don’t know his heinous thoughts.

The French culture is filled with flames of revolution and revolt and if you put them in harm’s way by creating uncertainty and fear they’ll fight back as in the mighty French Resistance against the Nazis in WWII.

Definitely these are forces that threaten French values and indeed European love of peace need to be controlled. The Europeans need to unite against this scourge or it will be like ‘Count Dracula’ wanting blood from everyone. You need to drive in the stakes now before it fully wakes up.

Issuance of  business licences especially where a great number of people gather like airports, stadium and restaurants need to have an armed security component.  The next target for these worms could be Rio. Let’s prepare.

Liberty, freedom and fraternity.  Vive Le France.

Driving in Fiji

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

With the high number of vehicles on our roads and drivers receiving licences each day, not forgetting the better road conditions, we’re bound to have an accident somehow.

Our main enemy on the roads is the other drivers; we have no idea what they would do next. Most accidents occur is because of the fault of drivers who do the wrong thing at the right time or the right thing at the wrong time. And when accidents occur they seem to be the one talking the most.

All drivers when on the roads should have all their senses in full operation; being careful and alert at all times. On our roads now we have drivers of all ages, both genders, and those without a valid driver’s licence.

So far we have record 27 road fatalities compared to 34 for the same period last year, but the yearly record seems to rise dramatically each year.

Truth and lies 

Lawrence Narayan, Suva

Many Christians assume because their spiritual leaders went to Bible Colleges, have degrees in theology and are ordained ministers, they are delivering the truth but it is becoming very obvious many are not.

In the early part of my Christian journey about 30 years ago, I also fell for many of the lies being taught today. However, as I began to question what I was hearing from my spiritual leaders and poured myself into the scriptures, I became painfully aware that I was being deceived and then I began to question them on those issues to which they would not give reasonably good and logical answer. A very interesting Christian article describes the similarity between poison, lies and false teachers.

It stated, just as in the movies, in order to poison someone, the killer would not give the victim poison straight out, that would be too obvious and easily detected by the investigating authorities.

Instead, the killer would introduce a bit of the poison with a good tasting drink, that way it went undetected by the victim and was untraceable.

In the same way, lies are introduced into the church to introduce false teachings straight out into the message would be too obvious. The false teacher would instead gradually over a period of time, mix a bit of the lies together with the truth of God’s words to make it sound true.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

From zero to hero

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

Hey! Who said it was impossible? Both our women and Men’s 13 respective 7’s rugby teams have all proved a point to show what dedication, perseverance, sacrifice, sweat, blood and tears will reap. They have all come from zero to hero.

They are now on record for being part of the country’s biggest Olympic contingent.

This is a very proud moment for their families and friends and is an inspiration to our young generation to take it to another level. They have set the bar and it is there for the taking.

They have all proved a point in qualifying for the Olympics together with other sports that will be representing Fiji and in that alone it is an awesome achievement to be in, let alone the expectation of winning a medal.

They share similar stories through their different family backgrounds.

This is a make or break to the big time for them as the Olympics would expose their raw talents to the world and potential employers to see.

They are the best Ben Ryan, Chris Cracknell and Iliesa Tanivula have got in the hope that they will proudly bring back an Olympic medal.

The country will be watching with great interest. We must all support them. They need our prayers and cheers. Medal or no medal they are our best bet.

Our Government, Fiji Airways, Tourism Fiji, Investment Fiji, Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association together with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Trade will utilise and capture the opportunity to showcase and maximise on marketing our country to the outside world with the millions of viewers who will be glued to their TV 24/7 for the duration of the Rio Olympics.

It is a dream come true for every athlete to win a gold medal for their country in the world’s largest sporting event on record irrespective of the sport they represent.

I’d like to wish the 2016 Rio Olympic Team Fiji every success.

Go get it! You are ‘stronger than Winston’ and resilient. Show the world the stuff what we are made of.

I am certainly proud to be a Fijian. But it would have been great to witness our new flag and national identity flying amongst others at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Thank you Nadi Hospital

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

One October day in 2015 at the Nadi Hospital, three doctors attended to 537 patients at the General Out Patients Department (GOPD).

Our hard working doctors, on that particular day, were indeed grossly overworked.

Needless to say the doctors, nurses and pharmaceutical staff were stretched well beyond their human limitations in the course of service delivery. There was no time for morning or afternoon tea, let alone lunch.

This hardworking group of dedicated health care givers deserve some thanks and appreciation from the general public at large. Thank you sincerely for all your continued hard work. The Minister for Health and his team needs to address such work overload, please.

God knows

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

Working as a blueberry picker on different farms in the past six weeks has given me a lot of time to think about issues or questions that pop up in my mind, including spiritual matters.

One thought that I have already mentioned in a previous letter is the power of the dollar or money in our lives.

Out here, it is just unbelievable. Our transport picks up the Punjabi workers and they all have beautiful, posh-looking houses with a couple of cars parked at their homes.

I have come to the conclusion that these citizens worship money and have worked hard all their lives and look forward to picking blueberry every year.

The long hours spent in the blueberry farm plus the two hours travel in the morning and evening, has made me ask myself the same question “Why am I doing this?”

For me, it is getting to know the contractor so that I could line up work for Fijians who come out this way and to get fit and lose weight and getting paid for it.

Among our group are some Christians and while some of them take a day off on Sunday to attend church, a number of them put money first and work seven days a week.

This reminds me of some years ago in Tumbarrumba, New South Wales, Australia, where two of my relatives lived. That year, they were picking apples with a vakatawa (catechist) visiting Australia from Vanua Levu.

On a Friday afternoon, my two relatives Kula and Lekima explained to the vakatawa that they were Seventh-day Adventists and would not be working on Saturday but will pick apples on Sunday.

The vakatawa replied that he will work on Saturday, but will rest on Sunday.

On Sunday morning, Kula and Lekima got a big surprise when they got to the farm, the Vakatawa was already in the swing, picking apples.

“Hey vakatawa, today is Sunday, what happened?”

The vakatawa could only point to heaven and blurt say: “Sa ‘ila tiko o Ea!”(God knows or understands)

Apparently, the vakatawa loaned some money for his airfare and was trying to use all the opportunities available to make as much money before his visa expired.

Power buries those who wield it

Samuela Kailawadoko, Nadi

The alleged act of torture and brutality committed by the security force that has gone viral raises how thin a line they tread between potency and power, between power and force. They must choose carefully the kinds of power they opt to exercise.

Power buries those who wield it. The problem is that power of force wielded, ruthlessly employed, carelessly administered often masks as virtue, often wantonly destroys in its determination to do good.

The scope of the law is to facilitate life. They are promulgated so that no one becomes victims of injustice and oppression; the laws control and moderate human instincts.

In interpreting the law, precedence should be given to human necessity rather than to rigid and literal application of the law.

Amnesty International is correct when it says it is not enough for Police to investigate.

Let not a few potatoes spoil the soup

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

When the image of Police Force is tarnished and is highlighted in the media or social media, everyone seems to want to get to the bottom of it and hope that the public servant involved is dealt accordingly or even worse.

The feelings against a particular cop seem to tarnish the whole of the Police Force. Or in cases, a member of public was dealt with by a particular Police officer and was not to the expectation would also show some sort of methods of revenge in any way when a  cop is at fault.

For instance, the recent case in Taveuni where a man was jailed for bribing a Police officer, the accused may defiantly try and get back at the force in any form when completing his prison term.

The recent pictures on the social media, the marijuana farmers allegedly tortured during their arrest and of the man with the burnt back , these are shown to raise tension between the people and the Police Force.

Despite the good work they have done in other cases we seem to forget that at anytime we will need help.

And when requiring the help of the Police they will always be there.

The recent Police shooting in Dallas made millions of people especially in America change their attitude from being enemies to being supportive. The officers had left behind their young families and friends in the line of duty.

As the Commissioner of Police has indicated, officers involved in wrongdoing will be dealt with the law accordingly.

Let’s leave it to that and move forward in supporting the work that they are carrying on a daily basis.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Congratulations  Health Minister

Dewan Chand, Namadi Heights

I write to warmly congratulate the Minister for Health, Jone Usamate for his no nonsense attitude towards the provision of health services at our hospitals and health centers.

He is simply not prepared to accept sub-standard performance from the medical staff and the hospital administrators.

It is for this reason he has decided to visit hospitals and health centres and see in person the problems which exist there.

This should help to eradicate a number of problems which exist because of sheer lackadaisical (lacking enthusiasm and determination) attitude and negligence of administrators.

In April this year, my daughter was accidently burnt and I took her to Nuffield Clinic, Tamavua, which is not designed to cater for severe burns.

Hence she was transferred to Colonial War Memorial Hospital. For two days she spent time in the Namosi-Tailevu Ward. I was horrified to see the condition of the ward.

The women’s toilet was filthy and had no lights. The hand basin near the bed displayed a coloured chart out-lining six steps to washing hands.

Alas, there was no soap, no hand towel and the hand basin looked very ancient.

A dilapidated liquid soap dispenser had no soap, a sad state of affairs for the largest hospital in our country.

She was eventually transferred to the Burns Unit, an ultra modern addition to the hospital. Here the facilities are excellent and the staff very efficient and courteous, with a few exceptions.

The burns patients are kept far apart to prevent infection and the visiting hours were strictly adhered to.

However, the presence of flies was an annoying factor. Maybe fly-catchers should be installed.

The waiting room for relatives outside the operation theatres is a very uncomfortable place. Poor cross ventilation and lack of fan and proper toilet facilities for men is traumatic.

Men were forced to use the women’s toilets, which too was not in a good condition. Out of three only one was functional.

This is simply an unacceptable condition.

For some odd reason, the hospital administration switches off exterior lights, soon after the visiting hours, covering the car park.

One night after visiting my daughter I was going towards my car in the dark and had a fall in the Ambulance Bay because there was no ramp to the footpath.

Lucky for me at the age of 72, I did not break any bones. However, I had to undergo an x-ray examination because of the bruises and muscular pains which persisted for weeks.

In my view, the exterior lights should be left on for safety and security reasons.

Visitors to the hospital can easily be robbed in the dark.

During heavy rains the New Wing leaks in a number of places, the most significant one being the one right in front of the emergency reception desk.

A huge plastic basin sits there on a rainy day. I am sure this can be easily fixed.

I appeal to all associated with our hospitals and health centres to take pride in their work and make it welcoming and comfortable for all those who use its services.

Corporate charity

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Will Digicel Fiji, as major sponsors of the 2016 Nadi Bula Festival, together with officials of the festivals finance committee, make a firm undertaking to ensure that adequate measures are duly undertaken to ensure the full restoration of the Nadi Hospital’s paying ward to its “former glory” since its inception?

For all Nadi citizens and visitors alike, who will require such life-saving services, please!

For many of us, the standard of service extended in the medical and surgical wards, are in short “grossly inadequate” in this modern day, the 21st Century.

As the Jet Set town prepares itself for the status of “City” accreditation come 2017, one shower facility to 21 patients is not acceptable.

I would hate to see our honorable and hardworking Prime Minister; the Attorney-General; the Minister for Health taken ill while on tour of duty in our very congested town.

Besides, the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was in a very sorry state of affairs when I last saw it several weeks ago. I need not go into any detail.

My comments are made in absolute good faith in the fervent hope that health care service delivery is restored to acceptable levels, for the betterment of all concerned.

Sadly, some infrastructure, for reasons unknown, have been allowed to “shamefully fall apart” and much-needed adequate funding become a scarcity to maintain desired levels of the hospital’s ongoing maintenance programmes.

Congratulation heroes

Herleen Emily Kumar, Nadi

It was indeed a historic moment for Fijian rugby as our honourable Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama announced the final 13-member squad to Rio.

As the nation awaited to know who were selected, it became an emotional one for many who were glued to the television.

However, for those who could not make it, you are still in our hearts and are still our Fijian sevens heroes. We wish coach Ben Ryan and his team the very best in Rio and we hope you make Fiji proud. A tiny nation with a #levu heart (big heart).

Vinaka Rabuka

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

From the perspective of a QVS old boy (OB), it touches the heart to read that OB Sitiveni Rabuka, the former prime minister and the new SODELPA party leader has been financially supporting both the QVS Under-18 team and the QVSOB rugby team (FS15/7).

To read that the Queen Victoria School Under-18 side beat defending Deans Trophy champions Ratu Kadavulevu School 19-18 on Saturday to be crowned the Eastern Zone champs (FS 17/7), kind of gives the Victorian family high hopes of winning the Deans Trophy this year.

Vinaka Rabuka, parents and guardians and OBs for supporting current students and we all hope that all QVS teams qualify to play in quarterfinals with the Deans Trophy taking a stroll down from Lodoni to Matavatucou this year.

Free milk

Kirti Patel, Lautoka

I refer to the letter (FT16/07) on free milk and wish to let this letter writer know that it is a parent’s right to raise concerns should they feel difficulty in purchasing the same kind of milk that is given to them in school.

Some children can be very demanding and they simply would not settle for anything else.

Depending on the different types of scenarios, different approach and methods are being used to curb this kind of issues by parents.

There are many children who have proper breakfast in the morning thus, the free milk would not be digested well in the time not suitable for their intake.

I believe every household should be able to afford milk and I know there are many who can. We’ve got free education already. To some extent, I agree that it is not fair for other children who are probably having a good intake of milk in school but coming from that particular parent to stop it in schools is a bit out of line.

Maybe, this particular parent could seek the ministry’s help to curb their issue.

They can be supplied with that milk at their home as well.

Well if the ministry can help in schools, they can help in this kind of situation as well after studying the whole scenario of that family.

While on that, there are many parents who have raised concerns on things like wrist bands being sold in schools especially in primary schools and little children getting tempted to buy this. They end up using their money on such kinds of things and the parents only come to know when they meet their kids.

This practice is normally done during certain types of programmes being organised in schools. We all know that no sort of fundraising is allowed in schools.

Well the bottom line is where the finance is concerned. One way or another, the eyebrow is raised. Since the ministry has taken initiative for the free milk, they will surely find ways to help settle this mater as well. Let’s hope for the best.

Litter bugs

Wise Muavono, Lautoka

I have written and spoken tirelessly of the problem of littering in Lautoka and the way in which we have cultured ourselves to accept it as a way of life, even when it threatens our very existence. I often ask myself why do they do it! Is it because they are lazy and have no civic pride? Sa rui levu na qaciqacia (Enough with the showoff).

Million dollar players

Sukha Singh,  Labasa

I got to thank Osea Kolinisau for retaining his captain’s position. I also thank him for all the personal sacrifices like ditching his university studies and keep playing for Fiji without worrying about what he will do when he has finished from sevens. I’d also like to thank Ben Ryan and everyone who is in this squad. But please remember it is a game of sevens and anything can happen!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Rio preparation

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

I was sad to learn that Kolinio Sivoki and Sakaraia Naisua have been dropped from the national football squad due to disciplinary reasons.

The duo are alleged to have broken camp and had gone on a drinking spree.

It’s really disturbing to see this happening but this has been the norm for Fiji Soccer for some time – players breaking camp, drinking spree, being dropped, given another chance and the list goes on.

My understanding is the players were attending a workshop in the Capital City but the question is who was in charge of the boys, were they supervised and where were all the officials when these boys supposedly sneaked out of the camp.

These behaviours are happening when the team is getting ready to depart for Rio just goes on to show the amount of rot there is within Fiji Football.

My advice to Fiji FA hierarchy is to take a leaf out of Ben Ryan’s book.

We are already hearing about the poor fitness level of the boys – my question again goes to the Fiji FA officials, what were you doing when Ben Ryan and our 7’s gladiators were training at the Sigatoka sand dunes?

No wonder Fiji is ranked 187th in the world while our Sevens team is favourite for gold.

Rio count down

Timoci Gaunavinaka, Nausori

Since our first participation in the Olympic Games, never have we been graded as number one in any sport until this year. Our back to back victories in the IRB sevens rugby world series has not only put us at the pinnacle of world ranking, but also as the bulls-eye of other teams’ target.

Sir Gordon Tiejen, Neil Powel, Mike Friday, Santiago Gomez Cora and Simon Amor to name a few are now all working and calculating various game plans to counter our boys. But we have our master tactician in Ben Ryan, the lion.

While those teams played in various low ranking tournaments to prepare their players, Ben had the advantage of three equally ranked teams playing against each other as players fought for their seat on the plane to Rio.

While those teams trained in sophisticated gymnasiums with modern technology, our players trained at the Sigatoka sand dunes, a national heritage site that holds remains of settlements built by our early ancestors some three thousand years ago.

While those players represent developed countries from continental Europe, the Americas, Africa, Oceania and Asia with multi-million dollar budgets, our players represent a small developing nation that may appear like a tiny dot in the ocean but whose people are gifted with raw talents and big hearts.

Now when Ben Ryan’s sleepless nights may have come to an end, we the fans have just began ours as we anticipate with enthusiasm, imagining and dreaming of what is about to unfold and explode when the torch is lit in Rio..

7s crusade good to go!

Epeli Rabua, Suva

In the 1100s, a King of England – Richard “the Lionheart”, was about to embark on the third crusade to the Holy Land to redeem Jerusalem from the Saracens.

Fast forward 10 centuries later, Ben ‘the Lion’ Ryan, a kinsman of King Richard, in what is one of Britain’s former colonies – Fiji, is about to begin the final hurdle of his own crusade, which began three years ago.

The Lion has chosen his 13 knights to represent Fiji in this Olympic crusade – Apisai Domolailai, Leone Nakarawa, Josua Tuisova, Jasa Veremalua, Kitione Dawai, Samisoni Nasagavesi, Savenaca Rawaca, Semi Kunatani, Jerry Tuwai, Vatemo Ravouvou, Viliame Mata with Captain courageous, Osea Kolinisau and travelling reserve – Masivesi Dakuwaqa.

In his search for Olympic glory, the Lion has equipped his knights with the tools of their trade for this crusade – being bigger, faster, stronger than they have ever been.

Their armour, honed on the sand dunes in Kulukulu,  fortified with their God given natural talents and with the insights of their fellow knights who have passed on valuable lessons in physical, spiritual and especially mental toughness are worn with pride.

And to complete their attire, they have screened themselves with a shield from the Holy Bible – ‘that they can do all things, through Christ who strengthens them’ – from Phillipians 4:13.

The World 7s Series Champions will continue to carry their Christian faith to seek redemption in front of ‘Christ the Redeemer’ in Rio to wrench Gold and victory, not only for Fiji and Ben, but for themselves as well.

Let the Lion, Ben’s crusade move on.

Bring on Rio, bring on the Olympics. We will be ready.  Fiji – We Believe We Will Win!!!

Bati Ni Tanoa version

Joji. O Toronibau, Tunuloa

While watching the humorous Bati ni Tanoa show on FBC, I was adamant to also vouch for any three not necessarily be all men but women too from here in Rabi, Kioa, my palagi kaivata’s and or any other entertaining ethnic groups like our Indo Fijian brothers and sisters to also introduce their own version of BNT.

That will be hilarious and a step ahead in amusement. That’s real Fiji in the making and I earnestly request FBC chief executive officer to also consider this solemn wish.

iTaukei inmates

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Delta, BC, Canada

The move by the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) to adopt a traditional approach to address the growing i-Taukei population in Fiji’s corrections facilities is applauded.

A two-day workshop hosted by the iTaukei Affairs Ministry was held for senior FCS officials to undergo a cultural empowerment training with the ministry, as it was revealed that the iTaukei made up 77 per cent of the Corrections facility population or 1400 of the 1800 inmates around the country.

With all due respect, nearly all iTaukei inmates are Christians and I believe the solution to address the above growing iTaukei numbers in prison is for inmates to study the Bible and have a relationship with Christ as their Lord and Saviour and transformation of character follows.

The transformation into having the mind of Christ gives them a positive mind-set and God will reveal to them His plan for their lives.

Millions have been transformed through the power of the good news, but each individual chose to break the law and are behind bars for their crime.

Each should also individually want to change and open the door of their hearts for the Saviour to come in and change their life through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

I know of former inmates who are now church pastors and Bible workers and I believe beyond reasonable doubt that this method alone can transform the life of a hardened criminal into a kind hearted son of God.

The Church and the iTaukei Affairs Ministry and the FCS should be working together, not only focusing on the 77 per cent iTaukei population already serving as inmates in our Corrections facilities, but also to work on the transformation of iTaukei lives, so that those outside, stay outside.

Unlicensed dogs

Rajesh Lal, Labasa

It has become a hobby for some people to keep unlicensed dogs especially in the housing areas which is creating a nuisance and danger to the public.

Can the concerned authorities look into this matter as some people have more than three unlicensed dogs.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Naming the teams

Sukha Singh,

Labasa

Just wondering why the Fiji Football did not ask the Prime Minister or the Attorney General to name the soccer players to Rio.

Genuine and true

Fulori Turaga,

Suva

It is so gratifying and uplifting to see the many Fijians supporting Ben Ryan in the selection of his final squad to the 2016 Rio Olympics.

While some may not accept this with open arms, many might think otherwise. Whatever his decision is, I plead to all Fijians to stay genuine and true in their support and not start pointing fingers or start the blame game as soon as the boys gracefully bow out of the games (if that ever happens).

Some have started praying for the team even before the meet in Rio, so let us continue to do so even after, regardless

Soccer camps

Narayan Reddy,

Suva

I am not surprised that our soccer players broke camp and went on a drinking spree as they were preparing for Rio.

The same thing has happened in the past and it has happened again.

Suspending players is not the answer. Investigation must be carried out regarding the treatment of players in camp, food, bedding and the camp facility before blaming the players.

How many officials, coaches and management eat, sleep and train with the players. These are something FFA should look at because just blaming the players is not the answer!

Olympic test

Floyd Robinson,

Nasinu

What will be the biggest test for our athletes at the Rio Olympics Games?

The response may be endless, but with about 10,000 athletes competing in events and staying close to each other at accommodation centres, one can be assured of temptations.

Obviously there will be beauties from across the globe with all sorts of accents, different coloured eyes, complexions, heights, weight and hair textures.

After all, athletes are humans and at times find it  hard  to avoid temptations and infatuation.

Believe it or not, at regional and international sporting events, organisers often have to make available hundreds if not thousands of condoms.

Perhaps the biggest hurdle is overcoming temptations and human emotions given that loneliness  and cold weather  could  take its toll.

Unisex toilet

Nileshni Devi,

Nasinu

I was informed by a friend arriving from overseas that we have a unisex toilet at Nadi. International Airport.

Have we legalised gay, lesbian and same sex marriages in Fiji?

I know of some developed countries that do not even have that kind of public convenience.

Wow, Fiji is so advanced.

Adopt a nation

Rajesh Lal,

Labasa

Much has been done and achieved in adoption of schools by some loving and caring overseas countries.

Now since our nation is in heavy debt and the burden and axe is falling in the shoulders of our tax payers and on top of that our so called MPs are asking for their pay review it is just wise for our nation to be adopted by either China, USA, New Zealand or Australia for the benefit of every Fiji citizen .

When will the kerekere mind of this nation come to its senses . The word of God is very clear ‘ When God blesses a nation, that nation will not be a borrower but a lender’

The best example is the nation of South Korea which is reaping the blessings of God .

Will our young generations still live in bondage?

Food for thought

Teenage pregnancy

Wise Muavono,

Lautoka

Teenage pregnancy is more often than not, a result of lack of proper communication between teenagers and their parents.

Therefore, it is the duty of the parents to impart adequate sex education and education regarding reproductive health to their children so they become aware of the various aspects related to teenage sex and pregnancy.

Also, factors like alcohol and substance abuse accompanied by unrestricted interaction with the opposite sex can ignite the sparks of lust and passion in youngsters very easily ultimately leading to teenage pregnancy.

Nonetheless, at times, parents put too many restrictions on their children, especially girls.

This overprotection gives rise to frustration and a feeling of not being loved and cared for.

Thus, balance is the key to avoid this problem.

Rapist mother allegation

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,

Delta, BC, Canada

We are indeed living in a morally bankrupt world and to read that a mother is being charged for raping her own 14-year-old daughter in Fiji, kind of tell us we are living in the last days (FS 19/7).

We have talked a lot about young girls and older women being raped by men including fathers and grandfathers, but this case seems to indicate that women are also guilty.

The mindset of some iTaukei women have not changed, thinking if their daughter does something wrong, the mother has the right to discipline them by giving her a forced hairdressing appointment.

This case seems to take the matter to another level if it involves rape.

There is a real war happening in our lives and nationally, the war between good and evil and Christians needs to unite in prayer and warfare in the sharing of the good news, which alone is the solution for all the issues we face today.

US Presidential election

Amenatave Yaconisau

Suva

I coiled in terror to learn that Donald Truck spoke of law and order, terror and security as his main  theme during the Grand Old Party’s (GOP’s) convention in Cleveland, Ohio.

I wonder what on earth is going on with the Americans that even in Cleveland, a city known for immigrants, his political ambition just doesn’t seem to know any bound; the enemies were immigrants and Muslims to name a few.

Why can’t he deal with a stiffer naturalisation process than preaching hate speech against a particular religion?

Even if he talks appealingly and irritatingly most of the time, he simply cannot impose  his racist attitude to Americans.

He should persuade them to accept his position.

I’m sure most will be upset about such haughty and insolent behaviour.

While he calls democratic Hilary ‘crooked’ he brings his poor Slovenian wife to plagiarise on about her speech on him.

While she holds the ‘communist manifesto’ on one hand, she also holds the American constitution  on the other.

Is Trump bent on saving Americans and make it great again?

You’ve got to be joking !

Hilary has already served as Senator  in congress before and with Obama on her side she will be a more effective insider in that regard

I identify with her as a symbol of national unity.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

CWM Hospital fire system

Satish Nakched, Suva

It is with great disappointment to note that the Colonial War Memorial Hospital is not in compliance with the National Fire Authority requirements due to the fact that the fire alarm warning systems are not operational.

The fire control panel outside the Children’s ward and two near the emergency has been vandalised and are completely dead.

The fire panel glass door is smashed and the one outside the Children’s ward do not have any closure at all with exposed electrical wires and itself is a hazard. The chances are high that an unsupervised child can become a victim of electrocution.

There are smoke detectors mounted on the ceiling and if it detects smoke the signal will be sent to the fire panel and the audio siren will be activated giving the people inside ample time to be evacuated and move to safety. Apart from this most of the fire panels are directly connected to the NFA Control room and within minutes the fire trucks will be dispatched.

In a case of a fire time is sensitive and such information must come through without any delays for a speedy reaction. The fire control panels will also give the exact location of the fire. This equipment is to be serviced twice a year and the equipment tags are up dated the same time.

Upon closer inspections it was found out that most of the smoke detector are defective and are in default mode. Poor servicing, dust accumulation and the faulty signal communication lines can cause this.

It is the smoke and the toxic gas that kills people in a building fire rather than the heat itself. So it is necessary to sound the alarm and alert the people for reaction. The escape route must not be obstructed in anyway and exits clearly marked. There are damaged beds lined up near the stairs.

A well trained evacuation team on receiving such signals can reduce such risk of causalities. Timely special attention must be given to the physically challenged and the very sick people to move out to safety.

The CWM Hospital at any given time has more than five hundred inpatients and that numbers increases if the outpatient, staff and the visitors are added to the list.

The list also includes the vulnerable new mothers and the babies.

The hospital is located on a large area and is in a sense very compact if you divide the space available with the number of people present there.

The hospital operation is ongoing 24/7 and is bursting with activity with a lot of the pedestrian and vehicle movement.

Everyone who is in the hospital are in a very high red risk category should a fire break out which may have a catastrophic result.

Appropriate action must be taken now to ensure that the risk of fire in the hospital is minimised by compliance at all times with the fire safety requirements of the National Fire Authority.

The relevant Minister must immediately instruct the Safety Audit team to probe further with the view to eliminate the hazard and recommend corrective actions.

Such threats will only occur if the organisation has a poor and a very ineffective OHS Committee which itself is a breach of the Act and other associated legislations.

Congratulations CWM Hospital

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

My sincere congratulations to the Board of Visitors (BOV) of the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM) for your shining example in the official opening of your general shop; restaurant and flower shop.

I guess once BOV Nadi Hospital has finally gotten its act together with relevant stake-holders in resurrecting our own hospital’s paying ward, with utmost urgency, we could take a page out of your “master plan” and implement a similar project.

Take a bow!!!

Road rage

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

It’s sad to learn that another life has been lost on our roads.

While our condolences are with the family of the deceased, it’s important for us to also understand what led to the tragedy.

According to the Fiji Sun (21.07.16) the incident was more a case of road rage than a road accident.

Road rage is a dangerous, aggressive and angry behaviour by the driver or other road users.

It can happen with anybody and is dependent on the individual’s ability to cope with stress.

It’s important to understand how a seemingly petty issue on the road with a stranger you did not plan to encounter could become fatal.

All drivers would have experienced some form of road rage if not being a victim of one and it’s not difficult to understand how easily a small issue can translate into a major problem.

It’s important to understand the psychology of road rage in that it lasts only for a short period of time and if we are able to control ourselves and remain calm under pressure, we would be able to avoid its effect.

To all road users, please understand that road rage is a common problem which can easily be avoided.

We need to avoid getting into confrontations with other road users, remain calm when encountering a frustrated person while allowing him time to manage his own anger.

Education

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

Our Government must be congratulated for its Ministry of Education allocation in our 2016/2017 National budget; it simply signifies its priority and commitment to our future Fijian leader’s educational welfare and this is all about correcting the many injustices of the past.

To make Fiji a literate country it requires a leader with the political will to make the necessary change, a visionary with a well balanced mentally and physically fit strong individual at the same time lead with an iron fist to implement and stand by their inclusive policies.

The leaders must be one whom are seen determined to crack the whip and say, hey this is where the problem is, increase the budgetary allocation and review our education system with its various respective policies to move forward so we can all collectively progress.

An amazing feat by Government through its education initiatives policies from its Free Kindergarten with its first time guaranteed teachers pay policy through year 1-8 elementary and year 10-13 high school and its now Free Technical College Campus of which Nadroga and Navosa is the latest recipient from this wonderful vision.

What our Government is delivering to the nation was exactly what it promised all Fijians through its party manifesto pre-election that it will deliver exactly when they are voted back democratically to govern.

There is absolutely no truth in politicking or in that the FijiFirst party is campaigning in all these as claimed by the opposition party members and it is only delivering its undertakings on what a good visionary Government will always inclusively normally do.

Education, education and education, it changes many things and it is a fantastic armour.

Perhaps Government will consider after they have lowered our country’s debt levels, they might want to smartly consider Free University for all eligible Fijians after 2018, but only for those professions our country lacks the necessary numbers.

We must therefore tread very carefully and research how many large world economies have successfully or have failed in implementing such a scheme to date? We must not rush it just because we see other nations are applying and can afford to implement the same.

Right now let’s maintain our priorities through our National Budget but practically let’s live and see things through within our own means.

Our Defence Force

Neelz Singh, Lami

Day and night the officers are on duty so you can have a peaceful sleep at home. The tactics of criminals and their offences vary day to day with new and innovative ways. The defense unit with mobile and CID and other special task forces are surveying all height and corner of Fiji so they can apprehend illegal activities.

Why are they doing all this? Because of our children to be safe on every street, and towns. Don’t you want a drug free society? Don’t you

What’s in a Name?

Vimal Singh, Nausori

Shakespeare said:

“What’s in a name? that which we call a rose

By any other name would smell as sweet.”

I say:

“Ben Ryan, Peni Rayani or Ben Narayan

A gold in Rio would be so sweet.”

Hit and run

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

The extremely sad report of yet another hit-and-run fatality along the Nadi Back Road is a statistic Fiji simply cannot afford.

My earlier contributions about Fiji’s poor driving standards and LTA penalties being far too lenient is now repeated.

Speeding along the the Nadi back road and the Martintar stretch of the Queens Road after 11pm most nights is indeed a common occurrence.

Once more, I plead with both the LTA and Fiji Police to man both these accident-prone areas with an immediate and high visibility presence at staggered hours day and night.

There is an ever-increasing number of young, adventurous, careless drivers with “P” plates along most of our roads.

Something must be seen to be done.

Far too many warnings by both authorities have landed on deaf ears.

The time for these are now expired.

A greater degree of physical presence 24/7 is paramount.

No “ifs” and no “buts.”

The cost of needlessly lost human lives cannot be measured as too many of our drivers have become too bold and our penalties are not a deterrent.

In fact, any hit-and-run offender must expect mandatory suspension of license plus a hefty fine of minimum $1000 and/or six month sentence.

Drink-drive offence must bring mandatory license suspension plus $500 fine.

Too much time and cost is wasted for such cases going to our overworked and overloaded Courts, needlessly.

Our relevant authorities must now take pages from traffic penalties that apply in Australia and New Zealand. There is simply no mercy for offenders – especially repeat offenders.

Our enforcement authorities must wake up and take heed.

Infant bucket death

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

The Police Inspector has described the drowning death of an 11-month-old baby, in the bucket of water that was used to bathe him, as one of the saddest cases of drowning to be experienced.

Our hearts grieve with the young family as this first child meant the whole world to both of them.

To the 21-year-old father of the deceased baby, please forgive your wife and mother of the child, as nothing can be done to bring the child to life again.

The life of the innocent baby is in God’s hands now and the couple should learn from their mistake, remain faithful to God and to each other and try to have more children to take the hurt away.

The Bible talks of young children in heaven playing among lions and other tame animals, which should give hope to all who have lost innocent young lives in this life.

Good ministership

Sachida Rao, Nausori

The Minister for Women Rosy Akbar deserves praises, I say these from the comments made by her Indonesian counterpart.

The Minister for Women and empowerment said that she has learnt a lot from Fiji referring to the services and the manner the ministry is organised. Proud moment for Fiji.

Growing up and old

Ashneel J Prasad, Auckland, NZ

Every morning, my mother calls at from work (be it if I’m attending a lecture, or I am in city, or I’ve just woken up), without fail to see if I’d eaten something that morning. And every night, my dad asks me if I’ve got enough money to sustain myself for the next day.

It is small moments like these that reminds me constantly lucky I am of life.

My advice to everyone is to spend time with your parents. If you have them, one day they might not be there. Don’t forget, while you are growing up, they too are growing old.

State House concrete fence

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

It was a well published event when the Chinese Government was putting up a new fence for the President of Fiji’s official residence. This gift was well received by our Government during the Ratu Epeli Nailatikau era. So colourful and gold-coated in colour, it was a sight that made the Queen Elizabeth Drive so unique.

But looking at the same fence today it seems to be a century old. Rusted, worn out and in some areas it has fallen apart and there are patches in place in certain areas.

Hope that other developments the Chinese are busy at does not fall into the same fate as the State House fence.

Further down the road the Chinese Embassy is located with the wall looking as solid as a rock.

Hope they have noticed the fence and possibly thinking of renovating it to avoid any disappointment.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Short coconuts

Dr Joel Trazo, Nadera

This variety of coconut should be introduced in Fiji.

It’s about time we replenish the old ones with the new varieties, that is if we haven’t done it.

Our soccer team

Sukha Singh, Labasa

I just hope our national soccer team does not lose to any team in its pool.

Please, defend your goal like you are defending your country.

If you can cause an upset, please do so. You can do it.

Racial barriers

Lawrence H Narayan, Suva

It is often said sports unites people bringing all races together for one cause.

This is proved by the fact that we in Fiji stand out as united people during the World Rugby 7s series every year.

Incidentally, the work of reconciliation and brotherhood is supposed to be the core function of the “Church” as well as the elected members of our Parliament.

Ironically, both these institutions to some degree have been responsible for dividing our nation into racial barriers despite the wishes of the ordinary people who prefer to live their lives as one people and one nation.

It is also interesting to note that the term race does not appear in the Bible.

The Bible refers to differing peoples in terms such as family, tribe, people and nation.

It groups people according to familial relationships and then into nationalities.

An example of familial relationship is found in Genesis 10, where the genealogies listed are grouped by family and tribe.

The replenishing of earth’s population after the ‘Great Flood’ through Noah’s son are not associated with race or colour (Genesis 10:5).

Both the Old and New testaments show that God does not hold any significance to race.

God sees all people as one people called “man.”

Physical characteristics are not a part of God’s evaluation of man “. . .for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (I Samuel 16:7).

Naikelimusu bridge

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

The bridge at Nakelo Landing is becoming a threat not only to the people who use it but may give way if nothing is done immediately.

They are closing bridges around the country but have ignored a very important connection.

The bridge is losing a lot of land along the river bank of the Naimalavau side because of the many boats traveling in and out of Nakelo.

The water surge is hitting the river banks. A lot of soil erosion has taken place and both sides of the bridge are beginning to widen.

The villages that would be affected are Naimalavau, Vaturua, Nabouciwa, Matainoco, Buretu, Naivakacau, Daku, Nasilai, Vadrai, Muanaira and Kiuva.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj              

Bus stand congestion

Mohammed Sabir, Narere

In the information booklet of the 2016-2017 National Budget allocation for Fiji Roads Authority, under the Congestion and Capacity Improvements Programme for Town Centre Improvements, there is no allocation for the improvement of the Suva City Council bus stand area.

The bus stand is so congested and there is a need for the authorities to look into this matter. The contributing factor in the increased congestion is the increasing number of buses but the bus stand area size remains the same. Accidents often happen between buses at the stand area partly due to congestion and drivers being careless.

The council does not have a separate drop off area for buses that calls in to drop off their passengers; it only has a pickup area. I would suggestion that SCC, to eliminate the congestion, they should provide a different drop off area.

In the same information booklet under renewals and replacements—Roads and Services there are plans for improvements of various roads around 7 and 8 miles but there is no information of any repair works for Balolo Road in Narere Stage 3, which currently has cross drains and many pot holes.

Rape

Christopher Griffin, Perth

If the media is anything to go by on the prevalence of rape convictions in Fiji, would appear to be out of all proportion to the size of population and prison population in particular.

If there is such thing as a bona fide sociologist still around who is not part of Police or correctional services, could she or he therefore tell us how Fiji measures up in this matter with other countries around the world?

Otherwise we must be forgiven for thinking Fiji is in a rape league of its own.

And as the Commissioner of Police said recently, “speculating” on crime is unhelpful.

Yoga hype

Joan McGoon, Nadi 

It is exciting to have yoga introduced into our school system.

While it is a Hindu philosophy, there are certain aspects of it that can be enjoyed by all, if they are given the freedom to participate in those areas with which they are comfortable with, without causing offense to both instructor and student.

While I was in high school, I was kicked out of an Asian self-defence class (together with my best friend) because we chose not to participate in the meditation bit out of respect for our religious backgrounds.

The instructor had kindly allowed us not to participate in this and we thoroughly enjoyed the class however, in a month, I think the instructor felt that we were not on the same page of ‘spirituality’ as him because of the meditation bit and asked us to leave even though we had paid for our classes and were quite disciplined in all the exercises and stances.

So, a question remains, who are the yoga classes for? Just the Hindus or can anyone take part? And, if anyone can participate, will they be given the freedom and space to participate in whatever areas they are comfortable with? I think that this will be the deciding factor for whether or not this latest hype will continue or not in our multi-cultural, religious and diverse society.

Road marshals

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka

I remember some time back that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) had recruited road marshals.

They had fancy ID cards and reflective clothing as well. Today, I saw some of them driving illegal cars and vans. I wonder what they were taught when they were road marshals.

Fantastic Fiji

Taitusi Sokiveta, Phoenix, Arizona

Many have heard of these group of islands in the South Pacific.

Of its famous Fiji Water in our local grocery stores, scuba divers paradise, world surfing competition, the movie Castaway starring Tom Hanks on a deserted  island. That was Fiji, the movie that made Brooke Shields famous Blue Lagoon.

There is another side of Fiji that makes them famous; it’s the rugby game of sevens.  Fiji has won the World Rugby Sevens Series back to back.

Winning that championship is like winning the Super Bowl world series, the Stanley Cup and national basketball championship.

To the Fijians the game is so big and famous to these group of islanders of a population of about 800,000 in the South Pacific that after religion, its Fiji rugby 7s.

This is the first time they are playing rugby 7s at the Rio Olympics in Brazil.

Fiji has never won a medal since the Olympic Games started.

For Fiji to win a medal at the Rio games would be like an endless celebration from here till kingdom come.

Grandparents will be telling their grandchildren about the win in all the villages throughout the country.

For the biggest sports magazine in the United States to publish Fiji’s medal presentation at the Rio Olympics would be of great honour and gratitude from all Fijians.

Roaring engines

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

From a greater distance, in the dead still of night, the unmistakable loud roar of motor vehicle engine and screeching tyres, make me believe that stretches of the Nadi Back Road are being used for “sprints” by certain uncaring enthusiastic drivers.

Not only such “show-off exercises” cause much disturbance of the peace, but are extremely dangerous to all motorists, pedestrians and by-standers alike.

Please note that the JetSet town of Nadi is a tourist town with an international airport and high-end touristy Denarau hotels that do not sleep 24/7 x 365. Work goes on day-in and night-out seven days a week.

Will the hard-working CEO of LTA and the Police Commissioner please investigate my serious concerns in this regard?

I hope I am proven wrong. About 4am yesterday, I clearly heard the sound of roaring motor vehicle/s engine/s “back-firing” and screeching of tyres…doing “wheely stunts.”

It may also pay for organisers of a certain race club held in Deuba, Pacific Harbour, to address this matter with their members from the West.

I am led to believe that their membership from the West has grown to unprecedented levels.

Thank you earnestly to all relevant authorities concerned.

Vinaka, Employment Minister

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

The Minister of Employment and his team seems to be doing a very good job,. We are told that Fijians working in Australia and New Zealand under their respective seasonal work programmes are expected to surpass the one thousand mark.

It is also good to read that Fijians will also have an opportunity to work in the United States on farms in Hawaii and California by the year end and that they will also tap into the Canadian market.

Even though they have changed their recruitment criteria for seasonal workers, those registered with NEC and now find themselves outside the box, would not be too happy.

Fiji needs to be sending the best workers, those who are fit and used to working long hours in the sun as the performance of the first group of seasonal workers will open or shut the door for us.

To all Fijians looking forward to doing seasonal work, do not lose hope as the one thousand mark will jump to five thousand, when all the countries in the Minister of Employment’s radar opens up.

The original plan was for all seasonal workers to have a business plan and that the money saved from the seasonal work will be used as capital to start one’s own self supporting business.

I hope this is being followed through, making the whole seasonal work programme not just about the numbers working overseas but about having a new start, setting oneself up for life and an opportunity to be a blessing to others.

Fiji Sun’s ‘Letter of the Week’ winner for between July 8 and 16, Arien Vikash Kumar, has been writing to the newspaper primarily to raise public concerns.

The 35-year-old works in the administrative department of the Ministry of Education in Lautoka.

His winning letter was titled ‘Govt Fleet Services’. Mr Kumar’s first letter was about traffic problems in Nadi, and then contributed on issues of Tropical Cyclone Winston.

“I was very fortunate that I was chosen as a winner. I usually write about things that are affecting us, things that need to be addressed. That’s how I pick on what topic I want to write about, if it’s a general public concern. So if we sit and listen and get information from the media then we can be able to say what’s on our mind as well.”

He lives in Malolo, Nadi.

“I urge those writing to the column to keep writing. As long as we are writing on good topics, and we get this attention out to the public and other relevant authorities.”

He said the topics must have content and value.

“This is more of an encouragement to me receiving this prize, I will try to contribute more on topics that concerns us.

“This is a very good idea, to let the people know of what is happening around and I thank the Fiji Sun.”

Feedback:  litia.tikomailepanoni@fijisun.com.fj

Fiji Sun’s ‘Letter of the Week’ winner last week, Sukha Singh, felt excited and proud when he was presented with a Parker pen.

The 60-year-old wrote a letter to our Letters to the Editor column about blocked drains along the Labasa Hospital road.

“I feel very happy to win this prize,” Mr Singh said.

“I have been writing letters to the editor for this newspaper for more than 10 years. I write what I see as concerns, issues and hidden truths that need to be revealed.

“I don’t write to put someone down. I write so that positive change and impact takes place. For instance, about the blocked drains the Labasa Hospital, I have been observing it for six months.

“So many talks have been going around Fight the Bite campaign and yet our very own authority has their surroundings clogged up. Something needs to be done.”

Mr Singh is a retired electrician who worked with the Fiji Electricity Authority (FEA).

Feedback:  shratikan@fijisun.com.fj

Suva City Library

Arthur Solomon Meyers, U.S.A .

I am visiting Fiji and especially Suva.  I read in the Fiji Sun about Suva as a city of pride.

I am a recently retired Director of a public library in United States of America with more than 40 years of experience, and thus I visited the Suva City Library.

The library staff like all the Fijians I have met are very welcoming.

However, I was very disappointed that the library does not meet the goal in your nation’s Bill of Rights that every person has the right to education.  The condition of the book collection is very sad and not current in information.

I understand that the library has received many books.  Quite a few are in the library and on the dock but they are awaiting staff time and fiscal support to be added to the collection.

The Ministry of Education web site states that “access to education is essential to be effective and responsible citizens.”

The Suva City Library website encourages visitors to “peruse the library’s shelves.”

As a visitor to your beautiful city and country, I urge you to live up to your goals and provide the needed financial support.

Thank you.

Wananavu!

Jill Jaques, Nadi 

It was a joy to see a large group of young men from Ratu Navula College in Nadi picking up rubbish from the drains along Denarau Road, Nadi, on Saturday, July22.

They were all wearing school sports uniform so everyone could identify their school and see what a great job this college is doing to develop their students social conscience.

A big vinaka vakalevu to those young men who gave up their Saturday to help in their community.

I would like to challenge other schools to follow the lead of this excellent example set by Ratu Navula College.

It is time to STOP throwing rubbish out into the roadside drains from buses and vehicles. Take pride in your environment and keep your communities litter free.

Busy Traffic

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka

Every morning and every afternoon Lautoka is just like Suva with traffic congestions. With so many Japenese second hand cars on our road it’s about time something is done to ease the traffic flow in our country.

It’s not just a problem in Suva and Lautoka, I have seen the same problem in Nadi.

It’s about time we have two lanes of road for each way.

To avoid future accidents the roads authorities should start planning!

Complaint by Mohd Hassan on Radio Fiji Talkback

Rajendra Prasad, Labasa

I have been informed by some prominent Cane growers that one Mohd Hassan of Nabekavu, Labasa had criticised me and my other Labasa Sugar Cane Growers Council staff in the Radio Fiji talkback show last Friday for not addressing his problem.

Unfortunately this talkback show is one sided where the person who is blamed is not given a fair chance to defend or explain the truth. I feel that the public needs to know the truth as he has defamed me and other dedicated staff and the Council.

On 5/7/16, Hassan had lodged a complaint that a cutter had obtained $800 from him and was harvesting cane elsewhere. We immediately wrote to the Waiqele Sector and stopped the cane cutter.

The next day the cutter came to our office with his gang sirdar and the grower for whom he had been harvesting cane in 2014 season.

He admitted obtaining $800 from Hassan to harvest cane in 2015 season. He said when he went to harvest cane, he was asked by Hassan to stay in a goat shed and there was no water supply and he was told to drink water from the creek.

He said he then decided to return the $800 but Hassan didn’t accept it.

He said Hassan had now issued a Small Claims Tribunal summons on him and the case was to be heard on 15/07/16 which he would defend.

We then wrote to the Registrar of the Sugar Industry Tribunal and were advised that we cannot stop the cutter from harvesting elsewhere in view of the case pending before the Small Claims Tribunal. Hassan was informed about this and the cutter was allowed to harvest for his previous grower as per the MOGA.

Hassan himself had breached the MOGA condition advancing money to a cutter without first obtaining a release from the previous grower.

He is further frustrated as he was not given a contract to repair cane access roads due to his performance in 2015 season.

He was also forcing us to give him a lorry license concession which is purely given to lorry owners who are engaged in only carting cane and have hauled over 500 tonnes but Hassan had failed to meet this criteria as he had hauled a small amount of cane and his lorry was engaged in other business as well.

I feel sorry for Hassan and have decided to drop the idea of instigating legal proceedings for defamation against him and the Radio Fiji.

However, I feel that the announcer should contact us for clarification during the programme.

A free Fiji

Joan McGoon, Nadi

Travelling by bus gives one an opportunity to observe and admire our beautiful country and it’s people.

Sitting next to an elderly Indian gentleman who was excitedly observing his surroundings, I was immediately interested in a passing comment he directed at me.

He said: “Fiji is changing so much! Now…the Fijian girls are growing their hair long and the Indian girls are cutting theirs…’after which he shook his head in disapproval or confusion, I wasn’t sure.

“Not sure how or whether to respectfully approach this subject with this kind gentle-man, I smiled at him and reminded him that Fiji is a free country.

“Those girls were free to wear their hair however way they chose. For so many years, stereotypes have existed here in our country about how a person should behave, what a certain race should dress like, speak like, behave and even think like and that in essence, had stripped away the freedom of our very own patrons and brought a lot of unnecessary pressure and unhappiness for those free-spirited souls and those they came in contact with.

As I glanced at those ‘girls’ he was referring to, they were just sitting and also enjoying being a part of our amazing country.

With freedom, comes responsibility and these girls seemed to be handling their responsibility quite well.

As our bus passed a nearby wooded park, we saw a couple getting quite romantic and a few chuckles could be heard around the bus.

Yes, we have been given a beautiful country to enjoy and love but…not alone. We were meant to enjoy it together.

May we continue to embrace our freedom, responsibility and each other with open arms.

Government job losses

Saverio Baleikanacea (former Deputy Permanent Secretary), Delainavesi

The Commissioner Northern, Mr Josaia Vocea’s comments are commended in that the recent Civil Service Reforms carried out by the World Bank had brought about “positive changes” in Civil Service pay structure for many Civil Servants, particularly in the Medical profession.

As a result of the Civil Service Reforms (CSR) Civil Servants have also lost their jobs. A good example of this CSR is the PSC case.

On 30th October, all PSC employees received letters notifying them that their employments will be terminated from 29th February 2016.

A small number of these employees were paid a measly so called redundancy pay based on two weeks pay for each year of service.

A small number were fortunate enough to be absorbed by other Ministries/Departments, through their own individual efforts.

Surprisingly, PSC, the Ministry of Civil Service and Government made no effort to redeploy the affected PSC employees.

The majority of PSC employees lost their jobs without any compensation (redundancy packages)  and remain unemployed to date.

At the request of some of these employees. I Saverio Baleikanacea have personally taken up their claims of unfair, wrongful and unlawful dismissal which is awaiting the decision of the Employment Relations Court to allow their case to be heard or otherwise.

This is also happening because their Trade Union, the Fiji Public Service Association, had refused to represent its members with PSC, Ministry of Civil Service & Government.

Drug policy

Francisco Leitupo, Lautoka

The drug problem is one of the most controversial and sensitive issue that encompasses the world today because of its contribution to the social ills that is prevalent in our society.

Governments across the globe have enacted policies to deal with this problem in one way or another. Fiji is not new to this drug problem as previous Governments and the current one has mapped out policies that criminalise the possession and usage of drugs.

Marijuana being the main herb that is being cultivated by local farmers is on-going despite the laws in Fiji that prohibits the cultivation and its usage. This may be because of the crop being a source of income for these farmers and as a way out of poverty.

While reading and following the recent ‘Operation Cavuraka’, I suddenly remembered a programme (My Perfect Country: Portugal Link: http//www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03gsc50) on the BBC which I had listened to earlier this year (around February).

The half an hour short audio was about the de-criminalisation of drug policy in Portugal and its implications, which was discussed by various independent researchers and analysts and also featured testimonies from ex-drug users and offenders who came through the policy.

This was the system whereby the drug problem was taken out of the criminal justice system and into healthcare. The pioneer and architect of the policy also explained on the policy and why the country needed to have it.

After listening to the programme, I felt an urge to do some research on this policy which had improved public health and safety in Portugal and reduced drug usage, cultivation and possession.

In the 1990s, the drug problem had spiraled out of control which brought with it an increase in crime rates and violence. After years of waging war on drugs, the country decided to change strategy.

In 2001, Portugese legislators enacted the policy of decriminalising drugs – this means that criminal penalties for cultivation, possession and consumption of all illicit drugs were eradicated and were rather reclassified as ‘Administrative violations’.

This means that if a person was found to be in possession of any type of drugs for personal use, they were no longer arrested but were ordered to appear in a local commission made up of a 3-person team comprising of a legal, healthcare and social welfare official, however, the person was not forced to appear.

These officials determine whether and to what extent the person is addicted to drugs. The commission than can refer that person to a voluntary treatment programme or impose other sanctions but the person will not face the criminal judiciary system.

The person was rather dealt with by healthcare.

However, drug use and possession are still illegal despite criminal sanctions being abolished.

Independent analysts of the Portugese policy further stated the policy had reaped remarkable results in that there were;

• No major increases in drug usage.
• Reduced problematic and adolescent drug use,
• Fewer people arrested and incarcerated for drugs
• More people receiving drug treatment
• Reduced drug-induced deaths
• Reduced social costs of drug misuse.

To summarise the policy, it is simply an Act that eliminates the detainment, imprisonment and prosecution of drug offenders and users in a court of law but offers an alternative solution in that the problem is a health issue that is needed to be treated – not punished.

It no longer sees drug users and offenders as criminals, but rather as sick people that needed to be treated by healthcare professionals.

The main architect behind the policy, Dr. Joao Goulao in his interview with the BBC further stated that they were “dealing with a health issue, rather than a criminal one”.

Moreover, he stated that the stigma that had been leveled at drug addicts and offenders had dropped dramatically and that offenders and addicts were able to seek professional healthcare and counseling without fear. The main idea behind the policy was that it focused on the dignity of the human person.

The policy does not eliminate the drug problem totally but rather reduces the usage substantially. Furthermore, the decriminalisation policy does not mean legalising drugs as it is still being outlawed in Portugal but rather it is not considered a crime. To date, drug related problems are at an all-time low in the country.

In my view, I think our local legislators should try and study this approach and come up with a similar policy. As the saying goes ‘Prevention is better than cure’. I fully support what is being done by our law enforcers in its war against drugs, but the drug problem will never be eliminated any time soon.

Maybe, the best approach the Government could do perhaps is to try and switch strategy in dealing with the drug problem as per the Portugese model. However, there may be extra financial costs and extra funding for the health sector if a similar policy was to be enacted in Fiji but the benefits of this type of policy are diverse. It will not only help in the reduction of drug related crime rates but also promotes social well-being and human dignity in dealing with drug offenders.

Games and drama

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

It appears that even before the Rio Olympics dramas have unfolded.

To begin with there were health experts advising against the games going ahead due to fears about Zika virus but this is difficult given the investment of US$11 billion dollars into preparations.

Days before the games one country, Australia, has pulled its team out from the accommodation venue due to health and hygiene concerns.  Some organisation had unsuccessfully lobby for Russia to be banned from the Olympic Games.

Meanwhile on the streets of Rio de Janeiro thousands if armed troops are providing beefed up security which begs a question.

Are our athletes safe in Rio?

Whatever ones views, looks like dramas have unfolded before the games have started.

Perfect timing

Arien Vikash Kumar, Nadi

There would have been no other better time than this for the Fiji Roads Authority and Higgins to upgrade the Nadi Back Road.

Four lane is on progress from Martintar to Namaka. Cane crushing just started with slow moving trucks on the road anytime of the day and night.

The Bula Festival is also going well causing more traffic jams in Nadi Town (forget about the daily congestions and its pain).

But the upgrading of the Nadi Back Road during this busy week is more like the “icing on the cake”, thanks to some great minds.

Please, there are other roads such as Malolo, Salovi, Nawaka, etc which needs much more attention at this point of time rather than the busy back road which still could wait for upgrade or major maintenance.

It’s simply inviting more accidents as some frustrated drivers are bound to make silly or major mistakes while rushing or speeding.

Somebody should capture the looks of the frustrated drivers and passengers waiting in the long queues. I bet some might win the prize for the best smile of the week.

Water safety

Satish Nakched, Suva

It was alarming see a photograph in a newspaper last week of the Minister of Women on tour with another Minister of a neighbouring country travelling in an open punt without the use of any life jackets.

They were also accompanied by other officials of the party too and exposed to the risk of drowning. I believe that this mode of travel is governed by the Fiji Maritime and Safety Authority of Fiji where the Ministry vigorously try to educate people on water safety.

It is a breach of the Act and there is a fining machisim in place for anyone who is not in compliance to the legislation. We see our ministers as people who are the custodian of the laws and they must set ethical standards for the nation to follow.

If she and the team had worn life jackets probably the signal would have gone to the people that everyone must adhere to the law and not one is exempted or is above. It is also note mentioning that the Minister of Education who donated a fibreglass boat to a school was seen on the TV news last week taking a joy ride on it without any lifesaving equipment.

The relevant authorities must come down hard on such abuse and the message must get across to the public on the requirement of safe travel on water.

Assassinated Catholic Priest

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

The dastardly, senseless, cowardly assassination of an 86-year old Catholic priest, near Normandie, France cannot and must not “go away” in un-spoken silence.

Reverend Father Jacques Hamel was conducting mass to two nuns and two others on Tuesday morning, July 26, 2016 when he was killed.

This is shamefully disgusting.

One precious life of so many years of service to his community was snuffed out as he went about doing his life’s work in the sanctity of his church is far too painful to bear.

His assassins, reportedly ISIS, went so unbelievably low.

Heavenly Father, in Jesus name we thank you for the precious life of Your Servant, Father Jacques Hamel.

Thank You for his life of service as Your “man of the cloth.” Comfort his grieving family and community.

In Your loving mercy, Lord God, please rest Father Hamel’s soul as we make our prayers in your son, Jesus’ name, who is and always will be, our Precious Lord and Saviour.

Words simply fail to accurately describe how enormously painful it is for all who love God and revere Him for such a low down act of senseless killing.

Rest in Perfect and Eternal Peace, Father Hamel.

$400 bula smile

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

One main characteristic difference between our current Prime Minister and those of the past is that our PM listens to problems and uses his powers to fix the problem on the spot or directs the authorities concerned to take action.

This not only happens when he is on the air during the iTaukei radio talk back shows, but when people approach him at his office or whereever one gets a chance to seek his help.

Lately, we should not be surprised to read that “Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama surprised cane farmers during his consultation visit to the Western Division over the past three days by resolving some of their problems on the spot.” (FS 26/7).

“Issues such as water shortage because of the ongoing drought, leases, operational issues faced with the Fiji Sugar Corporation and iTaukei Land Trust Board, and other problems faced by the farmers were brought before Mr Bainimarama.”

It is also encouraging to read that the Minister for Health and other Government ministers and their teams were visiting other staff of work areas in Fiji, to listen to their problems, and fix it on the spot if it was within their powers or direct people to the proper authorities.

It has been joked upon in the previous governments that ministers only come around during election campaigns and once voted to power, they do not visit their electorates until the next election.

It is great to note that our current FijiFirst Government has been consistent in its service delivery and general outreach to all Fijians during the past two years and are still at it as we head towards the 2018 General Election.

Rio sevens hopeful

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Never in doubt all who have been selected will be on their best when entering the Olympic  Arena on D-Day.

As Coach Ben Ryan has indicated, the form of Leone Nakarawa, Semi Kunatani, Jasa Veremalua, Apisai Domolailai and Viliame Mata were just hard for him to be able to leave these guys out.

With Viliame and Leone breaking their fitness record and Jasa who has been flying all year, Semi too has got good form and Apisai has always been the same. They have the basics and surely, we have got good depth everywhere.

The other selection that caught everyone by surprise was Viriviri. Ben said he had broken his fitness record and showed that his speed was back.

With Rawaca losing the weight he needed, Rio will prove who is faster than the other. Perhaps they should have a test run with Usain Bolt before the games.

The fitness of the boys were proven last Saturday when the two dropouts Nemani  Nagusa and Aliverati Veitokani played for Nadroga in the Skipper Cup against Northland. They played an outstanding game and both played the full 80 minutes.

We can keep praying and be supportive for our Rio boys and wish them all the best.

Fijian arrow

Timoci Gaunavinaka, Nausori

In the opening of the Barcelona Olympic Games way back in 1992, the last relay runner used the torch to light an arrow placed on the bow by a Spanish archer, Antonio Rebollo.

Rebollo shot the arrow across the Olympic ground to light the Olympic torch at the other end of the ground as the world watched in amazement.

Riding on Rebollo’s arrow was the pride of a nation that was once an empire.

Many later asked Rebollo what would have happened had he missed the shot.

He replied: “I can’t miss. I am a former Olympic silver medallist in archery and I have practiced this particular shot more than 700 times.”

Only much later then it was revealed that the shot was fake and the torch was lit via remote control.

Today, Fiji has already shot its arrow targeting gold in Rio. It is not fake. We have won the Sevens Rugby World Cup twice and we are currently the reigning World Rugby Sevens series champions.

We have practiced our moves and game plan a few hundred times. We have scaled the sand dunes and now doing our last preparation in thin oxygen altitude almost 4000 meters above sea level.

Rebollo’s arrow may have missed the target but camera angles made it look real. Fiji’s arrow cannot miss and must hit the bulls-eye if we are to win gold.

The members of the team we have and how we have prepared them would determine the outcome.

Ben Ryan correctly stated that we have done the best we can, and if that does not win us gold in Rio, then whoever wins it is a better team than us and deserves it.

Whatever result our team to Rio brings, we must accept it and embrace them for giving their best.

Nadi Hospital!

Herleen Emily Kumar, Nadi

It is nice to see that the Minister of Health, Jone Usamate is doing a lot to provide excellent services to the public.

His early visit to the Nadi Hospital on July 22 was really an eye-opener to me. I went to the hospital the day before his visit and saw the hospital in an appalling condition. You see rubbish lying about carelessly and no one from management had bothered to clean it.

Their services were so poor. A senior citizen who could not walk properly was not given any attention.

However, on the visit of the minister, everything in the hospital was so clean, flowers were everywhere, cobwebs were all cleaned out and the staff members were so attentive to each individual patient present there.

Were the staff members doing this to save their jobs? Or to show how efficient Nadi Hospital is? So everyone present there got surprised with the change in attitude and services?

Everyone started talking about it. It has been nearly a week, since the minister’s visit. I thought someone would step forward and raise this issue.

However, that did not happen. We have many voices around this nation today, but a very few actions. Every civil servant of this country is paid wages because of ordinary people like us.

So it is their duty to provide excellent services to the public. It is also a big kerekere (request) to the minister to make a surprise visit to Nadi Hospital without anyone knowing about it, then and only would the true and real picture of Nadi Hospital be revealed.

Fiji time

Wise Muavono, Lautoka

To all ministers, permanent secretaries and senior civil servants please be on schedule if you’re the chief guest to any school event. Sa rauta mada na Fiji time tiko (Stop going on ‘Fiji Time’).

Infant drowning

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

While our sympathies are with the families of the two infants who drowned last week it’s important to understand the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

One infant drowned in the safe haven of his home while the other in the Rewa River.

The sad fact is that despite so much awareness created by relevant authorities, we as a society do not seem to be learning. Every year we have cases of children drowning and bringing misery to their families.

We don’t seem to be taking heed of the advices given and continue exposing our children to hazardous situations. Children are always vulnerable and it’s important for the parents to provide them with all the support they require.

Those of us living near rivers and streams, we have to ensure our children are supervised at all times. Perhaps it’s time for the relevant authorities to charge these parents for neglect and failing to provide necessary care to their vulnerable children.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Nadi arrivals

Edwin Sandys, Suva

This is a common problem which I have seen on too many occasions at the International Arrival Area at the airport in Nadi.

On Sunday July 24, 2016 I was standing at the car park beside the pedestrian crossing and a young lady pushing a trolley full of cases across the road to a car park via crossing.

At the centre of the road the trolley got stuck so I rushed across to the centre to help the lady get it on to the other road and then cross the road to get to the car park.

The lady had a big smile and a big thank you which made my day. Following closely behind her was a young man with a blue Tee-shirt and the name Initial on it. He did not move an inch to assist but followed her to take the trolley back to the other side.

Then I witnessed another older woman struggling with her two large suitcases from the arrival lounge across the two roads to reach the car park.

Again there were close to five Initial employees standing around at the arrival lounge busy talking.

These were visitors to this beloved country of ours. It is understandable renovations are being carried out and surely the authorities should seriously consider having porters to assist the tourist to the car park for hotel transfers.

Is this not part of the Initial employees job description or are they just hired to collect the trolleys?

I can clearly recall before there were employees there to assist our visitors with their trolleys get to the car park.

It also happens to visitors who have arranged their own transport having to lug their luggage to the middle of the road, or across the other lane to the car park.

The authorities should seriously consider allowing an area where the vehicles are permitted in to load and move out. They should follow the Nausori Airport example as it works perfectly.

All the airport taxis parked to one side, controlled by security and only a couple, right outside the arrival lounge and called as requested.

Any other vehicles are only allowed in to load when their passengers have arrived and ready go. No parking and waiting.

CAAFI or ATS whoever is responsible, we have a responsibility to look after our visitors arriving. A first impression is a lasting one and I can assure having to push a trolley full of suitcases from the arrival lounge to either the centre or the car park is not giving our overseas visitors a very good first impression.

I ask whoever is responsible to please address this issue as I see it almost every time (which is often) I am at our international airport.

We need to lift our standard to the Way the World should be.

Uncivil servants

Arun Prasad, Nausori

I wish to express my views on your front page report [F S 28/7].

I believe that majority of the government workers are performing true to the words “Civil Servant.”

There are some who are tarnishing the good image by being “uncivil servant.”

Believe me, when the Civil Servants, or any customer services officer for that matter, walk up to the counter to serve, it makes us feel happy.

Even, if we cannot achieve the aim of the visit.

Reading how the poor old lady [she can’t be lying]  and how the cane lorry drivers were treated in the North really saddened me.

I could not read further as my vision became hazy.

Teenage pregnancy

Neelz Singh, Lami

How can we address and combat teenage pregnancies?

There has been a 5 per cent increase recorded in teenage pregnancies and the number is growing since last year.

Such cases seen in teens and youths are being sexually active and are unaware of safe sex and the use of contraceptives.

Do you think sex education awareness programme can be some sort of alternative to decrease such issues?

What other means of techniques can be used as tools in the education sector to combat teenage pregnancies?

PM and party

Sukha Singh,  Labasa

I have never seen a bigger crowd at the Labasa Civic Centre than yesterday 27/7/16 where the Prime Minister, A-G and other ministers were going to talk on the new sugar bills.

I think the next time we will have to use the Subrail Park. The best thing I liked when the PM said: “I made you all Fijians”. I have never seen any other Government come to the people like this.

The Prime Minister has some kind of magnetism that pulls the people and I hope other parties start coming to the people too if they want to retain their seats.

Spiritual mirror

Lawrence H Narayan,  Suva

Licences give people permission to do something that would otherwise be forbidden.

In the Christian circles, the most common response by some law keeping Christians to Grace, “Is grace a license to sin?” Apostle Paul responds to this question in Romans chapter 6: “…God forbid.”

Grace never gives permission (license) to sin. Instead, it gives us the ability to live holy lives and live godly, soberly, and righteously in Christ (Titus 2:12).

What would then stop Christians from harming or even killing their own children? Is it

1. Law of the land?
2. God’s Law? or

iii. Compassionate love for own flesh and blood?

It is a known fact that people are quick to protect their own children but would have little care for others.

Besides, the perfect man, Adam in his primitive state of innocence was endowed with ability to keep the whole moral law.

He had righteousness, sanctity of will, and perfection of power. He had the copy of God’s law written on his heart, yet he sinned.

The Bible also states that God’s Law does not save anyone rather it was intended to show us what sin is and that we are guilty of it. It is like a mirror, it can show us that we are dirty but it cannot make us clean.

Cleansing from sin is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:20).

Bus service

Tomasi Boginiso,  Nasinu

Very surprising to hear the Nair Transport Co Ltd company director complaining about complaints from the public.

If he is not seeing the problem or communicating with his drivers, then there is something wrong.

If you are at the Suva Bus Station and looking at all the bus conditions, the bus that operates that Waibuku Road is always the worse bus with its appearance.

And with the bus garage and office located on the entry of this road it could not be easily ignored.

We have seen their buses and we are behind the people of Waibuku Road in fighting for their right.

Pick me up sauce

Joe Smith, Pacific Harbour

This locally filled sauce with the same NZ-made label is too watery, weak and tastes lighter than what we had experienced overseas.

Could Consumer Council of Fiji look into this, please?

Self defence classes

Siddharth Prasad, Suva

As the Vodafone Hibiscus festival looms near, a particular contestant caught my attention with her topic.

Hats off to Sheenal Swastika (FS/24/07/16) for bringing up self defence as a solution to the ever growing cases of abuse, murder, robbery and the like. With your mention of it as a spark, I hope that it will ignite the minds of many to take up this initiative.

We live in a morally-challenged society where our women and children are no longer safe.

Most of the perpetrators are not strangers, but close family members of the victims themselves. How then can our loved ones be safe?

Being a martial arts enthusiast and student, I have learnt that it trains the body and mind; the body for fitness and how to defend one’s self in times of danger and the mind for discipline at all times.

That really is so much needed today. That may be our last resort.

Once again kudos to Ms Sheenal Swastika. You definitely have my vote for Queen.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj