Government jobs

Rajeshwar Singh, FPSA general Secretary, Suva

I refer to the letter in Your View column (FS 27/7/16) by Saverio Baleikanacea which contains inaccuracies regarding the Fiji Public Service Association.

Mr Baleikanacea is advised that he should know his facts before putting pen to paper. Perhaps after his retirement he has lost touch with the changes that have taken place in the area of employment relations. We strongly refute his allegations that the association refused to represent its members. His misrepresentation of facts is inexcusable as he has been our ex-member and also an ex-employee of the association.

FPSA took the case of PSC staff on November 4, 2015 regarding the restructure under the Civil Service Reform programme, and redundancy of employees, although many of them were non members.

The association and the Commission under the chairmanship of the Solicitor General had several meetings on the payment of redundancy and the replacement of staff from PSC to other ministries and departments.

After protracted negotiations and several meetings including exchange of letters the talks came to an end without any resolution to the dispute.

On November 16, 2015 the association reported a Trade Dispute to the Arbitration Court as a dispute of interest, pursuant to Employment Relations (Amendment) Act 2015, on behalf of the FPSA members to seek realistic level of redundancy payments in relation to their years of service.

We wish to inform Mr Baleikanacea that our dispute is still with the Arbitration Court and we are awaiting the convening of the Court to progress the redundancy claim further on behalf of our members.

Natabua, Saru Raod

Arien Vikash Kumar, Nadi

As you enter the Natabua Road from the main Queens Highway, first you’ll see the tall mango trees on both sides of the road which is the best substitute for a Bus Shelter (probably that’s the reason there is no bus shelter on the Junction till today).

Further in, is the Lautoka Corrections Centre with staff quarters, then a junction on the left leading to Golden Age Homes and a secondary school.

Bit further along the main Natabua Road, on left is a prominent Government School (Primary) and one of the Fiji’s largest Universities i.e  “FNU”.

Also on the left is the Natabua Police Post. Directly opposite the post office, on the right is Natabua Housing.

What else is expected on or along this road?

A horrific accident is what we can expect next (sooner or later) on this road if the condition of the road and footpath remains the same.

The real journey starts passing the biggest  AOG Church towards the Saru Water Treatment Plant.

From here, you will see houses on both sides. What really catches one’s attention is that the doors and windows of all these houses along the roadside are always seen closed during the daytime.

Guess what? It’s not because of frequent daylight robberies or “what” but only because of the “Dust”. People have to hide behind the closed doors and windows to duck the dust.

Another common sight would be the “brown flower gardens” in front of these houses. Colourful flowers are always covered with dust.

Probably a visit along this road will open some closed minds and eyes.

Wave energy?

Edwin Gardner, Suva

Just wondering, how a wave energy reading device that was donated to Fiji by a German institution through a USP department and was placed outside the Hideaway Resort on the coral coast is doing?

The device was placed at roughly 15 metres depth although no specification about 15 metres at low or high tide was given; also whether 15 metres from the top or bottom of the device.

The device was to be level but no leveler was used. The device was also placed on a sandy bottom so it would probably sink over time.

I hope it is not concluded that Fiji has no wave energy simply because a device was not laid down according to specifications so maybe inaccurate readings.

Letter of The Month

Congratulations  Health Minister

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 centres.

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.

DEWAN CHAND, NAMADI HEIGHTS

Mr Chand will receive a Micromax mobile phone from

Courts (Fiji) Limited.

 Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Lease expiry

Sachida Rao, Nausori

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama’s revelation that non-renewal of agricultural leases should be made known to the tenants at least five years prior to expiry of any lease is a good gesture by a good leader.

This way the tenants will have ample time to prepare and relocate themselves and plan for the days ahead.

The evictions will not be that painful and sudden.

I say this because I have gone through the sudden eviction in 1999.

The feel of such an unpleasant ordeal is only known to the victims.

The past politicians have really failed to advise and explain the terms and conditions of the lease agreements and the lines in between the lines contained in the ALTA leases.

It is quite vividly mentioned that the land could be returned to the owners. This is fair and square.

But, our fore fathers who were not that literate I mean in the English language and just nodded to the politician.
There should have been awareness by then politicians advising the possible evictions. There should have been counselling sessions for the evicted who have gone through the trauma of the displacement.

The helping hands were hardly found.

Now, the tenants will come to know of their fate at least five years ahead of the expiry of the leases.

Yes, the place I left some 16 years ago has thick grass and tall guava trees.

Blame the rain

Vili Yaranamua, Nadi

During my trip to the capital city three weeks ago, I decided to go to the Vodafone Arena to attend the Fiji Showcase and later to the ANZ Stadium for the Super Rugby match.

The unpredictable Suva weather greeted this lone visitor from the burning West with continuous light to moderate rain and cold wind.

I was on my way to pay my admission when I heard from the loudspeaker the song “Blame it on the rain” from the stage outside the arena.

I said to myself, certainly yes, blame it on the rain.

And for the Hibiscus Festival celebrating 60th anniversary this year, let’s cross our fingers not to blame the rain again, as it did last year at the foreshore.

Public service, a myth or reality?

Dr Sushil K sharma, Lautoka

The public service has been traditionally in existence for almost the exclusive provision of “service” to the “public” of our nation, as the name “public service” so eloquently applies. Over the years the concept of “public service” has undergone some changes, especially with influences from advanced and developed democracies like Australia and New Zealand, whereby the slow encroachment of the “user pay” concept and privatisation of some public entities, has bled us dry of the “service” concept that we took for granted.

Attempts by successive governments to charge for services, has not necessarily meant any improvements in the quality or services to our people either.
On the contrary despite charges for many services and reforms, this has not led to any increase of efficiency for the benefit of our nationals. User pay concepts have often come at the expense of further degraded levels of service, as profit and “claw back” on costs associated with the provision of services to the general public, has often been the agenda of successive governments.

Thus with time the term “service” has become a nomenclature – terminology – classification – vocabulary, that does not reflect at all the older concepts of service.

Public servants in the public service previously, were there for the provision of personalised, warm and caring service, with a smile and constant follow-up of “people’s” cases. The public employees were quite literally “public servants”.

This is far from the case today.

These days this concept is a distant dream and the public service is seen as a bastion for employment, with a permanent lifelong security of employment and perks and benefits that are a dream to many laymen.

It is almost a tradition that once in the door; a lifelong tenure is guaranteed and normal promotions and benefits will accrue as long as one was astute enough to remain below the radar.

In the civil service, unlike the private sector, it was noted that as long as one was “paddling the oars”, staff who were almost many decades behind in knowledge and evolving technologies, could go by, without any repercussion to the security of their employment.

Compared to the private sector, the civil servant was destined to be at the mercy of the employer for keeping abreast with knowledge and technology, and not required to be astute enough in their own rights.

Often certain grades of staff transferred to the maritime areas, could “vegetate” needlessly to almost retirement age, without the employer in some cases, even taking a keen interest in their welfare.

In summary, quite literally if many of these “public servants” worked in the private sector, with the same mentality and often left in their own elements, the private enterprise would be bankrupted overnight.

The culture of neglect and unprofessional conduct has been so rife, that there are officers who report to work at 8 am and the first thing they would do is to go to the toilet and then make some tea for breakfast for themselves in the tea room.

The adage being that if you are a civil servant, you should go to the toilet, have tea, breakfast, or lunch in the government’s time, while still earning a salary or wages, whilst at it. Further one quite literally also went to the bank, post office, paid the electricity and water bills also on the employers time, as who was going to watch and/or report ?

The “grapevine effect” would sort out matters for the culprit via cold shoulders for future promotions, non-approvals for training workshops, and other road-blocks put in place, for the “whistle blower”.

The above observations are realistic as many of us have been though the mill in the public service and are fully aware of the type of things that go on in some departments.

Nepotism is rife and a culture of repression of those who can perform and are academically very well qualified, are seen as a threat to others vying for positions, power and promotions.

Many extremely talented people have thus migrated overseas from the Fiji Public Service, as their career pathway was cut short by the sheer cruelty of the people they surround – cut throat attitude and behaviour and the use of higher authority connections at the PS and even the Minister’s level, to leverage outcomes.

This often at great detriment to the organisation and the nation at large, that one may be working for. Some of these matters were publicly stated as problems in the Public Service, by the A-G also in the past, and is on public record and by no means an exaggeration.Due to this many very well qualified professionals have had their career cut-short on the guise of them reaching the retirement age of 55, and moved out of the organisation, with green-horns with no experience or even without adequate qualifications in the respective field, holding senior positions.

Fiji needs civil servants who can take the “bull by the horn” and move our nation, in leaps and bounds, in a forward momentum, ethically inclined and are not there filling their back pockets.

Our poor, weak and disenfranchised lose and our nation, society and people are that much poor – and left in a heap to fend for themselves.

Seasonal workers 

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

With assuring words of the Government that the devastation of TC Winston reinforced Government’s recruitment focus of overseas workers from the isolated rural and maritime communities, I totally agree with the decision and plead with the people of Lomaiviti to use this opportunity and to register with the ministry.

With the Ministry official calling on to their doorstep, it is an indication how serious the Government is.

The employers on the other side when being advised of the workers are actually victims of TC Winston they would be probably more generous than ever and may allow for more than the actual figures required.

The main purpose of their selection is to return home and rebuild their lives and bring back some happiness into their lives.

A very wise call by the Government of the Day.
US elections

Amenatave Yaconisau,  Suva

The narrow loss of Senator Bernie Sanders to Hilary Clinton as Democratic nominee reflects the little difference in policy platforms.

The platforms of economic changes that creates income equality and new jobs not ones that creates social inequality and economic exploitation.

However, the Democratic party should be careful of defection of disenchanted voters who support Senator Bernie and who will cause trouble and give the Presidency over at the expense of democratic disunity.

They should now concentrate on a common opponent and destroy any party that compromises democratic liberalism.

Let’s keep America the land of the free not of the unwanted.

Go QVS

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,

Canada

Thank you BSP Life Managing Director and Victorian old boy, Malakai Naiyaga, for supporting the QVS Under-14, 15, 17, 18, and 19 rugby teams with a new set of jerseys worn during the Deans quarterfinals (FS 29/7).

Malakai Naiyaga himself was an inspiration in my Mighty Midgets team of 1975, with his brilliant rugby skills and kicking and having a chip from family member Qele Ratu.

To read that all the six teams from QVS have all qualified for this week’s semifinals just makes my day.

The principal of QVS was happy with the BSP Life gift and was hoping that all the six age categories will reach the finals.

All have qualified for the semifinals this week and I believe the Victorian family will be again out in numbers with our school colours in support.

I remember back in 1974, the undefeated QVS Senior team coached by our English teacher, Murray Heastly of New Zealand and captained by Nacanieli Bola, receiving a new set of jerseys for the quarterfinals, which kind of lifted their performance and confidence as a team to another level, winning the Deans Trophy that year.

To all the QVS teams, never say die and give it all you got in the semis this week.

It would be good to see the Deans Trophy take a stroll down from Lodoni to Matavatucou this year.

Go QVS, you can do it!

Taxi meters

Tomasi Boginiso,

Nasinu

The law should very strict on taxi meters to be positioned in a way that is clearly visible to all passengers seated in the front or back seats.

Most of the meters are located almost at knee height of the driver.

Back seat passengers can hardly view the meter. Drivers could even charge the passengers more because it’s hard to view them.

I suggest that they be placed on the dashboard or around the rear view mirror.

Fijian arrow

Timoci Gaunavinaka,

Nausori

In the opening of the Barcelona Olympic game way back in 1992, the last relay runner used the torch to light an arrow placed on the bow of a Spanish archer Antonio Rebollo. Rebollo who 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 if that arrow he shot had missed the torch ?

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 a fake and the torch was lit via remote control.

Today, Fiji has already shot its arrow targeting gold in Rio. It is no fake. We have won the Sevens Rugby world cup twice and are currently the reigning IRB world sevens rugby series champion. We have practiced our moves and game plans a few hundred times. We have scaled the sand dunes and now doing our last preparation in thin oxygen altitude almost 4000 metres 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 will 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 and deserves it.

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

   Frustration on our roads

Phillip Low, Suva

I think the time has come to voice the opinion of many people like myself who have been driving for many of years now (for me its just over 30 years with many a lot longer); who are absolutely sick of the road idiots.

I will state the obvious as  many are oblivious to it!

Pedestrians:

You must all realise by now  that you are not stronger than a moving vehicle. That you are not Thor or Superman or some super hero that can fend off a moving vehicle. You must also realise, that we drivers also do not have super human vision or that of a dog; so that we are able to see you in the dark! You simply cannot walk on dark roads with dark clothing on and expect us to see you,  because by the time we do, it is too late!

Running across busy roads is not only putting yourself at risk but other road users as well. If we have to avoid you, it means running into other vehicles or going off the road which will injure people in those respective vehicles or other pedestrians.

When getting off your bus, have patience!! – let the bus go before even attempting to cross the road. The only reason you want to get across the road quickly is to avoid eye contact with those in the bus. (madua syndrome). So stay put and stay safe!

PSV drivers:

Yes, that means all of you taxi drivers, bus drivers, mini bus drivers and illegal taxi operators, etc. Your total disregard for the laws of the road and total disregard for other road users is what causes traffic jams and accidents. Do you realise, that you all complain about each other and how terrible the other PSV drivers are? Ask any passenger … you all are guilty of being inconsiderate and discourteous on the roads.

Do you also realise that you taxi drivers/mini bus drivers make dangerous turns and sudden stops with dangerous swerving to the side of the road when you spot a passenger? Risking thousands of dollars of damages and your life just for a mere $2-$5  fare? Well you do!

Bus drivers, you rarely use bus stops and choose to risk passengers lives by stopping in danger zones that you are too ignorant to see or even acknowledge. You bus drivers also stop where ever you feel like, with total disregard for other road users. You drive at 15 km along any road trolling for last minute passengers who can jump on at will, after they dangerously run, ducking and dodging through traffic. You are a major contributor to traffic jams in Fiji and putting a lot of passengers at risk. Take responsibility and put a stop to this!

The bottom line is this, you are all arrogant drivers and ignorant to the fact, that there are rules to be followed and obeyed.  You may think that you are the only road user because you spend the majority of your day on the road, but here’s a little insight for you…..We pay our road taxes as well !!!

Retired drivers:

We do know that you deserve the best and all the respect after many years of hard work. However, because you don’t have to be anywhere in a hurry, it doesn’t entitle you to hug the white line and drive at 20km. Its your right to go slow, but move to the side and let us by.

Young drivers:

You have to realise that what you have in your hands is a lethal weapon. Your poor judgement to speed, along with your inability and lack of experience to control this speed, is what’s killing your generation and mine. You may survive a road crash, but think about the possible grief you will bring to the families of the victims you kill – some of them will be your own family members or friends!

Police and LTA drivers:

Ever wonder why there is no respect for the flashing red and blue lights anymore? Because you abuse it and drive around all day with them flashing for no reason. Even I, don’t take much notice of it anymore, because the majority  of the time you are “crying wolf”.You will never see this happening in any other country.

Being full of self importance doesn’t help your cause or gain respect. In fact you lose a lot more.

You in fact, do get more frustrated with this disrespect of your flashing lights.

Respect your position of authority and others will respect you.

All drivers:

Queuing across intersections won’t get you to your destination faster, in fact you create more of a traffic jam and reduce your chances of getting to your destination sooner. Just a little bit of common sense (I am not asking you to hurt yourself to think), but just a bit of common sense goes a long way.

When it’s raining or a getting dark, switch your lights on and be seen! It’s as if you’re afraid that your battery will go flat and your bulbs will burn, if you use them too often!

The important thing is that you will be alive to buy another. Drivers of Fiji what it does come down to is this:

Common sense must be used and it isn’t an optional extra whilst driving, which goes the same for your indicators and lights – USE THEM ALL!

Common Courtesy – giving way to one vehicle won’t delay your journey but in fact speed  it up. Imagine if every single driver gave way at the same time on the same day?

Just simply following the road rules will save everyone’s life, time and money. Speeding and also driving too slow are both dangerous. We all know that speed kills, when in fact it is also proven that you are more likely to cause or be involved in a road accident by driving way below the speed limits. Some countries have now made it illegal to drive too slow.

Remember the worst and the most fatal decisions are always made at intersections. Look, think and be patient.

Pedestrians of Fiji, what it comes down to is this:

The road is not a play ground, teach your children this, teach your co-workers this (As some adults are worse than children).

Hold your children’s hands while walking along the road, they haven’t developed the full awareness of an adult.

Toddlers do not know the roads and its dangers. Parents should be arrested for letting toddlers run freely on the road – unfortunately this is very common scenario in Fiji. Drivers get the blame for your stupidity and pure negligence.

Walk on the side and not on the middle of the road. If you ever notice for some reason or the other, the footpath is rarely used, why?

At night wear light coloured clothes and be seen, use your phone for something useful and switch the light mode on, to show drivers in both directions that you are there.

Intoxication doesn’t make you indestructible, it makes you stupid. Don’t try and take on a moving vehicle when you are drunk, you will lose. So keep your wits about you.

At the end of the day if we all stop being careless, stop being stupid, stop being arrogant and ignorant on our roads, we may actually have a chance of reducing Fiji’s road problems.

If we all start being a bit more courteous, have a bit more patience and use a whole lot more common sense than we could change Fiji back to the old days when we waved at other drivers and not flick them the birdy, as drivers commonly do today.

If this letter gets read by at least 30 per cent of road users and the message clearly understood – we might actually have a chance of changing Fiji roads.

Coke Zero Deans 

Amenatave Yaconisau, Delainavesi

The loss to RKS in that disappointing 2015 final should not keep the Marist brigade down.  They gulped the bait last year and they lost.  It has been distributed again giving praise to the Flagstaff boys and RKS the underdog.  This psychology has started again and we bought it last year hook line and sinker, and we received a see you later.

These are sharp words of praise that are net to our advance and a deadly arrow indeed.  This is an old Fijian trick (veicavilaki) to hype confidence but hidden behind is that enthusiasm to defeat.

We won’t buy it this time around even if you make us God.  One of the greatest Kings in the Bible, David attributed victory and power to the Lord in Chronicle 29(11). For people who know the atmosphere of rivalry and camaraderie of schoolboy’s rugby this is champagne atmosphere especially when the boys of Flagstaff play their mates from Lodoni at this level. May the best win.

VKB

Alisi Waqanika Daurewa,  Suva

The current debate on whether children of iTaukei mothers (vasu) and non-iTaukei fathers should or should not be registered under their mother’s mataqali in the Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB) has always been an on-going issue.

My understanding of the custom of registering the vasu primarily applies to children born out of wedlock regardless of the ethnicity of their biological father.

From observation however, some vasu born in wedlock are also registered under their mother’s clan.

There are even instances of children born out of wedlock registered under their step-father’s clan.

And the reasons for these are best known to the families and/or clans themselves.

Now in going back to the drawing board, it is worth recalling that the VKB which is housed by the iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission and, the iTaukei Land Trust Board were created by the Colonial Government to protect iTaukei land from conniving chiefs and Europeans.

However, despite the presence of these institutions, the iTaukei would be naïve to assume that their land and iqoliqoli are totally protected.

My experience reveal otherwise.

It is now up to the iTaukei to mobilise their wisdom collectively via their various fora to address what they see as threats to losing their heritage. And do something about it!

I for one belong to one of the bigger land owning units in Kadavu Province.  My mataqali land also includes parcels of land in other districts of Kadavu.

There is also one iqoliqoli which sits between two districts from across the island where my village of Natumua sits.

My mataqali however is threatened with extinction if we do not produce more male heirs to continue our lineage.

An obvious option would be to re-visit a past practice of our ancestors where they invited their vasu and kajikaji (anyone with a link to the clan) for the purpose of strengthening their power-base in warfare.

In the present, this could equate to also registering some of our vasu born in wedlock.  Even landless Fijians with some mataqali blood would be a worthy consideration.

Both for the purpose of sustaining our mataqali.

Otherwise, our land and iqoliqoli will be left to the Government’s discretion as an extinct mataqali.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

PM’s crowd

Sukha Singh, Labasa

I would like to thank Surend Lal for replying to my letter on the PM’s visit to Labasa where he states that I was mesmerised by the PM’s visit to Labasa. Later he says no one was interested in the PM’s speech. At least he could have said only Sukha Singh was interested in the PM’s speech.

As for the PM’s magnetism it is growing stronger by the day whether we agree or we don’t.

Responsible citizen

Pranil Ram, Nadi

On Sunday, while making my way to Nadi Town, I saw rubbish lying all over the place.

It was the same place where the Bula Festival had ended the previous night. It was surely an eyesore. I believe everyone has a duty to be a responsible citizen. Unfortunately, not everyone seemed to take this responsibility seriously. As far as I know these are common sights once an event of this nature has ended in our beautiful country.

I also strongly believe that it is also an opportune time for authorities to place bins at appropriate places and display suitable messages. However, I could not see this present anywhere on the ground.

As we all are aware littering is a common problem in Fiji and at times like these it is appropriate for authorities to create greater awareness. Advocating for a pollution-free environment may do no good until we start practising this in our society.

I only wonder when this type of sight will become a thing of the past. In fact, to be a truly responsible citizen sometimes we must go out of our way to do things which help our society by giving a little of our time and effort for the greater good.

New multi specialty hospital

Dr Joel Trazo, Nadera

The Fijian Government is trying their best to improve the country’s health services.

In my opinion, it is about time to plan a Fijian Multi Specialty Hospital and improve and decongest the CWM Hospital in Suva.

At present the hospital is congested not because of its load, it is because of its old structural plan. The front and the back  is always full of cars because it was not designed to  be a big parking lot, although the back has a big space which can easily be refilled for a bigger parking space or add another building to decongest the hospital.

The hallways are narrow, waiting areas are inconvenient. The SOPD waiting area is in the hallway.

The waiting areas are an obstacle in case of an emergency like fire. I’m not sure if they are OHS compliant. Are we ready to have a new multi specialty hospital?

Video ref

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

It was very exciting and interesting to see referees of the Deans quarterfinals at the ANZ stadium referring to the big screen when a decision cannot be made with the touch judges.

It’s not only bringing the game of rugby to another standard but it has reduced tension of school rivalry over decision by referees.

It would not have been the same in the other grounds but as for the main games the tickets were worth every cent paid for it.

With the Churchill Park in Lautoka nearing completion hopefully they will install a big screen for this very purpose.

The rugby crazy ground of Lawaqa Park should have this idea on their minds as well.

As for Saturday quarterfinals it was great to hear the crowd cheer after the outcome was screened and at stages of the game the players were urging the referee for a video replay.

We hope all the best for the players and referees in the future of the game of rugby.

Sugar reform

Timoci Gaunavinaka, Nausori

The current debate on sugar reform amazes me.

It appears that Biman Prasad and Mahendra Chaudhry are both blaming Government for the decline in sugar production suggesting that it is caused by many farmers leaving the industry.

Yet they both agree that the highest cane payment per tonne ever recorded was done by the Bainimarama government between 2008 and 2015.

If the highest price of cane per tonne in the industry’s over 100 years history has been achieved but farmers still choose to leave the industry then this simply suggests that there are better options beside cane farming today that may have not been available to farmers many decades ago.

Look at our Minister for Education for example. He was a son of a cane farmer but has chosen to become an academic then became a parliamentarian and now a Minister.

Are we going to crucify him for failing to follow in his father’s footstep and continue as a cane farmer?

Or are we going to criticise the previous SDL, Labour or SVT governments for not throwing enough incentives then to keep people like Mahendra Reddy to continue planting sugarcane?

To have such expectations defeats all logic and is ridiculous.

The current upsurge in our economy has opened dozens of doors that were closed for many, many decades in various fields of entrepreneurship. Some former cane farmers have followed this path and have thrived.

Because of the policies of the Bainimarama Government, many hardworking children of cane farmers now have easy access to higher education that was not available to them before.

They are no longer denied scholarships just because of their ethnicity. When these children join the workforce and earn decent jobs, many of them would never want to see their father still toiling the land.

This may be seen as a downfall to the sugar industry but it is a plus to our progress as a nation.

To have a sustainable sugar industry does not necessarily mean maximum production. Like any industry, we can triple our current production rate and still collapse or run at a huge loss.

But by increasing the sugar ratio per tonne of cane is undeniably a move in the right direction.

We must always remember that we are competing with countries that plant sugar canes on hundreds of thousands of hectares of flat land with airplanes to spray their farms and machines to harvest and plant their cane. This makes the threshold of sustaining our sugar industry very small.

In light of this factor, it is therefore vital and practical to have a centralised control where the government runs the whole system in harmony instead of having multiple controllers.

Our sugar industry cannot survive if it has a left hand that sometimes does not work in unison with its right hand resulting in huge losses under the pretext of democracy.

Public health hazards 

Christopher Griffin, Perth

Serious matters arising in the international media should be of concern to Fijians.

Three examples: cancer causing asbestos found recently in Australian ceiling panels made in China; the EU’s likely forthcoming ban on glyphosate a cancer-causing pesticide manufactured by Monsanto; the negative environmental legacy left by Australian mining corporations.

Each bears on the long term health and happiness of Fijians.

Some years ago the Fijian press reported asbestos turning up in various local structures, including old water pipes.

Glyphosate which enters the food chain is widely used in Fiji. And Australia’s mining mess sheets back to lax environmental legislation.

Someone, including public authorities and journalists, should investigate.

Inspiring message

Joji Toronibau, Tunuloa

 Viewing Sundays Fiji One news, I was quite mesmerised by what I heard through the news about the nine kilometre road upgrading project in Natewa Bay/Tunuloa area and the Korotasere stretch.

This to us in this neglected stretch, is an inspiring message.

For too long school children had to walk, wade and sail across the seas for education, sick senior citizens to health clinics plus economic trading activities difficult to face daily.

In addition to these, there are no television receptions except if you can purchase Sky TV and no Vodafone/Digicel reception as well.

We deservedly want Police presence as well on wheels at times to lessen illegal activities.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Wonderful improvement

in Fiji roads

Arthur Solomon Meyers, U.S.A .

I am visiting Fiji and especially Suva. I am a recently retired Director of a public library in the U.S.

When I told a friend I would be visiting Fiji, she told me about her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer.  At the time, the roads were terrible.

I am very happy to see the wonderful improvement.

Congratulations for the winning streak- Cuvu College

Rosleen Singh, Cuvu, Sigatoka

I wish to congratulate Cuvu College for winning the Schools Chef Challenge 2016 and making the “Overall Culinary School of the Year” for four years. Hard work pays off.

On behalf of all the parents of Cuvu College, I would like to thank the organisers Shailesh Naidu (executive chef Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and his team), sponsors and the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort management for pioneering and continuing  such exquisite event for the people of Nadroga.

They hosted the Schools Chef Challenge 2016 despite having full  occupancy of guests in the hotel.

They put together an even more grand event on Friday July 22. The competition this year was a tough one because there were schools as far as Lautoka and more Nadi schools participating.

The level of skills displayed by the students made the event a one of a kind.

It was also opened by the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar. Minister for Education Mahendra Reddy later honoured the achievement of students during the awards ceremony.

The type and quality of impressive prizes won by our children and other winners were worth the effort and sacrifices they made and we as parents are very proud of the opportunity to be part of this splendid life changing event.

Special thanks to the Principal of Cuvu College Navneet Deepak Mishra, management and staff, head of department, Home Economics Artika Sharma and Radhika Kumar.

These teachers gave their time and effort preparing students to display their best performance on this immense occasion and making it possible for Cuvu College to bring victory home.

Hearty thanks to the participating students for giving their fullest effort for this challenge. You all made the Cuvu Community proud. Thank you all.

7s final journey!

Epeli Rabua, Suva

As Ben ‘the Lion’ Ryan, and his kinsman Cracknell, finish off the final touches to the tactics the respective Fijian Sevens womens and mens teams will be displaying in Rio, the World watches in anticipation for the fireworks which will literally light up the 2016 Olympics on the 7s field.

The two Englishmen, like their King of old – have trained their own team of knights to the very highest level of fitness that an athlete could achieve, taught them that the mind is more  powerful than matter and instilled in them the discipline necessary to be an Olympian.

Laying over and planning the final touches to achieve success in Santiago, prior to overcoming what your opponents have in store for you is a masterstroke.

The two teams in a short period, have reinforced the fact that we Fijians, play an instinctive 7s game.

Together with the belief that they ‘can do all things through their Christ who strengthens them’, have encouraged the teams fortitude to achieve success at the greatest sporting show on earth – the Olympics!

Being poor economically has never fazed our knights who are wealthy in talent and know that this opportunity to be an Olympic champion might never come again.

Both teams are happy to be where they are right now. They are ready to create their own success.

Fiji – We Believe We Will Win!!!

Road marking

Sachida Rao, Nausori

Land Transport Authority has time and again requested for the support of the general public to eradicate or curtail the infringements of road and traffic laws.

Yes, I fully agree the general  public  is indebted to come forward and support the LTA and Fiji Roads Authority.

Here is an observation about the road marking on Milverton Road, sloping down from  Rewa Street and as far as Raiwai junction. This portion of the road has blind bends, yet the road marking indicates disjointed lines.

I suppose a vehicle can overtake but it is extremely dangerous to attempt.

The blind bends and the incline are not negotiable for overtake.

I am raising this concern, because a vehicle almost collided head-on after over-taking. Thanks to the almighty and   the brakes of my car otherwise there would have been an increase in the road fatality statistics.

Maybe, providing this piece of information or similar type of information to FRA will be considered   as a form of support the authorities need.

Could the authorities have a visit to the site and clarify. I might be misinterpreting the road marking.

Road rage

Neelz Singh, Lami

What is Road Rage?

Road rage is defined as an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle or an assault precipitated by an incident that occurred on a roadway.

What is Aggressive Driving?

Aggressive driving is when an individual commits a combination of traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.

Both are common in Fiji and a major fact faced by LTA. What can they do to minimise such a risk, remains a question?

Individual choice

Kirti Patel, Lautoka

Who has the rights to tell people whether to read The Fiji Times or Fiji Sun?

Whatever people prefer, they can read in terms of news. It’s about the individual choice.

There are many who prefer both  newspapers. Please be neutral.

Private sector

Fulori Turaga, Suva

I thought the discussions would have been more constructive and productive if a representative from the private sector was present at the Parliament Speaker’s Debate held on Monday at the GPH in Suva.

Their (private sector) response to statements made by the Consumer Council of Fiji’s chief executive officer, would have been very interesting, especially on the issue of the private sector being corporate citizens only when there is praise and visibility.

Technology and dreams

Floyd Robinson, Suva

With the availability of science and technology, dreams can come true regardless of age. At 63, a lady from Adelaide in Australia has recently given birth to baby girl.

Definitely a topic that will trigger many discussions and talanoa sessions.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Never give up!

Isireli Bolaniveimau,  Lautoka

During one of Ben Ryan’s interview, he explicitly regarded Waisale Serevi and Vunibaka as his two favorable and stalwart players in view of their playing days in the abbreviated seven’s code.

On the benefit of hindsight the duo alongside with Viliame Satala, Filimoni Delasau, and other sevens sensations knew truly well that prior to the lifting the Melrose cup or similar apex cup that they had to be fully committed and maintain a 100 per cent fitness as no pain no gain.

Perhaps more than any other leader in the 20th century, Winston Churchill rallied the British nation to believe in what it could do. His words during World War II galvanised a nation and made them believe they could overcome.

As I paraphrased questions and answers, Churchill remarkable answers positively with concrete answers to the point of no retreat, no surrender:

“You ask what our policy is? I will say it is to wage war, by sea, land and air with all our might and all the strength that God can give us”.

“You ask what is our aim? I can answer in one word : Victory! at all cost. Victory! Inspite of all terror, Victory! however long and hard the road may be, for without victory there is no survival”.

In a nutshell, to Mr Ryan and our sevens champions Never! Never! Never Give up!! (Deut 31:8)

RFNS ‘Kiro’

Joape Banuve, Natabua

The grounding of the RFNS Kiro on Cakauyawa Reef near Makuluva Island, has brought a lot of amazement to me as a citizen. I am amazed in a sense that this is not just any ordinary ship; it belongs to the Republic of Fiji Navy.

Any ordinary Fijian can imagine what a naval ship should look like and should contain, right.

But how can a ship that should have the best of navigation systems end up on that particular reef?

Together with well trained men who are conditioned to any form of mishaps unable to avoid the incident.

What had amazed me at first were the thoughts of the Bermuda Triangle.

I felt suspicious at first then dropped the subject at an instant because it had turned too fictitious as I thought of it.

I say that this is to be no incident or triangle sort of magnetic forces. But it points to ancestors and those in control of this stretch of waters or i-qoliqoli.

Our tradition and cultural values are often ignored and we prefer the law to be more superior than our own culture.

Fiji is what I might think to be an island nation with many values and traditional customs.

I fear most are dying out. Greed has often influenced the value of our customs that we begin to disrespect our own culture.

I think that authorities play an important role in this problem as it may have an effect on the marine life in this particular water. Perhaps look into the matter seriously and present a ‘sevusevu’ to the vanua then you’ll find the same naval ship.

Red Fire

Wise Muavono, Lautoka

If you’re approaching Marist Brothers High School and all of a sudden you’re feeling warm, balmy and sweaty, that has nothing to do with the weather. You’re feeling the heat from the Marist Deans rugby squad. Red Fire.

Nasinu U18 written off

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

It has been predicted the either Marist Brothers High School, Queen Victoria School or Ratu Kadavulevu School Under 18 rugby team will become the Deans Champion and Nasinu Secondary is out of the picture.

My prediction is do not write Nasinu off yet. They went in last week’s  quarterfinals as underdog and everyone was on Cuvu’s side.

With enormous support of the school , parents, old scholars and their associates Nasinu is not going off without a fight.

Nasinu is prepared to do its utmost best and one would say in comparing the Bible version of David and Goliath they are preparing spiritually, physically and mentally. Nasinu believes anything possible.

Don’t be surprised with what Nasinu will show in Lawaqa Park on Saturday and with the whole school  out there on Saturday don’t be surprised what the outcome maybe.

Wish Nasinu all the best for the game and may the force of our Almighty Father be with you all the way.

Footballs golden era

Pranil Ram, Nadi

Fijian Football is going through a golden era. Participating in FIFA under 20 World Cup last year and taking part in this year’s Olympics is an achievement of the biggest scale. Olympic is a showpiece event in the world. It’s a dream for any athlete to participate in Olympics, leave aside winning a medal.

It’s already history for the players and the nation as a whole and I am sure this will remain in the memories of all Fijians.

While some may call this as one of the biggest mismatches in sports of recent times but I am sure the players will rise up to this challenge.

It is very important for the team to stay focussed, deal with setbacks, move on, become stronger and work harder each time they play.

It is also a good time for reality check.

We must salute, applaud and keep the players in our prayers as they ready to mix it up with the best in the world.

Tourism land development

Joe Smith,  Deuba

I had a chat with a participant of a real estate seminar held at Novotel and we were both amazed at tourism development potentials particularly at the Western Division of Viti levu.

Since prime freehold coastal lands  have all been occupied, I would  suggest    iTaukei Land Trust Board  management promote attractive lands along beach areas and further encourage our  thriving tourism  industry.

I understand TLTB has a tourism section that co-ordinates land zoning matters and ensures 99 year tourism leases are issued.

Buses on roads

Arien Vikash Kumar, Nadi

Instead of putting cones , blocking roads or hiding in driveways or behind FEA poles with the speed radar and booking drivers/vehicles breaking traffic laws, could the LTA and Police Traffic Officers patrol the highways and book the careless bus drivers on our road.

I can bet that they (LTA/Police) might be surprised with the number of tickets issued to “bus drivers” for improper parking of the bus along highways while picking or dropping passengers.

Some bus drivers have no road courtesy, they just stop anywhere in the middle of the road blocking others. They hardly use indicators while pulling in or out of the road, they even block some of the vehicles parked assuming others drivers are picking their route passengers.

Many might agree with me how careless some bus drivers on road are which poses high risk to innocent lives.

Could the LTA please educate the bus drivers of where? and how? they should stop or park when picking/dropping passengers, before they (drivers) are issued with the PSV license.

Otherwise it’s no use booking or suspending driving licenses later after damages are being done and innocent lives are lost, rather than addressing these offenders (now) driving right under their nose on public roads.

Maintenance fees

Sukha Singh, Labasa

I would like the banks to explain why they charge a maintenance fee of $2   and an electronic transfer fee of $2.80 with every transaction.

With the ATM and internet banking the banks are employing less tellers than when we had  with manual banking and when we had pass books.

How much does an email cost?

If the bank wants to carry out monthly or weekly maintenance on bank accounts it should do it on its own costs.

I hope the Minister of Economy should look into these unnecessary maintenance and transfer fees as both the Fiji Commerce Commission and Consumer Council can’t do much.

I have written on the subject before had asked them to look into this matter.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Football humiliation

Nilesh Lal,Suva

As had been expressed before, Fijian football coach Frank Farina did not select the best team possible to represent Fiji at the Rio Olympics, which makes it even more difficult to accept the humiliating defeat to South Korea yesterday.

As we saw, Fiji’s defence lacked any credibility and had it not been for the stellar performance of goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau, the score would have been even worse. When the best U23 defenders are left out of selection, and players like Fiji’s best defender Taniela Waqa and his protege Manasa Levaci are not considered then such a dysfunctional defence was to be expected.

This was an opportunity of a lifetime for Fiji gifted to us by Vanuatu, and it’s a pity that our football politics prevented us from taking our best possible team to compete at the highest levels of football.

With the abysmal state of football development in our country, we will probably never get to witness Fijian football in Olympics in our lifetimes again.

Vehicle headlights

Satish Nakched,

Suva

It is a common experience while walking at night or even driving that we encounter the drivers of vehicles coming in the opposite direction not dipping their headlights.

This is the basic skills of a competence drivers and failure to adhere to such rules contributes to the attitude of that person.

Full beam headlights or main beam headlights, as they are also known, are positioned or angled so to provide the driver with as much illumination of the road ahead as possible and this becomes a hazard for the oncoming traffic and the pedestrians alike.

High beam headlights are angled higher than dipped for a better coverage.

As a result, full beams will therefore shine directly on the eyes of drivers of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians causing significant road blindness and dazzle, which is of course dangerous because they cannot see where they are going.

Following behind another vehicle on full beam can cause accidents also.

Full beam headlights should not be used where they may dazzle another motorist, cyclist or pedestrian and instead dipped headlights must be used.

Some of the vehicle owners have tampered with the headlight angle and the dip position of the headlight is slightly elevated which contributes to risky driving.

On our roads we encounter this problem and it is a high risk for the pedestrians at night. There is no consideration or any care displayed by some.

The vehicle owners and the drivers need to be more responsible on our roads to ensure safety for all users.

Balanced sevens mindset

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,

Delta, BC, Canada

As we continue to count sleep anticipating our first ever gold medal in the history of the Olympic Games, we should also consider to mentally train our minds to accept the unexpected which has been the trademark of the game of 7s rugby.

While we Fijians have high hopes and faith that our Vodafone Fiji 7s team have done the hard yards and we expect our first ever gold medal in the Rio Summer Olympic Games; let us not forget that anything can happen in 14 minutes.

All the participating 7s teams are aiming for the gold medal, have made their preparations as well and sending the best of the best they have.

We can only support and pray for our Vodafone Fiji 7s team to be in a positive balanced mindset, remember their game plan and enjoy themselves doing what they do best.       Our Prime Minister is out there in Rio and we all hope and pray that coach Ben Ryan and the boys will indeed create history for Fiji by winning gold and putting us as the number one sevens rugby playing country in the world.

Even Sonny Bill Williams said that winning an Olympic gold medal in 7s rugby is more prestigious than New Zealand winning the Rugby World Cup.

For us diehard Fijian fans, we also need to have a balanced sevens mindset; let us claim by faith the victory and the gold medal and jump for joy bringing the roof down if our expectation becomes reality.

But at the same time, let us expect that a better team may just break our hearts as common in the game of 7s, so that no curses, heart attacks or mysterious flying objects invade the air when the unexpected happens.

This way, we would not be needing more experienced counsellors as suggested by Brother Gabe Simpson.
For the time being, it is go for Gold Fiji!

Deans semifinal

Amenatave Yaconisau,

Suva

As the sun settles today, we shall see which side God favours in the game between RKS and Marist in Lawaqa.  Both have put in the hard yards.

The boys from Flagstaff have worked hard and laboured for victory in the week and they now have a fair idea of the right combination of the team that will do the job.

They won’t let the memories of last year’s defeat pull them down.

Barring any other factors let the best team win.

Go the Red, conquer!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Littering

Hans B. Boernke, Savusavu

Again we read in the dailies what mess people leave behind after an official function.

It seems to me that stopping littering is almost impossible, but at least we can minimise it and try and try, and never give up.

People usually are fed up of being told what to do in a way of “don’t do this, don’t do that” and then threatened with a hefty fine.

Anti litter signs are no different and the latest from the Ministry of Environment speaks for itself. It reads: “Do the right thing, put the rubbish in the bin” and then threatens with a hefty fine.

A more positive approach might work better so I searched online for an alternative.

The one I have attached (see top photo) starts with a nice “thank you” so I gave some copies to our town council for distribution.

I wonder if the Fiji Sun can find some “empty” corners on a few pages and invite people to take part this way.

Underground cabling

Arien V Kumar,  Nadi

Apart from the Fiji Electricity Authority (FEA) or Ministry of Infrastructure, probably nobody knows or could give the actual cost of repairing the power lines damaged by Cyclone Winston.

Our nation and FEA suffered a huge loss trying to fix the damaged power lines, posts, transformers, etc.

FEA workers, sub-contractors and many had to work day and night to get the nation and its people out of the darkness caused by Winston. Perhaps some are still in the dark and waiting.

What if another natural monster, like Winston (Category 4 or 5), enters Fijian waters and land next year or after?

Are we prepared enough to stand, survive or sustain the loss again? Millions and millions?

Will our neighbours (other nations) once again show the same love, support and mercy?

The time has come for us and our nation to be proactive.

Therefore “Underground Cabling” is the best solution.

A number of roads are under construction or going through major maintenance, so now is the best time FEA should start laying its cable underground.

Hope it’s done in Namaka – Martintar with the four-lane road.

If we cry that it’s a costly affair as we are still struggling to survive the blow from Winston, then we should laugh loud come another Category Five cyclone next year.

Digicel’s set top box

Bob Kishore,  Nakasi

First it was a procurement of the Sky Pacific with lots of promises. Then came the increase in subscriptions which will now be pre 9 per cent VAT price.

Where is the reduction in VAT as per the Government’s new budget announcement? Now comes the new set top box at a cost of $149 for existing customers.

This, for even those who are customers of Sky Pacific since its establishment.

I luminously remember when Sky Pacific announced the change of the set top box. We were all told to come in with our old set top boxes and exchange it with a new one, and that too “FREE OF CHARGE”.

During Sky Pacific’s era, new connection was a merely $99 with two months free subscription, however now its $199 plus another $49.95 for new connections.

I lodged a complaint back in March for interrupted service, nothing and no one to the rescue till now, but payment was demanded via phone calls and email bills. I think I have already paid the $149.00 without even viewing in the last months. What do I do now, beg, borrow or steal?

One thing is for sure, ‘One who handles the rope knows for sure where, how and when to graze the cow because they very well know that milk is in great demand’.

Baby holders will eventually buy.

Sand dunes fitness

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,  Canada

Our Fiji national soccer team lost 8-0 to Korea Republic in their first pool game at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games.

It was 1-0 at half time and the second half is where the Fiji team’s stamina, fitness and concentration was tested.

Up next is Mexico and Germany, two soccer crazy countries and I do hope our boys will keep the score at bay.

Reading the news report kind of reminded me of the Sigatoka sand dunes; our Fiji teams should make use of this natural training ground to lift their fitness levels, just like our Vodafone Fiji 7s players.

We all know that when we get puffed out, our performance and concentration level drops.

It is our first performance in the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics and the lesson we should learn is that at that level of competition.

A sand dune fitness is required, on top of all our individual skills and brilliance.

Scholarships

Tukai Lagonilakeba,  Nadi

Our many young Fijian children have now materialised with their childhood dreams to further their respective desires in fields they most likely will excel in.

Many of these programmes are not available here and are just simply unaffordable to a simple Fijian family, which most of these kids come from.

I do hope that our education reformist, Mahendra Reddy, can look into these specialised areas and introduce it here at the Fiji National University (FNU) to complement the Avionics and Aircraft Engineering programme already on offer at the Namaka Campus.

These children have passed their Year 7 results with exceptional marks to qualify themselves for five years in the 12 only places offered by the Chinese government for scholarships to study in some of the world’s biggest and better well known specialised universities.

Our future generations will all benefit from these bilateral agreements with China. They will all become great productive Fijians in whatever career path they choose which our country will no doubt benefit from.

China is a world authority in the fast changing world of technology one can name and our children are very fortunate to be eligible on this excellent opportunity on offer.

This is a credit to all their lovely parents for the great upbringing and excellent parenting roles they have played, very proud parents indeed from the fruits of their sacrifice and labour. I do hope this will motivate other parents and our progressing school children to excel and challenge themselves irrespective of which school you attend.

Thank you to the FijiFirst government and its leader, Voreqe Bainimarama, for maintaining and respecting the friendship and sovereignty of China. They are indeed a true and great ally.

China, Japan, Russia, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Suid Africa, France, South Korea and the UAE States are some of Fiji’s best friends that have a lot to offer to our young democracy and its development.

Don’t forget to say vinaka vakalevu to both our great neighbours and enemies on the rugby paddock in the NZ and Australian government too for their many wonderful contributions to Fiji, past and present.

Football

Amrita Sharma,  Nasinu

Congrats and hats off to South Korean football team and nothing can be taken away from our boys. We are the lucky ones to be part of the 2016  Rio Olympics.

We and the boys will enjoy and have the feel of professional football on New Zealand administrative blunder. Go, Fiji go!

Fiji football

Ashneel J Prasad,  New Zealand

To whoever said Fiji soccer is improving, well, South Korea just proved you wrong.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Go QVS

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,

Canada

The Victorian family in Fiji and abroad is happy that five teams from Queen Victoria School, from  Under 14 to U18 are in the Coke Zero Deans finals this week.

The Deans U18 final between QVS and MBHS should be a cracker as the Red Fire squad will be burning hot to make amends for last year and stop their very long Deans Trophy drought.

To the boys from Vulinitu, you did it last week and if you remain confident in Him, you can do it again!

Go QVS.

Anything is possible

Tukai Lagonilakeba,

Nadi

You have got to want a win with a gold medal so badly, you have got to have your mind set right, all our Fijian athletes together with our 7s rugby teams and soccer have all been proven fit, ready and prepared, showcase and display their talent in representing the country at the world’s biggest sporting event, the Olympics in Rio.

They all aspire and pray God willing some of them will create surprises and bring a medal back home for all expectant Fijians to celebrate and remember for the many years to come at the same time setting a challenge for our future Olympians to go a notch up from which our government has provided the incentives for such and the grand official opening has set the platform for all to witness an equal playing field for our athletes to prove themselves to the world.

The individual stories depicted from the 2016 from the Rio de Janeiro Olympics official opening show is one of multiracialism with its multicultural society successfully living side by side in harmony through diversity.

These proud Brazilians have together built their great nation and economy for all who call it home to enjoy.

I feel our country and all Fijians alike can certainly take a leaf or two out this beautiful nation’s progress in relations to our 2013 constitution.

Very professionally choreographed with perfect synchronization their artistic creations of a display aided with very advanced technology, its fantastic super climate change display is a stark reminder to its reality and we do hope the world and its superpowers are getting the message.

Go Team Fiji; to be there alone as an athlete is a credit and an experience to behold in itself, a medal or no medal you are all setting the bar.

Go get it team Fiji, anything is possible.

Blame it on the rain

Dr Sushil K. Sharma ,

Lautoka

It would appear that the only thing Vili Yaranamua thought when he heard this song being played at the ANZ arena when he was buying his ticket (FS 31/07/16) was the rain in Suva on that day and a thought for the forthcoming Hibiscus, wishing people would not to blame the rain again, as it did last year at the foreshore.

However besides the great lyrics and the medley of beautiful R and B music associated with this song there is a great story of deceit, rags to riches to rags again, famous to dishonour,  the cut throat exploitation of the music industry and also the death of famous musicians at a young age.

Milli Vanilli to whom the two very popular and famous songs “Blame it on the rain” and “Girl you know it’s true”  is attributed never in fact sang any of the songs.

Instead they were contracted and duped a cruel agent to lip sing it instead. Unable to extricate from the contracts, and finding new fame, the pair continued to lip-sing the songs as pre-recorded and finished for them.

Contemporary R&B, also known as simply R&B, is a music genre that combines elements of rhythm and blues, soul, funk, pop, hip hop and dance according to Wikipedia and the genre features a distinctive record production style, drum machine-backed rhythms, an occasional saxophone-laced beat to give a jazz feel (mostly common in contemporary R&B songs prior to the year 1995) and a smooth, lush style of vocal arrangement.

Vanilli was a German R and B singer from Munich. The group was founded by Frank Farian in 1988 and consisted of Fab Morvan and Rob Pilatus.

Frank Farian felt that no efforts should be focused on refining Pilatus and Morvan’s voices. Farian added his own studio-augmented voice to recordings, using back-up singers to hide the other two members’ voices live.

In 2011 Morvan claimed that Farian manipulated the two by giving them a small advance when he signed them. The pair spent most of it on clothes and hairstyling, then several months later Farian called them back and told them they had to lip sync to the pre-recorded music or, per the contract, repay the advance in full.

“We were not hired, we were trapped” Morvan recalled.

The group’s debut album “Girl You Know It’s True” achieved international success and earned them a Grammy Award for Best New Artist on February 21, 1990.

Vanilli became one of the most popular pop acts in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Their success quickly turned to infamy when Morvan, Pilatus and their agent Sergio Vendero confessed that Morvan and Pilatus did not actually sing any of the vocals heard on the record.

The pair decided to return the Grammy awards and asked they be given to the real vocalists. The group recorded a comeback album in 1998, but Pilatus died before the album was released.

Thus when Mr Yaranamua heard the song at the ANZ stadium, it surely would have brought about goose bumps to those familiar with the Vanilli saga.

Whatever the case people loved the duo and admired their abilities and antiques, and till today still associate the songs to the lip-sync duo artists, rather than the real singers.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Traditional medicine

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

Finally, our traditional iTaukei ‘liga ni wai’ medicine makers can now breathe a sigh of relief after the Government announced it is working through the Ministry of Health to get them recognised.

India, China, Japan, Philippines, Thailand and South Korea, to name a few countries, are world authorities in traditional medicines or alternative medicines.

There must be something unique they possess and God-given instinct with their ability to distinguish which herb is applicable to what illness. It’s an amazing feat unmatched when we compare them to modern medicines, which are scientifically proven.

Fiji and its neighbouring countries are no exception to the same application and I personally feel that modern medicine have made a mockery and corrupted the human anatomy.

Traditional medicine is made from leaves, barks, nuts, fruits, roots, flowers, salt water or with natural spring water. I am of the opinion that these herbs are better absorbed by the body, friendly and are also excellent source of protein and vitamins from nature, but less harmful.

To achieve long life in today’s era with its lifestyle one will need to look to modern medicine, but our age life expectancy keeps dropping. Our ancestors’ life span was more than one hundred years old through the use of traditional medicine, but I know many practicing medical doctors today will disagree with my 50 cents input. How about the combination of both for treatment?

Those world renowned authorities on alternative medicines must be roped in to assist our small island nations test the effectiveness of these medicines scientifically and regulate them.

Driving licence scam

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,  Canada

Wow, no wonder we are getting a lot of arrogant drivers on our roads, resulting in road accidents and deaths.

The Land Transport Authority allegedly has corrupt officers giving out driving licence to those who are willing to pay more (FS 8/8).

If this is true, then those involved should face the full brunt of the law.

Fiji football

Nilesh Lal,  Suva

When Fiji football captain Roy Krishna scored in the 10th minute against Mexico, we began fancying our chances of a historic victory in an Olympic football match.

Krishna proved why he is Fiji’s best football er ever yet again by putting Fiji on the scoreboard despite very little possession upfront.

The forwards did their part and the responsibility shifted to the midfield and defence to maintain the lead. However as expected, the dysfunctional defence let in very soft goals resulting in a final score of 5-1, which failed to restore any credibility to the Fijian side in Olympics football.

The defence is definitely not reflective of the capability at U23 level that we have in Fiji. The coach and selectors need to account for the selection decisions which have been questioned on social media and in other circles even before the games.

Secondly, the lack of fitness stands out like a sour thumb from the two games so far with the team conceding all their goals in the last quarter of the game.

Whilst Frank Farina and others can provide excuses for our lack of technical ability, there can be no acceptable excuses for the lack of fitness.

We might not be the best technically but we could have been up to par in terms of fitness. Farina needs to be questioned about the fitness regime that he put in place for the team, if there was any.

While Ben Ryan and his team were doing the hard yards at the sand dunes, how the football team was preparing is anybody’s guess.

It is very apparent that Fiji team officials and the Fiji FA management recklessly failed to adequately prepare the national side for world class competition, and brought a lot of embarrassment to the country, and they need to answer for that.

Deans result

Amenatave Yaconisau,  Suva

‘Be modest in victory’ is the good old spirit of the ‘Red Fire’ sports, whatever it may be.

That was evident after the game at Lawaqa Park as old warhorse, RKS, went down like a true champion.  Marist finally got its pound of flesh.

I’m sure the ‘Red Fire’ squad has gained new insights from that hard earned victory to give them a good standing against champions QVS.

They have achieved something at least against a fired up RKS, but the wet conditions did not favour the herons of Delainakaikai.

One can’t change the weather but play with it and that was what Marist did with its high kicks that paid dividends. Despite a last minute effort to rally attack it didn’t change the tide.

We don’t have to seek the assistance of horoscopes and fortune tellers, the figures tell us that QVS will give it their best shot. God certainly helps those who help themselves and sure both sides have done the hard yards, but Marist has to improve on their tactical kicks and use hard earned possession instead of giving it away.

Definitely the Marist front row was menacing stirring up so much aggression and power in their pack and that may do the damage in their game against the boys from Vulinitu who can easily be provoked to derail them from concentration.

This elimination reminds me of those gangster movies where only the boss ringleader is finally left to face the good blokes.

Be that as it may King David’s words in 1Chronicle 29 will always ring true that in God’s hand are strength and power.

Go the Reds, conquer on.

Winston and Rio

Ashneel J Prasad,  New Zealand

Winston nearly annihilated Fiji earlier this year yet the Prime Minister still found an excuse to get prime tickets to the Rio Olympics opening ceremony?

I wonder if the trip is funded by taxpayers’ money or was it shelled out from the PM’s own pocket?

Raymond Stodart

Sukha Singh,  Labasa

Fiji Football Association would do itself and Fiji soccer a great favour if they could get Raymond Stodart on their technical team.

He can do a lot of good for Fiji soccer.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Meeting probe

Abendra Ram Tahal, California, USA

The Attorney-General’s office should hold full and thorough probe into the recent meeting held by the SODELPA Leader, Sitiveni Rabuka, in Imanueli Methodist Church in Nadera.

Sitiveni held the meeting as the SODELPA party leader’s capacity yet he claims the meeting was in regard to thanksgiving services.

Sitiveni, being the leader of a political party, should very well know that all political parties, including FijiFirst, SODELPA, NFP, Labour, etc are prohibited from conducting any kind of meetings in the name of political parties in any religious places like churches, mosque and temples under the law.

The Attorney-General’s office should investigate if any laws were broken and more so if the SODELPA party’s name was mentioned in the meeting then the violation was already committed and appropriate action should be taken against Sitiveni and the party. Also the authorities should check if Sitiveni had the proper permit to hold the meeting.

Like any democratic nation state and religion are totally independent and hence Sitiveni should be dismissed by the electoral commission as he still claims that he is Methodist Church lay preacher.

Our Prime Minister, Mr Bainimarama is trying his best to eliminate the racial and discriminatory policies of the past governments.

The Attorney-General’s office should also interview and investigate SODELPA senior members and opposition MPs Aseri Radrodro, Salote Radrodro, Ratu Sela Nanovo and Mikaele Leawere who attended the meeting.

The president of the Methodist Church in Fiji, Reverend Tevita Banivanua, is wrong in saying that lay preachers were allowed to be involved in politics.

Fijian umbrella

Arien Vikash Kumar,  Nadi

Colourful umbrellas are common eye-catchers during rainy days.

People on streets, roads, to schools, work, etc are usually seen with umbrellas of all sorts and make.

Wouldn’t it be nice to see an umbrella or umbrellas with the “Fijian Jersey Print” on it moving up and down on rainy days?

We have seen Jerseys, Tee-shirts (Fijian prints) hanging in shops or being worn by many, but how about an umbrella with such print?

I bet this could have been the best time for it as Team Fiji is out competing for gold in Rio and it’s raining here in Fiji.

Some would prefer buying and keeping it safe despite getting wet.

We could also sell it across as Fijian made products.

Fiji football

Narayan Reddy,  Lautoka

It seems to me that Fiji Soccer has the same old problem of playing 90 minutes of soccer. With goals scored against Fiji in second half only questions the fitness level of some players.

Fiji Sports Council

Tukai Lagonilakeba,  Lautoka

The Fiji Sports Council’s announcement to go ahead and draw up a development master plan for their property on Laucala Bay is a welcomed empowered initiative and visionary from its chief executive, Litia Loabuka, and Peter Mazey.

To outsource its financing to run it privately as a business without any government input must be commended as well because it is futuristic and prudent to implement their project so that Fiji can attract international teams and tournaments to our shores.

I can foresee its appreciation and long term impact on our national economy and Fijians.

I would like to recommend the Fijian Holdings CEO and its Board of Directors or the Lau Provincial Council to engage and collaborate with the Fiji Sports Council in a joint venture partnership 100 per cent Fijian owned company whereby all its stakeholders will benefit greatly from this big investment and project.

Our country badly needs a one stop shop concept international standard upmarket sporting infrastructure to attract tournaments of international status and specifically upfront for contention is the World Rugby 7s series we so badly want to bring home, but we lack such facilities to complement our ANZ Stadium, Aquatic Centre with the Vodafone Arena.

It’s a business and will certainly work very well for our economy and we don’t have to look far but learn from the Rio Olympics experience in hosting the world’s biggest sporting event through its upmarket Village accommodations, gym, restaurants, public convenience facilities, different sports stadiums, car parks, sports health facilities, shopping mall, security with international standard hotels such as the Grand Pacific Hotel, Holiday Inn, Peninsula Hotel, The Pearl Pacific Harbour with Taunovo Bay Resort for quality accommodation and the list goes on.

Already in place is the national swimming facility at the Aquatic Centre, Olympic pool, the FMF gymnasium, the Vodafone Arena indoor sporting facility and the ANZ Stadium. There is McDonald’s and the Damodar City right next door to add value and complement our Sports Council’s vision and concept.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama’s Rio visit will bring back with him many ideas for the Fiji Sports Council overall proposed conceptual master plan, and it could not have come at a better time.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Sevens discipline

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

Well well well, so far so good for our gladiators. They endured a poor start against Brazil and overcame a spirited Argentina to conclude Day 1 on a high.

However it doesn’t get any easier tomorrow. The boys need to maintain discipline and keep their emotions in check if we are to clip the wings of the high flying Americans.

The productivity question

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

Did productivity and service temporarily stop around 9:30am on yesterday? A number offices had TV screens on as Fiji took on Argentina in an all-important clash. It definitely left some clients frustrated especially those wanting service urgently. Fortunately, it was only for a few minutes and the Olympics comes around once every four years.

Intervention

Rajesh Lal,  Labasa

I refer to the comments made by the coach Frank Farina as saying ‘Farina is proud of his players achievements at the Rio Olympic Games.’ Is Frank Farina trying to fool the die hard soccer fans of this nation? What improvement did his players make with the Mexican team?

They were flying high only for forty five minutes but what happened in the second half? A total whitewash!

This only concludes one thing that Fiji soccer team was never ready physically and mentally for this tournament.

What would be the result against Germany has already been stored in the minds of soccer loving fans.

I believe it’s time the sports ministry intervened and do what was done with the Fiji Rugby Union.

Reef sunken vessel

Saimoni Lutu,  Namosi

Was surprised to hear that the cost of raising the sunken MV Suliven would be in the vicinity of $20 million.

A better solution would be to ‘reef’ the vessel by leaving the wreck undisturbed as is to allow fish populations to evolve and prosper.

Apart from saving this large amount of money, undesirable pollution from carbon dioxide from diesel heavy lifts would be avoided. For your information this technology is popular in the Gulf of Mexico for recycling old and surplus oil drilling rigs.

Good weather

Wise Muavono,  Lautoka

John Ruskin once wrote, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.”

I’ve been so happy for the last few mornings waking up to the sound of continuous rain. It has been a while since we had this much rainfall, especially after the hot and humid weather experienced throughout the West.

To celebrate, I wanted to run outside…to rain bath but I’ll just wait till our Fiji 7s warriors win gold. Areh! Go Fiji go!

Church assistance

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa,  Canada

All churches and religions in Fiji should consider and copy the Jehovah’s Witnesses plans to assist their members in Central, Eastern and Western divisions who lost their homes and other properties during Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.

A team of 25 volunteers, comprising of qualified builders from Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Vanuatu with some local helpers will construct prefab homes which will be trucked to the different building sites.

Imagine if all the mainline churches and religions in Fiji do the same?

Our road to recovery in rebuilding damaged and destroyed homes in Fiji would be completed in double quick time, with Government assisting this programme and dealing alone with those not affiliated to any church or religion.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Greatest escape

Shad Alfaz Ali,

Navua.

It was amazing how our 7s boys executed the greatest escaping act amidst the high dramas unfolding at Deodoro Stadium, Brazil.

We have been tested right from the first game and here we are, just two games away from creating the greatest sporting frenzy in the history of Fiji.

We can smell the gold, but we still have to negotiate the highly unpredictable Japanese side and the enterprising Springboks if they can overcome Great Britain in the semifinals.

I am counting on Ben and the boys to rise up to the challenge at the business end of the campaign and write a sporting history that will forever remain in the hearts of the rugby loving Fijians.

Being committed

Wise Muavono,

Lautoka

Some die hard Fijian 7s fans have refrain themselves from drinking kava or alcohol until after the gold medal 7s tournament final on Friday morning at Deodoro Stadium, Brazil.

Now that is what I call being committed to the cause. Areh, Go Fiji go.

Rio win

Kirti Patel,

Lautoka

Congratulations to our heroes for winning all their games so far. Though with a few bit of hiccups, they did well.

Heart throbbing games indeed.

Feels great to be in a position to get a victory over the All Blacks.

Our team is doing well so far and just hoping for the best in the coming events.

Thank you to the hero with red hair. You the man.

We are so proud of you. We do realise anything can happen even at the last minute or  at the last games, but our support continues  and is always there.

We are, as usual, right behind you. Hopes are very high for the gold, however it’s better to be prepared should we don’t get through.

To our boys, you are superb. Keep moving forward with the same determination and just keep in mind we are right behind you no matter what.

To our coach Ben Ryan, we are prepared for both, the win or loss, but the hope is always there and we can feel the positive vibes.

This is the actual moment to make a difference for all the hard work is shining. This is the time to play your hearts out.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed with Japan for tomorrow. Just keep thrilled with the positive vibes. Thank you and Go Fiji Go.

Upgrade it

Suresh Chand,

Nadi

If your town has a stadium, it is probably one of the best attractions. Municipalities that are blessed with having one should be proud maintaining it all the time.

Besides generating revenue, it is an attraction for the town. If I am not wrong, many people know the towns and cities through these stadiums.

These stadiums are sometimes the main reason people come to your town.

Nowadays organisers are very particular at choosing venues.

Among all facilities, they also look at the safety features at the venue.

In this regard it is utmost important for park owners to constantly upgrade their facilities so that they remain in the running.

Nadi is blessed having Prince Charles Park. This park has been hosting national and international events, but its overall condition is not so good these days.

This is my reason for writing this piece. The outer surrounding looks very dull without proper walkways and car park.

The main street linking with the park has no footpath which is not helping patrons to move safely in the area.

When there is a major event, motorists find it very difficult manoeuvring through the Raniga Street. In the absence of footpath, people walk on the street, so where do the motorists go?

After any natural disaster, I know, Nadi Town Council uses the car park as a temporary dump. A town like Nadi must quickly find a permanent solution to its dumping problem.

I believe the whole area outside Prince Charles Park needs a face lift. Before tournaments happen it would be good if we paint the pavilion and improve the ground condition but what about outside.

As a ratepayer, I urge the Nadi Town Council to lift the condition of our Prince Charles Park to a standard we all are proud of.

Speed cameras

Avitesh D Kumar,

Ba

Two years ago, I contributed to this column suggesting a possible solution to decreasing road accidents in Fiji.

I tend to believe and still believe that the only way to avoid accidents on our roads is by installing speed cameras throughout the country.

It might cost a fortune, but in the long run it will surely show results. Just recently, it was reported that “People need to change their mindset while on the road”.

I found it rather amusing owing to the fact that nothing is being done from their end and people are expected to change their mindsets. Harping about things would help, but actually doing it will.

Everyday a life is lost on our roads and these measures needs to be taken to tackle the issue.

A strict review of the driving school curriculum should also be done to ensure that new drivers thoroughly go through the process and that regular defensive courses are provided for drivers.

While on the same subject, traffic lights should be put at major junctions such as Davuilevu junction in the Suva-Nausori corridor. I hope relevant authorities take heed of this.

Road rules

Fulori Turaga,

Ahmedabad, India

While walking through Ahmedabad City, India and seeing how vehicles and pedestrians are some what co-ordinated in one of India’s busiest cities, it made me wonder if Fiji  could also adopt something similar.

Here at Ahmedabad, there are no traffic officers, hardly any motorists or pedestrians followed the road rules and yet there are very little road accidents.

One thing was obvious, they were all driving well below the speed limit.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Unbeatable ones

Kirtika Raju, Lautoka

In the midst of the sea a small island created history.

Beating Great Britain with 43-7 Fiji are coming home with the gold.

They may seem old, but don’t forget they’ve got the gold stronger than Winston, faster than the winds. The Kings of 7s.

Congrats boys and Ben Ryan… The unbeatable ones!

King Ryan!

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

Hail King Ryan. We are the champions!

Fiji has won its first ever gold medal at the Olympics and we have to thank the magician, the wizard, the tactician, the greatest ‘Ben Ryan’.

The back-to-back 7s series titles and now the Olympic gold, it’s just too much, boys. Thank you Ben for believing in the boys, for inspiring them to reach the greatest heights, and for bringing glory to our beloved nation.

To the boys, the bus (Tuisova), the beast, (Kunatani), Oscar, Nakarawa, Tuwai, Jasa, Vatemo, Viriviri, Domolailai, Taliga, Rawaca and Dakuwaqa – thank you and vinaka.  You are truly the greatest!

Fiji’s gold

Param Singh, Navua

It is a great success story for us all and naturally we are thrilled to hear about our 7s heroes stupendous Olympic success.

They made us proud with their brilliant performance and let’s hope for more success stories in the future.

The win was just too perfect to be dedicated as a ‘raksha bandhan’ gift to all our sisters in Fiji.

Magnificent 12

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

A historical occasion that will forever be carved into our history!

Considered just the one gold in the Olympics our warriors will return with 12 gold medals!

In the game of rugby 7s we have finally achieved Olympic glory!

We have confirmed to the world our status as the Kings of 7s rugby!

Extremely beautiful and most impressive! We salute and pay tribute to a remarkable and impressive effort from Ben Ryan and our magnificent 12!

Indeed a blessing to witness such a great historical event! Fiji, my Fiji!

Congratulations!

Wise Muavono, Lautoka

Congratulations to our 7s warriors for their gold medal win in Rio.

Vinaka vakalevu, for making the nation proud. We are indeed the best rugby 7s nation in the world. As promised, now I have to rain bath nude.

7s crusade victory!

Epeli Rabua, Suva

As the sun shines over Fiji, its rays shade the same colour medal which the Fijian 7s team have won themselves at the Rio Olympics.

Ben ‘the Lion’ Ryan and his champion 7s team have completed their crusade which began 3 years ago. They have won Fiji’s first ever Olympic gold medal.

Fiji’s 7s team epitomised their favourite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13, that – “they could do all things through Christ who strengthened them” – they redeemed themselves after a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games a few years ago, demolishing all who came before them at the Olympics, in front of the statue of Christ in Rio.

The anticlimax final just showcased to the World, the 7s skills that only a Fijian team could display and the spectacle they created would be in any 7s coaches manual.

Fiji presented to the World that 7s has rightfully found its place in the greatest sporting event in the World – the Olympics.

Fiji’s game plan predicated on instinct and on the motto of one of their opponents, Great Britain’s special fighting units, as special as the Fijians themselves, dared and won!

Fiji – We believed and we won!

Gold medal

Neelz Singh, Lami

We have won our first Olympic gold medal in our 60-year history of appearances at the game since 1956.

Ben Ryan and his merry-men have made it possible through sheer determination, hard work and dedication. What a moment to cherish for every Fijian.

Vinaka and God bless the Fijian 7s team.

Historic gold!

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Rugby is making its return to the Olympic fold after a 92-year absence at the Rio 2016 where 12 teams lined up in the men’s sevens tournament.

Among them were hot favourites, Fiji, who had just won the country’s first ever Olympic medal. Made up of 332 islands, Fiji lies in the South Pacific Ocean, East of Vanuatu, West of Tonga and far to the north of New Zealand.

Most of the country’s population of around 900,000 lives on its two largest islands, Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, which is home to the capital, Suva. The number one sport in this particular part of the world is rugby, with the national federation, the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), boasting more than 80,000 registered members.

The country’s 15-a-side team has been ever-presents at the Rugby World Cup since its inception, reaching the quarterfinals in 1987 and 2007. Their achievements pale in comparison, however, to Fiji’s sevens team, who have dominated the global scene for several years now.

As Ben Ryan had said: “This is the best side in the world in the last 2 years, a Fijian side that plays a very high tempo, high risk game that requires enormous amount of skill and enormous amount of fitness.”

The favourites to win gold on rugby’s return to the Olympic stage, the Fijians have made history by winning the country’s first ever medal, an achievement the Pacific nation has been waiting for since its Games debut at Melbourne, Australia, in 1956.

Whereas the Fiji XV leaves something to be desired in terms of the organisation and discipline of the forwards, their half-backs and three-quarters are known for their sublime and hugely entertaining running rugby and play for some of the leading clubs in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

Such invention and flair are part and parcel of rugby sevens, which has become the country’s national sport, with the Fiji sevens becoming the most feared side in the world, on account of their searing pace, magical handling skills and precise team play.

As predicted: “If we won something at the Olympics, you can just imagine what would happen: the island would not stop celebrating. Everyone in Fiji is backing the Olympics and whenever the Sevens side are on, everyone organises their household chores around the team.”

Fiji has won the Olympics. Nadi Airport would be far too small for the crowds. That’s how we look at sports in Fiji.

It is a sports-mad country with 7s at the top. We were confident and had faith in the men’s team and they have won gold.

Fiji are the reigning World Rugby Sevens Series champions, having won the competition twice in a row, achieving virtual rock star status back home and the adulation of their fans in the process. Across the Series’ 10 events around the world, from London to Hong Kong – a tournament they won for the 16th time – the rampant Fijians scored the most points (1704), the most tries (265) and the most conversions (188).

Discussing the secret to their recent success, Ben Ryan comments were: “This isn’t just a random side. It’s the best in the world.”

Fiji was undoubtedly be the team to beat at the first Olympic rugby competition since 1924, especially with some high-quality 15-a-side reinforcements poised to run out in Rio, among them Josua Tuisova and Leone Nakarawa.

Blessed with spectacular skills and formidably effective to boot, the Fijians have registered the greatest sporting triumph in the Pacific nation’s history.

For Fiji, ever Fiji! Go, Fiji go.

SODELPA

Amenatave Yaconisau, Suva

Your article ‘SODELPA better organised now; but will translate it into more votes’ by Nemani Delaibatiki (FS 10/8) is a brief highlight of SODELPA’s effort towards the 2018 election.

Whatever it is the Constitution of Fiji (sect 21) says it clearly it is their political rights to do so. Even Sitiveni Rabuka with his disheartening past is covered by that right despite the disagreement it may have caused.

It is the objective of any party or in co-operation with other political parties to prevail over the status quo in order to get into power.  It’s about the effort to get more voters. Surely a massive effort but not impossible is a very optimistic outlook from Mr Rabuka.

I gather the elaborate campaign is through a door to door campaign to educate, campaign, and activate voters who were previously inactive and to lead to accept party policies whatever it may be.

In screening volunteers, the selection process should make sure candidates know the methodologies of the party in order to lure voters.

The attitudes, beliefs, emotions and needs of voters should be understood. They should be aware of management caucus, branch systems, and other structures including the electoral system and the constitution and to have a fair idea of what politics is all about.

Aristotle once said: “The end of politics is not knowledge but action. Actions that include change in standard of living whether it has improved or not, and whether income has improved too are welfare activities that need to be considered.

The choice for SODELPA is good governance or chaos.

Sevens teaching

Dhirendra Prasad, Lautoka

Sevens rugby in Fiji has given the code a new definition altogether. It signifies a dignified and respected coach, a real faithful and fit captain and players who are diligent and fitter than the fittest subordinates.          This fully describes an excellent workplace where justice prevails with reality in action. No amount of personal bickering and selfishness catches any attraction, but genuine attributes of a true sports person.

Of course the golden path had its share of real challenges in terms of sacrifice. Sacrifice in terms of food, family time, personal habits, time management, adaptation to new demands, following instructions, uncertainty, facing the reality checks, body conditioning and the usual in the sun life.

The flow of each drop of sweat during the training at the famous sand dunes must be tasting much sweeter than honey now. The teamwork of the team is what the country needs now. Let the captain lead with one aim – success, nothing less for all Fijians.

It took one man called Ben Ryan to work out the right formula with the best materials to get on top of the world of sporting and create history.

No doubt, team Fiji sevens is exemplary to all other teams in the country. I hope soccer would not be so proud of that one goal scored with the highest number of goals against it in the name of learning at that level. Stop learning at the competitions but learn during the training sessions with your coaches. It is not you as an individual but collectively that can bring glory. Do not forget the almighty at any cost.

Winning has never been so sweet than this gold medal win in Rio. Vinaka boys. You deserve your awards and rewards. To all students: Follow the dedicated pathway the sevens team at your study level and you will gain gold definitely.

Celebration venue

Sukha Singh, Labasa

Could we have the “first gold medal” celebrations at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes.

We could even give the sand dunes to Ben Ryan and the boys and Ben could set up a training camp there and live happily in Fiji.

Golden Fiji

Praneet Singh, Sacramento, CA 

To the people of Fiji and the Fijian diaspora, the gold medal Fiji won in Rio is worth more than the 990 odd gold medals USA has won since the modern Olympics began.

It’s our moon landing event. Every man, woman and child will remember where they were when this happened (not working of course!)

Equally fitting for the occasion was the humbleness, gratitude and respect shown by the Fijian players while accepting their medals.

While any other team would have rushed the podium to beat their chest as gold medalists, how magnanimous of the Fijian boys to include the silver and bronze medal winners in their moment of glory.

That is the Fijian spirit the Pope once opined as the way the world should be.

Vinaka Vakalevu for uniting Fijians into one happy family.

Noble banner blue

Tom Davis, Tamavua

Well, what a thrill. My eyes filled with tears when I watched the Fiji Flag flying proudly high above those of Great Britain and South Africa in the breeze at the stadium in Brazil this morning.

Please honorable Prime Minister don’t change our flag.

In the presence of royalty

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Fijian rugby players have shown Britain’s Princess Anne the deepest respect during their award ceremony after they walked away with the nation’s first ever Olympics medal.

On Friday, the rugby sevens team sang in celebration after claiming victory over Britain 43-7; the first Olympics rugby win in 92 years.

As she did, each player knelt down on the podium and clapped three times out of respect for the royal.

Some of the players clasped their hands together and took in the moment, while other shared a few words with Princess Anne before she moved on.

Fijian Captain Osea Kolinisau led the defending Sevens World Series Champions in their ruthless win.

Reform VAT /GST

Saimoni Lutu, Namosi

In 1979 or 1989, some 20 to 30 plus years ago, VAT was first introduced to Fiji. Little or no reform has been enacted to this consumption tax and the same baggage that came with the initiation of the policy continues. For example exemption of exports and other zero ratings mean that the vulnerable of our society that is the poor will carry a disproportionately heavy burden from this tax than others.

To remove this injustice and unfairness, all zero rated activities, particularly exports must be subject to a rate of say three per cent harmonised over all other activities.

In other words by eliminating all zero rated activities, a critical mass is achieved of the order of magnitude almost two times or even more as then of previously.

With that sorts of number a lower rate of VAT / GST for example three per cent, is within the realm of possibility. Sure beats the present high nine per cent nah? The windfall of course is the total rake from this tax of $800 million annually will not be reduced; more likely it will increase!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Symbolic memory

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka

After Fiji won the 7s world cup, Sigatoka Bridge was named after the Melrose Cup win in 2005.

I am wondering what we can name after rugby’s gold medal victory in Rio. Any suggestions?

Respect and space

Joji Koroibanuve, Nasinu

I believe it’s time to give space, freedom, and respect to usual sights of rugby and touch rugby played in parks, beaches, roadsides, roundabouts, etc since it is an Olympic gold-medal-winning-sport for our beloved Fiji.

King Ryan and the knights

Shad Alfaz Ali, Navua

Hail King Ryan!  We are the champions!

Fiji has won its first ever medal at the Olympics and we have to thank the magician, the wizard, the tactician, the greatest ‘Ben Ryan’.

The back-to-back Sevens Series titles and now the Olympic gold! It’s just too much boys.

Thank you Ben, for believing in the boys, for inspiring them to reach the greatest heights, and for bringing glory to our beloved nation.

To the boys: The Bus (Josua Tuisova), The Beast, (Semi Kunatani), Oscar (Osea Kolinisau), Leone Nakarawa, Seremaia Tuwai, Jasa Veremalua, Vatemo Ravouvou, Samisoni Virirviri, Viliame Mata, Apisai Domolailai, Kitione Taliga, Savenaca Rawaca and Masivesi Dakuwaqa – thank you and vinaka.  You are truly the greatest.

For Fiji, ever Fiji!

Ashneel J Prasad , Auckland, NZ

I was born in a small city in Fiji, Lautoka. Even before I learnt the morals of what is wrong or right, or my alphabets and numbers, I learnt one thing – rugby. Seeing my parents, brother and my relatives cheer for some men running in the TV screen always used to leave me confused.

Slowly, I too started cheering for the men in white. I too started to sit in front of the TV and watch all these players making our country proud of them.

I remember, during Ram Naumi, Hong Kong 7s always used to be on, on the TV.

We used to celebrate Ram Naumi in a small mandir in Tawatawa, Lautoka. Someone always used to bring a small TV and an antenna and we used to cheer for Fiji, after finishing off with our prayers.

Be it a wedding, funerals or birthdays, one topic that is a must for discussion is rugby.

Rugby for us Fijians is not just a sport. It’s our identity.

Each player is like our family. Each try is our win. Each loss is our loss. Rugby is one thing that unites all Fijians.

Rugby is above everything. They say if a group of people follow something ‘religiously’, it becomes a religion. Rugby is Fiji’s prime religion.

As the Fijian 7s team won a gold medal at the Olympics, it’s not just another medal.

Other countries win 10, 20 or 30 medals at the Olympics and still feel nothing of it.

For a country with 900,000 people, this one medal means more than all those other 30 medals combined.

There is not enough words or expressions or gestures that can and will describe my happiness. It’s a historic day.

This day will never ever come again. Cherish it.

You have an epic memory to relish. One day in future you will tell your children and grandchildren, of the day the Fijian 7s team won an Olympic gold medal for the first time.

A man went against his homeland to bring pride and glory to our country. I’ll forever be indebted to Ben Ryan and his warriors for this historic moment.

No ruling party, no opposition, no ethnicity, no religion, no gender and no one else can take this moment from you. We are the kings, the kings of the 7s world.

We have conquered the world. We have conquered our dreams.

We have conquered the Olympics Gold Medal for Rugby 7s. Even if I die, I’ll die knowing my country is rejoicing.

My country is on everyone’s lips. I feel complete. I’m proud to be born in a nation, where we don’t run after tries, we run after dreams. Thank you Fiji.

Magnificent twelve

Simon Hazelman , Savusavu

A historical occasion that will forever be carved in our history! Considered just the one gold in the Olympics, our warriors will return with 12 gold medals!

In the game of rugby sevens, we have finally achieved Olympic glory. We have confirmed to the world our status as the Kings of Sevens Rugby.

Extremely beautiful and most impressive!

We salute and pay tribute to a remarkable and impressive effort from Ben Ryan and our magnificent 12.

Indeed a blessing to witness such a great historical event!

Fiji my Fiji!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

National day of thanksgiving

Tevita Vakarewa, Suva

We have been overwhelmed with congratulatory messages from all corners

of the globe regarding our emphatic first ever Olympic gold medal victory in Rio.

This I believe will continue in the days and weeks ahead and like our Prime Minister said after the final, “We are all proud to be Fijians right now.”

With all the fanfare and celebration planning kicking into motion, I have one humble request to our leaders including our various Christian denominations leaders to please come together and organise a national day of thanksgiving and praises to the Lord.

As spiritual people we know that this must be done and we will be guilty if we don’t. Let’s do it right and that is Kingdom culture right there.

I understand that our brothers in Christ from KAIF will want to organise something however let’s not box our God, let it be a national thanksgiving celebration. A celebration of praise and thanksgiving offering at the ANZ Stadium would be a sweet smelling aroma to God.

Let us not acknowledge him with words only but let’s put it into action. Therefore, I recommend Sunday August 21, as an ideal time as it will precede the declared national holiday and celebration. Let HIM come first in everything we do.

Let’s put our differences aside and celebrate this victory together as a nation. I believe that there is nothing more that our 7s captain would love than for us as a nation to come together in this way.

He was quoted as saying, “People back home deserve to celebrate for

they waited for this for a long time, but let’s not forget God for he is the reason on why we are victorious today.”

Hear, O kings; give ear, O rulers! I — to the LORD, I will sing, I will sing praise to the Lord, the God of Israel – Judges 5:3.

Olympic 7s rugby ball

Herleen Emily Kumar, Nadi

While the Fijian 7s team are making it big in Rio by winning their first Olympic gold medal, there’s a request to the FRU – to keep the 7s ball from Rio at the national museum.             This is Fiji’s first gold medal therefore it would remain as a memory to our next generation, who did not get to witness this historic moment. I hope it would be kept as a heritage for life. Vinaka, boys.

Rugby holiday

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka 

After our historic gold win at the Olympics my Government declared a public holiday.

One more small request, I feel that the Western and Northern parts of Fiji should be included in the celebration.

So if our rugby gladiators can split in groups and be send to different locations. On the same note can we also close all shops, markets, etc on that day so everybody can participate in whatever is organised on that day.

Donations to winning team

Sukha Singh, Labasa

I did not contribute anything to the 7s team, I didn’t even pray for them.

Now that they have won a gold medal from the Olympics I do not know why I feel like donating a few cartons of Fiji Gold to the boys and Ben Ryan.

Serevi

Joe Smith, Pacific Harbour

Where is Waisele Serevi?

Could someone point out who, out of all golden boys, has replaced him?

Soccer in Fiji

Ashneel J Prasad, New Zealand

Now that rugby 7s team has won the ultimate prize and the Olympics, I wonder when the officials at FFA wake up. The mantra now should be “Prove it or move it”.

Floreat Viti

Joji Toronibau, Tunuloa

If only times could be spooled back and I to be part of the brigades’ party in Suva, after the high intensifying game between Marist and QVS.

Deans to QVS is always viewed differently and is always a determined ball game altogether. Peoples support is always awesome.

A high flyer [Captain Naigulevu] from Oman flew all the way from Middle East to support the boys on Saturday is always a typical example let alone a few others from abroad.

Thank you young ruggers and wishing you success in your academic careers for a brighter future. Floreat Viti.

iTaukei (Fijian) migration 

Taitusi Sokiveta, Arizona, USA

How in the world did Lutunasobasoba know where the Fiji islands were from   Lake Tanga (Tanzania, Africa)?

If I was escaping cholera I would go to Kenya, Uganda, Somalia or other surrounding countries.

Look into your atlas see and measure how far Tanzania is from Fiji. Now ask yourselves, you are in an outrigger canoe would you dare go out into the Indian Ocean where waves are seven feet high and above? Even Somalia with their pirates going after cargo ships to rob them, turn around if the ship heads out to open ocean.

Now let’s follow the coastal area, remember Somalia and Arabian countries have a dry heat temperature, 100 degrees and above in the summer time. Morocco average heat is 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Now you’re in the Kaunitoni with Lutunasobasoba, there is no water to drink because it does not rain in those countries. The heat is so excruciating that you drink all your water so fast, you don’t have air-condition, and no engine to make the boat go faster. Everything is done physically, so if you’re human that requires a lot of drinking water. The air is dead because of the heat so the wind does not pick up like the Fiji waters. So sailing becomes pretty tough by this time. You’re dehydrated and may die from a heat stroke. If you’re still alive you still have to cross the Red Sea to get to Yemen, remember the big waves, then you got to cross the Persian Gulf, not counting the long distance coastal travel – Afghanistan, Pakistan, India. That is a miracle if you can make it on a boat with no engine and water. I have to be travelling with Jesus to make it that far on my own.

No way, from Fiji to Hawaii is 3108 miles, North of the Pacific the Hukulea native Hawaiian voyage from Hawaii to Tahiti, takes one week with the help of the current/waves, water/food supply, and a big boat.

Lutunasobasoba lived next to a Tanzanian lake, Africa, and never travelled long distance on an ocean voyage before in his life. Probably he had never been to an ocean considering the lake’s distance from the Indian Ocean. Now does he have any seamanship experience, let alone to sail an outrigger canoe?

If you went to the interior of Viti Levu and ask the people of Wainibuka to sail a boat from Suva to Ono-i-Lau on their own personal experience, they will reject it because they have never done it before in their life.

If there is one thing in life we need to learn it is to separate reality from fantasy.

Encouraging example

Suresh Chand, Nadi 

The Vodafone Hibiscus Festival is setting a brilliant example by including multiple contests.

It is a good example of encouragement.

Besides the Queen and King, Prince and Princess also compete in the festival. It is a complete package as far as annual festivals of this magnitude is concerned. I strongly recommend other committees to follow the unique example.

Once about 10 years ago, I also had a brief glimpse of the festival.

The capital city offers a festival atmosphere of another level. Rain is the only obstacle when it comes to having fun in any outdoor activity like the festival. No problem if you are used to it.

I take this opportunity wishing the committee every success this year.

Just rewards for our Olympians

Saverio Baleikanacea, Lami

I would like to add my congratulations and vinaka vakalevu to our men’s national 7s gladiators and coach Ben Ryan for being the most successful Fijian Team ever.

First, in winning the 2015/2016 World Rugby Sevens Series culminating in winning the country’s first gold medal at the Rio Olympics – the pinnacle of any athlete and national sporting organisation. Now that is history.

What is now important is to decide and provide to our gladiators presents and gifts that is befitting, appropriate and which will fairly and justly reward them for their efforts and sacrifices in the past months culminating in their success at the Rio Olympics.

The actual celebrations planned including the public holiday will only be a brief, temporary and a short term benefit to our players. After the holidays on Monday, August 22, then what? Our Gladiators will revert to being normal ordinary Fijian citizens? They are not ordinary Fijian citizens! They are our first Olympic champions!

As such, they should be provided presents and gifts which will properly, fairly and justly recognise and reward them as Olympic champions.

The $30,000 proposed by the Government is totally insignificant, and therefore unfair, unjust and unacceptable based on the following reasons:

 A precedent has already been set when the Government gifted Assistant Minister Iliesa Delana with a fully furnished home plus car when he won a gold medal in the 2012 Paralympics in London;

 The $3 million spent by the Government for the one evening event involving the Super 15 Rugby match held in Suva on July 1,2016 between the Chiefs and the Crusaders;

 The $10 million the Government spends annually since 2014 to fund the Fiji International Golf tournament at Natadola; and

 The $13 million rebate paid by the Government to the producers and owners of the TV series called the Survivor.

Whilst Government is reviewing the $30,000 per player, I hope their sponsor, Vodafone and other major companies are doing the same.

The Fiji Rugby Union can also organise a house to house appeal throughout Fiji with the proceeds to be shared equally by the players.

Again, best wishes and vinaka vakalevu to all our players.

Olympic 7s rugby ball

Herleen Emily Kumar, Nadi

While the Fijian 7s team are making it big in Rio by winning their first Olympic gold medal, there’s a request to the FRU – to keep the 7s ball from Rio at the national museum.             This is Fiji’s first gold medal therefore it would remain as a memory to our next generation, who did not get to witness this historic moment. I hope it would be kept as a heritage for life. Vinaka, boys.

Our Fiji

Arien Vikash Kumar, Nadi

A tiny nation, with limited resources, small budget, but our boys “Greatly Beaten” the “Great Britain” and others to claim gold.

Mai Fiji, my Fiji, our Fiji, God bless Fiji. Thanks for the gold from Rio. 2016, truly a year to remember, Winston, World Rugby Sevens Series back-to-back titles and gold from Rio.

Vinaka boys, coach, officials, not forgetting their families and their prayers.

Church, State and sports

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Canada

Even though Fiji is considered to be governed by a secular State, no one can deny that our recent history in winning our first gold medal in the Olympic Games seems to present to the world that we are a very dedicated Christian nation.

The State has a big stake in sports and in the case of our victorious Vodafone Fijian Sevens Olympians. These sports people are all Christians who gave God all the praise for their magnificent 43-7 final performance against Great Britain.

Political correctness has swept the large nations by storm and other smaller nations like us are moving towards it, where it is not acceptable to be mentioning the name of Jesus Christ or God in public.

Reading the dailies in the past days, God has been mentioned or alluded to by all Fijians, who are on top of the world because of the achievement of coach Ben Ryan and the boys.

While we all accept the fact that the State and the Church are to remain separate, sports seems to be the unifying body in the middle.

I believe that Fiji as a nation prayed for our first Olympic Games gold medal win and coach Ryan and our 7s Olympians worked that faith during their preparations.

If God answered our prayers for a sporting achievement, imagine if we as a nation unite to pray for His mighty hand in solving all our current problems, including Non-Communicable Diseases.

Israel was the envy of all surrounding nations when God was their supreme ruler and I believe Fiji will be the way the world should be, if we Fijians as a nation, uphold Him and seek Him, just like our recent pleading to win our first Olympic Games gold medal.

7s rugby questions

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

Given Fiji’s performance in the finals of the rugby 7s at the 2016 Rio Olympics, there are a number of questions arising.

Firstly, has this taken the standard or the class of 7s to another level? Obviously other national coaches will want to better this record come 2017.

Does this signify the alarm bells calling for a resignation of the New Zealand 7s coach? He’s won almost every tournament including World Cups and Commonwealth Games but to manage a New Zealand side which lost two pool games and the quarterfinals may not go down well with some Kiwi fans, especially after their national women’s rugby team won silver.

Has the performance of our national team had an impact on tourism in Fiji? Whatever one’s views the Uprising Resort has more reason to be proud of hosting the Olympic gold medallists.

How and what did it take Ben Ryan and his team to deliver perhaps the best ever performance to date of a Fijian 7s team?

Whatever one’s views, one can be sure that it’s still taking time for the nation to really believe in our national 7s team performance.

Fijian soccer

Neelz Singh, Lami

Fijian soccer can use the Sigatoka sand dunes for training as well if they want to achieve better results.

Our rugby stars are shining because they train and suffered the rugged condition of the sand dunes.

Soccer is the oldest establish sports in Fiji but they haven’t succeeded on the international level. So what’s the next step for Fiji FA? Hope to see them playing better in professional level.

Deans result

Amenatave Yaconisau, Suva

It was disappointment and heartbreak again for Marist against QVS in a show of champagne rugby that has vanished from Fiji for some time.

It was like deja-vu from last year but this time it’s another Tailevu giant QVS that was the nemesis.

Rugby is the winner definitely, but the kicker from Marist will not forget the mysterious forces that made him miss two penalties and three unconverted tries. That would have given them a comfortable lead. There were other things like poor ball handling and senseless kicks but no excuses.

What a letdown! God’s favour just wasn’t with us on that day despite our prayers. He simply didn’t want to give it.

On the other hand the QVS halfback will go down in the history of Deans Trophy rivalry as the guy who kicked his school to yet another victory. All credit to him for responding when needed. He will remember it for the rest of his life. Such lifting is good for QVS family after the devastation of Cyclone Winston. They did not have a great beginning typical of champions but boy the grit and persistence was there, and it paid in the end.

Next year is another year but let’s keep everlastingly at it. Let’s keep moving as Manoa Rasigatale says in his iTaukei programme “Na Toso” ke dredre sara vakacava na bula me toso tiko ga.

Let’s not only accept good only from God, but also trouble as Job 2(10) says.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Poor Sky Pacific service

Anjana Lata, Lautoka

We have recently had Sky Pacific installed at our  place, at first it took them more than six weeks after payment to come and do the installment, then when they came their workmanship was so poor they kept walking in and out of the house with shoes on, dropped the access cable next to the TV instead of coiling it up neatly.

For about a week we enjoyed the TV  shows, but then the reception started to deteriorate, currently we are only getting the strength but not the quality, when we go and complain they assure us that they will come in today and check and that we have to pay a service fee,  but nothing happens.

Our bill keeps accumulating but for nothing.

Can someone in authority please look into your  complaints section and see how poor your maintenance team is in providing service.

Behind the Scene

Arien  Kumar, Nadi

Could we have a brief background with the family picture of all our sevens heroes published in this Saturday’s Fiji Sun please.

This I guess will let everyone know of the real people behind a player’s success, who are non-other than their family members.

Without their guidance, upbringings, support, love, sacrifices and prayers, our heroes wouldn’t have been what they are today.

Therefore we cannot forget to acknowledge (or know about) them for playing their roles perfecting in giving us our best men on earth who made each one of us proud today.

Our nations flag is shining high today thanks to these players, coach, officials and their families.

The opportunity cost of obtaining Rio Gold is far more bigger or costly to these families than the actual value of the Gold.

To the families of our heroes, I salute you and hope that our nation does the same by honouring you all with respect and dignity.

May God bless you all and may you continue to give Fiji more heroes in future.

Don’t blame Cracknell

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

A letter writer has blamed Chris Cracknell for the Fijiana 7s women’s loss at the Rio Olympics. Our Fijiana women’s team must be given credit for qualifying for the Rio Olympics, it is the first time for both men and women rugby in an Olympics.

My dear writer can be forgiven for not having played international rugby at that level; Cracknell has captained England at the 7s rugby’s many world tournaments and the women’s Fijiana participation alone speaks volumes.

Fiji’s gold medal was never achieved and built in a day and I feel the letter writer should apologise to the families of our women’s team including the officials.

They have set a standard and are an inspiration to future Fijian Olympians.

Celebration in Tuvalu

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

Some say real men don’t get too emotional but during the finals of the Sevens Rugby finals several Fijian men in Funafuti, Tuvalu, could not hold back their tears.

At the National Bank of Tuvalu, a former Fijian school teacher could not hold back her screams as our gladiators kept piling in the points.

At Filomona Lodge, a crowd of locals and nervous Fijians held their breaths as the referee whistle signalled the beginning of a match that had the potential to cause heart attacks but it was not to be as the (kaila) screaming could be heard some distance away.

Many Tuvaluans also dashed to the nearest screen.

It did not take long before local Fijians organised a truck load of fans and motor bikes, cheering and waving Fiji flags.

Somehow there was no shortage of kava which tasted even sweeter. All in all, celebrations did occur in the capital of Tuvalu.

Olympic 7s final

Wise Muavono, Balawa

A homeowner was alone at home watching the Olympic 7s final when suddenly some people were peeping through the window trying to catch a glimpse of the game.

Lucky we won, otherwise he would have called the cops on them for trespassing. Ha! Ha! Ha!.

Zebra crossing

Narayan Reddy, Lautoka

Thank you Fiji Roads Authority for making zebra crossing around Lautoka city. But the one on Vakabale Street opposite Prouds shop is very dangerous.

It’s right on the bend and if a vehicle is turning and at that same time people decide to cross, I don’t need to write what happens next.

To me that crossing is like a time bomb waiting to take someone’s life any time soon.

Please whoever had the idea of making a crossing on that particular spot, do check on this because within half an hour this morning five accidents almost happened on that spot.

I have witnessed how the drivers suddenly stop to allow people to use that crossing!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj