FIJIANS of Indian descent on Taveuni are seeking government assistance for a proper crematorium on the island.
Qila resident James Sami said the common practice was to cremate the bodies of their loved ones on their own freehold land.
"However, it is sad to note that not every Indian family on the island owns freehold land," he said. "It is sad that when we farewell our beloved, we do not have a proper facility to carry out final rites therefore we often rely on friends or families who have freehold land."
"We are requesting government to assist us in any way for a proper crematorium facility which can be managed by the Pratindhi Sabha here in Taveuni.
Divisional planning officer northern Alipate Bolalevu said the Provincial Development Ministry has not received any application for such a facility from the residents on Taveuni. He said a crematorium was an important facility.
"Applications should be forwarded to the district officer's office and we will process them," he said. "The acting DO for Taveuni who is taking over from the previous DO is to be dispatched to the island next week and he will ensure this matter is resolved with the community concerned."