Tigers extend lead
This week’s round of soccer action both locally and internationally is set to kickoff.
The English Premier League started as giants Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool got to a flying start.
Fans were also entertained to the Police IDC.
This week the Red Devils, after a pre-season 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, face Crystal Palace.
In local soccer, Rewa, which hosts Labasa tomorrow, extended its lead on the points table after coming from behind to beat Nadi 2-1 while Ba thrashed Navua 3-0.
The Lions got back to winning ways and salvaged some pride after they beat Nasinu 2-0 while the Suva v Lautoka battle ended in a 1-all draw.
Rewa leads Suva and Ba by three and four points respectively.
This week’s soccer battles will have a huge impact on the points table as Ba faces Lautoka, Rewa takes on Labasa, Suva plays Navua, while Nasinu meets Nadi.
The Lions have got some breathing space between themselves and the bottom placed Navua side but if they can beat Rewa at Ratu Cakobau Park, they’ll throw the soccer league points table wide open.
This is a good chance for the Lions to cause an upset!
All the best to Master Ronil, Rayaz and the Babasiga Lions!
I, must at the outset, acknowledge FBC’s efforts in promoting soccer via ‘The Voice of Soccer’ Raymond Stoddart who adds thrills to matches with his mirch masala!
Vinaka!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Very sad
This past Tuesday was a very special day as the United Nations lists it as International Day of Democracy.
Thank you The Fiji Times for marking the day with a brilliant piece.
As we look forward to the country’s third consecutive national election to be held under the 2013 constitution in 2022, what about the municipal elections which has not happened since 2006.
Fourteen years has gone by and how much longer do the ratepayers have to wait to see the return of mayoral system once again?
To me it doesn’t look as if the government will be able return the councils to elected council any time soon.
This is very sad indeed.
Suresh Chand, Nadi
Global recognition
Nadi International Airport is named among the 10 most scenic airports in the world by the voters of the annual scenic airport polls conducted by PrivateFly.
This gives global recognition to Fiji’s natural beauty and tranquility.
Partial credit goes to the recent refurbishment of Nadi International Airport.
It has already won several awards and accreditation.
In pre-COVID situation, it became a busy hub in the Pacific but under unforeseen circumstances, the entire aviation industry is put in a difficult situation.
The post-COVID phase needs to formulate policies that have discounted direct flights with enhancing connectivity to bring the tourism industry back to normal or the ‘new normal’.
Hoping the situation eases out in the near future.
Dr Sakul Kundra, Lautoka
Leisure flights
I had written a letter to the editor in The Fiji Times (29/8) about leisure flights for Fiji Airways but they didn’t act on it but Qantas the Australian Airline has.
They have called it Sight Seeing Flight where they will fly from Sydney Airport at a low altitude around the whole of Australia for seven hours.
The cost of economy class is about $A750 ($F1154) and for business class is $A3000 ($F4618) including meals and drinks.
The seats were sold within 10 minutes.
Now they want more flights regularly till the borders open.
They say there is no hassle of visa, passport, luggage and customs.
It is still not too late for Fiji Airways to try at least one flight per week with their Boeing 737 for two hours for a cost of $F250 per person with food and drinks.
If there is more demand than they can increase it too.
If an airline like Qantas can do that why not Fiji Airways.
Don’t just sit there but act.
Nardeo Mishra, Suva
Road infrastructure
Motorists are irked by uneven stretches and poor road maintenance which could lead to accidents as some portions of the patched up roads are sunk, causing uneven and bumpy road surfaces that endanger motorists.
Roads are essential to the citizens since other modes of transport are out of reach.
They use roads every day and it is incumbent upon the authorities to ensure they are properly maintained.
With a gigantic budget allocation year after year coupled with allocations from town councils and road user levies they expect to be fairly treated.
Let’s start from the root causes of bad roads and since there is no studies available on this subject our workers are unable to learn the winning strategies in this matter.
Relevant higher educational institutes may think along these lines to aid in this matter.
Param Singh, Navua
Donation to FASA members
The Federated Airlines Staff Association would like to rectify a few errors in our letter that appeared on FT 16/9.
The donors were the Lautoka Rotary Club and not the Fiji Rotary Club.
Also, Teresa Ali is the secretary and not the national secretary as mentioned in the letter.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused to all the parties concerned.
Manasa Ratuvili, National secretary, FASA
Tourism
I believe we have all the natural attractions that should lure tourists into our island paradise.
We are aware that we have become an expensive tourist destination.
Probably time to reflect on the reasons we fail to attract one million tourists annually.
Government must lend its ears and work with all stakeholders towards improving tourism numbers once the new normal returns.
Dan Urai, Lautoka
Union issue
To be a union leader you got to win elections every year.
I think it is the second best paying job after parliamentarians.
Nowadays I believe the job is much easier because the unions hardly go on strike.
I remember being a member of a union where the union secretary’s meal allowance was almost same as his salary.
Jan Nissar why don’t you come over and try to replace anyone of these union leaders and take over his/her unfinished business.
Sukha Singh, Labasa
Holiday time
Wishing our teachers and students all the best for the one week break!
I urge parents to ensure that their children are looked after well and that they spend the break doing some worthwhile activities.
To the teachers – thank you so much for your efforts regardless of the challenges that you faced in term two!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Big guns
Can those “big guns” be revealed? (FT 18/09).
Nishant Singh, Lautoka
No surprise
I wonder why I was not surprised by businessman Charan Jeath Singh’s revelation that the FijiFirst party has been mostly funded by “big guns” of the local business community (FT 18/9).
So what “paradigm change” has the “cleanup” coup brought about?
It’s the same old style politics, isn’t it?
Rajend Naidu, Sydney, Australia
Stray dogs
Stray dogs, what stray dogs? (FT18/9)
Allen Lockington, Kava Place, Lautoka
Dog issue
As highlighted in the (FT 18/9) article titled “stray dogs a menace”, it seems like the stray dog issue is not ending any time soon.
Pranil Ram, Votualevu, Nadi
Statement
I don’t seem to recall noticing any other religious leaders publicly supporting Archbishop Peter Loy Chong’s recent statement on the depiction of women in the Bible.
I hope I am wrong.
Doe Miller Ritova St, Labasa
Bottleneck point
We in this neck of the woods on the west side of Suva Harbour, are very appreciative and greatly relieved at last, to see the completion of the new Tamavua-i-Wai bridge.
The long wait has been worth it.
I just hope that on the margins of this development and with the undertaking of the proposed traffic survey using drone technology, some thought will now be given to relieve current Queens Rd commuters, of the bottlenecks that a single carriageway in and out of Suva provides.
It’s such a risky situation, especially during road accidents, let alone emergencies.
There must be something in the pipeline, to complement the new bridge development with its proposed four lanes.
Otherwise, its advantage will unfortunately be limited to the traffic in that area only.
Edward Blakelock, Admiral Circle, Pacific Harbour
Dog fight
The enforcement of the Dog Act (Cap. 168) is with the Ministry of Agriculture.
Lautoka City Council works very closely with the Ministry of Agriculture in addressing the stray dog problem in the city.
The Ministry of Agriculture is at the forefront in the fight against stray dogs and other animal nuisance in the city.
And the council facilitates the operations of the Ministry of Agriculture by providing pounds for dogs, and disposal provision of dead animals at the Vunato dump site.
The council also provides space at our Works Depot in Wayavi, Lautoka, for Animals Fiji to conduct their clinics.
The stray dog nuisance needs to be addressed by all stakeholders.
The council takes all efforts to collect strewn garbage on the collection days.
The council urges the citizens to take pride in their City of Lautoka and join hands with council for a cleaner, safer and beautiful Lautoka.
Mohammed Anees Khan, CEO, Lautoka City Council
War of words
As expected, the war of words has started ahead of the Nadroga v Namosi clash.
Holders Namosi has sent out a warning and the red brigade is confident of another successful defence after beating Naitasiri and Lautoka.
Namosi brought the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy from Lawaqa Park, a feat that has been achieved by few provincial teams and preparations would have been stepped up considering Nadroga’s brilliant comeback against Suva last week.
Esala Nauga and the Stallions are hurt that they lost the game they had in the bag and the Stallions will be coming out firing at Ratu Cakobau Park.
Yesterday’s power-packed sports heading by Biudole, “Champ sends warning ahead of title defence”, brought a lot of smiles.
Namosi will look up to the likes of Josua Vakurunabili, former Stallions Alivereti Veitokani and Seru Cakobau, Aseri Robarobalevu, Jone Naqiri, Alifereti Rabukawaqa, Risiate Tadulala, Apakuki Vuaviri, Vinaya Habosi, Peni Matawalu, Sakiusa Nadruku, Onisi Ratave, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Filimoni Savou and Lepani Raiyala; while Nadroga is likely to field Timoci Sauvoli, Ratunaisa Navuma, Jone Koroiduadua, Sailosi Dawai, Rupeni Nasiga, Manueli Ratuniyarawa, Rusiate Nasove, Eremasi Radrodro, the lethal pair in veterans Emosi Vucago and Jonetani Ralulu, Napolioni Nalaga, Peceli Nacebe, Sakiusa Nakalevu, Apisalome Waqatabu, and brothers Sevuloni Mocenacagi and Kavekini Tabu and bring on the likes of Jone Navori, Meli Neori, Luke Salaba, veterans Setefano Somoca and Jiuta Lutumailagi, Sailasa Kerekere, Joseva Kuruicuva and Mesake Tuinamena, who was impressive against Suva, from the bench.
Nadroga fans will agree with me that the Farebrother Sullivan Trophy belongs to Nakuruvarua and today I’m banking on Nadroga to put their bodies on the line and take back what rightfully belongs to them.
Just like one of their sponsors the brave The Fiji Times, Nadro’s never-say-die attitude will take them through.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Battle of the mind
In the battlefield, there is a saying that victory is achieved before the action.
The rugby match between Suva and Nadroga of last Saturday was no exception.
Judging by the two sides warm up, it was obvious that Suva was on another level.
The men in blue were practising moves among the forwards and back line in such a way that spectators could easily pick out a well-organised team.
Meanwhile, the men in black and white appeared to focus more on exercises and stretches.
In the end, it was simply too late Nadroga as Suva stamped its dominance in the first half.
In summary, while teams will be out to stamp their authority on the field, their coaches will continue to work on their players attitudes as on the rugby paddocks it’s simply a battle of the minds.
Floyd Robinson, Toorak, Suva
Deeds not words
I have always read his contributions and appreciated his views on various subjects in your column.
The timely contributions to needy students in many schools in the West is very well appreciated.
He has proven that he practices what he preaches.
Vinaka Mr Lockington and your hardworking team.
Arvind Kumar, Raviravi, Ba
Accolades for Allen and team
Vinaka Allen Lockington and your team in recognising the people with special needs and more importantly who are very much part of our daily lives living and breathing.
In these tough times, such initiatives and recognition show the resilient Viti the way the world should see.
The picture of Allen and his team in unity, guiding and assisting a student at the bus bay will bring confidence to every other municipal, town, malls, supermarkets and other similar places to start the same initiative as well.
The chain must continue and should not end.
The baton must be passed and the service continues without any second thoughts.
We are thankful for our lives and a hearty contribution such as this is our daily service to God and mankind.
One door closes and another one opens.
Toso Viti kaukauwa dina.
Vinaka Lautoka and Viti Times for another strong message and the people providing service like this … joka kece … Returning all glory to God.
Shalwyn Prasad, Mukta Ben Place, Nabua, Suva
Lockdown events
The recent lockdown related events in Victoria, Australia is so extraordinary, and at times unbelievable, that it is happening in our lifetime and in our relatively quiet neighbourhood.
More so the unprecedented responses, from both the authorities and the public.
We in Fiji have the luxury, to observe and learn lessons from these happenings, on what’s the right or the wrong thing to do.
The answer becomes painfully and utterly clear, from an outside observer’s perspective.
Unfortunately, this does not seem so, for those right in it.
What may appear logical and obvious to us from the outside,may not be so, when you are the one affected, or the one making decisions.
It seems to all boil down to two basic things.
On one hand, you have the role of the authorities.
They issue, implement, enforce and monitor the respective laws and restriction guidelines — laid down as per standard WHO protocols — in order to counter this viral invasion and infection.
This is their mandated role.
On the other hand, you have the public.
They are the ones to obey, observe and strictly adhere to these laws and guidelines, laid down for their protection and survival.
That’s the expected and logical response.
It’s when either one of the two parties, is not doing their bit, in a timely and relatively civil manner, within the confines of the constitutional provisions — albeit in an the emergency situation — and the universally agreed to standards, is when “the apple cart is overturned” and problems and issues arise and get out of hand.
That appears to be the case in our neighbourhood.
For us, we seem to have our work cut out for us in terms of lessons to be learnt.
It would really be remiss of us not to do so.
Edward Blakelock, Admiral Circle, Pacific Harbour
War veterans
I wonder if we still have any living war veterans who fought in the Solomons and Malayan campaign against the Japs during World War II.
One of my uncles who went to the Malay war died late last year.
May all their souls rest in peace.
I would love to see if our mainstream media can capture their stories (those who are still living among us) of the sacrifice they chose in order to save the current and future generations to come.
#Lest we forget.
Jioji Masivesi Cakacaka, Tadra-Votualevu, Nadi
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment I believe a recent study shows that about 50 per cent of women have experienced sexual harassment in their workplaces, and that number is increasing every year.
To the survivors, remember it’s not your fault or to be blamed if you are being sexually harassed in your workplace by those in power or higher authority.
Say no to sexual harassment which can even result in losing your job rather than being a sex slave to a sexual predator.
Shame to these sexual predators who camouflage themselves and claim to be honest human beings and men of principle.
Jioji Masivesi Cakacaka, Tadra-Votualevu, Nadi
Waste management
In apropos to “Agreement signed for waste collection service” (FT: 18/20) Premila Kumar, Minister for Local Government, Housing and Community Development showed a positive step by providing regular and efficient waste collection service to Nasinu area that came because of the result of a signed memorandum of agreement (MOA) between Suva City Council (SCC) and the Nasinu Town Council (NTC).
Similarly, if the collection service of other areas in Fiji may be extended to four or more times a week, that will keep the surrounding clean and hygienic.
Better services and an increase in the frequency of collection services will certainly have a positive impact on the masses because they are getting door-to-door efficient collection services.
The mentality of the masses will change for the positive good of the nation in order to reduce illegal dumping.
More advertisement and promotion should be given to the anti-litter campaign, and adverse impact if we do not abide by the directions.
Dr Mahendra Reddy, Minister for Environment has given several reminders to the public that littering is an offence that can be prosecuted.
Littering tarnishes the image of the nation and creates a threat to the environment by causing flooding, because of blocked waterways and leads to health problems.
Anti-litter campaign had a positive impact factor.
Moreover, daily radio message or warning against littering on all social media platforms especially radio “if you see anyone throwing rubbish/garbage out of a car call this number” is a highly efficient means to create awareness among many.
The public should refrain to throw rubbish in any public place.
Everyone should help Fiji’s Government to keep your neighbourhood, city and nation clean and safe.
This is also related to ethical upbringing as parents and elders should set an example for young ones to keep the area clean around them for better health and a better environment.
This will certainly help to make Fiji the cleanest country, not just in the Pacific but the entire world.
Dr Sakul Kundra, Lautoka
National summit
The acting Commissioner of Police was reported to have said that he would soon convene a national summit to discuss pressing and pertinent issues pertaining to combating crimes and the Fiji Police Force services delivery as a whole.
Frankly, I strongly believe that it’s a step in the right direction and it speaks volume of the depth of cognition that Mr Tudravu possesses, knowing fully well that the institution itself cannot fight crime alone thus needs input from members of the public.
I further believe that the summit is going to be the first of its kind.
It’s going to pay dividends.
I applaud the acting ComPol for his humility and realistic approach to addressing the laxity in their services delivery.
I cannot wait for the summit to take place so that I can contribute constructively.
Alipate Tuberi, Suva
New ‘special’ bus bay
I commend the efforts of Lautoka City Council for making provisions for a ‘special’ bus bay that ensures people with special needs will no longer have to wait in long lines to get on public transport.
I agree with my friend, Kailash Pillay, who is a leading kirtan artist and the head of the Lautoka School for Special Education, that this initiative was a great way to remove discrimination barriers surrounding people with special needs.
I also agree with him that it is important to create more awareness in society that the respect that our children get in school should also be given to people with special needs in our society.
Thank you once again, LCC!
I also accord a big vinaka vakalevu to the Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association, led by Letters to the Editor writer Narayan Reddy and the guru of the Letters to the Editor column, Allen Lockington, for going the extra mile to help families affected by COVID-19!
Allen looked fit and fine in the photo – no sign of exhaustion despite his daily services to the public!
Cheers!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
That video
I was sent a video of a popular secondhand clothing shop that opened in Suva recently.
Interesting that there was a huge crowd rushing into the store.
While some stores, places of worship and sporting grounds have strict restrictions on social distancing, the shop didn’t seem to have any.
Funny, nah.
Allen Lockington, Kava Place, Lautoka
Peace maker
Achieving peace is the goal of my life
Facing conflicts with peace in mind
As all I want is happiness and peace
For all enmity and animosity to cease
And I just came to make peace with you
Making sacrifices for peace to breakthrough
Trying to start peace negotiations with you
Leaving the past to rest in peace
Willing to listen to different views and opinions
Ready to forgive and remove all antagonism
For mutual understanding to flourish
Removing all anger, hatred and anguish
Peace builds, strengthens and restores life
Bringing happiness, harmony and tranquillity
And I have come as an ambassador of peace
To share love and care, and help all in need
Doing everything to make peace last forever
Praying nothing disturbs the peace ever
So that bitterness will give way to peace
Ensuring that happiness will surely increase
My mission in life is to achieve peace and harmony
But now I am leaving you in peace finally
Believing this has brought some peace at least
Praying for all hostile thoughts to be released
Hoping you make peace wherever possible
Filling the world with peace so admirable
And that will give me peace so valuable
So go ahead and make peace truly essential
(The poem is dedicated to International Day of Peace on September 21).
Maharaj Kumari Bhindi, LBE, Nasinu
Inner light
Where there is inner light, there is refulgent image.
Where there is refulgent image, there is illumination.
Where there is illumination, there is tranquillity.
Where there is tranquillity, there is peace.
Where there is peace, there is sanctity.
Where there is sanctity, there is faith.
Where there is faith, there resides peace.
Where there is peace, there inner light kindles.
Where inner light kindles, divinity radiates in an eternal circle
Bhagwanji Bhindi, Nasinu
Father Kevin Barr
With a heavy heart, I tried to digest the news of the passing away of Father Kevin Barr, who was a champion of workers’ rights, at the Home of Compassion.
I admired Father Barr and saw him as an inspiring person.
He was an outstanding leader, a man of integrity and a fighter for social justice, true democracy and human rights.
Overall, I was impressed with his work ethics, humble personality and good character — strong, courageous and who stood up to his principles.
Fiji has lost a man who loved working and fighting for the rights of the underprivileged.
I met him twice during the Fiji Trades Union Congress Biennial Congress and I was impressed with his passion and determination.
He never gave up as far as his work was concerned.
Rest in peace Father Kevin Barr and until that glorious morning, vinaka vakalevu sir for your commitment and dedication in serving Fiji and its citizens!
You’ll be sorely missed!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Australia’s border
It seems Australia will open its borders to allow more people to enter the country (ABC News) and its airlines promote regional/ local tourism by offering cheap airfares.
Dan Urai, Lautoka
Stray dogs
Although it was not an isolated incident, for once, the matter of stray dogs had claimed national headline status in June last year.
At that time, the Prime Minister had stated: “When I first heard about the stray dog attack on two-year-old Amari Whippy, my heart broke.”
The nation saw the pictures of the little girl recovering in hospital.
Unfortunately, one of us could be next to endure the experience of a vicious attack.
In June 2019, government ministries, local municipalities and animal welfare organisations joined hands to tackle the stray dog matter for eight weeks.
We fail to realise that this is an everyday problem throughout Fiji.
When it comes to matters of concern which need attention, I think actions from relevant authorities are complain oriented.
With stray dogs, it may be incident oriented.
Most stray dogs have owners.
They are left to roam the streets.
If only we could ask them: “Do you know where your owner is?”
Mohammed Imraz Janif, Natabua, Lautoka
Awesome legacy
Heavenly Father, in Jesus holy name we humble ourselves to thank you sincerely for the precious gift of the life of the Rev Father Kevin Barr.
An awesome legacy, he has now left behind.
A true champion for the poor, needy and downtrodden.
Against all odds he fought tirelessly for an acceptable fair minimum wage — “a David and Goliath story”.
A true friend of so many shoe-shine boys and men in the streets of the Capital City, Suva.
Sadly, towards the end of his faithful Earthly journey, his much-respected name was dragged “into the mud” with the unfortunate circumstances of reported misappropriation at his lifelong project at Lagilagi Housing.
You have done exceptionally well, faithful servant of God.
Take your place of honour with the Lord your God in Jesus’ company.
Your good deeds through life are too numerous to mention, Father Barr.
Go in perfect eternal peace and everlasting happiness.
Moce mada vakalailai, saka.
E keda qai sota tale e dua na siga ena vukui Jisu, na noda Turaga dau veilomani kei tinada, O Maria Daulato.
Ronnie Chang, Martintar, Nadi
Sad news
I’m saddened by the passing of Father Kevin Barr who was well known to many Fijians for his social work on volunteerism as a noble profession towards humanity.
He was very vocal on the eradication of poverty among all Fijians.
Thank you Father Barr for all you have done for Fijians during your lifetime and while most are saddened on your departure but we know that you are meeting your maker.
Rest in peace.
Jioji Masivesi Cakacaka, Tadra-Votualevu, Nadi
