Though the consultation for draft village by-laws in the 14 provinces has been completed, the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs will continue to reach out and create awareness.

This was confirmed by the Permanent Secretary of iTaukei Affairs Naipote Katonitabua at the Tailevu Provincial Council Meeting in Bau Island yesterday.

Mr Katonibau said a team was now compiling all the submissions before handing it over to the ministry. Recommendations will all be compiled by the iTaukei Affairs Board. This process is expected to take at least two months.

Mr Katonibau said from the provinces, a lot of people supported the by-laws, but there were a number of issues that needed to be sorted to be in line with ministries and departments.

He said the village by-laws would take their own course after submission to the iTaukei Affairs Board.

Bau chief Ratu Joji Cakobau, son of the late Vunivalu, Ratu Sir George Cakobau, said more clarity regarding the by-laws is needed.

“It is about the laws needed in a village. They will need to work with the Police and Government and they will advise on the laws in the villages,” Ratu Joji said.

‘By-laws in a village are important, they are good, but with this consultation villagers must work together and give their input.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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