Josaia Driso sat in his wheelchair at the Tropik Wood Complex at Drasa in Lautoka on Friday and heaped praises on Government and Fiji Pine Group of Companies.

The turaga ni mataqali (head of the clan) of Mota, from Nasolo in Nailaga, Ba said now people could see the goodness in the work of Government and the company.

His comments came during the distribution of Fiji Pine Lease Security Bonus payment of $1.5 million to pine landowning units by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

His sister, Naomi Leba, who went up to receive the cheque from Mr Bainimarama said now receiving bonuses has made them happy.

Mr Driso said a few years ago they received nothing because the company was struggling.

“The change of management has been the difference,” he said.

“The vision of Government and especially the PM has turned the company around.”

Samu Waqavou of mataqali Lewenaqa of Emuri in Nadroga said they were happy with their bonus payment and also thanked Mr Bainimarama, Government and the company.

Peni Narube, of mataqali Kubulau from Navutu in Nadroga echoed similar sentiments.

“Government has made us happy with the way they shaped the company,” he said.

Amisai Raitala, of the tokatoka Nalibu of mataqali Leweinawaqa said it was good that they were now receiving their bonuses for the pine planted on their land.

“I want to thank the Government for all they have done and also the company.”

Many other landowners and members of different mataqali’s who were approached said they were happy and most said they would continue supporting the pine industry.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama with a landowner on August 4, 2017. Photo: Charles Chambers

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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