The greenlight has been given to the Labasa Town Council to take charge of its community projects within the town boundary from this year.

The directive was given by the Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Local Government, Housing and Community Development Premila Kumar when she met committee members of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North.

During the meeting at Labasa Civic Centre on Wednesday evening she was told that since 2006 the committee led numerous community projects within Labasa Town boundary and it was still managing them.

Committee media liaison officer Vincent Sahayam said from the festival’s charity chest they had done many projects to benefit everyone in the Northern Division.

“Projects such as beautification of town, installation of digital clock near Labasa bus stand, children’s park, gym and currently we are raising funds to build Labasa’s first multipurpose hall,” Mr Sahayam said.

“We are kindly requesting if Labasa Town Council can take ownership of our projects once we hand over to them.”

Ms Kumar in response said the Friendly North Carnival was the star festival.

“It is by far the best organised in terms of accountability, transparency and they deliver what they promise to the people of the North,” Ms Kumar said.

“I assure you that your request will be considered as you are aware that we have new regulation in place for all festivals.

“Our ministry will support the festival in whatever ways we can.”

Edited by Percy Kean

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