The total cost of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) meeting is $286,000.

Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu clarified this on Friday contrary to media reports stating a cost of $400,000.

“The iTaukei Trust Fund will cover the cost of the two-day meeting with a funding of $189,000. This includes all logistical costs,” Mr Vasu said.

He added that the iTaukei Affairs Board took care of the preparation expenses, which encompassed the renovation of the meeting house – Naulunivuaka amounting to a total of $97,000.

The Minister also highlighted that the cabinet had approved the iTaukei Affairs (Great Council of Chiefs) Regulations 2023 on May 9.

These regulations specifically govern the proceedings of the meeting held in Bau, establishing a legal framework for its operations.

“The Regulation lists four categories of membership. There are three ex-officio and they are His Excellency the President, the Prime Minister and the Minister for iTaukei Affairs,” he said.

“The Minister may invite six members. The Provincial Councils may invite three chiefs from each province and three members from the Council of Rotuma representing the chiefs of Rotuma.”

Mr Vasu had received nominations from 13 Provincial Councils and three from the Council of Rotuma, with the exception of Namosi, which would not be represented in the meeting.

Solar

The residents of Bau Island are thankful to the government for the installation of a solar panel at the Naulunivuaka hall.

Chief Herald Na Tuinitoga, Aisea Komaitai, said the commissioning of the solar panel has been scheduled to take place on Monday.

“We are immensely grateful because we did not have to bear any cost, and this installation will be of great benefit, particularly in our efforts to combat climate change,” Mr Komaitai said.

He further mentioned that previously, the Naulunivuaka hall relied on cash power, but now it will no longer be needed.

 Story By:  Wati Talebula-Nuku

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