Four sites eyed for $2m Girmit museum

Four locations have been proposed as possible sites for the $2 million Girmit museum, which will honour the sacrifices and contributions of Girmitiyas in Fiji and abroad.

Project architect Ashok Bal Govind said the museum could be built in Nadi, Lautoka, Suva or Labasa.

He said the final location would be decided by the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs after public consultations being held around the country.

Mr Govind said public feedback and design proposals formed the first phase of the project.

“We have received wonderful submissions and I am impressed with the positive feedback from the Indo-Fijian masses on how they want the museum to appeal to the public,” he said.

He said the museum would be designed with consideration for religious and cultural values, including the treatment and display of sacred items.

“We have to think what items can be presented for viewing, what items are sacred and cannot be publically viewed.”

Speaking during a public consultation in Labasa yesterday, Mr Govind said there was strong interest from people in the North to have the museum established in Labasa.

However, he said factors including location suitability and land acquisition would determine the final decision.

“We have to consider the pros and cons which area suits the museum better,” he said.

Mr Govind said the long-term operation of the museum would also need to be considered, including staffing, maintenance and other expenses.

He said an entry levy could be introduced to support the museum’s ongoing costs.

“The entry levy will cater for the day-to-day expenses of managing the museum to ensure its upkeep,” he said.