GCC Meeting Costs about $200,000

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has revealed the signifi­cant costs associated with its recent meeting, with chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula acknowl­edging that funding for the event came from the iTaukei Trust Fund.

Ratu Viliame confirmed that the two­day event cost nearly $200,000.

"It's no secret," said Ratu Viliame.

"The meeting has been costly; and we are mindful of that. We understand the financial implications, but the need for this gathering was too impor­tant to overlook."

The meeting, last held at Yatu Lau La­goon Resort in March, was held at the Grand Pacific Hotel due to concerns over the suitability of the venue.

''Yatu Lau wasn't conducive for our needs, so we had to look for another venue. The Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) turned out to be an excellent choice," he said.

Ratu Viliame said the next GCC meeting was scheduled for next May; with hopes that it would be held at the council's new complex, which is un­der redevelopment.

"It will provide a more suitable and sustainable venue," he said.

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