Insurance Funds Used to Refurbish GCC Complex

The construction of the refurbished Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) complex in Nasova outside Suva was fully funded through insurance money. The original complex was destroyed in a fire in 2019.

GCC chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula yesterday confirmed that the insurance payout, totaling $6.5 million, was instrumental in financing the reconstruction.

The structural repairs included the modernising of facilities; and retaining the cultural integrity of the complex

He acknowledged the vital role played by the iTaukei Trust Fund, which worked diligently to ensure the claim process was successful.

“The building was insured, and they managed to secure the insurance money that paid for the entire project,” Ratu Viliame said.

“The consultants who were brought in did a good job. They fought hard to get this result.”

The GCC complex is a symbol of cultural and political significance for Fiji’s indigenous iTaukei people.

Ratu Viliame said iTaukei Trust Fund’s consultants have been pivotal as their efforts not only ensured a successful claims process but also expedited the rebuilding process, allowing the GCC complex to be restored.

“The consultants really put in a lot of effort,” Ratu Viliame said.

“They navigated through the insurance claim process and made sure everything was in order for us to get the funding needed. Without them, this might have taken a lot longer.”

The GCC was disbanded in 2012 by the previous Bainimarama government. The complex was constructed at its current location in Nasova in 2009 and officially opened by the late Turaga na Tui Vuda, Ratu Josefa Iloilo.

In 2023, when the coalition government came to power, the GCC was officially reinstated.

Reconstruction work started January last year.

Following the council’s establishment in 1876, the initial complex was constructed in Veiuto in 1958.

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