No Plans To Introduce Licence Fees: Minister

The Ministry of Local Government says there are no plans to increase or introduce any licence fees for vendors as such a step would be against the Government’s initiative.

Minister Premila Kumar said a copy of a paper prepared for an internal consultation was leaked to the media and subsequently published in the Fiji Times.

It was reported that vendors would be paying fees up to $2000.

“It is unfortunate that a consultant’s document intended for internal discussion has been released to the media,” Ms Kumar said.

“The document is not aligned with the Fijian Government’s vision and policy, and should be disregarded.

“The ministry does not undertake decisions based on a consultant’s draft report. The consultant’s report will undergo rigorous consultations in order for it to be in line with the Fijian Government’s vision of empowering the grassroot communities.”

Ms Kumar emphasised the need for thorough consultations and appropriate consideration before any decision was made.

“The ultimate objective of reviewing the laws pertaining to markets is to ensure that market vendors and the general public receive the very best of services from the respective municipalities,” she said

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