Yaqona abuse hurting productivity: Seruiratu

Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has warned that the abuse of 'yaqona' (kava) is quietly undermining productivity and contributing to poverty in Fiji.

Speaking in Parliament during debate on the President’s address, Mr Seruiratu said the impact of excessive yaqona consumption was not being discussed enough despite its effect on communities and young people.

“We had raised the issue of illegal drugs, but so little has been discussed about the impact of socially accepted drugs, yaqona in particular, and their effect on our youth, and our population in general.”

Mr Seruiratu said policymakers must also consider social factors that hinder youth development.

“Whilst we may be able to device the best policies for our youth, we must also give serious thought to matters that negate their development.”

He warned that the overconsumption of yaqona was becoming a serious social issue.

“It’s a silent killer within our communities, and a major contributor to low productivity and increased poverty levels in society.”

Mr Seruiratu said the problem should be addressed with the same seriousness as illegal drug abuse.

“Just as with illegal drugs, Mr Speaker, Sir, serious effort should be given to how the abuse of, and overconsumption of yaqona can be controlled.”

He called for a coordinated national response involving different sectors of society.

“As with illegal drugs, this requires a whole of nation approach including Government, the lotu (church), the religious organisations and the vanua if this issue is to be contained.”