$191,000 has been allocated to host the two-day Great Council of Chiefs meeting in Pacific Harbour.
Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu while confirming this in a media conference today said that the i-Taukei Trust Fund will look after all the expenses and no taxpayers’ money will be used for this event.
He said the first agenda of the inaugural GCC meeting after its reinstatement in November last year will see the appointment of the Chairperson and Vice-Chair.
Vasu said these leaders will hold office for three years and up to two consecutive terms only.
He said the leaders will steer the council through its renewed mandate with wisdom, foresight, and a deep commitment to the welfare of the i-Taukei people.
Vasu said the reinstatement of the GCC is a testament to the Government’s commitment to the nation’s resilience, dedication to unity in diversity and its collective vision for a future where tradition and progress walk hand in hand.
He said it is a step forward ensuring that the voices of the i-Taukei are heard and respected in the national dialogue.
In preparation for this meeting, the GCC Regulation has been issued.
The Regulation details the selection process and criteria for the members, ensuring transparency and fairness.
The Minister said that it is designed not only to uphold the integrity of the GCC and to foster unity and collaboration among traditional leaders and people.
“We have received nominations from the 14 provinces, including Rotuma. After going through our internal process, the names have been submitted to His Excellency the President for appointment as required under section 3(1) of the i-Taukei Affairs Act.”
“The reinstatement of the GCC was accompanied by some consequential amendments to the i-Taukei Trust Fund Act. The amendments restored the original objective of the Trust Fund which is to ensure the financial autonomy of the GCC.”
