Reply to shed at Taveuni & Natuvu

Ismail Yusuf, Deuba

Shariff Shah's letter on September 10, 2017, in The Sun, needs all the backing and support for a decent all weather waiting shed and provision of convenience for both sexes including the always neglected handicapped citizens.

In the 1970s there were if I am not wrong one Chaudhary Hans Raj who lived past the present jetty and the other was Nanka Prasad of Loa, both from Buca Bay. These two were boat builders, engineers and also owners/captains of their ferry boats, who had family members or retired captains to do daily runs from Natuvu/Waiyevo/Natuvu. They provided valuable services to the general public and mind you they also met the requirements of the Marine Department as far as safety etcetera. Savusavu had marine inspectors who were appointed by the Marine Department to inspect and pass the vessels.

I understand there are three ferry companies operating carrying trucks, cars, cargo and passengers by the 100's almost every day. Some 40-47 years have gone and the frequency, number of passengers and cargo have dramatically increased. The Ministers with their busy schedules fly Suva/Taveuni/Suva and that could be a reason for an oversight, but what about the local District Officer, Provincial Administrator, Road Supervisor who also check the jetties and landings? You apply for a small tea-room licence the Health Inspector will ask where the toilets are.

Despite being on the wet side of Fiji, I am certain that whoever is the Minister in charge will look into this important issue immediately (why I said that because they all read the Fiji Sun) and the travelling people of Taveuni would not have to wait till the next election.

Have faith in the present Government; what they have done speaks for itself. Dry provisions are around the corner thus helping Mr Shah not to get wet and slip into the bushes.