Chiefs raise concern

TRADITIONAL leaders in Vanua Levu are worried that the increasing number of villagers leaving for the seasonal workers program, saying it would affect the village obligation, including the possible breakdown of the family foundation.

A Macuata chief, Ratu Ilisaniti Malodali, said while the opportunity was great, the impacts would still be felt by villagers back at home, especially the elders.

Ratu Ilisaniti, the Tui Nadogo said the saddest part was having families live a life apart from each other because one of the parents was abroad for work.

“A lot of married people are also leaving Macuata to work in Australia and some in New Zealand but our biggest worry are the families especially if small children are left behind with their dads or mums,” he said.

“That has actually happened so when the mothers travel, the father’s duties of farming to rake in money for the family are affected because he has to stay home to look after the children.

“Sure these people go and earn an income, but we have relatives and families there who are not sending back home what is expected of them because they also have commitments that side.”

Ratu Ilisaniti said the foundation of the family core, created by God should always be kept intact.

Tui Bua Ratu Makutu Nagagavoka said

A lot of married people are also leaving ...

– Ratu Ilisaniti Malodali

although not many villagers had left Bua for the program, the contribution by young villagers towards development projects would certainly be affected.

“In most villages, it’s the young people that have been tasked to lead development projects and if they leave for work overseas, it will go back to the elderly and the older people,” he said.

“This is fine but it’s different when the young villagers take over because they do most of the village farm projects such as yaqona farms that generate income for the village.

“This also leaves a gap between the elderly and the younger generation in ensuring that our customs, traditions and lifestyle is passed down.”

This issue was also raised in Cakaudrove during The People’s Alliance party leader Sitiveni Rabuka’s visit to Buca Village recently.

Villager Poasa Vulaono said too many young people were leaving the villages.

Mr Rabuka said these young people had contributed greatly to the nation through remittances.