Driving licences and rugby

Problem solved

THEY have finally gotten rid of the head coach of the Mickey Mouse game. There was no due process followed to appoint the new coach. It was done the traditional Fijian and the Pacific Way on a wave of exuberance. They did not wait for the return of “Moses”.

The perception is that all the problems in the Mickey Mouse game are now solved. Everyone can breathe a big sigh of relief.

The sky is not going to fall, and the world will now not come to an end during the Paris Olympics. All it took was five minutes. The exuberance is palpable. All the letters in the papers are going to be so predictable.

The same exuberance was there at the change of government, remember? And here we are today. All the problems in Fiji have been solved!

The same principles apply here. I have always wondered what they will do about the referees in each game? The referees are always a big problem, aren’t they?

But whatever the issues, one thing is unquestionable, the people of Fiji are truly blessed.

JAN NISSAR

Sydney, NSW, Australia

Put the knives away!

FINALLY, the curtains fell and good sense prevailed. It is never easy to make tough decisions.

Thank you Ben Gollings for your efforts. Admittedly, after 19 frustrating tournaments; our patience sorely tested, the end had to come, amicably, I hope.

We wish you well in your future endeavours.

Fiji welcomes new 7s head coach, Osea Kolinisau... a successful Olympic gold medallist. Let us all support him. Give him the chance he needs to prove himself. Gollings had 19.

(Please put all knives away).

RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi

Driving licences

I CONCUR with the views expressed by the national president of the Fiji Driving Association Deo Narayan on the above issue (FT 07/03). The number of accidents and deaths on our road is alarming and some sort of drastic action is needed immediately. On one hand we have a drug issue which is definitely out of control and on the other the standard of driving on our Fiji roads. We all know that corruption is a common issue throughout the world and Fiji is no exception.

I know this and while working in Nadi years back, my letter was published in The Fiji Times on this particular issue. While shopping at Nadi market on a Saturday morning, I overheard a group of three people discussing about driving licences. One of them said if you give me $80, your driving licence is guaranteed and if you make it $120, it will be delivered to you at home, maybe without going for a driving test. I could recognise two of them by face only.

Even two market vendors didn’t know their names. I am talking about early eighties and the dollar value was quite high.

Even nowadays, I am told that some of our traffic police officers who are supposed be the protectors of law get easily tempted towards bribery. When one is caught for any offence on the road, these officers purposely delay to issue a ticket and once a $20 note is shown, the deal is done. There is no witness there, so how can we handle such corruption? I heard few taxidrivers discussing this in their own circle, therefore, I decided to forward this for public knowledge.

Finally I believe unless there is some sort of severe punishment given to these offenders once they are caught, nothing would improve.

Punishments such as cancellations of a driver’s licence, fines of $500 and above, suspension or termination from work if public officers are concerned.

VIJAY MAHARAJ

Sydney, Australia

Special case

IT appears some drivers of government vehicles have special dispensation. My spouse and I headed to Suva on Tuesday morning, March 5, to celebrate a very special Catholic priest’s 90th birthday.

It was around 9.24am, in the general Navua area, approaching vehicle registration GT45# (I have the number plate), overtook through double lines.

As a retiree, past 70 of earthly existence, the standard of driving on many roads is poorly worrying.

Government vehicle drivers should be role models on all our roads.

I highlight my close encounter with serious concern. I feel this driver, and others like him, need immediate counselling. He needs to improve his driving skills and follow road rules.

RONNIE CHANG

Martintar, Nadi

Getting a licence!

WITH the disturbing number of vehicular accidents, reckless driving and driver attitudes experienced on our roads, it’s no surprise that incompetent drivers are being issued with licences through bogus means (FT 07/03).

It has been revealed that LTA customer service officers have allotted licences to thousands of drivers after accepting bribes (tea and lunch money as we usually say).

There were also discussions between the Fiji Police Force (another organisation peppered with corruption and moral decay) and the Land Transport Authority to terminate the licenses of those who drink and drive (fijivillage. com).

I highly propose that the LTA first get their own house in order and fire untrustworthy staff who are involved in this intricate exercise of accepting kickbacks.

Such fraudulent practice is only compromising the lives of other road users and pedestrians. I am also expressly concerned over how so many of these young taxidrivers have managed to obtain a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence in the first instance.

Judging by their driving mannerisms and conduct, well all I can say is “brutal!” .

NISHANT SINGH

Lautoka

Donation request

I AM writing to bring to light a concerning issue that has been plaguing our community in Fiji: the illegal solicitation of donations as a means of making money.

It has come to my attention that certain individuals or groups are exploiting the goodwill of our citizens by falsely claiming to be in need and requesting donations under false pretences. This unethical practice not only undermines the trust within our society but also has detrimental effects on those who genuinely require assistance.

It is disheartening to see individuals taking advantage of the generosity of others for personal gain. In light of these distressing developments, I urge all members of our community to exercise caution when approached for donations.

Here are some important steps to consider before providing any form of financial assistance. Check for related documents: Before parting with your hard-earned money, always ask for relevant documentation or proof of the individual or organisation’s legitimacy.

This may include permits, registration certificates, or any other official documents verifying their status.

Verify with relevant authorities: Take the extra step to verify the authenticity of the documents provided and the legitimacy of the request for donation with the relevant authorities. This could involve contacting government agencies, charitable organisations, or local authorities to confirm the legitimacy of the appeal. Once these essential checks have been carried out and it has been established that the request for donation is genuine and lawful, then and only then should any contributions be made.

It is crucial for us as a community to remain vigilant and ensure that our kindness and generosity are not exploited. By taking these precautions, we can safeguard against fraudulent activities and ensure that our donations reach those who are truly in need.

Let us stand together in solidarity against such unethical practices and uphold the values of integrity and compassion that define us as a society.

NAVNEET RAM (TD)

Lautoka