$1.6M paid to Matanikorovatu of Kalabu village in Naitasiri

$1.6 million has been paid to the Mataqali Matanikorovatu of Kalabu village in Naitasiri.

Speaking at the handover of the cheque yesterday, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said this represents the outstanding royalty payments for the Laqere Government Quarry commonly known as the Nasinu Quarry which began in 1931.

He said they are here to correct the mistakes and neglect of the past governments of depriving the landowners of royalty payments.

The Prime Minister said the government is determined to be fair and just to all Fijians including giving owners of the land proper royalties for minerals and materials extracted from their land and this is now incorporated in the constitution.

Bainimarama added that it is no longer something that is optional and no longer a gift, it is an absolute right and he can promise that nothing like what happened in Kalabu will ever happen again.

The Prime Minister hopes that the landowners will use the money wisely to improve their lives and those of their family.

He said this demonstrates the truth of what he has been saying all over Fiji that native land is absolutely safe and even it is used for some purpose, the owners get compensated.

He added that if it is no longer required for public purposes it’s returned to the landowners and this is guaranteed under the constitution.

Meanwhile, 72-year-old Paula Raiwiriwiri who is the leader of the clan said the money will be shared equally amongst the 74 members.