August 26 2016

Cyclone Winston: Fiji Struggles To

Rebuild Six Months After Storm
Devastated The Country

Mom, over the years,

I've watched
the wonderful ways
you've made life special
for our family...
the moments of love
and laughter,
the traditions
and memories
we'll carry with us
throughout our lives.
But most of all
I've watched the way
you've shown us
the true meaning of love
in everything you do.

Voreqe Bainimarama

Happy Mother's Day

Victims of Cyclone Winston in Fiji

are struggling to rebuild their lives six
months after the category five storm
devastated large parts of the country.
Villages along the north coast of
Fiji's main island Viti Levu were
hit hard by Winston, but a shortage
of building materials means people
have been unable to repair their
houses.
In Narakoso village Lusiano Adikoro
lives in a tent beside her partially
rebuilt home.
"I'm not really enjoying my stay in
this tent. I'm facing hardship. I'd prefer
staying in my own house," she said.
The chairman of the local disaster

committee Asipeli Navatayali said

people would like to be doing more
repair work, but they cannot get their
hands on building materials.
"The only thing we need is the materials
from the hardware just to bring it as
early as possible so that we can rebuild
our house and finish it," he said.
Fears rise as cyclone season draws near
Mr Navatayali said people are
becoming increasingly nervous and
frustrated as the next cyclone season
draws near.
"Now people are worried because
November is closer. The cyclone
season in Fiji is November to April.
Just last night there's heavy rain, you

can see there's a flood down there," he

said.
"All the people are still living in the
shed. What will happen if another
cyclone comes?"
In nearby Nabukadra village the
situation is even more desperate.
Even if the villagers could find a supply
of building materials they do not have
any money to purchase them.
Instead they have salvaged pieces of
corrugated iron and other debris and
they are using a single chainsaw to cut
pieces of wood from fallen trees.
'Six months with no government
assistance'
Nabukadra's chief Raivolita Malani

said the village is also running low

on food after Winston destroyed their
gardens and fishing grounds.
"We have been asking assistance from
the government, it's now six months
after the cyclone but nothing has
done," he said.
But there are some bright spots amid
the devastation.
In Naocobau village only one concrete
house was left standing after Cyclone
Winston swept through.
But a South Korean Christian group
has brought supplies and volunteers to
build 25 new homes.
Naocobau elder Ratu Moape Liutaki
admits his community is far more
fortunate than the surrounding villages.
"I can just say that we were really lucky
because out of everything we got not
help, this group decided to come and
help us," he said.
It is not just remote villages that are
struggling to pick up the pieces after
Cyclone Winston.
The town of Rakiraki has several
hardware stores but it is still dotted by
damaged houses, many covered with
tarpaulins to keep the rain out.
Resident Vinesh Naidu was luckier
than most.
It only took him two months to get
the materials to put a temporary roof
on his house but now he cannot find a
carpenter to finish the job.
"I've already got the materials here but
it's very hard to get the carpenters here
because the carpenters are still building
houses and the price for carpenters is
high," he said.
"What used to be $25-$30 a day has
now changed to $40-50 an hour."
Mr Naidu lost his job as a fitter and
turner after cyclone damage forced the
closure of the Rakiraki's sugar mill.
He says many people are still
traumatised by the impact of Cyclone
Winston.
"Wherever we sit down and if we are
talking about something else but this
topic of cyclone comes in, somehow it
comes in," he said.
"How it happened, where were you,
what were you doing."

August 26, 2016

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Fiji News

August 26, 2016

Fiji Police Checking On Travel Agencies Mentioned In

NZ Court
Police are now conducting a check if
there are any reports of travel agencies
misleading people to go on visitors
visas and to work in New Zealand.
There is no confirmation at this stage
on whether the travel agencies based
in Suva that have been mentioned in a
NZ human trafficking court case, will
be taken to task for these alleged illegal
acts by our authorities.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro
says the Director of CID is currently
checking all the divisions.
It has been revealed in the NZ court
that more than a dozen Fijian nationals
were lured to New Zealand under
false promises of high wages but were
forced to work for little or no money.
46-year-old Faroz Ali has denied 15
counts of trafficking people to New
Zealand and 16 counts of aiding and
abetting people to enter or remain in
the country unlawfully.
Its just the second time a human
trafficking case has reached trial in
New Zealand.
The media reports that Crown
prosecutor Luke Clancy told the
court that Ali had scammed 15 Fijian
nationals and had deliberately and

repeatedly flouted the law".

The court heard that Alis wife and
sisterinlaw both lived in Suva,
running travel agencies in the capital
and advertising New Zealand working
holiday schemes.
The advertisements promised approved
applicants the chance to work in New
Zealand for wages of $17 NZ per hour.
They were also promised working
visas and accommodation.
In return the agencies charged
the workers hundreds, sometimes
thousands of dollars.
When the Fijians arrived in New
Zealand, throughout 2014 and 2015,
they found the work was different to
what they had expected.
The workers were paid little if they
were paid at all and were housed in
crowded conditions which they were
made to pay for.
The working visas they were promised
were nonexistent and the workers
were given visitors visas which had no
provisions for work.
After the jury was selected, Ali
admitted 18 charges of underpaying
workers, and eight charges of aiding
and abetting workers to breach the

Faroz Ali
conditions of their visa.
Peter Broad said the defences central
All of the 15 Fijian workers will give issue would be the state of Alis mind
evidence, as well as another worker at the time, and the fact he wasnt in
who was an illegal over-stayer.
Fiji when the promises were made to
In a short opening address Alis lawyer, the workers.

Whos Going To Look After Us Now - Parents

Pillays lament loss of son, swept away

by river currents
Parents are lamenting the loss of their
only son to the Sigatoka River.
They ask: Whos going to look after
us now?
A distraught Sadasiwan Pillay, was
lost for words, trying to come to grips,
with the death of 30-year-old labourer
Avinesh Waran Pillay.
Avinesh was an employee of a passion
fruit company in Sigatoka.
A Police team from the Sigatoka found
his body on Sunday.
Mr Pillay said, It is really painful to
hear the news of my only son to have
left us too early.
He is my only son and was the sole
bread winner of the family, he took
care of us since we are both sickly and
elderly, he said.
Avinesh was the youngest of four
siblings and looked after his parents.
Mrs Pillay was still in shock.
She vividly remembered his voice
before he left the home that Sunday
afternoon, Mum make sure you take
your medicine on time.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said
Avinesh was trying to cross the river to

From Left:Father Sadasiwan Pillay (72) and Mother Yalamma (62) with a photo of the late Avinesh Waran Pillay at
Nadrala settlement in Nadroga.
find transport to visit his brother-in-law happened.
more vigilant in trying to cross rivers
in Sigatoka Valley when the incident The Police are advising the public to be and creeks during this rainy period.

A man charged with manslaughter was

acquitted by the High Court in Lautoka
last Thursday. Justice Aruna Aluthge
said he was satisfied with the defence
and the assessors verdict that driver
Mohammed Farun Yakub was not

guilty of manslaughter.
I concur with the unanimous opinion
of the assessors and find the accused
not guilty of manslaughter, Justice
Aluthge said
It was alleged that on December 8,

Mohammed Yakub Cleared Of Manslaughter

2009, Yakub unlawfully killed Suresh
Chandra by an omission to exercise his
duty of care over an inanimate object
when he switched on the bus causing it
to move forward and hit the deceased.
There were no eyewitness who saw

Yakub starting the bus or sitting in the

drivers seat at the time of the accident.
Yakub had stated to Police that the bus
had started on its own and that he had
intervened to save the people who were
walking in-front of the bus.

August 26, 2016

Fiji News

778.278.4088

Bid To Increase Access

Welcome to the Reserve Bank of
Fiji's Public Awareness column. In
our previous articles we introduced
the importance of Financial Inclusion
in contributing to economic growth,
financial stability and reducing poverty.
This week, we will discuss Fiji's
Financial Inclusion Strategic Plan.
Last month the Governor of the Reserve
Bank, Barry Whiteside, who is also the
Chairman of the National Financial
Inclusion Taskforce officially, launched
Fiji's Financial Inclusion Strategic
Plan.
The five-year strategic plan is aimed
at advancing financial inclusion in
Fiji through a collaborative and coordinated approach.
Fiji is one of many countries in the
past decade that have recognized the
importance of financial inclusion as a
development agenda.
A World Bank study in 2012 counted
over 60 countries with established
formal targets and strategic plans for
financial inclusion.
Fiji's National Financial Inclusion
Strategic Plan is linked to the
Government's mid and long-term
development plans.
This document is very important as it
specifically focuses on the development
of financial inclusion and allows all
stakeholders to align their activities to
this plan.
This strategic plan is a road map
for stakeholders to work together in
improving access, usage and quality of
financial services and products to the
underserved in Fiji.
The overall target of the new Strategic
Plan is to increase access (and usage) to
formal financial services and products.
The 2015 national financial services
demand side survey data and supply
side data have been used in the
formulation of Fiji's second Financial
Inclusion Strategic Plan.
These provide a snapshot of the current
state of financial inclusion in Fiji, and
show areas where greater attention is
needed in moving forward.
The Demand Side Survey showed that
64 per cent of the adult population
already has access and the target is to
increase this number to 85 per cent (or
an additional 130,000 adults) by 2020.
Recognizing the important role that
Fijian women contribute to society the
roadmap specifies that at least 50 per
cent are to be women. Priority is also
given to those living with disabilities,
youths and those living in rural and
maritime areas.
The vision of the new plan is
"Improving the livelihoods of Fijians
through inclusive financial services".
This simply means that irrespective of
their social or economic status, gender
or age, every Fijian should have access
to a range of appropriate and affordable
financial services and products.
To the financially excluded population,
having access and usage of financial
services and products opens up

opportunities for a better and higher

living standard.
It enables them to plan ahead and
better manage their finances to put
food on the table, save and invest for
a better future, build a house or protect
their loved ones and belongings from
an unexpected disaster or crisis.
Having access to financial services and
products is seen as a first, but crucial,
step.
For real benefits and impact customers
need to be actively using them as well.
To be able to do this requires a level
of financial competency. This is
fundamental to achieving the overall
goal. Hence, the extent of access and
the frequency of usage given the level
of financial competency determine
financial inclusion deepening or the
depth of financial inclusion in Fiji.
In developing the strategies for the new
financial inclusion Strategic Plan, due
care was taken to consult widely.
A national consultation workshop
was organized by the Reserve Bank
of Fiji and the Pacific Financial
Inclusion Program in November
2015 to seek the views and buy in of
relevant stakeholders in developing
the strategies to advance financial
inclusion in Fiji.
Participants at the workshop noted a
diversity of needs and barriers that
prevented Fijians, especially the low
income and the poor from not using or
being offered formal financial services
and products.
It was noted that apart from geography,
social and cultural practices and
norms, there were other factors that
contributed to this.
These included the need to further
develop and empower women, youth
and those living with disabilities in
our communities so that they have
the required leadership roles and
entrepreneurial skills to actively
participate in economic development,
whether this is through micro, small or
medium enterprises or formal career
and managerial development.
The financial infrastructure which
includes the policies and regulatory
environment which service providers
operate should be innovative.
This will enable and incentivize
financial service providers to develop
and deliver a range of affordable
financial services and products that are
attractive and suitable for the needs of
our people.
Particular attention must be given to
those living in rural areas as well as low
income groups. New players should
be encouraged to enter the market to
provide services where needs are not
being met.
Digital Financial Services and the use
of technology are recognized as key to
the further advancement of financial
inclusion.
This means less reliance on using cash
or making of cash payments in the
future.

There is a need to promote digital

financial services in retail payments
through e-money channels and other
modern devices such as Near Field
Communication devices which can
improve access and wider participation
of those that are underserved.
This should bring about cost efficiency
and effectiveness in the payment
systems. It is also recognized that
consumer awareness and protection is
very important in taking this forward.
New and appropriate products and
designs will also add to the success
of this strategy. New and innovative
products tailored to the needs of our
people are important and financial
service providers need to focus on the
requirements of customers.
However, to ensure there is a
sustainable demand for these products
and services, it is important that they
are accompanied by basic financial
education and awareness and consumer
protection. Financial literacy and
consumer protection will continue
to be the foundation of our financial
inclusion plan. Financial education has
been successfully incorporated in the
school curriculum of the Ministry of
Education from year 1 to year 12. With
the adult population however, financial
literacy education will continue. Going
forward, this plan will also be looking
at the introduction of entrepreneurial
skills at secondary and tertiary levels
of education in Fiji.

Given the challenges we have with

low population density in rural and
remote areas, it is really important
to have effective public and private
partnerships for cost sharing and
sustainable and effective financial
inclusion outreach. Hence, the success
of a financial inclusion agenda hinges
on a collaborative and partnership
model and what has been developed
over the past five years will continue
to be strengthened over the next five
years.
The co-ordination and reporting of the
progress of strategies will be undertaken
by the National Financial Inclusion
Taskforce. The Reserve Bank of Fiji
provides the leadership and secretariat
for the Taskforce; tracks and monitors
the overall performance indicators and
targets. These are reported annually to
all stakeholders.
To assist with the monitoring and
evaluation of the National Financial
Inclusion Strategic Plan, a set of
core indicators have been developed
to measure the progress of financial
inclusion efforts in Fiji and bench mark
Fiji's progress against other countries
around the world.
The planned monitoring and evaluation
framework will have a higher degree
of accountability and transparency
and motivation by all stakeholders to
achieve the goals and targets set out
in the 2016 -2020 National Financial
Inclusion Strategic Plan.

The Bank of Baroda Fiji continues to

invest in expanding its infrastructure to
offer better services to its customers.
It opened its 16th ATM machine
installed along Victora Parade in Suva.
Baroda chief executive Fiji Operations,
Govindsing Babusing Rajput, Barodas
target is to have at least 17 ATMs
installed this year with plans for more
later in years to come.
At the beginning of this year, we had
12 ATMs and so we want to open five
more ATMs this year. We will plan
more next year, Mr Rajput said.
The bank will be installing and opening
another ATM in Namaka, Nadi, soon.
The ATM was opened by Governor
of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Barry

Whiteside.
This is a sign of their increasing
customer service. It is very important
for us in terms of investing in
technology. We have always wanted
the banks to go that way, he said.
Its part of financial inclusion as well.
But its a nice location here and it is
very important for the Bank of Baroda
itself to increase its service to the
customers.
Mr Whiteside said it was good to
note that each bank is doing its own
investment.
The older banks have always been
investing in technology and to get more
ATM machines and EFTPOS machines.
So Fiji is developing in that way.

Baroda Expands ATM

Network Further

Times Fiji News

info@gobizz.ca

August 26, 2016

'The Nation Is Going Nuts!' Fiji's Sevens Stars Given

Homecoming To Remember

There are homecomings -- and then

there's the welcome afforded Fiji's allconquering Olympic heroes.
"We knew it was going to be crazy
but not this crazy," Fiji's rugby sevens
captain Captain Osea Kolinisau told
journalists as the country's heroes
returned home from Rio Sunday with a
Bank Holiday having been declared in
their honor for the following day.
Thousands lined the streets as Fiji's
gold medalists -- the first time the
Pacific Islanders had won an Olympic
medal of any color -- touched down
after their heroics.
Fiji's men's team was one of the stories
of Rio 2016, living up to its tag as
favorite while producing a brand of
thrilling rugby which entertained a
whole new audience.
As the team coach negotiated roads
filled with well wishers in Nadi and
then capital city Suva, the enormity of
the team's achievement became clear.
Speaking to CNN before heading home,
Kolinisau said the team's victory at the
first ever rugby sevens event to be held
at the Olympics was something which
would stay with him for the rest of his life.
"The nation is going nuts -- it's crazy,"
he told CNN.
"The way we played was the way we

wanted to show the world -- for me

it's highest achievement personally in
rugby and a sporting arena.
"I never dreamed of being in an
Olympics and being an Olympian let
alone winning a gold medal.
"It's an achievement which will stay
with me for the rest of my life. It means
a lot to the nation, it's our first medal - a
gold medal
"We have been coming to the Olympics
since 1956 and hadn't won a medal so
to get a medal is unbelievable."
Fiji's rugby players arrived in Rio with
fans expecting them to win a medal -and show the kind of rugby which has
made them such a joy to watch over the
years.
After winning the 2015/16 world
series, the pressure was on Fiji and
it's English coach Ben Ryan, whose
success led to him being awarded the
Order of Fiji, the highest honorary title
that can be awarded under the Order as
well as a nice bonus of $14,700.
Speaking to CNN before leaving for
Rio, Ryan had described the Olympics
as his team's "Everest."
That they scaled it so easily, particularly
in winning the final match 43-7 against
Great Britain, was a testament to all
involved.

"We were a good news story for world

rugby," Ryan told CNN.
"We're a small country who hadn't won
a medal with small resources and we
knocked over the bigger opponents and
played in an amazing style.
"I think we engaged so many people
who had not watched rugby before."

Free buses were laid on for fans to

attend the welcome home ceremony
with players being made officers of
the Order of Fiji and rewarded with
$14,700 each.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama
told reporters that "the win has inspired
people from around the world."

MOBIMEDIA International has signed

a ground-breaking agreement with Idea
Cellular to provide a fully-managed
music streaming solution to India's
third largest telecommunications
carrier.
Mobimedia
International's
rapid
expansion across South East Asia
has resulted in the company entering
Myanmar, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
in 2016 alone, bringing its footprint to
33 markets globally.
Mobimedia Fiji's office said the
digital entertainment and technology
company honed its expertise delivering
revenue accretive solutions to carriers
in developing and emerging markets,
making it the ideal partner for Idea
Cellular's first foray into music

streaming.
With revenue in excess of $5 billion;
a market share of 18.2 per cent and
a subscriber base of more than 165
million, Idea Cellular is one of the top
three mobile operators in the Indian
market and the sixth-largest operator in
the world.
The partnership marks Mobimedia
International's entry into India,
with
David
van
Herwaarde,
CEO
commenting,
"Mobimedia
International's mission is to help
carriers deliver captivating content
and marketing campaigns to connect
people and brands."
The services will be housed under the
umbrella of Idea Cellular's existing
brand architecture.

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August 26, 2016

Fiji News

778.278.4088

Habitat Fiji Reaches Out To More Than 7500

Families
Habitat for Humanity Fiji has reached
out to more than 7500 families
(35,460 individuals) with emergency
shelter kits throughout Fiji as part of
its disaster response work following
Tropical Cyclcone Winston. The
non-profit
non-governmental
organisation has surpassed its initial
target of 5000 families, including
assistance to 297 communities in 11
Provinces.
Surpassing our target was only
possible with the dedicated team of staff
and volunteers and were overwhelmed
by the support, confidence and trust
our donors have put in us to effectively
deliver the much needed supplies to
families affected by Tropical Cyclone
Winston, said HFH Fiji National
director Masi Latianara.
Its not just about delivering the
relief items to the communities in
need, but it is about ensuring they
are moving towards rebuilding their
lives, through cyclone resilient, more
permanent shelter solutions. For this
reason, our emergency shelter kits
contain necessary tools, roofing and
informative flyers on Build Back
Safer, said Mr Latianara.
Relief efforts also involved distribution
of solar lanterns, solar street lights and
generators to communities and schools
without electricity supply.
HFH Fiji has also reached out to
more than 80 communities with
water, sanitation and hygiene services
following Tropical Cyclone Winston.
This involved repair and restoration
of water supply systems, main tenance
of water tanks/ pumps and availing
emergency sanitation provisions in
communities severely affected , said
the National Director.
Shortly after the disaster struck, HFH

Russian Foreign Affairs Minister,

Sergey
Lavrov
Habitat for Humanity Fiji National director Masi Latianara (right), assists the team with Build
Back
Safer training at
Waiqanake Settlement in Lami.
Fiji developed a two year response a number of donors to assist us in Red Cross Fiji and the Shelter Cluster
plan that involves relief, recovery and providing decent homes to Fijians in Fiji.
rehabilitation phases.
need , said Mr Latianara.
HFH Fijis relief efforts have been
We are about to enter our HFH Fiji has secured funding to build supported by Fiji Community
rehabilitation phase and we are close to 200 homes throughout Fiji.
Development Programme (FCDP),
very excited to build new homes for HFH Fiji joined together with partner World Vision New Zealand and
families who have completely lost organisations to maximise its ability to Pacific Timor Leste, International
their homes. This also includes major reach more communities. These were Organisation for Migration (IOM),
repair of homes with Build Back Safer the Foundation for Rural Integrated the Adventist Development and Relief
training. A number of communities Enterprise
and
Development Agency Fiji (ADRA), UNICEF, Child
have been identified and our aim is to (FRIEND), Peoples Community Fund Australia, Australian and New
build 500 new homes.
Network (PCN), ADRA Fiji, Vueti Zealand Aid, Government of Hong
We thank the donors who have joined Vuna, Roman Catholic Archdiocese Kong Special Administrative Region
hands with us for this worthy cause of Suva, Live and Learn/ Care and HFH Australia, HFH New Zealand
and we are continuing to approach International, All Hands Volunteers, and HFH International.

Fiji Builds On Pacific Police Partnerships

A series of visits to the Commissioner
of Police Brigadier-General Sitiveni
Qiliho signified Fijis continuous
reputation in assisting small island
nations as well as building the growing
relationship with our neighbours.
As such for the next two weeks Inspector
(IP) Anaselina Ioane from the Kiribati
National Police will be on attachment
with the Fiji Polices Academy to learn
about the recruitment process and
programmes currently underway.
The attachment is being facilitated
by the Pacific Island Chiefs of Police
Secretariat and accompanying IP Ioane
was their representative Inspector
Kevin Kneebone who also took the
opportunity to pay a courtesy call on
the Commissioner of Police.
Also paying a courtesy visit on the
Commissioner was Inspector Pete
Jones of the New Zealand Police in his

capacity as the newly appointed liaison

officer for the Pacific.
Later this week the Fiji Police Force
will be hosting a delegation from the
Nauru Police Force who will also be
learning about the recruitment process
and programmes currently underway at
the Fiji Police Academy.
Both of the visits is an outcome of the
Fiji Polices current Memorandum of
Understanding signed between Fiji
and Kiribati as well as with the Nauru
Police Force in areas of Police cooperation.
Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho
said as a nation Fiji was proud of
its achievements as the hub of the
Pacific, and was always ready to assist
neighbouring small island nations.
He reiterated his appreciation to the
New Zealand Police for the ongoing
support towards the Fiji Police Force.

From left: Inspector Pete Jones of the NZ Police, Inspector Anaselia Ioane
of the Kiribati National Police, Commissioner of Police Brigadier-General
Sitiveni Qiliho and Inspector Kevin Kneebone of the Pacific Islands Chief of
Police Secretariat.

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

August 26, 2016

New Departures Check-In Terminal Being

Tested

A portion of the new departures checkin terminal at the Nadi International

Airport has been opened for live
testing.
Passengers travelling to Auckland and
Christchurch were processed in the
new Departures check-in terminal.
This was a significant step in the
progress of the Nadi Airport Terminal
Modernisation Project (NATMP).
Airports Fiji Limited executive
chairman, Faiz Khan, said: AFL
commenced live testing of part of
the brand new departures check-in
terminal. Passengers of two flights
were successfully checked-in.
During the live tests, we have noticed
the check-in process is considerably
quicker due to the weigh scales linked
to the baggage conveyors. This was
one of the objectives of the project.
Mr Khan said more tests are planned
over the next few days before AFL
completely transitions from the old to
the new check-in terminal.
Once we completely transition to
your new terminal in a weeks time,
farewellers will also be allowed
in to experience the terminal for
themselves, he said.
We thank all Fijians for their patience
over the last year when farewellers
were restricted from entering the
departures check-in terminal to allow
construction works to take place.
The release of part of your new checkin terminal is a staged approach to the
NATMP. Construction works in other
areas are ongoing.
Mr Khan said: In line with the

Governments vision for a better Fiji

the opening of part of the brand new
check-in terminal is another milestone
for AFL and all Fijians. We hope you
enjoy this new experience.
To see the excitement in our
passengers as they walked into the new
terminal this morning defines what this
project is all about.
Mr Khan thanked the contractors,
consultants, airport stakeholders and
AFL staff for great team work in
contributing in whatever big or small,

The Fijian Elections Office will today

start offering all personal voter related
services from its new Voter Services
Centre next to Post Fiji on Thomson
Street in Suva.
This is because of the increase in voter
services demand in the Central Division
with over 571 new registrations received
from January this year.
Supervisor of Elections Mohammed
Saneem said the new centre would give
voters the convenience of getting voter
card replacements and registrations
among other voter services.
The venue here is more accessible as
you can see theres a lot of foot traffic in
this area which adds to the convenience
to voters, Mr Saneem said.
He also said they received about 50 to
70 requests for replacement of voter
cards on a daily basis at their FEO
headquarters in Toorak.
We believe that the voter card although
it was primarily for the elections
purposes, it is now an accepted ID in
Fiji and the demand and the usage of the
ID increases as we progress, he said.
Mr Saneem said the centre was part of

a pilot exercise with the intention of

rolling out voter service centres all over
the country.
Mr Saneem revealed that instant
replacement of voter ID cards would
no longer be available for collection the
next day after it is processed.
He said this was because of the rapid
increase in the need for replacement
voter ID cards and to ensure the
application process had integrity in it
and not just for mere convenience.
In the past, we have seen misuse of this
process and the delay is to ensure that
the law is properly complied with.
Mr Saneem further revealed that they
were exploring other areas in Nadi,
Savusavu and Rakiraki to set up similar
centres.
The new Voter Services Centre will
open at 8am and close at 6pm daily
from Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm
on Saturday.
Plans are underway for the centre to
open at 7am to 6pm every Wednesday
to allow the working people to be
able to access voter services at their
convenience.

direct or indirect way, to delivering yet

another milestone.
The ambience
Mr Khan said the check-in terminal
with a sense of space creates a happy
mood.
Again this was one of our objectives
of the project. We invite people to go
and have a look and feel for themselves
once farewellers are allowed into the
check-in terminal in about a weeks
time, he said.
This milestone depicts the patience

and perseverance of many who have

been involved in this project. People
see the end product and comment on
the output.
However, what goes behind the
scenes in the toil and sweat is naturally
ignored.
We would like to thank all those who
have spent considerable time and effort
in achieving all we have achieved so
far.
There is a bit more to go but we are on
the home stretch now. Thank you all.

New Voter Services Centre Now Opens

OBizz.com

August 26, 2016

Fiji News

778.278.4088

Minister Talks Importance Of Quality, Innovation And

Skill In Training

World TVET conference key note speaker, Professor S. Mehrotra (from left), Fiji National University Vice-Chancellor
Nigel Healey with President Jioji Konrote at Grand Pacific Hotel
The following is the address by the
Minister for Education, Heritage and
Arts, Mahendra Reddy at the 2016
IVETA World TVET Conference gala
dinner
Ladies and gentlemen, I am privileged
to be here tonight to be part of the 2016
IVETA World TVET Conference.
This is a very proud moment for us
as this Conference which has been
held in diverse prestigious locations
worldwide has chosen Fiji to be the
host country this year.
I, at this juncture, on behalf of the
Government of Fiji, welcome all the
international delegates who are part of
this conference.
While Fijians world-wide are basking
in the glory of the feat of our gold
medal winning rugby sevens team,
I also welcome you all to be part of
the on-going celebrations which you
will find in every corner of this proud
nation.
The vision of education in Fiji is to
transform lives through education,
recognising the important role of
education as the main driver for
development and achieving accessible,
fair and equitable education progression
at all levels.
This commitment is enveloped around
the renewed education agenda which
focuses on quality in all aspects.
Our aspirations are mooted to the end
result of no child to be left behind in
their quest for education.
The Sustainable Development Goal
4, which is to: Ensure inclusive and
equitable quality education and promote
lifelong learning opportunities for all,
captures our targets and ambitions.
Ladies and Gentlemen, to host an event
which has won International accolades
in the past is as such a milestone

achievement for the education sector

and to the Fijian economy at large.
This gathering of experts in technical
vocational education and training,
representing human resource policy
makers,
managers,
practitioners
and other stakeholders interested in
technical vocational education and
training is a testimony of strong global
collaboration, co-operation and coordination towards development of
Technical Vocational Education and
Training Education.
Ladies and gentlemen, technical
vocational education and training on a
global scale is high in demand.
While the rapidly changing labour
markets offer a pool of opportunities
for qualified trades people, the need
to develop peoples basic knowledge,
skills and competencies for decent
work, entrepreneurship and life
makes it mandatory that all countries
adapt policies to promote technical
and vocational education. Access to
technical vocational education and
training education must be imperative
and forums such as the one we are part of
today, must be collaborated to evaluate
policies and programmes and implement
better ones recognising the area of need.
The theme for this conference, Quality,
Innovation and Skill Mobilisation in
technical vocational education and
training an internationalisation
process corresponds perfectly with
global shift in educational progress.
The theme has the key words :
(i) Quality and innovation;
(ii) Skills mobilisation;
(iii) Education and training; and
(iv) Internationalisation.
Let me speak on these.
Quality, Relevance and Delivery
Ladies and gentlemen, technical

vocational education and training

Education needs to be expanded but
quality must be ensured. Students
and Governments are investing their
resources and we must ensure it is
relevant to the industry as well pegged
and delivered at an appropriate level in
Qualifications Frame work.
There are numerous cases of teaching
and training that I can point out
where the training using a particular
technology is no longer relevant to
the technology used by the industry
or by some of the leading firms in
the industry. For example, in the
automobile industry, textiles and
clothing, printing, etc to name a few.
We cannot remain oblivious to
developments in the industry otherwise
our graduates will no longer be relevant
to the industry. The Industry will have
to spend some more months or a year to
up skill the graduate while the graduate
is on full pay.
This is not what the industry had
expected from the training institution.
The other issue that I have alluded to is
whether the programmes are pegged at
the level it is being stated to be.
This is a common problem in emerging
training institutions. Some years back,
students were after a qualification only.
They were not so concerned about the
quality of it.
But now, with competition in the
market, they are also comparing and
examining the product that they will
get from the provider. Industries are
also comparing the product and its
performance.
Skills
mobilisation
and
internationalisation
Skilled personnel look forward to
moving to different labour markets.
They may also explore possibilities

of moving to other Universities to

upgrade their qualifications.
In this regard, training providers
must undertake a full review of all
its programmes to ensure it is pegged
firmly to the National Qualifications
Framework and is of relevance to the
industry. Industrys confidence in the
product can also be obtained if we have
the relevant workshops and labs to
support it and the appropriate qualified
and experienced staff to deliver it.
The graduates must, upon completion
of the appropriate qualification,
acquire certain attributes such as, skills
in problem solving, critical thinking,
creativity, etc, to mention a few.
The way forward in ensuring this
is acquired is to have compulsory
industrial attachment which Fiji
National University already has in place
and also competency based assessment
which some training providers have
adopted.
Raising demand for technical education
Ladies and gentlemen, technical
education is not for those with low IQ
or failures.
It is for those bright minds who have
an interest and aptitude in technical
qualification.
Unfortunately, in Fiji and some small
states, people have created this school
of thought that those who do not
perform well in high school studies
should go for vocational studiesit
is this thinking that has killed interest
of students to venture into technical
education. This is absolutely not true.
The next issue is how do we raise this
interest and demand? We need to do
this amongst our parents and children
in the upper primary and high school
system.
Universities are investing a lot in open
days but there are certain fundamental
problems.
It is accessible to schools in urban areas
only or those which are in Viti Levu, in
particular.
Concerted effort must be made to use
technology to take the display and
demonstrations to those who are not
able to make it such as, those in deep
interior and maritime zones.
Universities need to work closely with
our Ministry to facilitate this.
Opportunities to those who dropped
out early
Ladies and gentlemen, we have
noted that not all children have an
aptitude for higher education studies.
Therefore,they drop out at an early stage
or some realise later, after undertaking
Year 10 to 13 studies that their interest
in not in Higher Education.
To respond to these markets, our
Ministry has now established the
Technical College of Fiji offering skill
based level II studies.
We now have 12 fully operational
Technical College Campuses Fiji-wide.
Continued on Page 9

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

Fiji Can Be The Centre For

Providing Medical Services
Health care and the provision of
medical services is a very critical
element of living your life as an
individual.
Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed
Khaiyum made this comment while
officiating at the launch of the Tappoo
Charitable Foundation after the
provision of free medical services
through the Sai Prema Foundation.
A team of doctors from India came to
Fiji earlier this month to conduct free
surgeries and provide free medical
services.
Sayed Khaiyum says the reason for the
launch is to make sure every person in
the country has access to proper health
care.
He also says that Fiji can be the
centre for providing medical services
throughout the Pacific islands.

Minister Talks Importance Of

Quality
Continued From Page 8

The students who enrol at the

Technical College campuses are given
loan schemes to study, have free
transportation under the governments
transportation scheme and are taught by
highly qualified and skilled Educators.
After having the pioneer graduation
ceremony of the first three campuses
earlier in the year, within one month
70 per cent of all those students
who graduated were absorbed in the
workforce. The qualification offered
here are all competency based.
Added to this, we still have Vocational
Centres operating in Secondary schools
in Fiji, offering specific programmes
and training areas best suited to the
interests and choices of the students
from within that area.
Universities and International Students
Ladies and gentlemen, I note that we are
investing heavily in offering technical
education. The technical education
programmes are capital intensive in its
delivery. As such, we must have a good
student base to generate additional
revenue and supplement University
funds.
For this, we must re-look at our
International Student Fee. What is its
main purpose? Is it to raise net income?
The question is: will high fee and low
volume bring in more net revenue or
low fee and high volume? Has anyone
estimated the price elasticity of demand
for our programmes by foreign students?
This is one area we are really lagging
behind in. There are large captive
international student base who must
find a competitive fees. It is no use
pegging up fees which discourages
students to come over to Fijis
Universities.
Elimination of inequality via technical
education
Ladies and Gentlemen, a major goal of

Technical Education is also to eliminate

any forms of inequality in education.
Inequality between students with
different aptitude so that choices are
available.
Inequality between students in urban
areas and rural/maritime region hence,
decentralising the campuses. Inequality
amongst the two genders for technical
education.
The days where the probability of
boys taking up technical education
programmes far outweighed the
number of girls is gone.
Today, one of our key priorities is
gender parity in access to education.
We are motivating all girls and boys and
men and women to enrol in Technical
Education and choose career pathways
which they desire and not which are
forced onto them.
Concluding remarks: discourse and
policy making
Ladies and gentlemen, the success
of education in any country lies on
sound policies and planning as well as
efficient implementation.
This Conference which will last for
the next two days will as such, provide
the perfect opportunity to learn from
experts in the Technical Education
arena and contemplate on better
strategies, policies and way forward in
technical education and training.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Fiji is excited
to host you. We are honoured to be
given a global platform to showcase
our progress in technical education and
learn from the best.
The networking opportunities on offer
in this Conference will go a long way
in assisting Fiji and the South Pacific
countries in strengthening our efforts
towards quality technical education.
The exchange of ideas will support
our initiatives to serve our people
better through our Technical Education
services.

August 26, 2016

Former Civil Servant

Charged With Forgery
Former civil servant, Ekbal Hussein
charged with forgery will take his plea at
the Suva Magistrates Court next month.
Hussein is charged with one count
of Uttering Forged Documents with
an alternative count of Giving False
Information to a public servant.
It is alleged that Hussein on November
11, 2006 at Suva knowingly and
fraudulently uttered a forged document,
namely a certificate of Diploma in
Islamiyat from the Madresa Nur-Ul
Islam Institute, with the Fiji Public
Service Application Form to the
Ministry of Education.
The second phase of the disclosures
has been served by the Prosecution.
Magistrate Waleen George has adjourned
the matter to the 19th of September for
the accused to take his plea.

Former civil servant, Ekbal Hussein

Roderick Drummond at his home in Suva

BRITISH
High
Commissioner
Roderick Drummond said the visa
process and requirements for those
travelling to the United Kingdom (UK)
remained the same.
Mr Drummond said a letter being
circulated reporting changes to visa
requirements for all Commonwealth
nationals was a hoax.
The letter appeared as an article in a
publication in the UK.
"I hope that it has not misled anyone
because the visa requirements remain
the same," Mr Drummond said. "The
article said those travelling to the UK
would be allowed visa-free travel, but
this is not true."

was looking at ways to make the visa

process faster and more convenient.
"We have tried to simplify our visa
systems so that there is one set of visas
for all kinds of visits," he said. "We are
looking at ways where we can improve
that service further and in the next year
or two we will find ways of making
that faster and more reliable because
we want more people to travel to the
UK and indeed more people are now
travelling to the UK.
"There are people going to the UK to
study, people going to the British Army
and those who visit their families so we
are trying to make it better and smarter,
but fundamentally the process will
remain the same."

MORE than $178 million was

recorded from the sales of food,
accommodation, liquor, telephone
and other miscellaneous charges from
licensed hotels and accommodations
from around the country for the first
three months of this year.
According to the figures provided by
the Fiji Bureau of Statistics, this was
an increase by 3.8 per cent from the
$172.2m recorded in the first three
months last year.
On the other hand, the bureau noted
paid employment in the hotel sector
for the first three months of this year
decreased by 1.6 per cent.
While there were 12,161 number
of employment recorded in the first
three months of this year, 12,359 were
recorded for the same period last year.
The bureau recorded that the number of
rooms available in this period decreased
by 0.6 per cent when compared with
the corresponding period last year.
This is 920,847 rooms when compared

with 926,090 rooms available in the

first three months in 2015.
With the decrease in rooms available,
this has also affected the number of
rooms sold within this period.
It decreased by 1.2 per cent, 405,
259 recorded in this period this year
compared with 410,140 in 2015.
It noted the room occupancy rate
slightly decreased by 0.3 per cent points
to 44 per cent compared with 44.3 per
cent in the same period in 2015.
The bureau noted the room occupancy
rate for the past six years has been in
the range of 40.3 per cent to 44 per cent.
According to the bureau, the first three
months of this year showed that Suva
and the Coral Coast area recorded the
highest occupancy rate compared with
all areas around the country.
Data also showed that other areas
experienced a slight decrease, whereas
Lautoka and the Northern areas
recorded a major decrease due to
Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.

UK Envoy Says 'Visa Changes' A

Hoax
Outgoing British High Commissioner Mr Drummond said the High Commission

$178M From Hotels,

Tourist Accommodation

10

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

Minister Mahendra Reddy

Announces Educational
Cartoons

Minister for Education, Mahendra

Reddy has announced the launch
of the first phase of the distribution
of Educational Cartoons to Early
Childhood Education Centres and
members of the public.
The Minister stated that the Ministry
will be preparing Educational Cartoons
and distributing it to ECE Centres and
parents so that children at home can
watch these Educational Cartoons.
In the 1st Phase, the Ministry is now
distributing 29 Cartoons developed by
UNICEF based on Kenyan background
for children in Fiji.
The cartoons cover a number of areas
of learning including reading English,
learning how to count, understanding
the importance of going to School,
learning about family, importance of
sanitation and understanding nature.
Reddy highlights that these materials
will greatly assist the nannies/
baby sitters and parents to provide
meaningful educational materials to
the children while at home rather than

watching movies which does not have

much educational content.

A judge of the High Court in Lautoka

has reminded lawyers to leave early for
court and arrive before their cases start.
Justice Thushara Ranasinghe made the
remarks after a man pleaded guilty to
seven counts of rape and two counts of
indecent assault in the absence of his
lawyer.
When asked if he understood the
consequences of pleading guilty, the
accused replied maybe, yes.
Justice Ranasinghe asked that the
accuseds lawyer should be contacted
to attend to the case and speak to the
accused.
Justice Ranasinghe said he would

inform the Director of the Public

Prosecution about the late arrivals of
the lawyers for their cases.
The counsel later sought withdrawal
of the plea because the accused had
not understood the charges. Justice
Ranasinghe granted seven days to the
counsel before the accused appears
again for the plea.
He told the lawyer to talk and discuss
the matter with the accused, represent
the interest of his client and be in court
on time.
Justice Ranasinghe stood down at least
three cases because lawyers were not
available.

Minister for Education, Mahendra

Reddy

Judges Advice To
Lawyers: Dont Be Late

Kadavu Man Jailed For 13

Years For Drug Cultivation

A 25yearold Kadavu man has been

sentenced to 13 years imprisonment for
the unlawful cultivation of illicit drugs.
Inoke Ratu is convicted of cultivating
marijuana in Nabounikoula, Namalata
in Kadavu.
Police found Ratu at his marijuana
farm on the 7th of January, 2015
and uprooted 228 marijuana plants
weighing 26.4 kg.
High Court Judge Justice Salesi
Temo said he found the accused
guilty because he had confessed to
committing the offence in his caution

interview with police.

Justice Temo said he considered the
huge amount of marijuana that was
uprooted from the farm in Kadavu as a
serious aggravating factor.
The judge said the mitigating factors
in his sentencing were that the accused
was a firsttime offender and also
because he was in remand for 1 year
8 months.
Justice Temo has also ordered for the
destruction of the 228 marijuana plants.
25yearold Inoke Ratu has been given
a nonparole period of 12 years.

OBizz.com

August 26, 2016

Removal Order Issued

The Fiji Ports Authority (FPA) has
issued a removal order to the owner
of the fishing vessel that sank in Suva
harbor last Friday.
A fishing vessel was partially sunk in
the anchorage at sea in front of civic
center area in Suva last Friday morning
after ingress of water.
Chief Executive Officer Fiji Port
Authority Vajira Piyasena said a
removal order was issued to the owner
and the Fiji Port Cooperation Limited
(FPCL) was working with owner to
remove the vessel.
Mr Piyasena said FPCL had conducted
another inspection of the above vessel
recently with Pollution Officer from
Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji
(MSAF).
The following were observed or done;
Very tiny pockets of bubbles were
observed to be coming out of certain
parts of the vessel when reaching the
waterline forming flimsy oil sheen;
under water visibility around the vessel
was quite good which reflects that the
vessel may only contain minimum
diesel oil or none at all.
.Vessel structure and outline can be
seen from above water.

All agreed that FPCL do not
require deploying oil booms for
pollution control.

The vessel is still in the same
position as mentioned before in my
earlier e-mail.
No debris was coming out of the
vessel

Additional mooring line was
added to the steel wire.
According to Mr Piyasena, this
fishing vessel belongs to an Asian
company.
The removal order is for 21 days and
the owner is well aware of this timeline.
In Volume 23 of Port News it said
that FPCL is empowered to order
the removal of derelict vessels from

its harbour boundaries under Part

8, Section 27, Subsection (1) of the
Seaport Management Act (2005), but
such an order is to be delivered to the
owner or master of the vessel, if their
identity and whereabouts are known.
[Subsection (2) c]. Locating vessel
owners so they are fully aware of
what is taking place can be very time
consuming. Often they are based
overseas and we have great difficulty
in locating them, not to mention the
difficulties we sometimes face with
language barriers, said Mr Ajit
Narayan, FPCL Risk & Compliance
Analyst. Even when vessel owners
are locally based and known to FPCL,
there can be delays in removing a
derelict. A recent example of such a
case being successfully pursued by
FPCL involved the local vessel, the
Lau Trader.
By exercising its powers under the
Seaport Management Act, FPCL
issued a removal order to the owners,
to be actioned within a month. The
mortgaging bank requested, through
proper channels, the opportunity to
find a buyer for the vessel, but when
this proved unsuccessful, FPCL put it
up for tender.
A successful bid for the Lau Trader has
been made and the new owner has been
given three months to remove
the vessel from the ports boundaries.
Removing a derelict vessel and cost
between $50k and $500k . It is not
budgeted for as it is not part of FPCLs
core business, but we do have legal
procedures we can enforce, said Mr
Narayan.
A derelict vessel is one that is
abandoned in a harbour or port for 21
days and has insufficient manpower on
board to operate. FPCL follows set
procedures to strictly enforce the
powers invested in the corporation by
the Act.

info@gobizz.ca

August 26, 2016

11

12

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

August 26, 2016

My Husband Was Killed By Someone

Alima Bi claims her husband, found
dead on a Labasa road, was a victim of
foul play.
I know someone killed my husband,
an emotional Ms Bi said.
Ms Bi, 55, has called on Police to bring
those responsible to justice.
Her husband, Abdul Munaf Saheb, 53,
was found dead on Qawa Road near a
sugarcane field.
Mr Saheb worked as a supervisor of
joinery section at Valebasoga Tropik
Board Limited (VTBL) in Labasa.
He also did part-time job at Vodafone
Fiji and at the Fijian Elections office
also in Labasa.
Ms Bi said her husband came home after
work on Wednesday and had something
to eat. She said at around 7pm he told
her that he was going to a relatives
house not far from their home.
He said to me I am going to assist
him fill the income tax return form and
would return home around 10pm, Ms
Bi said.
He always made himself available to
help people who needed his help.
We all know in the house that my
husband would go out and return home
before 4am, because he never missed
work.
When I woke up around 4am and
found my husband missing, I alerted
my son, the mother of three said.
He said not to worry mum because
father always returns home.
The relative he was supposed to meet
said my husband did not come to their
house last night. So where did he go?
I never thought in my life that my

TELECOM Fiji Ltd (TFL) is working

towards
providing
high-speed,
seamless internet services to their
customers.
And they are excited to deliver the
next evolution of super-fast broadband
connectivity to the Denarau area where
there is a high contribution to the
national economy.
This was highlighted yesterday in a
statement by the company's CEO,
Mothilal De Silva.
TFL signed a memorandum of
understanding
with
Denarau
Corporation Ltd to roll out Fiber to
the Home (FTTH) and Very-high-bitrate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL)
technology for residential customers
on Denarau Island in Nadi.
This new technology is part of
TFL's national broadband strategy
that is focused on ensuring greater
accessibility,
availability
and
affordability of internet and high-speed
broadband connectivity to the people
and businesses across Fiji.
The company highlighted that FTTH
will involve the extension of TFL's
fiber right into customers' homes,

This is the place where the body was found on Qawa Road in Labasa. INSET:From Left-Dead... Abdul Munaf Saheb.
Alima Bi, daughter-in-law, Sereana Tagici and eight-year-old granddaughter Areeba Saheb at their home in Vunivau,
Labasa
husband would leave us like this, she shocked to see my father lying on the an unknown caller rang after 6am and
said in tears.
road without shoes on his feet; his face reported the matter after which a team
I am just praying that whoever carried had bruises and a circular mark around of officers was deployed to the scene.
out this cruel act will be punished his neck. His clothes werent soiled, The victim was found lying along
accordingly.
he said.
Qawa Road with visible injuries, and
Her son, Shazeed Saheb, 30, said he It was unusual to see my father at this stage it is too early to classify
was in his housing block when he without shoes on that road.
the case, Ms Naisoro said.
received an early morning call from My father uses this road either to go The post mortem of the victim would
Police to identify his fathers body.
home or for work.
be conducted soon as investigations
When I arrived at the scene, I was Police spokesperson, Ana Naisoro, said continue.

New Technology

providing download speeds up to

100Mbps while the VDSL technology
will provide a more reliable connection
and enable faster download and upload
speeds up to 50Mbps.
TFL strongly believes Fiji follows closely
behind the trends of the developed
world in which both "Fiber to the Curb"
(FTTC) and "Fiber to the Home" deliver
high-speed broadband access.
In both these technologies that are being
rolled out across Fiji, the company
says they bring the exchange more
closer to the premises while effectively
utilising their copper and fiber network
infrastructure for last mile access.
The company said with the proliferation
of video such as YouTube and business
services moving to cloud-based
solutions, these new technologies
introduced by TFL were becoming
more of a requirement for residential
and business enterprises located on
Denarau.
Therefore
by
deploying
fiber
infrastructure, TFL is future-proofing
the network infrastructure to be able
to meet the bandwidth demands of the
future.

"Surging demand for triple play services

(voice, video, data) and requirement
for high definition TV can effectively
be met by multiple technologies
introduced by TFL progressively," Mr
De Silva said.
The company will use different
complementary fixed and wireless
technology solutions to fit into different
market needs.
Denarau Corporation Ltd chairman

Nigel Skeggs says the win-win

partnership
between
Denarau
Corporation and Telecom Fiji will
provide immense benefits to dwellers
in Denarau residential and business
estates that extend more than 630 acres.
Mr Skeggs said residences and
businesses in this complex would be
able to access high-speed broadband
services that were offered by Telecom
Fiji Ltd in a dedicated manner.

A COLOURED commemorative
circulation coin will be issued by the
Reserve Bank of Fiji early next year
to commemorate the Fiji rugby sevens
team's gold medal win at the 2016 Rio
Olympics.
The RBF made the announcement,
saying it will be the first coloured
commemorative circulation coin for Fiji.
It said design work was being finalised
and the actual completion of the coin
could take around six months, with the

coin expected to be issued in the first

quarter of 2017.
RBF governor Barry Whiteside said
only a limited quantity of the coloured
commemorative circulation coin would
be minted, which means that it would
fast become a collector's item for the
general public.

Coin To Commemorate 7S
Gold Medal Win

OBizz.com

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

August 26, 2016

13

Six Fijian Carpenters Impress NZ

Government

The six Fijian pilot carpenters that

were deployed to New Zealand earlier
this month for the rebuilding of
Christchurch were commended by their
employer, Pacific Trust Canterbury and
the Ministry of Business, Innovation
and Employment (MBIE), New Zealand
(NZ) for their good work ethics,
dedication and meeting NZ standards.
This scheme was arranged through
partnership between the Ministry of
Employment, Fiji and the Ministry of
Business, Innovation and Employment
of New Zealand.
The Fijian carpenters received positive
remarks from MBIE and Pacific
Trust officials just after completing
one month employment which is an
astonishing achievement and also
signifies the firm assessment and
selection made by both Governments.
Due to their hard work and dedication,
two of the team members are being
considered for foreman positions
which speaks highly of the calibre of
our pilot workers.
The Fijian Government through the
Minister for Industry, Trade and
Tourism, Faiyaz Siddiq Koya who
visited the pilot workers on Wednesday,
emphasised to the Canterbury pilot
workers the importance of bringing
back home the skills acquired and

Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Faiyaz Siddiq Koya and Ministry of Employment permanent secretary
Salaseini Daunabuna (third from right) with Pilot workers and other officials in Canterbury, New Zealand during
their visit.
sharing it with other workers be it by the Permanent Secretary for Centre during his visitation to the
through trainings or entrepreneurship. Employment Salaseini Daunabuna Fijian pilot Carpenters in Canterbury,
Minister Koya was accompanied and director National Employment New Zealand.

Salvation Army Donates Roofing Iron

The Ministry of Rural and Maritime

Development and National Disaster
Management permanent secretary
Meleti Bainimarama received 700
sheets of roofing iron from the
Salvation Army of Fiji.
The roofing iron, which is part of the
Salvation Armys larger response to
Tropical Cyclone Winston, will assist
families in need of shelter in the
Western Division.
In handing over the stock of roofing
iron on Thursday in Lautoka, Major
David Noakes, the Salvation Army
Divisional Commander for Fiji, said
the donation was made possible
through an appeal that raked in
$600,000 from the Salvation Army in
New Zealand.
He said the donation of roofing iron
follows initial supplies of food, timber,
tarpaulins, chainsaws, mattresses,
wheelbarrows, and other relief and
rehabilitation items.
In receiving the donation, Mr
Bainimarama commended the efforts
of the Salvation Army and highlighted
the importance of the working
partnership with the National Disaster
Management Office.
I thank you for all that youve done
during Tropical Cyclone Winston and
I look forward to your future work
in preparing for the next cyclone
season with the National Disaster
Management Office.

Major David Noakes, Divisional head of the Salvation Army Fiji hands over roofing iron to Ministry of Rural and
Maritime Development and National Disaster Management permanent secretary Meleti Bainimarama

Security Officer Found Guilty Of Raping 14-Year-Old Niece

A 40year-old security officer convicted
of raping his 14-year-old niece has been
sentenced to 15 years imprisonment
by Lautoka High Court Judge, Justice

Thushara Rajasinghe.
The man was found guilty of two counts
of rape, one count of sexual assault and
one count of indecent assault.

The incident happened between 2012

and 2013 in Sigatoka.
Justice Rajasinghe has set a non-parole
period of 14 years.

14

info@gobizz.ca

Fiji News

August 26, 2016

Zarak Khan To Build Fijian Brand In Australia

The concept of waterparks may have
started decades ago around the world,
but in Fiji, it hasnt been until recently
that someone has started looking at this
prospect seriously.
Although not quite close to what is
there in more developed countries, a
company which has been in operation
in Fiji for quite some time, has come
up with a unique concept of waterpark.
The newly appointed Fiji ConsulGeneral & Trade Commissioner to
Australia, Zarak Khan is adamant on
building on the brand recognition that
Fiji has achieved as a leisure destination.
Mr Khan said this he would use to
Fijis advantage in his role.
Our culture, warm hospitality and
the inherent nature of our people to
welcome visitors are positive traits
that can be leveraged in attracting
investments, particularly in other
service sectors, where friendlessness
and a warm persona are highly valued,
he said.
Mr Khan was appointed on 27 June,
this year and commenced duties at
the Ministry of Industry, Trade and
Tourism and took up posting in Sydney,
Australia earlier this month.
He said a key challenge he had come

across in the brief time spent in the

role is that, Fiji is not traditionally
recognised as a business destination in
Australia.
We are more renowned as a tourism
destination our sun, sand, sea and
the beautiful smiles of our people, Mr
Khan said.
I would also like to focus on working
with exporters to promote the Fijian
brand in the Australian market.
Most Australians know and recognise
Fiji. They know its a safe place to visit
with their families and friends and they
aspire to take a vacation in Fiji.
Role in Australia
Mr Khan said his role would be to take
advantage of the momentum that has
been generated by seven consecutive
years of economic growth which Fiji
has experienced.
He said this is to convert that into
implemented
foreign
investment
projects in Fiji in addition to opening
up new market access opportunities for
our Fijian exporters.
One of the most marketable traits
about Fiji is our people.
We have a young population that
is talented, innovative, driven and
ambitious and are keen to take up

USP lecturer and choir leader Iglese

Ete led the choir in the recording for
the Disney animation Moana to be
released in November
The Pasifika Voices choir a fortnight
ago recorded an official soundtrack
for a Hollywood movie, a Disney
animation Moana at the University of
the South Pacific.
The choir which is led by USP lecturer
Igelese Ete said it would be great to get
the whole country around to celebrate
the achievement which will happen
at the global release of the movie on
November 23.
I also want to organise the Red
Carpet Premiere to celebrate the
involvement of Pasifika Voices, and
Im hoping to bring Dwayne Johnson
who plays the lead Maui in Moana,
he said.
This will benefit all performing artists
in Fiji and the Pacific, obviously for
Pasifika Voices its a huge boost to our
global profile as we will now be heard
all around the world come November,
said Mr Ete.
The recording of the soundtrack was
held at the ICT Japanese Theatre on
campus at USP from August 14-15.

Pasifika Voices choir members during Recording session with Disney producers at the ICT Japan Theatre, USP in
Laucala Bay, Suva.
The movie Moana, follows the journey directors John Musker & Ron Clements he said.
of a spirited teenager by the name of (Little Mermaid, Alladin, Prince and He believes this will allow him to push
Moana as she sails the Pacific Ocean to The Frog).
performing arts, creative works to the
complete her ancestors quest.
This gives me the opportunity to be international arena, creating jobs for
In 2014 Mr Ete was called to Hollywood in contact with other very influential, struggling artists as its very difficult
to work on a movie soundtrack and creative and like minded people in the for performing artists in Fiji and the
while there he was able to meet Disney entertainment business in Hollywood, Pacific.

Lautoka businessman, Mohammed

Tazim, says he is proud of his sister.
His sister, Obaida Hussain, graduated
with a Masters in Education at the
University of the South Pacific.
This is the highest ever qualification
in our generation of families, Mr

Tazim said.
Mr Tazim travelled all the way from
Lautoka with his family to support Mrs
Hussain.
She said they were bought up by a
single parent mother, and they had
to sacrifice and go through a lot of

income earning opportunities in new

growth sectors such as ICT.
Our goal is to bring in investments
which have both a social and
economic objective and they tap into
the aspirations of our young people

and provide them with decent work

opportunities.
Mr Khan said the trajectory of
sustainable growth that ICT sector in
Fiji has taken is a good example that
they would like to build on.

Pasifika Voices To Feature In Disney Movie

Masters Degree Highest Qualification For Family

struggle.
Mrs Hussain, who teaches at Noco
Secondary School, was overjoyed.
She relieved the sacrifices and
challenges they went through.
It was worth it in the end, she added.
My family has been very supportive

and thats why Im here today, she

said.
Husband Kizwan Hussain said it was
just an amazing feeling and a great
moment for him.
Mrs Hussain, a mother of two, said she
wished to further her studies in the future.

Fiji News

info@gobizz.ca

Medical Students Get

Australian 10-Day Tour
Selected by Friends 4 Fiji on a fully
sponsored trip by Monash University
Two medical students from University
of Fiji, Umanand Prasad School of
Medicine (UPSM) have received
clinical placements at various hospitals
and medical centres in Australia.
The duo, Keshni Lata and Shoma
Dutt, year five Bachelor of Medicine,
Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) students
departed for their medical adventure
after being selected by Friends 4 Fiji
on a fully sponsored trip by Monash
University. During their 10-day tour,
the students are scheduled to attend a
global health conference in Newcastle,
have a clinical placement at Monash
Medical Centre and The Alfred
Hospital in Melbourne and also tour
Melbourne and surrounding areas, with
clinical placement in a rural hospital.
One of the recipients, Ms Lata said

she was happy to be selected as this

was an opportunity for her to learn
and experience medical practice in
Australia.
The opportunity is huge and both
of us will learn about new medical
equipment and as well as meet and
treat different lots of population.
It will be a broader experience and
implementation of my knowledge,
Ms Lata said.
She hoped to return with greater
experience and something new.
The recipients thanked the UPSM and
Monash University for their interest in
developing them on a larger platform.
Vice Chancellor of the University
of Fiji Professor Prem Misir
said the initiative was one which
allowed integration of knowledge at
international standards which would
help the students a lot.

Lautoka Judge Condemns

Sex Crime In Family
A judge says sexually assaulting a child
within her own family environment
by a known relative is one of the
outrageous forms of sexual crime.
Justice Thushara Rajasinghe said:
In view of the seriousness of these
offences, it is in my opinion that such
offenders must be dealt with severe
and harsh punishment.
He made the remarks when he sentenced
a 40-year-old man at the High Court in
Lautoka to 15 years in jail for raping
and indecently assaulting his niece,
with a non-parole period of 14 years.
He said: Hence the purpose of this
sentence is founded on the principle
of deterrence and protection of
community.
Moreover, the court must demonstrate
in sentencing that the offenders of this
nature are socially abhorrent.
The man had pleaded not guilty to the
charges.
The court heard that the accused
committed the offences between April
1, 2012 and May 1, 2013 while the

victim was staying at his house in

Sigatoka.
The court also heard that the victim,
whose mother had passed away, was
forced to stay with the accused as
she had been treated badly by her
stepmother who had remarried her
father.
Justice Rajasinghe said the accused had
unleashed disgraceful exploitations
on the victim when she was not in a
position to seek any assistance or find a
way to escape.
She is your niece and the daughter
of your elder brother. The victim has
considered you and your wife as the
persons who provided her needs,
Justice Rajasinghe told the accused.
She has considered your house and
the family as her own, the family
environment for a child to grow up
with confidence and safety.
Close family members and relatives
are the most trusted and dependable
people
surrounded
during
the
developmental stages of a child.

Diwesh Sharma

August 26, 2016

15

VOU Wins Prestigious UK

Award

VOU was announced the 2016 winner

of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Sustainable Practice Award for their
production Are We Stronger Than
Winston? at the Awards ceremony on
Friday night in Edinburgh in Scotland.
These awards are a hugely important
part of the Festival and aim to reward
shows which take responsibility for
their environmental, economic, and
social impacts and think big about how
the arts can help to grow a sustainable
world, a press release from Vou said.
Sachiko Soro, VOU director, said:
There are over 3000 shows at the
Edinburgh Festival Fringe, so to be
shortlisted and then to win this Award
is a huge honour for VOU and for Fiji.
We believed it was important to tell the
world about the devastating impacts
of climate change on Fiji but also
demonstrate the resilience of Fijians.
Are We Stronger Than Winston?
was the first Fijian production at the
Festival and was choreographed by up
and coming VOU choreographer Navi

Fong who used the medium of dance

to describe the impacts of Cyclone
Winston on Fiji.
VOU convinced the judges with
their direct approach to the theme of
sustainability in its form of human
adaptation to a changing environment,
as well as their excellent and moving
performance.
VOU recently returned from a
hugely successful two-month tour
of Europe, starting with the iconic
Glastonbury Festival in the UK. VOU
then performed in Slovenia, Latvia,
Lithuania, France and nine nights at
the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where
they received four-star reviews and the
show was sold out. The tour finished
with a show in London for the Fiji
High Commission and Tourism Fiji.
The audiences at the shows in Europe
were intrigued and fascinated by the
music and dance from Fiji and wanted
to learn more about Fijian arts and
culture and the story and thinking
behind the dance.

The HFC Bank is planning on

launching a prepaid foreign currency
travel card in this financial year.
The newly-appointed chief executive,
Ross Munn, confirmed this to the Fiji
Sun during a Customer Cocktail at the
Holiday Inn Suva.
Mr Munn said they would also be
launching their debit and credit cards.
We are currently working on this. So
far no one offers a travel card here so
this will be new for the market, he
said.
We will start off with a travel card
first, debit card second and credit card
third.
Mr Munn said everywhere he goes
here, people are travelling.
This is the most travelled nation I
have been to in my life, he said.
Mr Munn said people want to spend
their own money when they travel with
credit cards.
So we want to have some sort of

prepaid foreign currency card, he said.

People will have to come and
physically buy it from us, loaded up
with foreign currency and off you go
and spend it.
Mr Munn said these cards will work
in the ATM around the world too and
would be made available to the people
here.
It would limit only to the amount of
foreign currency people are allowed
to take out of the country legally, he
said.
Other changes
Meanwhile, Mr Munn added the HFC
Bank is going through changes with
IT, core banking systems, product
development etcetera.
We have two branches moving inside
the Suva corridor which we are excited
about, he added.
I have also done some sales and
service training with my people and we
have got more to do.

HFC Bank To Launch Prepaid

Foreign Currency Travel Cards

16

info@gobizz.ca

Times Fiji News

August 26, 2016

Rosie Holidays Pulls Off Another First In China, This

Time With Awards

In another first for Fijian tourism,

Nadi-based travel company, Rosie
Holidays held the inaugural Fiji Travel
Awards ceremony in Shanghai, China
on Friday August 12.
Rosie worked closely with Tourism
Fiji, Fiji Airways and key Fijian
tourism partners involved in the Fijian
tourism market to develop these awards
as a marketing tool in Fijis fastest
developing source market.
It is envisaged that the Awards will
become an annual event and will assure
other operators in China that Fiji is a
destination they need to take seriously.
The Fiji Travel Awards honours and
recognises the contribution made by
Rosies major tour operator partners
from across China in their efforts to
develop tourism travel from China to
Fiji over the past decade.
The Ambassador for Fiji in China,
Ioane Naivalurua was Chief Guest at
the event.
He said: I am delighted to launch
the first ever Fiji Travel Awards event
here in China to commemorate and
recognise the important tourism travel
partnership between Fiji and China that
has flourished over the past decade.
Fiji has come a very long way in our
journey to China with our trade and
tourism development.
This awards event is our small way
of paying tribute to our loyal partners
who have committed themselves to
promoting Fiji in what is truly the
largest and busiest tourism source
market in the world.
It is very encouraging to see is the
enthusiasm and support from our
China partners who believe in Fiji and
this is evident by the continued strong
upward trend in visitor arrivals from
China.
Rosie Holidays was the first company
to start our tourism industry from
China coming out to Fiji when no one
else was interested and we commend
Rosie for their great work in building
the tourism market from China.
Its wonderful to see that Rosie
Holidays continues to lead the way
in marketing Fiji and this event is just
another example of their dynamic and
visionary leadership.
Growth from China
Fiji has enjoyed unprecedented growth
in visitor arrivals from China over the
past five years since the introduction
of the direct services by Fiji Airways
from Fiji to Hong Kong.
It has been assisted by the joint
marketing efforts by the tourism
industry, Rosie Holidays and Tourism
Fiji to target the outbound travel market
from China.
Tourism Fijis Senior Marketing
manager, Sera Cawanibuka, was also
present at the event.
She said: Tourism Fiji appreciates
immensely the tremendous work
that has been done by our inbound
partners especially Rosie Holidays in

Some of the Fiji Travel Award winners posing for a group photo with the Fiji Ambassador to China and awards Chief
Guest, Ioane Naivalurua (standing back left) and Rosie Holidays general manager,
developing the tourism market from
China.
China is now Fijis 4th largest market
and is the fastest growing market for
tourism.
This event marks a significant
milestone in recognising what has been
achieved not just by our China partners
but also for Rosie Holidays as a pioneer
in our tourism industry leading the way
for Fiji.
The awards ceremony
The exclusive Gran Azzuro Royal
Yacht Club overlooking the famous
Shanghai Bund river skyline was the
venue for this VIP awards gala night.
It didnt disappoint with its breathtaking
views of the Bund that had all the guests
captivated as did the Fijian cultural
presentation by the VOU dance group.
In presenting the Awards, the general
manager of Rosie Holidays, Eroni
Puamau said: Our journey to China
has been a very exciting one with many
lessons learnt along the way.
We have achieved some very special
milestones over the past decade.
The commencement of our charter

flights project two years ago has been

one of the major highlights in addition
to our numerous marketing initiatives
that we have introduced for China.
All this would not have been possible
without the support of our tourism
partners from Fiji, Tourism Fiji, Fiji
Airways and all our major tour operator
partners here in China who have made
our journey much easier.
I am also immensely grateful for our
dynamic team both in Fiji and out
here in China who work tirelessly to
ensure that we continue to deliver on
our promise to be Fijis Best Travel
company especially for our Chinese
visitors.
Winners selection
The award winners at the Fiji Travel
Awards were selected based on their
overall contribution to tourism arrivals
to Fiji.
It was also based on key marketing
projects they have undertaken on their
own initiative to promote destination
Fiji throughout their respective
distribution channels.
These award winners have also excelled

in their innovative approach with

marketing programmes undertaken
throughout the year and are regarded
as influential market leaders in the
outbound travel market from China.
About the Rosie Group
The Rosie Travel Group is a leading
Travel Company based in Fiji.
It operates many award-winning
brands, including Rosie Holidays,
Thrifty Car Rentals (Fiji) and Ahura
Resorts, operators of Malolo Island
Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort.
The company operates a diverse
portfolio of tourism investments
including transportation, inbound
tourism, retail travel, overseas
wholesaling and hotel resort ownership
and development.
The company is 100% Fijian owned
and the group provides employment to
over 600 people.
Rosie has a long history of introducing
firsts to the Fiji market and was one on
the first travel operators to open in Fiji.
It remains today in the hands of the
founding family.

A 16-year-old girl described at the

High Court in Lautoka how her father
threatened and raped her.
Her father is charged with two counts
of rape and one count of indecent
assault and appeared before Justice
Thushara Ranasinghe.
The accused is alleged to have indecently
assaulted and raped his daughter on
separate occasions between January to
May in 2013 when she was 13-years-old.
The accused pleaded not guilty.
The girl told the court that she was
sent to Nadi for a better education
opportunity. But she said a week later
after her arrival her father started
threatening and abusing her.
In her statement, she revealed how she
was allegedly abused. One incident
occurred in the absence of her mother
who had already separated from her

father.
She told the court that her father used
to come into her room, remove her
clothes and abuse her.
It was also revealed that during that
time of the incident, the victims elder
sister was also in the same room,
however, she was asleep.
She said that other alleged incidents
occurred when her cousins arrived to
stay with her.
She said she was moved to sleep in the
other room.
She said she also warned the accused that
she would report the matter to the Police.
But she said the accused threatened to kill
her and bury her if she went to the Police.
She later reported the matter to her
teacher who was in charge of the girls
in her school.
The teacher took her to report the

matter at the Police Station.

In cross examination, defence counsel,
Jasveel Singh, questioned why the girl
did not raise any alarm despite having
her sister in her room and nearby when
she was able to warn the accused.
But the girl said the accused threatened
her time and again.
Mr Singh put it to the girl that she was
making up the whole incident.
Mr Singh, further in the cross examination
told the girl that what was recorded in her
Police statement was different from what
she was revealing to the court.
However, the girl said she only told the
Police what she could recall at the time.
The trial continues and the state lawyer
is expected to present four prosecution
witnesses which include the teacher,
whom the girl reported the incident to,
a doctor and girls elder sister.

My Father Raped Me, Girl Tells Lautoka Court

Horoscope

info@gobizz.ca

Aries

The stars seem abuzz with activity this

week. Moon transiting through your
Sign spurs you into action. Around
Tuesday, Sun leaves Leo to enter
earthly mutable Sign Virgo and comes
under the eye of wily Saturn transiting
in Sagittarius. In view of this, health
issues need to be taken care of. Even
minor issues can create problems here.
Be very alert! Those already in a love
relationship, their friendship may sour
due to some misgiving. Do not get
worked up. If you handle the situation
delicately, everything will be alright.
A cluster of planets transit in Virgo,
sixth from your Sign, house related to
adversity, and that too being influenced
by Saturn, do not spell well for smooth
running of routine activities. There may
be a setback both in money matters as
well as health. Hence tread carefully
now in whatever you do.

Taurus

This week Sun leaves its own Sign

Leo to enter the earthly mutable Virgo,
5th House from your Sign. The cluster
of planets now in the 5th House from
your Sign will facilitate encouraging
opportunities for financial gains and
creative endeavours. Good time for
child conception too. At the same time,
you may need to spend money for some
urgent requirements at home. This may
not leave much savings. Love birds may
have difficulty in finding a safe place
to enjoy some cozy moments together.
Married ones could be dismayed by
the frigid and non-cooperative attitude
of their partner. Issues and differences
with someone in a close relationship
may keep you stressed. Businessmen
and professionals may not be satisfied
with profits here. You need to draw a
long term strategy to gain substantially.
Minor health issues like cough and
cold may bother you for some time.

Gemini

Encouraging returns from prior

investments will brighten up your
week. This is indicated by Moon
transiting through the eleventh House
concerned with gains. Moon is also
ruler of second House concerned with
matters related to finance. On Tuesday,
Sun leaves own Sign Leo to enter an
earthly Sign Virgo. Domestic matters
will need your attention urgently now.
You may need to devote some time
regularly at home to bring the problem
under control. Around WednesdayThursday, you will spend extravagantly
on luxuries, household comforts and
pleasure seeking activities. With
regards to health, slow digestion may
bother you. Some light exercise in the
morning suitable to you could bring
relief. One who are middle-aged or
above and suffer from blood pressure
related or cardiovascular issue will
need to be very careful now.

Cancer

Matters related to money will preoccupy

you this week. This is because Sun

leaves its own Sign, fiery Leo, and

enters an earthly Sign Virgo. Daily
expenses related to domestic matters
may reduce considerably. Hopefully,
you will be able to save more money
now. However, in the coming days
you may need to incur expenses for
some urgent needs. Moon positioned
in Aries will induce businessmen and
professionals to move fast to strike
profitable deals. Though, youll need
to work hard to keep the momentum
alive. You may get distracted here by
some relationship that may throw you
off track. Avoid carrying any emotional
burden with you while at work. Some
health issue may catch up with you
around the weekend. Luckily, you will
recover fast and get back on your feet
within a couple of days.

Leo

In the coming days, you will look for

new vistas to increase your earnings.
You will be aided by the stars here.
Planets concerned with money matters,
Jupiter and Mercury, will help your
cause. Around Tuesday, the ruler of
your Sign Sun enters Virgo, 2nd from
your Sign. With so many planets
crowding the 2nd House, indicative of
finances, you will be, more or less, in
a sound financial position. However,
do not become arrogant about your
achievements. Be humble and
sympathetic, towards those in need.
Family and household expenses may
increase at this moment. You may also
widen your social circle here. With
regards to health, problems related to
stress or digestive system may bother
you. Try alternative medicines! Also,
the positive influence of Jupiter will
help you find a good cure from these
sources.

Virgo

Planetary positions indicate that you

may miss out on a golden opportunity,
largely related to the financial front.
This happens because you will be
distracted by some issues in a close
relationship. Resultantly, you may not
be able to focus even on other relevant
matters. From Tuesday, with Sun
entering your Sign, you will once again
get busy with work. The bug of overspending too will not bother you, as it
may have in the past few weeks. Thus,
you save more now. However, troubles
related to personal life will stress you.
There does not seem to be a way out
at this juncture. Combined influence of
Mars and Saturn over the 10th House
from your Sign will keep you busy
with an important project. Influence
of Saturn over your Sign and also over
planets already placed therein, does
not bode well for your health. Chronic
health problems will re-surface,
needing immediate attention.

Libra

On Tuesday, Sun comes out of Leo and

enters Virgo. Now issues concerning
relationships, particularly those dear
to you, may get resolved amicably.

August 26, 2016

17

Both parties come half way to shake

hands. However, you will not be at
peace still. Some matter or the other
will trouble you and keep you anxious.
Saturn has influence over the twelfth
House along with a cluster of planets
positioned there. This will further
worsen the situation. What you need
here is some time for yourself, to think
things through. Develop some creative
hobby to keep you busy. Do not sit idle.
Financially you will be comfortable at
this juncture. With regards to health, no
major threat is foreseen here.

ruled by earthly Sign, Virgo. Cluster of

planets in the ninth House could give
you a new direction and also strengthen
your position financially. However,
influence of Saturn over the ninth
House, along with planets transiting
therein, leads to some setback. Do not
get deterred by fluctuations in fortune.
Remain motivated and do your best.
Influence of Saturn looks inauspicious
for health. Some chronic health issue
can catch up with you. Be vigilant
about symptoms and warning signs,
and visit a doctor at the earliest.

The presence of Moon in Aries is

indicative of a minor setback. Do not
get deterred. Instead work extra hard
and wait for results to follow. On
Tuesday, Sun comes out of own Sign
Leo to enter an earthly sign Virgo.
Now five planets are transiting through
Virgo. This will lead to some financial
gains. But, as far as relationships are
concerned, there seems to be some
stumbling blocks. There could be
some complex issues that stress you.
You need to take the advice of an
elder who has gone through turbulent
relationships during their lifetime. Stop
overreacting. Put things in perspective.
Influence of Saturn will teach you to
keep low, when the wind is not blowing
in your favour.

In the coming days, you will enjoy

socializing, partying and making
meaningful, sincere relationships.
This refreshes you substantially. On
Tuesday, Sun leaves own Sign Leo
to enter an easy going earthly Sign
Virgo, eighth from your sign. With
so many planets in the eighth House,
progress gets hindered. Handle money
carefully. Refrain from making any
fresh investments for now. However,
you may get some money through
inheritance here. Routine takes over
now, pushing love and romance to
the background. Even singles may
not be interested in relationships, as
they shall be caught up with other
priorities. Freshers may find a good
job, this week, provided they give
their best shot. As far as your health is
concerned, middle-aged and above will
need to be careful at this juncture. Rest
of you shall enjoy good health, indicate
the stars.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

In the coming days you could be hurt

and shocked by the offensive behavior
of someone you are emotionally
attached to. This is due to the position
of Moon as ruler of the eighth House,
transiting through the fifth House, is
indicative of this painful experience.
However, with Moon entering downto-earth Taurus, you will come out of
this emotional assault unscathed and be
your usual self again. On Tuesday, Sun
changes Sign to enter a mutable Sign
Virgo. Businessmen and professionals
will be happy during this phase. If you
have been nursing big dreams, now
is the time to turn them into reality.
Though, it is easier said than done.
Mars and Saturn may push you to exert
yourself and extend working hours
if need be. Job holders will receive
due appreciation for their committed
efforts. Here, you will need to be
careful about your health, particularly
some viral infection.

Capricorn

The week will open with you getting

busy with domestic matters. You will
not be able to neglect these issues under
any circumstances. Around Tuesday,
Sun changes Sign to enter Mercury

Aquarius

Pisces

This week you will draw up a clear

agenda for yourself. That is to spend
time with your family, fulfill their
needs and keep them happy. However,
unfortunately, some constraints or
the other prevent you from doing
so. Sun comes out of Leo to enter an
earthly Sign Virgo, in opposition to
your Sign, on Tuesday. Cluster of
planets in the seventh House could
pollute harmony in marital life. Also,
disturbances and distractions may
not allow you to remain focused
and perform effectively. As a result,
professionals could face difficulty in
finishing their project according to
commitment. They may have to pay a
price for not adhering to deadline. As
far as health is concerned, you need to
be careful here. A minor issue can flare
up to uncontrollable proportions, if not
treated promptly. Chronic problems of
middle aged and above could worsen.
Try alternative medicines. It could
help bring relief.

OBizz.com

18

info@gobizz.ca

World News

August 26, 2016

Police Question Auckland Driver Over Alleged Hit And

Run That Broke Boy's Leg

Police are questioning a driver over

an alleged hit and run that broke a
toddler's leg in Flat Bush, Auckland.
Police said a 23-year-old man is
assisting police with inquiries.
Cousins Karamveer and Manraj Singh,
both 4, were crossing Baverstock Rd
in Flat Bush with Karamveer's mother
Mandeep Kaur on August 18. They
were on their way to preschool.
Kaur checked the road was clear, saw
a white sedan far away but thought she
had plenty of time to cross. But the car
was going fast. Kaur, who is 37 weeks
pregnant, pulled the boys back quickly.
However, Karamveer had already
taken a step forward. The car hit his
right leg breaking the bone.
The sedan did not stop and turned left
onto Chapel Rd.
Kaur said the car came within two
inches of her pregnant belly but she
was too worried about her crying son
to think about it at the time.
Karamveer didn't want to put weight on
his injured leg and they noticed some
swelling and a cut, it wasn't until they got
an x-ray that they knew it was broken.
Two police cars and an ambulance
attended the incident.

Pardeep Singh with his son Karamveer, nephew Manraj and wife Mandeep Kaur.
Counties Manukau Senior Sergeant "Failing to stop and render assistance to see if the child was okay is appalling
Jono Chappell said this is a serious following a vehicle crash is a criminal and we would like to identify the owner
matter which left the mother and offence.
of the vehicle so we can make further
children shaken.
"The fact that this person did not stop inquiries."

At least 60 people have returned to

Canada after spending time fighting in
Iraq, Syria
The number of people with Canadian
connections suspected of travelling
abroad to fight for ISIS and other
terrorist groups has increased to 180,
according to a Public Safety Canada
report on the threat of terrorism to the
country.
That number is up from 130, the figure
reported by the federal department in
early 2014. More than half of these
travellers are now believed to be in
Turkey, Iraq or Syria.
The increase is attributed to Islamic
State in Iraq and Syria's declaration of a
"caliphate" an influential recruiting
tool for extremists in the West in
June 2014 and the naming of Abu Bakr
al-Baghdadi as its leader. The number
is relatively low, given that at least
6,600 individuals from all Western
countries have travelled to the region
to partake in terrorist activities.
"Canadian
extremist
travellers
represent a small but notable part of
the broader international problem," the
report reads.
The number of women travelling
abroad for "terrorism-related activities"
also increased substantially. The report
adds that female recruits now account
for nearly 20 per cent of all people
leaving Canada destined for regions
where terrorist groups have a foothold,
and many of them are training for
combat. Others are bringing their

children abroad and marrying terrorists,

the report says.
ISIS is now 'Daesh'
Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale
prefaced the report by announcing
the federal government would begin
referring to ISIS as Daesh, the Arabic
acronym of the group's name.
"This group is neither Islamic nor a
state," Goodale wrote.
This puts Canada in line with its allies,
Western and Arab alike including
U.S. President Barack Obama that
have opted to use the name over other
iterations. The word is hated by the
group's militants because it is similar to
the Arabic word "Dahes," which means
"one who sows discord."
The report comes only weeks after
ISIS sympathizer Aaron Driver was
killed in Strathroy, Ont. by the RCMP
ahead of an expected attack. Driver,
24, was under a court-ordered peace
bond intended to limit his activities
after the RCMP became aware of his
communications with what they said
were well-known ISIS supporters in
the U.K. and the U.S.
Goodale is now in the final stages of
picking a senior adviser who will
spearhead an anti-terror program to
counter this sort of radicalization,
with a new national office opening
sometime this year.
Canada is also contributing $1 million
to Interpol, the group that facilitates
police activity around the world, to
help countries on the frontline of this

More Canadians Travelling Abroad To Join ISIS, Other

Terrorist Groups, Report Says
terrorism migration stop the flow. That
funding will be directed at boosting the
"skills of counter-terrorism personnel"
at crucial border checkpoints.
Fighters have returned to Canada
The terrorist threat level in Canada is
still classified as "medium," meaning
a violent act "could" occur. That
classification remains unchanged since
the attacks of October 2014 when two
Canadian Forces members were killed
by men with ties to ISIS.
But the report raises red flags about the
potential harm people with Canadian
connections could do if and when they
return home.
According to the report, at least 60
people who have travelled abroad to
fight for terrorists groups are back in
Canada.
"The experiences and intentions of
these individuals vary," the report said.
"They may have skills, experience
and relationships developed abroad
that could be used to recruit or inspire
individuals in Canada. They may also
engage in terrorist financing, helping
others to travel, or even planning
attacks in Canada."
The violent attacks carried out in Paris
and Brussels by fighters loyal to
ISIS were recent returnees from
Iraq and Syria, for example.
"An individual or small group can be
inspired to carry out an act of violence
in Canada with little or no warning,"
the report reads. "Even small-scale
terrorist attacks have significant

psychological and economic impacts."

A spokesperson for Goodale said the
government is seized with the issue
of returning fighters and is prepared
to revoke passports and bar potential
terrorists from boarding flights through
the Passenger Protect Program,
Canada's version of the no-fly list.
Charges will also be laid against
foreign fighters when there is sufficient
evidence.
Twenty individuals have been
convicted of terrorism offences
since 2002. Another 21 charged with
terrorism-related offences (including
16 since January last year) are now
awaiting trial, or have outstanding
warrants for their arrest.

info@gobizz.ca

World News

August 26, 2016

19

Italy Earthquake: Violent Aftershocks Hamper Rescue

Efforts In Amatrice

Key points:
Death toll has reached 250 but
authorities fear more bodies buried in
rubble
Eight foreigners were mong dead
three British, two Romanian, and
one each from Spain, Canada and El
Salvador
Prime
Minister
Matteo
Renzi
announced launch of new plan to help
better prepare for earthquakes
Aftershocks are hampering rescue
efforts in the Italian town of Amatrice,
as rescue workers desperately race
against time in the search for survivors.
Violent tremors in the mountainous
Italian communities have sent rescuers
scrambling from the rubble and forced
teams to temporarily abandon their
efforts as more rocks and stones fell and
already damaged buildings crumpled.
The death toll from Wednesday's
powerful quake in central Italy has
reached 250, although authorities fear
more bodies remain buried underneath
the rubble.
At least eight foreigners were among
the dead, officials said.
Three British citizens were killed
one a 14-year-old boy from London
and while the British foreign ministry
did not immediately confirm the report,
Foreign Minister Boris Johnson said
a number of British nationals were
affected.
Two Romanians were among the
dead, the country's foreign ministry
said Thursday, while four nationals
were injured and eight more were still
missing.
Spain's foreign minister said one
Spanish national had been killed, and
Canada and El Salvador both said that
one of their citizens had been killed in
the earthquake.
launches plan to better prepare for
future quakes
As rescuers sifted through collapsed
masonry in the search for survivors,
questions mounted as to why there had
been so many deaths so soon after the
2009 L'Aquila disaster, exposing Italy's
vulnerability to earthquakes.
"In Amatrice alone we are already
over 200 deaths," said Sergio Pirozzi,
the mayor of one of the worst-affected
villages, suggesting the total number of
victims could rise significantly.
Prime
Minister
Matteo
Renzi
announced the launch of a plan to help
better prepare Italy for earthquakes
after the disaster.
"Italy should have plan that is not
just limited to the management of
emergency situations," he said after a
cabinet meeting.
"[In this area] we are the best in the
world, but that's not enough."
Mr Renzi admitted that Italy has a
difficult task ahead to secure buildings
and its vast collection of historical
heritage against quake damage, but
said that modern technology could
play a role.

He also stressed that priority would be

given to securing "a place to sleep" for
those who had lost their homes in the
quake.
Giuseppe Saieva, the chief public
prosecutor for most of the area
affected, said he would be opening
an investigation into whether anyone
could be held responsible for the
disaster.
Culture Minister Dario Franceschini
said Thursday that some 293 historical
buildings were damaged or destroyed
by the quake.

A total of 215 people have been rescued

from the rubble since Wednesday
morning.
But there have been no reports
of survivors being found since
Wednesday evening, when eight-yearold Giorgia was rescued 16 hours after
being trapped, having been located by
a labrador called Leo.
Hundreds of people spent Wednesday
night sleeping in their cars or in hastilyassembled tents, the aftershocks adding
to their discomfort.
Mario, a father of two small boys, said

he was still in shock. "We slept in the

car last night, though with the quakes it
was hard to sleep at all," he said.
"We've booked a tent for tonight. But
then tomorrow, the next day?"
The extensive damage to lightly-used
properties has raised the spectre of
some of the smaller hamlets in the
region becoming ghost towns.
"If we don't get help, l'Arquata is
finished," said Aleandro Petrucci, the
mayor of Arquata del Tronto, which
accounted for 57 of the confirmed
deaths to date.

Indian National Who Groped Two

Women Sent To Prison
An Indian man living in New Zealand
has been sent to prison for pulling
down a Japanese woman's bottoms
before indecently assaulting her and
groping another woman so hard she
cried out in pain.
Vijaydeep Teja, 27, pleaded guilty to two
counts of indecent assault after a drunken
night in Auckland central which led to
him being chased by bystanders, jumping
off a balcony and suffering injuries so
severe he was taken to hospital.
Originally from India, Teja arrived
in the country earlier this year but on
March 10 about 10.30pm approached
a Japanese woman who was walking
home from work along Hobson St
while looking at her cellphone.
Teja pushed her on the shoulder, she
fell to the ground and he told her:
"Want to s*** my d***?"
According to court documents, she
said "no" but was too terrified to say

anything more.
Teja pulled up her T-shirt, exposing her
bra, then pulled down her bottoms and
indecently assaulted her. Someone who
saw the attack ran over and Teja ran away.
The person chased him and Teja took
flight - as he ran he groped another
woman, causing her to yell out in pain.
Another person joined the chase and
as he was running away, Teja fell. The
people told him to stay put but he got
up and continued to flee, jumping off
a first storey balcony on Nelson St,
badly injuring his head and arms. He
was taken to hospital.
As Judge Robert Ronayne read from
the Japanese woman's victim impact
statement, which was translated into
Punjab, Teja appeared calm and nodded.
The woman said she had wanted to
stay in New Zealand longer, but the
assault forced her to leave sooner than
she'd wanted and she was now afraid to

go outside, even during the day.

However, Teja showed no remorse
for his offending, denied it was him,
blamed it on the alcohol and tried to
blame one of his victims, according to
a pre-sentence report.
He also had an "entrenched sense of
self entitlement" and wanted the judge
to take into account his nationality.
Judge Ronayne refused to do this
because it would "create two classes of
criminals".
He called Teja's offending "brazen" and
chose not to commute a prison sentence
to one of community detention because
of his high risk of harming others and
medium risk of re-offending.
"Once she [the first victim] had told you
'no' . . . you persisted with your attack.
This was no fleeting indecency."
Judge Ronayne sentenced Teja to one
year and eight months in prison for both
offences to be served concurrently.

20

info@gobizz.ca

World News

August 26, 2016

Canada's Mounties Allow Women Officers To Wear

Hijab
Hoping to boost recruiting of Muslim
women, the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police is allowing its officers to wear
hijabs as part of their uniforms, the
government said Tuesday.
"The commissioner of the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police recently
approved this addition to the uniform,"
Public Safety Minister Ralph
Goodale's spokesman Scott Bardsley
told AFP.
"This is intended to better reflect the
diversity in our communities and
encourage more Muslim women to
consider the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police as a career option," he said.

The RCMP officer's uniform -- a red

serge tunic, leather riding boots and
wide-brimmed felt campaign hat -- is
an iconic Canadian symbol.
It dates back to the 1800s, when
the RCMP's forerunner, the frontier
North-West
Mounted
Police,
spread law and order to the wilds
of Canada's western provinces and
Arctic territories.
Inspired by British military uniforms
of the period, it has since undergone
only minor changes.
The RCMP faced a public outcry in
1990 over a decision to allow Sikh
officers to wear turbans as part of their

uniforms. Attitudes have softened since

then and Canadians have embraced the
change.
Three types of hijabs were tested before
one was selected as suitable for police
work, according to correspondence
between
Goodale
and
RCMP
Commissioner Bob Paulson published
in a local newspaper.
The garment did not encumber officers
and could be removed quickly and
easily if needed, the Montreal daily La
Presse reported an internal memo as
saying.
No officers had yet asked to wear
hijabs as of earlier this year, when the

policy was quietly enacted.

Updated figures were not immediately
available.
However, some 30 officers had asked
for a relaxing of the rules for religious
or cultural reasons over the past two
years, La Presse reported. In most
cases, the officers wanted to grow
beards.
With the latest uniform change, the
RCMP becomes the third police force
in Canada to add the hijab option after
Toronto and Edmonton.
Police in Britain, Sweden and Norway,
as well as some US states, have adopted
similar policies, Bardsley said.

Doctors In India Remove 40 Knives From Man's Stomach

Doctors in northern India have

surgically removed 40 knives from the
stomach of a man who had swallowed
them over the past two months, one of
the physicians said Tuesday.
The 42-year-old man is recovering
in a hospital in Punjab state after
undergoing surgery in which doctors
removed the knives some folded
and some with exposed blades up to 18
centimetres (7 inches) long.
Dr. Jatinder Malhotra, who assisted during
the five-hour operation, said the man,
who works as a police constable, was
apparently suffering from a psychiatric
disorder and is now being counseled.
Malhotra said he had never before
heard of a case of a person swallowing
knives.
"In my 20-year career, and in all the
medical literature that we checked,
there has never been a case like this
one, where a person has swallowed not
one, but 40 knives," said Malhotra, a
critical care doctor at the Corporate
Hospital in the city of Amritsar.
The man told doctors that he could not
explain his urge to swallow knives. "He
told us he would swallow the knives
along with a glass of water," Malhotra
said. "He had no explanation for why
he did it. Just an urge."
The man, who has not been identified,
had come to the hospital two weeks
ago complaining of severe pain in his
abdomen.
"In an endoscopy, we saw a big mass in his
abdominal area," Malhotra said by phone.
"We initially thought it was a tumour or

some cancerous growth. But it was like

nothing we doctors had seen before."
A team of two surgeons, two critical
care physicians and an anesthetist
conducted the surgery, during which
they initially removed 28 knives. But

further investigation revealed 12 more,

the hospital said.
There was massive internal bleeding
during the surgery because the knives,
which were all made of iron, had
lacerated the man's stomach walls,

Malhotra said.
Since the surgery, the man has told
doctors that he can't bear to look at
another knife. "He even asked his wife to
get out of the room when she was cutting
some fruit for him," Malhotra said.

Three men have been charged in China

following the murder of two women with
mental disabilities whose corpses were
to be sold for use in "ghost weddings".
One of the men posed as a matchmaker
for the women but killed them with an
injection of drugs before taking them
hundreds of miles to face a grim burial.
"Ghost weddings" date back almost
3,000 years, and involve elderly
bachelors being given "brides" to be
buried with when they die.

The Telegraph visited a village in

northern China earlier this year where
15 corpses had been stolen from their
burial sites for use in the ancient ritual.
Families in rural China consider it bad luck
for a single man to pass into the afterlife
without a female companion at his side.
And despite efforts by Beijing to clamp
down on superstitions, demand is said
to be increasing for female corpses.
The three men, who police said were called
Ma, Tang and An, sold one of the women's

corpses for 35,000 yuan (NZ$7192).

The men, who are all from China's
northwest Gansu province, were
stopped by police in April when they
were driving the body of a woman to
Shaanxi for the ghost wedding.
Ma confessed that he told the woman
that they would find her a groom before
injecting her with powerful sedatives
which killed her.
He killed a woman in similar
circumstances in February and sold the

body in Shaanxi. He now faces murder

charges while his two accomplices face
charges relating to human trafficking
and concealing the murder.
The black market in selling human
remains is believed to have grown
in recent years as China's economic
boom has seen the rural wealthy pay
large sums to meet the needs of their
deceased loved ones.
State media have previously said corpses
of younger women can fetch up to $18,000.

Murdered Mentally Disabled Women Sold As 'Corpse Brides' In China

info@gobizz.ca

World News

August 26, 2016

21

Dozens of Calgary realtors owed more than $1M as

Discover Real Estate folds
At least 70 real estate agents in Calgary
are still owed more than $1 million in
commissions on the homes they sold
before Discover Real Estate went
bust in May, according to documents
obtained by CBC News.
The company officially closed down
around the end of July, leaving many of
its former realtors hanging a trend
that some industry insiders say shows a
gap in real estate regulation in Alberta.
Calgary's luxury real estate market
rebounds, Sotheby's report says
Calgary home sales and prices down
again in June
"It's disgusting. It's theft," said Ibrahim
Elhage, a former Discover Real Estate
agent who has recently refinanced his
own home to stay afloat.
He says the brokerage still owes him
$122,866 in unpaid commission.
The 33-year-old had been a top realtor
with the company for more than a
decade.
Despite the economic downturn,
Elhage said 2015 was a good year for
him. But when Discover kept delaying
his commission payments, he knew
something was wrong.
"They've always been a little bit slower
to pay commissions," Elhage recalled.
"It would be two weeks, three weeks,
sometimes a month. But in the last year
or so it got more out of hand. It got
worse because you'd stay there hoping
to recover some of the money."
Elhage said he tried talking to the
owner of Discover, Graham Mayne
a well-known name in the Calgary real
estate industry to no avail. Three
other real estate agents contacted by
the CBC News reported similar futile
efforts.
CBC News has also tried contacting

Mayne, who founded Discover Real

Estate in 1995. He initially wrote back
with a short reply:
"I will phone you when I have the money
to pay the agents. That will be very
soon," Mayne wrote in an email dated
July 16. A follow-up email has since
bounced back citing invalid recipient.
At its height, Discover was the largest
independent real estate brokerage in
Alberta, with more than 600 agents
under its wings. In the spring of
2016, Mayne sent out a notice to all
of his agents, informing them about
Discover's impending closure.
"It is with a heavy heart that I must
advise you that you need to move your
licence to another brokerage," stated an
email dated May 3.
No protection for realtors
Former Discover realtor Hong Wang
said she tried complaining to the Real
Estate Council of Alberta (RECA)
the non-government body responsible
for regulating real estate professionals
and brokerages in the province
only to discover commissions are not
insured or protected.
"I said, 'If the company is broke, of
course realtors' money is protected. We
must have insurance, we pay all kinds
of people all kinds of fees,'" said Wang.
"And then I realized, what happened to
our money? Is our money protected?
No! I was just speechless. What do you
mean no?"
Calgary real estate market continues
to cool as house sales drop for 20th
month in a row
Why Calgary's real estate prices
haven't been hit as hard as the rest of
the economy yet
Under Alberta law, when a home is
sold the portion that goes to the seller

or outgoing homeowner must be held

in a trust until the deal is complete.
That money is further insured so that
consumers are always protected.
Agent fees, on the other hand, can go into
the brokerage's general account before
agents get their cut. All realtors wishing
to practise in Alberta are required by
law to register with a brokerage. And
brokerages typically deal with agents
as independent contractors.
"When a consumer is doing a transaction
with a real estate professional, they are
signing a written agreement saying 'I'm
hiring you to list my house or to assist
me in buying a house,'" explained
Natalie Scollard with RECA.
'Civil matter'
"As much as they are talking to that
individual real estate professional, or
that team of real estate professionals,
the agreement is actually with the
brokerage the parent company if you
will. When that consumer is paying the
services, they are actually paying to the
brokerage."
In that sense, when a brokerage fails to
pay its agents, Scollard said it's really no
different than a construction company
failing to pay for its independently
contracted roofers and framers.
"So that would be a civil matter," said
Scollard, adding realtors can pursue
their commissions through the small
claims courts.
A worrying trend in real estate
Discover Real Estate is the second
major brokerage to go bust in the
Calgary region within the past year.
When Royal Lepage Foothills shut
down in December, many of its agents
reportedly went through a similar
ordeal.
Realtor Jeff Rolheiser said word travels

quickly about a brokerage in trouble,

which could affect home sales.
"If you had your house listed with
Discover Real Estate through this
period, there were realtors out there
and I can't quantify for you, I can't
give you a percentage but there
were realtors out there that would not
show listings by Discover Real Estate
because they were concerned about
possibly getting paid," he said.
Rolheiser said a similar solution would
be to amend the Real Estate Act of
Alberta requiring brokerages to put
agent fees into a trust. Some companies
already do so voluntarily with great
success, he added.
Another public issue is the fact that
real estate commission includes five
per cent GST.
Some former Discover agents said
they've tried tipping the police and
Canada Revenue Agency about it.
The problem has become serious
enough that a group of industry insiders
have now formed a "commissions-atrisk working group" to explore options
for change.
Calgary realtor says foreign buyers not
affecting local market
Calgary's real estate future: questions
and answers
"The working group expects to have a
survey out fairly soon to members to
licencees and real estate professionals
in Alberta asking them what they
want," said Scollard.
"I think we're hearing from a vocal
minority who feel they have been
wronged and they want this addressed.
Yet I think if we're talking about
making changes that are going to affect
12,000 people, we need to look at the
biggest picture."

India Floods: Over 300 Dead, Millions Affected As

Monsoon Floods Force Villagers Into Relief Camps

At least 300 people have died in

eastern and central India and more than
6 million others have been affected by
floods that have submerged villages,
washed away crops, destroyed roads
and disrupted power and phone lines,
officials say.
Heavy monsoon rains have caused
rivers, including the mighty Ganges
and its tributaries, to burst their banks
forcing people into relief camps in the
states of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar
Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand.
Government officials in Bihar, which
has seen some of the worst flooding
this year with almost 120 dead and
more than 5 million affected, said the
situation was serious.
"The flood waters have engulfed lowlying areas, homes and fields of crops,"
said Zafar Rakib, a district magistrate
of Katihar, one of 24 districts out of
Bihar's 38 districts which have been hit
by the deluge.

The holy city of Varanasi, where

thousands of Hindus flock daily, was
also forced to halt cremations along
the banks of sacred Ganges river
forcing families to cremate their
relatives on the terrace roofs of nearby
houses, officials said.
Television pictures showed villagers
wading waist deep in floodwaters with
their livestock, mud-and-brick homes
collapsing and people climbing into
wooden boats to get to relief camps.
"We are all worried about what we
should do. For the last four days we
have living like this. We don't even
have any food to eat," 42-year-old
villager Doda Yadav told the NDTV
news station from Ballia district in
Uttar Pradesh.
Officials said villagers would return
home from relief camps when water
levels receded, although the Indian
Meteorological
Department
has
forecast more rains for central India

over the next two days.

Modi pledges 'total support in rescue,
relief operations'
India usually experiences monsoon
rains from June to September, which
are vital for its agriculture making
up 18 per cent of its gross domestic
product and providing employment for
almost half its 1.3 billion population.
But in many states across the country,
the rains frequently cause landslides
and flooding that devastate crops,
destroy homes and expose people to
diseases such as diarrhoea.
Officials said the fast-flowing waters
had breached embankments and
eroded dykes in some areas, leaving
some roads inaccessible, compounding
efforts to rescue marooned villagers.

India's National Disaster Response

Forces (NDRF) have been deployed
to the five states, rescuing more than
33,000 people stranded in remote
villages.
The devastation prompted Prime
Minister Narendra Modi on Monday
to offer additional support from the
federal government.
"I pray for the safety and well-being of
those in areas affected by floods," Mr
Modi said in a statement.
"The centre assures total support in the
rescue and relief operations."
Aid agencies responding in Bihar and
Uttar Pradesh said it was critical to be
better prepared to minimise the deaths,
displacement and devastation which is
caused every year.

OBizz.com

22

Recipe

info@gobizz.ca

Crispy Fried Noodles

August 26, 2016

Chow Mein
Ingredients
You will need:
8 ounces thin spaghetti
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons Five Spice Powder
1/3 cup broccoli florets
1/4 cup carrots, sliced
1/4 cup snap peas
1/4 cup sliced Shiitake mushrooms
2 cups chicken, cooked and diced
1/2 - 1 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Preparation
Bring pot of water to boil and cook
noodles for 8 to 10 minutes or until al
dente. Drain and set noodles aside.
While noodles are boiling, heat 2
teaspoons olive oil in large skillet and
add sliced onions and minced garlic.

Crispy Fried Noodles are delicious,

especially when made at home. This
recipe is quick and easy, and fulfilling
for the entire family to enjoy! Add
vegetables to give Crispy Fried
Noodles your own flare.
Ingredients
You will need:
16 ounces vermicelli pasta
4 green onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1 carrot, grated
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 beaten eggs
3 - 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
Preparation
Boil noodles in large pot until al dente,
about 8 to 10 minutes.
Scramble eggs in small skillet until
firm and set aside.

Ingredients
1 egg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup beer
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups flaked coconut
24 shrimp
3 cups oil for frying
Directions
In medium bowl, combine egg, 1/2
cup flour, beer and baking powder.
Place 1/4 cup flour and coconut in two
separate bowls.
Hold shrimp by tail, and dredge in
flour, shaking off excess flour. Dip in
egg/beer batter; allow excess to drip
off. Roll shrimp in coconut, and place
on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Meanwhile,
heat oil to 350 degrees F (175 degrees
C) in a deep-fryer.
Fry shrimp in batches: cook, turning
once, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden
brown. Using tongs, remove shrimp to
paper towels to drain. Serve warm with
your favorite dipping sauce.

In larger skillet, heat 2 tablespoons

vegetable oil. Saut sliced green
onions, diced bell pepper, and grated
carrots until softened. Remove from
pan, and set aside.
Place sesame oil and 1 tablespoon
vegetable oil in skillet. Place noodles in
oil. Fry 3 to 5 minutes, making sure to
turn noodles often to avoid scorching.
Add sauted vegetables, and continue
cooking for additional 3 minutes.
Remove from heat. Top with scrambled
egg and serve.
Variations
Toss with cooked shrimp, diced
chicken or pork.
For spice, add crushed red peppers.
Garnish with diced green onions.
For vegetarian Crispy Fried Noodles,
disregard scrambled egg.

Coconut Shrimp

Saut 1 to 2 minutes.
In same skillet, add ground ginger,
Five Spice powder, broccoli florets,
sliced carrots, snap peas and sliced
Shiitake mushrooms. Saut 3 to 4 more
minutes.
Add noodles, continuing to stir until
well blended.
Add chicken stock and diced chicken.
Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes over
medium heat.
Remove from heat. Stir in soy sauce,
and serve.
Variations
Substitute 2 cups cooked, cleaned
shrimp or cooked slices of pork for
diced chicken.
For spice, add chili flakes to taste.
Add your favorite vegetables, like
shredded cabbage, during Step 3.
Garnish with sesame seeds.
Flavor to taste with soy sauce.

Health

info@gobizz.ca

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Good

For Heart Attack Patients
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have
some anti-inflammatory properties
which allows the heart to contract
better and reduces the fibrosis in the
undamaged muscle, a new study has
revealed.
According to the study, published in the
journal Circulation, giving heart attack
patients a high dose of omega-3 fatty
acids daily for six months after a heart
attack can improve its functioning.
A previous study found that omega-3
fatty acids from fish oil were associated
with improved survival for heart attack
patients but the role of omega-3 fatty
acids in improving the structure and
tissue of the heart in patients receiving
current guideline-based therapy after a
heart attack was unknown.
The study involved 360 heart attack
survivors, half were given a high dose
omega-3 fatty acids and half placebo,
beginning within a month of the heart
attack. Because the study participants
were given high doses of omega-3s

in addition to their other medications,

patients were under a physician's care
and observed for any potential adverse
outcomes.
The researchers found that compared
to those taking a placebo, patients
taking a dose of 4 grams of omega-3
fatty acids daily for six months
experienced a 5.8 per cent reduction
in left ventricular end-systolic volume
index and had a 5.6 per cent reduction
in a measurement of scarred connective
tissue (fibrosis) formation in the nondamaged heart muscle.
"Heart failure is still a major problem
after a heart attack despite all the
therapy we have and the advances in
interventional care. Our findings show
that omega-3 fatty acids are a safe
and effective treatment in improving
cardiac remodeling, so it may be
promising in reducing the incidence of
heart failure or death," said Raymond
Y. Kwong, Associate Professor,
Harvard Medical School.

Essential nutrition for good health

While eating healthy is essential for
both the sexes, men and women have
different dietary requirements. Here
are some foods that every woman must
include in her diet...
Flax seeds
Have Flax seeds daily for overall
good health. They are a good source
of Omega-3 fatty acids and are known
to reduce the risk of heart disease
and breast cancer. They also have
anti-inflammatory properties that
prevent arthritis, apart from digestive
properties which help ease irritable
bowel syndrome.
Salmon
Not only is salmon rich in iron, which
is usually lacking in women, but it is
also full of omega-3 fatty acids, known
to improve your mood. Experts say
that omega-3 helps treat depression
and prevent mood swings.
Cranberries
Certain studies over the years have
found a link between eating Cranberries
and how it reduces the risk of breast
cancer and heart disease. Also, they
have the ability to prevent and cure
urinary tract infections. Have a glass of
cranberry juice every other day.
Spinach
While this might not be a much-loved
food, spinach is packed with a host of
vitamins, minerals and high amounts
of magnesium. And magnesium is
known to help reduce the physical
symptoms of PMS like swelling, breast
tenderness, bloating and weight gain.
Walnuts
Experts say that walnuts have
omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants
and phytosterols all important in

reducing the risk of breast cancer.

The high omega-3 content also helps
bone health, arthritis and depression.
Walnuts also comprise nutrients like
calcium, magnesium and folic acid.
Oats
Oats are bursting with health-boosting
nutrients, great for female health. They
keep your heart healthy, are great for
digestion, keep blood pressure levels
in check and also contain vitamin B6,
which helps prevent PMS and mood
swings. Another component folic
acid prevents birth defects in babies
and is essential for women during and
after pregnancy.
Milk
Calcium deficiency is one of the major
health concerns that affects women
worldwide. Milk is an absolute must
for women at any age. A great source
of calcium, milk, when combined with
vitamin D, is one of the best ways to
keep osteoporosis at bay. Milk is also
helpful in preventing symptoms of the
dreaded PMS.
Tomatoes
A carotenoid that is essential for
good health is lycopene, which is
a pigment found in Tomatoes. And
several studies have said that lycopene
can help prevent breast cancer. Apart
from this, there is also evidence that
suggests that it reduces the risk of
heart disease.

Healthy Foods Every

Woman Must Eat

August 26, 2016

23

Plant Sterols Help Lower

Your Cholesterol
Coronary heart disease is the number
one cause of death around the world.
High blood levels of the bad
or LDL (low-density lipoprotein)
cholesterol can create a buildup of
plaque (cholesterol deposits) inside the
arteries. This can lead to narrowing of
the arteries and a higher risk of having
a heart attack or stroke. The good
news is that following a heart healthy
lifestyle, including a heart healthy diet,
can help you control your cholesterol
levels and lower your overall risk of
heart disease.
What are plant sterols?
Plant sterols also called phytosterols
are substances naturally found in
plant-based foods and have been in our
diet for thousands of years. Plant sterols
are naturally found in many heart
healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables,
nuts and grains, and in vegetable oils
like sunflower, safflower and canola
oils. However, it is difficult to consume
enough plant sterols from these foods
to see a significant effect. Studies show
that consuming 2 grams of plant sterols
daily can help to lower your cholesterol
by up to 9%.
How do plant sterols work?
Researchers have been studying the
cholesterol-lowering effects of plant
sterols since the 1950s. Plant sterols

work by helping to remove cholesterol

from the body, by partially blocking
its absorption into the bloodstream.
The cholesterol that is not absorbed is
eliminated from the body.
How can you eat more plant sterols?
International health experts such as the
American Heart Association, as part
of the National Cholesterol Education
Program, suggest eating 2 grams of
plant sterols a day to enhance a LDL
cholesterol-lowering lifestyle and diet.
Heres what you can do to get more
plant sterols in your diet:
Enjoy a variety of vegetables and fruit
every day. Aim for 7-10 servings a day,
as recommended by Canada's Food
Guide.
Eat 2-3 servings of plant sterol-fortified
foods each day.
Cook and bake with vegetable oils and
non-hydrogenated margarines made
from vegetable oils.
Snack on nuts, like almonds and
walnuts, or sprinkle a small handful on
your cereal and salads.
Include whole grains in your meals.
Look for recipes that use barley, brown
rice, oats and quinoa.
Along with eating well, remember to
follow a heart healthy lifestyle: quit
smoking, manage stress and be active
every day.

Your mom was right, broccoli is great

for you! A new study has given out
more reasons to eat this vegetable.
The University of Illinois researchers
have identified candidate genes
controlling the accumulation of
phenolic compounds in broccoli.
Consumption of phenolic compounds,
including certain flavonoids, is
associated with a lower risk of coronary
heart disease, type II diabetes, asthma,
and several types of cancer.
"Phenolic compounds have good
antioxidant activity, and there
is increasing evidence that this
antioxidant activity affects biochemical
pathways affiliated with inflammation
in mammals. We need inflammation
because it's a response to disease or
damage, but it's also associated with
initiation of a number of degenerative
diseases. People whose diets consist of
a certain level of these compounds will
have a lesser risk of contracting these
diseases," explained geneticist Jack
Juvik.
The researchers crossed two broccoli
lines and tested their progeny in terms
of total phenolic content and their
ability to neutralize oxygen radicals
in cellular assays. They then used a
genetic technique called quantitative
trait locus analysis to search for the
genes involved in generating phenolics
in the most promising progeny.

By identifying the genes involved

in accumulating these compounds,
the researchers are one step closer to
breeding broccoli and related Brassica
vegetables like kale and cabbage with
mega-doses of phenolic compounds.
"It's going to take a while," Juvik notes.
"This work is a step in that direction,
but is not the final answer. We plan to
take the candidate genes we identified
here and use them in a breeding
program to improve the health benefits
of these vegetables. Meanwhile, we'll
have to make sure yield, appearance,
and taste are maintained as well."

Finish Your Broccoli To

Stay Healthy

24

August 26, 2016

info@gobizz.ca

Comedian-Actor Krushana When Anil Kapoor Called

Abhisheks Father Passes Akshay Kumar And Suniel
Away
Shetty Half-Heroes

Popular comedian-actor and host of

Comedy Nights Bachao, Krushna
Abhisheks father Aatma Prakash
Sharma passed away on Friday
morning, August 26 at his Mumbai
residence. He was 75.
His last rites was reportedly taken
place in Mumbai.
Aatma Prakash Sharma, who happens
to be Bollywood actor Govindas
brother-in-law, was battling cancer
for the past few years, but his
condition worsened in the last 15-20
days.

Krushnas cousin and television actress

Ragini Khanna said, He was a very
nice human being and was battling
cancer for over six months. He was
under constant care of doctors and
family. We pray for strength from God
in these tough times."
Krushna and his sister Aarti Singh,
along with the family had recently
celebrated their fathers 75th birthday.
Krushnas wife Kashmera Shah had
also shared some photographs of her
father-in-law from the celebrations and
wished him.

But the comeback of this hit duo was

the best
Akshay Kumar and Anil Kapoor
have worked together in movies like
Bewafaa, Humko Deewana Kar Gaye,
Tashan and super hit Welcome. Their
blow hot blow cold camaraderie in
Welcome was seen to be believed. But
little is known about their off-screen
face-off.
Things go back to 1994, when everyone
was surprised with the blockbuster
success of Mohra, which starred the
then hit pairing of Akshay Kumar and
Suniel Shetty. The duo were considered
as the desi version of Sylvester
Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
This was the time when action stars
werent considered good actors and if
reports are to believed, Anil Kapoor
took a dig at the two when he attributed
the success of Mohra to the two half-

heroes who joined hands to fill in for

a single hero.
Although its been said that Kapoors
remarks were in his typical humor but
the action duo of Suniel and Akshay
were not the one to take it lightly.
Apparently they returned the favor by
taking a dig at Anil Kapoors Mr India.
They attributed the success of Mr.
India to zero-hero as he was invisible
in the movie most of the time.
During those times a lot was written
about it in the gossip magazines and
columns, but everything settled down
with time and almost a decade later
in 2005 Anil Kapoor worked with
Akshay Kumar in Bewafaa and with
Suniel Shetty in Chocolate: Deep Dark
Secrets. After this Kapoor went on to
collaborate with Shetty and Kumar on
various other movies and they share a
good rapport now.

Just like young designers who are

trying to push boundaries through
their creations, Koirala also wants
Bollywood actresses to do the same.
We had [path-breaking roles] in the
times of Smita Patil and Shabana Azmi
and in between we lost it... By the grace
of God, I got a few opportunities and I
would like that to be continued. I want
young actresses to do meatier roles and

not just only focus on glamour, but

doing substantial, good, performanceoriented roles, Koirala said.
However, she doesnt deny that fashion
in Bollywood has improved.
The standard has risen by ten times.
We really didnt care so much about
fashion, but nowadays everyone is
fashion- and looks-conscious, said the
actress.

Manisha Koirala To Make

Bollywood Comeback With
Dear Maya

Actress put a hold on her career after

she was diagnosed with cancer
Actress Manisha Koirala, known
for her performance in films such as
Saudagar, Khamoshi and Dil Se..., is
back at work with new film Dear Maya.
Koirala was on hiatus after a battle
with cancer.
The actress, who hails from Nepal, was
recently seen shooting for the film at
the zoo in Delhi.
When asked her about the project,
Koirala said: Well, this movie has
an interesting script. This is not my
second innings. I was always here...
And I am around, but yes I will do one
film in a year.
Koirala, who turned 46 earlier this
month, believes in ageing gracefully.
You have to evolve with time. I feel

one should age gracefully, tastefully

and with acceptance... So that is really
important. I feel one should evolve
with time, said the actress, who was
walking the ramp for the brand Chola
at Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) winterfestive 2016 on Friday.

August 26, 2016

info@gobizz.ca

TS Times Sports

25

Ryan Receives Gift From Inmate

Inmate Veresa Naceno gifted national
7s coach Ben Ryan with a portrait.
Despite his busy schedule, Ryan
was at the Tagimoucia Art Gallery in
Korovou, Suva to meet Naceno and
receive the gift.
Naceno said he had been inspired to
paint a portrait of the 7s coach as a
build-up to the Rio Olympics.
I began working on the painting in
June.
When I started working on the
painting, I knew Fiji would come back
with gold. We watched the Olympics
throughout the week of the event on
television so we were fortunate to have
watched all of Fijis 7s matches.
When our 7s team won, it boosted my
morale and fuelled my desire to finish
the painting.
I really wanted to gift it to Mr Ben
Ryan and I still cannot believe that
he made time to come here today so I
can present it to him, said an ecstatic
Naceno.
Ryan said he was honoured to have a
painting done by a very talented young

artist.
Ive seen this all over social media
and everyone has been telling me about

the famous artist in prison whos just

painted a picture of me so Im here to
meet the man and Im very grateful.

Ryan said he hoped to return for

another visit to the gallery before he
departs the country.

Fiji's Sevens Gold Medal Winning Coach Gets 20 Job

Offers Even From New Zealand

Fiji national rugby coach Ben Ryan

says he is weighing almost 20 job offers
that have poured in since he guided the
country to its first-ever gold medal at
the Rio de Janiero Olympics.
Ryan's contract with the Fiji Rugby
Union ends on September 3 and he has
resisted all efforts to keep him in the
job he has held since 2013.
Fiji sports organisations mounted

a major effort to raise money to

match rival offers for Ryan, but the
English coach says money is not the
issue and that he is ready for new
challenges.
One offer is believed to have come
from the Japan national rugby sevens
team and others from Super Rugby
teams in Australia, Japan and New
Zealand raising more questions around

the future of Sir Gordon Tietjens, who

has been at the helm of the All Blacks
Sevens for 22 years.
Sir Gordon was reluctant to talk about
his future in the aftermath of his side's
12-7 quarter-final defeat to Fiji and
Ryan would not specify whether the
offers came from New Zealand Rugby
or other teams in the country.
Since taking on the New Zealand

coaching role in 1994, Sir Gordon has

won four Commonwealth Games titles,
two IRB Sevens World Championship
titles (2001 in Argentina and 2013
in Russia), 12 of the 17 world series
crowns and has nurtured more than 40
future All Blacks.
Sir Gordon's contract is due to expire
soon and it's likely he will be judged on
his side's showing in Rio..

Investigator Seeks To Ban, Fine Official

A FIFA ethics investigator has
recommended that a senior Qatari
official should be banned from the
game for at least two-and-a-half
years and fined 20,000 Swiss francs
(15,662.87 pounds) over allegations he
failed to cooperate with an inquiry.
The recommendation, announced
by the global football body's ethics
watchdog, did not give details on the
inquiry. And the official it named
Saoud Al-Mohannadi, vice-president of
the Qatar Football Association (QFA)
was not immediately available for
comment.
The FIFA watchdog only said the
inquiry was not linked to the awarding
of the 2022 FIFA World Cup to Qatar
one of the cases at the centre of wider
investigations and allegations that have
rocked the football organisation since
last year.
"The investigation against Al-Mohannadi

concerned his failure to properly cooperate

and provide truthful information to the
investigatory chamber," the FIFA panel
said in a statement.
Spokespeople for the QFA and for
Qatar's 2022 World Cup Organising
Committee both declined to comment.
The punishments against Mohannadi,
who is also QFA's former general
secretary, were recommended by one
of the FIFA ethics panel's investigators,
Djimbaraye Bourngar, the statement
added.
Bourngar's report now goes to the
FIFA Ethics Committee's adjudicatory
chamber.
Switzerland has opened a criminal
investigation into the decision to award
the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to
Russia and Qatar respectively.
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter
was banned from all soccer-related
activity in December along with the

then European football boss, Michel

Platini.
The bans were imposed for ethics
violations related to a payment of two
million Swiss francs that FIFA made to
Platini with Blatter's approval in 2011

for work done a decade earlier.

Several dozen football officials,
including former FIFA executive
committee members, and entities were
also indicted in the United States on
corruption-related charges last year.

Fiji Selects Best

FIJI will select a strong squad for the
2016 FANCA Muslim World Cup in
October.
The first trials were held at the Nadi
Muslim College and Nasinu Muslim
College earlier this month.
Team manager Mohin Rafiq said they
were looking at selecting a strong team
to win the title back.
"Key players who are expected to be
part of the Fiji team are district reps

Zibraaz Sahib from Lautoka, William

Valentine and Safim Buksh from Nadi
and Zameel Hussien and Raees Rafiq
from Rewa," Rafiq said.
"We last won the FANCA World Cup
title in 2012 defeating Canada, but lost
to New Zealand at Ratu Cakobau Park
in Nausori in 2014."
The World Cup will be played at Prince
Charles Park in Nadi from October 1216.