The Ministry of Education has confirmed that the Technical and Vocational Education and Training budget allocation for Pacific Polytech was determined using a Higher Education Commission formula.<\/p>\n
This explanation comes after the institution\u2019s funding was reduced from $7 million to just $500,000, raising concerns about its ability to maintain operations and accept new students.<\/p>\n
Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Opposition MP Vijay Nath questioned the decision, noting Pacific Polytech had set a record by graduating more than one thousand TVET students last year.<\/p>\n
\u201cI’ve seen that the Pacific Polytech grant has been decreased. Could I know why it has been decreased?”<\/em><\/p>\n Institute Chair Dr. Ganesh Chand warns that the cut will force them to limit student intake, stressing Fiji\u2019s urgent need for 8,000 trades and technical graduates annually.<\/p>\n \u201cWe estimate that each year Fiji needs to train 8000 trades and technical qualifications just to keep up with the economy; we have been producing collectively in Fiji throughout the education system no more than 3000. Now that’s not even half of what we need as a country; that’s why we have to import people from outside and it’s very expensive.”<\/em><\/p>\n However, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro defended the allocation, saying it was based on information submitted by the institution through the Higher Education Commission.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd the grant formula is based on the information that is provided by its individual institutions based on the enrolment number, based on the graduate number and the employable students after graduation number.”<\/em><\/p>\n Polytech further warns that the reduction will undermine national efforts to expand Fiji\u2019s technical and vocational workforce, which is critical to supporting the economy.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 12:40:06","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Education has confirmed that the Technical and Vocational Education and Training budget allocation for Pacific Polytech was determined using a Higher Education Commission formula.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788577,"headline":"Former DPM\u2019s trial to start next month","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/former-dpms\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Yvonne Ravula","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"yvonne.ravula@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/yr-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:46 am","unix_time":1784285160,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:46:57+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/BIMAN-.png","content":" The case involving former Deputy Prime Minister and National Federation Party leader Biman Prasad will proceed to trial from August 10 after both the prosecution and defence confirmed they were ready to proceed.<\/p>\n The matter was called in the Suva Magistrates Court today, where the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption counsel informed the court that it had filed all required disclosures and provided the defence with all material relevant to the proceedings.<\/p>\n Defence counsel raised no issues with the disclosures and informed the court that they were satisfied with the material served by the prosecution.<\/p>\n The court also directed that final pre-trial conference documents be filed by August 3.<\/p>\n In this matter, Prasad faces one count of providing false information to a public servant, contrary to the Crimes Act.<\/p>\n FICAC alleges that while submitting his declaration of income, assets and liabilities under the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act, Prasad failed to accurately declare his financial interests.<\/p>\n The matter has been adjourned to 10 August.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:53:02","section":"Court","section_id":50,"excerpt":" The case involving former Deputy Prime Minister and National Federation Party leader Biman Prasad will proceed to trial from August 10 after both the prosecution and defence confirmed they were ready to proceed.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788588,"headline":"Mutiny trial set for April next year","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/mutiny-trial\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:45 am","unix_time":1784285100,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:45:08+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/FRANK-.png","content":" The trial dates for former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho have been set for April next year.<\/p>\n The two appeared before Justice Daniel Goundar this morning.<\/p>\n Both Bainimarama and Qiliho face two counts of allegedly inciting mutiny.<\/p>\n The state told the court that there were no admissions in the caution interviews and they will not be relying on them.<\/p>\n The state will also be presenting direct evidence and phone records.<\/p>\n They will also be calling expert witnesses.<\/p>\n Defense lawyer, Devanesh Sharma told the court that after going through the disclosures, the trial might take about three weeks.<\/p>\n Sharma also told the court that the two accused persons will testify and will possibly call three other witnesses.<\/p>\n The trial dates have been set from the 5th to the 30th of April 2027..<\/p>\n The matter will be called again on the 24th of November for pre-trial conference.<\/p>\n In this matter, for the first count, it is alleged that between 1 January and 31 July 2023, Bainimarama sent viber messages to Brigadier General Manoa Gadai in an attempt to incite him to take over command and overthrow the authority of the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Jone Kalouniwai.<\/p>\n For the second count, it is alleged that between 1 July and 31 July 2023, the former Prime Minister and former COMPOL jointly spoke to several senior RFMF officers in an effort to incite them to unlawfully arrest and take over the authority of the RFMF Commander.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:54:32","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The trial dates for former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho have been set for April next year.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788591,"headline":"Man found motionless in Nausori","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/man-found-motionless-in-nausori\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Praneeta Prakash","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"praneeta.prakash@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"PraneetaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Praneeta-Prakash-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:44 am","unix_time":1784285040,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:44:02+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/body-find.jpg","content":" Nausori Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who was found motionless in Nausori town this morning.<\/p>\n Police are conducting enquiries to identify the victim.<\/p>\n Police are also calling on members of the public to contact them on 1681 if they have any information.<\/p>\n More details will be released in due course.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:57:10","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Nausori Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who was found motionless in Nausori town this morning.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788595,"headline":"Rabuka backs Vatulele landowner\u2019s plea","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/rabuka-backs\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Kelera Ditaiki","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/lela-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:40 am","unix_time":1784284800,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:40:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/RB.png","content":" Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured the people of Vatulele that the government will assist in addressing their longstanding land dispute.<\/p>\n The assurance was given after representatives from Vatulele met with the Prime Minister yesterday to submit a proposal regarding the lack of development on land leased to Jay Singh\u2019s Vatulele Hotels Pte Ltd.<\/p>\n Village representative Joeli Tukana says the land was leased to the hotel owner in 2018 for a five-year term, but no development had taken place during that period.<\/p>\n Tukana claims the issue escalated after the community approached the iTaukei Land Trust Board seeking the return of the land.<\/p>\n However, they allege the lease was extended for another five years without consultation with the landowners.<\/p>\n The people of Vatulele are now calling for the land to be returned to its traditional owners.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 11:18:14","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured the people of Vatulele that the government will assist in addressing their longstanding land dispute.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788571,"headline":"Spending explained but no wealth creation in Budget: Koya","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/spending-explained-but-no-wealth-creation-in-budget-koya\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Ritika Pratap","title":"Manager News ","email":"rpratap@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"RitikaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/RPratap-200x200.png"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:00 am","unix_time":1784282400,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:00:07+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/faiyaz-koya-1280x720-1.jpg","content":" Opposition parliamentarian Faiyaz Koya says the 2026-2027 Budget explains how Government intends to spend money, but it does not adequately explain how Fiji intends to create wealth.<\/p>\n During debate on the Budget in the House, he said the International Monetary Fund has identified labour shortages and outward migration as a significant constraint on<\/p>\n Fiji’s future economic growth and productivity.<\/p>\n Koya says this should concern every single member of Parliament because when skilled people leave, businesses struggle to find qualified workers, productivity declines and economic growth slows.<\/p>\n He says when revenues come under pressure, government is increasingly reliant on borrowing to finance essential services and development.<\/p>\n Koya says the challenge for Fiji is much greater than simply retaining people.<\/p>\n He says it is about building an economy that gives people a compelling reason to remain, offers quality jobs and rewards hard work with high wages.<\/p>\n Koya says it also creates opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and professional growth and gives young people the confidence that their future can be built in Fiji.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 09:04:34","section":"Budget 2026-2027","section_id":674,"excerpt":" Opposition parliamentarian Faiyaz Koya says the 2026-2027 Budget explains how Government intends to spend money, but it does not adequately explain how Fiji intends to create wealth.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788573,"headline":"Tunabuna says $1b export target by 2030 achievable","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/tunabuna-says-1b-export-target-by-2030-achievable\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Ritika Pratap","title":"Manager News ","email":"rpratap@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"RitikaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/RPratap-200x200.png"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 9:55 am","unix_time":1784282100,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T09:55:36+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Tomasi-Tunabuna-parliament.jpg","content":" Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna says his ministry has set a bold, visionary and achievable target to achieve $1 billion in fresh and frozen non-agriculture exports by 2030.<\/p>\n Speaking in Parliament during the Committee of Supply discussions on the 2026-2027 Budget, he says they are not merely spending money but are planting seeds that will yield massive harvests for the Fijian economy.<\/p>\n He says the State\u2019s $2 million support to the Yaqona Programme is now generating $79.1 million in export earnings.<\/p>\n Tunabuna says the $1m Dalo Programme support is generating $38.9 million in export<\/p>\n Earnings and the modest $300,000 Spices Programme (Turmeric) support is generating a staggering $32.1m in export earnings.<\/p>\n The Minister says the Ginger Programme, supported by $900,000, is generating $6.5m in export earnings.<\/p>\n Tunabuna says the figures demonstrate that agriculture is creating opportunities for rural communities, women, youth, and the next generation of \u2018agri-preneurs\u2019.<\/p>\n He says the agriculture sector has reached approximately $1.5 billion in real GDP value, contributing 12.8 percent to Fiji’s real GDP in 2024.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 09:43:06","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna says his ministry has set a bold, visionary and achievable target to achieve $1 billion in fresh and frozen non-agriculture exports by 2030.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788575,"headline":"Fiji joins global Israel Allies parliamentary network","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fiji-joins-global-israel-allies-parliamentary-network\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 9:54 am","unix_time":1784282040,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T09:54:18+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/fiji-israel-qatar.png","content":" Fiji has become the 65th country to establish an Israel Allies parliamentary caucus, joining a global network of lawmakers aimed at strengthening political and diplomatic ties with Israel.<\/p>\n The announcement was made by Israel Allies Foundation President Josh Reinstein, who said Fiji’s newly launched Fiji-Israel Allies Caucus marks another milestone in the country’s growing relationship with Israel.<\/p>\n Speaking alongside Deputy Prime Minister and caucus chair Viliame Gavoka, Reinstein says the Israel Allies Foundation coordinates the activities of pro-Israel caucuses in parliaments and legislatures around the world.<\/p>\n “This is the 65th caucus to be launched. We’re active on six continents. We have 65 caucuses in 65 countries with over 1,600 legislators”<\/p>\n He says the foundation promotes what it describes as “faith-based diplomacy”, encouraging legislators to translate their biblical support for Israel into political engagement.<\/p>\n Reinstein praised Fiji for what he described as its strong support for Israel, particularly following the country’s decision to establish an embassy in Jerusalem.<\/p>\n According to Reinstein, Fiji’s entry into the international network strengthens links between the country’s parliamentarians and legislators from dozens of other nations.<\/p>\n He said the parliamentary caucus would provide a platform for cooperation between lawmakers while reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties between Fiji and Israel.<\/p>\n Reinstein also thanked Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka for supporting the establishment of the caucus, describing Fiji’s actions as demonstrating “courage” and “moral clarity.”<\/p>\n The Fiji-Israel Allies Caucus was officially launched this week, with Gavoka serving as its inaugural chair.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 09:46:14","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Fiji has become the 65th country to establish an Israel Allies parliamentary caucus, joining a global network of lawmakers aimed at strengthening political and diplomatic ties with Israel.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788561,"headline":"Nanuku included in government's relocation program","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/nanuku-included-in-governments-relocation-program\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 8:00 am","unix_time":1784275200,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T08:00:19+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/squatters.jpg","content":" The government has confirmed that residents of the Nanuku informal settlement in Vatuwaqa,Suva will be included in its relocation program after concerns were raised in Parliament over eviction notices issued to families living on private land.<\/p>\n During the committee stage of the 2026\u20132027 National Budget debate, Independent MP Parveen Bala asked Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa how the Government intended to fund the relocation of Nanuku residents after they were reportedly given 30 days to vacate the land.<\/p>\n Bala noted that the settlement was not specifically identified in the budget allocation for informal settlement relocations and questioned whether additional funding would be required.<\/p>\n In response, Nalumisa said the Nanuku settlement at Vatuwaqa is located on land owned by the Bindi Brothers and that the Government has been in discussions with the landowners over the relocation process.<\/p>\n “We have been having consultations with Bhindi Brothers. They have also allowed the Ministry of Housing time to relocate them”<\/em><\/p>\n Nalumisa thanked the landowners for their cooperation, saying they had agreed to give the Government time to relocate affected residents.<\/p>\n The Minister said the relocation of Nanuku residents would form part of the government’s broader informal settlement relocation programme.<\/p>\n He added that the Ministry was also exploring other options to address informal settlements, including discussions with the iTaukei Affairs Board to assist families willing to return to their home villages.<\/p>\n “We are also having discussions with the iTaukei Affairs Board where those willing to be moved back to the villages, there are a few that have already given us the intention to be resettled”<\/em><\/p>\n The government has allocated more than $1.3 million in the 2026\u20132027 National Budget for the relocation and resettlement of informal settlements across the country.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 07:18:14","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The government has confirmed that residents of the Nanuku informal settlement in Vatuwaqa,Suva will be included in its relocation program after concerns were raised in Parliament over eviction notices issued to families living on private land.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788563,"headline":"Government to resettle three informal settlements","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/government-to-resettle-three-informal-settlements\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 7:57 am","unix_time":1784275020,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T07:57:21+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/maciu-nalumisa66.jpg","content":" The Government plans to begin the relocation of residents from three informal settlements during the next financial year, with land already secured to accommodate hundreds of families.<\/p>\n This, according tp Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa.<\/p>\n During debate on the 2026-2027 Appropriation Bill Independent MP Faiyaz Koya asked whether the $1.3 million allocated for the relocation and resettlement of informal settlements would be sufficient to relocate residents from Veidogo, Nabua Muslim and Kilikali this year.<\/p>\n Nalumisa said the government’s plan is to resettle the three communities during the next financial year.<\/p>\n “So far, we have acquired one land at Lokia”<\/em><\/p>\n The Minister said the 30-acre site at Lokia was expected to accommodate between 400 and 500 families.<\/p>\n “Because there won’t be much civil work to be done on that particular land, we’ll be able to relocate a few there”.<\/em><\/p>\n Nalumisa said the government would also working to secure another parcel of land in the Tacirua area to support the resettlement programme.<\/p>\n He adds that the Housing Authority is also assisting the initiative by allocating 10 per cent of lots in its new housing developments for families living in informal settlements.<\/p>\n “There is a quota that we have with the Housing Authority to allow those in informal settlements access to 10 per cent of all new developments.”<\/em><\/p>\n The Minister states some families will also be relocated to the Housing Authority’s Makosoi Subdivision in Deuba as part of the government’s broader resettlement program.<\/p>\n The government has allocated just over $1.3 million in the 2026\u20132027 Budget for the relocation and resettlement of informal settlements.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 07:21:50","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Government plans to begin the relocation of residents from three informal settlements during the next financial year, with land already secured to accommodate hundreds of families.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788565,"headline":"CCTV Push under scrutiny","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/cctv-push-under-scrutiny\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 7:55 am","unix_time":1784274900,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T07:55:58+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/cctv.png","content":" Parliament has questioned the expansion of CCTV network after another $400,000 was allocated for surveillance cameras.<\/p>\n The debate has raised concerns over the absence of a national policy to guide how cameras are installed, monitored and how privacy is protected.<\/p>\n The issue was raised in Parliament after Opposition MP Premila Kumar questioned the government\u2019s approach to CCTV installation during debate on the 2026-2027 Appropriation Bill.<\/p>\n Kumar said different agencies, municipal councils, communities and private households were installing cameras, but there was no single policy guiding the use, monitoring and management of CCTV footage.<\/p>\n \u201cBut the rest of the world are also moving in the same direction to keep our cities and towns safe but they do have a national policy on CCTV camera so that the privacy matter is addressed and anyone who installs CCTV camera, it is monitored by a central agency.Not like everyone monitoring their own CCTV cameras.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n In response, Police Minister Ioane Naivalurua said police have a plan for CCTV expansion, with installations completed in the Suva-Nausori corridor and the next phase planned for the Western Division.<\/p>\n \u201cWithin the community, we work with the community. If there are initiatives by the community to install their own monitoring devices, we work with them to be able to connect to our central monitoring devices. But there is a well-coordinated plan for those, Honorable Member.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n However, when questioned on whether Fiji has a national policy covering privacy issues, Naivalurua said he had yet to see one, adding that this was something that needed to be worked on.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Kumar also raised concerns over delays in DNA testing for major fire investigations, where some samples are sent overseas.<\/p>\n She questioned whether Fiji could strengthen its local capability to avoid long waiting periods.<\/p>\n Naivalurua said Fiji already carries out DNA testing locally but relies on New Zealand and Australia for more complex cases.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 07:24:44","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Parliament has questioned the expansion of CCTV network after another $400,000 was allocated for surveillance cameras.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788567,"headline":"Grant reduction due to compliance issue: Radrodro","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/grant-reduction-due-to-compliance-issue-radrodro\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Praneeta Prakash","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"praneeta.prakash@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"PraneetaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Praneeta-Prakash-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 7:54 am","unix_time":1784274840,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T07:54:52+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/radrodro55.jpg","content":" The Ministry of Education says the reduction in funding allocated for free education grants to non-government primary schools is mainly due to compliance issues faced by some.<\/p>\n The matter was raised during the scrutiny of the Ministry of Education\u2019s budget allocation for the 2026\/27 financial year.<\/p>\n Opposition MP Hem Chand questioned the reduction in the grant allocation from $33.75 million to $30 million in the new budget.<\/p>\n Chand asked whether changes have been made to grant formula that resulted in the $3.75 million reduction.<\/p>\n Education Minister Aseri Radrodro says the allocation was determined based on the level of compliance with the Ministry\u2019s requirements.<\/p>\n \u201cDisbursement is based on the compliance from the respective schools. So if we do not have compliance, say 30% of the schools, they will not be disbursed, those free education grants, until and unless they comply. Like providing financial statements, having the annual general meeting.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Radrodro says some schools in previous years had failed to meet these requirements.<\/p>\n \u201cAll the students in school are not deprived of free education grants. They are entitled to free education grants, but every school has to meet the criteria that have been set. So our previous experience, most schools did not comply, most schools did not submit their information on time.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The Minister says the government cannot simply release the full allocation requested by schools without ensuring proper accountability for public funds.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 07:41:59","section":"Budget 2026-2027","section_id":674,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Education says the reduction in funding allocated for free education grants to non-government primary schools is mainly due to compliance issues faced by some.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"sports":[{"id":788667,"headline":"Tove thankful with selection","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/tove-thankful-with-selection\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Akuila Cama","title":"Deputy News Manager","email":"akuila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"AkuilaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Akuila-Cama-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:16 pm","unix_time":1784308560,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:16:36+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/REPEKA-TOVE.png","content":" McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women winger, Repeka Tove, was over the moon after being informed yesterday she would make the matchday 23 for the Super Rugby W semifinal against Queensland Reds in Lautoka tomorrow.<\/p>\n The 27 year old was not in the initial 23 that was released on Wednesday.<\/p>\n However, she now has a chance to play after replacing the injured Ivamere Nabura on the bench.<\/p>\n Tove made the matchday squad when the Drua Women hosted its first Super W semifinal in 2024 but she didn’t get any game time.<\/p>\n She says her family didn’t know she’s going to play tomorrow and they’ll probably find out through the media.<\/p>\n The Drua hosts Reds at 1pm tomorrow at Churchill Park.<\/p>\n You can watch the match live on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:16:36","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women winger, Repeka Tove, was over the moon after being informed yesterday she would make the matchday 23 for the Super Rugby W semifinal against Queensland Reds in Lautoka tomorrow.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788665,"headline":"Round Three fixtures set as teams chase top spots","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/round-three-fixtures-set-as-teams-chase-top-spots\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:11 pm","unix_time":1784308260,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:11:47+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Vanua-cup.png","content":" Round Three of the Vodafone Vanua Championship and Royal Tea Ranadi Cup will be staged around the country tomorrow, with several teams looking to strengthen their positions on their respective points tables.<\/p>\n In the Vodafone Vanua Championship, Pool A leaders Cakaudrove will travel to face Macuata at Ratu Ganilau Park. Cakaudrove tops the standings with four points after its opening-round victory, while Macuata will be chasing its first win.<\/p>\n Pool B pace-setters Tavua and Vatukoula, both on five points, will square off at Theodore Park in a clash that could prove decisive in the race for top spot.<\/p>\n In Pool C, unbeaten Northland takes on winless Coastland at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, while Ra meets the Northern Bulls in another crucial encounter at Narauyaba Sports Ground. Northland currently leads the pool with eight points.<\/p>\n Pool D leaders Namosi will face Ovalau at Nasau Park in the marquee matchup of the round, with the sides occupying first and second place respectively. Serua will host Nasinu at Thompson Park.<\/p>\n All under-20 Vanua Championship matches kick off at 1pm, followed by the senior fixtures at 3pm.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, the Royal Tea Ranadi Cup will also feature six matches tomorrow.<\/p>\n Taveuni hosts Cakaudrove at Wairiki Grounds, Vatukoula welcomes Tavua to Theodore Park, Ra takes on the Northern Bulls at Narauyaba Sports Ground, Northland meets Coastland in Nausori, Serua battles Navosa at Thompson Park and Ovalau faces Malolo at Nasau Park.<\/p>\n All Ranadi Cup matches are scheduled to begin at 11am.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:11:47","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Round Three of the Vodafone Vanua Championship and Royal Tea Ranadi Cup will be staged around the country tomorrow, with several teams looking to strengthen their positions on their respective points tables.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788659,"headline":"International players add spark to Pearls trials","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/netball\/international-players-add-spark-to-pearls-trials\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:10 pm","unix_time":1784308200,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:10:31+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/FIJI-PEARLS.png","content":" The return of overseas-based players has added a new dimension to the Crest Fiji Pearls’ preparations as the national side continues its mini trials ahead of upcoming qualifiers.<\/p>\n Head coach Michelle Parsons says the inclusion of international players has brought fresh energy and intensity to the squad, with encouraging signs already emerging on day one of the trials.<\/p>\n Parsons believes one of the biggest improvements has been the players’ ability to maintain skill execution and make sound decisions under pressure.<\/p>\n “The development from last week was that consistency of skill and that ability to keep going even when the game gets tough and to be able to make good decisions under pressure.”<\/em><\/p>\n The Fiji Pearls coach says the presence of international players has also challenged combinations within the squad and exposed local players to different styles of play.<\/p>\n “The international players have certainly brought a different flavour, which is really good because it’s that ability to change your timing, that ability to change who you’re working with and that ability to change the combinations.”<\/em><\/p>\n Parsons is also encouraged by the strong turnout from overseas-based players, describing it as a positive sign for the future of the national team.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:10:31","section":"Netball","section_id":60,"excerpt":" The return of overseas-based players has added a new dimension to the Crest Fiji Pearls’ preparations as the national side continues its mini trials ahead of upcoming qualifiers.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788657,"headline":"Lautoka targets response against Nasinu","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/football\/lautoka-targets-response-against-nasinu\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:03 pm","unix_time":1784307780,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:03:32+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/suva-lautoka-fc.png","content":" Lautoka FC will be aiming to bounce back from last week’s defeat when it hosts Nasinu FC in Round 14 of the Extra Premier League at Churchill Park on Sunday.<\/p>\n The Blues suffered a 2-1 loss to Navua in their previous outing and will be eager to return to winning ways as the race for the league title intensifies.<\/p>\n Currently sitting fourth on the standings, Lautoka knows a positive result at home will be crucial in maintaining pressure on the teams above them.<\/p>\n Nasinu also enters the fixture looking to respond after a 5-2 defeat to Rewa. Despite that setback, the Giant Killers have been one of the competition’s surprise packages this season and remain firmly in contention for a top-four finish.<\/p>\n With both sides seeking to rebound from losses, fans can expect a closely contested encounter at Churchill Park.<\/p>\n The match kicks off at 1pm on Sunday. Tickets are priced at $7 for adults and $2 for children aged between five and 10, while children under five will be admitted free.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:03:32","section":"Football","section_id":58,"excerpt":" Lautoka FC will be aiming to bounce back from last week’s defeat when it hosts Nasinu FC in Round 14 of the Extra Premier League at Churchill Park on Sunday.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788638,"headline":"Homecoming special for Kalounivale","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/homecoming-special-for-kalounivale\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:03 pm","unix_time":1784293380,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:03:03+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TANYA-kALOUNIVALE.png","content":" Returning to Fiji to play rugby is a moment Queensland Reds prop Tanya Kalounivale has long dreamed about.<\/p>\n The Fiji-born Black Fern says Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s semi-final against the McDonald’s Fiji Drua will be her first opportunity to play in front of a home crowd.<\/p>\n Kalounivale, who arrived in the country with the Reds this week, admits the occasion carries special meaning.<\/p>\n “I’m lost for words. Excited, first and foremost, and just grateful to be able to play in Fiji because I’ve never played here.”<\/em><\/p>\n The powerful front-rower says she is cherishing the opportunity to run out in front of local rugby fans.<\/p>\n “To be able to get the opportunity to come and play here in Fiji is an excitement.”<\/em><\/p>\n Kalounivale and the Queensland Reds will take on the Drua at Churchill Park on Saturday with a place in the Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final at stake.<\/p>\n The match kicks off at 1pm and you can watch it LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 14:17:16","section":"Sports","section_id":2,"excerpt":" Returning to Fiji to play rugby is a moment Queensland Reds prop Tanya Kalounivale has long dreamed about.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788644,"headline":"Southern Zone playoffs set for Nausori","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/southern-zone-playoffs-set-for-nausori\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:02 pm","unix_time":1784293320,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:02:16+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/fIJI-SOCCER.png","content":" Teams from across the Southern Zone will converge at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori next week for the Secondary Schools Football Championship playoffs, with spots at the national finals up for grabs.<\/p>\n The two-day competition will serve as a pathway to the Fiji Secondary Schools Football Championship, which will be held in Labasa from August 19 to 22.<\/p>\n Vunimono High School will be one of the schools to watch, competing in the Under-15, Under-17 and Open Girls divisions as it aims to secure qualification in all three grades.<\/p>\n Schools from Rewa, Suva, Nasinu, Navua and Tailevu will contest the playoffs, while qualification matches in the Under-19 grade will also be played.<\/p>\n Action begins on July 23 with six playoff matches scheduled, before the remaining playoff fixtures, Under-19 qualifiers and the Suva Secondary Schools Under-19 final take place on July 24.<\/p>\n Matches will kick off from 9am on both days, with entry set at $2 for students in school uniform and $3 for other spectators.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 14:28:15","section":"Sports","section_id":2,"excerpt":" Teams from across the Southern Zone will converge at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori next week for the Secondary Schools Football Championship playoffs, with spots at the national finals up for grabs.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788598,"headline":"Tove called into Drua semi-final squad","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/tove-called-into-drua-semi-final-squad\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 11:18 am","unix_time":1784287080,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T11:18:28+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/repeka-adi-tove-drua.jpg","content":" The McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women have been forced into a late change ahead of Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s semi-final against the Queensland Reds at Churchill Park.<\/p>\n Repeka Tove has been drafted into the match-day 23 after utility back Ana Nabura was ruled out through injury.<\/p>\n Tove takes her place on the bench in jersey number 22 and is expected to provide cover in the outside backs as the Drua chase a place in the Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final.<\/p>\n The change is the only alteration to the squad named earlier this week by head coach Mike Legge.<\/p>\n The Minor Premiers will host the Reds in Lautoka on Saturday, with the winner advancing to the championship decider.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 11:18:28","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" The McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women have been forced into a late change ahead of Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s semi-final against the Queensland Reds at Churchill Park.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788581,"headline":"Reds wary of improved Drua ahead of semi-final","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/reds-wary-of-improved-drua-ahead-of-semi-final\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 8:00 am","unix_time":1784275200,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T08:00:21+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/reds-women-win.jpg","content":" The Queensland Reds Women are expecting a much tougher challenge when they face the McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women in Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s semi-final at Churchill Park.<\/p>\n Speaking upon the team’s arrival in Fiji, head coach Andrew Fraser acknowledged the threat posed by several key Drua players and said lessons have been learned from their previous meeting this season.<\/p>\n “The Drua is a very strong team with Josivini and Carletta, very strong for them that weekend. We’ve learnt a lot of lessons and hopefully we’re better in our defence, but we’ve learnt a lot of lessons and we come here this weekend knowing there’s a bigger challenge.”<\/em><\/p>\n The Reds are the last team to beat the Drua in Lautoka, but Fraser believes past results will count for little heading into the knockout clash.<\/p>\n “What we did 12 months ago was very special, but this is a new season and the Drua are very strong this year. They’ve got a lot of world-class players in their team, so we need to be better than last year.”<\/p>\n Fraser also paid tribute to the Drua’s impressive regular season, which saw them finish as minor premiers.<\/p>\n “Credit to Mike Legge and his staff and the players, they deserve their minor premiership. But this is a new game on Saturday and obviously with the crowd behind them, they deserve to be the favourites and we look forward to trying to take them on.”<\/em><\/p>\n The match kicks off at 1pm, and it will air LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:17:58","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" The Queensland Reds Women are expecting a much tougher challenge when they face the McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women in Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s semi-final at Churchill Park.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788578,"headline":"Scotland set for Fiji","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/scotland-set-for-fiji\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Akuila Cama","title":"Deputy News Manager","email":"akuila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"AkuilaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Akuila-Cama-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 7:30 am","unix_time":1784273400,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T07:30:36+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/scotland.png","content":" Scotland may be missing some key players for Sunday\u2019s Nations Championship clash against the FIJI Water Flying Fijians but they have a plan on how to slow the game.<\/p>\n Scotland forwards coach John Dalziel believes they will look very different against Fiji, but it should still look like an impressive team.<\/p>\n Dalziel is respectful of Fiji, and thinks they’ve all seen the Fijians over the last couple of years as a team that got very far in the last World Cup and that have beaten them as well.<\/p>\n He says Fiji them in Suva last year, by a decent margin as well when they had a few players away with the British and Irish Lions, however, they know the Flying Fijians quality.<\/p>\n Dalziel goes on to say they Fiji will be disappointed that their game didn’t click last week against England, and they haven’t seen many performances like that from them, and that\u2019s why they’re fully ready for a backlash.<\/p>\n Last weekend Scotland played well against defending world champions, South Africa, before going 42-28.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:16:01","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Scotland may be missing some key players for Sunday\u2019s Nations Championship clash against the FIJI Water Flying Fijians but they have a plan on how to slow the game.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788583,"headline":"Flying Fijians confirm squad to face Scotland","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/flying-fijians-confirm-squad-to-face-scotland\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 2:00 am","unix_time":1784253600,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T02:00:05+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/flying-fijians-4.png","content":" The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have unveiled their 23\u2011member squad to take on Scotland, with head coach Senirusi Seruvakula naming a powerful lineup that blends experience, athleticism, and flair.<\/p>\n Leading the side is Tevita Ikanivere, who captains from hooker, supported by props Eroni Mawi and Mesake Doge in a formidable front row. The second row features Isoa Nasilasila and Temo Mayanavanua, while the back row combines strength and mobility through Pita Gus Sowakula, Lekima Tagitagivalu, and Elia Canakaivata.<\/p>\n In the halves, Frank Lomani and Caleb Muntz will direct play, backed by a dynamic backline of Jiuta Wainiqolo, Josua Tuisova, debutant Virimi Vakatawa, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Isaiah Armstrong Ravula at fullback.<\/p>\n The bench offers depth and impact, with Samuel Matavesi, Livai Natave, Peni Ravai, Mesake Vocevoce, Kitione Salawa, Sam Wye, expected debutant Isikeli Rabitu, and Salesi Rayasi ready to step in.<\/p>\n Kick\u2011off is set at 1.10am on Sunday morning, and you can watch it LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 10:19:22","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have unveiled their 23\u2011member squad to take on Scotland, with head coach Senirusi Seruvakula naming a powerful lineup that blends experience, athleticism, and flair.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788487,"headline":"Results burden falls on Seruvakula","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/results-burden-falls-on-seruvakula\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 5:04 pm","unix_time":1784221440,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T17:04:23+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/flying-fijians-2025.jpg","content":" Accountability for the Flying Fijians’ Nations Championship campaign is something head coach Senirusi Seruvakula fully accepts as Fiji prepares for its final Test against Scotland this weekend.<\/p>\n Leading the national side for the first time at this level, Seruvakula acknowledged the challenges of taking on established Tier One nations after a short preparation period and limited time together as a squad.<\/p>\n The coach noted that while players and support staff all have specific responsibilities within the team, the ultimate responsibility rests with the man at the helm.<\/p>\n “At the end of the day, the head coach will get hanged for the result. And that’s rugby. And I expect that.”<\/em><\/p>\n Seruvakula said Fiji entered a demanding competition against Six Nations opposition that had already spent considerable time together in camp and in competition.<\/p>\n “People have to understand that we came in, this was our second week together, and we are playing Tier One teams. They’ve been together and they’ve been having games before we arrived.”<\/em><\/p>\n Despite the challenges, Seruvakula insists the Flying Fijians must continue to improve and focus on delivering a strong performance against Scotland in their final outing.<\/p>\n Fiji will take on Scotland at 1.10am this Sunday, and you can watch it LIVE on FBC Sports via the Walesi set-top box.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-16 17:04:23","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Accountability for the Flying Fijians’ Nations Championship campaign is something head coach Senirusi Seruvakula fully accepts as Fiji prepares for its final Test against Scotland this weekend.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788485,"headline":"Lomani embraces leadership role","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/lomani-embraces-leadership-role\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mataiasi Stark","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"mataiasi.stark@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/stark-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 5:03 pm","unix_time":1784221380,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T17:03:09+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Kolora-Lomani.jpg","content":" Leading the McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women into a home Super Rugby Women’s semi-final is a moment captain Kolora Lomani holds close to her heart.<\/p>\n The playmaker admits captaining the side has come with its challenges but says the support of fellow leaders within the squad has helped her navigate the responsibility.<\/p>\n “I think it’s very special to me, having that captaincy as well. It’s been a very tough job leading this bunch of girls, but I’m grateful to have Bitila, Kara and Fisher on the side as well to support me.”<\/em><\/p>\n Lomani says she is humbled by the opportunity to guide the Drua Women into Saturday’s crucial clash against the Queensland Reds at Churchill Park.<\/p>\n “I’d like to give back the honour and the glory to the man above for being able to give me this talent to lead the girls on Saturday as well.”<\/em><\/p>\n The Drua Women will be chasing a place in the Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final when they host the Reds in Lautoka.<\/p>\n The match kicks off at 1pm, and it will air LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-16 17:04:49","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Leading the McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women into a home Super Rugby Women’s semi-final is a moment captain Kolora Lomani holds close to her heart.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"business":[{"id":788601,"headline":"Coffee Hub plans expansion","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/coffee-hub-plans-expansion\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:38 am","unix_time":1784284680,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:38:44+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/COFFEE.png","content":" Coffee Hub is looking to introduce new menu and strengthen its presence across Fiji, as it celebrates a successful year of operations at its TappooCity outlet.<\/p>\n The outlet, located at the TappooCity Food Court, opened in August last year to provide convenient caf\u00e9 dining in Suva\u2019s central business district.<\/p>\n Founder and Managing Director Shakil Zoro Bhamji says the first year has shown strong support from customers, including office workers, students, shoppers and families.<\/p>\n He expresses that the outlet\u2019s growth reflects the demand for quality coffee, food and welcoming spaces in the city.<\/p>\n Bhamji says what started as a vision to bring premium coffee and caf\u00e9 dining closer to Suva residents has developed into one of TappooCity\u2019s popular coffee destinations.<\/p>\n He says the focus remains on meeting the needs of customers with busy lifestyles while maintaining quality and service.<\/p>\n The Suva Express outlet is one of six Coffee Hub locations operating across Fiji and is supported by a team of five employees.<\/p>\n Coffee Hub says it will continue exploring ways to improve its offerings and expand its footprint as it moves into its next phase of growth.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 11:24:15","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Coffee Hub is looking to introduce new menu and strengthen its presence across Fiji, as it celebrates a successful year of operations at its TappooCity outlet.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788593,"headline":"2026-2027 national budget passed","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/2026-2027-national-budget-passed\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:57 am","unix_time":1784267820,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T05:57:48+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/parliament-2024-1.jpg","content":" Parliament has passed the 2026\/27 national budget after a majority of the house voted in favor.<\/p>\n Thirty-five voted in favour of the Appropriation Bill.<\/p>\n Speaker Filimoni Jitoko acknowledged the passed budget noting that the weeklong contribution from members of Parliament is a cornerstone to their duties ensuring transparency, accountability and sound national planning.<\/p>\n “I extend my sincere appreciation to all the honorable members for your thoughtful engagement towards this important process, your contributions have been invaluable.”<\/p>\n The $4.23b budget is for the ordinary services of government for the year ending 31 July 2027.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 11:00:41","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Parliament has passed the 2026\/27 national budget after a majority of the house voted in favor.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788557,"headline":"Finance system costs questioned","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/finance-system-costs-questioned\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:55 am","unix_time":1784267700,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T05:55:34+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/budget2.jpg","content":" Millions spent on a new budget system are under scrutiny, with Opposition MPs questioning what has been delivered so far.<\/p>\n They also asked if more funding will be needed to complete the project.<\/p>\n During the debate on the 2026-2027 Appropriation Bill 2026, Opposition MP Premila Kumar raised concerns over the $500,000 allocated this year, after about $4.5 million was spent over the past two years.<\/p>\n Kumar asked what work was still outstanding and whether this would be the final funding required for the system.<\/p>\n Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel said the latest allocation will go towards maintenance, staff training, system upgrades and improving links with other government agencies.<\/p>\n He said the system would continue to require funding support as government reforms its financial management processes.<\/p>\n Questions were also raised over the $24.5 million allocation for the Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact Development Funding.<\/p>\n Opposition MP Jone Usamate questioned whether the funding would only be used to establish a project team.<\/p>\n Immanuel said the money would support the Compact Development Team and the assessment of major projects, including ports.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Kumar also questioned the annual $60,000 spending on Fiji flags, asking whether old flags could be reused to save money.<\/p>\n Immanuel states the flags are distributed as giveaways and cannot be reused indefinitely.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 05:41:27","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Millions spent on a new budget system are under scrutiny, with Opposition MPs questioning what has been delivered so far.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788454,"headline":"Businesses told to look within","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/businesses-told-to-look-within-01\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 12:42 pm","unix_time":1784205720,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T12:42:28+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Business-.png","content":" Fiji does not have a labour shortage; it has a worker retention problem.<\/p>\n Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board Member Dr Ahmed Shakeel Shariff pointed this out and said that businesses must look at why employees are leaving instead of blaming a lack of workers.<\/p>\n Dr Shariff argues that years of failing to adapt, innovate, and support employees have contributed to rising attrition rates.<\/p>\n He believes Fiji has been reactive rather than proactive in responding to workforce changes.<\/p>\n \u201cI think we have been very reactive to the market. We haven’t been proactive. We have not been innovative. We have not been supportive of our employees. What platforms have we provided to prevent attrition rates so far? We have lost medical personnel. They’re not easy to make. It takes six years to graduate a doctor, two years internship, and they fly away.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He points to many Fijians continuing to demonstrate their ability to work by taking up employment opportunities overseas.<\/p>\n This, he says, raises questions about why workers who leave Fiji can perform abroad while local industries continue facing shortages.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are saying that we are becoming a good exporter of labour, too, but we’re importing a lot larger numbers, and we’re saying that our people are not working, but they work abroad. Something is not right locally, and we need to redefine that.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Dr Shariff says more needs to be done to understand why people leave local employment opportunities, despite the country\u2019s need for workers.<\/p>\n The 2023-2024 Employment and Unemployment Survey recorded an unemployment rate of 5.7 percent, with 18,073 people classified as unemployed.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-16 13:37:09","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Fiji does not have a labour shortage; it has a worker retention problem.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788387,"headline":"Food processors eye new export markets","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/food-processors-eye-new-export-markets\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Praneeta Prakash","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"praneeta.prakash@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"PraneetaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Praneeta-Prakash-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 7:30 am","unix_time":1784187000,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T07:30:07+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Food-Processors-Ltd.png","content":" Food Processors Limited is expanding its search for new export markets while working to improve access to finance for local farmers as part of its efforts to strengthen Fiji’s agricultural sector.<\/p>\n Chair Raj Sharma says the company’s priority is to provide farmers with better market opportunities and fair returns for their produce.<\/p>\n Sharma says the company, which exports about 60 percent of its products and records annual sales of around $6 million, is diversifying beyond processed foods by targeting exports of fresh and frozen produce.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are not only processing these foods, but we are diversifying them. For example, if we are processing green produce, we peel it and send it through frozen goods. But now, we want to sell green produce like eggplant, okra, and beans, and even bananas and pineapples. For now, we are looking at the Australian and New Zealand markets for green produce.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The company is also exploring new regional markets, including Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Nauru and Kiribati, following discussions with the Pacific Islands Development Forum.<\/p>\n Sharma says Food Processors Limited is considering a Memorandum of Understanding with the Fiji Development Bank to help its contract farmers gain easier access to loans, enabling them to increase production and meet growing export demand.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-16 09:41:10","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Food Processors Limited is expanding its search for new export markets while working to improve access to finance for local farmers as part of its efforts to strengthen Fiji’s agricultural sector.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788381,"headline":"SPBD support helps women grow businesses and incomes","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/spbd-support-helps-women-grow-businesses-and-income\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Yvonne Ravula","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"yvonne.ravula@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/yr-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 6:13 am","unix_time":1784182380,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T06:13:49+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/SPBD.png","content":" Women entrepreneurs are turning small businesses into sustainable sources of income, with many crediting the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) for helping them expand and support their families.<\/p>\n From catering and baking to fruit juice sales and poultry farming, women say that access to small-business loans has created opportunities to grow their businesses and improve household incomes.<\/p>\n For 64-year-old Fulori Tagavira, SPBD support helped transform her catering business and gave her the confidence to pursue her goals.<\/p>\n \u201cBefore I discovered SPBD, I was in a dark place in life, but when I came to know about SPBD, I was able to start my business. They helped us a lot.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Tagavira says her business now earns her more than $200 a day, allowing her to fund her children\u2019s tertiary education.<\/p>\n \u201cI was able to pay for my children’s tertiary education myself. I am 64 years old now, but I am still going strong.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Meanwhile, Laisa Katarina has expanded her fruit juice business by investing in new ventures, including frozen produce sales and poultry farming.<\/p>\n She says SPBD has given her the confidence and support to explore new opportunities.<\/p>\n \u201cSPBD made it easier, especially for us as women, to expand our businesses.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n SPBD says supporting women entrepreneurs remains key to building stronger communities, with small businesses providing families with more stable incomes and greater financial independence.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-16 06:19:49","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Women entrepreneurs are turning small businesses into sustainable sources of income, with many crediting the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) for helping them expand and support their families.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788371,"headline":"Grace Road opens 4th True Fitness gym","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/grace-road-opens-4th-true-fitness-gym\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"News Journalist","email":"fbcnews@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 2:55 pm","unix_time":1784127300,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T14:55:34+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Laqere-Gym.png","content":" The Grace Road Group has opened another True Fitness gym in Laqere, Nasinu, making it the 4th gym facility established by the company in the country.<\/p>\n The facility, worth over $2 million, offers premium gym equipment such as free weights and cardio machines suited for beginner, medium and professional levels.<\/p>\n President of the Grace Road group Daniel Kim says the opening of the facility in Nasinu was necessary as it is the most populated municipality in the country.<\/p>\n \u201cNasinu, first of all, it’s a population there. I don’t know the number, but probably the most, heaviest, you know, the density of the population in the whole of the country.So you need the gym.\u201d<\/p>\n Kim says it also reflects their commitment to helping communities in the fight against non-communicable diseases.<\/p>\n \u201cAs you know, Fiji is facing the biggest challenge, the problem, is health issue, especially the NCD. The rate is continuing to going up. Without tackling down the root cause, you can’t solve this issue.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Nasinu Town Council Chief Executive Felix Magnus says the gym\u2019s launch is part of the National Development Plan.<\/p>\n \u201cThe gym opening today is in terms of the National Deployment Plan through the Ministry of Health, Wellness Strategies, and the Ministry of Youth. We see that this gym will have a significant impact on the wellness of our people here in Nasinu. As for the youths of Nasinu, we have rugby teams, soccer teams, volleyball teams, and the youths don’t have a gym.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Magnus adds that these investments will boost the Nasinu economy, bringing it closer to achieving its goal of becoming a city by 2030.<\/p>\n \u201cNasinu Town Council has a plan towards 2030 to become a city. So we have two of the components that can make us into a city, can turn us into a city. We have the infrastructure; we have the population. What we don’t have is the local economy. So that’s what we are pushing hard on.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The Grace Road group is expected to open another True Fitness branch in Tamavua, expanding access to premium fitness services in the country.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 18:02:41","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" The Grace Road Group has opened another True Fitness gym in Laqere, Nasinu, making it the 4th gym facility established by the company in the country.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788056,"headline":"British veteran behind North's first food truck","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/british-veteran-behind-norths-first-food-truck\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Peceli Naviticoko ","title":"Multimedia Journalist - North","email":"peceli.naviticoko@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Peceli-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 14, 2026 7:46 am","unix_time":1784015160,"iso_time":"2026-07-14T07:46:24+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dave.png","content":" After serving 15 years in the British Armed Forces and travelling the world, Dave Tyler Ravulo has returned home to Taveuni, where he now operates what is believed to be the first food truck in Fiji’s Northern Division.<\/p>\n The Foodie Veteran, which began operations in November last year, is now more than six months into business and is bringing a new dining experience to the Garden Island by combining fast food with fresh produce sourced directly from the family’s farm.<\/p>\n Ravulo says the business was inspired by his desire to give back to the island where he was raised while contributing to Taveuni’s development and creating opportunities for his family and community.<\/p>\n “After travelling pretty much around the world with my work and experiencing different cultures, my heart was always back here. My dream was always to come back to the island where I was brought up and start something on my home frontage while participating in the development of Taveuni and bringing a taste of overseas to the people of the island.”<\/em><\/p>\n Operating under Veteran Enterprises, the family-run business employs relatives and offers extended opening hours to cater for growing demand from residents, travellers and visitors arriving through the Taveuni jetty.<\/p>\n Ravulo says business has been progressing well despite challenges such as recent fuel and supply disruptions affecting the island, with plans already being explored for future expansion.<\/p>\n The food truck has also travelled beyond Taveuni to serve customers at events in Labasa and regularly supports sporting and community events across the island.<\/p>\n Many of the ingredients used in the food truck come directly from the family’s farm, creating a business model that combines agriculture, healthier food options and local enterprise in one operation.<\/p>\n The former soldier hopes his journey will inspire other Fijians living abroad to return home and invest in their communities, proving that experience gained overseas can help create opportunities back in Fiji.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-14 07:44:55","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" After serving 15 years in the British Armed Forces and travelling the world, Dave Tyler Ravulo has returned home to Taveuni, where he now operates what is believed to be the first food truck in Fiji’s Northern Division.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":787870,"headline":"Aircalin\u2019s first A350 enters final assembly","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/aircalins-first-a350-enters-final-assembly\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 13, 2026 5:36 am","unix_time":1783920960,"iso_time":"2026-07-13T05:36:58+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Air-calin.png","content":" Aircalin\u2019s first Airbus A350-900 has entered final assembly at Airbus\u2019 Toulouse-Blagnac facility, marking a key step towards strengthening its long-haul fleet.<\/p>\n The aircraft\u2019s vertical tail has already been painted in Aircalin\u2019s new livery, featuring the hibiscus flower, the airline\u2019s emblem.<\/p>\n The A350-900 is scheduled for delivery in December 2026 and will gradually enter commercial service on Aircalin\u2019s long-haul routes.<\/p>\n The aircraft will become the first A350-900 in Aircalin\u2019s fleet and will support its Noum\u00e9a-Paris route, while improving connectivity to destinations including Bangkok.<\/p>\n It will carry up to 325 passengers and offer 15 tonnes of cargo capacity, supporting tourism and trade opportunities for New Caledonia.<\/p>\n Aircalin says the aircraft will improve efficiency, reducing fuel consumption by up to 25 percent compared with the A330neo.<\/p>\n The aircraft will also provide enhanced passenger comfort through quieter cabins, improved air quality and updated onboard technology.<\/p>\n Preparation for the aircraft\u2019s arrival has been underway since 2025, with pilots, cabin crew, maintenance teams and ground staff undergoing specialised training.<\/p>\n Aircalin says the A350 project will create 150 local jobs by 2028 and strengthen New Caledonia\u2019s international connectivity.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-13 05:37:47","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Aircalin\u2019s first Airbus A350-900 has entered final assembly at Airbus\u2019 Toulouse-Blagnac facility, marking a key step towards strengthening its long-haul fleet.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":787828,"headline":"Calls grow for Fiji Airways review","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/calls-grow-for-fiji-airways-review\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 12, 2026 4:50 pm","unix_time":1783875000,"iso_time":"2026-07-12T16:50:36+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Fiji-Airways.jpg","content":" Fiji Airways is being urged to review its investment priorities as rising operational costs continue to put pressure on the airline.<\/p>\n Managing Director of McDonald\u2019s Fiji Marc McElrath raised the concern during a post-budget forum in Nadi last night, calling for a reassessment of the airline\u2019s tourism investments.<\/p>\n McElrath questioned whether the airline should focus more on managing costs as it faces increasing financial pressures.<\/p>\n Fiji Airways has highlighted rising operational expenses, prompting the government to introduce a five percent tourism services tax to support the airline.<\/p>\n However, concerns have been raised over whether the airline should also review its own spending and investment decisions.<\/p>\n Fiji Airways says it cannot comment on the matter due to confidentiality requirements.<\/p>\n Permanent Secretary for Finance Shiri Goundar agreed that Fiji Airways must reassess its investments and operations to manage the challenges it faces.<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to rethink about its investment in Sofitel. Can it be done now? Unfortunately, it’s too early. But we need to start thinking, planning, evaluation, and eventually a decision on Sofitel. Secondly, we need to rethink about our flight routes and fleet.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The airline has reported an additional $150 million in fuel costs over the past three months compared to the same period last year, alongside other rising expenses.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-12 14:51:59","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Fiji Airways is being urged to review its investment priorities as rising operational costs continue to put pressure on the airline.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":787756,"headline":"New coffee outlet opens","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/new-coffee-outlet-opens\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 11, 2026 4:39 pm","unix_time":1783787940,"iso_time":"2026-07-11T16:39:35+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-54.png","content":" Working professionals and coffee lovers in Namaka, Nadi, now have a new option to enjoy their favourite brew, with a Bulaccino outlet opening in the area under new ownership while continuing to operate under the established brand.<\/p>\n The cafe has created 15 new employment opportunities and aims to provide a convenient location for customers in the surrounding community.<\/p>\n Bulaccino Namaka Manager Atish Narayan says demand for the new outlet has been strong, with customers responding positively to an introductory promotion offering a one-year coffee pass for $45.<\/p>\n Narayan also pointed out that\u00a0 the Namaka outlet continues to maintain a close connection with existing Bulaccino outlets, receiving support through areas such as purchasing, product supply and business ideas.<\/p>\n He says while ownership of the outlet is different, it continues to operate under the Bulaccino brand, offering the same menu and prices.<\/p>\n Narayan adds that\u00a0 further expansion plans are underway, with two more outlets planned in Nadi, along with locations in Lautoka and other parts of Fiji within the next two months.<\/p>\n The company also plans to take the brand international in the future.<\/p>\n \u201cWe already have plans to open, I think, two in Nadi and then we already have plans in Lautoka as well and a few other places, a few other locations around Fiji, and go international as well.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He says the long-term vision is to create more opportunities for customers and communities through the continued growth of the Bulaccino brand.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-11 16:17:09","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Working professionals and coffee lovers in Namaka, Nadi, now have a new option to enjoy their favourite brew, with a Bulaccino outlet opening in the area under new ownership while continuing to operate under the established brand.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":787759,"headline":"Tokoriki Island Resort reaches new milestone","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/tokoriki-island-resort-reaches-new-milestone\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 11, 2026 4:21 pm","unix_time":1783786860,"iso_time":"2026-07-11T16:21:27+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Untitled-design-55.png","content":" Tokoriki Island Resort has reached another milestone in its journey after being named the top resort in the South Pacific and ranked 43rd among the World\u2019s Top 100 Hotels in the Travel + Leisure World\u2019s Best Awards 2026.<\/p>\n The resort achieved an outstanding reader score of 98.73, retaining its South Pacific title for the third consecutive year.<\/p>\n The annual Travel + Leisure World\u2019s Best Awards survey allows readers worldwide to vote for their favourite hotels, resorts, destinations, airlines and travel experiences.<\/p>\n More than 207,000 readers participated in the 2026 survey, casting over 661,000 votes across more than 10,088 hotels, destinations, cruise lines and other travel experiences.<\/p>\n The latest accolade further strengthens Tokoriki Island Resort\u2019s reputation as one of the South Pacific\u2019s leading boutique luxury resorts.<\/p>\n The resort is recognised for its authentic Fijian hospitality, personalised service, award-winning cuisine, luxury spa experiences and exclusive adults-only setting.<\/p>\n Located in Fiji\u2019s Mamanuca Islands, Tokoriki Island Resort offers an intimate island escape with 36 beachfront bures and villas.<\/p>\n The resort continues to combine contemporary luxury with traditional Fijian architecture and warm island hospitality, creating memorable experiences for guests.<\/p>\n Tokoriki Island Resort General Manager Robert Ring said the recognition reflected the commitment of the resort team, guests and travel partners.<\/p>\n The resort remains focused on delivering authentic Fijian experiences while setting the benchmark for adults-only luxury in the South Pacific.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-11 16:21:27","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Tokoriki Island Resort has reached another milestone in its journey after being named the top resort in the South Pacific and ranked 43rd among the World\u2019s Top 100 Hotels in the Travel + Leisure World\u2019s Best Awards 2026.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"world":[{"id":788640,"headline":"Iran and US step up attacks, release of American in dispute","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/iran-and-us-step-up-attacks-release-of-american-in-dispute\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 3:04 pm","unix_time":1784300640,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T15:04:55+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/iran-n-us.jpg","content":" Iran and the United States exchanged intensifying fire on Thursday in a week-long escalation that has largely \u200cunraveled last month’s truce, while Tehran disputed President Donald Trump’s claim that a U.S. citizen had been released.<\/p>\n For the first time since a memorandum of understanding paused fighting last month, the United States launched two big waves of air strikes in a single day on Wednesday, mostly on targets near Iran’s southern coast, and kept firing on Thursday.<\/p>\n In a statement, U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces began “a new wave of strikes against Iran for the sixth consecutive night to further degrade Iranian military capabilities” at 2 p.m. EDT (1800 GMT) or 9:30 p.m. in Tehran.<\/p>\n Tehran has countered with missiles and drones targeted at U.S. military bases \u200bin neighbouring states, including a barrage at a recently expanded air base in Jordan.<\/p>\n After Tehran resumed its blockade of the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, Washington again blockaded Iranian ports from Wednesday.<\/p>\n The U.S. military said it fired on \u200ba tanker near Iran’s Kharg Island, with Hellfire missiles hitting its smokestack.<\/p>\n On Thursday evening, U.S. projectiles struck Qeshm Island and near Bandar Abbas \u2014 home to Iran’s largest port and key navy and \u2060Revolutionary Guards facilities \u2014 both on the Strait of Hormuz. Several locations in Bandar Abbas were hit by projectiles at 9:35 p.m. local time, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported, attributing the attack to the “American enemy.”<\/p>\n Iran has signalled it could prod its Houthi allies \u200bin Yemen to close another key strait: the Bab al-Mandeb at the mouth of the Red Sea.<\/p>\n Sources told Reuters Iran had already told the Houthis to shut it if Washington carries out threats to attack Iran’s infrastructure.<\/p>\n The week of increasingly intense exchanges has tested the \u200bboundaries of the restraint both sides largely observed during four months of fighting before last month’s truce.<\/p>\n Yet even as the attacks escalated, Trump on Wednesday welcomed what he described as the release of a<\/p>\n U.S. citizen detained in Iran, identified by a human rights lawyer as Dena Karari, calling it a gesture of goodwill by Tehran.<\/p>\n On Thursday, however, Iran’s judiciary challenged that account, saying no American prisoner had been released or exchanged from Iranian prisons, according to state media.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 15:04:55","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Iran and the United States exchanged intensifying fire on Thursday in a week-long escalation that has largely \u200cunraveled last month’s truce, while Tehran disputed President Donald Trump’s claim that a U.S. citizen had been released.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788636,"headline":"Iran tells Houthis to close Red Sea gateway if US hits power network, sources say","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/iran-tells-houthis-to-close-red-sea-gateway-if-us-hits-power-network-sources-say\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 10:07 am","unix_time":1784282820,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T10:07:48+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/red-sea.jpg","content":" Iran has asked Yemen\u2019s Houthi movement to stand ready to close the Red Sea oil route if the United States strikes Iranian power infrastructure, three sources told Reuters on Thursday, posing a potent new threat \u200bto global energy supplies.<\/p>\n The idea has been discussed within the Islamic Republic’s leadership, and the message has been conveyed to Iran’s Houthi allies, two senior Iranian \u200csources and a regional source familiar with the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity.<\/p>\n The sources said the Houthis had been informed recently of Tehran’s request, which has not been previously reported.<\/p>\n They did not give further details on how it had been conveyed or whether it was after U.S. President Donald Trump\u2019s threat to attack Iranian power infrastructure on Tuesday.<\/p>\n Iran\u2019s foreign ministry and a spokesperson for the Houthi group were not immediately available to respond to \u200bReuters’ request.<\/p>\n A source close to the Houthis said the group had completed preparations to attack shipping by deploying missiles and drones \u200bnear Bab el-Mandeb strait, the gateway to the Red Sea, in Yemen’s highlands overlooking Hodeidah and the Gulf of Aden and was awaiting the \u2060order to begin.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 14:10:13","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Iran has asked Yemen\u2019s Houthi movement to stand ready to close the Red Sea oil route if the United States strikes Iranian power infrastructure, three sources told Reuters on Thursday, posing a potent new threat \u200bto global energy supplies.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788536,"headline":"Death toll in Thai pub fire rises to 32","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/death-toll-in-thai-pub-fire-rises-to-32\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 4:53 pm","unix_time":1784220780,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T16:53:22+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Thai.gif","content":" The death toll from an explosive fire at a Bangkok live music pub has risen to 32 after two people died \u200bfrom their injuries, the Police Hospital said, as \u200cpolice investigate the possibility of negligence as a factor in the blaze.<\/p>\n The fire, one of the deadliest in recent years in Thailand, tore through the Rong Beer Na \u200bLat Phrao pub in the city’s northern Chatuchak area close \u200bto midnight on Sunday, with witnesses describing an explosion, a horizontal \u2060burst of fire and smoke engulfing the single-storey venue.<\/p>\n The Erawan Emergency \u200bMedical Centre said 30 people were still being treated in hospitals in \u200bthe city, with 15 of those in intensive care units.<\/p>\n A total of 44 people have been discharged.<\/p>\n Authorities believe the fire was probably sparked by an electrical \u200bshort circuit in a ceiling air conditioner.<\/p>\n Police are investigating the possibility \u200bof negligence and if emergency exits were obstructed, as the government vows to tighten regulations \u200cover \u2060entertainment venues, including random inspections to ensure fire exits are unobstructed and that venues are safe.<\/p>\n The pub had undergone an inspection in April.<\/p>\n The pub, located at a busy intersection next to train stations and \u200btwo shopping malls, \u200bis one of \u2060a cluster of similar bars often crowded on weekend nights, serving food, drinks as well as offering live \u200bmusic and televised sports.<\/p>\n Experts say they think combustible material that \u200bdecorated \u2060the stage to improve acoustics instantly ignited to produce extreme heat, smoke and toxins, choking the trapped patrons.<\/p>\n The use of flammable materials and decorative items, \u2060crowded \u200bconditions and unusable emergency exits in Thai \u200bestablishments have been previously flagged, including after a fire at another Bangkok nightclub in 2009 \u200bthat killed at least 65.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 03:55:49","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" The death toll from an explosive fire at a Bangkok live music pub has risen to 32 after two people died \u200bfrom their injuries, the Police Hospital said, as \u200cpolice investigate the possibility of negligence as a factor in the blaze.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788533,"headline":"Hong Kong police arrest five over 'seditious' books","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/hong-kong-police-arrest-five-over-seditious-books\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 2:41 pm","unix_time":1784212860,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T14:41:16+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Hong-Kong.gif","content":" Hong Kong’s national security police arrested five booksellers on suspected charges of “doing an act with seditious intention”, the government said in a statement late.<\/p>\n The city’s once-flourishing \u200bindependent bookstore industry has dwindled since Beijing imposed sweeping national security legislation \u200con the city in 2020.<\/p>\n Many of these stores, which offered a broader range of political and social titles than those found in mainstream shops, had become vital outlets for Hong Kong’s civil society by hosting \u200bbook talks and workshops.<\/p>\n Police said they received a referral from Hong Kong’s customs \u200bdepartment stating that a “batch of books with seditious intention was intercepted inside \u2060a consignment shipped to Hong Kong from overseas.”<\/p>\n Officers searched two shops in Mong Kok, \u200blocated in the city’s bustling Kowloon district, and arrested two men, aged 37 and 57, and \u200bthree women, aged 30 to 59, the statement said.<\/p>\n “Police investigations revealed that the five arrestees are suspected of displaying items with seditious intent and selling publications with seditious content inside the shops,” the statement \u200bnoted.<\/p>\n It added that the publications involved incited hatred against Hong Kong’s government, the judiciary, and \u200blaw enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n “A batch of books with seditious intention was seized from the shops.”<\/p>\n The South China Morning \u200cPost \u2060identified the bookstores as ‘Have a Nice Stay’ and Greenfield Bookstore.<\/p>\n ‘Have a Nice Stay’ had announced on Tuesday that it would close on August 30, citing reasons including financial losses and an “elusive red line” over what books may be considered problematic.<\/p>\n The arrests come after police in June \u200barrested two owners \u200bof a bookshop in \u2060a separate case, who authorities said were displaying and selling publications with “seditious” content.<\/p>\n Taiwan President Lai Ching-te wrote on his Facebook page on \u200bThursday that every independent bookstore is an important space for safeguarding thought.<\/p>\n “We \u200bwish to \u2060express our concern and respect to all bookstores and cultural workers who continue to stand their ground in difficult circumstances.<\/p>\n Thought and writing should not be imprisoned because of political pressure,” \u2060Lai said.<\/p>\n Yalkun \u200bUluyol, a China researcher at Human Rights Watch, said \u200bin response to the arrests that “democratic governments should press the Hong Kong authorities to free these booksellers.”<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 03:48:24","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Hong Kong’s national security police arrested five booksellers on suspected charges of “doing an act with seditious intention”, the government said in a statement late.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788526,"headline":"New Zealand, Fiji renew five-year partnership","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/pacific-islands\/new-zealand-fiji-renew-five-year-partnership\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 12:08 pm","unix_time":1784203680,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T12:08:36+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Winston.gif","content":" New Zealand and Fiji signed a renewed five-year Duavata Partnership, \u200bsetting out cooperation priorities for 2026 \u200cto 2030 across trade, security, democracy, social development and climate resilience, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston \u200bPeters said after talks in Auckland \u200bwith Fiji counterpart Sakiasi Ditoka.<\/p>\n The agreement renews \u2060an earlier 2022-2025 framework and reaffirms \u200bboth countries’ goal of lifting two-way trade \u200bto NZ$2 billion ($1.17 billion) by 2030.<\/p>\n It also deepens cooperation on policing, border and maritime security, defence \u200bties, renewable energy, disaster preparedness and support \u200bfor the Pacific as an “Ocean of Peace,” according to \u200cthe \u2060joint statement and Peters’ office.<\/p>\n On security, the statement calls for expanded cooperation in community policing, immigration, customs, border security, cybersecurity, intelligence \u200bsharing, maritime \u200bsecurity and \u2060humanitarian and disaster relief. (mfat.govt.nz)<\/p>\n Peters said the ministers also discussed New \u200bZealand’s interest in exploratory discussions with \u200bFiji \u2060and Australia on the Ocean of Peace Alliance.<\/p>\n Ditoka is also due to attend a trade and \u2060investment \u200bministerial meeting hosted by \u200bNew Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 03:48:03","section":"New Zealand","section_id":72,"excerpt":" New Zealand and Fiji signed a renewed five-year Duavata Partnership, \u200bsetting out cooperation priorities for 2026 \u200cto 2030 across trade, security, democracy, social development and climate resilience, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston \u200bPeters said after talks in Auckland \u200bwith Fiji counterpart Sakiasi Ditoka.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788525,"headline":"Flash flood emergency strikes Texas year after Camp Mystic disaster","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/flash-flood-emergency-strikes-texas-year-after-camp-mystic-disaster\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 10:43 am","unix_time":1784198580,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T10:43:35+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Texas.gif","content":" A flash flood watch was posted across \u200ba broad swath of Texas as heavy downpours turned rivers into raging, life-threatening torrents \u200cand washed out more than 100 roads, leading to dozens of rescues of people stranded by high water.<\/p>\n The hardest hit region, according to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, was the Nueces River basin, which runs from a plateau northwest of San Antonio south through flood-prone Texas Hill Country areas \u200bdevastated by flooding in July 2025.<\/p>\n Almost 140 people perished in last year’s flood disaster, including 27 victims, mostly \u200bchildren, at Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River, which flows roughly parallel to the Nueces.<\/p>\n \u2060The two watersheds, both deluged in this week’s rainfall, drain into the Gulf of Mexico.<\/p>\n Abbott, speaking to reporters at \u200ba late-afternoon news briefing on Wednesday, said no fatalities had been reported, and he urged residents of the area to \u200bheed flood warnings.<\/p>\n “There will be a lot of rising water for the next 24 to 48 hours,” the governor said, adding that more than 75 people had been rescued, the majority of them stranded motorists.<\/p>\n “We are dealing with and responding to a flood that is likely \u200bgoing to break records in Texas history.”<\/p>\n Local news media footage showed roads and vehicles submerged in deep currents of \u200bmuddy water that a state transportation official said had washed out at least 114 streets and highways at the peak of Wednesday’s \u200cdownpours.<\/p>\n ‘LIFE-THREATENING RAINFALL \u2060EVENT’<\/p>\n Abbott on Tuesday issued a disaster declaration for 59 counties in south-central Texas, encompassing roughly a fourth of the state, activating emergency response plans and 1,300 personnel from 30-plus agencies.<\/p>\n A flood watch was posted for most of the region, with a flash-flood emergency in effect for Kendall County, adjacent to San Antonio, Abbott said.<\/p>\n “This is a life-threatening rainfall event,” state \u200bemergency management chief W. Nim \u200bKidd told reporters, saying meteorologists \u2060had reported rainfall rates of up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) an hour.<\/p>\n Showers that began on Monday had dumped 10 to 15 inches of rain on the flood-stricken region by \u200bWednesday, and another 10 to 15 inches was expected through Thursday morning, Abbott said.<\/p>\n Texas was \u200bnot alone in \u2060facing a severe threat from torrential rain and high water.<\/p>\n The National Weather Service posted a flash flood watch for Thursday across much of central and southern Arizona, from Prescott and Phoenix south through Tucson and on to the Mexico border, due \u2060to heavy \u200bmonsoonal storms sweeping the region.<\/p>\n Similar advisories were issued for the scenic canyon \u200bareas of southern Utah.<\/p>\n The heavy rains and flooding in the Southwest coincided with a prolonged heat wave bringing sweltering, humid weather to the Rockies, Northern \u200bPlains, Great Lakes and mid-Atlantic region, the weather service said.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 03:44:03","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" A flash flood watch was posted across \u200ba broad swath of Texas as heavy downpours turned rivers into raging, life-threatening torrents \u200cand washed out more than 100 roads, leading to dozens of rescues of people stranded by high water.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788524,"headline":"White House weighs releasing controversial intel on China","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/white-house-weighs-releasing-controversial-intel-on-china\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 16, 2026 8:36 am","unix_time":1784190960,"iso_time":"2026-07-16T08:36:33+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/White-House.gif","content":" The White House is considering releasing sensitive intelligence related to China and its ability to interfere in U.S. elections that some Trump officials worry could be misleading, according to \u200bfour people with knowledge of the deliberations.<\/p>\n Trump may disclose the intelligence, which was collected and analyzed during his first term, in a speech that he is due to \u200cdeliver on Thursday night, when he is expected to outline information about alleged vulnerabilities in the voting infrastructure that could allow for foreign interference in U.S. elections, the sources said.<\/p>\n Reuters could not determine the details of the intelligence, but sources said it is classified and related to whether China had the intention or ability to disrupt U.S. elections in 2020.<\/p>\n The sources, who were granted anonymity to discuss classified material, said the intelligence did not show Beijing had manipulated or changed votes.<\/p>\n Trump has \u200bcontinued to repeat the debunked claim that the 2020 election was rigged, suggesting a foreign actor was involved in flipping votes despite legal rulings that Democrat Joe Biden won.<\/p>\n His speech on \u200bThursday may reveal new information about a year-long effort by the Trump administration to collect and review material on what the White House says are vulnerabilities \u2060in the nation\u2019s voting infrastructure.<\/p>\n The effort is part of a wider campaign to exert federal control over the administration of U.S. elections \u2014 a role that rests solely with the states under the U.S. Constitution.<\/p>\n \u201cAs usual, \u200banonymous sources are speculating about what President Trump will say during his speech on Thursday evening. The truth is, nobody knows yet what President Trump will ultimately say,” White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said.<\/p>\n The Office of \u200bthe Director of National Intelligence did not respond to requests for comment. The CIA declined to comment.<\/p>\n NO EVIDENCE CHINA MANIPULATED VOTES<\/p>\n The China intelligence was integral to the first Trump administration\u2019s debate about foreign interference in the 2020 election and was reviewed as part of the official intelligence community\u2019s assessment on the issue, the four sources said.<\/p>\n Trump officials said publicly during the first administration that Chinese hackers were targeting election infrastructure ahead of the 2020 election.<\/p>\n Former officials have repeatedly said there is no \u200bevidence to suggest China or any other foreign adversary manipulated votes in 2020.<\/p>\n A 2021 U.S. intelligence community assessment found no indications that any foreign actor attempted or succeeded in altering \u201cany technical aspect\u201d of \u200bthe 2020 presidential election vote, including voter registrations, ballots, tabulations or results.<\/p>\n But former intelligence analysts, including Christopher Porter, who served as a national intelligence officer on cyber at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, wrote a dissent \u200cto that \u2060report, saying China had the ability to interfere in the elections and could be trying to do so.<\/p>\n A version of that dissent was included in the public release of the 2021 intelligence community assessment.<\/p>\n Porter also wrote a highly classified paper on the subject, expanding on his original argument, two sources said.<\/p>\n Two of the sources who reviewed the paper described it as detailed, outlining specific details of Beijing\u2019s thinking on U.S. elections.<\/p>\n Two others said the paper pulled from a small subset of raw intelligence and did not necessarily represent Beijing\u2019s official viewpoint.<\/p>\n Porter has since publicly accused the intelligence community of covering up his dissent reports during Trump’s first \u200bterm.<\/p>\n Porter declined to comment.<\/p>\n The sources expressed concern that the \u200bTrump administration could exaggerate the significance of Porter’s \u2060dissent and use it to argue that China did have influence over the outcome of the 2020 vote.<\/p>\n The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.<\/p>\n DEBATE OVER DECLASSIFICATION<\/p>\n Current Trump officials have debated in recent weeks whether to declassify the intelligence, with some inside the intelligence agencies worried that \u200bdoing so could reveal sources and methods of collection and insinuate that Beijing successfully interfered in past elections, two of the sources said.<\/p>\n A White House \u200btask force led by conservative \u2060journalist John Solomon recently asked the intelligence community for documents outlining the intelligence and has spent the past several weeks reviewing them in anticipation of Trump’s speech, one source familiar with the group\u2019s work said.<\/p>\n The White House did not respond to questions about Solomon’s efforts.<\/p>\n The text of the speech has not been finalized and may still change, the source said.<\/p>\n The White House may also release information related to a years-old allegation that China gained access \u2060to U.S. voter \u200bdata in 2020, a source familiar with the White House\u2019s debates said.<\/p>\n Two people familiar with that issue said that voter data \u200bis not confidential, is already available to political consultants for use in targeting election materials, and cannot be manipulated.<\/p>\n The Trump and Biden administrations both reviewed intelligence about China\u2019s potential access to voter data, but two former officials said the intelligence community largely believed \u200bthat China did not gain entry to U.S. voter systems but instead accessed the information online.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 03:41:14","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" The White House is considering releasing sensitive intelligence related to China and its ability to interfere in U.S. elections that some Trump officials worry could be misleading, according to \u200bfour people with knowledge of the deliberations.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788322,"headline":"Oil prices rise as Iran and US clash in Strait of Hormuz","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/oil-prices-rise-as-iran-and-us-clash-in-strait-of-hormuz\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 4:22 pm","unix_time":1784132520,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T16:22:51+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Birds-fly-over-pump-jacks-at-the-Airankol-oil-field-operated-by-Caspiy-Neft-in-the-Atyrau-region-Kazakhstan.png","content":" Oil rose on Wednesday as President Donald Trump reimposed a naval blockade on all Iranian ports and Iran launched retaliatory strikes on U.S. infrastructure in the \u200bregion.<\/p>\n For the second straight session, Brent closed at its highest since June 12 \u200cand West Texas Intermediate at its highest since June 15 and rose further on early Wednesday trade.<\/p>\n Brent rose $1.46, or 1.72%, to $86.19 a barrel by 0029 GMT while WTI was up $1.11, or 1.4%, to $80.40 a \u200bbarrel.<\/p>\n Oil prices closed up 2% to a one-month high on Tuesday as attacks \u200bdeepened a supply disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, where some one-fifth \u2060of the world\u2019s oil and liquefied natural gas transited prior to the beginning of the \u200bwar.<\/p>\n Early on Wednesday, the U.S. also began a fresh round of strikes “to continue degrading Iranian capabilities \u200bused to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz,” the U.S. military said.<\/p>\n Tehran says it has again closed the strait after hostilities between Iran and the U.S. reignited last week, fraying an already \u200bfragile truce reached in June after several months of fighting.<\/p>\n Iran’s army said early on Wednesday that it had launched drone attacks against U.S. positions at Jordan’s Azraq base. There was no immediate comment from the Pentagon.<\/p>\n Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said they targeted weapons and storage facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait. \u200bReuters could not immediately \u200bverify the reports.<\/p>\n The flare-up \u2060over the last few days has heightened doubts that a memorandum of understanding signed last month would lead to a permanent halt \u200bto the war, which has engulfed Iran’s neighbors.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 15:01:47","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Oil rose on Wednesday as President Donald Trump reimposed a naval blockade on all Iranian ports and Iran launched retaliatory strikes on U.S. infrastructure in the \u200bregion.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788319,"headline":"'Just more bureaucracy': AI plan under the blowtorch","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/australia\/just-more-bureaucracy-ai-plan-under-the-blowtorch\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":null,"title":null,"email":null,"twitter":null,"thumbnail":null},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 3:30 pm","unix_time":1784129400,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T15:30:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Photo-Credit-AAP-ImageJono-Searle.png","content":" A landmark move to regulate Australia’s AI uptake from the prime minister’s department would just create more bureaucracy, the opposition says.<\/p>\n Anthony Albanese plans to take a leading role managing the nation’s approach to the artificial intelligence revolution, declaring an end to the government’s current case-by-case approach.<\/p>\n In a speech on Wednesday, Mr Albanese will compare AI’s impact on society to that of commercial air travel 100 years ago, promising to establish an AI office within his department after months of pressure from the tech industry and advocates concerned about the rapid shifts in the global economy.<\/p>\n The wide-ranging speech will include rules on where data centres can be built, Labor sources say.<\/p>\n “Getting this right will enhance our appeal to international investors, by delivering greater clarity and speed for approvals, and a streamlined process for verifying compliance,” Mr Albanese will say.<\/p>\n “But just as government developed co-ordinated approaches for other significant technologies: from civil aviation in the 1920s to genetics in the 1990s, we must do this with AI as well.”<\/p>\n Mr Albanese will also point to security concerns around the new technology.<\/p>\n “We know that both extremists and state actors already use AI to create propaganda aimed at young people – and to spread disinformation that targets democracies,” he will say.<\/p>\n Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said he’d wait to hear the full speech, but was concerned about the government’s approach.<\/p>\n “What’s very clear is (Mr Albanese’s) first reaction is just create more bureaucracy,” he told reporters in Sydney on Wednesday.<\/p>\n “The first reaction should be to make sure Australia is secure, getting access to the very best AI for cyber defence.”<\/p>\n But assistant minister for science, technology and the digital economy Andrew Charlton said the plan would help Australia shape how AI was used and harness its benefits.<\/p>\n “There are many different departments within government that have equities in this space. So the prime minister is bringing national leadership to the issue,” he told ABC Radio National.<\/p>\n Mr Albanese would also outline an “Australian approach” to large data centres, Dr Charlton said.<\/p>\n “We want to learn the lessons from abroad, where so many of those data centres have been rolled out in ways that have damaged local communities, that have sucked up energy, that have impacted local drinking water sources. We don’t want to make those mistakes in Australia,” he said.<\/p>\n Independent MP Allegra Spender said there was significant concern in the community about AI’s impact on privacy and children, arguing the government should have acted sooner.<\/p>\n “It is right that the government is trying to be more on the front foot on AI. Frankly, I wish they had done this earlier,” she told Nine’s Today Show.<\/p>\n Labor MP Ed Husic, a former industry minister, said it was good to see the government finally acting on the risks of AI.<\/p>\n “Sometimes I’m shaking my head … we deliver a faster response to dangerous strawberries as opposed to the dangers of high-risk AI,” he told ABC Radio Sydney, referencing the Morrison government’s attempts to crack down on people placing needles in supermarket strawberries in 2018.<\/p>\n “There’s a range of different areas where AI can pose a risk, and we can’t have a sort of – as I’ve previously said – a whack-a-mole approach,” Mr Husic said.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 15:36:30","section":"Australia","section_id":70,"excerpt":" A landmark move to regulate Australia’s AI uptake from the prime minister’s department would just create more bureaucracy, the opposition says.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788302,"headline":"Man dies in car after reported suburban shooting","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/australia\/man-dies-in-car-after-reported-suburban-shooting\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":null,"title":null,"email":null,"twitter":null,"thumbnail":null},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 1:35 pm","unix_time":1784122500,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T13:35:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/olice-tape-at-a-crime-scene-where-a-building-was-destroyed-in-a-suspected-fire-bombing-last-night-in-Richmond-Melbourne.png","content":" A man has died in an early morning shooting, prompting a homicide investigation.<\/p>\n Emergency services were called to North Rocks Rd, Carlingford, in Sydney’s northwest shortly after 7am on Wednesday, following reports of a shooting.<\/p>\n Officers from The Hills Police Area Command found the man, aged in his 30s, with significant injuries inside a car.<\/p>\n He was unable to be revived and died at the scene.<\/p>\n He is yet to be formally identified.<\/p>\n A crime scene has been established and inquiries are ongoing, police said.<\/p>\n North Rocks Rd remained closed at 9am with the public urged to avoid the area.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 13:31:12","section":"Australia","section_id":70,"excerpt":" A man has died in an early morning shooting, prompting a homicide investigation.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788258,"headline":"Ex-employees sue Meta for alleged bias in AI-led job cuts","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/ex-employees-sue-meta-for-alleged-bias-in-ai-led-job-cuts\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 12:40 pm","unix_time":1784119200,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T12:40:35+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Meta.png","content":" Twenty-six employees of Meta \u200cPlatforms (META.O), opens new tab have filed a novel lawsuit accusing the tech giant of using AI-powered software that disproportionately targeted people with disabilities or who took medical leave in selecting workers for mass layoffs.<\/p>\n The lawsuit, filed in Oakland, California, federal court late Monday, says that the company \u200brelied on factors such as productivity and AI token usage when it slashed thousands of jobs earlier this \u200byear, disadvantaging people who missed work because of medical conditions or to care for family \u2060members.<\/p>\n The plaintiffs, who were notified in May that their jobs would be eliminated starting on July 22, \u200bare seeking a preliminary ruling from the court blocking Meta from completing the layoffs while they pursue their \u200bclaims in private arbitration. The workers say Meta’s agreements require employees to arbitrate workplace disputes individually, but do not apply to requests for temporary relief.<\/p>\n A Meta spokesperson on Tuesday said the claims lack merit.<\/p>\n The lawsuit appears to be the first against a major U.S. company \u200bto challenge the alleged use of AI in conducting layoffs.<\/p>\n Meta laid off 10% of its global workforce in May, or nearly \u200c8,000 \u2060people, and was planning more job cuts later this year, Reuters had reported. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has since said that he does not expect any more company-wide layoffs this year.<\/p>\n The changes are part of a far-reaching overhaul as the company increases its AI investments and centers AI agents in both its product offerings and its \u200bapproach to work internally.<\/p>\n \u200bThe 26 plaintiffs, who \u2060filed the lawsuit anonymously, are accusing Meta of violating federal and state laws that ban discrimination or retaliation against workers who have disabilities, take medical leave or are \u200bpregnant. They also claim that Meta failed to test its AI systems for \u200bbias in \u2060violation of recently adopted California and New York City laws.<\/p>\n The plaintiffs come from six states, including California and New York, and the District of Columbia.<\/p>\n According to the complaint, Meta used a number of internal AI-assisted systems to score and rank employees \u2060on a \u200btermination list. Those included “Metamate,” a large language model assistant; an employee-trained “second \u200bbrain” that tracked workers’ communications and documents; and a productivity score drawn from scanning keystrokes, screen content, emails and browser history, according \u200bto the lawsuit.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 09:44:09","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Twenty-six employees of Meta \u200cPlatforms (META.O), opens new tab have filed a novel lawsuit accusing the tech giant of using AI-powered software that disproportionately targeted people with disabilities or who took medical leave in selecting workers for mass layoffs.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788251,"headline":"Carroll receives $5.63m damages payment from Trump","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/carroll-receives-5-63m-damages-payment-from-trump\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"July 15, 2026 11:27 am","unix_time":1784114820,"iso_time":"2026-07-15T11:27:21+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Writer-E.-Jean-Carroll.png","content":" The writer E. Jean Carroll \u200bhas collected nearly $5.63 million from Donald Trump after a jury in 2023 found the U.S. \u200cpresident liable for sexually abusing and defaming her, court records show.<\/p>\n Over Trump’s objections, the money was released to Carroll’s law firm on Monday, five days after U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan authorized the disbursement from a court-supervised \u200baccount.<\/p>\n It is the first time \u200bTrump has been forced to pay Carroll. She has won $88.3 million of civil \u2060verdicts against the president in the seven years since he first denied having raped her around \u200b1996 in a Bergdorf Goodman department store dressing room in Manhattan.<\/p>\n Trump has branded Carroll’s claims a \u200bhoax, denied he knew her, said she made up the alleged rape to help sell her memoir, and derided her case as “weaponization and lawfare.” Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected Trump’s appeal from the $5 million verdict.<\/p>\n A spokesperson for Trump’s \u200blegal team on Tuesday repeated a statement made after Kaplan’s decision: “The American People stand with President \u200bTrump as they demand an immediate end to all of the Witch Hunts, including the Democrat-funded travesty of \u200cthe Carroll \u2060Hoaxes.”<\/p>\n Last week, Trump’s lawyer asked a federal appeals court to block a disbursement, saying the president would suffer “irreparable harm” if Carroll fulfilled her stated intention to give away the money because the money likely could not be recovered.<\/p>\n The lawyer also said it did not matter that \u200bCarroll now assures she \u200bwill put the money \u2060in an interest-bearing account to fund her retirement, because she could still give it away.<\/p>\n Jurors awarded Carroll $5 million based on a Trump denial in 2022, \u200bthough they did not find that Trump raped her.<\/p>\n A different jury in \u200b2024 ordered Trump \u2060to pay Carroll $83.3 million, based on his original 2019 denial during his first White House term.<\/p>\n Trump is expected to appeal that verdict to the Supreme Court.<\/p>\n Carroll’s lawyer Roberta Kaplan, who is not related to the \u2060judge, \u200bsaid in a statement: “Three years ago, a unanimous nine-person jury \u200bfound President Trump liable for sexually assaulting and defaming E. Jean Carroll. We are pleased to report that she has received \u200bthe damages payment the jury awarded her.”<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-15 09:42:31","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" The writer E. Jean Carroll \u200bhas collected nearly $5.63 million from Donald Trump after a jury in 2023 found the U.S. \u200cpresident liable for sexually abusing and defaming her, court records show.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"headlines":[{"id":788663,"headline":"Salvation Army launches drug recovery centre","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/salvation-army-launches-drug-recovery-centre\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"News Journalist","email":"fbcnews@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:14 pm","unix_time":1784308440,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:14:05+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/sitiveni.png","content":" The Salvation Army has opened a new alcohol and drug recovery centre to host its Alcohol and Drug Programme, aimed at addressing alcohol and drug dependency in the country through daytime and afternoon sessions and workshops.<\/p>\n With escalating challenges surrounding drug and alcohol abuse, the center fosters a support system that will guide victims to the path of recovery.<\/p>\n Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the center provides another pathway to recovery for participants while also keeping them connected to their families and communities.<\/p>\n \u201cThis program reflects the powerful truth that recovery does not happen in isolation, by investing in compassionate, evidence-based rehabilitation, we encourage sustainable lifelong healing\u201d<\/p>\n Salvation Army Fiji Division Commander Major Phillipa Serevi says the program takes a holistic approach to recovery.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have the 12 step program and we also have the positive lifestyle program that is happening and then they will also have outside activities that will help them. So, it’s a holistic program that is not just in the class but interacting with outside inside and other members of the community and family as well.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Serevi adds that the program intends to encourage participants by recognizing and celebrating their recovery milestones.<\/p>\n \u201cIt’s just the coming together of encouragement and where we celebrate one year sober, even six months, five years and everything and we make it a big thing, like a celebration because it is really hard to get away from those habits\u201d.<\/em><\/p>\n The AOD programme will take in 15 participants, where they will go through a 12 to 15 weeks recovery programme, focusing on the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol while also integrating positive lifestyle components.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:15:33","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Salvation Army has opened a new alcohol and drug recovery centre to host its Alcohol and Drug Programme, aimed at addressing alcohol and drug dependency in the country through daytime and afternoon sessions and workshops.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788656,"headline":"Disability inclusion a national development priority","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/disability-inclusion-a-national-development-priority\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Peceli Naviticoko ","title":"Multimedia Journalist - North","email":"peceli.naviticoko@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Peceli-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:07 pm","unix_time":1784308020,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:07:40+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/disability.png","content":" Disability inclusion is no longer being viewed as simply a welfare issue but as a national development priority requiring action across every sector.<\/p>\n The message was reinforced during the launch of the study on the rights of children with disabilities, where officials highlighted reforms and legislation aimed at building a more inclusive Fiji.<\/p>\n Principal Welfare Officer North Rohit Sharma acknowledged the children and families who shared their experiences as part of the study, noting their contributions have helped shine a light on the realities faced by many across the country.<\/p>\n “Most importantly, I acknowledge the children and families who shared their stories, experiences and aspirations. Your voices give meaning to this report and remind us why our work matters today.”<\/em><\/p>\n The findings are expected to guide future policies, planning and resource allocation, with disability inclusion now embedded within Fiji’s National Development Plan and Vision 2050.<\/p>\n Removing barriers that continue to prevent children with disabilities from fully participating in family, school and community life remains a key focus of the government’s broader development agenda.<\/p>\n Government has also introduced several reforms aimed at strengthening child protection and support systems, including the establishment of the Department of Children, the Child Care and Protection Act 2024 and the Child Justice Act 2024.<\/p>\n Sharma described the creation of the Department of Children as an important milestone in providing dedicated policy leadership and improving coordination of services for children.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Alefina Vuki stressed that no child should ever be denied their fundamental rights because of a disability.<\/p>\n Officials acknowledged that while significant progress has been made, implementation and collaboration will determine whether the reforms translate into meaningful change for children and their families.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 17:10:20","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Disability inclusion is no longer being viewed as simply a welfare issue but as a national development priority requiring action across every sector.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788654,"headline":"Customs officers to receive wider investigative powers","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/customs-officers-to-receive-wider-investigative-powers\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:05 pm","unix_time":1784307900,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:05:38+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Fiji-Revenue-and-Customs-Service.jpg","content":" Customs officers will be given broader powers to investigate importers under proposed amendments to the Customs Act aimed at strengthening compliance and protecting government revenue.<\/p>\n Speaking in Parliament, Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel says the Customs Budget Amendment Bill 2026 will allow Fiji Revenue and Customs Service officers to question traders and others connected to goods under customs control.<\/p>\n He says the Bill also makes it an offence to fail to provide information or documents required under customs law, strengthening compliance with customs regulations.<\/p>\n Another key amendment extends the period for FRCS to recover unpaid customs duties from one year to five years, giving the agency more time to recover outstanding payments.<\/p>\n “This provides greater certainty in determining the classification, composition, or value of goods where necessary. The Bill also strengthens enforcement by introducing an offence for failing to provide information or documents required under customs law.”<\/em><\/p>\n He says the new powers will improve customs investigations and help prevent duty evasion and other customs-related offences.<\/p>\n Opposition MP Premila Kumar says the proposed Customs Bill gives officers more powers but lacks important legal safeguards to protect people during investigations.<\/p>\n “These safeguards protect innocent people from unfair treatment and ensure that investigations are carried out properly. Fourth concern is the new power allowing FRCS to order independent testing of imported goods.”<\/em><\/p>\n Kumar says the Bill does not clearly explain when testing can be ordered, how much importers may be charged, or how long the process should take, which could unfairly affect businesses.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 16:56:15","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Customs officers will be given broader powers to investigate importers under proposed amendments to the Customs Act aimed at strengthening compliance and protecting government revenue.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788652,"headline":"Road safety watchdog returns","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/road-safety-watchdog-returns\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:03 pm","unix_time":1784307780,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:03:49+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Traffic-cars.png","content":" The National Road Safety Council will be re-established as Fiji records its highest number of road deaths in 15 years.<\/p>\n The issue was raised in Parliament by Opposition MP Vijay Nath, who questioned the Government on funding for the Council after 83 people died on Fiji\u2019s roads last year.<\/p>\n Assistant Minister for Transport Naisa Tuinaceva said the legislation to bring back the Council was currently before the Solicitor-General\u2019s Office and is expected to be completed soon.<\/p>\n He said the Council would be given a new structure and will operate separately from the Land Transport Authority.<\/p>\n \u201cYou cannot put it under together with the same Land Transport Authority because you are already a regulator and you are an enforcer and you cannot be a referee and a player at the same time. So you need somebody out there who will be watching and checking on the compliance party as far as road safety goes.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Tuinaceva said the return of the Council would provide independent oversight to monitor road safety efforts and check compliance.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau said road safety activities have continued, with $300,000 allocated in the LTA budget for enforcement, awareness campaigns, community outreach and road safety education.<\/p>\n The government adds that restoring the Council is part of efforts to strengthen response to the growing road safety concerns.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 16:51:31","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The National Road Safety Council will be re-established as Fiji records its highest number of road deaths in 15 years.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788649,"headline":"New weather stations to strengthen Fiji\u2019s early warnings","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/new-weather-stations-to-strengthen-fijis-early-warnings\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Bhagwan","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"riya.bhagwan@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"rbhagwan@fbcnews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Riya-Bhagwan-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 5:00 pm","unix_time":1784307600,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T17:00:42+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/weather.png","content":" Remote communities across Fiji that have long faced challenges accessing reliable weather information could soon benefit from improved early warnings for cyclones, floods and other extreme weather events.<\/p>\n This follows a week-long technical workshop supporting the introduction of 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Stations, commonly known as 3D-PAWS, to the Fiji Meteorological Service.<\/p>\n The low-cost technology is designed to expand weather data collection and strengthen forecasting capabilities across the country, with plans underway to deploy the stations in remote areas.<\/p>\n The workshop, led by the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research\u2019s Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorology, Education, and Training, trained Fiji Meteorological Service staff to build, deploy and maintain the systems.<\/p>\n Funded by the US Department of State\u2019s Bureau of Disaster and Humanitarian Response and the US National Weather Service, the workshop has resulted in the deployment of nine stations in Fiji, with an additional 40 planned.<\/p>\n U.S. Embassy Suva Charg\u00e9 d\u2019Affaires Kelly Busby said the stations measure key weather conditions including temperature, rainfall, wind speed, wind direction, humidity and atmospheric pressure.<\/p>\n The data collected will support more accurate forecasting, agricultural monitoring, public health applications and disaster preparedness.<\/p>\n \u201cWith this innovative American technology, Pacific nations can build out a weather station network in about a week at less than 500 US dollars for each station, something that used to cost thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Busby said Pacific nations can now build weather station networks at a significantly lower cost compared with traditional systems, which previously required thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.<\/p>\n The stations use locally sourced materials, 3D printers and micro-sensor technology from United States company Maxbotix.<\/p>\n The technology also allows meteorological services to repair damaged components locally by printing replacement parts.<\/p>\n Busby said many areas of the Pacific remain sparsely observed, meaning there are not enough weather stations to provide the data needed for accurate forecasts.<\/p>\n Improved weather observations will help close this information gap and strengthen the tracking of tropical cyclones and other hazards.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 16:47:12","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Remote communities across Fiji that have long faced challenges accessing reliable weather information could soon benefit from improved early warnings for cyclones, floods and other extreme weather events.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788626,"headline":"Fiji Airways explores local carbon projects","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fiji-airways-explores-local-carbon-projects\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 3:04 pm","unix_time":1784300640,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T15:04:40+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Fiji-airways.png","content":" Under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, airlines including Fiji Airways must offset emissions on eligible international routes.<\/p>\n Rather than purchasing credits from overseas markets, Fiji Airways is exploring whether high-integrity, local carbon projects can meet CORSIA’s requirements to keep the economic and environmental benefits at home.<\/p>\n Fiji’s First Aviation-Focused Carbon Market Training to build this local capability, Fiji Airways hosted an IATA-led Carbon Market Training at the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy.<\/p>\n The training was designed to build a shared understanding across regulators and the industry.<\/p>\n This initiative falls under the airline’s Maroroya (meaning “to protect” in Fijian) Sustainability Strategy, which explores how carbon markets can expand the airline\u2019s broader conservation efforts.<\/p>\n Fiji Airways Chief Executive Paul Scurrah says this training is about making sure Fiji isn’t just meeting an international obligation but building the local capability to shape how that obligation is met through projects that protect our environment and benefit our communities at the same time.<\/p>\n Deputy Conservator of Forests Apisai Rinamalo says Fiji has already generated high-integrity emission reduction units through the National Emission Reduction Programme.<\/p>\n He added that a carbon trading partnership would enable the forestry sector to directly support aviation’s Net Zero ambitions while promoting sustainable forest management.<\/p>\n Participants will work closely with government ministries to develop CORSIA-eligible carbon projects within Fiji.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:42:09","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, airlines including Fiji Airways must offset emissions on eligible international routes.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788629,"headline":"FMIB certification boosts meat export opportunities","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fmib-certification-boosts-meat-export-opportunities\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 3:03 pm","unix_time":1784300580,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T15:03:13+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Kuridrani-1.png","content":" The Fiji Meat Industry Board’s internationally recognized HACCP Australia Certification is expected to strengthen Fiji’s meat export potential while raising food safety standards across the livestock industry.<\/p>\n Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Inosi Kuridrani says the certification provides a globally recognised framework for managing food safety risks throughout meat production, boosting consumer confidence and improving Fiji’s access to regional and international markets.<\/p>\n He says the achievement supports the Agriculture Sector Strategic Development Plan 2024\u20132030 by strengthening food safety and biosecurity systems, modernizing agricultural value chains and improving export readiness.<\/p>\n Kuridrani says the certification will also benefit livestock farmers by providing reliable processing pathways, creating new export opportunities and supporting the growth of a resilient, competitive and sustainable livestock sector.<\/p>\n The certification recognizes FMIB’s commitment to maintaining the highest food safety standards and producing safe, high-quality meat products.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:49:14","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Fiji Meat Industry Board’s internationally recognized HACCP Australia Certification is expected to strengthen Fiji’s meat export potential while raising food safety standards across the livestock industry.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788633,"headline":"PM awards application now open","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/pm-awards-application-now-open\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 3:00 pm","unix_time":1784300400,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T15:00:18+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/PMs-International-Business-Awards-return.jpg","content":" Applications are now open for the anticipated Prime Minister’s International Business Awards 2026, and Fijian businesses have an opportunity to be recognised on the national stage.<\/p>\n This year, according to its theme “Economic Transformation and Inclusive Growth, it is calling on local businesses to move beyond traditional strengths and build new ones.<\/p>\n In a statement, governments investment arm, Investment Fiji, while elaborating on the theme, noted that economic transformation meant shifting away from relying on only sugar and basic tourism to building industries like business process outsourcing, agri-tech, and green energy.<\/p>\n Adding that it meant using digital tools to make Fijian products and services competitive anywhere in the world, making sure that growth does not stay only in Suva and Nadi, but reaches rural areas and maritime islands too.<\/p>\n Investment Fiji says, there are four main awards this year, one is Supreme Award for the overall winner who stands out across all categories, noting that the winner will have to demonstrate commercial success and benefits across multiple facets including job creation, innovation, service excellence, social responsibility, adaptation, resilience and sustainability.<\/p>\n The firm further detailed that there will be three general categories and 12 special awards available and that all application process is done online via the awards website – www.iba.org.fj and clicking the ‘Apply Now’ tab to begin submission process.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:52:49","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Applications are now open for the anticipated Prime Minister’s International Business Awards 2026, and Fijian businesses have an opportunity to be recognised on the national stage.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788622,"headline":"Report reveals barriers facing children with disabilities","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/report-reveals-barriers-facing-children-with-disabilities\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Peceli Naviticoko ","title":"Multimedia Journalist - North","email":"peceli.naviticoko@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Peceli-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:09 pm","unix_time":1784293740,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:09:57+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Baseline.png","content":" Despite legislative progress, children with disabilities in Fiji still face major barriers to education, healthcare, and essential services, according to a new report by the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission.<\/p>\n Launched in Labasa, the Summary Report of the Baseline Study on the Rights of Children with Disabilities in Fiji details the daily struggles of these children across the country.<\/p>\n HRADC Commissioner highlighted the disparities many children still face.<\/p>\n “The baseline study report shows that children with disabilities in Fiji face various challenges in accessing education, health care and other essential services because of factors such as physical inaccessibility, stigma and discrimination, enforcement gaps, underinvestment and limited availability of disability inclusive programs and services.”<\/em><\/p>\n The study surveyed 54 children and families, 10 communities (including Macuata, Kadavu, Ba, Ra, and Naitasiri), and 57 organizations – spanning civil society, faith-based groups, and government agencies.<\/p>\n Participants lived with various conditions – such as Down syndrome, autism, hearing impairments, and learning disabilities – with cerebral palsy being the most common.<\/p>\n Research focused on laws and participation, child and family experiences, community attitudes, support systems, health\/rehabilitation, education, and justice\/protection.<\/p>\n Children often face intersectional discrimination based on gender, disability type, household income, ethnicity, and location.<\/p>\n Accessibility issues in schools and rehabilitation services are most acute in rural and maritime communities.<\/p>\n While acknowledging government assistance, parent Sudesh Singh noted that many families still face heavy financial pressure and need greater support to improve their children’s quality of life.<\/p>\n The Commission expects the report to guide future policy, budgeting, and service delivery.<\/p>\n It calls for a coordinated national response to address service gaps and ensure every child with a disability can fully enjoy their rights.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:17:03","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Despite legislative progress, children with disabilities in Fiji still face major barriers to education, healthcare, and essential services, according to a new report by the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788620,"headline":"Government tightens tax reporting penalties","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/government-tightens-tax-reporting-penalties\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:07 pm","unix_time":1784293620,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:07:06+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Esrom-Immanuel.jpg","content":" The government is introducing tougher penalties to strengthen tax compliance and improve the accuracy of information submitted to the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.<\/p>\n Speaking in Parliament, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel says the proposed amendments to the Income Tax Act and Tax Administration Act will require taxpayers to notify FRCS when a property transaction does not proceed after a capital gains tax certificate has been issued.<\/p>\n He says penalties will apply to those who fail to notify FRCS or provide complete details in their tax reporting.<\/p>\n Immanuel says that the amendments will also require businesses submitting monthly provisional tax summaries to disclose all contractors they engage, regardless of whether tax has been withheld.<\/p>\n \u201cClause 8 of the Bill amends the Act by introducing penalties for failure to notify the CEO where a capital gains tax certificate has been issued, but the relevant transaction does not proceed, and failure to include all contracted details, including those holding certificates of exemption, in the Provisional Tax Monthly Summary. This is to strengthen compliance and improve the completeness and accuracy of tax information.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Immanuel adds that the changes are aimed at improving the completeness and accuracy of tax information while strengthening compliance across Fiji’s tax system.<\/p>\n The amendments are among 13 consequential bills tabled in Parliament to implement the government’s 2026\u20132027 Budget policy changes.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:11:49","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The government is introducing tougher penalties to strengthen tax compliance and improve the accuracy of information submitted to the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788617,"headline":"Revised GBV protocol improves survivor care","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/revised-gbv-protocol-improves-survivor-care\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Praneeta Prakash","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"praneeta.prakash@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"PraneetaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Praneeta-Prakash-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:05 pm","unix_time":1784293500,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:05:27+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/sashi-kiran-1.png","content":" Medical Services Pacific says no survivor of gender-based violence should face recovery alone as Fiji launched the revised National Service Delivery Protocol for Responding to Cases of Gender-Based Violence.<\/p>\n MSP Director Dr. Kesaia Robinson says the protocol strengthens coordination among agencies to improve support for survivors.<\/p>\n She also revealed that their Post-Rape Clinic has treated more than 1,700 survivors of sexual violence, with 94 per cent being women and 77 per cent children under 18.<\/p>\n She says while significant progress has been made, too many survivors continue to suffer in silence.<\/p>\n \u201cFor many survivors, the first hours of the experience of sexual violence are the most frightening times of their experience. They arrive frightened, they come in ashamed, confused; they cannot speak.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Dr. Robinson says these figures show the urgent need for agencies to work together.<\/p>\n \u201cSo the revised protocol provides us with a stronger roadmap. Now it is our responsibility to bring it to life, not on paper, but in hospitals, in police stations, in courts, in schools, in villages, in settlements, and in every place where a survivor reaches out for help.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran says the revised protocol is a major step towards ensuring every survivor receives timely, coordinated and survivor-centered support.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 13:09:01","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Medical Services Pacific says no survivor of gender-based violence should face recovery alone as Fiji launched the revised National Service Delivery Protocol for Responding to Cases of Gender-Based Violence.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":788615,"headline":"Research needed to address labour challenges","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/research-needed-to-address-labour-challenges\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Yvonne Ravula","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"yvonne.ravula@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/yr-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"July 17, 2026 1:03 pm","unix_time":1784293380,"iso_time":"2026-07-17T13:03:14+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/research.png","content":" The labour market challenges cannot be solved without policies backed by research and reliable data, according to business and development experts.<\/p>\n They say a stronger focus on evidence-based decision-making is needed to address ongoing issues, including skills shortages, labour migration and low workforce participation.<\/p>\n International Development Specialist Naren Prasad says labour policies must reflect real challenges faced by the country rather than assumptions.<\/p>\n \u201cHow can we use research, how can we use data, how can we use best practices to inform our decisions that are sound and reflect reality rather than opinion-based policies or ideological-based policies.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Prasad says collaboration between government, academia and the private sector will be critical in developing policies that address workforce needs and improve participation.<\/p>\n He adds that particular attention is also needed to increase women\u2019s participation in the labour force, which remains below international standards.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-07-17 12:51:06","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The labour market challenges cannot be solved without policies backed by research and reliable data, according to business and development experts.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}]}