Opposition MP Jese Saukuru has called on the government to consider increasing the shares of the Pine Landowners held in Trust by the Fiji Pine Trust at Fiji Pine Limited.

During his maiden speech, Saukuru noted this could easily be done through dividend rights to buy the redeemable shares of Fiji Pine Limited.

He adds that there is a need to review and restore traditional leaders’ share of the lease money to ensure that they are able to perform their customary roles.

He claims that for eight years, the chiefs and leaders of the Vanua have been deprived of their share of the lease money.

He has called on the Government to direct ITLTB accordingly to review the issue.

He also raised his concern about the urban drift of rural dwellers and farmers and how this affected the sector.

“I am asking government to consider the following:- offer TAX incentives for local backpacker operators that would create more employment opportunities for our rural dwellers, Incentive packages for those who wish to explore new business by developing their resources, Creating Trading Centers on the islands and highlands of Ba that will bring the services closer to the people. Improve on the shipping service to the Yasawa Group of Islands.”

He also called on Fisheries Minister Semi Koroilavesau to facilitate the construction of an ice plant for the people of Yasawa.