08 MARCH 1, <strong>2019</strong> Fijilink Rotuman Language classes in Auckland Supplied Content The Rotuman Community in Auckland has announced commencement of Rotuman Language Classes, marking the ‘International Mother Language Day,’ observed throughout the world on February 21, <strong>2019</strong> as a United Nations approved programme. Organised by the Auckland Rotuman Fellowship Group Incorporated (ARFGI), the endangered Rotuman language is being taught by elders and qualified teachers. Chairperson Faga Fasala said, “We took the initiative using our own funds and resources, to move things forward and help save our unique language.” The Language Classes, which are free, open to everyone including Non-Rotumans will be held every Saturday from 6 pm at the Fickling Convention Centre in Three Kings, Mount Albert Road, Auckland. “Language is what makes us who we are and is part of our culture and identity. It is our duty to preserve this invaluable taonga,” Mr Fasala said. ARFGI is also hosting the ‘Rotuman Language Week <strong>2019</strong> in Auckland from May 12 to May 19, <strong>2019</strong>. About Rotumans Rotuman people are a separate ethnic group with their own distinct language, culture and identity, and originate from the Polynesian Island of Rotuma. Rotuma consists of the island of Rotuma and its nearby islets and is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about 500 kms north of Fiji, and 500 kms west of Wallis & Futuna. The British annexed Rotuma on May 13, 1881 (‘Rotuma Day’). Although a nation by itself, Rotuma is currently administered by Fiji as a dependency. Endangered Language The Rotuman language is currently listed on the UNESCO List of Endangered Languages as “Vulnerable.” Rotuma is described as ‘Untouched Paradise’ with some of the world’s most pristine and beautiful beaches. For information, please contact AREFGI President George Nonu on 021-08792415 or Deputy Secretary Jioji Vai on 021-02782216. Email: info@ rotuma.website, Budget consultations next week The Ministry of Economy will host online national budget consultations from next week. In a statement, Economy Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum expressed the need to bring the voices of Fijians to the decision-making table to keep building the Best National Budget. For the first time, there will be online consultations on Facebook, with special sessions dedicated to secondary students, tertiary students and the public. The theme will be ‘Your Voice, Rachel Nath Big supermarkets such as Cost U Less, Morris Hedstrom and Shop and Save are facing charges arising from alleged unethical practices. FBC News is able to reveal the names of 24 traders facing charges of alleged unscrupulous business practices. The comprehensive investigation was carried out by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC). Other Retailers Other retailers include Melbourne Works Limited, Automart Limited, Novel Distributor Limited, MS Rao Design Services, Laia Electrical Contractors, Ahards Shopping Center, Harrisons and Vision Investment Limited along with Seaqaqa Shopping Centre. Seven individuals, including Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum Retailers face charges of misconduct FCCC Chief Executive Joel Abraham People’s Community Network Director Semiti Qalowasa has also been charged. The Charges The charges involve a number of offenses, such as engaging in Unconscionable Conduct, Accepting Payment and Failing to Supply as Ordered, Deceptive Conduct, as well as False and Misleading Representation. Other areas of concern are Failing to Display Prices on Price-Controlled Your Budget, Your Future.’ During these three online sessions, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum will respond directly to questions under clearly identified posts on the designated Facebook Page account. Secondary school students will have their session on <strong>March</strong> 5, <strong>2019</strong> from 12 pm to 3 pm. Tertiary school students can participate on <strong>March</strong> 6, <strong>2019</strong> from 5 pm to 8 pm. Online consultations for the public will be held <strong>March</strong> 7, <strong>2019</strong> from 5 pm to 9 pm. Under Special Arrangement with Fiji Broadcasting Corporation and Non-Price Controlled Goods, Overcharging, Failing to Keep Proper Records, Illegal rent increases and Failing to Furnish Information. Chief Executive Joel Abraham said that FCCC has warned traders against such unethical practices on several occasions in the past. However, a handful of unscrupulous retailers in the market continue to take advantage of vulnerable customers, he said. “Some traders argue that they were unaware of the provisions in the law. We reject this excuse. ignorance of the law is no defence and strict enforcement should act as a deterrent in the future,” he said. The FCCC has also reminded shoppers to report any unfair trade practices. Rachel Nath is Multimedia Journalist at Fiji Broadcasting Corporation. The above Report has been published under a Special Arrangement with FCCC. Maungakiekie Office Level 1, Crighton House, 100 Neilson Street, Onehunga (entrance from Galway Street) Open weekdays 9am-5pm (09) 622-2660 Priyanca@parliament.govt.nz Please call to make an appointment before coming into the office Bringing NewZealand HeartSpecialists to Fiji facebook.com/priyancanzlp @priyancanzlp @priyancanzlp www.neighbourly.co.nz/business/priyanca-radhakrishnan-mp ● Specialist Consultations ● Exercise Treadmill Test ● Echocardiography (Echo) ● Angiography ● Electrocardiogram (ECG) ● Angioplasty (Stenting) 12 Commercial Street, Namaka, Nadi Authorised by Priyanca Radhakrishnan, 100 Neilson Street, Onehunga
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