Fiji Sun, 23 May – Paul Jaduram, a prominent businessman in the Friendly North, has been a long-time advocate for a sea port given the logistical difficulties of tourists getting into Labasa, especially with airfares.
He is optimistic that new tourism projects and potential for more growth will prompt the construction of an international sea port in Labasa. Mr Jaduram owns the Hotel Northwinds and Northwinds Plaza in Labasa. He is also the president of the Labasa Tourism Association (LTA).
“Labasa has been neglected for many years especially in the tourism sector and we have asked previous governments for an international port of entry or marina in Labasa similar to what we have in Suva, Denarau or Savusavu,” Mr Jaduram said.
Mr Jaduran believes that infrastructure must be in place to promote products and services.
“Labasa definitely needs a sea port,” he said.
Mr Jaduram said Labasa must have facilities available to cater for international tourists to ensure the growth of the industry and Government has promised LTA they were going to build one in Tabia. Tabia is about a 20 minute drive from Labasa Town. Labasa has hosted cruise ships at Malau port that traditionally caters industrial traffic.
“I am confident the economy of Labasa will continue to grow as we have been in the industry for many years and we know that growth is there. Without an international port of entry, tourism sector will not reach its full potential growth. I have been in the business for so long and it has been year after year we have been requesting and highlighting the need to have port of entry in Macuata Province. There are products they will services available and lot of development happening in Labasa Town and around. While people are investing in setting up businesses here in the North, I strongly feel that Government should now consider our plight to have an international port of entry. Once this happens everyone including villagers will benefit. They will sell their handicraft and at the same time promote their cultural aspects of living. Without infrastructure it is difficult expect quicker economic growth in Vanua Levu.”
Mr Jaduram believes that once infrastructure is put in place, there will be an economic boom at the North’s biggest municipality. He said the tourism sector Vanua Levu had a lot to offer but opportunities went begging because of lack of infrastructure. “Hence, I am requesting this present Government to look into our request,” he said.
Commissioner Northern Jovesa Vocea said he understood a lot of requests and submissions have been made for the building of a sea port near Labasa town.
“Research has been done to determine where to have the international port of entry whether in Malau or Tabia in Labasa or in Savusavu,” Mr Vocea said. Port of Malau is primarily a molasses port facility with deep water anchorage and berthing. “I cannot confirm as when this development will take place as we are waiting for the budget announcement to be made next month,” he said.
