The Native Land Trust Board would like to issue the following statement to correct the many misquoted reports made by the news media recently, in relation to the leasing of the hospital site at Koromumu, Nasigatoka and its renewal.
1. The land, which is owned by the Mataqali Leweinadroga of Nasama Village, Nasigatoka, Nadroga, was originally leased for a term of 99 years from the 31st day of December 1903 and has expired on the 30th of December 2002.
2. Before the expiry of the lease, negotiations were made between the landowners and representatives of both the Lands Department and the Native Land Trust Board for the renewal of the lease because of its significant importance in as far as health services in the Province of Nadroga/Navosa is concerned.
3. After various meetings, an offer for the renewal of the lease was made to the Lands Department, subject to dereservation, on the following general terms and conditions:
Ø Area - 15 acres 3 roods 18.5 perches
Ø Term - 99 years as from January 1, 2003
Ø Premium - $200,000.00
Ø Rent - $10,000.00 (Subject to review after every 5 years)
4. The Board has assessed the market rent of the land as between $50,000.00 and $60,000.00 per annum and since we have asked for an upfront payment (premium) of $200,000.00, the rent has therefore been reduced to $10,000.00 per annum, and will be reviewed after 5 years time.
5. There is clear indication that the Lands Department has accepted the offer for the renewal of the lease based on the above terms.
6. On the demand by members of the landowning unit for the goodwill payment of $700,000.00, the Board wishes to state that it is not a party to the claim.
