In marking International Volunteers Day today (4/12/09), seven volunteers assisting the Fiji Law Revision Commission project of revising and consolidating the country’s laws, an exercise that had not been done since 1985, were this morning recognized for their contribution.
Solicitor-General, Mr Christopher Pryde commended the work of the volunteers as well as other officers who also assisted in the immense project.
“They have been able to help move the project forward and we are very grateful and appreciative of their contribution,” the Solicitor-General said.
“The ceremony this morning is a recognition of the contribution that these volunteers have given to the project and also a recognition of others here today who have assisted in giving active support to the project,” Mr Pryde said.
The Solicitor-General presented certificates of recognition to Kitione Waqavonovono, Lanieta Mataigusu, Avneel Chand, Rasala Malani, Verenika Seninaitui, Mererasita Vosai and Aminio Matai today.
Amongst the invited guests were the Chief Justice, Anthony Gates and Father David Arms.
Mr Waqavonovono, Ms Mataigusu, Mr Chand and Ms Malani who have legal backgrounds were based with the Fiji Law Revision Commission whilst Ms Seninaitui, Ms Vosai and Mr Matai were based at the Government Printery and assisted in the type setting of the new consolidated laws.
The volunteers were sourced through the National Youth Service Scheme under the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
Mr Pryde explained that the volunteer system initiative by Government was established to promote volunteer work and to assist volunteers in gaining skills, knowledge and experience that would prepare them for paid employment.
Meanwhile the Solicitor-General revealed that a priority in 2010 would be the re-structuring of the Fiji Law Reform Commission. He said that in the new year he would also be looking to combine the Fiji Law Reform Commission, Fiji Law Revision Commission and the Drafting Section. Mr Pryde said that the revision exercise would also continue its work after the completion of its current project.