Speaker and Parliamentary staff participated in the ‘Plant A Tree’ initiative

The Speaker of Parliament, His Excellency Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau took part in a ‘Plant a Tree’ programme yesterday to celebrate Fiji’s 50th years of Independence.

The event was held along the Rewa River Bank where 50 trees were planted by Parliamentary staff headed by the Speaker. The event was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Forestry and the Nausori Town Council.

According to the Conservator of Forests, Ms Sanjana Lal, it was an honor to have the Speaker demonstrating this passion in mitigating climate change.

“The Speaker in his contribution to the nation personally has demonstrated this passion and stand on climate change mitigation and adaptation through tree planting.

“To lead staff of Parliament in contributing towards building up to the Fiji 50th Independence Anniversary by planting trees to mark the festive day and considering his age, he’s still into tree planting and active physical activities.

“This event also promotes 30 Million Trees in 15 Years initiative by Government and to promote the tree planting message to the people of Fiji.”

“Organizations across Fiji are encouraged to participate and showcase their patriotism, first by being part of this build up and secondly by planting 50 trees to mark the occasion.

“Showing their commitment to planting trees for the future and for an independent Fiji, portrays the independent spirit of trees as they soar towards the skies,” Ms Lal said.

She also explained why the Rewa River bank was chosen for this tree planting exercise.

“The banks of the Rewa River have been eroding slowly over time.  Planting in this spot was efforts from the Nausori Town Council to try and restore trees in the river banks to minimize erosion and avoid flooding in years to come.”

The Ministry of Forests has been coordinating tree planting as a build up to the Fiji 50th Independence Anniversary.

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