Suva City Council is owed $37.958 million in total rates and rent arrears as of September 30 this year, and now plans to introduce a “Name and Shame” initiative, publicly revealing defaulters who have not paid his dues.

This was highlighted today before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Affairs, where Suva City Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Tevita Boseiwaqa emphasized the urgency of addressing the significant financial burden created by unpaid fees.

Boseiwaqa says these delays are affecting Council’s ability to maintain essential services such as rubbish collection, drainage maintenance and park improvements.

Additionally, it says the Council has identified 123 vacant lots in various districts with substantial arrears, totaling more than $2.27 million.

Freehold leases make up the majority of unpaid fees, representing a significant financial concern for the Council.

In an interview with Fijivillage News, Boseiwaqa says the Council will implement its approach cautiously.

It says they will give defaulters a fair chance to clear their debts and if there is no improvement, they will proceed to publish their names, emphasizing that this step will be a last resort.

It says defaulters are encouraged to come forward and negotiate installment plans or waivers if they are struggling.

Furthermore, he says the “Name and Shame” initiative is expected to be launched by the end of the year, sending a strong message to taxpayers that failure to clear outstanding arrears will not go unnoticed.