An artist’s impression of the five-star integrated resort and casino originally planned on Denarau Island in Nadi.
By JYOTI PRATIBHA
Fiji’s first casino which was to be built on Denarau Island in Nadi will now be built at a different location, it was disclosed yesterday.
Also, a final extension of one week has been given to casino developer One Hundred Sands Limited to finalise arrangements.
Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum yesterday confirmed that the developers had sought a final extension of one week, which Government has approved.
“They have requested for an extension to the deadline. They have been given another week, until the end of next week to commence construction.
“They have also requested that they change the site where the casino will be built. So, we have given them that approval as well.”
The new site is believed to be closed to Denarau Island.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the delays faced by the developers were partly due to unfavourable image of Fiji being portrayed overseas by some people.
“They have had some challenges in respect to some of the information that has been given out from various institutions from Fiji.”
This wrong information, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said obstructed the company in raising funds.
He said wrong information about Fiji was being given by some lawyers and financial institutions.
“But not withstanding that fact that we are quite keen to ensure that the project does commence but we also have our limitations in terms of time constraints.
“We have given them the extension and if they don’t agree to it, we will obviously have to rethink the way forward, in terms of whether we call for new tenders and expressions of interest.”