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\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par APPELLATE JURISDICTION
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 BETWEEN:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222\charrsid1535222 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 FIJI BUS OPERATORS\rquote  ASSOCIATION
\par LATCHAN\rquote S EXPRESS SERVICE LIMITED
\par TEBARA TRANSPORT LIMITED
\par ISLAND BUS LIMITED
\par SUNBEAM TRANSPORT LIMITED and
\par TACIRUA TRANSPORT COMPANY LIMITED
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Appellants
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\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222\charrsid1535222 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY
\par JINESH PRASAD & 25 OTHERS
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Respondents
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Mr. V. Kapadia}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222\charrsid1535222  - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Counsel for Appellants
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222\charrsid1535222 Mr. J. Apted - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Counsel for 1st Respondent
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222\charrsid1535222 In Person - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 2nd Respondent
\par 
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\par At the outset I must apologize to the parties for the delay in delivering the judgment.
\par 
\par This is an appeal from the decision of the Lands Transport Appeals Tribunal dated 19th December 2001 by the appellants Fiji Bus Operators Association and others.
\par 
\par The appeal arises under the provisions of the recently enacted Land Transport Act 1998 and Land Transport (Amendment) Act 1999 which replaced the Traffic Act and brought about certain changes to the traffic laws.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 One of the major changes was the introduction of permits for mini buses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The second respondents had applied for mini bus permits to the Land Transport Authority, which, despite objections from the appellants granted permits to the twenty}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 six respondents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellants appealed to the Land Transport Appeals Tribunal under the provisio
ns of Section 45 of the Land Transport Act which permits appeals against the decision of the Authority to the Appeals Tribunal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Appeals Tribunal dismissed the appeal and refused to set aside the grant of mini bus permits to the twenty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 six respondents.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
This appeal is against the decision of the Appeals Tribunal refusing to set aside the mini bus permits issued by the Land Transport Authority.
\par 
\par This appeal is confined to errors of law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Section 48 of the Land Transport Act, which allows appeals from the de
cision of the Appeals Tribunal, reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
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\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 A decision of the Tribunal shall be subject to an appeal, only on points of law, to the High Court.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Therefore the appeal is limited in its scope to points of law only.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In explaining what is the meaning of }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 points of law}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  Lord Denning in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 INSTRUMATIC LTD. v.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 SUPABRASE LTD}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 . 1969 2 ALL E.R. 131 at page 132 remarked as follows}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There are many tribunals from which an appeal lies only on a }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 point of law}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
; and we always interpret the provision widely and liberally.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In mo
st of the cases the tribunal finds the primary facts (which cannot be challenged on appeal); and the question at issue is what is the proper inference from those facts.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In such cases, if a tribunal draws an inference, which cannot reasonably be drawn, it errs on point of law, and its decision can be reviewed by the courts.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 That was settled, once and for all, in EDWARDS (Inspector of Taxes) v. BAIRSTOW 1955 3 ALL E.R. 48.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In other cases the question is whether, given the primary facts, the tribunal rightly exercised its discretion.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
In such cases, if the tribunal exercises its discretion is a way which is plainly wrong, it errs on point of law, and its decision can be reviewed by the courts.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
So Lord Denning sees matters on points of law arising in two circumstances; namely, drawing of improper inferences from primary facts and exercise of discretion which is plainly wrong in light of primary facts.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The Supreme Court of Australia, Northern Territory gave a more detailed and helpful approach to the consideration of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
point of law}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 in }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 WILSON v.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 LOWERY }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 1893 110 F.L.R. 142.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The authorities have been conveniently summarized \'85 We venture to repeat them}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In the process of arriving at an ultimate conclusion a trial judge goes though a number of stages.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The first stage is to find the preliminary facts.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 This may involve the evaluation of witnesses who gave conflicting accounts as to those facts.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 If the trial judge prefers one account to another, that decision is a question of fact to be determined by him and is not reviewable on appeal.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It may be that the reason given for preferring one witness to another is patently wrong.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Nevertheless, no appeal lies.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Regardless of the trial judge\rquote 
s reasons, if there is evidence which, if believed, would support the finding, there is no error of law.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
If, on the other hand, there is no evidence to support a finding of fact which is crucial to an ultimate finding that the case fell within the words of the statute \'85 there is an error of law.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 But, a finding of fact cannot be disturbed on the basis that it is \lquote perverse\rquote , or \lquote 
against the evidence or the weight of the evidence or contrary to the overwhelming weight of evidence\rquote .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Nor may this Court review a finding of fact merely because it is alleged to ignore the probative force of evidenc
e which is all one way, even if no reasonable person could have arrived at the decision made, and even if the reasoning was demonstrably unsound}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Haines v. Leves }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
(1987) 8 N.S.W. L.R. 442 at 479}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 470.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The second stage is the drawing of inferences by the tri
al judge from the primary facts to arrive at secondary facts.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
This is subject to the same limitations that apply to primary facts.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 6.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
If there are no primary facts upon which a secondary fact could be inferred, and the secondary fact is crucial to the ultimate finding as to whether or not the case fell within the words of the statute, there is an error of law.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 If there are primary facts upon which a secondary fact might be inferred, there is no error of law.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 7.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It is not sufficient that an appellate court would have drawn a different inference from those facts.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The question is, whether there were facts upon which the inference might be drawn.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 If a tribunal draws an inference which cannot reasonably be drawn, it errs in point of law and its decision can be review
ed by the courts}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Instrumatic Ltd. v. Supabrase Ltd}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 . [1969] 1 W.L.R. 519 at 521; [1969] 2 ALL E.R. 131 at 132, Lord Denning MR, with whom Edmund Davies LJ and Phillimore LJ agreed; }{
\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Edwards (Inspector of Taxes) v. Bairstow}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  [1956] A.C. 1.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant filed nine (9) grounds of appeal.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Grounds 1 and 2 which were argued together are as follows}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 1.\tab 
The Land Transport Appeals Tribunal (The Tribunal) erred in law in not holding that in respect of the SUVA/NAUSORI mini bus permit applications the condition tha
t the first trip drop passengers at Walu Bay, Civic Centre and Government Buildings is in breach of the Land Transport Authority Act (the Act) and of the Land Transport (Public Service Vehicles) Regulations (the Regulations) in that no mini bus stands or 
bases have ever been gazetted for these areas, no particular place specified and the condition in itself impossible to police.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 2.\tab 
The Tribunal erred in law in holding at paragraph 28 that the Land Transport Authority (the Authority) was entitled to infer t
hat the people who would travel daily from Nausori to work in Suva would prefer to get off their transport closest to the place of work, rather than being obliged to disembark only at Raiwaqa Market car park when such inference cannot be drawn from the fa
cts as there are good reasons for no gazetted mini bus stands at Walu Bay, Civic Centre and Government Buildings as a result of which no mini bus can stop at those places.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Even though the above two grounds of appeal refer only to three places that is Walu Bay, Civic Centre and Government Buildings, the appellants written submissions referred also to Nadi Airport, Nadi, Sigatoka, Vatoa and Nabale.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant submitted that the Authority in allowing passengers to be dropped at Walu Bay, Civic Centre and G
overnment Buildings by the mini buses and in allowing mini buses to pick and drop passengers at Nadi Airport, Sigatoka, Vatoa and Nabale acted in contravention of Regulations 47.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant submitted that since various places were not gazetted as bases 
or stands, the grant of permit allowing the mini buses to pick and drop passengers from these points breaches Regulation 47.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Traffic Act that has been repealed by the Land Transport Act did not provide for mini bus permits.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There was no provision for mini bus permits under the Land Transport 1998.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Provision for mini bus permits was brought about by the Land Transport (Amendment) Act 1999 being Act number 27 of 1999.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It amended Section 65 of the Land Transport Act by adding a new paragraph (e) to Section 65(2).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Section 65(2)(e) enables a person to apply to the Authority for a }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 mini bus permit which authorizes the use of a vehicle licensed as a mini bus, subject to this Act and licence and permit conditions, to ply or stand for hire in a base for which it
 is issued, or from an approved stand outside that base, for the carriage of passengers within, from or to that base.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
A mini bus licence can only be issued for a motor vehicle equipped to carry not less than eight nor more than fifteen persons excluding the driver \endash  Section 63(3)(e) as amended by the Land Transport (Amendment) Act 27 of 1999.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par For sake of completeness, other forms of public service permits, which may be issued under Section 63(3), are}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 1.
\tab taxi permit where the vehicle must be equipped to carry not less than four nor more than five persons excluding the driver.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 2.
\tab Rental permit where vehicle must be equipped to carry no more than eight persons excluding the driver.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 3.
\tab a hire vehicle permit where the vehicle must be equipped to carry not less than four nor more than eight persons excluding the driver.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart4\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
a road service permit where the vehicle an omnibus is equipped to carry not less than sixteen persons excluding the driver.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart4\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 a road service permit for carriers designed to carry both goods 
and passengers but passengers sit in a different compartment from that of the driver.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The passenger capacity for mini bus is therefore confined to between the maximum capacity for rental permit or hire permit and minimum capacity of an omnibus that is a mid range capacity.
\par 
\par The legislature it appears had deemed it fit to provide for different types of public service permits with varying capacities to provide for effective road transport in Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There are variations to the way in which these holders of such permits can operate their vehicles.
\par 
\par The appellants submit that Regulation 47 of the Land Transport (Public Service Vehicles) Regulations 2000 had been breached by the Authority in allowing mini bus operators to drop passengers in three stipulated places
 namely Walu Bay, Civic Centre and Government Buildings.
\par 
\par Regulation 47 reads as follows}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 1.\tab 
A mini bus must not \endash 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
stand or ply for hire from a point other than a stand or base from which it is authorized to operate;
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 stop }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
to pick}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  up a passenger within 300m of a bus stop, bus stand or taxi stand except from a stand from which the mini bus is authorized to operate;
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
stop in any place which would create a hazard to passengers, pedestrians or other road users or delay other traffic;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 2.\tab Subject to sub}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 regulation (1)(b), a mini bus may stop for the purpose of picking up a passenger at a place while \endash 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls9\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls9\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 travelling to its terminus stand;
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls9\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls9\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
returning to its original stand which the mini bus is authorized to operate under the conditions of its mini bus permit.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Regulation 49(2) also deals with picking and dropping of passengers.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
A driver of a mini bus may pick up or set down passengers }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 along the route specified in the permit}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Section 49(2) allows a mini bus to pick and drop passengers along the defined route specified in the permit.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
There are certain restriction placed on this general permission by virtue of Section 47 of the Regulation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 A mini bus cannot }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 pick}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  passengers from within 300 metres of a bus stand, bus stop or taxi stand unless the mini bus sta
nd is located within that 300 metre zone.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Hence within the 300}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 metre zone a mini bus cannot pick a passenger even if a passenger hails it to stop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 On the other hand it may stop to drop a passenger within the 300}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 metre zone provided Regulation 47(c) is not breached in that no obstruction is caused.
\par 
\par The appellants\rquote  submission in concluding that mini buses can operate so that they may only drop passengers at a stand or base from which the mini bus is authorized to operate ignores the provisions of Section 49(2) of the Regulation altogether.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Regulations 47 to 49 must be read together to see what is allowed and what is not.
\par 
\par Regulation 47(a) deals with actively soliciting.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
A mini bus can only solicit for business from the allocated stand, the starting point of its journey.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
It cannot do that once it has moved from its stand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 En}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 route it can only stop to pick a passenger if hailed by a passenger subject to Regulation 47(b) and (c).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It cannot wander away from its defined route in search of passengers.
\par 
\par It is clear from Regulation 7(1)(d) of Land Transport (Public Service Regulations) 2000 that the authority has powers to impose conditions in addition to those prescribed by Regulations for convenience of the public.
\par 
\par Regulation 7(1)(d) reads as follows}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In addition 
to the conditions prescribed in respect of permits, either generally or in particular cases or classes of cases, the Authority when issuing a permit may impose any condition or restriction the Authority thinks fit on matters that the Authority is required
 to have regard to when considering applications for permits and in particular for ensuring that \endash 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 (d)\tab \'85}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  
}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 any time tables to be observed and any picking up or setting down places to be used in the service carried on under the permit comply with any requirements the Authority specifies;

\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 and generally for securing the safety and convenience of the public.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The power granted under Regulation 7 is fairly broad and discretionary.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The words are}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 may impose}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Convenience of public would be best served by travell
ing public or workers being dropped off as close as possible to the place of work instead of being dropped off at Raiwaqa and thus having to catch another transport which would be both a waste of time and money.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The Tribunal in its decision at paragraph 28 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 said }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
that the several thousand who traveled from Nausori daily to work in Suva would much prefer to get off their transport closest to their place of work}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
This is axiomatic and it is also in harmony with the spirit of Section 8(1)(b) of the Act as the Tribunal ruled and also Regu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 lation 7(1)(d) as stated above.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par Section 8(1)(b) of the Act says one of the functions of the Authority is to ensure road transport passenger services }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 adequate}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  to meet requirements of the public.
\par 
\par It is obvious that the public requires transport system which can take them closest to their place of works in the cheapest form with minimum loss of time.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Further when one looks at the composition of the Authority it can be noted that these are people who have knowledge of matters in 
the field of transport and they may well have used that knowledge and expertise to reach certain conclusions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The composition of the authority, which is subject of Section 7 of the Act, requires the Minister among others to appoint five members }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 who in his opinion have experience and expertise in the areas covered by the functions of the Authority}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .
\par 
\par A specialized Tribunal with members who possess particular skills and knowledge has a distinct advantage over courts, which may be unfamiliar with circumstances prevailing in that particular field.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 That is a strong factor to bear in mind and courts are generally reluctant to interfere with conclusions of such tribunals.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 This is probably the reason why appeals from the Land Transport Appeals Tribunal are confined to points of law.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The appellant further submitted that the words }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 base}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  and }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 stand}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  are used interchangeably.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The word }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 base}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  is not defined in the Land Transport Act or the Regulations.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It was, however, defined in the Traffic (Taxis and Rental Cars) Regulation which have now been repealed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Section 2 of those regulations defined }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 base}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  as an }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 area specified in a permit granted in respect of a motor vehicle, from or within which such motor vehicle is authorized to operate.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The word }{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 stand}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
 is defined in the Land Transport Act in respect of taxi but not for mini buses.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Section 2 of the Land Transport Act says \endash 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Stand when used in relation to a parking place for taxis means a parking area provided by the appropriate council or rural local authority or highway authority for use by taxis.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Neither term is defined in the Act for the purposes of a mini bus.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
However, looking at Section 65(2)(b) of the Act it appears that the two words are not synonymous.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Section 65(2)(e) refers to }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 carriage of passengers }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 within}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 , from, or to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 that base.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
If base and stand were interchangeable terms, then one may ask the question how does one carry passengers within a stand?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Would a passenger ever take a ride }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 within}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  a stand?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The section also talks of approved stand }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 outside}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  that base.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The only logical conclusion one can draw from this is that the terms are not interchangeable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Base is a much wider concept in terms of area covered than a stand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
A stand is a specific location outside the base whereas a base is a general area.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The inte
rpretation placed upon these words by the first respondent is the correct one.
\par 
\par The Authority may therefore allow a mini bus to ply for hire from two different places namely from the base or from an approved stand outside that base for carriage of passengers to that base or vice versa.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s1\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel0\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\f1\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 GAZETTING OF BASES AND STANDS
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant further submitted that since the bases or stands for Walu Bay, Gove}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 rnment Buildings and Civic Cent}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 r}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 e}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
 were not gazetted, both the Authority and the Tribunal acted in breach of Section 65(2)(e) and Regulation 47.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Authority and the Tribunal only permitted the mini bus operators to drop passengers on the first trip at these points and not to ply for hire from there.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 These drop off points are not a stand so there is no need to gazette.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The same principles apply to the permits granted to mini buses to pick and drop passengers at Nadi Airport, Sigatoka, Vatoa and Nabala.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal was therefore correct in upholding that there was no need to gazette these nor is there any restriction on picking passengers who hail a mini bus en}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 route in view of Section 49(2).
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The appellants further submitted that bases and stands must be gazetted before permits are issued.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
There is no section in the Act which requires that bases and stands be gazetted before mini bus permits may be issued.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
In sharp contrast Section 3(5) of the Regulation forbids the Authority from dealing with taxi permits unless an }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
applicant provides a written notification from the appropriate council or rural local authority stating the taxi stand to be used if the application is approved.}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Section 113 of the Act gives the Minister power to make regulations.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 He consults the Authority before making regulations.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 He has discretion in making regulation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The key words are }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 may make}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  regulations.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The relevant provisions for purposes of this appeal are contained in Section 113(4)(d) and (q), which read as follows}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-1440\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 S.113(4)}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \tab }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Minister, after consultation with the Authority, may make regulations necessary to give effect to the provisions of this Act.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 (d)\tab 
prescribe the requirements to be fulfilled and the conditions to be observed by the owners of public service vehicles and holders of public service permits and persons employed in relation thereto and regulate the conduct of such persons 
in carrying out their duties;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (q)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls10\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart17\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls10\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
prescribe routes, bases, and other local divisions of the Fiji Islands or any part of them to be serviced by public service vehicles.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Mr. Kapadia further submitted that by virtue of Section 107 of the Local Government Act all streets within the City of Suva are vested in the Council.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There are by}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 laws for buses and taxis.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Mr. Kapadia further submitted that the Authority in allowing drop off points acted contrary to advice given to it by the Traffic and Public Transport Committee of S}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 uva City Council to the effect.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-1440\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Land Transport Authority be advised that there should not be any other pick up or drop off points at any other areas within the City of Suva except as specified above.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \fi-1440\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 One would expect that in normal course 
the Land Transport Authority would act in close consultation with the City Council.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 However, it has not done so.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
In doing so the Land Transport Authority has acted in contravention of the resolution of the Council but that does not render the grant of permits to mini bus operators illegal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It would be grossly unfair to take away permits for that reason.
\par }\pard \ql \fi-1440\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
I find no error of law in the reasoning of the Tribunal in respect of grounds 1 and 2.
\par }\pard \ql \fi-1440\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Grounds 3 and 8 were argued together.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Ground 3 of appeal is \endash 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-11\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The
 Tribunal erred in law in not holding that the Authority had acted in breach of the Act and the Regulations made thereunder in granting mini bus permits between Suva/Lautoka when no mini bus stands or bases had been gazetted for Sigatoka, Nadi and Nadi Ai
rport as required by Regulation 47 of the Regulation.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Ground 8 reads \endash 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-11\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Tribunal erred in Law}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
in not holding that the Authority had acted improperly, unfairly, arbitrarily, unjustly and in contravention of the Act and the regulations made there under
 when it failed to hold that in the absence of gazetted mini bus stands and bases between Suva and Nausori and between Suva/Navua, Navua/Sigatoka, Sigatoka/Nadi, Nadi/Nadi Airport, Nadi Airport/Lautoka, Korovou/Nausori and Nabaka Village/Lami that the min
i
 bus permits holders would act in breach of the Act and the Regulations by picking up and dropping passengers between these areas in contravention of the Act and Regulations which would be impossible to police and which would be wasteful competition with 
bus operators in the same sphere as prescribed in Regulations 5(1)(b) and 7(1)(c) of the Regulations.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Ground 3 of appeal is that mini bus permits granted for Suva and Lautoka were done in contravention of the Act and Regulation as no stands had been gazetted and therefore Regulation 47 was contravened.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 
 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellants\rquote  submissions suffer from confusion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Regulation 47 does not deal with issue or grant of permits to mini buses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
It is designed to control behaviour or conduct of mini bus drivers after a permit has been granted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
In the event Regulation 47 is breached there is penalty provided for it under Section 58 of the Regulations.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The offending persons can be charged.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The fear that people might breach the law is not reason enough to deny grant of licence.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Wo
uld anyone suggest that because some drivers fail to obey traffic rules is reason enough not to grant drivers licence to anyone else.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s7\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel6\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\b\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 GROUND 8
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant submitted that the grant of mini bus permits was wasteful competition with omni buses operating b
etween Suva and Nausori and Suva and Lautoka and in doing this the Authority ignored the effect of proposed service on other public service vehicle operators \endash  Regulation 5(1)(b) and wasteful competition with alternative form of transport \endash 
 Regulation 7(1)(c).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The appellants submit that there was enough capacity on the omni buses on these routes and there was no survey done on demand for mini buses.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Regulation 5 deals with factors, which the authority must consider.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The section, however, does not provide a
n exhaustive list of factors.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It also enables the authority to consider }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}
{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 any matter it thinks fit}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
 with a special attention to the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 checklist}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
Any one of these factors is by itself not reason enough to grant or refuse a permit.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 All the factors must be con
sidered both individually and collectively and then overall effect assessed and the Authority then in exercise of its deliberate judgment may or may not grant a permit.
\par 
\par Further the regulations must not be considered in isolation either.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 One of the functio
ns of the Authority is to ensure the provisions of road transport passenger services }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 adequate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
 for the requirements of the public \endash  section 8(1)(b) of the Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
It is only after considering all these matters the Authority reaches its decision.
\par 
\par The appellant
 submitted that the Authority acted inconsistently in refusing express service between Suva and Nausori for omnibus on grounds that there was no need and on the other hand granting mini bus permits which is really an express service on grounds that there 
was a need.
\par 
\par The issue is not one of competition but of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 wasteful}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222  competition}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It is more than the issue of availability of seats.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There may be empty seat on buses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
However, there may not be demand for bus seats.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The proper question to ask is what type of demand is there \endash 
 demand for seats on omnibuses or demand for seats on mini buses.
\par 
\par The Tribunal too expressed concern in his ruling about this inconsistency but said,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 I am conscious of another factor: that the authority was dealing with permits for mini 
buses that were already operating as public service vehicles, albeit illegally making new operations legitimate did not add to capacity}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
In other words the Tribunal considered that there was a need but it was taken care of by a form of illegal operations of mini buses.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The fact that the Tribunal agreed with appellants concern at the Authority\rquote s inconsistent decisions did not mean the Tribunal ought to have cancelled the mini bus permits.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 If the particular bus operator was aggrieved by the refusal, it oug
ht to have appealed against the decision of the Authority to the Tribunal rather than submitting it as a ground for revoking all mini bus permits issued for Suva}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Nausori route and to prevent issue of mini bus permits on Suva/Nausori route in future. This w
ould have disastrous consequences as some mini bus operators may have bought vehicles and incurred debts in the process; people may well have left employment to concentrate on their own business of mini bus operators.
\par 
\par The Authority and the Tribunal would be well aware of the notorious fact that the mini buses had been operating illegally over the years due to demand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Faced with such a fact it could not be expected to bury its head in the sand and expect the problem to solve itself.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 In reaching its conclusions, it could take such facts into consideration.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Refusal of permits would not necessarily have released the mini bus passengers to be picked up by the buses.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal was therefore correct in its approach when considering these matters.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 These grounds therefore fail.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Grounds 4 and 5 which were argued together read as follows}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Ground 4}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \endash 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal erred in law in holding at paragraph 31 that although it was mindful of the inconsistency in the Authority refusing bus owners additional services bet
ween Suva/Nausori on the ground that there is no need and yet on the other hand granting mini bus permits between Suva and Nausori on the grounds that there is a need, but that because the mini buses were operating illegally anyway legitimising their oper
ations did not add to the capacity on the Suva/Nausori Highway.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
This finding of the Tribunal does not have any basis in any facts found by the Authority.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Ground 5}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 \endash 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal erred in law in not holding that the Authority had not carried out any load
 check reports in Nausori/Suva/Navua/Sigatoka and Nadi and that the load check reports relied upon by the Authority were mainly for areas between Suva and Nausori only and also not in respect of any alleged illegal mini bus operations and therefore no dem
onstrated need was established to the Authority for minibus services between these places.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Tribunal therefore erred in law in making assumptions at paragraphs 30 and 31 which had no basis in fact.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellant submits that the Authority failed to con
duct proper method of finding out what the needs of public are because there was no survey on number of mini buses operating between Suva and Nausori and Suva and Lautoka.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The attack is on the methodology of survey.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The appellant is saying survey reports should have been conducted at Suva and Nausori.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
An attack on the method of data collection is hardly a point of law.
\par 
\par The appellants are saying that the mini bus permits were issued without any factual basis.
\par 
\par Most of the matters which are canvassed in these two grounds have already been attended to and dealt with in earlier grounds and there is no need for the court to repeat them.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Authority may well have concluded that the experience of past years showed demand for seats on mini buses hence ground 4 and 5 fail.
\par 
\par Ground 6 of appeal reads \endash 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Tribunal erred in law in not holding that the Authority had not complied with the mandatory provisions of Regulation 6(1) of the Regulations as a result of which the Authority could not issue any mini bus permits.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Regulation 6(1) reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Authority must publish a notice in the Gazette and at least one newspaper published in the English language and circulating throughout the Fiji Islands the issue or variation of a permit but not its renewal or refusal.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 T
he Authority has failed to publish and therefore the permits must be revoked submits the appellant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Tribunal at paragraph 37 of its decision agrees that the Authority should observe the regulation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
There is no error of law on part of the Tribunal on this point.
\par 
\par The Act does not state what is the effect of failure to publish.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The duty to publish is on the Authority not upon the person to whom the permit is issued.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Regulations are also silent as to the time within which the publication must be done.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The purpose of publishing would be to inform the travelling public of the grant of permit so it knows about the lawful permit holders.
\par 
\par As earlier stated, once a permit is granted, a person may radically change his/her position in anticipation of using the permit \endash  by purchase of a vehicle often by borrowing money.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 They would hope to repay the loan from the earnings from the business.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 It would be manifestly unjust to cancel permits in such circumstances which are not of permit holders making.
\par 
\par Ground 7 reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal erred in law in holding that the Authority did not have to re}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 advertise the applications for mini bus permits when it held that the mini bus permit applications made on the basis of a fixed time table did not comply with the Act.}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Trib
unal erred in law in not holding that Regulation 4 of the Regulations makes it mandatory for the Authority to publish details of the applications which it was going to hear to enable relevant objections to be filed within 14 days thereafter and which did 
not happen.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The appellants\rquote  submission is that the original applications were on the basis of timetable but permits issued were not on basis of timetable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Therefore they submit that there was a radical change in applications and the applications ought to have been re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 advertised in terms of Regulation 4.
\par 
\par The Authority had issued permits without timetable because it was persuaded to do so as a result of submissions made by the appellants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Authority therefore issued permits on the basis of powers it considered it had.
\par 
\par The Tribunal dealt with the matter in paragraph 22, 23 and 24 of its decision.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal in paragraph 23 said:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
the appellant can scarcely argue that they were denied opportunity to have their say on any relevant issue}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal als
o correctly noted that the present applications were for new permits under Regulation 3(9) and not application for amendment under Regulation 3(8)(d).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Therefore there was no need to advertise.
\par 
\par The appellants had the opportunity to be heard; they made their submissions, and some of their submissions were adopted by the Authority like the timetable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Little purpose would be served in re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
advertising and hearing the same arguments once again.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The appellants\rquote 
 arguments are based on speculation that there may be others out there who might object if there is re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
advertisement without timetable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The issue is have the appellants been denied a hearing.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There was no need to re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 advertise simply because the Authority intended to issue permits with no fixed timetable to comply with the law.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s7\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel6\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\b\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 ISSUE OF COSTS
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 Ground 9 of Appeal is as follows}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1535222 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The Tribunal erred in law in awarding costs against the Appellants when important and substantial grounds of Appeal had been filed as this was the first occasion such an application wa
s heard by the Authority and the Tribunal under the Act and there was no reasonable or just basis for awarding costs against the Appellants.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222 '}{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par Award of costs is a discretionary matter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 A successful party is generally allowed costs and there must be very st
rong reasons before a court or Tribunal will depart from such practice.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The appellant submits that the novelty of proceedings is a good reason to depart from normal practice.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
The Tribunal considered otherwise.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 There is no point of law involved so this ground fails.
\par }\pard\plain \s7\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel6\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
It is crucial for the parties to appreciate the proper approach which this court can take when the decision of the Tribunal is challenged.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 This court\rquote s function is limited to review the decision of the tribunal in order to determine whether a question of law arose from them.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
If proceedings were conducted and decided in accordance with the law then this court is not entitled to interfere with the decision even if it concluded that it might have conducted and decided the case differently.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535222  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 The parties must resist any attempt to present appeals on facts as raising points of law. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par The appeal is therefore dismissed with costs to be taxed if not agreed.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14697624 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid14697624 \{ Jiten Singh \}
\par JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
\par }\pard\plain \s8\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel7\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 
At Suva
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1535222 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14697624\charrsid1535222 November 2002
\par }}