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\widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow0\jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot2894929 \fet0\sectd \linex0\endnhere\titlepg\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\header \pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\pvpara\phmrg\posxc\posy0\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\field{\*\fldinst {\cs17\insrsid10249166 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\cs17\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid10249166 6}}}{\cs17\insrsid10249166 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\insrsid10249166 \par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par CIVIL JURISDICTION \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 JUDICIAL REVIEW NO. }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 HBJ000}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 8 OF 2004 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Between: \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 STATE \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 v. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 PUBLIC SERVICE APPEAL BOARD \par MINISTRY OF EDUCATION \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Respondents \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Ex}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929\charrsid2894929 }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 parte:}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929\charrsid2894929 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 JULIA NALOMA}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par Applicant \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par Mr. R. P. Singh for the Applicant \par No Appearance for the 1st Respondent \par Mr. J. Raikadroka for the 2nd Respondent \par \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par Further to leave and stay granted herein, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Julia Naloma}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (the \lquote }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 applicant}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \rquote ) applies for }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 judicial review}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 against the decision of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Public Service Appeal Board }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 1st Respondent}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \endash the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Board}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 ) dated }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 3rd March 2004}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 disallowing the appeal of the applicant against the decision of the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education (the 2nd Respondent \endash the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Ministry}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 ) to transfer the applicant to another school from her position of Acting Head Teacher at Banivalu Primary School. \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par Decision impugned}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par On }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 5 December 2003}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 the Ministry through the Divisional Education Officer, Central informed the applicant by a Memorandum as follows: \par \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 I am directed to inform you that the Permanent Secretary for Education after a long negotiations, assessments of all deliberations and reports decided to post you to another school. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 This is done with due considerations to the current financial regulations to the staffing of schools and multi ethnic composition of Bainivalu Primary School \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The Suva Education Office will be informed through a copy of this memo to facilitate your posting. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 I take this opportunity to thank you for your contribution to the school. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par Then on }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 16 December 2003}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 by letter the applicant appealed to the Board stating: \par \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 I herein appeal against the decision of the Minsitry of Education dated 5/12/2003 to transfer me from my position of Acting Head Teacher of Bainivalu Primary School, Nausori to Indra Gandhi Memorial Primary School, Suva effecting f rom 26/01/2004 without complying with Regulation 13 of the Public Service Regulations 1999 and breach of section 140(c) of 1997 Constitution. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par The appeal is made under Section 25(1)(c) of the Public Service Act 1999. \par \par The following is the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 decision}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the Board against which the judicial review is sought: \par \par The Appeal Board has considered your appeal against the decision of the Permanent Secretary for Education to transfer you from Bainivalu Memorial School to Indira Gandhi Memorial School. \par \par The Board has decided to disallow the appeal.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The reason is that the Ministry had complied with the requirements of Regulation 13 of the Public Service [General] R}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 egulations.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Reliefs sought}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par The applicant seeks the following reliefs: \par \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 An order for }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 certiorari }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 to remove the decision of the Board and to quash it. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 A declaration the decision of the Ministry to transfer the applicant}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 is }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 non-compliance}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Regulation 13(c)}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Public Service Regulations, 1999}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 which is in excess of jurisdiction, erroneous, irrational, unreasona ble and unfair and null and void. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 A declaration that the Board failed to exercise its powers in accordance with law, was biased in predetermining the appeal in denial of natural justice in dismissing the appeal in breach of }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 section 26}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Public Service Act, 1999}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 . \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 An order of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Mandamas}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 directing the Board to review the appeal on merit. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 About the applicant}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par The applicant is a school teacher.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 She was posted to Bainivalu Primary School in 1989.}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 She was later promoted as Assistant Head Teacher in TE07 grade in 1993 regraded as ED5A. \par \par On 20 July 2001 she was appointed to act as Head Teacher in ED5E grade at the said school after the substantive Head Teacher retired on 19 July 2001 and since then she had been acting on that vacant post. \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Circumstances leading to transfer \par \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The applicant says that she was qualified to apply for the vacant post but the Ministry did not advertise the vacancy. \par \par She alleged that on 5 December 2003 without prior notice the Ministry attempted to transfer the applicant to Indira Gandhi Memorial School. \par \par The applicant then appealed to the Board under }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 section 25(c) }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Pubic Service Act, 1999}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 .}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par The further facts and circumstances leading to the applicant\rquote s transfer and the reason for it are stated by Mr. Raikadroka (Counsel for the Ministry) as follows in his written submission: \par \par The post of Head Teacher (ED4C) was substantially vacant at Bainivalu Primary School and Mrs. Naloma had been appointed to act on the post since the 21st of July 2001.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The Ministry decided to post Mr. Nemani Savumiramira as Head Teacher of Bainivalu Primary since he was an ED4C teacher.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 This officer was originally posted to Naivucini District School however, someone else had filled that position and so he was transferred to Dilkusha Boys to carry out the duties of an ED8A officer.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Before the Ministry posted Mr. Savumiramira to Bainivalu Primary, the School Management was consulted. \par \par The Ministry decided to transfer Mrs. Naloma after considering the multi ethnic composition of the School, meaning that an Indo Fijian Assistant Head Teacher had to be posted to Bainivalu.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Mrs. Naloma was transferred to Indira Ghandi Memorial School as Assistant Head Teacher (ED5A) her substantive level. \par \par The Ministry sent a Memo dated 5th December 2003 to Mrs. Naloma informing her that she was to be posted from Bainivalu to Indira Gandhi Primary with effect from the 26th of January 2004 on her existing terms and conditions.}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 On the 16th of December 2003, Mrs. Naloma lodged her appeal with the Public Service Appeals Board (\'93the Board) against the Ministry \rquote s decision to transfer }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 her and then a day later she lodged her appeal with the Ministry}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 . \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Grounds of application}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par The grounds of application are: \par \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 that the Board erred in law in predetermining the appeal on its Secretary\rquote s submission without hearing the appeal contrary to section 25(8) and (9) of the Public Service Act 1999 in denial of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 natural justice}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 . \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 that the Board failed to take into account that the Ministry failed to comply with regulation 13(c) of the Public Service Regulations 1999 and for this reason appeal ought to have been allowed. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 That the reason given by the Board in disallowing the appeal is \lquote erroneous irrational, in excess of its jurisdiction and wholly unreasonable in Wednesbury sense.\rquote }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929\charrsid2894929 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Consideration of the application \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par In this case the judicial review is not against the decision of the CEO but that of the Board disallowing the appeal on the ground that the CEO has complied with the requirements of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Regulation 13 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Public Service Regulations 1999}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (L/N No. 47/99)(the \lquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Regulations}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \rquote ). \par \par The said }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 reg. 13}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 provides: \par \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 13.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls6\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart13\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls6\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The Commission may transfer an employee without the employee\rquote s agreement only if the Commission has \endash \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (a)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 \tab }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 given the employee 28 days written notice of the transfer; \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (b)\tab given the employee an opportunity to state his or her views}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 about the transfer; and \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart3\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 considered any views stated by the employee. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The sequence of events since the receipt of letter of transfer dated 5 December 2003 is very important in considering this application. \par \par The effective date of transfer was from 26 January 2004.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The consecutive 28 days taken from 5 December would have expired on or about 2 January 2004.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 But the applicant lodged her appeal on 16 December 2003 and a day later lodged her appeal with the Ministry. \par \par By this time the Ministry had complied with (a) and (b) of reg. 13.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 But before it could consider (c) of reg. 13 the applicant had already appealed to the Board and hence the Ministry had to wait until the Board gave its decision. \par \par In other words the Ministry did not have the opportunity to comply fully with reg. 13 and particularly (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 c}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 ) thereof as under s26(10) it is stated that \'93}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 the Appeal Board may allow or disallow an appeal by an employee and the relevant Commission must implement the decision.\'94 \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par There is provision in the Act for right of appeal against the transfer.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Hence the appeal to the Board was against the letter of transfer of 5 December but the applicant }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 prematurely}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 went ahead to appeal to the Board without letting the Ministry the opportunity to comply the three limbs of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 reg. 13}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 .}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 In effect the Ministry had not given its final decision in the matter of transfer after hearing what the applicant had to say under }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 reg. 13(b)}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 . \par \par This is not a review of the Ministry\rquote s decision to transfer but against the decision of the Board that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 the Ministry had complied fully with reg.13}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 and therefore disallowing the appeal. \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Conclusion}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par \par On the affidavit evidence before me, I find that the applicant\rquote s lodgment of appeal to the Board was }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 premature}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 for the Ministry was prevented from fully considering reg. 13 and reaching a decision which could be appealed. \par \par The appeal in the circumstances could have been rejected outright but it was not.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The Board did hear the parties and it did not deny natural justice as suggested. \par \par It disallowed the appeal and explained the reason for doing so by saying that the \'93Ministry had complied with the requirements of Regulations 13 of the Public Service (General) Regulations\'94. \par \par But it will be seen that the full compliance was not there, particularly reg.13(c) at the time when the appeal was lodged which prevented the Ministry from complying.}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2894929 }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 The applicant rushed to the Board instead of waiting for a final response from the Ministry. \par \par The Board was quite right when it said in its Minutes herein, inter alia: \par \par The Ministr y was restrained from considering any views expressed by the appellant in accordance with Regulation 13(c) because she had lodged her appeal to the Board in accordance with Section 25(1)(c) of the Public Service Act on 17/12/03, the same day she lodged he r response to the Ministry. \par \par But because it stated that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 reg. 13 was complied with}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 , which I hold was wrong, I grant an order of certiorari in respect of the Board\rquote s decision. \par \par To conclude, for the above reasons it follows that the Public Service Appeal Board did not make a proper decision in accordance with the law. \par \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Order \par }{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par I therefore make an }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Order}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of certiorari}{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 , quashing and removing the said decision of the Public Service Appeal Board of 30 March 2004 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 AND }{ \b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 under }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Or.53 r.9(4)}{\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 of the High Court Rules 1988 I r emit the matter to the Ministry of Education to fully comply with the requirements of Regulation 13 particularly Regulation 13(c) which it was prevented from complying when the applicant prematurely went straight to the Board, and to reach a decision in a ccordance with the findings of the Court. \par \par Each party bear his own costs in the circumstances of this case. \par \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 (D. Pathik) \par }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 Judge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2894929 {\b0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16065409\charrsid2894929 \par At Suva \par 10 September 2004 \par }}