{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}{\f172\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;}
{\f173\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f175\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f176\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}{\f177\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);}
{\f178\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f179\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f180\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255;
\red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0;
\red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{
\s1\ql \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel0\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 1;}{
\s2\ql \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel1\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 2;}{\s3\qj \li0\ri0\sl360\slmult1
\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel2\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 3;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\*
\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\trcbpat1\trcfpat1\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\s15\qj \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext15 Body Text 2;}{\s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 
\sbasedon0 \snext16 header;}{\*\cs17 \additive \sbasedon10 page number;}{\s18\ql \li0\ri0\sl360\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext18 
Body Text;}{\s19\qj \li0\ri0\sl360\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext19 Body Text 2;}{\s20\qj \li720\ri0\sl360\slmult1
\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext20 Body Text Indent 2;}{\s21\qj \li1440\ri0\sl360\slmult1
\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext21 Body Text Indent 3;}}{\*\listtable{\list\listtemplateid739686184\listsimple{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4
\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\fbias0 \fi-720\li1440\jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listname ;}\listid930897919}{\list\listtemplateid-921639016\listsimple{\listlevel
\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\b0\fbias0 \fi-720\li1440\jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listname ;}\listid1322538131}}{\*\listoverridetable
{\listoverride\listid1322538131\listoverridecount0\ls1}{\listoverride\listid930897919\listoverridecount0\ls2}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid2690068\rsid4875554}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6764;}{\info{\title IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\author Gurmeet}
{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo12\dy17\hr12\min19}{\revtim\yr2005\mo12\dy17\hr12\min19}{\printim\yr2004\mo3\dy9\hr15\min46}{\version2}{\edmins1}{\nofpages13}{\nofwords3916}{\nofchars22327}{\*\company Judicial Department}{\nofcharsws26191}
{\vern16391}}\margl2160\margr2160 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow0
\jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot2690068 \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\insrsid4875554 PAGE  }}{\fldrslt {
\cs17\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid4875554 13}}}{\cs17\insrsid4875554 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\insrsid4875554 
\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 \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 JUDICIAL REVIEW NO. 27 OF 2003
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Between:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 THE STATE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 v.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Ex-parte:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 ISIKELI GAVIDI BOLA
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Applicant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Mr. R. Matebalavu for the Applicant
\par Mr. S.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068\charrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Navoti for the Respondent
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par This is an application dated 12 August 2003 pursuant to leave granted 28 July 2003 for judicial review by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Isikeli Gavidi Bola}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (the \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 applicant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \rquote ) of the decision of the }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Public Service Commission}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (the \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 respondent}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \rquote ) to terminate his employment as a Co-operative Officer on 16 April 2003.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Decision impugned
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The decision impugned, which was communicated to the applicant by memorandum dated 22 April 2003, is in the following terms:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s20\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
At its meeting held on 16/4/2003 the Commission considered the disc
iplinary charges made against you by the Director & Registrar of Co-operatives and your mitigation to the charges relating to the misappropriation of National Co-operative Federation Limited Funds totalling $1055.00 in violation of the sub section [1], [4
] and [8] of the Section 6[1] of the Public Service Act 1999.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The Commission is satisfied that you are guilty as charged and that your appointment be terminated in accordance with Regulations 22 [1][a] of the Public Service [General] Regulations 1999.\'94
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The Relief sought
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The applicant seeks relief as follows (as in the application):
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Certiorari
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order to remove the decision of the Respondent the Public Service Commission made on 16th April 2003 to terminate the employment of the Applicant as Co-operative Officer and the same be quashed.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Declaration}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order that the employment of the Applicant by the Respondent the Public Service Commission as Co-operative Officer subsists.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Declaration}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order that the decision of the Respondent the Public Service Commission to terminate the employment of the Applicant as Co-operative Officer is unlawful, void and of no effect.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Reinstatement}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order that the Applicant may be reinstated.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Alternatively:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (e)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Mandamus}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order to oblige the Respondent the Public Service Commission to reconsider its decision in accordance with the law.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (f)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Declaration}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
An Order that the Respondent the Public Service Commission is obliged by the rules of natural justice to afford the Applicant an opportunity to be heard on its reconsideration of the matter.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (g)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Damages
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (h)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Costs
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (i)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnb0\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Further order or other relief that this Honourable Court may deem fit and necessary.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Grounds for judicial review
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Very briefly, the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 grounds}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  for judicial review are as follows:
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \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\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The respondent }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
contravened Regulation 22(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Public Service Regulations 1999}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in not providing or failing to provide written charges to the applicant and in unilaterally terminating his employment without providing him with written charges at all.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \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\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Denial of natural justice}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
 in failing to consult the applicant with regard to the allegations and in neglecting to give him the opportunity to be heard in respect of the allegations.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \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\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The respondent contravened }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Article 33(3)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Constitution }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 by not providing any charge at all regarding the allegations thus depriving the applicant of his right to fair labour practice guaranteed under the said Article.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \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\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The respondent contravened }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Article 29(3)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Constitution }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 by}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
failing to have the allegations against the applicant determined within a reasonable time.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Background facts
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The applicant who joined the Civil Service in 1972 was regraded a co-operative officer in the Department of Co-operatives in 1973.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 On }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 9 August 1999}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  he travelled from Suva to Koro Island to carry out audit duties regarding annual audi
t, board meeting and computer awareness.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 He took with him Government revenue receipt book number 36451 \endash  36500.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 He collected }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 $1055.00}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  from cooperative members and issued relevant receipts from the said receipt book.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 He returned to Suva on 21 August 1999 and resumed duty on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 25 August 1999.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par 
\par He said that on 25 August 1999 a visitor from Matuku Island went away with the said sum of money which was in his brief case, mistakenly believing the applicant\rquote s brief case as his own.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The applicant accounted to the Director and Registrar of Co-operatives for the said money and receipt book about }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
9 March 2000 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 when his brief case was returned to him.
\par 
\par By memorandum dated }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 2 February 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  the applicant was asked to hand the receipt book by 4 February 2000.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The applicant was written to way back }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 on 7 October 1999}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  but showed no response.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 On }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 9 March 2000}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 , about 7 months later the applicant did account for the money and the receipt book was returned as well.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 However, by memorandum dated }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 9 May 2000}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  he was asked to explain why it took so long to lodge $1055 with the Clerical Officer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 There was no response and a reminder was sent on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 26 June 2000}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  to explain within 7 days \lquote why you should not be disciplined for this incompetency\rquote .
\par 
\par Thereafter it was on 5 March 2003 that the respondent wrote to the applicant that at its meeting on 5th March it noted}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
the disciplinary charges filed against you by the Director & Registrar of Co-operative, your failure in responding to the allegations and the findings/recommendation made by the Director & Registrar of Co-operatives\'94.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The memorandum stated that the commission has directed that he \lquote 
 be called before the Commission to negotiate your case in person before it deliberates further on the course of action to be taken\rquote . He was required to attend on Wednesday 19th March 2003 at 10.00am.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The applicant says that no charges \'93
whatsoever was received by me either from the Director & Registrar of Co-operatives or from the Respondent regarding failure to account for aforesaid money and receipt book.\'94
\par 
\par The applicant failed to attend on 19th March so he was reminded by memorandum of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 28 March 2003}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
 to attend the Commission meeting scheduled for }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 2 April 2003}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  to speak in \lquote mitigation\rquote .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 This meeting he attended.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Subsequently the said memorandum of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 22 April 2003}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  was sent terminating the applicant\rquote s employment.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Applicant\rquote s submission
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The learned counsel for the applicant submits that the sum involved was accounted for some 7 months after the applicant returned to his office in August 1999. He denied that he received any charges in relation to the matter.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Then in March 2003, about 4 years later since returning from Koro Island the respondent wrote notifying the applicant to be present to mitigate at its meeting.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Although he says that he did not receive such notice, he did attend and mitigate subsequently.
\par 
\par Counsel submits that on 5 March 2003 the respondent virtually decided to terminate the applicant\rquote s employment under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 reg. 22(1)(a) Public Service (General) Regulations, 1999}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  before the applicant was called to mitigate.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The
 applicant was a first offender.
\par 
\par It is the counsel\rquote s submission that the termination is unlawful and the decision on which it is based is null and void and that such decision is in breach of rules of natural justice.
\par 
\par Counsel further submits that the decision is \lquote premature\rquote  notwithstanding the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 alleged admission of receipt of charges}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  during the respondent\rquote s meeting of 2 April 2003.
\par 
\par He says that there was }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 undue delay}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
 in bringing the charges since initial failure to account which is approximately 2 years and 5 months and further 16 months before the Respondent\rquote 
s decision making a total of 3 years and 9 months. Counsel submits that the applicant was lured into a false sense of security.
\par 
\par Counsel submits that for a person who has served the respondent for 30 years and is a first offender the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 decision to terminate is unreasonable}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 .
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Respondent\rquote s submission
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The applicant collected some $1055.00 from Co-operative members and issued appropriate receipts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 He returned to Suva on }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 21 August 1999}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  and went to work on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 25 August 1999}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 .
\par 
\par After the applicant failed to account for this sum to his employer, 9 Disciplinary Charges were laid against him on }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 8 January 2002.
\par }\pard\plain \s20\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 On 16 April 2002, the applicant and the respondent again met after 2}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 April 2003 \lquote to hear further submission from the Acting Director of the Co-operative\rquote  and ruled that the applicant\rquote s employment be terminated.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The Respondent opposes the application, firstly, on the ground that there is \lquote no arguable cause established\rquote  and secondly, the judicial review application is \lquote premature\rquote  in that the applicant has not exhausted all }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 alternative remedy}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  available to him.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Consideration of the application
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
The circumstances in which the applicant\rquote s employment was terminated after 30 years of service in the Government has already been stated hereabove.
\par 
\par I have found the written submissions very helpful in determining the issue before the Court.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Principles pertaining to judicial review
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par It is important to bear in mind that judicial review is not an appeal from a decision but is a review of the manner in which the decision was made.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 It is concerned, \'93}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 not with the decision but with decision-making process.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Unless that restriction on the power of the Court is observed, the Court will, in my view, under the guise of preventing the abus
e of power, be itself guilty of usurping power\'94 (Lord Brightman in Chief Constable of the North Wales Police v Evans }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 [1982] 1 W.L.R. 1155 at 1173].}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Further in that case }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Lord Hailsham }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 at 1160 commented on the purpose of the remedy under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Order 53}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  as follows, which is apt:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
This remedy, vastly increased in extent, and rendered, over a long period in recent years, of infinitely more convenient access than that provided by the old prerogative writs and actions for a declaration, is intended to protect the indiv
idual, judicial, quasi-judicial, and, as would originally have been thought when I first practiced at the Bar, administrative.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
It is not intended to take away from those authorities the powers and discretion properly vested in them by law and to substitute the courts as the bodies making the decisions.}{\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 It is intended to see that the relevant authorities use their powers in a proper manner.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Furthermore, it should be noted that in a judicial review the Court is}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 not as much concerned with the merits of the decision as with the way in which it was reached\'94}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 (}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Evans,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  supra at 1174).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Also, as put by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Lord Templeman in Reg. v Inland Revenue Commissioners, Ex parte Preston}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (1985) A.C. 835 at 862:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
Judicial review is available where a decision-making authority exceeds its powers, commits an error of law, commits a breach of natural justice, reaches a decision which no reasonable tribunal could have reached, or abuses its powers\'94.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par As was said by the Fiji Court of Appeal in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The Permanent Secretary for Public Service Commission }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 and }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The Permanent Secretary for Education, Women & Culture ex p. Lepani Matea }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Civil Appeal No. ABU0018 of 1998S at 12 that the Court:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
must not do is to determine the merits of the matter, or substitute its opinion for that of the body concerned upon the merits\'94.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Also to be borne in mind is that one of the purposes of judicial review is to ensure that that an applicant is given a }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 fair treatment}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  by the decision-making body in question.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
The judicial review jurisdiction is supervisory in nature.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The Court confines itself to the question of legality when reviewing a decision.

\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Consideration of grounds of review
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Applying the above principles I shall now deal with the grounds of review.
\par 
\par It is abundantly clear from all the material before me that there are a certain unsatisfactory features relating to the applicant\rquote s case before the penalty of termination of employment was imposed by the Respondent.
\par 
\par Firstly, there was along }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 delay }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 on the part of the respondent in finally disposing of the matter before it.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The alleged breach was committed in August 1999 and decision to terminate took place in 2003.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 
 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 It is not clear from the evidence whether the applicant was still in employment all this time but it appears that he was at work.
\par 
\par On the facts and circumstances of this case it is most unfair to the applicant that it took about 4 years to finalise a matter of this nature although some blame should attach to him for not responding to the memorandums and finally making admissions.

\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Just as time limits under Order 53 are essential matters in a judicial review and tight time limits are set in judicial review applications, the respondent should also bear in mind time factor in taking disciplinary proceedings.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Applications have been refused for even short periods of d
elay, one reason being that public authorities should not delay dealing with breaches where there is no justification.
\par 
\par With these observations and comments I shall now consider the issue before the Court.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Natural Justice
\par }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The applicant\rquote s grounds mainly are that he was denied }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 natural justice }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 because the disc}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 i}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 p}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 l}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 inary charges were not brought to his notice.
\par 
\par But the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Minutes}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 , in this regard states:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s21\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
Admitted using the money and prolonged the payment that should have been done at the end of 1999 but instead repaid in early 2000.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard\plain \s21\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
In relation to the charges, he admitted that he had received the charges, but could not make a response since he was busy with his work, changes of senior staffs, and had to conduct election training in the Eastern Divisions.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 In thi
s case the applicant was given the opportunity of appearing before the respondent to answer the charges.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
He admitted rather belatedly having been served with these charges. The applicant was quite dishonest in approaching the allegations made against him as at first denying and later admitting having received the charges.
\par 
\par The applicant has been guilty of serious breach of the regulations in failing to account for this large sum of money in time as it was his duty as an employee in the Public Service.
\par 
\par The applicant }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 therefore fails on this ground.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par 
\par On \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 rules of natural justice\rquote  Lord Bridge }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 in}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  Lloyd v McMahon}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
(1987) AC 625 at 702 stated as follows and it is pertinent:
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 \'93}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
The so-called rules of natural justice are not engraved on tablets of stone. To use the ph
rase which better expresses the underlying concept, what the requirements of fairness demand when anybody, domestic, administrative or judicial, has to make a decision which all affect the right of individual depends on the character of the decision-makin
g body, the kind of decision it has to make and the statutory or other framework in which it operates.\'94 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Similar observations were made by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Lord Lane}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
R v Commission of Racial Equality ex parte Cotterell and Rothon (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 1980) 3 All E.R 265, 271 as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Indeed, all that the rules of natural justice mean is that the applicant should be treated fairly.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Accordingly, before assessing the fairness of the manner in which the decision complained of was taken\'85, it is necessary to analyse the context in which [it] was made and the nature of the decision.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Further on \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 opportunity to be heard\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Kioa v West}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 (1985) 159 CLR 550, 584-565 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Mason J }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 (as his Honour then was) remarked that:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
What is appropriate in terms of natural justice depends on the circumstances of the case and they will include, inter alia, the rules under which the decision-maker is acting. \'85.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 In this respect the expression \'93procedural fairness\'94
 more aptly conveys the notion of a flexible obligation to adopt fair procedures which are appropriate an
d adapted to the circumstances of the particular case. The statutory power must be exercised fairly, i.e. in accordance with procedures that are fair to the individual considered in light of the statutory requirements, the interests and purposes, whether 
public or private or which the statute seeks to advance or protect or permits to be taken into account as legitimate considerations\'85..\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par In this case I cannot see that there was any denial of natural justice bearing in mind the above principles.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 In the words of }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Lord Denning MR}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Regina v Secretary of State for Home Department}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 , }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Ex parte Mughal}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  1974 1 QB (CA) 313 at 314, the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93rules of natural justice must not be stretched too far,\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  which the applicant tried to do in this case. Subject to what I say hereafter, the applicant therefore fails on this ground.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Is it a case of Wednesbury unreasonableness?
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The respondent gave the applicant the opportunity of appearing before it and heard him on the allegations and in mitigation.
\par 
\par According to the Minutes, among other reasons, the applicant explained that:
\par \'93Some senior officers in the Department always loan mainly from the NCF (National Co-operative Federation Ltd) given time to pay back through salary deductions or FNPF loan. He could not understand and why they had 
to charge him since he had paid back the money.\'94 
\par 
\par The applicant was told that be would be \lquote informed of a decision in due course\rquote .
\par 
\par The respondent deliberated \lquote and agreed to defer the case until the Director of Co-operatives is summoned to brief the Commission on the veracity in the utilization and repaying of the National Co-operatives Federation Union funds.
\par 
\par It appears from the evidence before me and from the annexure that neither the Director nor the Acting Director of Co-operative was present at the he
aring before the Commission on 2 April 2003. Someone should have been present when the applicant appeared before it so that he could explain and enable the Commission to come to a decision after listening to the applicant, the person affected by the decis
ion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Because the Commission decided to hear the Director in the applicant\rquote 
s absence after this meeting gives rise to a sense of grievance in the mind of the applicant amounting to a denial of natural justice.
\par 
\par Exactly what, after listening to the Director, prompted the respondent to give the applicant, who has served his employer for over 30 years, the severest of punishment or penalty which was allowed the respondent under the Regulation, is not disclosed.

\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 The guiding principle
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par The guiding principle on this subject of \'93reasonableness\'94 is stated quite clearly in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Associated Provincial Picture Houses Ld v Wednesbury Corporation}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (1988) 1 KB (C.A.) 233 AT 233-234 as follows, and it has to be borne in mind in considering the issue:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93 The Court is entitled to in
vestigate the action of the local authority with a view to seeing whether they have taken into account matters which they ought not to take into account, or conversely, have refused to take into account or neglected to take into account matters which they
 ought to take into account.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Once that question is answered in favour of the local authority, it may be still possible to say that, although the local authority have kept within the four corners of the matters which they ought to consider, they have neverth
eless come to a conclusion so unreasonable that no reasonable authority could ever have come to it. In such a case, again, I think the court can interfere. The power of the court to interfere in each case is not as an appellant authority to override a dec
ision of the local authority, but as a judicial authority which is concerned, and concerned only, to see whether the local authority have contravened the law by acting in excess of the powers which Parliament has confided in them.\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Taking into account all that I have stated hereabove on this head I find that the whole approach to the applicant\rquote s case has been }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Wednesbury unreasonable }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 on the part of the respondent. 
\par 
\par In the interests of justice I feel that there has been a certain degree of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 procedural impropriety}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
. The court is always concerned to see that the decisions must be reasonable; they must not be biased or pre-determined; they must be exercised with the rights of natural justice in mind, unless a statute, expressly or by clear implication provides a c
ontrary intention.
\par 
\par In any review of decision the court is concerned to evaluate fairness. The parameters of this ground of \lquote procedural impropriety\rquote  has been explained by }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Lord Diplock}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Council of Civil Service Unions v Minister for the Civil Service }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 (1985) Ac 374 at 408 thus:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93I \'85 describe the third head as \'93procedural impropriety\'94
 rather than failure to observe basic rules of natural justice or failure to act with procedural fairness towards the person who will be affected by the decision. This is becau
se the susceptibility to judicial review under this head covers also the failure by an administrative tribunal to observe procedural rules that are expressly laid down in the legislative instrument by which its jurisdiction is conferred, even where such f
ailure does not involve any denial of natural justice.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par I have already stated hereabove the procedure adopted by the respondent and after the applicant appeared before the respondent to speak in \lquote mitigation\rquote .
\par 
\par The applicant could not have succeeded in conv
incing the respondent for what he did and no one can have any sympathy with him judging by the nature of the explanation he gave about the loss of the money and the long delay in accounting for it. There I adopt what was said by }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Hooper J}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Regina v Ministry of Defence Ex parte Murray}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (The Times Law Reports, Q.B., Div. Ct. 17.12.97.p. 32) when he said:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
Judicial review was unlikely to succeed where the reasons were easily discernible albeit not expressed or where no other conclusion than that reached was realistically possible\'94.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par It has even been held that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
there is no principle of law that says that unfairness can never be ignored if a fair hearing would not have made any difference to the decision taken;\'94 }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
(Celik (Ali) and Celik (Hanifa) v Secretary of State for the Home Department}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (1991) Imm. A.R.8, C.A. referred to in CLY p.489 1991 item 1969). There }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Straughton L.J.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  said:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
Ordinarily, if there has been improper procedure, one needs to be soundly convinced that the impropriety made no difference before one}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
should refuse to act upon it.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Penalty
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par There has been an unjustified delay in concluding the disc}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 i}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 p}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2690068 l}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 inary proceedings despite the fact that the applicant had not responded in good time.
\par 
\par It is also noticed that the applicant was still employed despite the fact that the alleged breaches were committed in 1999 only to be told four years later that his employment is terminated.
\par 
\par This was done in the face of the fact that a further report on the applicant was obtained from the Director of Co-operatives without hearing the applicant further on that as well as on the penalty.
\par 
\par The applicant should have been heard of the penalty after this further report was received. On this aspect I am persuaded by the following passage in the judgment of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Supreme Court}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Mateo}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  (supra) :
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
The respondent brought in the High Court judicial review proceedings against his dismissal. By a judgment delivered on 18 March 1998 Byrne J. ordered inter alia that the dismissal be quashed on the ground of the Commission\rquote s failure to g
ive the respondent any opportunity to be heard and also on the ground that the penalty of dismissal was too harsh. On appeal the Court of Appeal (Casey, Savage and Dillon JJ) in a judgment delivered on 29 May 1998 confirmed Byrne J\rquote 
s decision on the first 
ground. They pointed out that what is a fair hearing depends on the circumstances of the case; a right of personal appearance need not always be given. On the second ground they thought that, on judicial review at common law, the Court is limited to consi
d
er whether a penalty was so severe and out of proportion that no reasonable body could have imposed it. That second ground has not been argued in the Supreme Court, so we are not concerned to consider the relevant scope of the common law as to judicial re
view or any constitutional question such as the right to freedom from disproportionately severe punishment (article 25 (1) of the Commission of 1998).\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par It is also provided in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Reg 22(2) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
Public Service Regulations 1999 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 that the respondent must }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 comply with rules}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 natural justice. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 It provides:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 \'93
In deciding whether an employee has breached the Public Service Code of Conduct and if so what disciplinary action should be taken against the employee, the Commission must comply with the principle of natural justice.\'94
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par On this aspect I refer to the following passage from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Mateo }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 (supra) ar p4:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 There are numerous authorities establishing at common law, that where someone
\rquote s livelihood is at stake that person is entitled to a fair opportunity of a hearing unless the r
elevant legislation has clearly excluded it. There is a presumption that natural justice applies; or, as Lord Reid put it in Wiseman v Borneman [1971] A.C.298, the courts supplement procedure laid down in legislation if the statutory procedure is insuffic
ient to achieve justice and the additional step would not frustrate the apparent purpose of the legislation.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par Just as it was the Court\rquote s view in Mateo (supra) at p4 that \'93}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 the importance of the right to natural justice\'85. is evidenced when one considers the l
ong and unexplained delay before the commission took action, \'94 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
I express this same view in this case as it took about 4 years to finally conclude the disciplinary proceedings and still keep the applicant employed, thus as counsel says giving him a false sense of security.
\par 
\par Therefore after such a lapse of time for the commission to terminate the applicant\rquote s employment without hearing him properly on the Director\rquote s report and on penalty, it was clearly a denial of natural justice. Because of the procedure ado
pted by the Commission the imposition of the penalty of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 termination (Reg 22(1)(a)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
 is really harsh for a man who has served so long with an unblemished record.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Conclusion
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par To conclude, the decision to terminate was Wednesbury unreasonable in all the circumstances of this case and on the observations that I have made hereabove.
\par 
\par Lest the applicant has suffered injustice. I would invoke the provisions of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Order 53 r. 9 (4)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  which provides:
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Where the relief sought is an order or certiorari and the Court is sati
sfied that there are grounds for quashing the decision to which the application relates, the Court may in addition to quashing it, remit the matter to the court, tribunal or authority concerned with a direction to reconsider it and reach a decision in acc
ordance with the findings of the Court.
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par I therefore quash the decision and remit it to the Public Service Commission and direct it to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 reconsider}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
 the penalty aspect with the provisions of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Reg. 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068  in mind in accordance with the findings of the Court.
\par 
\par The application for judicial review is allowed with costs to the applicant in the sum of $250.00.
\par 
\par }\pard \s19\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 D.Pathik
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 Judge
\par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2690068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9112717\charrsid2690068 
\par At Suva
\par 10 March 2004
\par }}