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v}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13661955\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 SUVA CITY COUNCIL \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid15816115 \par High Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid15816115 Civil Jurisdiction \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Pathik, J \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689758\charrsid15816115 31 May, 2000}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 HBC 901/84 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid15816115 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Powers of}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 FEA under section 37 of}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Electricity Act}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1510376\charrsid8400316 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1510376\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 whether location of}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 power poles a nuisance - powers of local authority under sections 107}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10691578\charrsid8400316 & 109 of}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Local Government Act - doctrine of mistake discussed -}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 principles of statutory interpretation discussed}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid8400316 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 powers of local authority under Town Planning Act - debt recovery - Local Gov}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10691578\charrsid8400316 ernment Act (Cap 125) s107, 109;}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Electricity Act (Cap 180) ss}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid8400316 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 3, 13(1), 37(1), (2), 43; Town Planning Act (Cap 39) ss 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8532069\charrsid8400316 6}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid8400316 , 27(1}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 ), 28 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The Plaintiff herein sought to recover monies allegedly owed to it by the Defendant for services rendered. The Defendant had notified the Plaintiff to relocate power poles belonging to the Plaintiff, during a road-widening exercise. The Plaintiff did relocate the poles but then claimed from the Defendant costs for labour and materials used in the relocation of the power poles which sat on land belonging to the Defendant. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid947740 Held:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1) defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s claim of nuisance was created by its own request to re-site electricity poles; \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (2) the local authority has the power to remove structures which do not conform to a town planning scheme by virtue of Sect}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10691578\charrsid15816115 ion 27 of the Town Planning Act}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid15816115 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (3) the defendant is entitled to be compensated for injurious affection by virtue of any action taken in accordance with Sect}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10691578\charrsid15816115 ion 27 of the Town Planning Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (4) t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10691578\charrsid15816115 he intention of Electricity Act }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 s}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 13 is to confer an advantage on the plaintiff but here, there was no advantage, but inconvenience. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s counterclaim dis missed and judgment entered for plaintiff without interest. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Cases referred to in judgment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Ref }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Bell v Lever Brothers Ltd}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 (1931) All ER 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Ref }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Solle v Butcher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 (1949) 2 All ER 1107}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Ref }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Farrel v Alexander}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1977) AC 59 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid15816115 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Su}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid8400316 ruj P. Sharma for the plaintiff}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid8400316 \par Vi}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 ren Kapadia for the defendant}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid8400316 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 31 May, 2000.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11367202\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Pathik, J \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 This is the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15080507\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s action by }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 way of Writ of Summons dated 11}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15080507\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 September 1984 for the recovery of monies allegedly owed to it by the Defendant. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The Defendant is the Council of the Municipality of Suva established under the Local Government Act, Cap. 125 whilst th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 e Plaintiff is a body corporate }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 under Section 3 of the}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 Electricity Act Cap. 180 (the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Act}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ) \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid7209905 Backgr}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 ound \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 This action was initiated some sixteen years ago. It is marked with continuous adjournments sought from both sides. A whole range of interlocutory matters was undertaken in order to address the disputed issues in the pleadings. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Unfortunately, this was not resolved quickly and caused the action to be dragged on indefinitely. The problem became worse by change of solicitors for the Plaintiff from Messrs. S.B. Patel t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 o Messrs. Esesimarm & Co. on 17}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid4746177 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 September, the withdra}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 wal of the same solicitors on 4}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid4746177 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 August 1993 and the engagement of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid15816115 Patel Sharma & Associates on 10}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid4746177 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 August 1993. Neither party seemed to be in a hurry to finalize the matter. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 A notice requesting a pre}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid1646878 -trial conference by virtue of O}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 .34 r.2 of the High Court Rules 1988 w}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 as filed by the Defendant on 4}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177\charrsid1646878 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 July 1991. It was agreed by counsel that the issues would remain as stated in the pleadings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10891142\charrsid1646878 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 On 4}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177\charrsid1646878 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 May 1994, again the Defendant filed a summons for an Order that the Statement of Agreed Facts and Issues dated 28}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177\charrsid1646878 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 October 1993 be amended. Once both parties addressed the interlocutory matters, the case began to move forward. On } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 6}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177\charrsid1646878 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 April 1998}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 , I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 ordered that agreed fact}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 s and issues be re-filed by 31}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid11211815\charrsid1646878 st}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177\charrsid1646878 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid1646878 May 1998 but it was not filed until 17 June 1998 by consent. Hearing in open court commenced}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 on 18}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid4746177 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 June 1998 and went on for two days. Thereafter, both counsels made written submissions by 3 August 1998. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The facts are sim}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid15816115 ple and straightforward. On 29}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid4746177 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4746177 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1992 the Defendant by its order No. 365000 requested the Plaintiff to resite electrical power poles at Nakelo Street, Vatuwaqa, Suva. When the Defendant carried out its drainage improvement the Plaintiff incurred the expense of the sum of $1,111.52 for labour and material costs. This process of re-siting electrical p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4935403\charrsid15816115 ower poles was repeated in Knoll}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 y Street on }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid15816115 7}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1646878 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 May 1982, Anand Street on 16}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1646878 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 August 1983 and at Milverton Road, Selbourne Street and Lakeba Street on}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 5}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid14623538\charrsid1646878 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1646878 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 May 1984 with the cost of $9,104.17, $484.45 and $7,623.11 respectively. The Plaintiff is seeking to recover the sum of }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8727085\charrsid15816115 $18,322.25 being the cost of re-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 siting of electrical power poles (which are owned by the Plaintiff). Initially, the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13066815\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Defendant made payments to the Plaintiff in the form of a Local Purchase Order (hereafter }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 LPO}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ) from 30}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7209905 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1982}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12211672\charrsid15816115 to 5}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12211672\charrsid7209905 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7209905 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1985 on the understanding that they were liable bylaw. Thereafter, further payments by the Defendant were made under protest and without admissi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10686152\charrsid15816115 on of liability}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 . In addition to that, the Defendant stated in clear terms to the Plaintiff that future LPO}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s would be issued in respect of additional re-siting of poles and charges paid}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10686152\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 without prejudice to the rights of the Council, to seek legal redress for the recovery of the charges that may be available under the Electricity Act or}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10686152\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 under any other legislation. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 The evidence \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The Plaintiff called Mr. Ram Kumar, its Financial Controller to testify.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 His evidence verified facts as in the Statement of Claim. He said that if there was no repayment there will be no relocation}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1454879\charrsid15816115 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 resiting. He said that the Defendant had continued to place orders and had also paid.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1454879\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Mr. Deepak Solanki Civil Engineer employed by the Defendant testified to the following effect (as stated by counsel for the Plaintiff in his written submission): \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 established that SCC originates plan for road development including widening and realignment and FEA has no input;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 SCC decides to proceed with road project following Council resolution and after making provision for all costs (including FEA resiting);}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 all the poles had to be resited after the commencement of the project as the Poles had become obstruction on the carriage way;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 the resitement took place almost simultaneously or after the commencement of the road project after consultations between SCC Road Supervisor and FEA Official; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12211672\charrsid15816115 LPO}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s were given on all works done and Invoices raised; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 No recollection of any meeting or any agreement with FEA; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \bullet }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 potentially every pole in the Suva City can become an obstruction or nuisance if SCC decides to widen roads;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Road widening done: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (i) in accordance with Town Planning Scheme}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (ii) in case of substandard roads}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 was Senior Engineer Structures at the time dealing with buildings and not roads. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The other witness for the Defendant was Eroni Ratunikalou who testified along the same lines as Solanki and it is to the following effect (as stated by counsel for the Plaintiff in his written submission): \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 agreed that all }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 p}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 oles as they existed prior to relocation did not cause any obstruction or nuisance; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 following Council decision to proceed with project these Poles then became an obstruction/nuisance i.e. SCC created it following its own decision; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 T.P Scheme can be ignored by SCC if it wishes; main causes}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11948418\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 of relocation are:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (i) Substandard Road}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 ;}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (ii) T}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 P}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Scheme Cases}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3015178\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (iii) Traffic increase/congestion etc \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11948418\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12211672\charrsid15816115 expect LPO}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s issued by S.C.C. to be honoured; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16584746\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 The Plaintif}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid7209905 f}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14890669 '}{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 s submission \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Mr. Suruj Sharma contended that the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14890669 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s claim is a simple one for services rendered at the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s express request, vide orders Nos 365000, }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10559810\charrsid15816115 2631, 00521 and 5041 between 29}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid10559810\charrsid7209905 th}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7209905\charrsid7209905 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1982 and 5}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid10559810\charrsid14890669 th}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14890669\charrsid14890669 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 March 1984. The Plaintiff duly provided the said services as per the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s said orders and rendered its account giving a breakdown into }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 labour}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 and }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 materials}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 . In short, it is a claim based on contract and accordingly the monies claimed are due and owing to them. \par \par It was further argued that the issue of nuisance must be determined solely and exclusively on the agreed facts and on the basis of the evidence adduced at the hearing. Mr. Sharma contended that the issue of nuisance does not arise}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 because it was never part of the agreed facts. However, if for one reason or another the issue of nuisance arises, then the Defen}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4935403\charrsid15816115 dant created it by its request}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 to re-site the electrical power poles. That is to say that it was only after the commencement of the sai d realignment or widening project that the poles became an obstruction and/or nuisance. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Furthermore, the Plaintiff submitted that it is not liable for costs associated with re-siting by virtue of Section 37(2) of the Electricity Act, Cap. 180 because ther e is no evidential basis for it. In this instant case, the Plaintiff did not exercise its powers under Section 37(1)(a) to (d) and therefore Section 37(2) which deals with the consequences of the Authority}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s exercise of its power, simply do not arise.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7039204\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 Defendant}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid7209905 '}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 s arguments \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Mr. Kapadia submitted that Section 37}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 of the Electricity Act, Cap. 180}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 is noteworthy because it clearly spells out the powers of the Plaintiff in respect to maintenance of electrical power poles and related electrical installa}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 tions. Section 37}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1)(d) of the Act outlines that the Plaintiff has the power }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 to maintain}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 posts thus empowering them to enter by statutory right upon any land for the purposes of the said Act. Essentially, this gives the Plaintiff an onerous responsibility to en sure that lamp posts are properly sited, and if they are not, to make }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 sufficient amends}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 . \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s argument principally rests on Section 37(2) of the Electricity Act which provides that the re-location of electrical power poles must be undertaken by the Plaintiff as the work does }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1905746 not merely involve shifting }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1905746 the posts but also electrical installations. Read in conjunction with Section 43 of the same Act which gives the power to the Plaintiff to perform those designed tasks prescribed in Section 3 7, it is plain that Plaintiff is liable to pay compensation to any person who may be inconvenienced by the act of repairing and restoration of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 electrical power poles. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 It was further argued that the Defendant by virtue of Section 107 of the Local Governmen t Act, Cap. 125 is the freehold proprietor of all streets within Suva. As such, the Defendant is at liberty to deal with the streets in such manner, as it thinks fit provided it does not break the Local Government Act and any other Laws in Fiji. Section 1 09(i)(b) of the same Act specifically }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14515001 empowers the Defendant to widen any street. It follows that electrical power poles which after a }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 road widening exercise are placed in the middle of a carriage way constitutes a nuisance to the general public, Regulation 31(1) of the Electricity Regulation clearly points out that the Plaintiff is under a duty to see that streets are not obstructed. In this instant case, since the pedestrian or vehicular traffic are obstructed in regard to the position of the lamp posts, the Plaintiff is liable for costs under Section 37(2) of the Electricity Act. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Furthermore, the Defendant pleaded the defence of mistake in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4334589\charrsid15816115 relation to payments made by LPO}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 from 1982 to 1985 on the fundamental assumption that law required them. This mistake which is common and fundamental should, by the invocation of the doctrine of mistake as outlined in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid13112212 Bell v. Lever Brothers}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4161429\charrsid13112212 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid13112212 Ltd}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1931) All ER 1 and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid13112212 Solle v. Butcher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1949) 2 All ER 1107 invalidate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 d}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 the agr}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4334589\charrsid15816115 eement made by virtue of the LPO}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 issued and invoices submitted. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 The issue \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The issue for the Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s determination is whether on the facts of this case the resitement of an electrical power pole constitutes a nuisance on the street and thereby makes the Plaintiff liable for }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12931223\charrsid15816115 the costs associated with re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 sit}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ment by virtue of Section 37(2) of the Electricity Act Cap. 180. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 Consideration of the Issue \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Both counsel have provided different interpretations to the said provision. It is imperative that I set out the whole provision which provides: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Section 37(1) In exercise of the powers conferred upon the Authority or a licensee by the provisions of this Act, the Authority or the licensee, as the case may be, may by their officers, agents or servants, }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15533680\charrsid15816115 do all or any of the following:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15533680\charrsid15816115 (a) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 survey and take levels of any Crown, Native or Private land or any part thereof and also dig out and remove any earth, stone, soil, sand and gravel whatsoever for the construction, maintenance or alteration of any line or any part thereof or for any ot her purposes in connection with the works authorised by this Act. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (b) cut and remove from any Crown, Native or Private land any tree or any branch, bough or other part of a tree growing on such lands within 30 metres of any main or sub-main used for condu cting energy and which may in any way effect or interfere with the works; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (c) open or break up any road; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (d) erect and maintain posts, staywires, poles or pillars in or upon any land and attach place and maintain wires, lines, conduits or other appliances and things necessary for the works in, under, through or over, across or upon any street, roads, }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15286029 land, building, houses or premi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1785026\charrsid15816115 e}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15286029 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15410540\charrsid15816115 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Provided that, before the exercise of any of the powers conferred by the provisions of this paragraph, notice of the intention of the Authority or the licensee, as the case may be, shall be served on the owner or other interested party at least three clea r days before the exercise of such power. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (2) In exercise of the powers given by the provision of this Section, the Authority or the licensee, as the case may be, shall not be deemed to acquire any right other than that of user only in or over the soil of any land through, over or under which the Authority or the licensee, as the case may be, causes to be placed any of the works and should any of the work so carried through, over or under any such land become nuisance or the cause of loss to the owner of s uch land, the authority or the licensee, as the case may be, shall at the expense of the Authority or the licensee, as the case may be, remove or alter compensation as may be agreed or in the case of difference to be determined by arbitration. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Part V of th e Act, covers Acquisition of the Property etc. Section 37 is found under Division 5 of Part V and deals specifically with the power to enter on and examine land. It is clear from the wording in Section 37(1) that it provides the lawful basis upon which th e Authority can exercise its powers on four main grounds, from (a) to (d). Meanwhile, Section 37(2) deals specifically with the consequences of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Authority}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s exercise of its powers under Section 37(1). There is an important condition imposed on the exer}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13325370\charrsid15816115 cise of power under Section 37(}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 1) as prescribed by the proviso. That is, the Authority shall serve on the Defendant a notice of their intention to exercise the powers conferred by the provisions of the said paragraph at least three clear days before the exer cise of such powers. Practically, this means that the Plaintiff should give three days}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 notice to the Defendant before it exercises such powers. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 However, the factual situation in this instant case is slightly different in context from what Section 37 of t he Act envisages. In this case the Defendant is giving notice of its request to re-site the electric power }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9905387\charrsid15816115 poles. The question that arises}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 is whether the Plaintiff did exercise its powers by virtue of Section 37(1). \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Section 13(}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ) of the Act, spells out the general functions of the Authority.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13566161\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 It states: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Subject as hereinafter in this Act provided, it shall be the duty of the Authority }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14180800\charrsid15816115 (a) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 t o manage and work any electrical installation transferred to the Authority and such other installations and apparatus as may be acquired by the Authority; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14180800\charrsid15816115 (b) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 to establish, manage and work such electrical installations as the Authority may deem it expedient to establish; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (c) to promote and encourage the generation of energy with a view to the economic development of Fiji; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (d) to secure the supply of energy at reasonable prices; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8333578 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (e) to advise the Minister on all matters relating to the generation, transm ission, distribution and use of energy. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (2) For the purpose of sub-section (1), the Authority may }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13566161\charrsid15816115 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14037538\charrsid15816115 (a) \'85.. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (b) purchase, construct, reconstruct, maintain and operate supply lines, generating stations, transformer stations and all other appropriate stations, buildings and work; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (c) sell, line or otherwise supply electrical plant and electrical fittings, and install, repair, maintain or remove any electrical plant and electrical fittings; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (d) acquire, in accordance with the provisions of this Act or oth erwise, any property, real or personal, which the Authority deems necessary or expedient for the purpose of construction, extending or maintaining any installation or otherwise for carrying out its duties and functions under the provisions of this Act; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (e ) carry on all such other activities as may appear to the Authority requisite, advantageous or convenient for it to carry on for}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 or in connection with the perfo}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 rmance of its duties under the provisions of this Act or with a view to making the best use of any of its assets or skills.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 To determine the answer to the central issue, it is essential to first focus on the ways statutes are interpreted. It is noted th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 at one of the approaches is to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 look at the object or the purpose of the legislation concerned. In }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8333578 Farrel v. Alexander}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 (1977) AC 59 at 81, Lord S}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 imo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 n of Glaisdale pointed out that:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 First in the construction of all written instruments including statutes, what the court is concerned to ascertain is, not what the promulgators of the instruments meant to say, but the meaning of what they have said. It}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7352629\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 is in this sense that }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 intention}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 is used as a term of art in the construction of document.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The purposive interpretation of the Act in the light of said Section 13 provides guidance to the intentions of Section 37(1). By virtue of Section 13(e) the Plaintiff is required to carry out such activities that are advantageous or convenient to the perf ormance of its duties. Thus, the intention of Section 13(e) is to confer a benefit or an advantage to the Plaintiff. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 In the instant case, there is no benefit or convenience that the Plaintiff will receive from the re-siting of electrical power poles. Rathe r it is a question of inconvenience to the Plaintiff to be financially responsible for carrying out the re-siting process in the Municipality of Suva. It is unfair on the part of the Defendant to place this burden on the Plaintiff. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Interestingly, both par ties failed to make reference to s27 of the Town Planning Act, Cap. 139 which is relevant to this matter. Part III of the said Act deals with the powers of Local Authority. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Section 27 provides (inter alia): \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 Section 27}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13661955\charrsid15816115 - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 (1) S}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ubject to the provisions of this section, the local authority may at any time }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (a) remove, pull down or alter, so as to bring into conformity with the provision of the scheme, any building or other work which does not conform with those provisions or the removal, demolition or alte ration of which is necessary for carrying the scheme into effect, or in the erection or carrying out of which any provision of the scheme has not been compiled with; or \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (b) .....}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1209089\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (c) .....}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1209089\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (d) ..... \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1209089\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (2) Before taking any action under this section the local authority shall serve a notice on the owner and on the occupier of the building or land in respect of which the action is proposed to be taken and on any other person who, in its opinion, may be affected thereby, specif ying the nature of and the grounds upon which it proposes to take the action.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 This provision directly relates to the facts in this matter i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 n that the Defendant between 29}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid6101217 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6101217 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1982 to 5}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid6101217 th}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6101217\charrsid6101217 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 December 1984 wrote to the Plaintiff to shift the power poles and cables situated along the roads (owned by the plaintiff) in accordance with the new layout of the roads in question. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Part IV of the Town Planning Act; Cap. 139 covers compensation for injurious affection, etc or claims for increase in value}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1209089\charrsid15816115 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Section 28 provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 28. Subject to the provisions of this Act, any person }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (a) whose land is }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11478710\charrsid15816115 injuriously affected by the com}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ing into operation of any provision contained in a scheme, or by the execution of any work under a scheme; or}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15168218\charrsid15816115 (b) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 who for the purpose of complying with any provision contained in a scheme, or in making or resisting a claim under the provisions of this Act relating to compensation or increase in value has incurred expenditure wh ich is rendered abortive by a subsequent modification or alteration of the scheme, shall, if he makes a claim within the time limited for the purpose by this Act, be entitled to recover as compensation from the local authority the amount by which his prop erty is decreased in value or, so far as it was reasonably incurred, the amount of the abortive expenditure, as the case may be. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2037980 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Section 16 of the said Act, requires Local Authorities to draw up Town Planning Scheme with the object o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13053975\charrsid15816115 f controlling the development of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 land and of securing suitable provision of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 traffic, transportation and for other useful purposes. Therefore, it was envisaged that the Local Authorities, in this case the Suva City Council, were expected in regard to Section 27 to exercise its powers to }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 remove, pull down or alter}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 any buildings or other work which does not conform with the provisions of the scheme. Furthermore as stated above Section 28 of the said Act provides compensation pursuant to the exercise of its powers in Section 27. Th is provision is similar to Section 37 and 38 of the Electricity Act. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 From the foregoing, it is abundantly clear that the relevant law in resolving this matter is not Section 37 of the Act but Sections 27 and 28 of the Town Planning Act, Cap. 139. Further, the Defendant is liable to pay reasonable compensation for injurious affection to the Plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6040250 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s works (power poles) on the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s land to which the}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1801309\charrsid15816115 former claims implied easement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 On the issue of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 nuisance}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 , I agree with the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2037980\charrsid15816115 f}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6040250 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s contention that it was the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s very own conscious and deliberate decisions, which made the poles an obstruction. This is evidenced in the testimony of the defendant}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s witness Eroni Ratukalou that the lamp post at Knolly Street was neither obstruc ting the traffic nor the pedestrians before the road was widened but after. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 From the evidence adduced at the hearing the Council (defendant) has admitted responsibility and therefore it is fanciful to allege }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 nuisance}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 on the part of the Plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Authori ty when all it did was to provide the very services requested of them by the Defendant. The Defendant has cited common law authorities to give meaning to Section 37(}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147433\charrsid15816115 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6040250 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14681755\charrsid15816115 (}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 d) in respect of the word }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14681755\charrsid15816115 maintain}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14681755\charrsid15816115 . I see no }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 need to give special meaning because it i s clear on its face. Words must not be interpreted in isolation but in the context in which they appear. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 The defence of mistake was raised by the Defendant and they relied on }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid6040250 Bell v. Lever Brothers Ltd}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1931) All ER 1 and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid6040250 Solle v. Butcher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 (1949) 2 All ER 107. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 agree with the Plaintiff that the parties }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 m}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 isco}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 n}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 ceived this defence as there is no basis for it. When the Defendant issued the LPOs for payments in respect of the shifting of power poles, the Plaintiff at all material times held the belief that the Defendant should bear the costs. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid7209905 Conclusion \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 I find the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s arguments misconceived in light of the agreed facts and evidence adduced at the hearing. Both counsels have relied solely}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13053975\charrsid15816115 on the Electricity Act, Cap. 18}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 0. The relevant law on the issue before the Court is the Town Planning Act, Cap. 139 which spells out clearly the responsibilities of Local Authorities. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 For these reasons the Plaintiff succeeds in its claim. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 As for Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3939325\charrsid15816115 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 s Counterclaim, in the light of Plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277469\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 having succeeded in its claim for the reasons given, the Defendant cannot hope to recover the amount claimed. The Counterclaim is therefore dismissed and the Declaration and Order sought are refused. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 In the outcome for these reasons I give judgment for the Plaintiff as claimed }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4013160\charrsid15816115 namely, the sums of $1,111.52, $48} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 3.45,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13661955\charrsid15816115 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 $9104.17 and $7}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4013160\charrsid15816115 623.11 making a total sum of $18}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 322.25 without interest for the reason that neither party took steps to have the matter resolved quickly. Costs to the Plaintiff to be taxed if not agreed. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2897720\charrsid15816115 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 Judgment for plaintif}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8727085\charrsid8400316 f}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid8400316 . \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9322976\charrsid15816115 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13566161 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2514432\charrsid15816115 Marie Chan and Mereseini R Vuniwaqa \par }}