Government will fund the first gas crematorium in Labasa. Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh said the $250k project was in line with environmental principles to produce less air pollution than that produced by firewood.

“It will be built at Tuatua Cemetery. The days of using firewood and cremating loved ones in open fire will soon end,” he said.

“Looking for firewood will no longer happen, and it’s about delivering the best for our communities.”

Mr Singh said a plan for the project had been drawn up and work would begin once other processes were finalised.

He added the project was not only new to Labasa but a first for the Northern Division.