The Public Accounts Committee has seen that squatting was and still is a major problem in Fiji and was observed to be growing at an alarming rate of 73% from 1996 to 2003.

The committee said the housing conditions, waste disposals and sanitations were extremely poor in squatter settlements.

The findings were revealed following special investigations on the Auditor General's report 2005/2006.

The committee noted that while recommendations were being made to improve basic needs sanitation and environment management that might signal to the squatters that government accepted their illegal occupation of land.

The committee wished to reiterate its non-acceptance to the illegal occupation of state land, freehold, or native land by any person.

It was a view that there were existing state housing facilities that could be utilized by persons who are living below poverty line.