| WELKAM |
| .........................................WELCOME.........................................
The Central Malaita Students Association (CMSA) is a multi-dialect and cultural Student Group Consisting of students from Kwara’ae, Langalanga, Kwai and Ngongosila, Malaita Outer Islands, Kwaio and Fataleka.
Our vision and objective is to protect the norms and cultural values of our members while at the same time we enhance our academic knowledge and skills towards the promotion of development and the improvement of living standards in our respective regions.
.............................................DISCLAIMER...............................
The site welcomes any contribution by way of information, comments, news articles, photos etc from its members and interested members of the public to ensure we are well informed of all the developments in our villages, constituencies, regions, islands, country, region and the world at large as well.
However, any transmission of information, news and comments is intended only for the use of the members of the Association. Any use or dissemination of information provided in this site in other websites or medium of information is not the responsibility of the Association, and the Association cannot be held liable for it. The contents of this webpage, unless expressly stated, do not comprise the views of the Association or any representation by the Association, but are views of its individual members.
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| LOCATION |
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| WHAT'S NEW |
- Central Malaita Student Association(CMSA) would include Malaita Outter Islands
student as of next year.That means if you are from Malaita Outter Islands, you are part of CMSA.
- This site is currently undergoing some major changes.
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| NOTICES |
| I WILL BE AWAY FOR TWO WEEKS IN THE SOLOMONS. WHILE I AM AWAY, N.G, COULD YOU KEEP OUR SITE UPDATED WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM HOME. I WILL BE BACK ONLINE IN AUGUST - PM |
QUOTE OF THE DAY |
| "Youth is a blunder; Manhood is a struggle; Old age is a regret - (BENJAMIN DISRAELI (1804 - 1881)" |
 BENJAMIN DISRAELI (1804-1881) |
| CHAT BOARD |
| KU'AL HU'AN ALA'ANGA!!!.
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| CLIPS OF THE TSUNAMI IN SOLOMON ISLANDS |
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| HISTORICAL CLIPS OF THE SOLOMONS |
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| OTHER SOLOMON ISLANDS CLIPS: MUSIC, SPORTS ETC |
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| POSTERS |
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Vakavuku, SISA custom dancers administrator
Central Malaita Dancing Group at the Tsunami Appeal at Laucala Campus administrator
AUKI WHARF administrator
REACHING OUT....A young boy from Kilusakwalo reading through a pamphlet about RAMSIâs work in Solomon Islands which was
distributed during a meeting by a RAMSI Outreach Team to the village yesterday. PICTURE: MOFFAT MAMU administrator
A Malaita Ramo - JanesOceania.com
A house found it self submerged as a result of the Tsunami - Lifhaus.com">
 Jacinta Moli from Central Malaita representing Solomon Islands in Powerlifting during the Commonwealth Games
administrator
Tennis Queen Irine George from Central Malaita" ">
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| Thursday, March 29, 2007 |
| POLICE CHARGE RETIRED FEDERAL COURT JUDGE |
SIBConline news
19:03 hrs
29/03/2007
Police in Australia have laid criminal charges against retired Federal Court Judge Marcus Einfeld (pictured on your right). He's been charged with 13 offences including perjury, perverting the course of justice and making and using false statutory declarations.
The charges were laid by detectives from Strike Force Chanter who've been investigating allegations Mr Einfeld gave false evidence when he successfully challenged a speeding fine in a Sydney court.
Police say the charges relate to four separate traffic offences.Mr Einfeld has been granted conditional bail and will face Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court next month.
Mr Einfeld was initially Solomon Islands government's choice to head a commission of inquiry into the last April riots in Honiara. |
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| SOLOMON ISLANDS POLICE - A STRONG AND EFFECTIVE FORCE |
Department of the Prime Minister Office and the Cabinet
From the Office of the Special Coordinator/RAMSI
RAMSI Special Coordinator Tim George has congratulated the Solomon Islands police for the hard work that has transformed them from a troubled organisation to a strong, effective and professional police force.
Speaking to representatives from the Pacific anti-corruption group, Transparency International, Mr George said a well-governed, professional police force is central to Solomon Islands efforts to combat corruption.
“The transformation of the Solomon Islands Police Force (SIPF) has been fundamental to much of the progress that has been achieved by Solomon Islanders, with RAMSI’s assistance, in other areas of national life,” Mr George said.
“From a low point, the SIPF has achieved a painful but radical internal reform that, I believe, far outstrips any similar reforms attempted in the past few decades by other forces in the region.”
The Special Coordinator noted the commitment of the acting Police Commissioner Walter Kola and Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Directions and Performance Eddie Sikua to the reform process.
Mr George said the SIPF has been working with RAMSI’s Participating Police Force (PPF) on strategic planning, good governance practices, internal inspection audits and a proactive complaints regime.
“I congratulate the SIPF. To achieve the shift in attitude and behaviour that has occurred is remarkable and it is a testament to the many decent, hard-working Solomon Islands police who have seized the opportunity to remake their force.”
The Special Coordinator noted that the corrosive impact of corruption in undermining institutions and people’s confidence in them has far reaching consequences in small developing nations which are still in the process of building their economies, basic infrastructure and integrity systems.
“Exposing the link between corruption and arrested development, allowing people to join the dots that connect the moral state of their leaders and their nation with its economic health, is one of the keys to combating corruption,” he said.
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| EX LIVERPOOL PLAYER IN TOWN |
SIBConline News
Moffat Mamu on 29 March, 2007 - 5:39pm. Sport
IN his little office at the CEMA Building, Port Cruz, Terry O’Donnell sits unnoticed but he’s a man that every soccer fanatic would like to talk to.A former Liverpool striker and the only victorious Vanuatu coach, O’Donnell is in the country for a short stint not to play football but to help Solomon Islanders with rural development on a World Bank project.
O'Donnell who once played with Liverpool plays a low profile on his job but outside of his job he follows football like any mad fan.Vanuatu is one country that will never forget him because he is the only man that led them to their only Melanesian Cup triumph about 17 years ago and created history by beating the Socceroos during his reign as their coach.
Accidentally he met-up with his one time first eleven player Harry Atisson, who was here last week to officiate the match between Marist and AS Temanava of Tahiti. "Everybody in Vanuatu remembers the name," says Attison when he introduced himself to me this week.
To another extreme - nobody knows him in downtown Honiara or even in the corridors he’s working as he keeps a low profile and confines to his job.One of the biggest contributions to that is the nature of his job, which limits him from outdoor activities except to glue him to his table.But today, the former Liverpool man hopes to catch a glimpse of football by heading to the soccer pitches to watch the DJ League.The Solomons, in his opinion, is fast becoming a powerhouse of football in the region especially with its recent achievements in the last World Cup qualifiers.
In contrast, he believes, Vanuatu soccer is on the nosedive since his departure in the early 90s because of the axing of the school of excellence program he once introduced.He believes that with Australia now joining Asia, there’s likelihood of an island nation qualifying to the World Cup.Attison who officiated during many Solomon Islands matches including the famous 2-2 draw with Australia in 2004 further endorsed that.He rates the Solomons as the best team in Oceania.
He said the Solomons has great potential to be top contenders in Oceania as they have the players to do it.O’Donnell believes that Ni Vanuatu and Solomon Islanders are more skilful compared to their Fijian counterparts who are more physical.Atisson said Solomon Islands has played a rare blend of football with English influence whilst Vanuatu is more of French.But he rates SI above their Melanesian neighbours.
O’Donnell believes that the two neighbours have a good chance of making the world stage of the world game given their skill and passion for football.He played for Liverpool from 1967-8 during which he got 100 pounds per week.Today Liverpool’s stars are paid in millions not hundreds.
Despite that, O’Donnell whose family members support Everton not Liverpool recalls that it was big money.During his two years he played along side one of England’s great strikers Roger Hunt who was a World Cup winner.He then moved on to New Zealand straight after and in 1981-84 he played for the All Whites.In 1987 he moved to Vanuatu as the manager of Melitco Company during which he involved in the Port Villa soccer.
From 1988-93 he was the Vanuatu national coach, during which he led the Vanuatu side to a 1-0 win over Australia and won the Melanesian Cup.He clearly remembered that the Solomon team was on their way home and were in the same plane as their Vanuatu competitors and they even joined them for the victory parade in the Vila street.
Now a Kiwi, O’Donnell still follows football especially his English team. He was disappointed with their 1-1 draw over the weekend but hopes for a better result against Andora this morning.When asked if he would take an offer to coach the Solomons, O’Donnell said “yes”.He said he’s still very much interested in coaching and believes that one day he’ll return to the islands to do the job he really loves.
The Englishman believes that with proper coaching the islanders can do very well at the world stage.With the little time he has, O’Donnell hopes to see as much football as he can to get a taste of what local soccer is like.But for now he’s much into the business of getting his job done with the World Bank before any thoughts of the round ball comes to mind. |
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| Date yet to set for Afeau’s decision |
 Solomonstar news
Moffat Mamu on 29 March, 2007
A DATE to deliver the decision on whether or not the sacking of the former Attorney General is lawful has not been set by the three judges in the Court of Appeal yesterday.Lawyers representing the Judicial Legal Service Commission, the government and the Acting Attorney General made their final submissions to the Court of Appeal to rule on the case yesterday.
Former Attorney General, Primo Afeau is questioning the power of the Legal Service Commission to revoke him from his position as the country’s Attorney General.The three court of Appeal judges, Justices Peter Salmon, Michael Adams and Justice Lord Slynn in the course of the submissions have said that if the sacking of the former Attorney General is unlawful then he is still the attorney general of the country.
They however, stated that this is an important case and that they would need time to make their decision.Mr Afeau was sacked last year following a row between the Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, over the two controversial terms in the Terms of Reference of the Honiara April 18th riots Commission of Inquiry.
He advised the executive of the Sogavare Government to remove the two terms because of possible contempt of court since the Commission of inquiry will be open to the public and that court hearings relating to the riot taking place around the same time.The two terms were related to the detention and circumstances surrounding the arrest of two Honiara MPs, Charles Dausabea and Nelson Ne’e for their alleged involvement in the riot.  Seen in the above picture is the MP Charles Dausabea being escorted by police officers in relation to the Chinatown riots. The two MPs are now currently on bail.
Afeau’s action resulted in the PM losing confidence in him as principal legal adviser and opted for Julian Moti as his replacement. |
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| USP STUDENTS SEEK ARMY HELP |
 FijiSun News
29/03/07
The University of the South Pacific Student Association has sought the military’s assistance to investigate the alleged abuse of association funds by executives from September 2004 to May 2005. (Seen in the picture are last years USPSA members with the Vice Chancellor Anthony Tarr).
Association president Ruiti Tawanang said it had been resolved in the second student council meeting for the matter to be reported to the military.
"One of the student, Gabriel Penjueli, who led an investigation in 2006, had been given the task to prepare all the evidence and submit it to the military. It has been long overdue," said Ms Tawanang.
Mr Penjueli said the association had sought the military’s help as the alleged perpetrators were migrating. He said main witnesses that had been studying at USP at that time had completed their studies and left. The audit report has revealed that more than $87,000 was abused by this executive between 2004 and 2005. |
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| SOMARE PAYS TRIBUTE TO FOUNDERS OF SPEARHEAD GROUP |
 PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea (The National, March 27) – Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare paid tribute to the founding fathers of Melanesia, when signing the historic Melanesia Spearhead Group constitution last Friday. [PIR editor’s note: The Melanesian Spearhead Group comprises the four Melanesian states of Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Fiji. The Group signed the region’s Preferential Trade Agreement in 1994 - a sub-regional trade treaty established to foster and accelerate economic development through trade relations.] Sir Michael, who is also the chairman of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, signed the  constitution along with the prime ministers of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu Manasseh Sogovare and Hami Lini respectively, Fiji’s interim foreign minister and representatives of FLNKS (New Caledonia) in Port Vila last Friday. In his speech after the signing ceremony, Sir Michael paid tribute to the founding fathers of Melanesian Spearhead Group, who included the former prime minister of Solomon Islands, the late Solomon Mamaloni, and the former prime minister of Vanuatu, the late Fr Walter Lini. "I pay tribute to the founding fathers of Melanesia for their foresight in setting up the foundation for the people of Melanesia to collectively help each other," Sir Michael said. "The foundation has set up our people as we share the same customs and traditions that have  been carried on for thousand of years and the signing of this constitution marks that special relationship that we people in Melanesia share. Melanesian Spearhead Group is the promoter of our cultures and tradition through this constitution that will guide us. The constitution also agrees for our countries in Melanesia to work together as team for the promotion of our economic and trade activities, which would go a long way in assisting our people’s way of life in Melanesia." Sir Michael and other Melanesian leaders signed the constitution at Port Vila witnessed by the head of State of Vanuatu Kalkot Matas Kelekele. |
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| Solomon Islands lawyers share knowledge and experience |
PFnet News.com
29/03/07
The Honourable Chief Justice of the High Court of Solomon Islands, Sir Albert Palmer (on the left in the picture), has urged the legal profession to learn from each other and continue to develop their professional skills.
The Chief Justice was speaking at the opening of a continuing legal education program bringing together many of the nation’s lawyers on Wednesday (28 March 2007).
"We must all remain on top of our professional work and aspire to do our work better. Judges are no exception. To do this requires training, discussion and debate," Sir Albert said.
"I am pleased that we have the resources in this country to undertake this kind legal training here, to use our own expertise and to make it available to many of our lawyers. If we had to send people overseas to continue their legal education, the opportunity would be limited to just a few people.
"The Chief Justice thanked the Solomon Islands Bar Association and the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands Law and Justice Program for responding to his request to support this ongoing training program.
The Continuing Legal Education Program began last year with the assistance of RAMSI’s Law and Justice program.
As a result of feedback from the 2006 workshops, this year’s program includes an emphasis on ethics and professional responsibilities, as well as family law. Observing the workshop, Ms Christine Fowler from the Law and Justice Program noted the value of this type of training.
"It is important to build the capacity and skills of lawyers as this strengthens the legal system and ensures greater access to justice for those who need it," Ms Fowler said.
"For example, when lawyers are trained in family law, families can access legal advice and help when they are in trouble, for things like divorce, domestic violence issues and property disputes. This can be particularly important for women."
The legal skills workshop and “moot” or mock court training will also focus on criminal and civil proceedings. It is aimed at legal professionals from the Public Solicitors Office, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
It coincides with a short High Court vacation, giving lawyers the opportunity to attend this intensive program – three days this week, and two further days after Easter.
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| CHAIRMAN OF COMPANY TURNED BACK |
SIBConline news
12:11 hrs
29/03/2007
About 200 workers of the Russell Islands Plantation Estates Limited, RIPEL, yesterday refused to let Chairman of the company, Patrick Wong get off a helicopter which landed at Yandina wharf.A fisherman in the Russell Islands, Yorsefa Leo, reports from Yandina at the incident happened about mid-day yesterday.
Mr Leo says the people petitioned Mr Wong who was leading a four-member delegation to Yandina with two demands."No fair representation in the delegation led by Mr Wong. The second demand was that striking workers want to see that while cases relating to the strike issue of International Comtrade Shipping Limited, ICSI, are before the court, they do not like any disturbances or development there."
Mr Leo says all parties to the strike issue must wait for the court to decide on pending cases before anything is done.He says Mr Wong and his delegation returned to Honiara safely after some discussions with police and union officials at Yandina.
Mr Wong's company I-C-S-L is the overseas shareholder in RIPEL. |
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| Airlines acquire new jet |
Solomon Star news
by Moffat Mamu on 29 March, 2007
SOLOMON Islands national carrier, Solomon Airlines have acquired a new aircraft jet which will serve its international route soon.
A delegation from Solomon Airlines led by Manager of Commercials Wilson Ne’e is currently in Brisbane to inspect the new airbird.The delegation with members of the local media will today visit the hanger and see the new aircraft, which is a jet.
The jet is currently undergoing refurbishing work both internal and external now going through its final stages.According to Ne’e the deal to get the new jet is a damp lease which is going for a longer term.Solomon Airlines in partnership with an Australian airline service Sky Airway have struck the deal recently.He said Sky Airway have sourced the aircraft for the Airlines to utilize it.
The aircraft is a new generation jet unlike the current classic aircraft which is old and is and manually controlled.It has computerized cockpit in which everything is done at touch of a button.The jet is only two years old, much smaller but faster and is fuel efficiency.The arrival of the aircraft to Honiara and its opening is yet to be decided.
The local media was not allowed from not taking pictures of the whole body of the aircraft except for its interior part until its grand-opening. |
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| SPORTS: WAITAKERE DEPART FOR O-LEAGUE SHOWDOWN |
Oceaniasoccer.com
Wednesday, 28th March 2007
With the distractions of appeals and delays over the NZFC behind them, Waitakere United head away to New Caledonia this week for a crucial away tie in the Oceania Champions League.The match on Sunday against Mont Dore begins the most important and demanding fortnight in the history of the club, with fixtures against Auckland City in both the O-League and the NZFC Grand Final still to come.
Head Coach Steve Cain says his players have been well prepared for the demands of away travel."We have spent a great deal of time preparing the players for everything that such a trip can throw at them. The travel will be tiring and the lure of the swimming pool and beaches will be an unwanted distraction from the job at hand - and that is before we even get to the match itself."
"We have enjoyed a successful season to date but just how we will look back on the past 6 months will largely depend on how we perform over the next few weeks. We are under no illusions that Mont Dore will be a different proposition at home and at full strength."Cain will travel without his club captain with Danny Hay (international duty) but will otherwise take a full strength squad to Mont Dore.
Daniel Ellensohn, Michael White, Marcel Isakowitz and Mikael Munday are not eligible for the O-League but such is the depth in the squad this season, Cain is confident others are ready to perform.
"Much of what we have achieved this year has been down to the depth in the squad and the experience we have been able to call on. Former youth international Jason Rowley is back after another injury lay off and has been training well and I have every faith in George Suri and Rupesh Puna to lead the side defensively in Danny's absence."Waitakere are not concerned either with mathematical calculations with regards winning Group A. A win over Mont Dore will leave Waitakere needing a draw against Auckland in their final game and that is the bottom line for Cain, winning.
"Nothing less than a win is our goal on Sunday and while we must play with a degree of caution as the away side, we will be targeting three points. In doing so we must overcome the travel, hot conditions and the intimidation of the local fans but I am confident we can come away with the right result."Waitakere will return and without delay face Auckland City in the final group match at Kiwitea Street on Wednesday April 4th in what promises to be one of the most demanding and exciting club matches in the history of New Zealand Soccer.
Quite possibly it will be winner takes all in terms of qualification to the home and away O-League finals against Fijian champions Ba. |
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| FINANCE MINISTER GETS TOUGH ON ACCOUNTING OFFICERS |
Department of the Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet.com
By George Herming
The Minister of Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo today announced a number of policies aimed at strengthening financial management by government ministries this year.
The policies were contained in a finance circular issued to all government accounting officers which reminded them of their roles and responsibilities under the Public Finance and Audit Act and the Financial Instructions.
He warned accounting officers to stick to the rules of public financial management.
“Ignorance of the content of Financial Instructions shall not be accepted as an excuse where a public officer causes any loss whatsoever to government or creates any error or inaccuracy in any record of any type,” Mr Lilo warned.
Mr Lilo Permanent Secretaries who are accounting officers for their ministries have primary responsibility for expenditure control and proper financial management of public funds under their control.
“The permanent secretaries must ensure that public funds are spent effectively to achieve the outcomes and service deliveries expected and desired by the government,” he said.
He said permanent secretaries also have the duty to plan and manage their expenditures carefully over the financial.
The Minister said his Ministry this year has not made any reserves but made full allocation of funds to respective ministries to enable them to plan and carry out the government’s agenda.
“Careful planning is essential, particularly in relation to the management of development projects,” he said.
Under new financial arrangements which will take effect on April 1, Ministries will be required to allow for a period of 14 days for the treasury division upon receipt of correctly completed paperwork to process payment vouchers or raise Local Purchase Orders.
Mr Lilo said expenditures on development projects must get approval from the Prime Minister and Finance Minister where Ministries require the Treasury Division to process documents in less than fourteen days.
“Ministries that regularly seek approval for processing of urgent payments for development projects will be taken as an indication that the permanent secretary of that Ministry is not taking proper care to plan their expenditure,” Mr Lilo said.
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| Wednesday, March 28, 2007 |
| INDIA'S NEW HIGH COMMISSIONER PRESENTS CREDENTIALS |
SIBConline news
18:21 hrs
28/03/2007
India’s new High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Satya P Mann presented his credentials to the Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena in Honiara today.
Sir Nathaniel said the bilateral future of the two countries looks bright and Solomon Islands is ready to support India on global issues.The Governor General expressed optimism in the Indian diplomat to enhance new dimensions for practical realization between the two countries.
Sir Nathaniel also said India’s recent acceptance as a dialogue partner by the Pacific Islands Forum in 2003 opens a new and important chapter in the Pacific Region and India.India's high commissioner Mr Satya who will be based in Port Moresby said India and Solomon Islands enjoy warm relations based on mutual respect and understanding.
Mr Satya said India has followed a long and hard road to national development and is willing to share its experience with Solomon Islands.
The diplomatic relation between Solomon Islands and India was established since May 1987 and has since grown from strength to strength. |
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| CHAIRMAN OF COLLEGE COUNCIL URGES STAFF TO RETURN TO WORK |
SIBCnews.com
18:24 hrs
28/03/2007
The Chairman of the Solomon Islands College Higher Education Council, Clement Kengava, has called on the College Staff Association members to return to work.He re-iterates his call since the matter in dispute between the staff associations members and the College Council has been referred to the Trade Disputes Panel.
The college staff have petitioned the removal of director, Gabriel Taloikwai, accusing him of misconduct in the administration of his duties.But Mr Kengava says the matter is now before the Trade Disputes Panel, therefore the SICHE Staff Executive should respect the law and call off the sit-in strike.
He says the action is illegal and those not attending to their duties in full may be regarded as absent from work.Mr Kengava says the Council is the legal authority of SICHE and he calls on the SICHE Staff Executive to allow the Trade Disputes Panel to carry out its work.
He also questions whether it's right for college unions to seek legal advice from the Attorney General, saying it is a move seeking support outside of the Council's ruling. |
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| SOLOMON ISLANDS PRIME MINISTER RECEIVES VANUATU MEDAL |
Department of the Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet News,
28/03/07
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon Manasseh Sogavare, MP has been awarded the 1st Class Division, the highest order of the Vanuatu medal, along with the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and Chairman of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, Rt Hon Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon Ham Lini Vanuaroroa.
The medals are normally reserved for Heads of States and Governments.
The medals were awarded to the MSG Leaders by the President of the Republic of Vanuatu, His Excellency, Mr Kalkot Matas Kelekele, during the signing of the MSG Agreement in Port Vila, Vanuatu last week in Port Vila.
The medals were given to the Solomon Islands Prime Minister along with his other MSG colleagues for recognition of their work in promoting cooperation and solidarity in their respective countries and the MSG region.
The Interim Foreign Affairs Minister of Fiji Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and the Spokesperson for the FLNKS of New Caledonia, Mr Victor Tutugoro received the 2nd Class Division, the 2nd highest order of the Vanuatu medal for their work in promoting cooperation and solidarity in the MSG region.
The President of the Republic of Vanuatu in presenting the awards to the MSG Leaders congratulated each of them for their work in promoting and advancing the interest of their countries as well as the MSG.
The award ceremony was also witnessed by the Speaker of the Vanuatu Parliament, members of the Vanuatu Cabinet, Ministers and officials from the MSG member countries, members of the Diplomatic Corp, customary chiefs and the media.
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| MALAITA SCHOOLS RECEIVE BOOKS |
SIBConline News
12:21 hrs
28/03/2007
Secondary schools in Malaita province this week received books funded under the European Union 1999 Stabex fund.
Officials from both the EU and the Ministry of Education attended an official hand-over ceremony of the books in Auki on Tuesday in the presence of provincial education authorities and students.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Barnabas Anga said the government believes in investing in its children’s future and in the adequate reform of the education system.
He said the availability of teaching materials was important for conducive learning for teachers and students witnessed by the substantial investment in textbooks. He said the government was serious about education in Solomon Islands and this was demonstrated earlier through the teachers improved conditions of service in the new unified pay structure.
Meanwhile, Mr Anga has also appealed to communities to provide support to their schools because better schools are those supported by their local communities. |
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| FINANCE MINISTER ISSUES DIRECTIVE |
SIBConline news
12:35 hrs
28/03/2007
Minister of Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo has issued a directive for government finances to be controlled.Mr Darcy says Government had taken this initiative to ensure public funds are spend on what they were intended for.
The Finance Minister says this measure also will demonstrate how serious government wants to ensure its finances are not diverted to wrong use.He says under the new directives, all responsible and accounting officers have been called on to comply with the financial regulations and instructions.
Mr Darcy says this means all requisitions must be raised through respective accounting officers 14 clear days before the Treasury Department can issue payment.
Mr Darcy explains that the requirement not only controls government finances but also reduces the time taken by the Treasury department to screen payments. |
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| REGIONAL NEWS: PACIFIC WOMAN LEADER GIVEN HONOUR BY US |
The National Online
By HARLYNE JOKUPORT
Moresby South MP Dame Carol Kidu has won a prestigious award from the United States government.She has been awarded the Secretary of State’s award for International Women of Courage.
Dame Carol was recognised for her courage and leadership in advocating social justice and women’s rights and advancement in PNG.United States ambassador Leslie Rowe announced Dame Carol’s award yesterday describing her as a woman of exceptional courage, who stood up for social injustice and women and children’s issues in PNG.
Ambassador Rowe said Dame Carol was nominated on recommendation from the US embassy, who had recognised her tireless efforts in fighting against poverty, HIV/AIDS and social issues.
A text from the United States under secretary for democracy and global affairs Paula Dobriansky to Dame Carol read:"On behalf of the US Department of State, I would like to congratulate you on your selection by embassy Port Moresby as part of an important group, international women of courage.
“We honour you for your exceptional courage and leadership in advocating women’s rights and advancement in your nation. "Your achievements have helped to create transformative changes within your country and have set a positive example for emerging leaders worldwide."As Secretary Rice noted, 'women of courage are standing up for freedom and human dignity, and the United States stands with them.
We must not forget that the advance of women’s rights and the advance of human liberty go hand in hand'. As we observe International Women’s Day 2007, I thank you for your contributions in furthering the cause of freedom, justice, peace and equality.”Dame Carol Kidu could not attend the presentation due to a death in her family. Ambassador Rowe said the award would be presented to her at a later date.
The announcement of the award coincides with a National Women's Week event where invited guests were invited to view a film "Mighty Times: The Legacy of Rosa Parks. "Guests, mostly women said the film was inspiring about Rosa Parks, a black American heroine and a true woman of courage. She sparked a revolution against the injustice of racial segregation by a simple act of defiance. She refused to give up her seat in a bus to a White Man. |
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| Hands off whistle blower: USP staff |
Fijilive news
Wednesday March 28, 2007
Staff at the University of the South Pacific say they will "fight tooth and nail" to protect those who leaked information on salaries of the regional institution's management.
USP staff association president Dr Mahendra Reddy claims that a head hunt is underway following an e-mail that leaked the purported salary details of eight senior management staff. By Pacific regional standard, the figures are seen to be 'exorbitant', prompting investigation by the Fiji Government that contributed $38m this year to the institution.
"I don't think we need to find out who leaked them. Whistle blowers should be protected. That is the new governance strategy. I am worried that the university wants to go after the whistle blowers," said Dr Reddy.
"The union will see that the whistle blowers do not get touched." The USP has officially denied the claims made in the e-mails, particularly concerning the benefits given its management.
However, Dr Reddy maintains that the pay slips are genuine, but admits that relative to the global market the salaries may not be exorbitant. He has called for an investigation into the financial management of the university.
"There are some major accusations made in regards to financial management. But those are tip of the iceberg. What needs to be done is a detailed audit of financial management at USP." |
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| RAMSI welcomes new Deputy Special Coordinator |
RAMSI.com
Submitted by Anne McCaig on Wed, 28/03/2007 - 10:03am.
Monday 26th March 2007
The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands this week welcomed new Deputy Special Coordinator Dr Jonathan Austin, a senior diplomat with significant experience in the Pacific.
Speaking on Dr Austin’s arrival, Special Coordinator Tim George acknowledged the contribution of New Zealand to the RAMSI partnership with Solomon Islands.
"New Zealand has contributed its best and brightest across the board to this mission and we are very pleased to now welcome Jonathan Austin to the leadership group," Mr George said.
"Jonathan Austin replaces outgoing Deputy Special Coordinator Paul Ash whose achievements have been exceptional. I am confident that Jonathan is equally well prepared to take up the challenges of this post given his previous experience in East Timor and the Pacific.
"We look forward to the contributions of Jonathan Austin and welcome his wife, Salote, and their family to Solomon Islands."
Dr Austin’s most recent post was as Deputy High Commissioner, Pretoria, South Africa. He was the NZ Representative/Consul-General in East Timor from 2000 to 2002, and Deputy High Commissioner to Tonga for three years from 1997.
His appointment as Deputy Special Coordinator is for two years. |
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| PM should accept Downer’s invitation – Fono says |
PFnet News
27 March 2007
The Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare should accept the request by Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer for the government to send a delegation to Canberra for dialogue to mend the sour diplomatic stand-off between the two neighbours.
Opposition leader Fred Fono urges the Sogavare government to accept the request because the official trip to Canberra can pave the way for normalization of diplomatic relations between Australia and Solomon Islands.
He says Prime Minister Sogavare and his colleague Ministers should forget whatever dislikes or differences they may have of Australia, its politics and its leaders, adding the assistance rendered by Canberra towards Solomon Islands is of crucial importance in the rebuilding process.
Mr. Fono says while he can appreciate Mr. Sogavare’s assurance that he always believes in negotiation and dialogue, he needs to respond to Mr. Downer’s request as soon as possible.The diplomatic stand-off and Solomon Islands refusal to extradite suspended Attorney General, Julian Moti to Australia to face child sex charges remain the outstanding obstacles in the Australia-Solomon Islands diplomatic relations.
© Office of the Leader of the Opposition |
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| NEW ZEALAND U20 TEAM LOST TO COSTA RICA IN A WARM UP MATCH |
NZ Soccer.com San Jose, Costa Rica March 24, 2007 All Whites coach Ricki Herbert is adamant New Zealand’s bid to qualify for the 2010 World Cup will be enhanced - rather than hindered - by the football lesson Costa Rica handed his side on Sunday.
The newly crowned Central American champions humbled New Zealand 4-0 with two goals in each half – the last of them a dubious penalty - at San Jose’s Richardo Saprissa Stadium.
It was not the start to 2007 Herbert had hoped for although the result was not entirely unpredictable given that Costa Rica are ranked 79 places above an out-of-season All Whites lineup missing Ryan Nelsen, Simon Elliott and Chris Killen and playing on a foreign artificial pitch.
Herbert was especially disappointed with the defensive hesitancy that gifted Costa Rica 8th and 19th minute goals to Alvaro Sabono and Alonso Solis respectively.
Midfield whiz Bryan Ruiz added Costa Rica’s third when he pounced on a defensive collision between Che Bunce and Tim Brown after 58 minutes before Sabono completed the rout from the penalty spot when All Whites captain Danny Hay was cruelly pinged for hand ball.
The bumpy, bouncy synthetic pitch in Costa Rica’s capital did not help New Zealand but Herbert was not looking for excuses afterwards. He stood by his decision to experiment with a back three and to continually pitch his under-strength All Whites against opponents ranked well above them.
Herbert is convinced the tough build-up will help New Zealand qualify for the Confederations Cup in 2009 by winning in Oceania as well as giving his side a genuine chance in a potential World Cup playoff with Asia’s fifth-ranked team in early 2010.
“Our ambition is to be back on the world stage in 2009 but before then we’re going to take a few beltings along the way…tonight was one of them,” Herbert said.
“But I’ve got no doubt these sorts of hurdles will hold us in good stead when we come to World Cup qualifying in Oceania.
“If you’re not going to learn from nights like this, then I don’t think you’re ever going to learn and I’d rather be facing these nights than sitting at home contemplating what it might be like.”
Herbert knows his decision to play a back three will be put under a media microscope but refuses to believe the experiment backfired. Instead he pointed to defensive hesitancy by players wary of the unfamiliar surface – many of them who haven’t played club football for two months – for Costa Rica’s goals.
It took the introduction of 19-year-old Fulham reserve team playmaker Chris James – on in the 63rd minute for striker Jeremy Brockie – to spark the All Whites. Starting striker Shane Smeltz battled gamely for 90 minutes and central midfielder Ivan Vicelich grew into the game but New Zealand were otherwise let down by a poor first touch and wasted possession.
Herbert said the acid was now on individuals to stand up when New Zealand face 74th-ranked Venezuela on Thursday (11am NZT). Utility David Mulligan joins the side on Monday (NZT) for the match in Maracaibo after playing the full 90 minutes for English League One leaders Scunthorpe United in their draw at Leyton Orient on Sunday (NZT).
“It takes a lot to disappoint me but I was disappointed today. There’s going to have to be some individual responsibility,” Herbert said. “The good thing is the players won’t leave this dressing room without being massively disappointed…we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
Costa Rica 4 (Alvaro Sabono 9, 80 pen; Alonso Solis 19, Bryan Ruiz 58) New Zealand 0. Halftime: 2-0.
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| CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WANTS GOVERNMENT TO INVESTIGATE CLAIMS |
SIBConline news
19:45 hrs
27/03/2007
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the government to investigate allegations of poor governance and corruption inside the Lands Department. Chairman of the Chamber Peter Goodwin says on several occasions in 2005 and 2006 and now again in 2007, the Chamber has raised questions regarding the performance of Lands Department.
Mr Goodwin says the matters raised largely ranged from the unacceptable length of time it takes the Commissioner of Lands and his staff to process applications.He says the Chamber also questions issues surrounding the legality of certain land dealings and ownership transfers and the appropriateness of some re-zoning approvals.
Mr Goodwin says the Chamber has raised concerns at what appears to be, inappropriate behaviour by some people in positions of power and what may be illegal dealings.He says there was little response from government authorities despite several follow-ups. Mr Goodwin says the Chamber questions the tender process and why government sell properties when there is a shortage of housing.
He says the Chamber believes that Good Governance, simple honesty and strict adherence to operating procedures in the public service, provides for a business environment in the country that encourages private enterprise performance and growth. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:13 AM |
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| SENIOR CITIZEN SAYS CORRUPTION IS AN UPHILL CHALLENGE |
SIBConline news
19:48 hrs
27/03/2007
Battle against corruption remains an uphill challenge in the Pacific region, particularly in Solomon islands.Speaker of National Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea highlighted this sentiment when he officially opened the Transparency International Regional Conference in Honiara this morning.
Sir Peter told the conference that the full extend of corruption in the country is yet to be fully realized.He said in most cases, corruption cases have become embedded in our way of life.He said corruption is eating away at the fabric of life and something must be done urgently to address this growing threat.Sir Peter described the evil of corruption as a ball of snow which increases in strength and density as it rolls.
The three-day seminar is being attended by representatives from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, PNG, Vanuatu and Solomon islands.Local representatives also include officials from Non government organisations and the Office of the Auditor General.
Meanwhile Sir Peter has praised Transparency International for its initiative in developing programme to curb corruption in Asia and the Pacific.He said the system puts in place mechanism for measuring anti-corruption efforts and progress and building demand for effective national integrity systems in Asia and the Pacific.
Sir Peter said he was confident the programme will help strengthen the anti-corruption systems and reduce the evils of corruption.But Sir Peter also highlighted the need for more public awareness and understanding of corruption and good governance, saying very little is known at the village level. |
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| Tuesday, March 27, 2007 |
| CYCLONE BECKY EXPECTED TO HIT VANUATU |
RNZI/ Pacnews
Tue, 27 Mar 2007
PORT VILA, VANUATU ---- A tropical cyclone, that has formed northwest of Vanuatu, is expected to affect land areas within the next six to twelve hours.
Seven hours ago, Cyclone Becky was located about 350 kilometers west of the Torres group.
Radio New Zealand International reports the cyclone was moving east southeast at the speed of seven knots.
Vanuatu Met Service forecaster, Abel Kalo said winds at the centre of the cyclone are estimated at about 80 kilometres per hour and intensifying.
“The gale force winds of 35 knots, that’s 65 kilometers per hour, are expected to affect Torba Province in the next six to twelve hours and later extending to Sanma Province.”
Heavy rainfall is also expected over the northern islands that may cause the overflowing of river banks. |
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| GOVERNMENT'S EXIST PLAN FOR MISSION NOT FEASIBLE |
SIBConline news
12:20 hrs
27/03/2007
Auditor General Augustine Floyd Fatai says government's intention to have the Regional Assistance Mission leave by December 2008 is not feasible.
Mr Fatai says the government was planning an exit strategy for RAMSI and has earmarked December 2008 as the latest for RAMSI personnel in Solomon Islands.
But in an interview with SIBC News, Mr Fatai says that time frame is not practicable, because a lot of work still remains to be done with assistance from RAMSI.
Mr Fatai says the assistance provided under RAMSI must be welcomed because its personnel fill in where the country lacks expertise. |
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| SPORTS DEVELOPMENT: SIFF applauds FIFA for granting its third Goal pro |
SIFF.com news
HONIARA, 26 March 2007:
The Solomon Islands Football Federation has greeted FIFA's recent announcement of its success in securing its third Goal Project with delight.
SIFF General Secretary Eddie Ngava says that this third project is part of the Federation's ongoing infrastructure development programme.
He says that FIFA has once again recognized the usefulness of the Goal Project's contribution to football development here in Solomon Islands, hence, the approval of the 3rd Goal Project.
The project application had covered the construction of academies and playing fields in the two (2) provinces, namely Noro in the Western Province and Auki, in Malaita Province.
"Of course these projects would also attract local contributions for which the two respective provinces have given assurance during the initial negotiations made with them during 2006," he adds.
The FIFA Goal Bureau approved and awarded Solomon Islands its third goal project in its meeting on March 23, 2007. This project amounts to US$400,000 (SBD$3.1m)
Speaking in a statement to SIFF president Martin Alufurai, FIFA president Joseph Blatter describes the goal project as one of his priority areas.
"In light of my long-lasting commitment to the universality of football and of the necessary solidarity within the World football family, I am pleased to inform you that your member association is one of the countries selected. This will enable you to realize a third priority project of your association within the framework of football development in your country."
The FIFA president stresses that the all useful information relating to the next steps of the Goal Procedure will be sent to SIFF in the near future.
"I am convinced that you will do your utmost to achieve this project and thank you in advance for all your efforts." |
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| REGIONAL: MINISTRY PROBES USP SALARIES |
FijiTimes News
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
THE Ministry of Education is investigating concerns that senior staff at the University of the South Pacific are receiving exorbitant salaries beyond the institution's means.
Interim Education Minister Netani Sukanaivalu said their representative at the institution was collating data and statistics on the matter.
Documents purporting to be a correct reflection of the salaries belonging to the university's senior staff have been circulated via e-mail. The documents claim that several staff members are paid more than $200,000 in tax-free salaries and one salary was as high as $470,000 tax-free.
The documents' claims are cause for concern and have prompted the ministry to investigate, Mr Sukanaivalu said.
"We can't take this (emails) for granted," he said.
"Our representative is in there and he's collating all these statistics and whatever information we get from our rep then we will decide if we have to take it up with the USP Council," he said. Mr Sukanaivalu said they would present all their findings to the USP Council, which would then decide on the next course of action.
The interim minister's revelation comes as USP's Information Technology Services department embarked on an inquiry into what USP believes were papers doctored to discredit senior staff members.
USP's acting vice chancellor Doctor Esther Williams reassured the institution's staff and students that despite the allegations, their privacy was well protected.
Dr Williams took over as acting Vice Chancellor following the resignation of Anthony Tarr.
Professor Tarr's resignation becomes effective next month.
Her appointment is temporary pending the USP Council meeting at the end of May.
University communications manager Bernadette Hussain said Dr Williams may delegate some of her responsibilities.
"There are no financial implications," she said. |
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| NEW DEPUTY SPECIAL COORDINATOR OF MISSION |
SIBConline News
19:14 hrs
26/03/2007
The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands this week welcomed new Deputy Special Coordinator Dr Jonathan Austin, a senior diplomat with significant experience in the Pacific.Speaking on Dr Austin’s arrival, Special Coordinator Tim George acknowledged the contribution of New Zealand to the RAMSI partnership with Solomon Islands.
He said New Zealand has contributed its best and brightest across the board to this mission and RAMSI is pleased to welcome Jonathan Austin to the leadership group.He said Jonathan Austin replaces outgoing Deputy Special Coordinator Paul Ash whose achievements have been exceptional.
Mr George said he is confident that Jonathan is equally well prepared to take up the challenges of this post given his previous experience in East Timor and the Pacific.
Dr Austin’s most recent post was as Deputy High Commissioner, Pretoria, South Africa. He was the New Zealand's Consul-General in East Timor from 2000 to 2002, and Deputy High Commissioner to Tonga for three years from 1997.
His appointment as Deputy Special Coordinator is for two years. |
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| PM WELCOMES FORMALISATION OF REGIONAL GROUP |
SIBConline news
19:22 hrs
26/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has welcomed the formalisation of the Melanesian Spearhead Group as a legalised sub-regional entity for the promotion and strengthening of trade, cultures, economic and technical cooperation amongst its member states.
Mr Sogavare and his counterparts from Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and New Caledonia last Friday signed a constitutional framework agreement for the MSG in the Vanuatu capital, Port Vila.
The Prime Minister made specific mention of the positive implications for Fiji after the decision to include that country as a signatory to the Agreement.Mr Sogavare said although the developments in Fiji over the past few months have been a concern to all, this is a significant step forward in promoting the unity and solidarity towards the regional neighbour who, despite its recent upheavals, is still an integral part of the Melanesian community.
The Prime Minister said the MSG group had clearly expressed its intent to remain engaged with Fiji by making it a part of the ground-breaking Agreement and endorsing its membership as an independent sovereign state within the region. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:23 AM |
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| TROPICAL DISTURBANCE ADVICE |
SIBConline news
19:20 hrs
26/03/2007
A tropical disturbance advice is current for Rennell-Bellona, Guadalcanal and Makira-Ulawa provinces.The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued a general warning to people in the country not to go out to sea.
It says seas will be very rough, with heavy rain over the three provinces and people should consider action they will need to take as the threat increases.Manoa Tepa, a forecaster with the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service says the tropical low depression was today located 60 nautical miles south of Rennell Island and is moving east between Temotu province and Vanuatu.
Tepa says the Weather office in Honiara is closely watching the low depression which is expected to move away in that direction.He says people must not go out to sea in the next 48 hours.Tepa however says people will start to see some improvement in the weather situation by Wednesday. |
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| Monday, March 26, 2007 |
| MSG: Fiji inclusion not over word change |
FijiLive news
Monday March 26, 2007
The Melanesian Spearhead Group secretariat says MSG leaders felt it was a good idea for Fiji to be included in the signing of their agreement. The signing for the first formal MSG constitution took place in Vanuatu.
Radio New Zealand International reports Fiji’s inclusion came despite earlier representations by MSG leaders that its military-government had been told it wouldn’t be able to sign. However, the chairman of the secretariat, Johnny Koanapo, denies that Fiji’s inclusion was only made possible by last-minute changes to the preamble of the agreement.
The wording of the preamble, relating to the signatories, changed from "government" to "state". Koanapo said the change meant that the agreement would accommodate everybody. "Allowing members to sign, not as governments, but signing in as a state. I think it makes a bit of a difference as far as the legal experts are concerned.
They analysed that and as far as that’s concerned, they said it would be okay for everybody to sign." Koanapo said MSG leaders had already decided to include Fiji before changes were made to the preamble.
Fiji’s Interim Foreign Minister, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau signed the agreement with other MSG leaders last Friday. |
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| PUBLIC SUPPORTS INCLUSION OF GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN RAMSI OUTREACH PROGRAMS |
Department of the Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet News
By Brian WangaGCU Auki
Community leaders in parts of Malaita have supported the inclusion of government officials in the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Island’s (RAMSI) outreach programs in the country.
A former Malaita Premier and Peace worker David Oeta said RAMSI and the Central Government must work closely with the government and key stakeholders in communities to show a spirit of true partnership.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare have recently called for suspension of a nation-wide RAMSI Outreach Program after RAMSI officials held public consultations in Auki, Malaita province two weeks ago.
Mr Sogavare imposed the suspension calling on RAMSI to include government officials in future community outreach programmes because the government is a key partner in RAMSI.
Mr Oeta said including government officials will ensure fair awareness talks between all partners involved, including the Government, RAMSI and Communities.
“If RAMSI has a package for a community outreach program it should have been more inclusive to ensure there is some form of accountability to the people of Solomon Islands in the contents of the awareness talks,” he said.
Auki resident Robert Bilifoa said he believed the reason for suspending the Community Outreach Program was a result of one sided reporting by certain local media accompanying the RAMSI officials.
He referred to a Solomon Star report saying 99 percent of Malaitans support RAMSI was misleading.
“I am not denying that there is support for RAMSI in Malaita but there must be proven facts before making cheap assumptions” |
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| SOCCER: AUCKLAND CITY BEAT MANUWATU TO REACH FINAL WITH WAITAKERE FC |
NZ Herald News
Monday March 26, 2007
By Terry Maddaford
Auckland City's South African goal-grabbers Grant Young and Keryn Jordan yesterday broke YoungHeart Manawatu hearts, scoring a goal each half to earn their side another shot at the big time.
City shrugged off the disadvantage of playing away from home to beat Manawatu 3-1 at Palmerston North's FMG Stadium in the New Zealand Football Championship preliminary final.
The win books City a place in next month's final against long-time rivals Waitakere United in a replay of the season one decider with City needing to win to claim New Zealand's second spot in next summer's O-League.
In a tough, often physical contest, City called on all their experience and recent run of good results to see off Shane Rufer's side.
A well-finished individual effort from Young 11 minutes before halftime gave the visitors the advantage.
In pouncing on a defensive error and drilling a long range shot into the Manawatu goal two minutes into the second spell, Jordan gave the small band of City supporters plenty to cheer about.
Those celebrations were quickly muted when Gustavo Saralegui, who won a spot in the Manawatu starting line-up with Solomon Islander Nelson Sale ruled out with a broken leg, scored from close range a minute later after good work from Benjamin Totori.
The home side were caught out in stoppage time when Jonathan Smith headed home from close range to ensure City's ticket to the final.
City must now beat Waitakere United in the North Harbour Stadium final on April 16 if they are to claim a third straight shot at the Oceania National League.
Waitakere, as minor premieres, are already assured of their O-League spot. If they beat Auckland City in the final, Manawatu, as runners-up in the round-robin, would claim the second spot and a second O-League campaign.
Before the cross-town rivals meet in the season finale, they will clash in what promises to be the game of the season at Kiwitea St on April 4.
At stake will be the top spot in group A of the O-League. That winner will play group B winner Ba (Fiji) home and away to find the Oceania representative in the Club World Cup in December. |
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| SOCCER: NZ QUALIFIES FOR UNDER 17 WORLD CUP |
NZ Herald,
6:45AM Monday March 26, 2007
New Zealand men's under-17s soccer team celebrated qualification for the Fifa World Cup in style with a 4-0 win over New Caledonia yesterday.
New Zealand confirmed their ticket to Korea in August after beating Tahiti 2-1 on Friday, but capped their final Oceania qualifying with a solid win.
A hat-trick from Team Wellington sensation Costa Barbarouses sealed the win. |
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| SPORTS: FOOTBALL FEDERATION PLANS AS UNDER 16 LEAGUE |
SIBConline news
12:50 hrs
26/03/2007
SIFF technical department will soon meet with clubs to look into pressing issues including a proposed Under 16 competition for children in Honiara.
SIFF Development officer Noel Wagapu says the federation considers setting up a competition for the children because of the high level interest among children.He says all clubs in the current Honiara Football Association league are expected to enter their teams for this proposed league.
Wagapu stresses that with the level of interest among children, SIFF feels it is time to introduce a competition for them.However, he says responsibility will be given to clubs to organize the children and form a team for the competition. |
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| SICHE STAFF PLAN SIT IN PROTEST |
SIBConline News
16:08 hrs
25/03/2007
Lectures at the Solomon Islands College of Higher Education face a likely cancellation tomorrow as staff of the college say they will pursue a sit-in protest over a decision by the college council not to remove the college director.
SIBC News understands both college staff union bodies, CHENLA and CHENASA are adamant about a sit in protest despite the case being referred to the Trade Dispute Panel.
Chairman of the College Council, Northwest Choiseul MP Clement Kengava last Friday discouraged staff from taking a sit-in protest as it would affect innocent students.
But speaking for academic staff members of the College, CHENLA president Duddley Hoala says they want to mount an action that has impact to show they are serious about their demand to remove the college director.
The college staff have petitioned the removal of director, Gabriel Taloikwai, accusing him of misconduct in the administration of his duties.A full meeting of the college council found such allegations as having no basis, and referred the matter to the Trade Dispute Panel. |
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| PM BACK FROM VANUATU AFTER SIGNING MSG AGREEMENT |
SIBCnews
16:09 hrs
25/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare returned home this afternoon from Vanuatu where he took part in a meeting of leaders of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, MSG.
The Prime Minister's delegation included the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Patteson Oti.The one-day meeting which took place in Port Vila yesterday enabled MSG leaders to discuss a whole range of issues including the signing of an agreement.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare returned home yesterday. Sir Michael had picked up Prime Minister Sogavare and his delegation last Friday on his way to Vanuatu on a chartered flight from Port Moresby. |
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| Friday, March 23, 2007 |
| SPORTS: Marist earns three match points in final match |
SIFF news.com
HONIARA, 22 March 2007:
Two second half goals from Joe Luwi and James Naka was enough to bring back pride to Solomon Islands soccer and secure the 5th spot in the O' League competition.
The duo combined well to unlock AS Temanava defence and creating chances that went begging in the first half.
Going nil-all into the breather, Marist coaches must have grilled the players to put aside the first half woes to make a fresh start.
It paid dividends when Luwi broke the deadlock minutes after restart. He was on the receiving end of a perfect Naka pass to hammer home past Tahiti's keeper Rudolphe Toromona for the opening goal. It was his third in the tournament.
Naka scored one of his own to wrap up Marist campaign in the O' League competition with three points.
It was a sweet victory for all Solomon Islanders who are passionate about this round ball game.
With three straight loses by Marist starting with their home match with Ba in Honiara and the two away matches in Fiji and Tahiti respectively, many soccer fans had lost all hope in their team.
However, the win has resurrected the pride and passion Solomon Islanders have for football. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:25 AM |
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| HONIARA NEEDS BETTER WATER INFRASTRUCTURE |
SIBConline news
18:58 hrs
22/03/2007
Honiara needs better water infrastructure if its residents are to be provided with enough water supply.
General Manager of the Solomon Islands Water Authority, SIWA, John Waki, said this while answering a question at an occasion marking World Water Day in Honiara.
Mr Waki says investing in water infrastructure is very expensive and needs experts.He says what SIWA is getting from its rates of charges is for the services it is providing at the present which is not enough.
Mr Waki says if SIWA is to integrate high technology facilities, replace pipelines and tanks so that it has capacity, consumers have to pay more.He says the population base is very small to support such a huge infrastructure investment."That's the area perhaps the government can come in and recognises the need to support SIWA, recognises the need to subsidise SIWA, or recognises the need to secure the support for SIWA.
Some initiatives have been done by JICA. We are yet to be informed about any confirmation from JICA." Mr Waki says if things go well under that study and they continue to support SIWA, there will be big investment JICA would put in to infrastructure rehabilitation and upgrading of SIWA. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:22 AM |
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| WORKSHOP FOR CENTRAL KWARA'AE FARMERS |
SIBConline news
18:49 hrs
22/03/2007
Farmers from Central Kwara'ae in the Malaita Province, are attending a four days workshop on improving pork quality in their region.
SIBC correspondent at Auki, Duddley Gani reports that the workshop is aimed at improving the quality of pork that the farmers produce.Gani says at present, Central Kwara'ae is the highest producer of pork meat to butcheries, restaurants, hotels and markets in Honiara, producing up to 50 pork carcasses every week.
Gani says that the training is inline with the Central Kwara'ae Constituency development plans 2006 to 2010, and the Governments bottom-up approach policy.
The workshop is jointly funded by the Republic of China Technical Mission and the Central Kwara'ae Rural Constituency Development Funds, and conducted by the Technical Mission Staff of the Republic of China and Malaita Province Agriculture Division. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:19 AM |
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| Thursday, March 22, 2007 |
| FINANCE MINISTER WANTS CLEAN TAKEOVER OF NATIONAL BANK |
Department of the Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet
By George Herming
The Minister of Finance Gordon Darcy Lilo wants a transparent takeover of the National Bank of Solomon Islands (NBSI) saying the government fully supports the proposition for the PNG-based Bank of the South Pacific (BSP) to acquire NBSI.
Mr Lilo made the announcement today in response to complaints that he had delayed the signing of statutory documents that were required to allow the sale of NBSI to BSP.
The Managing Director of NBSI Peter Goodwin used a local newspaper today to accuse Mr Lilo for delaying the signing of documents which were due on March 16.
But Mr Lilo was unmoved by those accusations saying that he wants to see the current trustees retire shares they manage to a corporate trustee that will distribute benefits directly to indigenous Solomon Islanders.
He was referring to shares given by the Bank of Hawaii to the health, education and employees of NBSI before it withdrew from Solomon Islands.
Mr Lilo says the shares are currently managed by individual lawyers operating the law firm, Sol Law in Honiara.
He said that is the only issue that needs to be transparently sorted out so that the selling of NBSI could proceed.
“I’d like to say to the people of Solomon Islands that I as Minister of Finance fully support the proposition for BSP to acquire the assets and business of NBSI.
“But I want those trusts to be returned to the people of Solomon Islands,” he said.
He said the Bank of Hawaii has given its will for those trusts to be invested for the welfare, health and education of the people of Solomon Islands.
“And now is the time that those trustees will have to be retained to the people of this country.
“That is the whole condition that I’m imposing on this particular issue.
“If those trusts are for the benefit of this country, then they must be retained to the people of this country,” Lilo said.
He said it had been five years already and the trustees haven’t done material things with the shares that should improve the health and education sectors in the country.
“It’s been five years now and there’s nothing being done in terms of the improvement in health, there’s nothing been done terms of the contribution from this trust towards the improvement of the education.
“I did not say that I did not approve the sale of NBSI. It can go ahead on the condition that the trust held by these trustees must be returned to an indigenous corporate trustee in this country.
“That’s my position.
“That is the condition,” he explained.
The Minister has already given a Memorandum of Agreement to the trustees so that the matter can be eventually settled with full commitment between him and the trustees.
“I will sign the salel provided that they will agree to the Memorandum of Agreement that I have given to them.
“I’ve required them to enter into an MOU with me to commit themselves to work towards helping the government,” he said.
Mr Lilo said he has already notified BSP officials about the issue and assured them of the government’s commitment to see BSP takeover NBSI |
| posted by administrator @ 7:28 PM |
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| INCREASE IN NUMBER OF STREET CHILDREN |
SIBConline news
18:53 hrs
21/03/2007
The Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs, Fred Fakari'i has expressed concern about the increasing number of street children, especially in Honiara.Mr Fakari'i says street children are those who leave their homes to live on the streets.He says many of these street population are pushed out of their homes because they could not find love at home. He says their population is growing very fast, that soon they will have their own children and if they are not given a future, they will pass on that lifestyle to their children.
Mr Fakari'i says sex abuse amongst children as young as 12 years is also on the increase, according to a recent report.He says some of them resort to sex in order to meet school fees and their fare on the bus to and from school.Mr Fakari'i highlighted these problems at the opening of a training workshop this morning for parents at Gilbert Camp in east Honiara.
The Home Affairs Permanent Secretary however says government is concerned about these social issues and wants to address them with parents and communities."The government is serious to meet the requirements of International conventions we signed but yet to implement. But before we do that, we want you to know. We want you to contribute, share you ideas with us so we can see our way through on how to meet requirements of international conventions. This is in line with the bottom up approach which government wants to take."Meanwhile, Save the Children's Fund Australia says negligence of children by parents and guardians has been the main concern in Solomon Islands.
Director of Save the Children Fund in Solomon Islands, Ramesh Puri said this at the opening of a workshop to educate parents about the rights of children.Twenty parents and guardians from Gilbert Camp, a suburb of Honiara are taking part in a two-day workshop organised by Save the Children Fund of Australia.Mr Puri says a recent survey carried out by Save the Children Fund found negligence of children by parents in the country is growing at an increasingly alarming rate especially in urban settings.
He says children left on their own especially in the streets of Honiara to scavenge for survival is increasingly becoming a serious concern.Mr Puri says the survey found that many of the children had resorted to prostitution, sexual abuse, drugs and alcohol and crimes such as break-ins and stealing.He says Solomon Islanders have a duty to stop this dangerous trend.He says it is not too late to start now and redirect this course to one which provides a better future for the young people. |
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| EAST HONIARA MP ARRESTED AND CHARGED |
SIBConline news
18:56 hrs 21/03/2007
Police Detectives have arrested and charged East Honiara Member of Parliament Charles Dausabea this morning.
Dausabea attended the National Investigations office at Rove Police Headquarters, accompanied by his lawyer.Mr. Dausabea was charged with three offences; two counts of False Pretence and one count on Conversion.
The East Honiara MP appeared briefly at the Honiara Magistrates Court before Magistrate Frank Kalea.
The Magistrates Court has granted bail with conditions, among others, not to interfere with the prosecution witnesses either directly or indirectly.The case was adjourned to April 18th. |
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| Wednesday, March 21, 2007 |
| CHURCH MEMBER QUESTION CHURCH'S DECISION |
| SIBConline news 12:23 hrs 21/03/2007 A member of the Anglican Church has questioned the decision that the Church's Council of Bishops had taken on the Bishop for Hanuato'o diocese on Makira-Ulawa province, Bishop Johnny Kuper.Earlier this week the Archbishop of the Church of Melanesia Reverend Sir Ellisson Pogo announced the resignation of Bishop Kuper over allegations that he used Church money in an international financial scam. Reverend Sir Ellisson said Bishop Kuper would be appointed to a different position in the Church in due course.But Japhet Limopu, a former employee of the Church of Melanesia head office in Honiara says by taking such decision on Bishop Kuper, the Church is not fair to former Bishops and lay workers it had sacked for similar reasons. Speaking to SIBC News, Mr Limopu says the church in the past sacked Bishops and lay workers for allegations of misappropriation.He says now the Church is telling Anglicans that Bishop Kuper should only resign and given a different position in the Church for almost the same reasons it had sacked others. Mr Limopu says this is not fair, and calls on other Anglicans to come out and question decisions by the Church which they feel are not right. |
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| MALAITA PROVINCE WORKS WITH NATIONAL GOVERNMENT TO SETTLE DEBTS |
Department of Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet
By Brian Wanga (in Auki)
The Malaita Provincial Government is currently working on a financial strategy in collaboration with the Debt Management Unit of the Ministry of Finance to settle debts incurred by the province since 2005.
The Malaita Provincial Treasurer Anna Saeni said yesterday the intervention by the Sogavare-led Grand Coalition for Change Government (GCC) has helped the province to pay its debts to the National Provident Fund (NPF).
The Province had borrowed heavily from NPF to fund the operations of its now defunct Malaita Shipping Company over the years.
"Malaita Province was financially burdened due to large loans borrowed from NPF to operate its shipping fleet.
"But the action taken by the Grand Coalition for Change government to repay the debts has allowed Malaita Province to breathe compared to past experiences when the debt was heavily carried on our shoulders," Ms Saeni said.
The Provincial government is also working on its 2007/2008 budget which is expected to be finalized at the end of this month.
"We can now prioritize payments with our creditors and keep the province financially viable" she added.
Both Malaita and Western Provinces have had their debts cleared by the Grand Coalition of Change Government through payments to Solomon Islands National Provident Fund. |
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| USP SALARIES UNDER SCRUTINY |
FijiLive News
Tuesday March 20, 2007
The salaries of senior staff at the University of the South Pacific has come under the spotlight after leaked documents showed that one executive allegedly received $470, 000 tax free. The confidential documents which purport to be payslips of eight senior staff were sent to e-mails of staff at the regional institution. The documents showed that the salary package of seven staff members ranged from $234, 537.55 to $339,937.46.
Each of them allegedly received $4000/month in housing allowance. Fiji Television reports that an official response from the university labelled the information untrue.
Fiji's Interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry appeared shocked by the revelation. He said that the Fiji Government will have to re-look at its funding of the institution by over $3million this year. He said the Government will conduct an operations efficiency audit.
Deputy army commander Esala Teleni, who heads Fiji's anti-corruption unit, says they are investigating a complaint of abuse of office and mismanagement by an executive of USP |
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| CUBAN DOCTORS TO SOLOMON ISLANDS |
SIBCOnline News
19:24 hrs
20/03/2007
Ten specialist medical doctors from the Caribbean nation of Cuba are to start filling up line positions at the National Referral Hospital by May this year.The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Clay Forau and his Foreign Affairs counterpart Patteson Oti announced in a joint press conference today.The government initially requested 40 medical doctors, but only 10 are immediately available to take up the posts.
More Cuban doctors will fill in as they become available.Foreign Minister Oti said the arrangement to bring in health personnel from Cuba stemmed from a Cooperation Framework Agreement he had just signed with his Cuban counterpart.He said Cuba also offered to provide 50 scholarships for Solomon Islanders to undertake medical training in Cuba.Mr Oti said he was meeting with the Education Minister Dr Derick Sikua this afternoon to sort out details of the training program.
He said Solomon Islands hopes to send its first medical students to Cuba by September this year.Mr Oti said this undertaking has been on the drawing board since year 2000, and is not a sudden undertaking by both countries.The Health Minister Mr Forau said it takes a sick person to appreciate what government is doing.He said government's concern is meeting the need of the most important stakeholder which is the sick patient.
Mr Forau said the arrangement will also provide the opportunity for local doctors to work alongside their Cuban colleagues.He said Public Service recruitment rules and processes will be applied in the selection of the Cuban doctors.Meanwhile, Health and Medical Services Minister Mr Forau says getting medical doctors from Cuba is much cheaper than recruiting from the international open market.He says to get a doctor from the open market would cost about 400-thousand dollars a year.Mr Forau says the total package of local doctors stands at 170-thousand dollars, whilst doctors from Cuba will be getting 180-thousand dollars in the first year they arrive.He says the amount will be reduced in their second or third years.
The minister says the their annual packages for the first year is higher because it includes their airfares which the Solomon Islands government is meeting.Mr Forau say government is only paying the Cuban doctors an allowance of 300-US dollars a month, whilst the Cuban government meets the rest.The minister says the Cuban doctors are here to help local doctors and not take away their privileges.
" We want to encourage our local doctors that these people are here to help them. Some will be here to help them carry the load they have been carrying. If I were a doctor I will see it as a good thing. They will be here to help the local doctors, not to take away their privileges. We will have a mechanism in place to ensure the doctors comply with the arrangements they sign."Foreign Minister Oti says the Cuban doctors will also be accorded the same conditions which government has applied to similar recruitment arrangements. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:48 AM |
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| MALAITA GEM STONES |
SIBConline news
19:18 hrs
20/03/2007
Resource owners of East Malaita have been reminded to stop selling what they say are "gem stones" to those without licences from the Malaita Provincial Government.Senior Administration Officer at Atori in East Malaita, Gregory Angisia, issued the reminder because this practice had been going on for sometimes in the province.
Mr Angisia says buyers who don't have licence under the Malaita Business Licence Ordinance Act to buy gem stones would be committing a crime under the Ordinance.
He says the ordinance is to safeguard resources of landowners and that proper procedures are followed in such dealings."I want to assure land resource owners of East Malaita, especially East Kwara'ae and East Fataleka that from now selling of gem stones to any local buyer who does not have a licence from the provincial authority, it's an offence under law for people to continues such practices.
I also like to appeal to local buyers too, that if this is done illegally, then this practice must stop." Meanwhile, Mr Angisia says they making arrangements with an overseas group to go to East Malaita to test and verify if those stones are gems. |
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| SPORTS: BA BEATS AS TEMANAVA TO ENTER THE FINAL OF THE O LEAGUE |
FijiTimes
ZANZEER SINGHWednesday, March 21, 2007
SUPER sub Tuimasi Manuca scored the second half winner against AS Temanava to guide Ba into the final of the O League competition next month.
Ba defeated the champion Tahitian club 1-0 at Churchill Park in Lautoka to edge closer to the $1.6 million prize purse.
Manuca was the star for the Ba side as he came on as a replacement for injured striker Osea Vakatalesau and scored in the 72 minute.
Ba coach Yogendra Dutt was elated with the win saying his boys prevailed under pressure.
Dutt said there were early concerns when Vakatalesau had to leave the field on 35 minutes.
"However, the boys hung in there," Dutt said.
"This was by no means an easy match. We struggled in defence. This is due to injuries. Our sweeper Malakai Kainihewe had a heavily strapped knee.
"Striker Kiniviliame Naika was ruled out prior to the encounter.
"An during the match Osea was injured. Despite all the setback I praise the boys for a grand effort.
"They played gallantly and deserved this victory."
Playing in front of over 5000 fans Ba stamped its authority displaying superior attacking football.
Vakatalesau and Shalen Lal were a thorn for the AS Temanava defence as they penetrated even on half chances which came their way. Vakatalesau broke through the Tahitian defence in the second minute but his cross failed to find any Ba player in the box to finish off.
Avinesh Swamy missed a sitter in the eighth minute when his attempt was blocked by AS Temanava goalkeeper Rudolphe Toromona.
The goal post saved Ba in the 13th minute after AS Temanava striker Jean Michel Rigoulot hit the upright from a quickly taken free kick.
Lal failed to get his attempt past the opposition goalkeeper three minutes later following brilliant count moves. AS Temanava survived a foray of attacks with a goal line scramble saving the visitors in the 40 minute.
Ba kept up the momentum in the new spell with Keni Doidoi skying the ball over the crossbar from close range.
Ba's defence was shaken in the 16th minute when Rene Saloa found himself free inside the box but his right footer curled wide of the cross bar.
Manuca broke the deadlock when he ran onto a pass from Bukalidi and slammed the ball to the left of Toromona.
AS Temanava nearly equalised moments later when Ba was guilty of another defensive blunder.
Patua Tetuanui dribbled past Tuba but his short from an acute angle went across the goalmouth.
The winner of the O League will qualify for the FIFA World Club Championship in Japan this December.
Ba will face the winner of the final Group a fixture between Waitakere and Auckland City later this week. Auckland is the defending champion.
AS Temanava will host Marist FC in the final match this weekend. The result of this encounter will have no bearing in Group B as Ba finished unbeaten with three wins and a draw.
Ba: Laisenia Tuba, Avinesh Swamy, Shalen Lal, Jone Vesikula, Josaia Bukalidi, Keni Doidoi, Peni Finau, Luke Vidovi, Osea Vakatalesau, Malakai Tiwa, Malakai Kainihewe.
AS Temanava: Roberto Poiroi, Maheanuu Apapari, Wellver Neti Clark, Jean Francois, Kabeu, Pierre Kugogne, Jean Michel Rigoulot, Rudolphe Toromona, Ionatana Aldo, Vahine, Rene Saloa, Patua Tetuanui. |
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| Tuesday, March 20, 2007 |
| SPORTS: Spectator attacks Lampard after FA Cup tie |
Guardian Unlimited
By Ken Ferris
LONDON, March 19 (Reuters) - An angry fan raced on to the pitch and threw a punch at Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard after his side beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 in an FA Cup quarter-final replay on Monday.
Lampard, who was celebrating with team mates, ducked to miss the punch and the spectator was manhandled to the ground before being led away by security men.
"...maybe the security people slept a little bit. They could never believe the guy could come on to the pitch and chase my players. But it was no problem," Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho told reporters. "They (security staff) have to be alert in future. Frank Lampard is ok. He's happy with the victory. Everything else is secondary.
A Tottenham spokesman said "two people entered the field of play and have subsequently been arrested".
One was a Chelsea supporter while the other was a Spurs fan who reacted after Mourinho's players ran towards their own supporters at the Park Lane end of the ground to celebrate.
"Frank said the man went crazy, coming from nowhere," Mourinho earlier told Sky Sports. "Three, four or five people had to catch him before the security men came.
Spurs manager Martin Jol added: "That's not something you like to see but what can I do about it? We don't want that. You have to take your disappointments on the chin." |
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| MOTI AFFAIR: AUSTRALIA GIVES ULTIMATUM TO PNG |
The National Online
20/03/07
AUSTRALIAN Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said yesterday the Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum would be cancelled this year if action was not taken to prosecute those involved in the illegal flight of Julian Moti to Honiara.
In a keynote speech at the 23rd Australia-PNG Business Forum in Cairns yesterday, Mr Downer said that once the report of the PNG Defence Board of Inquiry was published, Australia "expected some people to be brought to justice".
The final report on the inquiry was handed over to the Prime Minister's office last Friday, but lawyers representing the Prime Minister are going to court to annul the entire inquiry, which would result in the report becoming meaningless if they succeed.This would result in the Downer threat being carried out, and sources said other sanctions may follow.
PNG Foreign Minister Paul Tiensten reportedly expressed little hope yesterday that the ministerial forum would take place, while Deputy Prime Minister Don Polye told reporters in Port Moresby yesterday that the Government would be careful about making the report public or implementing its recommendations because the inquiry headed by Justice Gibbs Salika had stepped out of line and its credibility questioned.
"We do not want to see wrong people destroyed," he said, adding the Prime Minister and the Government played no part on the escape of Julian Moti on Oct 10, 2006 using a PNGDF plane.
Mr Polye even surprised reporters by insisting that no Civil Aviation laws were broken in that flight because the Defence Force did not need CAA permission or laws to carry out that flight, almost sanctioning the flight as lawful.
In a live interview with FM100's John Rei in Cairns, Mr Downer said it was most unlikely that the Defence inquiry report would be able to pinpoint those involved in the illegal flight of Moti from Port Moresby to Honiara. He said the inquiry had undertaken a good and objective process. "We didn’t conduct the inquiry. It is up to them to produce their report. We are not setting ourselves up as judge and jury," he said.
"If it recommends action against certain people we would expect action to be taken against them."Mr Downer also disclosed that Moti had evaded police in India, where an attempt was first made to arrest him, and Australian authorities had decided to pick him up during a stopover in Port Moresby.
The Australian Foreign Minister said he had been upset that someone wanted on child sex charges could be whisked out of Papua New Guinea on a defence aircraft.The arrest of Moti would have been "the right thing to do among friends", he said, adding that Moti’s flight out of PNG "was a very unfriendly thing to do to Australia.
"I was very hurt and the feelings of the Australian people were hurt. We will put this affair behind us once the report is published and action taken." In his speech to 270 conference attendees, Mr Downer said PNG will always have a special place in Australian foreign policy.
"There will be good and bad moments but in the end it will be an important and special relationship," he said, referring to the role Australia and New Zealand had played in bringing peace to Bougainville. Mr Downer said PNG had an important role to play in the Pacific and had a commonality of views on the recent military coup in Fiji and with PNG’s important role in the Regional Assistance Mission on the Solomon Islands.
"PNG will double the number of police there (RAMSI)," he said. Mr Downer said he was impressed with PNG’s recent economic performance although he was disappointed at the recent cancellation of the PNG Gas Project.
In recent years the quality of economic management in PNG has been "laudable and impressive" and Australia was pleased to have made a contribution through the Enhanced Cooperation Programme. He said the 42 Australians working under the ECP had been helping to "turbo-charge" PNG's administrative capability by contributing to the budget process, efficiency of tax system and in improving customs and other Government services."We had a grander plan which the PNG Supreme Court shot down and we have to respect that but we hope to continue to build on what has been achieved."Mr Downer said PNG had done really well in recent years with growth this year likely to total around 5% with low inflation and growth in employment, a turnaround from the negative economic performance prior to 2002. |
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| High commissioner meets Solomons PM |
Sydney Morning Herald news
March 19, 2007 - 7:04PM
Australia's new high commissioner to the Solomon Islands has finally met with Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare after being kept waiting for weeks due to a diplomatic dispute with Canberra.
Peter Hooton presented his letter of introduction to Sogavare on Monday afternoon and was introduced to the Solomons Cabinet.
Sogavare told reporters after the meeting that it was an important milestone on the way to resuming dialogue and getting the relationship between Honiara and Canberra back on track.
"It is therefore important that we mend this relationship. What happened today is a giant step forward," he said.
Australia and the Solomons were close neighbours with much in common as Australia was much involved in the development of Pacific countries, Sogavare said.
Hooton also said the meeting was a good one.
"The dynamics were positive. The PM went through the issues, as he sees them, and I listened very carefully to that," he said.
"It's good that I can do the rest of the job now.
"I think we still have a lot of work to do, but this is a good step in the right direction."
Sogavare last week said he would meet Hooton in a bid to repair relations, despite Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer's refusal to apologise for an open letter he wrote to Solomon Islanders.
Sogavare was incensed by the letter, published in local newspapers last month, accusing him of trying to tarnish the reputation of the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
Since his election as prime minister in May last year, Sogavare has made it clear he wants less RAMSI influence in his government and less Australian influence in RAMSI.
In his letter, Downer called on Solomon Islanders to support RAMSI and oppose Sogavare's plans to rearm police, a plan the prime minister has since dropped following widespread public opposition.
Last year, Sogavare ejected former Australian High Commissioner Patrick Cole, accusing him of interfering in Solomons political affairs and trying to undermine a planned commission of inquiry into last year's April riots in Honiara.
RAMSI arrived in 2003 to restore law and order and good governance following years of ethnic unrest. |
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| TAXPAYERS OWE GOVERNMENT MILLIONS OF DOLLARS |
SIBConline news
18:39 hrs
19/03/2007
The Inland Revenue Audit has revealed that taxpayers still owe the government more than 11 million dollars for the year 2006.Acting Commissioner of the Inland Revenue Division of the Ministry of Finance, Ronnie Piva says the audit for last year assessed additional income of 11-point-two-five million dollars.Mr Piva says the audits covered a broad spectrum of taxpayers, including financial institutions, shipping agents, high wealth individuals, retailers, wholesalers and a local exporter. "These are some of the income that had never been properly declared. We have found out that they have never submit the returns too, or may be the income of the return submitted were under-declared. Those are the areas my Minister of Finance mentioned in our 2007 audit strategy. Those are the areas that will be covered, we know most of the businesses are the high wealth, the high profile taxpayers, those businesses and individuals operating outside the tax system."Mr Piva says while the results from a financial return point of view are pleasing, it's disappointing to see that most of the businesses we audited, did not fully comply with their legal obligations. He says in the case of one business the Division audited last year the auditors identified over two-point-five million dollars in taxes that were not paid. Mr Piva therefore calls on Solomon Islands taxpayers to fully comply with their legal tax obligations and ensure they file correct tax returns and pay all taxes due. |
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| ANGLICAN BISHOP OF HANUATO'O RESIGNS |
SIBConline news
18:41 hrs
19/03/2007
The Anglican Bishop of Hanuato'o diocese in Makira-Ulawa province, Bishop Jonnie Kuper has resigned amidst pressures from international scam.
Church of Melanesia Archbishop, Reverend Sir Ellison Pogo in a statement says the Diocese of Hanuato'o has suffered from a sophisticated international scam which has had a serious effect on its finances.
Reverend Sir Ellison says Bishop Kuper feels the trust and confidence of the people can only be restored if he is replaced by a new Bishop. He says Bishop Kuper has the support of the Council of Bishops, and he will be appointed to a different role in the Church.
Reverend Sir Ellison says a date for the election of a new Bishop of Hanuato'o has not yet been set, but Anglicans are asked to keep the Diocese, Bishop Kuper and his family in their prayers. |
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| AUSTRALIA HIGH COMMISSIONER PRESENTS CREDENTIALS |
SIBConline news
18:43 hrs
19/03/2007
Australia's High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Peter Hooton today presented his credentials to Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare after waiting to be received for almost two months.The Prime Minister however said today's ceremony was an important milestone in mending the two countries' strained relations. Mr Sogavare said it was a very important gesture by the Solomon Islands government, and he urged Mr Hooton to take it as a gesture of goodwill.He told a gathering of members of the Cabinet and local journalists that relations between Solomon Islands and Australia have come under a lot of pressure because of misunderstanding.The Prime Minister said issues before the two countries demand solutions and, problems are problems unless they have solutions.He said it is only appropriate to have Mr Hooton on the ground to address those issues with both governments." I made it very clear to his excellency that Australia and Solomon Islands are very close neighbours. Australia plays a very important role in regional security and stability. Very heavily involved in development of regional countries and its position in the region is very clear to us. And for that reason it is important that we mend this relation. I would like to announce that what happened this afternoon is a giant step forward taken by Solomon Islands government to start to seriously address those issues we have on the ground. On behalf of Solomon islands government, people of Solomon islands, belated though it may be, High Commissioner, welcome to Solomon islands and lets move on."Meanwhile, Mr Hooton said he was honoured and warmly welcomed the opportunity to present his letter of introduction from Prime Minister John Howard Mr Sogavare, introducing Mr Hooton as High Commissioner to the country.Mr Hooton said he came to Honiara both as the representative of the Australian government and a friend of Solomon Islands.He said he hopes to get to know Solomon Islands more better, and to be an effective and helpful Australian representative in the country." I do not under estimate the range and complexities of some of the issues that confront us. But I believe with the necessary spirit of goodwill and dialogue that I know we can establish, these issues are very capable of resolution and some of them I would hope quite quickly. And I look forward to work closely with the Prime Minister and members of his team, with the public service and others in Solomon Islands to address some of those issues." |
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| Monday, March 19, 2007 |
| Australia refuses to grant clearance |
SIBCOnline news
19 March, 2007 - 12:12pm.
By A SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
AUSTRALIA is refusing to grant Solomon Airlines clearance to fly into and out of Brisbane via Santo in Vanuatu, airline and civil aviation sources have confirmed.The sources said Australia’s stand is costing the national carrier tens of thousands of dollars in lost revenue every week.Sources said the national carrier applied for clearance about August last year. It wants to fly the Brisbane-Honiara route via Santo on Tuesday and Saturday. Its return flights the next day would also go through Santo.However, Australia has declined the application, officials said.Solomon Star was unable to get any comments from either the Solomon Airlines management or its board yesterday.Board Chairman, Martin Maga, left the country last Thursday for Brussels on ACP business.Mr. Maga is the Chairman of Solomon Islands Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee.It is public knowledge within civil aviation and airline circles that Australia’s decision is linked to the continuing stand-off between Honiara and Canberra.It is understood that initially there were encouraging signs the licence would be granted in no time. However, there’s been a dramatic change in the mood since the stand off began earlier this year.“No one on the Australian side wants to talk to us about this anymore. It’s a worrying situation. Each time we call, you would be put through a junior officer who just worked you through the system,” one airline official said.Solomon Airlines is understood to be very concerned about the financial implications of the protracted delay.“It has the potential to cripple Solomon Airlines, which has been dependent on its international sector to finance its domestic routes,” one source said.Solomon Airlines’ decision to drop Port Vila from its new service was to help the Vanuatu Government in promoting Santo as the country’s new commercial centre.Santo is also being promoted as the hub of Vanuatu’s growing lucrative tourism industry which Air Vanuatu does not have the capacity to service.Solomon Airlines’ inaugural flight into Santo planned for last December was booked out weeks before. These had to be canceled in the last minute due to non-clearance.Solomon Airlines is understood to be hurting financially because its lease of a Boeing 737-300 jet from a Spanish company was linked to the arrangement to service the Santo’s tourism market out of Australia.The national carrier now services the Santo market via Honiara. Its Tuesday service to Nadi returns to Honiara the next day via Santo. Its Saturday service to Nadi stops over in Santo.And there seems to be takers.“Who wants to fly all the way to Honiara just to get to Santo? It is expensive,” one regular traveler said recently.Most worrying to the airline is the return service from Nadi. Most flights are virtually empty. The flight from Nadi on 7 March was a classic example. There were only five passengers on the Nadi-Santo sector. Four more passengers joined the last leg of the flight to Honiara that day.Santo is a tourism mecca for Australian divers, a fact which influenced Solomon Airlines to drop Port Vila from its schedule last year.While civil aviation and airline officials are hopeful for a breakthrough, no one is really sure when this might be. |
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| Fiji given 3 months to consider poll plans |
Fiji Live news
Saturday March 17, 2007
The Pacific Islands Forum has given Fiji's interim government three months to consider a plan for elections here within two years. Foreign ministers meeting in Vanuatu yesterday agreed that the Forum Eminent Person’s Group remain constituted to advance matters covered in its report. The EPG report called for the Interim Government installed after last year's coup to step down and the military to stop interfering with the judiciary.
The report also called on Interim PM Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama to step aside to allow a civilian to take authority of the government. New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters says the interim administration in Fiji would be foolish to ignore the united view of the Pacific Islands Forum. Radio New Zealand International reports Peters says the Forum countries also agreed to form a joint venture group to assist Fiji if asked.
The Foreign Ministers reiterated their call on the international community to continue to identify what actions could be taken to support the restoration of constitutional and democratic governance in Fiji. |
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| INTERVENTION MISSION WELCOMES RE-BUILDING PROCESS |
SIBConline news
19:22 hrs
18/03/2007
The deputy special coordinator of RAMSI, Paul Ash has welcomed the efforts of Solomon Islanders to make the country a better place to live, grow and prosper.Speaking last week to the Honiara Rotary Club, Mr Ash said most people agree that Solomon Islands is a better place to live now than four years ago.He however cautioned that peace is fragile as demonstrated by the level of concern expressed during the recent re-arming debate.Mr Ash said recent attacks on the mission are particularly disappointing and perplexing, given how much Solomon Islanders have achieved for the country with RAMSI's support.He said it is not clear why those attacks were being made and how they contribute to a better relationship between the Solomon Islands government and RAMSI.But he said as far as he can tell, the attacks are not supported by the majority of Solomon Islanders.Mr Ash said RAMSI is always willing to talk through any issues people may have with its work and to seek ways to move forward.Meanwhile, the senior New Zealand diplomat will end his two year post as RAMSI deputy special coordinator in about two weeks.Mr Ash says it had been a special privilege to be able to serve Solomon Islanders.He says the experience included inspirational moments.Mr Ash noted in particular, a soccer tournament at Kolina on the Weathercoast of Guadalcanal and a public meeting at Malu'u in North Malaita.He said both occasions showed how fragile peace can be and at the same time, the power of reconciliation.Mr Ash said those kind of experiences had given him and others the motivation to keep working with Solomon Islanders to help create a peaceful and prosperous nation. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:24 AM |
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| PRIME MINISTER COMMENTS ON FIJI SITUATION |
SIBConline news
19:24 hrs
18/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has said the application of the principles of democracy will not work in trying to resolve the problems that Fiji is facing.Speaking last Thursday in a ceremony to mark Commonwealth day, Mr Sogavare said the frequency of military coups in Fiji challenges the workings of the important pillars that bind the Commonwealth together.He however said whilst he is a strong believer in the principles of democracy and the best system of governance ever invented, it is illogical in the case of Fiji to capitalise on the unavoidable violation as a means to return the country to normalcy.Mr Sogavare said Fiji needs a good dose of understanding and respect from regional countries and the Commonwealth.He said the Biketawa declaration clearly understands this argument." We cannot possible be of any help to Fiji if the region is bogged down in advancing theories of good governance, democracy and the rule of law when it blatantly refuse to understand the problems of that country. This is the message of Commonwealth day celebrations. Our strategies must be premised on the full understanding of the situations on the ground, that is nurtured by desire to respect our difference." |
| posted by administrator @ 8:22 AM |
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| PRIME MINISTER SOGAVARE TO RECEIVE AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER DESIGNATE |
SIBConline news
19:25 hrs
18/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare will tomorrow receive Australian High Commissioner designate to Solomon islands, Peter Hooton.Mr Hooton will formally present his credentials to the Prime Minister at the office of the Prime Minister tomorrow afternoon.Since arriving in the country in early January, Government had deferred an appointment for Mr Hooton to present his credentials because of the on-going rift in diplomatic relations between Canberra and Honiara.Prime Minister Sogavare told SIBC News in a recent interview he was prepared to facilitate the ceremony for Mr Hooton to present his credentials.Mr Sogavare says he had nothing personal against Mr Hooton as an individual, and looks on Australia as a close ally and friend of Solomon Islands as had been for the last 100 years or more.He says differences in opinions held by political leaders of the two sovereign nations are different matters. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:22 AM |
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| Friday, March 16, 2007 |
| POLICE ARREST SUSPECT FOR KILLING |
SIBConline news
12:17 hrs
16/03/2007
A 36 year old man from Malaita has been arrested by Police after a woman in her 30’s believed to be his wife, was killed during an argument on Wednesday 14 March 2007.
Witnesses told police detectives and Forensic officers that the woman was stabbed by her husband during a domestic argument.
Police Media Office says the suspect was drunk at the time of the incident, and the deceased sustained wounds on her forehead from a sharp object.
Police say the victim died on the way to the National Referral Hospital.
A Post Mortem was carried out yesterday to determine the cause of death.
Police again remind the public of the tragic circumstances that can arise from domestic violence.
Police say domestic violence is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The suspect is remanded in custody while a full investigation continues. |
| posted by administrator @ 3:29 PM |
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| CUTS FORCE USP TO RE-THINK ON BUDGET |
FijiTimes News
Friday, March 16, 2007
THE University of the South Pacific has embarked on measures to contain its finances following the takeover and the cut in its Budget allocation, coupled with arrears from member countries.
Measures taken range from a delay in appointment of academic staff, a freeze on non-academic staff, reduction in corporate credit card limits and delay in capital and repair and maintenance works, a paper from director finance Kevin Davis, dated March 7, said.
This follows concerns that the USP is owed about $4.5million from member countries since December last year. Fiji owes 58 per cent of the arrears, Mr Davis said.
In a move to reorganise its resources and focus on key priority areas, Mr Davis said it could be achieved through across the board budget cuts, and closure of courses and programs. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:35 AM |
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| LANDS INQUIRY COMMISSION MET MALAITA EXECUTIVE |
SIBConline news
12:06 hrs
15/03/2007
The Malaita provincial executive says it appreciates government’s efforts to address problems relating to land dealings on Guadalcanal.The Provincial executive says it views the effort as paving the road to lasting peace in the country.The Provincial Executive last week held a consultative meeting in Auki with the Steering Committee on the Commission of Inquiry into land dealings on Guadalcanal.At the meeting, the Malaita executive said it is willing to work closely with both the National and Guadalcanal Provincial governments to ensure a National Reconciliation is conducted.The province believes that land dealings on Guadalcanal are a long and sensitive issue because it touches the hearts of people who are directly affected during the social unrest.The Government Communications Unit says the Malaita Provincial Executive supports the terms of reference of the inquiry and will hold further discussions before making recommendations to the government.A similar meeting was held last month between the committee and the Guadalcanal provincial executive.The meetings aim to seek the views of the two provinces and get possible recommendations for inclusion into the final Terms Of Reference for the Inquiry. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:34 AM |
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| FORMER GLF MEMBERS SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT |
SIBConline news
12:12 hrs
15/03/2007
The High Court this morning sentenced five members of the former Guadalcanal Liberation Front to life imprisonment.Ronnie Cawa, Carradine Pitakaka, Geddily Isa, Owen Isa and William Hence were all found guilty of murder over the death of Brother Nathaniel Sado of the Melanesian Brotherhood.At the hearing last year, the prosecution had told the court the five accused men, on a particular morning inflicted such a beating that resulted in Brother Sado's death. The court was told that it is not necessary to prove which of the five accused carried out the blows which directly caused the death, because if they were participants in the incident, they are equally liable.A one and half hour judgement on the case was delivered by the presiding judge, Justice Brown this morning.In his ruling, Justice Brown said the court has found that the five men acted together by common purpose or agreement to kill Brother Sado.The Judge pronounced each of the five men guilty of murder, as he ordered them to stand one by one.Justice Brown told the men that the punishment for murder is life imprisonment, and that's what they got.The Late Brother Sado died as a result of beatings by the men at Pite Village on the Weathercoast of Guadalcanal sometime in February 2003.His remains were exhumed by police in late 2003 and later buried at the Melanesian Brotherhood Headquarters at Tabalia on West Guadalcanal, along with five other Brothers, also killed at the Weathercoast of Guadalcanal, as they went in search of their missing brother, Nathaniel Sado. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:31 AM |
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| SCHOOLS WANT MARKET CLOSED |
SIBConline news
18:38 hrs
15/03/2007
Schools near the Kukum Betel Nut market will be holding a peaceful march to the Honiara City Council Office in support of plans to close down the market.Mbua Valley School Principal Samson Faisi says the planned march follows the lack of response from the City Clerk on the Council's position to a petition his school and other affected schools had signed.The petition specifically asked the council to immediately close down the market for various reasons including the increase of betel-nut chewing and smoking amongst students.Mr Faisi says they had given the council a week to relay the council's stand on the petition but have not received any response.Mr Faisi says if the peaceful march does not get any reply from the council then the next option is to close down the Mbua Valley school in consultation with other affected schools. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:30 AM |
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| OPPOSITION LEADER CALLS FOR COOPERATION |
SIBConline news
18:44 hrs
15/03/2007
Opposition leader Fred Fono has called on the Government and the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands to improve what appears to be a deteriorating relationship between them.Mr Fono makes the call following Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's directive to RAMSI to stop its newly launched outreach programme with visits to the Guadalcanal and Malaita Provinces.Mr Fono says the Prime Minister has taken the step because he realises the outreach programme has attracted huge support so far for RAMSI to remain in the country.The Opposition leader says RAMSI's exclusion of the government in the outreach programme and Mr Sogavare's directive to stop it and his recent accusations of RAMSI personnel of engaging in doubtful activities confirm the deteriorating relations."The government needs to come on board and allow its officers to accompany RAMSI to the provinces on their outreach programmes in order to make awareness on the role that RAMSI comes to play. To us it's a very important educational programme that the government needs to be involved in." Mr Fono reminds the government and RAMSI that they share common concerns, which among others include ensuring the rule of law, stabilising government finances, re- strengthening the police and judiciary and social services such as health and education |
| posted by administrator @ 7:29 AM |
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| SOLOMON TELEKOM SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH FOOTBALL FEDERATION |
SIBConline news
18:42 hrs
15/03/2007
Solomon Telekom and Solomon Islands Football Federation today signed an agreement package worth one point five million dollars.Under the package Solomon Telekom will become the major sponsor of three football tournaments in the country under the supervision of SIFF.These are the Senior National team, national club championship finals and Solomon Cup tournaments.Chairman of Telekom Board of Directors, John Beverly, General Manager Martin Robinson jointly signed the agreement in Honiara with the President of SIFF, Martin Alufurai.Mr Beverly said the assistance by Solomon Telekom was made in recognition of football as the major loved sport in this country.He said the assistance will be spread over five years in the partnership agreement.President of SIFF, Martin Alufurai said the sponsorship assistance is a major boost to the development of football in Solomon Islands. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:28 AM |
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| SOGAVARE CALLS FOR MORE AWARENESS ON C”WEALTH YOUTH PROGRAMS |
Department of the Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet
By George Herming
The Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare today called for increased awareness on Commonwealth Youth Programs which remain obscure among the majority of commonwealth youths.
He referred to local statistics in Solomon Islands which shows that although Honiara hosts the Commonwealth Youth Program South Pacific Centre, 40 percent of the countries youth population live in rural areas and know nothing about Commonwealth values.
“The majority of the country’s population does not know about the centre’s existence, let alone the services it provides,” he said.
Sogavare also noted that women which make up have of the population of Solomon Islands need to know their place in the Commonwealth.
He said gender insensitivity and child abuse is a common occurrence in most Solomon Islands households.
The Prime Minister said the widening gap suggests that joint efforts of the Commonwealth in addressing the issues maybe ineffective.
“To make a difference we need have a collective duty to address their needs,” he said.
The Prime Minister said his government had recognized this gap and recently moved to establish the Ministry of Women, Youth and Children Affairs.
“It is our hope that this strategic gap filling by the government will champion the needs of women, youth and children in our country,” Sogavare said.
He said the new Ministry will work in partnership with international agencies such as UNIFEM, CYP and Save the Children Australia to promote the needs of women, youths and children. |
| posted by administrator @ 7:18 AM |
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| EUROPEAN UNION DONATES 2 MILLION TO BOOST DISTANCE LEARNING |
Department of Prime Ministers Office and Cabinet
By George Siapu
The delivery of education services to remote and rural communities in the country through the Distance Learning Mode has been further bolstered with the European Union’s donation of $2.2 millions worth of solar power and IT equipment to the Ministry of Education for its nine Distance Learning Centres that have already been built in the provinces.
The European Union Charge’ de Affaires Henry Prankerd today handed over the equipment to the Minister of Education Dr. Derek Sikua during a formal gathering at the Ministry of Education’s Head Office.
With this latest huge consignment of solar power and IT equipment, the other remaining eight Distance Learning Centres would now be able to start operation within the next 3 to 4 months and join the first Centre at St. Stephen High School at Pamua in Makira province, which has been operational, and on line since September 2006.
The Ministry of Education through its Education Sector Investment and Reform Programme under the Ministry Sector Wide Approach has coordinated these Distance Learning Centres. However, the Distance Learning Centre Project is implemented and managed by the Development Volunteers Association’s People Network together with the Ministry of Education.
These Centres are hosted by rural community schools with the intention to enhance and improve access to basic education for people in rural areas, including students, teachers and adults who wish to continue their education as well as technical and vocational training.
Distance Learning has been seen as an important mode for improvement and effective delivery of education services to remote and rural communities.
The Centres are also important points through which the Ministry of Education would utilize in addressing its priorities spelt out under the National Education Action Plan 2007 – 2009.
The users of these Centres in the provinces could conveniently access full range of courses from the University of the South Pacific (USP), which has been made deliverable through the installation of broadband Internet.
It is envisaged that these Distance Learning Centres would not only benefit the people in accessing formal and non-formal education but they could also experience other benefits which includes economic opportunities, health security, rural finance, improved participation in society and self-advancement through empowerment.
The $2.2 million assistance by the European Union had catered for the acquisition of 88 solar panels(10 kilo-watts), 96 deep-cycle gel solar batteries, 8 quality sine-wave inverters, 8 sets digital solar controllers with peripherals, 8 battery chargers, 8 sets solar panel mounting frames and other miscellaneous items including cables, fuses and lights.
The other major component of equipment supplied includes 65 Toshiba A8 laptops, 65 advanced port replicators, 65 external keyboards and optical mice, 9 dot matrix printers, 18 laser printers and 9 scanners.
CBS Power Solutions of Fiji supplied the solar power equipment and the IT equipment came from DataNets Limited of Papua New Guinea.
This invaluable support of equipment would now join the nine sets of VSAT equipment that have already been handed over, including other assorted networking equipment. |
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| Thursday, March 15, 2007 |
| Fiji excluded from signing MSG pact |
FijiLive News
Wednesday March 14, 2007
Interim Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-KhaiyumFiji's interim regime has been told by the Melanesian Spearhead Group that it won't be able to sign the MSG agreement in Vanuatu next week. The signing of the MSG's new formal constitution will take place on Friday March 23 in Port Vila. Fiji's Interim Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum will accompany Interim Foreign Minister Ratu Epeli Nailatikau to the meet. When contacted today, Sayed-Khaiyum referred all questions to Ratu Epeli who however could not be reached for comments. Fiji was told in a letter from the interim Forum chairman, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare that its interim administration won't be allowed to sign the MSG agreement. The head of the MSG secretariat, Johnny Koanapo, says Fiji's exclusion is a political decision that the leaders attending the MSG summit will need to finalise when they meet before the signing. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:25 AM |
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| COURT ACQUITS FORMER MP |
SIBConline news
19:33 hrs
14/03/2007
Honiara Magistrates Court had acquitted former member of Parliament for Temotu Pele and local businessman, Michael Maina on charges of theft and false pretences.Magistrate Barnabas Upwe acquitted Mr Maina on both charges after the prosecution failed to prove evidence on the alleged charges.Mr Maina was charged in 2005, allegedly accused of taking money from an overseas Bank ABN AMRO.But Maina's solicitor, Billy Titiulu of Pacific Lawyers told the magistrate that the prosecution failed to prove evidence of facts against his client.Mr Titiulu also disagreed to a suggestion by the prosecution to reduce the charge of theft to a lesser charge of false pretences.In his judgement Magistrate Mr Upwe says he found ABN AMRO which transmitted money to Global Investment Limited through ANZ bank in Honiara had proprietary interest in the deal but did not actually owned the money.He says this is also a case where Mr Maina could not be held personally liable for any actions he had made on behalf of Global Investment as a Director.Mr Upwe says as such, Mr Maina could not be personally penalised.He says control and disbursements of the money to Global Investment were facilitated by ANZ Bank under its normal banking operations.Mr Upwe says he also took into consideration the fact that Global Investment Limited had already fully repaid the money. |
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| PM TO INVITE AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER DESIGNATE |
SIBConline news
19:39 hrs
14/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says he will invite Australian High Commissioner designate Peter Hooton to present his letters of credentials.This is despite refusal by the Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer to apologise for his open letter and television broadcasts to the people of Solomon Islands last month.The Prime Minister described the Australian Foreign Minister's action as deplorable and disrespectful, which he find very disappointing. On the issue of Australia's representative in Honiara, the Prime Minister says he is prepared to move on in the interests of repairing the relationship between the two countries.Mr Sogavare says he believes this can be achieved provided there is as atmosphere of goodwill and understanding of Solomon Islands' sovereign rights.He said Mr Hooton will be invited to present his credentials at the Australian High Commissioner's earliest convenience.The Prime Minister says he intends to convey his view to Mr Hooton that neither he, nor his government, will tolerate any form of interference or unreasonable demands which violate or impinge on the policies of the government. |
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| AUSTRALIA SAYS TRAVEL ADVISORY REMAINS UNCHANGED |
SIBConline news
19:40 hrs
14/03/2007
The Australian High Commission in Honiara says today's media story about the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Travel Advisory for Solomon Islands appears to suggest the change of some significance. An official from the High Commission says this is not the case. The official says the Department's Travel Advisories are re-issued routinely, whenever, often in this case, quite small changes are made to the text. The official says the level of the advisory has not changed.The official says Travel Advisories are not used to convey political messages, nor are they influenced by political considerations. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:23 AM |
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| PM SOGAVARE CRITICISES TRAVEL ADVISORY |
SIBConline news
19:41 hrs
14/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare describes Australia's travel advisory warning against travels to Solomon Islands as a politically motivated campaign to discredit the government.Mr Sogavare says the wording of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade travel advisory statement had grossly misrepresented and exaggerated the situation in Honiara.He describes the statement as having used language more appropriate to war torn countries like Iraq and Afghanistan.The Prime Minister's office says the statement had advised Australian nationals to stay clear of protests and large gatherings warning they could turn violent and directed at Australian interests.The Prime Minister was quoted by his office as saying such campaign was designed to paint a picture of unrest in the country even to the extend of violence breaking out as result of dissatisfaction in the democratically elected government.Mr Sogavare says the statement linking violence to the recent proposed motion of no confidence against government as false and misleading. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:07 AM |
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| Working towards peace and prosperity |
RAMSI website
Submitted by Anne McCaig on Wed, 14/03/2007 - 6:37pm.
Wednesday 14 March 2007
RAMSI Acting Special Coordinator Paul Ash has welcomed Solomon Islanders efforts to make their country a better place to live, grow and prosper.
Speaking on Tuesday to the Honiara Rotary Club, Mr Ash said that most people agree the Solomon Islands is a better place to live now than it was four years ago, although he cautioned that peace is fragile as demonstrated by the level of concern expressed during the recent re-arming debate.
“Consider how far Solomon Islands has come since July 2003. Children can safely go to school, women can go to market to buy and sell goods without fear, health clinics are open for business, the streets are safe, the economy works, people are investing in the future, justice is being done and being seen to be done,” Mr Ash said.
The senior New Zealand diplomat, whose two year post as RAMSI’s Deputy Special Coordinator ends in two weeks time, said it had been a special privilege to be able to serve Solomon Islanders. He said the experience had included inspirational moments. He noted in particular a soccer tournament at Kolina on the Weathercoast and a public meeting at Malu’u in North Malaita, which he said showed both how fragile peace can be and the power of reconciliation.
“Kolina soccer tournament on Easter Monday 2005 brought together teams from 24 villages that had been in conflict during the tensions. It was two years after RAMSI arrived but one team was still too afraid to approach the field until it was their turn to play.
“They hid in the forest, away from the soccer field. In the end, the weather intervened when a thunderstorm brought people together to shelter in a tent.
“In May the same year I accompanied the Pacific Islands Forum Eminent Persons Group to Malu’u. Six-hundred people were there to greet them, many holding banners urging RAMSI to stay in Solomon Islands; they were concerned that RAMSI was going to be sent home.”
“These kinds of experiences have given me and others the motivation and inspiration to keep working with Solomon Islanders to help create a peaceful and prosperous nation.”
The New Zealand diplomat said that attacks on RAMSI are particularly disappointing and perplexing given how much Solomon Islanders have achieved for their country with RAMSI’s support. “We are not sure why these attacks are being made and how they contribute to a better relationship between Solomon Islands Government and RAMSI. They are not supported by the majority of Solomon Islanders as far as I can tell,” Mr Ash said.
“RAMSI has always said that we are willing to talk through any issues people may have with our work and seek constructive ways to move forward”.
“If warring communities on the Weathercoast can take shelter together, if villagers who once fought can join hands in reconciliation, and if people in Malu’u can join together to welcome our assistance, so can we all continue our efforts, and our partnerships to make Solomon Islands a better place for Solomon Islanders to live, grow and prosper”, Mr Ash said. |
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| Wednesday, March 14, 2007 |
| USP students want drop in internet charges |
Fiji Sun News
The University of the South Pacific Students Association is still to negotiate with Information Technology department to drop internet charges.USPSA welfare and development chairperson Akmal Ali said the negotiations were on hold as they are waiting for the USPSA election to be held on Friday.“The negotiations are still on hold until USPSA council decides on further negotiation on this matter to drop internet charges and the complaints by students are increasing everyday,” said Mr Ali.“We cannot do anything until and unless the council election is over and advise students to be calm as the matter cannot be solved overnight.”However, USP imposed charges on internet usage on all students from this year because of drastic abuse of internet services by students.More than 1000 students have signed a petition asking the Information Technology System to drop the charges, saying there are other measures to halt the abuse. |
| posted by administrator @ 3:26 PM |
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| Former Fiji soldiers face trial |
FijiLive News
Wednesday March 14, 2007
Four former Fiji soldiers hired to train a private army on Bougainville will go to trial on Wednesday next week, reports say. Thy have been accused of belonging to an illegal army. It is alleged they also ran a militia for Papua New Guinea conman Noah Musingku in Bougainville. PNG Police have named the four Fijians as Jolame Gukirewa, Manasa Dumuloto, Kalivati Dau and Aliki Moro. A total of eight Fijians have been hiding from PNG authorities and right-wing militia for the past 18 months, reportedly seeking US$1 million promised to them by Musingku. Three fled from PNG two months ago while four surrendered to Bougainville police last month. The other Fijian remains at large, but police said they hoped he too would surrender. |
| posted by administrator @ 1:39 PM |
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| AUSTRALIA WARNS ITS CITIZENS VISITING SOLOMON ISLANDS |
Sydney Morning Herald/ Pacnews
Wed, 14 Mar 2007
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA ----
Australians could become victims of violence in the Solomon Islands, where the security situation may rapidly deteriorate, Canberra has warned, Sydney Morning Herald reports. In its latest travel advisory, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to the island nation. But if there, they should exercise extreme caution because of the uncertain security situation and on-going political tensions, it said. “There is potential for a rapid deterioration in the security environment. Australians may be at particular risk and could become victims of violence,” the advisory said. “You should avoid protests and large gatherings as they may turn violent. Such events could become catalysts for violence and civil disorder, which may be directed at Australian interests.” Members of the Australian High Commission and the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) have been advised to exercise a high degree of personal security in their homes and to avoid walking, running or cycling after dark in Honiara. “There remain criminal elements within the community, some of whom have access to firearms,” the advisory said. “We continue to receive information suggesting that some of these may be encouraging criminal activity and acts of violence targeting RAMSI and the expatriate civilian community for political purposes. “There have been threats of violence in recent months directed at the Australian High Commission.” RAMSI arrived in mid-2003 to restore law and order and good governance following years of ethnic unrest.But political tensions between Canberra and Honiara have risen since the election of Manasseh Sogavare as prime minister last May. He has made it clear he wants to see less RAMSI influence in his government and less Australian influence in RAMSI. Mr Sogavare's expulsion of Australian High Commissioner Patrick Cole last year for allegedly interfering in Solomons political affairs strained relations. In a letter published in Solomons newspapers last month, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer accused Mr Sogavare of deliberately trying to undermine RAMSI and tarnishing its reputation. Mr Sogavare demanded an apology from Mr Downer over the letter, saying it jeopardised the restoration of good relations between the two governments. In a statement on Monday, Sogavare said that despite misunderstandings, his government was keen to enhance its co-operation with RAMSI if it worked harder to support his government's policies and did not try to operate as an independent authority. |
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| MALAITA SUPPORTS GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO ADDRESS LAND DEALS ON GUADALCANAL |
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
By George Herming
The Malaita provincial executive has appreciated the present government’s efforts to address problems relating to land dealings on Guadalcanal with a view that it will pave the road to lasting peace in the country.
A consultative meeting between the government’s Steering Committee on the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into land deals on Guadalcanal and the Malaita provincial executive was held last week in Auki.
At the meeting, the Malaita executive said it is willing to work closely with both the National and Guadalcanal Provincial governments to ensure a Grand National Reconciliation is conducted to ensure lasting peace in the country.
The province believed that land deals on Guadalcanal are a long and sensitive issue because it touches the hearts of people who are directly affected during the social unrest.
Secretary of the Steering Committee Christopher Waiwori said the Malaita executive has openly suggested that leaders must honestly deal with the issue so that truth can be revealed.
The Executive understands that many Malaitans and those from other provinces lost their genuinely acquired land and properties on Guadalcanal during the social unrest.
“It will be a sensitive issue but it needs mutual understanding, respect and acceptance from parties involved to push it forward to pave the way for lasting peace,” the executive told the Steering Committee.
The executive supports the terms of reference (TOR) for the inquiry and will hold further discussions before making recommendations to the government.
A similar meeting was already held with the Guadalcanal provincial executive.
The aim of the meetings is to seek the views of the two provinces and get possible recommendations for inclusion into the final TOR for the Inquiry. |
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| ANTHROPOLOGIST COMMENTS ON USING CUSTOM AS EXCUSE |
SIBConline news
17:18 hrs
13/03/2007
The Director of the National Museum expresses concern over the way people are using custom as an excuse to demand compensation.Lawrence Foanaota was referring to the recent incident in which some North Malaita chiefs demand the government to pay compensation for alleged threats and swearing made on their member of Parliament.Mr Foanaota says whilst it's true that compensation should be paid to damages and embarrassment caused, it must be looked at in today's context.He says when things happen, parties concerned should come together and discuss how they will deal with the situation.Mr Foanaota says such things as demanding compensation without establishing the fact of what happenned is not right both in custom and law."I am thinking of holding public talks, organising difference groups of people come together and discuss these areas, because it's that isolation, one group dominating over the other. We are in a multi-cultural situation, we have different languages, different cultures and different way of doing things." |
| posted by administrator @ 8:44 AM |
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| HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATION WANT CUBAN DOCTORS INTERVIEWED |
SIBConline news
17:20 hrs
13/03/2007
Superintendent of the National Referral hospital, doctor Tenneth Dalipanda says the hospital administration is urging government to allow them to interview doctors that are coming from Cuba to work in the country.Speaking to SIBC News, the Medical Superintendent says a screening process would determine if the Cuban doctors are capable of dealing with medical situations that are unique to Solomon Islands and the region.Dr Dalipanda says his administration had already communicated this idea to the Ministry." Interview is probably the best way to gauge their capabilities. We can ask specific questions related to diseases in the country like how one would manage a particular disease. An answer to that question would tell us what they would do or what not. There will be targeted questions relating to our local situation. That is a very important criteria we would want happen."The Solomon Islands Government has already signed an agreement with the Cuban government which would allow about 40 doctors from Cuba to work in the country, in a bid to alleviate the shortage of medical doctors.Foreign Minister Patteson Oti signed the agreement with his Cuban counterpart when he visited Cuba last week.Meanwhile, Dr Dalipanda says getting doctors from Cuba or else where in the world is only a short term measure to address the shortage of medical doctors in the country.He says whilst it allows a bit more time for some trainee doctors to graduate, a recruitment must be specific to the current health needs.Dr Dalipanda says engaging overseas doctors can also be expensive.He says a much better approach, though long term is for government to increase the number of people being trained as medical doctors. He says less than 10 doctors graduate each year from two regional institutions where they receive training.Dr Dalipanda also say the current improvement to the work conditions of local doctors is attracting some local doctors to return to the country. |
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| SICHE STAFF AWAIT OUTCOME ON THEIR DEMAND |
SIBConline news
17:22 hrs
13/03/2007
The Solomon Islands College of High Education Council met today to consider a petition to oust SICHE director Gabriel Taloikwai and two expatriate staff members.Local academic and non academic staff members of the College last Friday presented the petition and a seven day strike notice to Council Chairman, Northwest Choiseul M-P Clement Kengava.President of the College Academic Staff Association, CHENLA Duddley Hoala says at the meeting last Friday, Mr Kengava had asked them to allow the director to complete his contract which expires in June this year.Mr Hoala says no reference was made to the Financial Management consultant, Naleen Raj and Technical Advisor corporate Services Alan Evans.But he says staff union members have asked the council chairman to take the matter before a full council meeting.Mr Hoala says members of SICHE'S two unions will await the outcome of today's council meeting.He however says they are standing firm on what was presented in their petition.The petition demands that the three be immediately removed from their positions, accusing them of misconduct in the administration of their duties.They claim such misconduct is badly affecting the work moral of staff.The seven working days strike notice lapse this Friday. |
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| Tuesday, March 13, 2007 |
| RAMSI CONFIRMS RECEIVING LETTER FROM PRIME MINISTER |
SIBConline news
17:25 hrs
13/03/2007
The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands RAMSI confirms that the office of the Special Coordinator had received a letter from Prime Minister Sogavare on its Community Outreach Program.The Spokesperson however says RAMSI would be pleased to have government take part in its provincial visits, as had occurred in past visits.The person says it is not new that RAMSI is making these visits, which in the past had included Solomon Islands government officials.The RAMSI spokesperson says the mission has been visiting provinces since its arrival.The person says when the Pacific Islands Forum endorsed the mission in 2003, RAMSI was given the task to ensure it conducts consultations with Solomon Islanders, most of whom live in the provinces.The person says the Community Outreach Program is designed to raise awareness about the work of RAMSI, and it gives the mission an opportunity to listen to the concerns of the people. |
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| PRIME MINISTER DISMISSES OPPOSITION ACCUSATIONS |
SIBCOnline news
12:27 hrs
13/03/2007
The Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has dismissed accusations that he was attempting to tarnish the image of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.Opposition Leader, Fred Fono has claimed in the media that the Prime Minister's accusations on prostitution, traffic accidents and war relic removal against RAMSI were nothing more than just an attempt to taint RAMSI's image.But responding to the Opposition Leader's claim, Mr Sogavare said his statements in the recent sitting of Parliament were made for the purpose of highlighting the discrepancies associated with the intervention programme.The Prime Minister said what he and his administration had been expressing for sometime about the operations of RAMSI, was the need for a greater degree of accountability.He said the Opposition Leader needed to ask himself some questions to properly determine the truth behind what was being presented by RAMSI’s public media campaign. |
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| PRIME MINISTER STOP RAMSI PROGRAMME |
SIBConline news
12:21 hrs
13/03/2007
Prime minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has stopped an outreach programme being run by the regional assistance mission, RAMSI.RAMSI started its programme last week by speaking with communities in Malaita about its work.But Mr Sogavare has written to RAMSI raising concerns about the manner in which the visits are being conducted.He says as genuine as RAMSI’s intentions may be, conducting an independent public relations campaign implies that the mission is not answerable to the government.Mr Sogavare says the Government will not accept interference that undermines its sovereign authority.He has directed RAMSI to stop the visits until there have been discussions with the government and a more co-operative effort is developed. |
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| SOGAVARE STANDS BY STATEMENTS ON RAMSI |
Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Deli Oso/PM Press Secretary
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has rebuked the Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition Group over accusations that the Prime Minister was attempting to tarnish the image of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
Opposition Leader, Fred Fono claimed in the media that Mr Sogavare’s accusations on prostitution, traffic accidents and war relic removal against RAMSI were frivolous and were nothing than just an attempt to taint RAMSI.
But responding to Mr Fono’s claim, Mr Sogavare said his statements in the recent sitting of Parliament about the involvement of RAMSI personnel in prostitution, traffic accidents and war relic removal were made for the purpose of highlighting the discrepancies associated with the intervention programme.
“It must be clearly noted that the information I presented during the last parliament session was not issued for the purpose of undermining RAMSI or to tarnish their image but rather to highlight some of the discrepancies associated with the programme based on evidence presented to me by members of the public,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Prime Minister said what he and his administration had been expressing for sometime about the operations of RAMSI, was the need for a greater degree of accountability.
“Is the government expected to uphold transparency and the principles of good governance whilst those who are tasked to reinforce such efforts continue to blatantly mislead us and can RAMSI truly be faultless and without blemish to the extent that whatever is presented on their behalf should be considered gospel?” Mr Sogavare asked.
He said these were the questions that the Leader of the Opposition needed to ask himself to properly determine the truth behind what was being presented by RAMSI’s public media campaign before counteracting the concerns he raised in parliament.
Prime Minister Sogavare revealed that the statements made by the Special Coordinator of RAMSI, Tim George on the mystery six box allegations were contradictory to the findings of a recent investigation into the matter.
He said Mr George claimed that the boxes were part of a joint routine sea and air rescue exercise between RAMSI and the Solomon Islands Government authorities in December 2005. However, independent eyewitness reports confirmed a quantity of boxes were airlifted at the sea off GBR in August 2005.
On the prostitution allegations, the Prime Minister revealed that the statements he made in parliament were based on a number of letters written to him by women who themselves had been involved in prostitution with RAMSI personnel both directly and indirectly.
Mr Sogavare said however due to certain nuances relevant to the local cultures, it was difficult to fully expose the details and this was why formal investigations could not be carried out.
“Because of our culture and custom these women cannot risk exposing themselves because of the shame, embarrassment and anger they will bring upon themselves and their families should their stories become public,” Prime Minister Sogavare said.
As for the traffic accident allegations, the Prime Minister said police have confirmed there were a number of serious traffic accidents involving RAMSI personnel.
He said the incidents resulted in severe injuries and irreparable vehicle damages although there were no deaths recorded.
Mr Sogavare said despite the misunderstandings on his statements in parliament, his executive government was keen to enhance its cooperation with RAMSI on the basis that the mission worked harder to compliment and support government policy initiatives and abide by its objectives rather than working as an independent authority. |
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| SPORTS: BA DEFEATED MARIST FC 3-2 |
ZANZEER SINGHTuesday, March 13, 2007
Fiji Times
THE Yogendra Dutt-coached Ba team has taken a six point lead in Group B of the O League soccer competition following its lucky 3-2 escape over Marist FC at Govind Park yesterday.
Keni Doidoi was the star for the Men in Black, scoring a double in front of 5000 fans.
Ba adapted well to the wet conditions but failed to defend in the later stages of the match allowing the opposition to score two quick goals.
The home side led 3-0 going into the dying stages of the encounter before its defence crumbled.
Ba Football Association president Rishi Kumar said the win didn't come easy. He said the boys sacrificed a lot during its campaign.
"We trained only for two and half days," Kumar said.
"I take my hat off to the boys. This is their second win against a Solomon side. They have done the nation proud."
National coach Juan Carlos Buzetti also praised the Ba men for their effort.
He said fatigue was one factor which Marist captalised on in the final moments. "They (Ba) seemed tired at the end," Buzzetti said. "The ground was heavy. The conditions were unplayable. Ba lost Malakai Kainihewe in the second half. This disrupted its defence. Soccer is a funny game and you cannot expect what may just happen. A win is a win. This is what Ba was playing for."
Ba took the lead in the 12th minute after Marist defender Samson Takayama tripped Josaia Bukalidi in the penalty area. Goalkeeper Laisenia Tuba rifled the ball to the left of Marist goalkeeper Francis Aruwafu.
Ba recorded its second goal in the 31st minute. Swamy pumped in a high cross into the Marist box. The Marist defenders failed to clear and the ball fell in the path of Doidoi who chipped it over the Marist goalkeeper.
Marist goalkeeper Aruwafu was substituted in the 37th minute. The visitors had it best scoring opportunity in the 42 minute after striker Joe Luwi caught Tuba by surprise with his long range attempt. The crossbar saved Ba and Tuba. Ba led 2-0 at half time. Doidoi scored his second goal four minutes into the second spell. The Ba striker was at the end of another Swamy cross, towering above the Marist defenders to give Ba a three-goal advantage.
The Ba defence were left wanting in the final five minutes. Luwi pulled one back in the 86th minute. Marist FC was gifted its second goal after Luke Vidovi's clearance deflected off Robert Wise into the Ba goalmouth.
Ba will host AS Temanava next Monday. |
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| SPORTS: BA DEFEATED MARIST FC 3-2 |
ZANZEER SINGHTuesday, March 13, 2007
Fiji Times
THE Yogendra Dutt-coached Ba team has taken a six point lead in Group B of the O League soccer competition following its lucky 3-2 escape over Marist FC at Govind Park yesterday.
Keni Doidoi was the star for the Men in Black, scoring a double in front of 5000 fans.
Ba adapted well to the wet conditions but failed to defend in the later stages of the match allowing the opposition to score two quick goals.
The home side led 3-0 going into the dying stages of the encounter before its defence crumbled.
Ba Football Association president Rishi Kumar said the win didn't come easy. He said the boys sacrificed a lot during its campaign.
"We trained only for two and half days," Kumar said.
"I take my hat off to the boys. This is their second win against a Solomon side. They have done the nation proud."
National coach Juan Carlos Buzetti also praised the Ba men for their effort.
He said fatigue was one factor which Marist captalised on in the final moments. "They (Ba) seemed tired at the end," Buzzetti said. "The ground was heavy. The conditions were unplayable. Ba lost Malakai Kainihewe in the second half. This disrupted its defence. Soccer is a funny game and you cannot expect what may just happen. A win is a win. This is what Ba was playing for."
Ba took the lead in the 12th minute after Marist defender Samson Takayama tripped Josaia Bukalidi in the penalty area. Goalkeeper Laisenia Tuba rifled the ball to the left of Marist goalkeeper Francis Aruwafu.
Ba recorded its second goal in the 31st minute. Swamy pumped in a high cross into the Marist box. The Marist defenders failed to clear and the ball fell in the path of Doidoi who chipped it over the Marist goalkeeper.
Marist goalkeeper Aruwafu was substituted in the 37th minute. The visitors had it best scoring opportunity in the 42 minute after striker Joe Luwi caught Tuba by surprise with his long range attempt. The crossbar saved Ba and Tuba. Ba led 2-0 at half time. Doidoi scored his second goal four minutes into the second spell. The Ba striker was at the end of another Swamy cross, towering above the Marist defenders to give Ba a three-goal advantage.
The Ba defence were left wanting in the final five minutes. Luwi pulled one back in the 86th minute. Marist FC was gifted its second goal after Luke Vidovi's clearance deflected off Robert Wise into the Ba goalmouth.
Ba will host AS Temanava next Monday. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:24 AM |
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| Monday, March 12, 2007 |
| GOVERNMENT PAYS STUDENT ALLOWANCES |
SIBConline news
19:04 hrs
12/03/2007
The government has paid through allowances for its sponsored students at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji.Director of the National Training Unit, Selu Maezama, says the allowances were being paid through the Central Bank of Solomon Islands."The allowances for students at USP Laucala Campus was paid through the Central Bank of Solomon Islands today. The amount is two million 61-thousand-675 Fijian dollars for 495 students. The Central Bank has advised that the payment should go through today."Mr Maezama says the amount is for the first semester at USP.He acknowledges that USP had informed Solomon Islands government about the changes in payment for students allowances and other costs.However, Mr Maezama says the delay in paying the allowances were due to the slow administrative process in getting the allowances ready and determining when the students were leaving for the institution. |
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| GOVERNMENT FAILS TO PAY FOR STUDENTS ALLOWANCES |
SIBConline news
12:19 hrs
12/03/2007
It has been reported that Solomon Islands Government-sponsored students at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji are surviving on bare necessities.A USP staff, Paul Kausimae says this is due to the government's failure to pay the students' living and book allowances.He says since they arrived at the university about three weeks a go, the Solomon Islands students have not been able to purchase their prescribed textbooks and stationary, greatly affecting their learning.He says the non-payment of living allowances has meant that students living off-campus are not able to meet their rent and pay for the basic necessities of life such as food. Mr Kausimae says due to the delay in payment of allowances, the Solomon Island Students Association has now appealed to Solomon Islanders working in Fiji for contributions in cash and kind. He says there is no reason why the students should be treated this way.He says these students are the country's future leaders and it is the responsibility of the government to facilitate their learning through its support. Mr Kausimae says this is a frustrating and sad situation that must be addressed immediately by the government. |
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| MALAITA EXECUTIVE CONSIDERS DRAFT BUDGET |
SIBConline news
12:21 hrs
12/03/2007
The Malaita Provincial Executive is this week looking through the provincial draft budget.Premier Richard Irosaea says an Accounts Committee finalised the draft budget over the weekend.He says the full Provincial Assembly will meet week starting March 26 to deliberate on the budget and pass it.Meanwhile, Premier Irosaea says his government supports the national government's rural development approach, saying it will help improve the lives of people in the villages.He says it will also help Solomon Islanders participate in the economic development of the country. |
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| OFC - OFC AND SECRETARIAT OF PACIFIC COMMUNITY |
Oceaniasoccer.com
Friday, 9th March 2007
OFC's relationship with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community was strengthened today when the OFC delegation led by Reynald Temarii met with Dr. Jimmie Rodgers of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community prior to the opening ceremony of the celebration of the International Day of Women on Thursday 8th March. Dr Rodgers was eager to reiterate his strong will to sign the MOU with the OFC in regards to the common objectives at the core of the project development at stake. He expressed his congratulations on the goals of the confederation for its strategic plan " OFC Vision 2007-2018" and its first phase " Win in Oceania with Oceania 2007-2010" especially in terms of programmes implemented in the field of youth development and promotion of women, two key issues for the SPC Director General.Rodgers acknowledged the key position of OFC in education and its concern for youth and women and the issues facing the implementation of its programmes particularly in the remote areas of the region. Rodgers issued his support to help solve the barriers of distance through new technologies and SPC expertise and services was tremendous.OFC President Reynald Temarii welcomed Dr. Rodgers statement that the OFC network of partners was clearly attractive to the development of the South Pacific and the need to deepen and enhance every aspect of the cooperation between OFC and the SPC to discuss further projects was essential. SPC and OFC's matters will reach a new step with the participation of Dr Rodgers at the FIFA Com-Unity course that will be held in Noumea from 18-20 June with the SPC to host the next OFC Executive Committee meeting at the end of 2007 where an agreement between the two organisations will be signed and ratified. |
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| SPORTS: Ba suffers setback |
FijiTimes News
ZANZEER SINGHMonday,
March 12, 2007
THE Ba soccer side will be without four of its key players for the important O League fixture against Solomon Islands club Marist FC today's.
Striker Osea Vakatalesau, Kiniviliame Naika, Roneel Kumar and Shalend Lal have been ruled of the Yogendra Dutt-coached side for match at Govind Park
Vakatalesau and Naika are suffering from injuries sustained in the previous O League encounter against Tahtitian champion AS Temanava.
Lal is serving a suspension after picking up a red card in the same encounter while Kumar has migrated to New Zealand.
Ba Football Association president Rishi Kumar said the loss of the four players is a big blow for the local champions.
He said as a result Ba will only have three players on its reserve bench.
"There is not much we can do given the circumstances," Rishi said.
"The injuries have affected the combination of the team. We will be hoping that the starting XV can do the job for us early. The opposition is quite strong. They have some national players in their squad. It will be an interesting encounter."
Ba leads Group B of the O League competition. The side has four points after a win over Marist FC and a draw against AS Temanava.
Rishi has urged the fans to come out in numbers to support the local team.
He said the aim is turn the tables against the Solomon Islanders after losing 8-2 on aggregate against Makuru FC in 2005.
"We need the support of the fans," Rishi said.
"When we played in the Solomon Islands, there was a huge backing for the home side. There were over 5,000 fans who witnessed that encounter.
"We will be hoping for simi0lar support from our fans. We are not representing Ba but Fiji in this O League competition."
Meanwhile, the Marist FC side is hoping to bounce back into contention after its first round loss.
The side sought the services of Solomon national coach Airton Andrioli last week to assist in its preparations.
Marist FC head coach Patrick Miniti said his side will put on a strong display in a bid to turn around its O League fortunes.
The match will kick-off at 5pm at Govind Park. |
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| PREMIER WANTS GOVERNMENT TO SPEED UP RECONCILIATION |
SIBConline news
18:51 hrs
11/03/2007
Malaita Premier Richard Na'amo Irosaea says his executive has had a fruitful discussion with the Minister for National Unity, Peace and Reconciliation, Sam Iduri, last Friday.Mr Irosaea says during the preliminary discussion they talked about issues relating to inter-island and communities reconciliation programmes."What we agreed on is that we should speed up the reconciliation so its out of the way so that all of us get down to rebuilding our nation and economy. If the differences keep hanging over our heads, our thoughts will continue to dwell on the past, and I don't think it's good for anybody and especially our nation." The Malaita Premier says as a newly formed government, it will be submitting to the Ministry of National Unity, Peace and Reconciliation it's views on the long process to reconciliation.Mr Irosaea says overall his government wants to see reconciliation is completed and out of the way, so that Solomon Islands can continue as before the social unrest. |
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| Sunday, March 11, 2007 |
| PRIME MINISTER INVITED TO PACIFIC ISLANDS LEADERS' CONFERENCE |
SIBCOnline news
18:55 hrs
11/03/2007
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has been invited by the US State Department to attend the Pacific Islands Leaders Conference in Washington DC in May.The invitation was issued to Foreign Minister, Patteson Oti in Washington Thursday when he met with the US Deputy Assistant Secretary, Glynn Davis.Mr Oti and Mr Davis also discussed a number of issues including political and security developments in the Pacific region including Solomon Islands relations with RAMSI.The Government Communications Unit says Mr Oti clarified misunderstandings on the Government’s position on RAMSI, especially those coming out from the media.He briefed the State Department on the Solomon Islands government’s development commitment to Solomon Islands rural population.Mr Oti also indicated Solomon Islands interests in accessing the Millennium Challenge Account. |
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| MALAITA PREMIER PLANS TO CREATE MORE JOB |
SIBCOnline
19:16 hrs
10/03/2007
Malaita Premier Richard Na’amo Irosaea says his government is aware of claims that some employers have discriminate against Malaitans.The Premier says this is one of the reasons why his government is working on plans to encourage more development on Malaita to provide employment to the growing population of the province.Mr Irosaea says his government will be consulting with relevant government authorities and development partners to put more emphasis on job creation in the province.The Premier denies media reports that he is disappointed with those refusing to employ Malaita people, saying employers have the right to hire any person they want."The reason why some people do not employ Malaitans is that there are Malaitans who in the past showed no respect for their employers. This is one thing I am asking Malaitans that when someone offers you a job, you respect that person and the job and give all you can towards your work. This is to ensure you do a good job for your employer." |
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| Saturday, March 10, 2007 |
| UNITECH STUDENTS ON RAMPAGE AS A RESULT OF STAFF REFUSAL TO TEACH |
The National Online news
By FRANK RAI
ANGRY Unitech students went on a rampage yesterday over remarks by a university council member that they had nothing to do with the stand-off between striking academic staff and the administration.Reports yesterday that police had moved in and arrested executives of the striking National Academic Staff Association could not be verified last night.The pent-up frustrations of students came to the fore as they hurled stones, bottles, sticks and other projectiles into the main administration building shattering class windows and walls. University council members and other VIPs, who attended the forum to address the students, had to be ushered into the safety of the building by university security guards as student leaders tried to calm down their charges. A forum was called outside the administration building, which houses the Vice-Chancellor Misty Baloiloi’s office, the university council room and pro-vice chancellors’ offices. The students demanded during the forum for the Baloiloi-administration to step aside immediately to allow NASA to return to work so they could attend classes. No classes have held over the last two weeks due to the NASA grievances.NASA members are on strike to press for a full-scale investigation into alleged mismanagement and other issues. The allegations have not been investigated since first raised last year. Instead the university administration went to court and sought court orders for staff to return to classes and for police to move in and arrest the executives of NASA.Concerned over adverse impact on students’ academic life, the students’ representative council led by acting president Cathy Magalu led a delegation to Port Moresby last weekend to seek intervention from the Office of Higher Education and the Minister for Higher Education David Basua but returned on Wednesday without any positive response and organised yesterday’s forum for students to hear it first hand from council members. When addressing the students, one of the council members, Mr Chris Alu, told about 2,000 anxious students they had nothing to do with the dispute which provoked them into shouting; “shut up, shut up” and that’s when students lost their cool. Some students swore at the council members and hurled missiles at them and as the VIPs including Mr Baloiloi and Chancellor Philip Stagg were ushered into the safety of the building, the students pelted the walls and windows with rocks. Police were already on campus but kept their distance and watched as the students ran riot. Some students, who were sympathetic to the administration, also challenged the angry students which almost ended up in an all-out brawl among the two groups.Some shouted and demanded for Mr Baloiloi’s suspension.Some senior students and the SRC leaders appealed for calm and brought the students under control. They re-gathered at the same venue and were addressed by Chancellor Stagg, who told them that the suspension of the administration was non-negotiable. This brought on another round of angry and abusive remarks from the students.Students approached by The National right after the uproar and said they were provoked by the negative remarks made by the council member.The students said they had paid the fees and should be in class but this was not the case as they waited patiently for two weeks for a resolution to the NASA-Unitech dispute but the administration was too stubborn and was using the courts to protect itself.They said the council had not dealt with the issues raised by NASA and that had prolonged the strike.“It is not fair when expatriate staff is teaching and their students are attending classes. Some of us are not in classes so it is better to suspend all classes and we all resume at the same time,” a student leader said.Police and security guards employed by the university were on full alert in case the forum got out of hand. Police mobile squads were stationed at the main gate all morning and movement of traffic and people into the campus was stopped while the meeting was in progress.Metropolitan police commander, Chief Inspector Simon Kauba urged the students to maintain calm on campus and wait for positive outcomes from the authorities.Mr Kauba said movement of people and traffic in and out of the campus would be allowed to continue as normal. |
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| STRIKE THREAT FOR COLLEGE DIRECTOR |
SIBConline news
18:17 hrs
9/03/2007
Academic and non academic staff unions of the Solomon Islands college of Higher Education have issued a seven working-day strike notice effective as of March 7th 2007.The college's two staff unions have jointly issued the strike notice to the Chairman of the SICHE Council, North-west Choiseul M-P Clement Kengava.The teachers have demanded the removal of three members of the College Management including the Director, Gabriel Taloikwai.The other two staff members are the Financial Management consultant, Ms Naleen Raj and Technical Advisor Corporate Services Mr Alan Evans.The staff unionists demanded immediate removal of the trio from their positions accusing them of serious misconduct in the administration of their duties.They claim such misconduct was badly affecting work moral of both academic and non academic staff of the college and their demand to remove them from office was based on national interest.The seven working-day notice lapses next week.SIBC News understands that the Director has already responded formally to the demands by the staff. |
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| HIGH COURT HAS A NEW JUDGE |
SIBConline news
18:19 hrs
9/03/2007
Chief Magistrate Rex Foukona today officially joined the Solomon Islands High Court Bench as a new judge.Speaking at a ceremonial High Court sitting to mark the start of his official duty today, Justice Foukona pledged to perform to his best to ensure trials and judgments are not delayed.Justice Foukona’s appointment came at a crucial time when the country’s Courts are experiencing a backlog of high-profile cases currently pending.But the judge said he is confident the High Court will carry out its important role with a full bench of judges and available facilities.He said accepting the duties as a judge means accepting the challenges that lies ahead.Fifty-two year old Mr Foukona, of North Malaita started his legal profession in 1977 after joining the Solomon Islands government as a Court Clerk in Honiara. |
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| Thursday, March 08, 2007 |
| CHIEF JUSTICE WARNED LOCAL PAPERS |
SIBConline news
18:21 hrs
9/03/2007
The Chief Justice, Sir Albert Palmer today warned local newspapers over comments on the work of the judiciary.Sir Albert made specific reference to an editorial comment in the Solomon Star newspaper last month which equates the prolonged detention of criminal suspects at Rove prison to those of Guantanamo Bay in Cuba.The newspaper accused the judiciary using quotes from international organizations and individuals saying Guantanamo bay is a “symbol of injustice and abuse”.Another local weekly newspaper, the National Express also carried a similar story after interviewing local lawyers on a hunger strike by inmates last week.But Sir Albert said the Solomon Islands justice system is doing all the best it can do with the available resources it has.The Chief Justice urged the media not to ignore the fact that even with limited resources – the High Court has disposed of up to 14 social unrest related cases to date – which involved some multiple defendants and lengthy trials.He said while a free press is equally important to a democracy through the right to free speech – the media has real responsibilities that match its considerable rights just like constitutional post holders and every other citizen.Sir Albert said the rule of law and the rights that underpin it are as much at risk by slow erosion as by quick revolution. |
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| MOTI AFFAIR: INQUIRY INTO LAWYERS CASE |
SIBConline news
19:42 hrs
7/03/2007
The Papua New Guinea Defence Force Board of Inquiry into the clandestine escape of Julian Moti will present “edited version’’ of its findings to the acting Defence Minister at the end of this week.Post Courier reports no changes would be made to the previous submission which acting Defence Minister and Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare had told the inquiry to rewrite when it was submitted to him last week.Inquiry board member retired Brigadier General Tony Huai said yesterday the inquiry was working on the report to be submitted to Sir Michael at the end of the week. General Huai said it would be up to Sir Michael to deal with those involved in the clandestine operation that spirited Moti to Solomon Islands in a PNGDF CASA Aircraft. The inquiry accepted in its final submission Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare, through Ambassador Rongap and Chief of Staff Leonard Louma, had directed the National Security Chief Joseph Assaigo's to get rid of Moti from PNG. Sir Michael, during a press conference last week, had said he was implicated in the inquiry's final report. However, he said, he would accept the report once it had been edited and free from errors. |
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| MISSION MEETS MALAITA PREMIER |
SIBCOnline news
19:46 hrs
7/03/2007
RAMSI Special Coordinator Tim George has said he was very pleased to visit Malaita to meet with the new Premier Mr Richard Irosaea Na’amo, church leaders and the community. He says it is vital that they spend time in all the provinces, including Malaita, to listen to the views of people and their leaders. Mr George says this is the best way to continue our close working relationship with Solomon Islanders living in rural areas..He thanks the Premier for the opportunity to meet to discuss issues important to Malaita and provide a briefing about RAMSI’s work. Mr George says RAMSI is in a different phase to when it was first invited into the country to help restore law and order.He says they are now working very closely with the Solomon Islands Government in the area of economic reform, machinery of government, and law and justice to help Solomon Islands remain safe, prosperous and well-governed.Mr George says another important aspect of RAMSI is that it is a regional partnership, now including all 15 countries of the Pacific and the Solomon Islands.Meanwhile, Premier Na’amo thanked RAMSI for its support of a number of projects in Malaita and looked forward to staying in touch with the Special Coordinator.Mr Na'amo says RAMSI’s relationship with the Malaita Province and its people has been constructive and worthwhile.The Premier says he believes there are many good projects coming up and look forward to working with RAMSI in the future. Mr George said he felt energised by the day, in particular talking with people at a public meeting in the Auki market. |
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| CUBA OFFERS SOLOMON ISLANDS SCHOLARSHIPS |
SIBConline news
19:48 hrs
7/03/2007
Solomon Islands and Cuba reinforced bilateral cooperation Tuesday through several accords, including the sending of a Cuban medical brigade and 50 scholarships to Cuban medical schools.The agreements were signed by Foreign Ministers Patteson Oti and Cuban Felipe Perez Roque.Overseas media reports the agreements demonstrate the willingness of both governments to lay the foundations to further develop multilateral ties.At the ceremony Mr Oti, who met with other Cuban officials as well, said his country wished to take particular advantage of Cuba's experience in health care and mining.The Cuban Foreign Minister Mr Perez Roque thanked Solomon Islands for its support at international forums, particularly its vote against the US blockade, and remarked both nations are small island countries confronting common dangers.Cuba and Solomon Islands established diplomatic ties in 2003. |
| posted by administrator @ 12:58 PM |
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| Monday, March 05, 2007 |
| State of emergency declared in Vanuatu’s capital after two deaths |
Radio NZ International
Posted at 22:19 on 04 March, 2007 UTC
Vanuatu’s council of ministers has declared a state of emergency in the capital Port Vila following deadly tribal clashes in the weekend.
The conflict between people of Tanna and Ambrym islands at the Blacksands squatter settlement area on the fringe of the capital left two men dead, one from each side.
The Prime Minister Ham Lini and chiefs from the affected communities met yesterday, before the cabinet met to also discuss how to stop the tension.
Mr Lini says the two-week state of emergency will forbid public meetings in Vila, restrict movement between other islands and Efate, and also some movement between suburbs of the capital.
The fighting erupted over an allegation that a man from Ambrym had used black magic to hurt a Tannese at the settlement. A young Tannese was killed in a cane knife attack, alledgely by a man from Ambrym. In return, a young man from Ambrym who was visting relatives in Port Vila was also stabbed to death.
News source: Radio NZ International |
| posted by administrator @ 12:40 PM |
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| Friday, March 02, 2007 |
| RAMSI Leaders Launch Provincial Consultations |
RAMSI .come
Submitted by Anne McCaig on Sun, 04/03/2007 - 6:27pm.
Sunday 4th March 2007
RAMSI Leaders have begun a fresh round of provincial consultations, holding meetings with the newly elected governments of Guadalcanal and Malaita provinces.
RAMSI Special Coordinator, Tim George said today that he was keen to consult regularly with all nine provinces of Solomon Islands.
“RAMSI has enjoyed a very good working relationship with the provinces and I want to continue to work closely with the governments, chiefs and people of all nine provinces,” Mr George said today.
On Monday, Mr George leads a delegation of senior RAMSI leaders to Auki, capital of Malaita province, for RAMSI’s first meeting with the new premier, Mr Richard Irosaea Na’amo and his executive.
This follows a very useful and constructive meeting last month between RAMSI leaders and the new premier of Guadalcanal, Mr Joash Salani and his executive.
In addition to meeting with the Malaita provincial executive tomorrow, the delegation will also meet with Malaita church leaders and hold a community meeting to brief the public on RAMSI’s work in the province and nationally.
It will be Mr George’s third visit to Malaita since becoming Special Coordinator in October last year.
The RAMSI delegation includes, the assistant Special Coordinator, Maitasi Lomaloma of Fiji, the PPF Commander, Will Jamieson, RAMSI military commander, Lieutenant Colonel Rowan Martin, and a representative of the mission’s Development Coordinator, Ms Penny Bond.
Mr George said he placed a high priority on these provincial consultations, which were vital if RAMSI’s partnership with Solomon Islanders was to be truly effective nationwide.
“RAMSI has always recognised the key role provincial governments play in the administration and development of this nation,” Mr George said.
“With the majority of the population living in rural areas administered by these governments, it makes sense for RAMSI to works closely with the provincial authorities,” he said.
RAMSI has personnel, including members of the Participating Police Force, working in every province. |
| posted by administrator @ 4:06 PM |
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| VC TARR OFFERED THREE JOBS BEFORE RESIGNATION |
Veniana Tokaduadua
Islands Business
Fri, 2 Mar 2007
SUVA, Fiji ----- The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Vice-Chancellor (VC), Professor Anthony Tarr already has three job offers.This was revealed by Tarr after he announced his resignation this week as VC of one of the biggest regional educational institutions.One of those job offers included heading an international insurance company.“I have been offered the CEO position of a large International insurance organisation. And I am also shortlisted for two senior academic positions in Australia and the USA.“I will wait to see which of these fits in with my wife’s career opportunities,” said Professor Tarr.In a media release by USP, Pro Chancellor and the Chair of the USP Council, Fiame N. Mata’afa said it was regrettable the VC was leaving.Mata'afa said Professor Tarr had acted with ‘speed, energy and purpose’ in putting in place the structure, processes and key personnel necessary to secure excellence at the university.The Pro Chancellor commended Tarr for his dealings with external stakeholders, such as the regional countries, aid agencies and corporate sector.Also commended was the VC’s establishment of the All Rounder scholarship, which is intended for talented sportspeople who are also capable of pursuing academic education.On the question of whether plans he had for the University will be affected by his resignation, he said they were not going to be affected at all.“The university has been completely restructured with responsibility assigned to the Deans of new faculties and Directors of various offices, such as the Information Technology, the Library and Distance Education. “They are all working really well at implementing a new strategic plan that covers the period of 2006 to 2010,” said Professor Tarr. |
| posted by administrator @ 3:59 PM |
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| PNG police offers to protect Sogavare |
The National Online
2/03/07
By HARLYNE JOKU
PAPUA New Guinea has offered to provide a close personnel protection unit to Solomon Islands prime minister Manasseh Sogavare.The arrangement will be made under the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (Ramsi), Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Paul Tiensten confirmed yesterday.He said the offer was made when Solomon Islands foreign minister Patterson Oti was in PNG.Mr Tiensten said details were yet to be put in place.“We will provide personnel who are well trained at Bomana, equivalent to international standards and have the necessary skills to protect the Solomon Islands prime minister. I am sure our police will do a good job,” Mr Tiensten said.He said the issue of arming was sensitive. “The question of whether the unit will be armed is a contentious matter that will be discussed in the coming days.” He also announced that Ramsi had decided to increase the PNG police contingent from10 to 20 in view of the country’s prominent role in the region.Mr Tiensten said the PNG Government appreciated the gesture and Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare had agreed that PNG would provide additional police personnel.He said the decision by the PNG Government had enabled Solomon Islands government to reconsider its previous position to rearm the Solomon Islands police force.Mr Tiensten said the PNG Government had commended the Solomon Islands government’s decision not to rearm the Solomon Islands police force.Mr Tiensten made the comments at a joint press conference with the special coordinator of Ramsi Tim George and special coordinator Masi Lomaloma at Parliament House yesterday.It is Mr George’s first visit to PNG since taking over the post from James Bradley, who is now the new Australian high commissioner to Fiji.Mr George is here to inform the Prime Minister and PNG leaders and officials on the progress of Ramsi. He said PNG’s contribution to Ramsi was of high value.On the issue relating to PNG’s offer to send a police unit to protect Solomon Islands PM, George said more details needed to be worked out with police commissioner. “Whatever arrangements reached should be what Sogovare is comfortable with,” Mr George said.He added there was a good framework in place under the Ramsi arrangement with the SI police force. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:52 AM |
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| OPPOSITION CONCERN OVER SPENDING FOR GOVERNMENT MINISTER |
SIBConline news
19:06 hrs
1/03/2007
The government is spending 160-thousand dollars on a trip by Provincial Government Minister Japhet Waipora, his wife a two others to South Korea to witness the handing over of a ship for the West Makira constituency.The other two include Mr Waipora's Permanent Secretary and his Executive Personal Secretary.Opposition Leader Fred Fono says he understood the Prime Minister's Office had spent 95-thousand dollars on return airfares, per diems and imprest for Mr Waipora and his Permanent Secretary.The Opposition leaders says the department of Provincial Government had spent 70-thousand dollars in return airfares, imprest and per diem for Mrs Waipora and his Executive Personal secretary.He however says there is no provision in the Parliamentary Entitlement's Regulation for ministers to take their spouses on overseas trips, except the Prime Minister.Mr Fono says there is no justification for Mr Waipora to include his wife and Executive personal secretary in the trip.He however applauds Mr Waipora for helping the people of West Makira with the one-million dollar ship from South Korea. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:51 AM |
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| MALAITA MAN ASKED TO DISCUSS HIS CLAIMS WITH TRIBES PEOPLE |
SIBConline news
19:12 hrs
1/03/2007
A man from Malaita who claims that the true landowners of Fataleka are not part of an association, formed to represent landowning groups in the Auluta Palm oil project has been told to return home and discuss with his tribe.A Charles Samani has questioned through the media why the true landowners of Bina tribe are not included in the association of landowners that mediates between government and their people on the project.He says this is a problem that could impact on the progress of the Auluta palm oil project.However, Permanent Secretary Special Duties in the department of Agriculture and Livestock, Francis Lomo says it is proper for people with such concerns to discuss it with his department.Mr Lomo says such comments are not fair and are not in the best interest of the project.He questions where Samani was living in the past two years because those who represented Bina tribes have been mandated by their tribes in east Fataleka.Mr Lomo says this seems more an internal matter to Bina tribes and has nothing to do with the department.He says people like Samani should return to east Fataleka and question why he was not included in his tribal trust board.Mr Lomo says land issues are sensitive and when people raise an issue which is misleading, it might have an impact on how people perceive projects like Auluta palm oil.He says this the first time a huge amount of land is being mobilised for a national project. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:48 AM |
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| RAMSI Leaders shocked by PM's claims on road accidents |
RAMSI News
Submitted Thu, 01/03/2007 - 6:04pm
Thursday 1st March 2007
RAMSI leaders today rejected claims by the Prime Minister that RAMSI personnel have been involved in road accidents that have resulted in the deaths of Solomon Islanders.
RAMSI has not killed anyone and strongly denies that there is a ‘cover-up’ of any sort, a joint statement issued by all four RAMSI heads said today.
RAMSI Special Coordinator, the Commander of the Participating Police Force (PPF), the Military Commander and RAMSI’s Development Coordinator said they had decided to jointly issue the statement after the Prime Minister claimed in the National Parliament last Friday that ‘a number of Solomon Islanders’ had died as a result of road accidents involving RAMSI and that these deaths had ‘gone unpunished’. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:43 AM |
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| Thursday, March 01, 2007 |
| MOTI AFFAIR: Unions to petition PM over Moti saga |
The National Online
1/03/02
By JULIA DAIA BORE
FOURTEEN affiliated Trade Union Congress (TUC) members met yesterday in Port Moresby and called on Sir Michael Somare to step down as Prime Minister over the sacking of the Defence Minister; a culmination from the PNGDF Inquiry into the Moti saga.
They said they would present their demands in a petition to the office of the Prime Minister today.
They also demanded the Ombudsman Commission to intervene and deal with the issue. A failure to meet this demand would see the TUC and its affiliated members call for a mass withdrawal of all services throughout the nation.
In a press conference in Port Moresby, the 14 union leaders said it was a serious national issue.
“Basically, the integrity of the nation and its three arms of Government are nowat stake. The Constitution that runs the nation is at stake.
“The father of the nation, in his actions to sack the Defence Minister and replace him over an issue that allegedly implicates him as Prime Minister, calls for him to step down,” a union member said.
“The PM must step aside to allow due process to take place,” PNGTUC General-Secretary John Paska said.
The members said they were not too happy that the Opposition had not come out strongly against the whole issue.
Asked if they would get clearance to effect the mass withdrawal of the workforce, Mr Paska said “this was not an industrial issue, it was a national issue”.
“It is also a moral issue; it is about integrity,” Dr Kauve Pomat of the National Doctors Association said. |
| posted by administrator @ 12:37 PM |
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| BREAKING NEWS: USP VICE-CHANCELLOR RESIGNS |
By fijivillage
Mar 1, 2007, 07:18
The Vice Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific, Professor Anthony Tarr has resigned.
Village News has received confirmation that Professor Tarr tendered his resignation effective 30th April this year.
Tarr is expected to announce his decision later today.
However, Village News understands that he is resigning for personal and family reasons.
Tarr could not be reached for a comment. |
| posted by administrator @ 12:31 PM |
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| Pacific Politics: Somare Bites Back |
New Matilda.com
By: Maryann Keady
Wednesday 28 February 2007
Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare has now disbanded the Defence Force Board of Inquiry looking into the escape of Australian fugitive Julian Moti from PNG last year.
The Board had earlier found that the PNG Prime Minister must have known about the clandestine military flight that helped Moti avoid extradition to Australia. But under charges by Somare that it was biased and a political witch hunt, PNG’s Defence Minister Martin Aini was forced to scuttle its work. And in a further dramatic move, the Defence Minister has now been sacked.
In an interview with me last week, Somare stated that he believed there was a political motive behind the charges that he helped Moti escape PNG, despite the latter being arrested by Australian Federal Police on child sex charges:
These are allegations. You have to understand there are people in this country … including some Australians too, who don't want to see me be the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea because it is going to be difficult for them to get anything they want.
And all I want to say is that I never helped Moti in this particular case. I did my best, I had the advice, and I allowed the process of court to take its course, and that is where it stops. I don't give directions. I only give directions to the Chief Secretary. He is the Chief Advisor to government. He then directs his public servants, and that is where the buck stops.
… there are people around who are pushing that particular issue because there are elections coming up — I am not that stupid.
Somare is running for re-election in national elections, expected to take place in June. In the last few days, Moti himself has claimed that he will sue the Howard Government over the child sex allegations, which were thrown out of a Vanuatu court in 1999.
The affair reveals much about relations between Australia and our northern neighbors. Take the Solomon Islands, for example. The Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare recently claimed that Canberra was operating a ‘parallel government’ in his country — hitting back after Australia’s Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said Sogavare was trying to destroy the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI), and after Downer took out ads in local papers, calling on Solomon Islanders to stand by RAMSI and reject attempts to re-arm the police. Sogavare accused Canberra of dirty tactics, and circumventing correct diplomatic procedure in writing to the local papers.
Is this the way Pacific relations are to be played out? Has Australia decided to strong arm Pacific Island nations, and to hell with the consequences? Or could it be, as some suggest, that Moti was going to point the finger of blame at Australian police for the riots in Honiara?
Speaking from the coastal town of Wewak in PNG last week, Prime Minister Somare did little to dispel the accusation that Australia has taken on a colonial attitude to our Pacific neighbours.
Speaking passionately about the need for Pacific countries to be run by their own people, Somare launched a scathing attack on Canberra:
We are running a country, we are a government, we are an institution that is established, and we have run those institutions from the beginning … and now 32 years after independence, we’re running things the way we believe it can be run, and it is our society. We know the problems associated with our people, and we believe if we have an Australian there as an advisor, we will accept him there as an advisor …
But to come in and tell us we are weak and we cannot perform … you are not giving us a challenge to try and see the education that you have instilled in the minds of the Papua New Guineans. You are not allowing us to make that work. And suddenly you are coming up and telling us that you know better, that you can do better than us … Work side by side. And help Papua New Guineans to progress … Allow the independent sovereign people decide for themselves what they need for their country.
As to Downer’s claims that, as PNG’s biggest contributor of aid, Australia had a right to a say in PNG’s affairs, Somare raised serious questions about the intent and effectiveness of Australian aid:
That 800 million [dollars in Australian aid], if you work it out, if you look at the consultancies you pay the Australians, if you break that down … 300 million is actually the grant in aid. The rest is Australian-paid, Australian-controlled programs. They pay their highly paid consultants, they put them in big compounds with high salaries and after six minutes past four everyone goes out of their office and doesn’t stay and collect all the routine matters that need to be tidied up …
But I think that ‘Australian aid song’ that Australian voters are being told is not correct. You can work out that almost half of the money, almost two thirds of the money goes back to Australian pockets …
As the first leader of PNG after independence, Somare has a long political memory. He is vocal about Australia’s treatment of his people after World War II, during the fight for independence, and today.
If I go back to my experience on how we were treated, people talk about South Africa. But young people of Papua New Guinea really don’t know — when we had former Australian expatriates who settled in our plantations, the race relationship was worse …
But in PNG, we will sit over these things … The racism that was practised in this country, Papua New Guineans never talk about it. We want to leave these bad things — these bad deeds of others — behind, and progress on.
Historically, PNG has always had a role in Australia’s defence, and the depiction of the Pacific as ‘failed states’ for the last few years must be read in this context. While the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) and other so-called ‘independent’ think tanks continue to depict Pacific Island nations as on the verge of collapse and overrun by criminals, this can also be read as diplomatic talk that camouflages not just ‘strategic’ but defence rationale.
As Hugh White, one time Deputy Secretary for Strategy and Intelligence in Australia’s Defence Department, and former head of ASPI, said of Australia’s Pacific policy in 2004:
I think this is more than a passing fad. It has deep roots in Australia’s basic strategic instincts — going back to Alfred Deakin and other early Australian strategists — about the importance of these islands to Australia’s security. And it reflects important long term changes in Australian perceptions of our interests and responsibilities in the region.
The Australian Government’s rhetoric about failed States and ‘the arc of instability’ comes from a security agenda that requires these nations to be depicted as constantly on the brink of chaos.
John Howard has referred to ‘an inherently unstable situation’ in PNG — but the cry in the region is: Who is creating the instability, and who benefits?
There has been a coup in Fiji, unrest, ‘outside influences’ and ‘shadowy forces’ in East Timor, riots in the Solomons and in Tonga.
And this is not just a Liberal Party pre-occupation. Robert McLelland, Shadow Defence Minister indicated in 2006 that Labor under Kevin Rudd would maintain the current direction of ‘hands on’ administration of the Pacific.
Recent comments from the leader of both PNG and the Solomon Islands indicate, however, that they are not happy about the intrusive nature of the Australian ‘Pacific Policy.’
Somare talks of ‘the West, maybe fearing China,’ in reference to the new economic player in the region. PNG, has inked a $1billion dollar agreement with Chinese company Metallurgical Group Corp (MCC) for the Ramu nickel project — the largest such project with the Chinese in the region. Despite disquiet over labour conditions at the mine, as well as allegations that his former Ambassador to China facilitated illegal entry of Chinese citizens into the country, Somare says they are small problems of ‘public relations’ and unsubstantiated allegations:
China has been a good partner to us. Since we established our diplomatic relations they have not been very forceful. They do not tell us ‘because we have a big investment in PNG, you should follow our laws and regulations.’ No. We have a better understanding. There is proper dialogue, and in a South East Asian context it’s understanding each other that counts most.
As to concerns that cosy bilateral relations with a country the USA calls their ‘peer competitor’ might lead to further unwanted scrutiny from Canberra, Somare maintains it is simply about business:
We want to stay a neutral country. We do not want the ideologies of West and East, even though it has died out. And China becoming powerful, very powerful economically, they will create it into an economic ideology. And we don’t want to fight the war. We are friends and I said before ‘We want to be friends — and enemy to none’ …
I think that all the countries of the world … fear China, but I personally don’t see any reason why we should. If we control ourselves, and maintain and sustain ourselves well, I don’t see a reason why we should be fearful of Chinese control.
Whether or not Somare is returned in the PNG elections, the current machinations in the Pacific will continue. Attempts by Australia to discredit those that challenge Canberra’s heavy-handed tactics will only further tarnish our image in the region. Sir Michael Somare fought for PNG’s independence 32 years ago. At 70, he should not have to remind Canberra to respect his country’s sovereignty — and his people.
The Australian Government must be careful to respect the sovereignty of our nearest neighbours or risk the charge of ‘colonial interference’ being leveled at every Australian action in the region. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:30 AM |
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| PEOPLE CONDEMN THREAT AND SWEARING |
SIBCOnline News
18:43 hrs
28/02/2007
The people of a North Malaita tribe have condemned the disrespect shown to their member of Parliament, Daniel Enele Kwanairara.
Opposition leader and MP for Central Kwara'ae, Fred Fono, Independent leader and MP for North Malaita, Enele Kwanairara; East Are Are MP, Edward Huniehu and Small Malaita MP William Haomae have all received death threats from unidentified people believed to be living in Honiara.
They were threatened prior to the planned motion of no confidence in the Prime Minister last Friday.
Chief Kemuel Konainao of the Fauthari Tribe of North Malaita says the threat and swearing at their leader is a very serious matter according to their tradition.
"We are sad that our leader Enele Kwanairara who represents us in Parliament had been threatened and sworn-at. We are disappointed and that we would like the government to look into the matter. The threat and swearing are very serious matters."
Meanwhile, Chiefs of Central Kwara'ae have also expressed similar sentiments.
The chiefs condemn the threats on the lives of the four Malaita MPs and the swearing on the leaders and their families.
The Central Kwara'ae chiefs say they believe those who made the defamation on the leaders are supporters of the present government.
The chiefs therefore call on the government to consider the matter seriously. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:25 AM |
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| OPPOSITION LEADER WELCOMES GOVERNMENT DECISION |
SIBConline new
18:53 hrs
28/02/2007
The Parliamentary Opposition Leader Fred Fono welcomes the decision by the Prime Minister not to re-arm the police.
He says the decision means that Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare has listened to the concerns raised by a wider cross section of the Solomon Islands including the Parliamentary Opposition about the Governments plan to re-arm the Close Protection Unit of the Police.
Mr Fono encourages Mr Sogavare to continue to listen to the concerns raised by members of the public.
But Mr Fono disagrees that armed protection for dignitaries should be carried out only by members of the Papua New Guinea Police component of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, RAMSI.
He says that as RAMSI is a regional initiative, police from other participating Pacific countries should also be involved in providing security for Solomon Islands dignitaries. |
| posted by administrator @ 8:01 AM |
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