tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58172585750203746592024-02-18T23:38:50.493-08:00KINGDOM EXTREMISTUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-92147846582886917472009-05-31T17:59:00.000-07:002009-05-31T18:25:18.473-07:00Asia Tour a Success: Sikua<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndvg9o6ydVuia7ZaNVWr1G3-wqobS6XEgyMoyZcGMVoggaXT-LY_dUIz3Yt66OFknlHzW2p5L7dfycQJQ-j7VQ28xgvSwffbhv6N_GL2GG_CdR5Y-FpOyYQznTPBxZyJPBCEAIDM-hRAF/s1600-h/untitled.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342163754621808834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 251px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 167px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndvg9o6ydVuia7ZaNVWr1G3-wqobS6XEgyMoyZcGMVoggaXT-LY_dUIz3Yt66OFknlHzW2p5L7dfycQJQ-j7VQ28xgvSwffbhv6N_GL2GG_CdR5Y-FpOyYQznTPBxZyJPBCEAIDM-hRAF/s320/untitled.JPG" border="0" /></a>Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua said his 25-day tour of three Asian countries was a success.<br />"It has certainly been a long trip but it was a successful one.<br /><br />It was cost effective and beneficial to Solomon Islands," Prime Minister Sikua told a media conference just after his arrival last week in Honiara.<br /><br />"It is important that we remain engaged with our friends and partners in the region and globally. The challenged we face today such as financial crisis, climate change and environmental degradation, to name just a few, are issues that individual countries cannot address on their own. It requires the collective effort and commitment of all countries concerned," he said.<br /><br />Prime Minister Sikua said the Solomon Islands Government commitment to its international relations such as the ROC-Pacific Allies Summit is important as it demonstrates Solomon Islands commitments to this partnership as well as to the bilateral relationship between Taiwan and Solomon Islands.<br /><br />Dr Sikua said the trip with his delegation to Indonesia "demonstrates our political commitment to the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI)" and that the presence of Solomon Islands at the highest level of representation shows to our partners and donor agencies that we do care about our marine resources and ecosystems.<br /><br />"The PALM 5 Summit in Japan shows our commitment to work closely with the countries in the region and Japan to address the many challenges facing us"."It shows that we value our relations with these countries and are serious in working with them to address these challenges," Dr Sikua said."What sort of signal do we send them or the region if we did not attend the Summit? I believe Solomon Islands will benefit from the funding support (50 billion Yen) announced by the Japanese Prime Minister for the Pacific Islands following the summit," Dr Sikua said.Dr Sikua said it is also important to note that the actual benefits of such official engagements at this highest level usually come after.He said his Cabinet Ministers and government officials will now need to work hard at their levels to follow up and ensure that Solomon Islands does benefit from the funding support that will be available for programs and projects for the CTI and the PALM 5 outcome and action plans.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=4056">Solomontimes</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-58138753875727330752009-02-27T14:35:00.000-08:002009-02-27T14:38:54.285-08:00Auluta oil palm launching today<strong>A HIGH level government delegation is now in Auki ahead of today’s ground breaking ceremony of the proposed Auluta Palm Oil Project in east Malaita. </strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>They’ll join village and chiefs of Auluta this morning in the ceremony, to be held at Fera’abu village.National Coordinator of the Project, George Boe, said today’s ceremony will be historic for people in the area and Malaita Province.Deputy Prime Minister Fred Fono, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Selwyn Riumana with other government ministers will travel to Auki this morning on a chartered flight in time for the ceremony.Thousands of people from Auluta and surrounding areas are expected to witness the ceremony.Today's programme will feature speeches from Malaita Premier Richard Irosaea, landowning reps, Agriculture and Livestock Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister.This will be followed by the signing and presentation of perpetual estate of the land by Commissioner of Lands and Auluta Basin tribal groups and then planting of palm oil trees.Each of the two main tribes will be presented with $150,000 each as a token of appreciation from the Government.</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Source: <a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/">Solomon Star</a></strong>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-59538246769277262142008-11-20T16:36:00.000-08:002008-11-20T16:41:02.922-08:00Speaker Highlights GFC in Parliament Opening<strong>Speaker of Parliament Sir Peter Kenilorea has said he hopes parliament can actively assist in protecting communities across Solomon Islands from the damaging impacts of the Global Financial Crisis, GFC. </strong><br /><strong></strong><br />In a speech welcoming members of Parliament attending the current sitting, Sir Peter said since the last meeting, the world financial systems have gone into crisis and the global economy has suffered a major downturn.Sir Peter said he raised the matter because parliament represents the people of Solomon Islands in a global community. He said although Wall Street and the G20 economies seem a long way from our local villages, they are already impacting on our people in the form food prices and falling commodity prices.Experts agree that the effects of the global economic crisis are a cause of concern for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) member countries. While others have downplayed the impact of GFC on PIF, it is quite apparent that in these times of crisis there are opportunities for PIF countries to address its weaknesses through regional cooperation.There is an obvious need for the region to take charge of its problems, associated with the global economic downturn, to demonstrate the resilience Forum states have shown in past crisis.Now is the time to adopt sound policies and structural reforms through a regional framework. It is up to our 50 members of Parliament to chart our way forward but in this day and age, regional cooperation is, quite realistically, the most feasible way forward.<br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=3069">Solomon Times</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-86974969609274616392008-11-19T14:45:00.000-08:002008-11-19T14:55:10.772-08:00Urgent Prayer Request for YWAMThis is a request for prayer for YWAM (Youth With A Mission) missionaries and their churches in Orissa, India. The request came from her friend, Mable Hurst, an associate of HCJB Global. Please read and make this a matter of urgent prayer.<br /><br /> Dear beloved sponsors and friends of Good News India, We have never seen anything like this. We knew that Orissa was the most resistant and hostile State in India as far as the Gospel is concerned. And we brushed off the continuous threats and harassment wefaced as we went about His work. But none of our staff imagined that they would see this kind of carnage.... And it seems to be totally under the radar of the Western Media..... Let me explain.... A militant Hindu priest and 4 of his attendants, who were zealously going around the villages of Orissa and re-converting people back to Hinduism, were gunned down by unknown assailant Orissa last weekend. <br /><br />Immediately the Christians were blamed. The cry rose up...'Kill the Christians!' And the horror began....In the past 4 days, we have first hand witness to hundreds of churches being blown up or burned and many, many dozens of Christian tribals have been slaughtered. For no other reason than they bear the name of Christ. Night and day I have been in touch with our Good News India Directors spread across 14 Dream Centers in Orissa... they are right in the middle of all this chaos. In Tihidi, just after the police came to offer protection, a group of 70 blood-thirsty militants came to kill our staff and destroy the home. They were not allowed to get in, but they did a lot of damage to our Dream Center by throwing rocks and bricks and smashing our gate, etc.<br /><br />They have promised to come back and 'finish the job'. Our kids and staff are locked inside and have stayed that way with doors and windows shut for the past 3 days. It has been a time of desperately calling on the Lord in prayer.More police have come to offer protection. In Kalahandi, the police and some local sympathizers got to our dream center and gave our staff and kids about 3 minutes notice to vacate. No one had time to even grab a change of clothes or any personal belonging. As they fled, the blood thirsty mob came into the building. We would have had a mass funeral there, but for His grace.In Phulbani, the mob came looking for Christian homes and missions. The local Hindu people, our neighbors turned them away by saying that there were no Christians in this area. So they left. We had favor.Â<br /><br /> The same thing happened in Balasore.All our dream centers are under lock down with the kids and staff huddled inside and police outside. The fanatics are circling outside waiting for a chance to kill. Others were not so fortunate. In a nearby Catholic orphanage, the mob allowed the kids to leave andlocked up a Priest and a computer teacher in house and burned them to death. Many believers have been killed and hacked into pieces and left on the road.... even women and children. At another orphanage run by another organization, when this began, the Director and his wife jumped on their motorbike and simply fled, leaving all the children and staff behind. Every one of our GNI directors that I have spoken to said: 'We stay with our kids.... we live together or die together, but we will never abandon what God has called us to do.'More than 5000 Christian families have had their homes burned or destroyed. They have fled into the jungles and are living in great fear waiting for the authorities to bring about peace. But so far, no peace is foreseen. This will continue for another 10 days....supposedly the 14 day mourning period for the slain Hindu priest. Many more Christians will die and their houses destroyed. Many more churches will be smashed down. The Federal government is trying to restore order and perhaps things will calm down. We ask for your prayers. Only the Hand of God can calm this storm. None of us know the meaning of persecution. But now our kids and staff know what that means. So many of our kids coming from Hindu backgrounds are confused and totally bewildered at what is happening around them. So many of their guardians have fled into the jungles and are unable to come and get them during these trying times. Through all this, I am more determined than ever to continue with our goal: the transformation of a community by transforming its children. <br /><br />Orissa will be saved... that is our heart's cry. If we can take these thousands of throw-away children and help them to become disciples of Jesus, they will transform an entire region. It is a long term goal, but it is strategic thinking in terms of the Great Commission.What can you do? First, please uphold all this in fervent prayer. Second, pass this e-mail on to as many friends as you can. We must get the word out and increase our prayer base for this is spiritual warfare at its most basic meaning. We are literally fighting the devil in order to live for His Kingdom. The next 10 days are crucial. We pray for peace and calm to pervade across Orissa. Thank you for taking the time to read this. Please pass it on and help us to get as many people to partner with us on this cutting-edge effort to fulfill His mandate: Go and make disciples of all nations....Prayer works!Blessings,<br /><br />Sources : Chip & Sandy Wanner Col 2:2 MBI Team Facilitators to YWAM frontlinesÂUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-46053334324224064562008-11-17T18:00:00.000-08:002008-11-17T18:40:52.701-08:00APPOINTMENT OF NORTH MALAITA STUDENT ASSOCIATION NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM.North Malaita student at Laucala campus has appointed their new Leadership team for the end of this semester and next year 2009.<br /><br />North malaita student association was comprises of the following dialects or main languages of the northern part of Malaita, that is Toabaita students, Mbaelelea students, Lau student, Baegu and FataLeka student. who are pursuing their study at the university of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus.`<br /><br />The newly appointed leadership team are as follows<br /><br />President: Jones Otafalu<br />Vice President: Linus Samani<br />Secretary: Brian Mangi<br />Treasurer: Blondie Akwasia<br />Cultural Rep:1. Enly Saeni<br />2. Ken<br />Social Welfare1. John Buata<br />2. Ruth Ramo<br />Fundraising Coordinators:1. Danny Waneoroa<br />2. Jennifer Delemani<br /><br />During the Final meeting and Handing over Ceremony,One of the Out going student Leader Trevor Mae’eda has stated that North malaita student have played significant role in the SISA (Solomon Islands Student Association) community especially in the Independences celebration and the UPS open Day, our contribution to SISA is recommendable and as wel as other association with SISA community.he said, those good things should be maintain by the newly appointed leadership team and the students or even build upon.<br /><br />Mean while Stevaldo who looks after northern student social wel-fare has embraces the new leadership team and the student body to work together, he said 'having in mind that we are not educated only for the aid of our Families but to help Solomon Islands as whole after we finished our program.<br /><br />Hence, the out going President, Milfred Delemani, has Given his last speech, that carry such a responsibility is another curriculum from USP, its challenging but it is significant in training of leaderships role. and which follow suit by the refreshment. every student of north malaita were happy and looking foward to worker to gether with the New leadership team.<br /><br />JOTA.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-57878988480106599092008-11-13T17:54:00.000-08:002008-11-18T15:43:28.048-08:00What MPs getTHE Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination appreciates the opportunity to clarify confusion by Mr Morongoa regarding the need to review the National Development Plan and at the same time, put in perspective some ill-informed information carried therein on Minister of Development Planning’s overseas travel. Sir, Mr Morongoa will know very well that, the CNURA government only came into power in late December 2007.Prior to that and under the leadership of the previous government, the responsibility for the National Development Plan was under the mandate of the Office of the Prime Minister. However, when the CNURA government came into power in late 2007, it made the decision to re-assign the responsibility for preparation of the National Development Plan to the Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination. For the information of Mr Morongoa, under the leadership of the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination, the Ministry has now completed the draft National Development Plan, commonly referred to as the, ‘Medium Term Development Strategy – (2008 – 2010). This outlines government’s key priorities for the medium term, 2008 – 2010 and is now before Cabinet for final blessing. With regards to annual review of this document, it is an integral part of this very important document and the Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination will embark on putting in place a mechanism for that as soon as practical after clearance from Cabinet.Secondly, Mr Morongoa has misconstrued the responsibility of the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination with Parliamentary Entitlement Regulations (PER) and the associated overseas travel, and it is important that this is put it in perspective. For information, the PER contains the entitlements for ALL members of the Parliament, and this is similar to the ‘Conditions of Service’ for any employer.These conditions apply to all members of the Parliament during their term in Parliament.We hope Mr Morongoa is aware of the rationale for any condition of service for any employer. On the other hand, the overseas travels are Ministerial obligation and duties under his mandate as Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination. Therefore, Mr Morongoa’s concerns on the Minister’s overseas travel and the PER is not only naïve but very ill-informed. We hope the brief explanation below will give him a piece of mind.Mr Morongoa, the appointment of the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination, or any Ministerial portfolio for that matter, means that the respective Minister, is given a specific mandate to oversee and implement in as far as government policies are concerned, and this is apart from him being a member of Parliament. In this case, the Minister for Development Planning and Aid Coordination is responsible for National Development Planning and Aid Coordination matters on behalf of the government, in addition to the responsibility for his constituency as a member of Parliament. In this context, the Minister and the Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination are an important interface between the government and its development partners both at the political and implementation level respectively. Therefore, it is imperative that the necessary policy dialogue, negotiation and consultations are undertaken at the highest levels (political) where necessary to demonstrate serious government commitments to implementing both its policies and at the same time, enhance Solomon Islands confidence as a country with the international community. Mr Morongoa, this cannot always happen in-country because the headquarters including decision makers of our development partners, both multilateral and bilateral, are overseas let alone the planned meetings! By the way, most of such travels are fully funded for your information.Be further informed Mr Morongoa that, in that capacity, the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination has the overall mandate to coordinate not only the national development plans and strategies, but also to coordinate the development assistance from donors and other stakeholders to support implementation of government programmes in order to ensure efficient and effective delivery of service to the people of this country. Just as an example, the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination, is also the Solomon Islands Government National Authorising Officer (NAO) for ALL European Development Fund spent in Solomon Islands . In this capacity, it is obligatory that the Minister responsible attends pre-scheduled regular and annual NAO meetings, to discuss matters relating to or affecting, the implementation of these development co-operations or development partnerships, either in the Pacific Region, any ACP state or in Brussels at the European Commission’s Headquarters or wherever the relevant meetings are held. Don’t forget Mr Morognoa that Solomon Islands is part of the global community and this is just an example of government obligation with one donor – European Union. For further information, Solomon Islands has other development partners with similar commitments. Finally, the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination equally values the responsibilities under his mandate for both government’s international and regional commitments and obligations and for national matters, especially in promoting rural and grassroot development in the country. We highly recommend Mr Morongo to listen to the radio programmes (world bilong iumi) or just buy and read a copy of the Solomon Star to know what’s happening around him.<br /><br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/">SOLOMONSTAR</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-5435553897649698102008-11-09T13:08:00.000-08:002008-11-09T13:13:08.245-08:00Police Charge Man Responsible for Attacking RAMSI Officer<strong><span style="color:#ff6600;">Solomon Islands Police Force detectives have charged a man with attempted murder after he attacked a RAMSI police officer with a bush knife. </span></strong><br /><br /><div align="justify"><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Police will allege the 39-year-old man was responsible for seriously wounding the New Zealand police officer at Avuavu on Guadalcanal's Weathercoast on 2 September 2008. On Saturday 8 November 2008, the man surrendered to police based at Avuavu after an extensive operation to apprehend the offenders responsible for the attack. The man was transported to Honiara on Saturday where detectives from the Solomon Islands Serious Crime Squad interviewed and formally charged the 39-year-old. Acting Commissioner of Police, Peter Marshall, said the two-month operation to apprehend those responsible has been successful. "This arrest is the result of some very good work by a number of dedicated police officers. For eight weeks we have been actively pursuing the offenders that committed the cowardly attack on the New Zealand police officer."I am pleased to say the man we believe responsible for inflicting the wound with the bush knife is now in police custody," he said. Three other suspects involved in the attack surrendered to police on 20 September 2008. The operation to apprehend the remaining offenders will continue. "The support from RAMSI's Participating Police Force and RAMSI military during this operation has assisted the Solomon Islands Police Force locate and arrest the offenders responsible. "I would like thank RAMSI, the community leaders and people living on the Weathercoast that have provided assistance to the Solomon Islands Police Force during the operation. "There are still a number of people wanted in connection to the attack and I ask the community to continue to work with police so the other offenders can be brought before the courts," Acting Commissioner Marshall said. The 39-year-old man is expected to face the Honiara Magistrates Court on Monday 10 November 2008.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></strong></div><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Sources:</span> <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2992">SOLOMON TIMES</a></strong>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-4372975099984847392008-11-03T13:01:00.000-08:002008-11-03T13:08:56.633-08:00Sir Nathaniel Congratulates New Malaita Bishop<strong><span style="color:#ff6600;">The Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena has congratulated Malaita's new spiritual leader, Bishop Sam Sahu on his consecration and installment in Malaita yesterday. </span></strong><br /><br />Sir Nathaniel was the Guest of Honor at the consecration ceremony at Christ the King Cathedral, Fiu village in Malaita Province. Bishop Sahu is the fifth Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Malaita. He replaces Bishop Terry Brown who retired in August this year. In his message, Sir Nathaniel encouraged Bishop Sahu to work closely with leaders and the people of Malaita province to establish a common bond suitable to addressing the socio-economic and cultural needs of the province. Sir Nathaniel said church leadership is not an easy task because it deals directly with the lives and cultures of people. "Walking in the footpath set by Christ on the cross is not a comfortable factor in any leadership role," Sir Nathaniel said. He says working together and understanding the needs of the flock is the only way to success. The Governor General also encouraged the new Bishop to take a leading role in the peace and reconciliation process in the Province. "The Church has the light to show to the world and our churches have been very influential in reconciliation and peace building in the country," Sir Nathaniel said. An estimated six thousand people gathered at Fiu village to witness the consecration ceremony on Sunday. Bishop Sahu has been chosen following an election by the Diocesan Electoral Board and the subsequent endorsement by the Council of Bishops in September this year. He holds a licentiate of Theology and a Graduate Diploma in Theology from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. He also holds a Master of Theology and a Bachelor of Theology from the Trinity College in Singapore. Bishop Sahu has previously served in various positions within the Church at the parish, Institutional and provincial level. His previous work experience includes two years as Lecturer and Acting Principal of Bishop Patterson Theological College of the Church as well as Coordinator of Evangelism and Renewal of the Melanesian Board of Mission. He is married to Rosemary Siale and they have four children; Rita, Selwyn, Linda and Jean.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2960">SOLOMON TIMES</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-1043706963709823592008-10-27T16:16:00.000-07:002008-10-27T16:19:14.911-07:00Lilo Urges Waipora to Avoid Unfounded Accusations .<span style="color:#ff6600;">Minister of Environment Gordon Darcy Lilo is calling on Deputy Opposition Leader Japhet Waipora to avoid making irresponsible calls to the Prime Minister to remove ministers. </span><br /><br />Mr Lilo was reacting to a wave of self-styled allegations by Mr Waipora in a front-page newspaper article calling on Prime Minister Sikua to remove him (Lilo) as Cabinet Minister.Mr Lilo confidently said allegations claiming his involvement in the RIPEL saga, the Tsunami and Computer funds were used as failed political tactics to discredit him.On the Tsunami funds, Mr Lilo said Waipora should consult the latest Government Audit Reports to see with his eyes that Gizo-Kolombangara is the last electorate to receive rehabilitation funds late this year.He said the funds will be channeled to the proper village-based committees in the constituency to implement their rehabilitation programs."I challenge Mr Waipora to get his facts right on this issue before making blind accusations," he said.On the Computer funds, Mr Lilo said he has never ever influenced any decision by the Central Tender Board as an Independent body to select a supplier of school computers."Again, Mr Waipora should simply consult the audit reports to substantiate his childish allegations," Lilo said.On the RIPEL issue, Mr Lilo said the truth will soon show that there are hopeless people who are working so hard to implicate him in dirty deals inside the RIPEL bribery attempts.Mr Lilo said Waipora should wakeup and does some research before barking like a toothless creature that can't bite.He said Waipora is a mature politician who must strive to show sensible political leadership rather than playing with unfounded claims.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2911">SOLOMON TIMES</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-28002587600170148232008-10-27T16:07:00.001-07:002008-10-27T16:15:51.911-07:00Waipora wants Lilo stand down<span style="color:#ff6600;">THE Opposition yesterday renewed its call for Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua to sideline his Minister for Environment and Conservation Gordon Darcy Lilo. </span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span><br />This was in view of serious corruption allegations against the MP for Gizo/Kolombangara.Deputy Opposition leader Japhet Waipora said Mr Lilo was implicated in various corruption allegations. These, he said, include:<br />Mishandling of tsunami funds,<br />The $5million Republic of China-funded Secondary Schools computer project, and<br />The alleged $3 million RIPEL bribery allegations.Mr Waipora said these allegations tarnished the image and credibility of the government.“The prime minister needs to take disciplinary action,” he said.“Dr Sikua must stand down Mr Lilo and subject him to a thorough investigation. Otherwise the people of Solomon Islands will continue to be victimised by the actions of such a self-centred individual.”Mr Waipora said it was heartening to hear the prime minister upon taking office announcing his government will address corruption head-on.“Sadly, to date amidst all the corruption allegations against Mr Lilo, no action has been taken.” He said some of the allegations were supported with evidence. Mr Waipora said the prime minister failed to provide any explanations why the government cannot sideline Mr Lilo while investigations are carried out.He added it is a miserable failure on the part of civil society groups who continue to remain silent over such blatant allegations.“It has become a case of double standard for organisations such as Transparency International. They had so much to say against the previous government.“But now they’ve lost their tongue over the same MP who, as the former Finance Minister in the previous government, was also implicated in similar scandals. “Where there is smoke there is fire, and the silence by the so-called advocates of good governance only helps breed more corruption.“The losers are the people of Solomon Islands who are struggling daily to cope with the ever increasing cost of living,” Mr Waipora said.The deputy Opposition leader said Mr Lilo should step aside while investigations into these allegations are carried out.“This is to avoid political interference, which has always been a stumbling block to stamping out corruption within our system,” Mr Waipora said.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/">SOLOMON STAR</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-86554832259200322202008-10-24T15:36:00.000-07:002008-10-24T15:39:05.514-07:00War of words Lilo takes on Wong again<span style="color:#ff6600;">ENVIRONMENT minister Gordon Darcy Lilo and Russell Islands Plantation Estates Limited (RIPEL) chairman Patrick Wong are at each other again. </span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span><br />Mr Lilo claimed Mr Wong had, on two occasions, tried to set him up.“Mr Wong sent his two associates Brian and Don to arrange a meeting with me,” Mr Lilo said.“The recent one was in May when I was acting finance minister. The two men came and said Mr Wong wants to talk to me. When I ask them what is this about, they replied: RIPEL issue. At that instant, I told them to go away,” Mr Lilo said.He said he cannot discuss the RIPEL issue with Mr Wong because this was not a personal issue. Mr Lilo said nothing was offered to him but he questioned the motive behind such approaches.“I believe Mr Wong tried to set me up to discredit my reputation,” he said.But Mr Wong has described Mr Lilo’s version of events as a lie. “There is only one solution to this argument,” Mr Wong said.“It is to allow the police to fully investigate this alleged corruption of $3 million Mr Lilo demanded from my men.“This investigation must be uninterrupted, unfretted, and not influenced or pressured in any way whatsoever.“With Mr Lilo’s own self confession and admission on SIBC two nights ago, that the minister referred to was him, a proper investigation must take its course.”Mr Wong called on Mr Lilo to step down to allow for a proper investigation.“If he refuses, the prime minister must take action. Otherwise as day follows night, Mr Lilo can never assure the nation that he will not interfere with this investigation,” Mr Wong said.He added Mr Lilo’s conversation with Brian and Don was recorded on a CD.“SIBC and other local radio stations should play the CD. That would give Solomon Islanders the opportunity to listen and decide for themselves,” Mr Wong said.He added a copy of the CD is now with police.“I hope the police will bring the truth out with their investigation,” he said.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/">SOLOMON STAR</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-90513264043833760892008-10-24T15:19:00.000-07:002008-10-24T15:35:20.173-07:00Munda hit<span style="color:#ff6600;">AN earth tremor that hit parts of Western Province early this week damaged Munda Airport runway and left an international jet stranded there. </span><br /><br />Controller of Civil Aviation Ben Kere said one of his staff was sent there to assess the damage.Reports from Munda said the quake caused a major crack on the western end of the runway, which is now sealed off.The damages prevented a private overseas jet that landed there hours earlier from leaving.The plane is still there.Gibson Ngumi from the Civil Aviation office in Munda said the earth tremor shook Munda at about 7pm Monday.Mr Ngumi said quake caused a major crack to the runway.“It’s just fortunate that no plane was landing or taking off that time. It could have been a major disaster if that happens,” Mr Ngumi added.He said crack, which is about one and half a metre deep, was located 400 metres from the western end of the runway.“It is located right in the landing zone where aircrafts normally land,” he said.Despite the damage, Mr Ngumi said Solomon Airlines aircrafts could still land at Munday.He said the runway is about 1600 metres long. Following the damage less than half of the runway is being closed.Mr Ngumi said the stranded jet needs about 1500 metres of runway to take off.“Because of the problem the jet will have to wait until repair work is done,” he said. But local air service, he said, will continue.“Solomon Airlines flights to Munda continue this week. They can still land and take off within the usable runway space,” Mr Ngumi said.He said repair work, which involves refilling the crack, is already underway.<br /><br />SOURCE: <a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/">SOLOMON STAR</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-41952813517435792862008-10-21T20:29:00.000-07:002008-10-21T20:38:41.943-07:00Solomon Islands Rejects 'Binding Obligation' in EPA<span style="color:#ff9966;">Solomon Islands is maintaining its position against the European Union's (EU) pressure on Pacific Nations for binding commitments in the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group and the EU.</span><br /><br />Deputy Prime Minister Fred Fono, who represented Solomon Islands at the 6th ACP Leaders Summit in Acra, Ghana, earlier this month, said there are outstanding issues which make Pacific States susceptible to binding obligations.Recently the Pacific region resumed negotiations with the European Commission with the view to finalizing a Goods only component of an EPA with discussions on a Services component to be negotiated later. Progress was made in some areas, but a considerable number of issues remain outstanding. However, the EC's persistent pressure for inclusion of binding commitments in the EPA on intellectual property rights, government procurement and other areas pose problems for Pacific States in relations to their capacity to accept binding obligations in such areas at this time.Fono said Solomon Islands maintains the position by Pacific ACP Group that the EPA should be more than a simple trade agreement."It should be a trade and development agreement and form the basis for a long-term relationship between the PACP Group and the EU"."For Solomon Islands export taxes constitute an important source of revenue for Government, and, the EC's insistence on its exclusion in an EPA is a cause for great concern as the obvious ramification would be one of serious fiscal problems," he explained. Fono said Solomon Islands also recognize the problems posed by the EC's demand for MFN in EPAs as this not only contradicts the Enabling Clause that fosters possible South-South trade cooperation but more so greatly inhibits policy space which is required to both develop value added and processed products and for the protection of infant industries. "Such a scenario prompts me to think that the EC's intention is to let us remain as suppliers of raw materials forever," he said. Solomon Islands is part of the Pacific ACP configuration negotiating an EPA with the EU. At the deadline of December 2007, only Fiji and Papua New Guinea signed interim agreements with the European Commission. And in spite of that, Pacific Leaders, in their most recent Summit in Niue agreed that the region continue to collectively negotiate a comprehensive EPA under the direction of the PACP Trade Ministers, and that a comprehensive EPA should be accepted only when all parties agree. Pacific Leaders agreed that the comprehensive EPA must reflect the differing circumstances and interests of all the PACPS.<br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/">Solomon Times</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-70058567643270111202008-10-20T11:54:00.000-07:002008-10-20T12:00:37.496-07:00Ontong Java Threatened by Climate Change .<span style="color:#ff9966;">The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Rence Sore has stated that relocation would not be forced upon inhabitants of the remote atoll of Ontong Java in the Solomon Islands</span>.<br /><br />The Ontong Java atoll is currently being threatened by the effects of climate change.According to Mr. Sore, the relocation for Ontong Java atoll dwellers would only be done through intensive consultations.Mr. Sore said they have been living next to the sea all their lives, eating fish and coconuts so these Islanders cannot be relocated to a place different from what they are used to.He said the government is still talking to the people of Ontong Java on how best the islanders can be relocated.But Mr. Sore said relocation for Solomon Islands is not the only option and that forced relocation could be a potential flash point in the future.Mr. Sore said salt water intrusion had devastated taro swamps in Ontong Java atoll, one of the Islander's major food crops.The Ontong Java atoll is an outlying part of the Malaita Province and its entire size is about 1400 km² and there are only 12 km² of land, spread out over 122 small islands. About 2000 people live on the atoll. (wikipedia.org)<br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/">Solomon Times</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-22203170259652888152008-10-20T11:34:00.000-07:002008-10-20T11:44:29.124-07:00GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.<span style="color:#ff9966;">The Ministry of Rural Development has spent more than eight-point-two million dollars from it's 50-million dollars Livelihood funding.</span><br /><span style="color:#ff9966;"></span><br />Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Rural Development Fred Fono was responding to criticisms that there has been little or no signs of the money being pumped into rural areas.But Mr Fono says that under the government's rural development policy, a lot of projects are being funded under his ministry.He says that out of the 50 constituencies, only 28 have so far had projects funded totaling more than eight-million dollars.Mr Fono says other constituencies will have their projects funded soon.He says the delay in disbursing money to projects and the delay in endorsement of projects is holding up the implementation of the policy but is optimistic a lot more projects for other constituencies will be funded before the end of the year.Mr Fono says other funding through other ministries will have projects handed over in the next few days while the funding under the ministry of Fisheries, project proposals are being screened.He says the government is looking at diverting all funds meant for rural area developments come under one ministry in the future.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.sibconline.com.sb/">SIBC </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-41850299106157628192008-10-17T14:23:00.000-07:002008-10-17T14:29:38.101-07:00USP Celebrates Open Day.<span style="color:#ffff33;">Students of the Laucala-based University of the South Pacific in Suva celebrated its Open Day today. </span><br /><br /> With the Open Day theme "Leading a Quality Region", students from around the Pacific showcased their unique tradition through dances and songs. Among the many participants were students from Solomon Islands who were given the honor of going on stage to be part of the show.Speaking to Solomon Islands Students Association (SISA) President, Eric Sau'eha, says having Solomon Islanders performing this year is an honor as they have missed last year's USP Open Day."As student body, SISA was proud watching the Solomon Islanders put on a real good performance having supported them in their preparation financially," he told Solomon Times.He added that this year also marks the 40th anniversary of USP "so it was a real opportunity where we were able to participate and showcase our unique tradition among other Pacific islanders".Mr. Sau'eha said that it is with pride for locals living away from home to perform in such occasion showcasing among many other Pacific island groups and "it should be something to be proud of".The Open Day attracted not just students but Suva public as well.<br /><br />Source:<a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2841">Solomon Times</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-90488796399540002502008-10-16T13:02:00.000-07:002008-10-16T13:05:06.449-07:00Listening to the Hearts and Minds of Solomon IslandersThe opinions of nearly 5,000 Solomon Islanders were given voice yesterday to an audience of Government, RAMSI, donor and development representatives at the launch of the People's Survey 2008.<br />The survey is the third annual independent nationwide study conducted by Australian National University Enterprise with the support of the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office. The survey involved Solomon Islanders interviewing 4,304 Solomon Islanders in five provinces and Honiara, as well as 74 focus group discussions.The areas of focus are: household economy; access to basic services; law and order; Solomon Islands Police Force; general questions about RAMSI; public accountability representation and civic awareness, and access to justice. In launching the People's Survey 2008, Acting Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Finance and Treasury, Elizabeth Kausimae, said the survey was more than just a tool to help measure the performance of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands."The need to understand and respond to the views of the community extends far beyond RAMSI to every government, non-government and civil society agency working to improve people's lives in Solomon Islands.""This third survey, conducted in partnership with the National Statistics Office, also provides valuable insight into the hearts and minds of our people," Ms. Kausimae said. RAMSI Special Coordinator, Tim George, said RAMSI placed a high priority on consulting directly with Solomon Islanders and measuring its work."The support of the people of Solomon Islands is vital for the success of RAMSI's work - through the restoration of peace and now through the much more difficult and longer term work of developing the capacity of government institutions to provide effective and sustainable services across the country," Mr George said."We want to ensure that RAMSI, the Government and the mission's contributing countries have access to reliable information on how people view our work and how they feel about key progress and development issues."Seventy Solomon Islanders were trained by Australian National University Enterprise to conduct the survey, travelling to five provinces and Honiara.A member of the survey team, Osborne Cains, said that a lot of work went into making sure the survey accurately captured the opinions of Solomon Islanders."The aim of the pre-survey training all interviewers undertook is to learn the correct interview technique so as not to influence people's responses," Mr Cains.Mr Cains said that before asking any of the questions, the interviewers would always explain the purpose of the visit and assure participants that all answers would be kept confidential."We talked with people in villages about how the survey was independent and how their names wouldn't be disclosed", Mr Cains said.RAMSI Development Coordinator, Paul Kelly, said that RAMSI was keen for the Government and other development stakeholders to use the survey as a tool to guide their work. "The results are generally encouraging for RAMSI's partnership with Government and people of Solomon Islands, but show significant development challenges exist for people trying to improve their lives," Mr Kelly said."The survey suggests that while people's lives are improving across many areas, access to information and services, particularly in rural areas, is still limited."<br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2835">Solomon Times</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-44552444167707701392008-10-08T20:47:00.000-07:002008-10-08T20:52:56.617-07:0025 Confirmed to Study Medicine in Cuba in 200925 young Solomon Islanders are confirmed to under take Medical studies in Cuba under the Cuban Government medical doctor scholarship arrangement in 2009.<br />The National Training Unit Director, Mr. Selu Maezama told the National Express that a meeting was held last Friday to look at a list of applicants, some short listed from the previous year.He explained that the main purpose of the meeting was to get in touch with pre-service applicants who were awarded a scholarship so that they could confirm their names. Meanwhile the Under Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services Dr. Cedric Alependava said it was a great privilege for Solomon Islanders to study in Cuba. He described the opportunity as a great bonus for Solomon Islands as we will have more qualified doctors in the near future. Dr. Alependava said he really appreciate the Cuban Government for its on-going assistance in sponsoring "more of our students' and securing spaces for them to do their studies in Cuba." He said so far the Ministry has received positive results and feedbacks from students who went to Cuba early this year. The students have moved onto their academic studies after learning the Spanish language in the first six months of their course. Dr. Alependava encouraged the newly selected students (6 girls and 19 boys) to do the same. He encouraged them to work hard to become qualified doctors and "to serve our country in years to come." He said he wants to see these students return as fully qualified doctors. Dr. Alependava said that "our country will be relieved of the problem of shortage of doctor which we are currently experiencing."Dr. Alependava said that the twenty-five students will be leaving for Cuba sometimes towards the end of this year to start their first Six months of learning the Spanish language before going commencing their academic studies.<br /><br />Source: <a href="http://www.solomontimes.com/news.aspx?nwID=2784">Solomon times</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-84509145859612237352008-09-30T02:51:00.000-07:002008-09-30T02:54:27.892-07:00Solomon Express up for saleLOCAL fast craft Solomon Express is up for sale. <br /><br />The passenger vessel has been providing shipping services mainly between Honiara and Malaita, as well as Honiara and Western Province.<br /><br />Company director Siew Hong Pau confirmed the vessel is now up for sale.<br />He said they are doing this because company directors wanted to shift from shipping to other business activities.<br /><br />Mr Pau said they’ve received enquiries after the sale of the vessel was advertised in the Solomon Star.<br /> “Most of the enquiries came from Australia, Fiji and Vanuatu,” Mr Pau said.<br /><br />He declined to disclose the selling price. “This will remain confidential,” he said.<br />A similar fast craft, Pelican Express, is operated by Elite Shipping.<br /><br />Source:<a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3836&change=71&changeown=84&Itemid=26"> solomon star</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5817258575020374659.post-8197844109470101172008-09-26T13:21:00.000-07:002008-09-26T13:25:29.295-07:00Dr Sikua sets to address UN today.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; ">PRIME Minister Dr Derek Sikua will be addressing the United Nations General Assembly today.<br /><br />He is now at the UN’s headquarters in New York.<br /><br />The country’s high commissioner to the United States, Collin Beck, said Dr Sikua early this week attended a gathering hosted by American President George Bush.<br /><br />He and his delegation also attended the opening of the 63rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly.<br />Dr Sikua also held a number of bilateral talks with selected European Union partners, including Turkey and those from the region.<br /><br />The prime minister, who is accompanied by his wife and senior officials, returns tomorrow via Nadi.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div><div>Source:<a href="http://solomonstarnews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3803&change=71&changeown=78&Itemid=26"> Solomon star.</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0