The Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena has congratulated Malaita's new spiritual leader, Bishop Sam Sahu on his consecration and installment in Malaita yesterday.
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON TIMES
Monday, November 3, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Lilo Urges Waipora to Avoid Unfounded Accusations .
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.
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON TIMES
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON TIMES
Waipora wants Lilo stand down
THE Opposition yesterday renewed its call for Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua to sideline his Minister for Environment and Conservation Gordon Darcy Lilo.
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:
Mishandling of tsunami funds,
The $5million Republic of China-funded Secondary Schools computer project, and
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
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:
Mishandling of tsunami funds,
The $5million Republic of China-funded Secondary Schools computer project, and
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
Friday, October 24, 2008
War of words Lilo takes on Wong again
ENVIRONMENT minister Gordon Darcy Lilo and Russell Islands Plantation Estates Limited (RIPEL) chairman Patrick Wong are at each other again.
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
Munda hit
AN earth tremor that hit parts of Western Province early this week damaged Munda Airport runway and left an international jet stranded there.
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
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.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Solomon Islands Rejects 'Binding Obligation' in EPA
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.
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.
Source: Solomon Times
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.
Source: Solomon Times
Monday, October 20, 2008
Ontong Java Threatened by Climate Change .
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.
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)
Source: Solomon Times
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)
Source: Solomon Times
GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.
The Ministry of Rural Development has spent more than eight-point-two million dollars from it's 50-million dollars Livelihood funding.
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.
Source: SIBC
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.
Source: SIBC
Friday, October 17, 2008
USP Celebrates Open Day.
Students of the Laucala-based University of the South Pacific in Suva celebrated its Open Day today.
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.
Source:Solomon Times.
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.
Source:Solomon Times.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Listening to the Hearts and Minds of Solomon Islanders
The 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.
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."
Source: Solomon Times
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."
Source: Solomon Times
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
25 Confirmed to Study Medicine in Cuba in 2009
25 young Solomon Islanders are confirmed to under take Medical studies in Cuba under the Cuban Government medical doctor scholarship arrangement in 2009.
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.
Source: Solomon times
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.
Source: Solomon times
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Solomon Express up for sale
LOCAL fast craft Solomon Express is up for sale.
The passenger vessel has been providing shipping services mainly between Honiara and Malaita, as well as Honiara and Western Province.
Company director Siew Hong Pau confirmed the vessel is now up for sale.
He said they are doing this because company directors wanted to shift from shipping to other business activities.
Mr Pau said they’ve received enquiries after the sale of the vessel was advertised in the Solomon Star.
“Most of the enquiries came from Australia, Fiji and Vanuatu,” Mr Pau said.
He declined to disclose the selling price. “This will remain confidential,” he said.
A similar fast craft, Pelican Express, is operated by Elite Shipping.
Source: solomon star
The passenger vessel has been providing shipping services mainly between Honiara and Malaita, as well as Honiara and Western Province.
Company director Siew Hong Pau confirmed the vessel is now up for sale.
He said they are doing this because company directors wanted to shift from shipping to other business activities.
Mr Pau said they’ve received enquiries after the sale of the vessel was advertised in the Solomon Star.
“Most of the enquiries came from Australia, Fiji and Vanuatu,” Mr Pau said.
He declined to disclose the selling price. “This will remain confidential,” he said.
A similar fast craft, Pelican Express, is operated by Elite Shipping.
Source: solomon star
Friday, September 26, 2008
Dr Sikua sets to address UN today.
PRIME Minister Dr Derek Sikua will be addressing the United Nations General Assembly today.
He is now at the UN’s headquarters in New York.
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.
He and his delegation also attended the opening of the 63rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Dr Sikua also held a number of bilateral talks with selected European Union partners, including Turkey and those from the region.
The prime minister, who is accompanied by his wife and senior officials, returns tomorrow via Nadi.
He is now at the UN’s headquarters in New York.
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.
He and his delegation also attended the opening of the 63rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Dr Sikua also held a number of bilateral talks with selected European Union partners, including Turkey and those from the region.
The prime minister, who is accompanied by his wife and senior officials, returns tomorrow via Nadi.
Source: Solomon star.
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