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New warning sign at trouble spot
Digicel grows in Caribbean market
Senior dance-off tonight
Avatiu harbour to be upgraded by 2012
New position to help in offshore industry
Freedom fighters
Dog ‘guru’ due to visit
Mama Manea! - Fun and fitness
IRB checks out CIRU
Lagoon Day to focus on practical solutions
Pacific nations propose special fund
Slow delivery hampers work
Reward for return of laptop
Youths aim further
Merchandise Launch This Saturday
Youths aim further
Wild pigs fenced out
Power and emotion in senior dancing
Joint agreement finalised between games companies
7 burglaries so far this week
Reproductive health plan in first stages
Immigration fee review still in limbo since 2003
Women in sport walk the talk
Raffle helps rebuild
Chamber not joining court action
Stocktake of gender mainstreaming capacity
Only one accident reported
Cellphones affected
Mangaia identify environment issues
Challenge focuses on second-hand smoke
Fiji barred from PALM 5
General public still using disabled parking spaces
Islands want shipping services strengthened
Maukeans discuss the environment with minister
Research group adopts new constitution
Mitiaro Day a big success
Met service, disaster management heads meet
New warning sign at trouble spot
Thursday 7: If drivers adhere to the new road warning sign at the Avatiu intersection, there should be no more accidents at the trouble spot.
Yesterday a new sign was erected on the Avatiu road leading to the intersection warning drivers to slow down as they approach the intersection.
The new bright yellow sign has been placed 75 metres from the stop sign at the intersection.
The stop sign, which was previously obscured by an overgrown hedge, is now clearly visible.
Senior Sergeant Kau Mapu says that the intersection has seen numerous accidents and many more near misses.
The incident that brought to light the need to have a clear stop sign and warning signs on the road was an accident on March 23.
Kiwi visitor Russel Corfield, 57, failed to stop at the intersection and his car was struck on the left side by a motorcycle, knocking the rider and his daughter from their bike.
In court, it was found that the conditions of the intersection, namely a ‘virtually invisible’ stop sign, contributed to the accident.
Comments by the judge prompted action – the hedge obscuring the stop sign has been trimmed back and the new intersection warning sign erected.
Mapu says that drivers are expected to slow down, as the warning sign states, as they approach the intersection and bring their vehicle to a complete stop at the stop sign.
He says that police hope that the new sign will minimise accidents in the area.
He adds that police are working closely with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning to have new road markings painted on and around the intersection.
“People need to comply with the warning on the new sign and slow down,” says Mapu.
“When you reach the intersection, stop and check for traffic then carry on your way.”
This is believed to be the first intersection warning sign on Rarotonga.
It is expected to minimise the road accidents in the problem area. - Matariki Wilson
Digicel grows in Caribbean market
Thursday 7: While Digicel Pacific’s deal to buy Telecom Cook Islands is still pending, Digicel Haiti has just announced it has reached 2.1 million mobile subscribers three years after launching there.
Digicel quickly became Haiti’s largest mobile provider with an initial investment of USD$260 million – the largest ever single private foreign investment in the country.
Digicel claims to have a market share of over 60 percent in the Caribbean nation which has a population of around 10 million people. It claim
Digicel Group is headquartered in Jamaica and incorporated in Bermuda, and has operations in 31 markets worldwide.
So far its Digicel Pacific arm comprises operations in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu.
A negotiating team is still working on the TCI sale which will see Digicel pay around $20 million for the company that is 40 percent owned by the Cook Islands government.
Government announced the deal to sell the 18-year-old company in February. - Helen Greig
Senior dance-off tonight
Thursday 7: A total of 13 dancers will take to the stage this evening for the senior dancer of the year competition at the National Auditorium.
Seven young men will vie for the senior male dancer title while six young women will give it their best on stage for the senior female dance title.
Dancers will go through their slow dance performance first before the adrenaline pumping fast beat section.
In the male section, the contestants are Eteroma Cummings, Alex Roa of Aitutaki, Okirua Okirua Jnr, Teariki Mateariki, Tuarii Yaewua, Matai Rongo and Tuteru Samson.
The female section includes Ritia Moeara, Veronica George, Mathalina Heather, Paula Turua, Louisa Mokoha and Uria George.
The prestigious dance competition will wrap up the Mire Kapa dance competition which began with the Papaa dance competition, junior and intermediate competition and the golden oldies dance off on Monday night.
The senior dancer of the year competition is a showcase of top Cook Islands dancers who have spent years perfecting the art of ura.
The competition starts at 7pm. Tickets are available from the Ministry of Cultural Development or at the door. - Matariki Wilson
Avatiu harbour to be upgraded by 2012
Thursday 7: Ports Authority chief executive Nooroa ‘Bim’ Tou says the Avatiu harbour upgrade project is likely to begin its construction phase at the beginning of next year.
While the aim was to start on construction by the end of this year, there is a strict process to be followed even before the project goes to tender.
Tou says right now the project committee is processing the technical proposal bids that cover the design and costing of the project.
Finance minister Sir Terepai Maoate has this month signed off on $26.9 million in loans to be provided by the Asian Development Bank for the project.
Tou says this is good news which means the project is going ahead and still running to schedule.
The aim is for the new and improved harbour to be opened in 2012. The construction phases will begin at the inner berth and then move out to the international berthing wharf. Tou says little disruption is expected for harbour users over the three years it will take to complete the project.
The port development project will see the harbour replaced with a climate-proofed port that will have a wider entrance and a re-alignment of the eastern side of the harbour. The upgrade will include deepening the wharf to allow 120m container ships to berth, and room for a 150m turning basin.
ADB says the harbour is dilapidated, aging, and vulnerable to storm and impact from vessels. Larger ships including cruise ships cannot berth there, limiting the economic benefits from tourism. The country handles 90 percent of imports by sea, making Avatiu harbour a critical part of the nation’s infrastructure.
The project aims to extend the life of the port by another 30 years and enhance the safety and efficiency of port operations. The last time the port was upgraded was in the 1980s. - Helen Greig
New position to help in offshore industry
Thursday 7: A new position is being created at the body responsible for the supervision of regulated financial entities and financial services in the Cook Islands
A manager for offshore services is being sought for the Financial Supervisory Commission to provide better service to the offshore industry.
“Our corporate registry needs overhauling and the legislation that governs the offshore industry, for example, the Trustee Companies Act, the International Companies Act and the International Trusts Act, needs to be reviewed and modernised,” says commissioner Lorraine Allan.
“In addition the government is creating a marketing body for offshore financial services and the FSC needs to have resources to provide technical support to that body.”
Allan says the offshore financial services industry can be grown in a number of ways so that more international companies and trust are registered in the Cook Islands.
She says better marketing of the jurisdiction – similar to what Samoa has done – product innovation, up-to-date practices in the corporate registry and competitive pricing, are just some of the ways to attract more business.
“The industry in the Cooks has shown minimal growth over the past few years and can be considered to have stagnated. However, new products do lead to new business.”
She says that after government legislated to allow limited liability companies to be created here last year, 64 LLCs registered in the first six months.
“The new Insurance Act will make it attractive for captive insurers to be licensed in the Cook Islands and this is seen as another area of growth.” - MM
Freedom fighters
Thursday 7: Cook Islands News reporter Dana Kinita (back row fourth from right) is taking part in the Pacific Freedom Forum workshop in Samoa this week with other media representatives from around the region.
The ‘Courage Under Fire’ workshop began with a keynote speech by Netani Rika, editor of the Fiji Times. Former CINews reporter and founding member of Pacific Freedom Forum Lisa Williams-Lahari is one of the organisers of the workshop.
The Pacific Freedom Forum is a regional and global online network of Pacific media colleagues, with the aim of raising awareness and advocacy of the right of Pacific people to enjoy freedom of expression and be served by a free and independent media.
Dog ‘guru’ due to visit
Thursday 7: Are you at your wits end trying to get your family dog to behave?
If you are, don’t despair.
The Esther Honey Foundation is bringing to Rarotonga internationally qualified and recognised dog behaviourist and trainer Simon Goodall (right) – the dog guru.
Goodall and his team of trainers from New Zealand will be visiting Rarotonga between Wednesday May 20 and Saturday May 23.
Goodall is the Kiwi version of American Dog Behaviourist Caesar Millan who works with problem dogs and problem owners to fix behavioural issues that are making both dog and humans life a living hell.
‘Dog Guru’ is one of New Zealand’s leading dog training and behaviour companies owned by Goodall.
Goodall is one of the few fully internationally qualified and recognised dog behaviourists and trainers.
If you are not happy with your dog’s behaviour in and around the home environment, then Goodall and his team offer advice and training for all sorts of common problems. Whether it is a major problem or minor issue they can help you to develop a better relationship with your dog and make your dog more well behaved.
There are three ways you can meet Goodall and have him help you and your family pet.
If you have a dog that could learn some manners then the one-on-one session with Goodall at your home is just the ticket.
You and your group could book Goodall for a public speaking session.
The public speaking session will see Goodall and his team plus a canine or two show just how you can help your family pet.
Schools on Rarotonga should also take up the opportunity to have Goodall come to your school where he will deliver an inspirational and educational programme.
If you would like Goodall to come to your school, bring something new to your weekly gathering or to have a one-on-one session with him then book now with Karen Galvin at the Esther Honey Foundation animal clinic in Nikao.
Email Karen on karengalvan@slingshot.co.nz or call her at the clinic on 22 336. - Matariki Wilson
Mama Manea! - Fun and fitness
Thursday 7: Every week women are having fun dancing their way to being fit and healthy.
The Mama Manea Fitness club is a free hourly class for women who want to get into shape without going to the gym.
“The goal was to encourage our women to start excercising, but instead of just getting fit and healthy we wanted to give them a goal to work towards,” club motivator Tuhe Piho says.
Traditional island dance moves are taught, and Piho hopes that through the classes the women will gain enough confidence to form their own dance team. Anyone in the community is welcome to attend including tourists.
“A lot of people visiting are keen to learn our dance,” Piho says. “Tourists are here to have a good time and enjoy themselves.”
One participant, Marina Allan, says the fun factor is why she’s a part of the club.
“I heard it through word of mouth and it seemed like a lot of fun,” Allan says. “The first time I went, I was damn sore the next day but I really enjoyed it and that’s why I’m back.”
Participants are also trained under two times former Mr New Zealand, Pittman Vaipapa. The women are taken through strength and conditioning exercises using their own body weight for resistance.
Mama Manea Fitness club is held at the Kent Hall in Titikaveka every Wednesday from 4 to 5pm. - DK
IRB checks out CIRU
Friday 8: The International Rugby Board’s Oceania regional development officer has been checking on the local union since the beginning of the week.
Lee Smith, who is based in New Zealand, has also run level one and two coaching courses, while on the island.
Yesterday he spent time with members of the Cook Islands Sports Academy at the USP centre. Smith says he has been monitoring progress on the key performance indicators which determines the level of development funding the Cook Islands Rugby Union receives from the IRB.
Meanwhile the Rarotonga club competition will kick off on June5-6, with all six clubs expected to field teams.
Also the Cooks are scheduled to play Niue in the eastern division of the Oceania Cup playoffs in New Zealand on June 27. The team, which is coached by George Metuarau, is expected to comprise of mainly New Zealand-based players.
The winner of the match will play the winner of the western division – most likely, Papua New Guinea – to decide the Oceania Cup on July 4.
The eventual winner will then play against Manu Samoa in a Rugby World Cup qualifying tournament on a home-and-away basis, beginning on July 11. - MM
Lagoon Day to focus on practical solutions
Friday 8: A green waste centre is on Teariki Matenga’s wish list for the island
The Takitumu Lagoon Day theme will be focused on solutions to address the damage being done to the lagoon, says organiser Teariki Matenga.
On Monday the organising committee for the bigger lagoon day event met to talk over how the theme will be presented.
This year Lagoon Day will be held over two days – Friday 5 and Saturday 6 June at the Ngatangiia Clubrooms and field in Muri.
Matenga says last year’s event saw problems being identified, so this year the emphasis is on solutions to the damage our actions and inaction has caused.
The damage has been done by various pollutants getting into streams and the lagoon.
Matenga says the focus this year is on how to solve the growing sewerage problem with simple and practical measures.
Already the second modified version of the banana trench sewerage system is being trialed in Takitumu. This system was showcased at last year’s event, showing a simple method of reducing the nutrients and bacteria that can seep out of septic systems by up to fifty percent.
As the driving force behind the creation of Lagoon Day, Matenga wants to see people taking ownership of the issues affecting the lagoon.
“Everyone’s effort is required to see these solutions happen.”
“Our mentality, lifestyle and the way we think needs to change. Practices need to change at home.”
Matenga says this includes emptying septic tanks when they are full.
“We talk about recycling but you can see plastic bags and cans on the roads – people throwing them out the window of their cars – and beaches littered with cans after drinking parties.
The message is take it all home with you.”
A green waste centre is on Matenga’s wish list for the island, too.
“Green waste is being buried and burnt. Collecting this waste can solve some of the problems we are seeing.”
Everything from hedge clippings, lawn cuttings, and pig farm waste could all go to a composting centre.
“We would need all the green waste on the island to sustain it. These are resources that we can utilise.”
And the resulting compost would be used to help lower the cost of agricultural production says Matenga.
“I think agriculture has been neglected and this is partly because of the high cost of fertilisers and chemicals. By composting you can reduce the level of infection of crops by insects. We would contribute to food security through a green waste facility too because compost would be sold to growers cheaper.”
Matenga says the simple solution is to use nature to reduce the impact of pollution on the lagoon.
“Once we have identified solutions the bigger picture we are trying to get across here is for government to endorse policies to support them,” says Matenga.
As organisers build up to Lagoon Day they are seeking sponsors, groups who want to take part in the booths as well as those interested in running food stalls on the Saturday.
For more information on how you can be part of the event, call coordinator Maryanne Miller on 20900 or 74004. - HG
Pacific nations propose special fund
Friday 8: Facing the acute danger of rising sea waters, Pacific island nations proposed on Tuesday that the Asian Development Bank establish a special climate fund to help them finance climate adaptation projects.
Speaking on behalf of Pacific Developing Member Countries (PDMC), Patrick Pruaitch, of Papua New Guinea, told the bank’s board of governors meeting that climate change poses significant threats to their islands.
Even now, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters is increasing in Pacific islands nations, he said.
“We propose that the bank consider the establishment of a Regional Climate Change Fund that supports programmes and projects that aim to strengthen adaptation measures that
PDMCs have prioritised,” Pruaitch said.
The PDMCs are the Cook Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Palau.
Pruaitch noted that easy access to funding would be instrumental to PDMCs, as these countries rely heavily on external assistance to support development priorities.
Because of such difficulty in accessing funds, Pruaitch called on the bank to open wider access to its concessionary Asian Development Fund to these countries.
“This is especially important in the current global environment where PDMCs are finding it more difficult to borrow funds to develop much needed infrastructure essential to support national priorities,” he said.
Apart of financing, Pruaitch also asked the bank to have a more prominent presence in PDMCs by relocating its Sydney office to a PDMC, increasing the number of resident offices, and recruiting more staff from the PDMCs. - HG/Jakarta Post
Slow delivery hampers work
Friday 8: The slow delivery of materials by ship for the country’s new airport terminal has been frustrating work on the structure.
But Hawkins project manager Russell Smith says they are keeping busy doing other work around the site.
As work on site is carried out in stages, Smith says it is helpful to have all the materials so they are not having to stop and go on to something else.
He says one container left behind in Auckland contains the fibrolite moulds for columns that are designed with artwork, and need to be cast first at Mike Rennie’s workshop.
“They are the most important ones [moulds].”
After being cast, he says, it will take a couple of weeks before they are transported to the site and put in place. Smith says they may have to fly up the moulds in order to hurry work along.
Currently the pads are being reinforced for the columns with cement expected to be poured by the end of this week.
With the next voyage of the Southern Express not expected until May 21, work will turn to the landside toilet blocks, and the new ones inside the arrival and departure areas.
After demolition and excavating the area on the inland side of the old terminal, Smith says some changes were needed in the laying of underground services. But once most of the materials arrive for the job, work will start from the Avarua side of the site and progress towards the arrivals hall which is still standing.
“It’s been a learning curve,” says Smith. “The waiting has been the hardest part. You can’t order something and expect it to be on site tomorrow morning! But we hope to have the main structure up before the [mini] games.” - MM
Reward for return of laptop
Friday 8: CI Tourism chief executive John Dean is appealing to the public this week for help in getting back his stolen personal laptop computer.
Dean says he is offering a good reward for the return of the silver Sony laptop taken from his home in Arorangi when it was burgled last Sunday night.
“They took a lot of electronic gear, but most important to me is the laptop which I had all the family photos on from the past six or seven years. They are important parts of your life.”
Dean says he’s learned his lesson about backing up files on computers, and while it may be too late for him, others need to make sure they do this.
The burglary is one of the growing number where thieves are targeting electronic items like laptops, mobile phones and MP3 devices.
If you would like to claim the reward for the laptop, contact CINews. Anyone with information on its whereabouts is asked to contact the police. - HG
Youths aim further
Friday 8: Participants on the recently-completed Te Uki Tumanava programme are looking to further their studies.
Sixteen male students completed a basic automotive and carpentry course last Monday, and already most have signed up for a night class for budding echanics, with three others enrolling at school.
Violet Tisam, of the department of national human resources development, says that the programme has been a life-changing experience for all especially one teenager.
“His goal in life was to learn how to read and write so he has enrolled at Tereora.”
The 16-week programme – which was funded by NZAID – offered compulsory subjects of Maori and culture, and components on fitness, literacy and computer use. The training was carried out by the NHRD’s trade training centre and hospitality centre, with literacy done at
Tereora College, and cultural studies conducted under Tauranga Vananga.
Tisam says the credits earned from the course will go towards the students’ record of learning which is New Zealand Qualifications Authority-accredited.
She adds that the encouraging thing about the students is that most of them want to continue their education and stay here in the Cook Islands.
At last Monday’s graduation, which was attended to by prime minister Jim Marurai, the students heard from a former SENZ student Ben Maxwell, Tony Hole, who turned up on behalf of Sam Pera Jnr, and Cook Islands Sports Academy’s Kevin Iro, who helped to draw up the programme for the young men.
Julie Affleck from the NZ high commission also spoke on behalf of NZAID.
A number of businesses have also supported the programme – these include Mareko, Budget Rentals, Polynesian Bike Hire, Avis and Turtles. - MM
Merchandise Launch This Saturday
Friday 8: 9Th May At Punanga nui Market
The World Youth Netball Championships’ merchandise is
being launched this coming Saturday at the Punanga Nui market starting at 9 o'clock.
Support our young netballers as they launch their campaign to challenge all comers from around the world from 11th to 20th of August.
T-shirts will be on sale as well as other merchandise. Plus there will be a fashion show with the girls wearing their merchandise.
Te Korero Maori dance group will be there to entertain and even the very young netballers from Avatiu.
If you want to be part of the support team - why not join up as a Volunteer to help with the netball competition and the Cook Islands other major sporting event of the year - the Pacific Mini Games? (Merchandise will also be on sale for the PMG).
Check out the registration tent and volunteer for both events.
Let's get behind these two great events and promote the Cook Islands as a friendly place to come to.
We have a competition and the questions are:
1. What are the dates that the WYNC will be held in Cook Islands?
2. What are the dates that the PMG will be held in Cook
Islands?
3. On the t-shirts, which logo is on the left and which logo is on the right?
4. What is the cost of a key ring?
Write your answers on a piece of paper and give it to the officials at the market. There will be two draws at 10am on the day and the winners will receive a t-shirt, a water bottle and a pen. T-shirts for men and ladies range from $35.
See you all at the Merchandise Launch for WYNC and PMG.
Youths aim further
Friday 8: Participants on the recently-completed Te Uki Tumanava programme are looking to further their studies.
Sixteen male students completed a basic automotive and carpentry course last Monday, and already most have signed up for a night class for budding mechanics, with three others enrolling at school.
Violet Tisam, of the department of national human resources development, says that the programme has been a life-changing experience for all especially one teenager.
“His goal in life was to learn how to read and write so he has enrolled at Tereora.”
The 16-week programme – which was funded by NZAID – offered compulsory subjects of Maori and culture, and components on fitness, literacy and computer use. The training was carried out by the NHRD’s trade training centre and hospitality centre, with literacy done at
Tereora College, and cultural studies conducted under Tauranga Vananga.
Tisam says the credits earned from the course will go towards the students’ record of learning which is New Zealand Qualifications Authority-accredited.
She adds that the encouraging thing about the students is that most of them want to continue their education and stay here in the Cook Islands.
At last Monday’s graduation, which was attended to by prime minister Jim Marurai, the students heard from a former SENZ student Ben Maxwell, Tony Hole, who turned up on behalf of Sam Pera Jnr, and Cook Islands Sports Academy’s Kevin Iro, who helped to draw up the programme for the young men.
Julie Affleck from the NZ high commission also spoke on behalf of NZAID.
A number of businesses have also supported the programme – these include Mareko, Budget Rentals, Polynesian Bike Hire, Avis and Turtles. - MM
Wild pigs fenced out
Friday 8: A complaint about wild pigs uprooting crops on Atiu has led to a project to fence off the Mapumai planting area.
Bill Evaroa of the Mapumai Growers Incorporated says two years ago the complaint was raised during a visit by the deputy prime minister Sir Terepai Maoate.
The DPM, he says, showed interest and 26 growers got together to form an incorporated society, and applied to the Outer Island Development Grant Fund for assistance.
“We applied for pig fencing materials – mesh, plain wire, tie wire and steel posts – to fence in the whole of the Mapumai taro-growing area,” says Evaroa.
The taro-growing area is estimated to be around five acres.
The materials are plastic-coated to stave off rusting, and the length of fence when finished will be around 1.8 kilometres. The height of the fence is 900mm and an extra wire can be attached at the top if needed.
The project received $22,000 from the fund, with the growers primarily putting in the land and labour as their input.- Moana Moeka’a
Power and emotion in senior dancing
Saturday 9: When Teariki Mateariki stepped out on the National Auditorium stage on Thursday night for the dancer of the year competition, he left no doubt that he was indeed the country’s top male dancer.
Representing the beautiful Ngaputoru islands of Atiu, Mitiaro and Mauke, the 2007 champion certainly did his people pride.
Not only did he have his performance of Cook Islands dance down to a fine art, he clearly loved performing it for the 500-plus crowd who cheered him on loudly.
In the women’s section, it was Auckland’s Veronica George who did the wowing with her flawless movements and stunning costume.
George was so excited and proud to have won the female dancer of the year title that she shed tears of joy.
Fellow Auckland dancer and 2008 male dancer of the year Tuteru Samson took out second place in the men’s section while Tuarii Yaewua of the northern group island of Pukapuka took out third place.
Ritia Moeara did her village of Avatiu/Nikao proud when she scooped up second place in the female section after a moving performance dedicated to the brave crew of Vaka Te Au O Tonga who voyaged to Samoa last year for the Festival of Pacific Arts.
Young Paula Turua took out third place.
The youngster put on a brave face and a lovely performance despite just being discharged from hospital a few days before the competition.
Every dancer received cash prizes for their performance but showcasing top Cook Islands dancing and enjoying the experience – that’s priceless. - Matariki Wilson
Joint agreement finalised between games companies
Saturday 9: The joint venture agreement between the companies organising the year’s two big sports events has been finalised.
Pacific Mini Games 2009 Ltd chief executive Mac Mokoroa says basically the agreement with World Youth Netball Championships 2009 Ltd allows the marketing and sponsorship people to formally use both events as a selling point.
While sponsors have been approached on the basis of both events being marketed as a joint venture, how much funding WYNC gets will depend on the amount of sponsorship secured, says Mokoroa.
But as to how much money will be needed to run the mini games is still in the hands of the country’s budget committee.
Mokoroa says the organising committee estimates that the mini games will cost around $9.5 million. And with $3.3 million already appropriated by government in the current financial year, Mokoroa is confident that most of the $6.2 million shortfall will be covered by the US$30 per day per diem payable by the 2000-plus athletes and officials, and post-games sale of bedding, cooking utensils and sports equipment.
“So we are looking to get $1.9 million more from government.”
The Bank of the Cook Islands sponsorship was announced in January and Mokoroa says there are a couple of things that need to be done before the deal is finalised.
As for concerns expressed by Pacific Games Council president Vidhya Lakhan in a follow-up letter to the games minister Wilkie Rasmussen, Mokoroa says questions should be directed to the new Cook Islands Sports & National Olympic Committee president Sir Geoffrey Henry. Sir Geoffrey could not be contacted yesterday.
In his letter of March 31, Lakhan said that the council was anxious to be satisfied that:
- there is evidence of the signed contracts between PMG2009 and the CEO and his organising committee staff;
- there is a finalised business plan, budget and funding agreement in place between PMG2009 and government;
- the host broadcast arrangements are finalised to a mutually agreeable conclusion for all parties to the signed MOU agreement;
- the outstanding contractual payments in the marketing division are resolved urgently so that the wider corporate programme is not further jeopardised;
- the (Sporting Pulse) matters are being proactively and positively managed by PMG2009 in its role as a contracted party to the council’s games management system provider; and
- the outstanding procurement plan for the essential sporting equipment, venue construction materials, and other necessary supplies has been achieved. - Moana Moeka’a
7 burglaries so far this week
Saturday 9: There have been seven burglaries reported to police since Monday, May 4.
Senior sergeant Inano Matapo says one tourist accommodation and a business in Nikao were targeted on Thursday night.
A DVD player, Kodak camera, binoculars and a silver dive watch were taken from the accommodation but it appears that nothing was missing from the Nikao business.
Private homes were hit by burglars in Arorangi (two), Atupa, Ngatangiia and Titikaveka. One of the Arorangi residences had a laptop, DVD player, a Nokia phone charger and alcohol taken, while the Titikaveka home had cash and bank cards stolen.
A gas bottle was stolen from outside an Avarua business, while another business reported a ladies bag missing from its premises.
An iPod and speakers were taken from one tourist accommodation this week – another Arorangi accommodation reported a mobile phone and cash missing.
Four motorbikes were reported stolen from Arorangi (two), Nikao and Tupapa on Thursday night/Friday morning. A black Yamaha Spark, registration number AAK 724, is still missing. This bike has a sticker of a skull with cross bones and a chequered flag with flames in the background, above the headlight.
Matapo warns members of the public to secure their homes and not leave their keys in the ignition of vehicles parked at home.
If anyone has any information on these incidents, then they are asked to contact the police on phone 22499.
Matapo adds that the pleasing aspect of the week from Monday up to Friday morning, is that no motor vehicle accidents were reported.
Meanwhile a trial date has been set for a man involved in a hit and run incident last month.
Rarotonga resident Hedley Radford will appear before a Justice of the Peace in the high court on May 20. - MM
Reproductive health plan in first stages
Monday 11: The Cook Islands will soon have a Reproductive Health Plan after last week’s four-day stakeholder workshop.
A national policy on reproductive health was developed late last year and setting the framework for a national plan is the next step in the process.
Director of community health services Dr Josephine Herman says the reproductive health strategy is to form a five-year plan.
“It’s about accountability and defining roles within services,” she says.
The workshop that finished on Friday had representatives from the Ministry of Health, Child Welfare, the National AIDS committee, Red Cross, and the National Youth Council.
Herman says to help with the plan, UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) consultant Dr Wame Baravilala has been working with the stakeholders.
She says the reproductive health plan, due out later this year, will address a range of issues.
One of the hot issues right now, teen pregnancy, is on the list of priorities for reproductive health.
Herman says understanding why it is happening and how to address the issue is important. She says it comes right back to strengthening families and placing more value on education to keep younger teens from becoming part of the teen pregnancy statistics.
The biggest issue identified recently though is the growing number of local women who have high risk pregnancies due to pre-existing conditions such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.
“There are more complications with these pregnancies.”
Herman says poor nutritional habits, smoking and alcohol consumption are affecting more and more pregnancies here.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility in society to help address this.”
Herman says the five-year plan for reproductive health will look at all aspects of health care, not only for women but also for men. - Helen Greig
Swine flu threat remains
The height of fear and uncertainty about the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) to the Cook Islands has passed somewhat as health officials move towards a long term approach to measures such as border screening.
Director of community health services Dr Josephine Herman says although globally cases continue to be transmitted from human to human and the disease is now present in more countries since its outbreak in Mexico, it has caused fewer and fewer deaths.
“But we are still vulnerable here because of air travel.”
“It continues to be transmitted globally. In New Zealand the good news is there are no new cases and within New Zealand there has been no transmission from person to person.
“Every year there is a flu season, but in the case of influenza A (formerly swine flu), this new flu strain is turning up in all these countries at the same time. It is a new virus and no one has immunity to it. The danger is that the young, old and ill will die if they get it.”
Herman says people must still prepare for the event of a full blown pandemic and the potential rapid spread of the virus across the globe.
“We have to prepare for it. For now it is simple things. Washing hands, coughing and sneezing into your elbow or clothing to stop the spread of germs and a good idea is to cut out kissing people.”
While airport entry screening began late last month, the preparation of the hospital has also been a priority for government. Herman says the hospital now has measures in place including a response to put masks on those who have coughs and are there to see a doctor. - HG
Immigration fee review still in limbo since 2003
Monday 11: The recommendations contained in the 2003 review of immigration policy are still relevant, despite nothing apparently being done about the report when it was presented to government.
Immigration director Kave Ringi says the report and recommendations are “a work in progress and will form part of the material to be considered during the revamping of the current immigration legislation and policy”.
“I don’t think we are in any position to predict what cabinet or government will agree to – therefore the recommen-dations remain matters for consideration.”
On the question of residence permits, the 2003 immigration advisory committee found that entry and residence permits have no “legislative distinction” other than the fact that an entry permit cannot be issued for a period exceeding two years, and the other must carry an expiry date, but no limit on time is specified.
“These [residence permits] must carry an expiry date but otherwise there is no limit to the time for which they can be granted. They can be granted with or without conditions – there is no criterion in the act for granting them,” says the 2003 report.
“The minister has an absolute discretion from time to time with the prior consent of the executive council to exempt any person, or class of persons from the provisions of the act.”
Last week, spouses of Cook Islanders complained that the $250 fee charged for residence permits was excessive, and that there had been no publicity about the hike in fees – up from $10 each year.
However, foreign affairs secretary Mike Mitchell clarified that the fee had basically been in place since 1977 but that the appropriate fees had not been charged by the immigration division.
Ringi says that the current legislation allows entry permits to be granted unconditionally or subject to conditions, and expire two years from the date of issue, or on a date specified in the permit, whichever occurs first.
In relation to residence permits, the legislation only states that residence permits may be granted and must have an expiry date and may be granted unconditionally or subject to conditions.
“Current practice is to grant an entry or residence permit
for up to 12 months. This is not inconsistent with the legislation.”
However, he adds that it is possible to grant a residence permit beyond 12 months under the current legislation.- Moana Moeka’a
Women in sport walk the talk
Monday 11: Leading from the front, Cook Islands Netball Association president Margharet Matenga (centre) and her daughters Luciana (right) and Kara are pictured on last year’s Oceania Women in Sport ‘Walk the Talk’.
The annual event will be held tomorrow and is dedicated to lifting the profile of the Pacific Mini Games and World Youth Netball Championships.
The PMG catch phrase ‘Sharing the moments’ is the theme of the day. The walk will start from the public relations centre in Avarua opposite the Banana Court at 5pm.
Athletes and managers of the 15 sports codes for the mini games are invited along with all members of the mini games organising committee. Schools are also invited to get the kids involved in this community based event.
The gold coin walk will start with a short speech by CISNOC president Sir Geoffrey Henry and firing of the start gun
by games minister Wilkie
Rasmussen.
Women in Sports t-shirts will be on sale at $5 plus there will be water and sausage sizzles for all after the walk. - MW
Raffle helps rebuild
Monday 11: Apii Te Uki Ou is fundraising through the ‘Building Remarkable Futures’ raffle this month so it can replace one of its school buildings.
The raffle gives ticket holders the chance to win a whopping $50,000 cash first prize plus 19 other amazing prizes all well over the value of $400.
Fundraising committee chair Cecile Marten says the old building which houses the school’s library and administration offices needs to be demolished.
Marten says the school has been told the building won’t survive cyclone winds and can’t simply be repaired.
She says at the end of the year during school holidays, the new building will be going up – but only if the raffle is a success.
Already over half of the tickets for the raffle have sold, but the school is appealing for the community to show their support and be in with the chance to win by buying a ticket.
“Every few years we conduct a major fundraising drive to assist with the capital development of our school. In 2007 we rebuilt and opened three brand new classrooms after the existing buildings had been condemned. This was at a cost of $229,798. This year we will initiate stage three of the school’s development plans. This involves demolishing the remaining classrooms and the construction of a new classroom, resource room and office,” says Marten.
She says last year government funded 56 percent of Apii Te Uki Ou’s operating costs, the remaining 44 percent funded by school fees, donations and through other fundraising efforts.
Apii Te Uki Ou has to cover all maintenance costs of buildings and this year it hopes to reach its fundraising target of $120,000 to cover the cost of replacing its school building.
You can get your ticket from the school office or at the Punanga Nui market every Saturday or call Cecile on 54107. -HG
Airport recruits and trains extra security officers
The Airport Authority took on another five recruits last week after they had completed a four-week security course.
In welcoming the new officers to the fold, chief of security Tukua Tangaroa said that the basic aviation security course was only the foundation for things that will follow after that.
In a job where officers are working in the early hours of the morning, Tangaroa said that the new recruits will need the support and understanding from family, partners and fellow officers. The authority’s chief executive Joe Ngamata challenged all officers to aim high in their new careers and said that the organisation would support those wanting to further their education.
“The only thing between you and the top of the ladder is the ladder – it’s up to you to climb that ladder.”
Upokoina ‘Chyna’ Bishop-Cuthers responded on behalf of the new recruits, saying that they are aware of the responsibilities, and they would endeavour to carry out their work to the best of their ability. - MM
Chamber not joining court action
Tuesday 1: The Chamber of Commerce has decided against joining the court action on the fuel farm scheme against government brought by Triad Pacific Petroleum.
However, last week the chamber wrote to the audit office to urge it to use its influence to ensure that the MFEM Act is applied to all government transactions and matters relating to public funds.
Triad’s submission to the high court last Friday said it understood the chamber is in the process of becoming joined to the court action as an interested party.
But chamber president Steve Anderson confirms the organisation will not be joining the court action.
The chamber is however still very concerned about government’s position that it is not bound by the MFEM Act in certain contracts entered into in the fuel farm scheme.
“The chamber of commerce has a considerable interest in the application of the MFEM Act on government and any contracts it may enter into,” says Anderson.
The audit office has been taking more than a passing interest in the case, especially since it could not get MFEM to comply with its own Public Expenditure Review Committee and Audit Act requirement for disclosure of documents in the PERCA review of the fuel farm scheme earlier this year.
A large part of the Triad case is the question of whether government officials have acted in accordance with the MFEM Act 1996 and other Cook Islands laws in pursuing the fuel farm scheme. Triad claims finance minister Sir Terepai Maoate, financial secretary Sholan Ivaiti, MFEM, and CIIC all breached the MFEM Act. The legal action asks the high court to issue declarations confirming breaches of various laws and orders to compel the respondents to comply with the acts.
In January the chamber welcomed a judgment in the case saying, “The Chamber of Commerce believes that it is imperative that government ministries and public servants abide by the MFEM Act, the PERCA Act, public administrative law, and the basic principles of transparent and accountable governance.” - Helen Greig
Stocktake of gender mainstreaming capacity
Tuesday 1: A regional gender mainstreaming capacity stocktake was officially launched this week at The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) headquarters in Noumea.
This effort to measure the extent to which Pacific governments are able to incorporate gender perspectives and analysis at all levels of government in the Pacific region was launched at the opening of a four-day preparatory stocktake workshop for consultants that ended last week. The stocktake will be rolled out in all 22 SPC member countries over the next three years. The purpose of gender mainstreaming is to promote good governance and sustainable development through the integration of gender analysis at all levels of government. This entails the consideration and inclusion of gender perspectives in all government policy-making, programming and budgeting to ensure that a clear picture exists of the differing needs, experiences and perspectives of women and men. It also involves properly and equally addressing those differences, and supporting women in particular in areas where they have traditionally been marginalised.
“Women and men make up roughly half the population of a country. When they are given equal opportunities to contribute to their communities and societies at all levels, everyone benefits.
By investing in both women and men, a country is not only maximising its resources, it is also ensuring stronger, healthier and more economically secure societies,” says SPC’s Gender Equality Adviser Treva Braun. The project will be carried out in phases.
The first phase involves six countries, including the Cook Islands. - SPC
Only one accident reported
Tuesday 1: Police are impressed that only one motor vehicle accident was reported in the week from Monday.
A 42-year-old man fell off his motorcycle on Saturday and was discovered lying face down in Harley Street near Nikao intersection.
The disqualified driver was taken to hospital for treatment and refused to be tested for alcohol. An investigation is still continuing.
In other police matters, there were 13 burglaries reported throughout the island with four occurring in Arorangi.
Among the items stolen from residential properties included DVD players, a laptop, a Nokia phone charger, alcohol and jewellery.
Police arrested a 16-year-old on Friday after being found inside the Hideaway Bar. During questioning he admitted to entering the building by forcing the sliding door open. Another person was involved and police are still investigating.
Clothes and beer were taken from a room at Reefcomber Sunset Motel between late Saturday night and early Sunday morning. There were no signs of forced entry and the complainant recovered his suitcase and some of his clothes on the beach.
Six thefts were reported including a gas bottle from Salon de Hermie’s and an iPod with speakers from Edgewater Resort and Spa last Monday.
A bag left underneath a table at the Staircase Restaurant and Bar was stolen on Tuesday night while the owner was dancing. Items inside the bag included makeup, money, a motorcycle side mirror and bike silencer.
Four unlawful takings were reported with Yamaha motorcycles being targeted. Those taken are a black Spark registration number AAK724, a Yamaha Cygnux AAN339 and two others, registration numbers AAK739 and AAM694.
Police continue to urge people not to leave keys in the ignition even for a short time. A 15-year-old apprehended for underage driving on Saturday night. Police stopped the teenager on the main road of Avarua in front of Mana Court. - DK
Cellphones affected
Tuesday 1: Mobile services were affected in the Arorangi area for a short while yesterday.
Telecom Cook Islands manager marketing & sales Mark Boyd said yesterday that work was carried out on the GSM antenna in Ruaau to realign the antennae and improve coverage.
The site was down for approximately one hour.
Mobile services were affected from Blackrock to the SDA Church in Arorangi from around 1pm to 2pm.
All other services were unaffected by the maintenance. - TCI/MM
Mangaia identify environment issues
By now, environmental study groups on Mangaia would have identified environmental issues in their backyard and putting together solutions to remedy these.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) environmental education officer Sylvia George visited Mangaia recently to deliver the programme to the community there.
George says even though only 10 people took part, there was great team work within the group and the discussions were of high standard.
She says the hope is that through the knowledge and understanding the group learned through the environmental education training will be used effectively in their study groups which in turn will benefit the community and environment.
Matariki Wilson
Challenge focuses on second-hand smoke
Tuesday 1: The biennial Smokefree Challenge will be held at the National Auditorium on May 28.
This year’s theme is ‘Drug Free’ which is focused on protecting children from second hand smoking.
The Tobacco Control Working Group event last took place in 2006 and 2007 and is now held every two years.
Seven schools are taking part in the performance night with the option to put on drama or musical items.
Public Health’s Maina Tairi, one of the organisers, says special guest artists include the Titikaveka youth and the Avarua AOG youth. Tangata Pasifika presenter Nikki Siulepa and Rarotonga’s own G-Dub (George Williams) will MC the challenge.
The challenge will begin at 7pm on the night with tickets costing $7 for adults, $2 for students. Those under six will have free entry.
Tickets can be purchased from shops around the island from today including Wigmore’s Superstore, Rite Price, Runway Store, Oo’a Petrol Station, JMC Store, 611 Muri, and Super Brown.
This year the event leads up to World No Tobacco Day on May 31 and the coming into force of new laws under the Tobacco Control Act on June 1.
World No Tobacco Day will focus on Tobacco health warnings this year. According to the World Health Organization more than five million people worldwide die from the effects of tobacco every year – more than from HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. This year’s theme focuses on pictorial health warnings on tobacco products as an effective way of reducing tobacco use.
WHO says tobacco is the only legal consumer product that kills when used exactly as the manufacturer intends.
“Effective health warnings, especially those that include pictures, have been proven to motivate users to quit and to reduce the appeal of tobacco for those who are not yet addicted. Despite this fact, 9 out of 10 people live in countries that do not require warnings with pictures on tobacco packages,” says WHO.- Helen Greig
Fiji barred from PALM 5
Tuesday 1: Radio NZ reported yesterday that the Japanese government has not invited Fiji representatives to its summit with Forum island nations from May 22-23 in Hokkaido.
A Japanese government source says Tokyo has decided not to invite the Fiji interim Prime Minister, Frank Bainimarama, or other senior members of the regime to its summit.
The Kyodo World News Service reports Japan made the decision due to the increasingly dictatorial nature of the unelected military regime and to the international community’s response to the situation.
Japan has hosted a summit called Pacific Alliance Leaders’ Meeting (PALM) with the Forum every three years since 1997.
Forum chairman, Niue’s Toke Talagi, is to jointly chair the PALM 5 meeting with the Japanese prime minister, Taro Aso.
Cook Islands prime minister Jim Marurai is expected to attend the summit, along with foreign affairs Pacific division director Carl Hunter.- Helen Greig
General public still using disabled parking spaces
Wednesday 13: The Cook Islands National Disability Council is appealing to the public to be aware of and respect the two disabled parking spaces outside Foodland supermarket.
The council repainted the faded parking spots yesterday in an attempt to make the public more aware of the fact these are reserved for disabled parking only.
There is still a sign warning people about the parking spots which were created three years ago, but this hasn’t put many off abusing them says the council’s technical officer Catherine Temu.
So out came the bright yellow road paint this week to get the much faded markings back in place.
Temu says these are usually painted once a year by the ministry of works (infrastructure and planning) but it had to be done sooner rather than later.
She says the council has already established one disabled parking spot at Oasis and at CITC Supermarket and is working with other large companies like the banks to get more spaces.
Disabled parking permits are available at the Internal Affairs office in Tupapa for $10.
Temu says many people rely on the parking spaces so they can still get into town and get things done despite their disabilities. She says some local businesses are also moving towards making their premises accessible by wheelchair. - HG
Islands want shipping services strengthened
Wednesday 13: Small Island States (SIS) in the Pacific islands region want shipping services strengthened to secure much needed regular services to countries in the group.
A meeting of ministers for maritime transport in SIS was held in Tonga yesterday mainly to deliberate on the progress made by SPC and the Pacific Islands Forum secretariat (PIFS) in improving shipping services to SIS aimed at improving regularity of services and reducing freight costs.
The SIS group at the meeting included Kiribati, Tuvalu, and Nauru, Niue, Marshall Islands, Cook Islands, Palau and Wallis & Futuna and French Polynesia.
Shipping minister Tangata Vavia was at the meeting.
The meeting considered the need for various solutions to improve SIS shipping.
Previous SPC Regional Maritime Programme (RMP) reports have recommended a purpose-built vessel donor supplied ship, hub ports and regional shipping commissions to regulate shipping services in different sub-regions of the Pacific.
Shipping services are critically important to SIS given the high dependency on imports.
- Secretariat of the
PPacific Community
Maukeans discuss the environment with minister
Wednesday 13: Environment minister Ngamau Munokoa and a team from the National Environment Services led by director Vaitoti Tupa visited Mauke for consultations on the proposed Environment Mauke Regulations 2009.
At last week’s meetings, the team received good feedback from the villagers in Kimiangatau and Oiretumu.
The three hour meeting at Oiretumu on Tuesday May 5 flew by as the community -- many passionate to preserve their way of life and largely unspoiled paradise -- participated in lively and informative discussion, which at times lead to heated debates.
The outcome of decisions on the legal harvesting size of coconut crabs and crayfish was debatable, with a number not being happy with the final measurement decisions that allow the eating of animals with potentially many reproductive years still ahead of them. Those with eggs are never to be taken, but some fear that it is possible those between egg carrying times may end up in a pot.
Comments were made that the Maukeans will eat their own heritage out of existence, with another saying that this is about conservation, not annihilation.
Concerns were expressed about the tough raui rules meaning that tourists and even school classes are unable to visit sites for educational purposes.
Also of concern is the ruling that pigs must be kept at least 50 metres from any dwelling, meaning those on quarter acre house sites, with no other land options, will be unable to keep domestic pigs.
It was pointed out that this regulation comes from the health ministry and is already law.
Recommended additions were plans for the control of the ever-increasing cat population which poses a threat to native birds, local chickens, and crabs.
Rat eradication plans were requested, as rats seem to be avoiding the wild cats and continue to ruin planting areas. It is estimated that up to 90 percent of coconut trees – of which the coconuts are still much needed for feeding animals, making oil and home consumption – are affected by rats.
The majority of those present at the Oiretumu meeting were happy for legislation to control sand removal, protect turtles, historical sites and trees, with additions being made to the list of protected sites.
Looking to the future, discussions were also held on the possibility of not only the ban of non-biodegradable plastic bags, but other plastics such as chicken wrappers, disposable plates and cups. Being careful not to purchase electronic gear that ends up as e-waste was also mentioned, as Mauke doesn’t want to end up with the mountain of e-waste and whiteware causing headaches in Rarotonga. - June Hosking in Mauke
Research group adopts new constitution
Wednesday 13: The Cook Islands Research Association has adopted a new constitution following its
annual general meeting last week.
And Angie Tuara was unanimously voted in as head of the ‘new’ organisation, after looking after CIRA since the end of 2007.
“We know it’s going to be another exciting year,” said Tuara after being elected as president.
CIRA helped with organising the economic summit in early February as well as its annual conference at the same time.
Whether a mini-conference will be staged later on in the year should be decided at the executive’s first meeting on June 10.
Other executives voted in at the AGM were Papa Ron Crocombe and Papa Ina Teiotu (vice presidents), Elizabeth Ponga (secretary), Moana Moeka’a (assistant secretary), Anna Koteka (treasurer), Marjorie Crocombe (assistant treasurer).
With ties having being established with the University of
the South Pacific, Tauranga Vananga (ministry of cultural development), and the education ministry, it was decided that all three agencies be
represented in the executive committee. - MM
Mitiaro Day a big success
Wednesday 13: Minister Ngamau Munokoa (at right) helps out with serving food at the Nukuroa Day fundraiser at Te Atukura grounds last Friday. Despite the rain in the morning, it didn’t stop the hordes of people from queuing up for plates of food during the day. Around $29,000 was raised from Te Atukura on the day, derived mainly from food sales and donations. A radiothon was also held in the afternoon with around $10,560 pledged by the day’s end. The money raised will go towards renovating the two community meeting houses on Mitiaro. 09050873
Met service, disaster management heads meet
Wednesday 13: Pacific directors of meteorological services and disaster management will meet this week to discuss challenges and opportunities for strengthening of end-to-end early warning systems for Pacific Island countries.
Cook Islands representatives will be among the 17 nations to attend the meeting in Fiji which includes the United States, New Zealand and Australia.
This meeting provides a forum, for only the second time in 10 years, for meteorological services directors and disaster managers to exchange views on common issues and to discuss ways and means to enhance cooperation for increased public safety. It is also the first time that SPREP and SOPAC have combined efforts to make this meeting happen.
SOPAC community risk programme manager, Mosese Sikivou says the meeting offers opportunity to enhance collaboration between meteorological services directors and disaster managers.
“The meeting will allow for exchange on a range of issues relevant to improving disaster risk management and in particular to improve the cooperation for enhanced delivery of early warnings to communities most exposed to a range of hazards.”
Sikivou says natural disasters are common to Pacific Island countries and have the potential to regularly cause significant drain in governments’ annual budget.
“What we are looking for is an enhancement of the climate change programme that SPREP manages for the region, and identifying the cross cutting climate change and disaster risk management issues is key to ensuring that we maximise our combined efforts in these two important work areas for the region. ” - Helen Greig
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