Home Blog Page 1271

Lack of quorum slows bills

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
Parliament

BY BARNABAS MANEBONA

LOW turnout of members of parliament (MPs) is reportedly slowing down the progress of bills before parliament.

It is reported that due to lack of quorum, the much anticipated Anti-Corruption Bill (ACB) 2017 is slowly progressing in parliament.

The Anti-Corruption Bill 2017 is currently before the House and is up to the Committee Stage where it is dealt with clause by clause.

However, shown on the two previous sittings recently on the ACB, Parliament records of day-one and day-two, since Monday this week, show that eight MPs were absent on the first while 13 on the second.

Public are eager for the bills to be passed and are urging the members of parliament to show commitment and ‘be more active in their attendance of sittings’.

Below are attendance records for Monday’s (July 23) and Tuesday’s (July 24) parliament sitting.

Whose fault?

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
National Parliament of Solomon Islands

Officials & consultants blamed for doctoring MPs’ medical travel costs

 

By Alfred Sasako

IT has emerged that Government officials are responsible for preparing hefty medical and travel costs for Members of Parliament seeking treatment in Australia, often without the knowledge of MPs, a Member of Parliament told Island Sun on Tuesday.

The MP who wishes to remain unnamed was reacting to revelation published by Island Sun newspaper last week that taxpayers forked out up to $500,000 each time an MP travels overseas for medical treatment.

The practice continued until earlier this year when the Office of the Prime Minister intervened by refusing to approve such a huge bill.

At one point the cost of travel for an MP had to be slashed to $290,000 but only after the Office of the Prime Minister had sent it back twice to the Caucus Office.

“Your report is all true,” the MP said.

“But, as we have now found out, the officials, particularly the Consultants who work in the Caucus Office, often prepare travel plans without our knowledge. They never show us the final cost nor do they show us how much money they get from Treasury for our travel.

“We thought whatever they gave us to sign was final. Now we know better. No wonder some now own more vehicles than MPs,” the MP said.

“As a matter of fact cost for medical check-up is pretty cheap, unless you undergo an operation. The cost then would be around AUD10,000, but for normal check up the cost is around AUD3,000,” the MP said.

Sources for the initial report told Island Sun that all travels for MPs seeking medical check-up in Australia are often prepared by the Caucus Office and paid for by the Office of the Prime Minister.

“Often they never show referrals from the National Referral Hospital or confirmation of appointments with doctors in Australia for these check-ups,” the sources told Island Sun.

According to the Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations (PER) 2018, MPs seeking medical treatment outside Solomon Islands must first obtain a referral by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. MPs are responsible for paying the cost of their accommodation during the duration of their stay overseas.

PER 63 says, “When a Member is sent out of the country for medical examination or treatment under Regulation 60 he or she shall be eligible for:

Passages by air at Government expenses at first class rate;

Essential examination and treatment at Government expense as arranged whenever possible by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in advance, including operation charges and the fees of doctors, anaesthetists or specialists.

PER 64 says, “Where charges for accommodation are incurred, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services will meet such charges which will subsequently be recovered from the Member.

“The Member will thereafter be required to reimburse the charges. If necessary, an advance of salary may be authorized under Part IV of these Regulations for such amounts and over such period as the Minister of Finance may decide. When the Minister of Finance is of the opinion that recovery of such costs either wholly or in part would result in hardship, he shall, with the concurrence of the Prime Minister, decide what proportion of the costs should be borne by the Member.

The PER also made it clear that MPs can only claim reimbursement for costs incurred in obtaining the services of a private practitioner with prior approval by the appropriate specialist of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

PER 67 says, “Unless referred by or with the approval of the appropriate specialist of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, a Member or his or her legal spouse or child who is medically examined by or receives medical treatment from a medical practitioner in private practice shall not be eligible to claim reimbursement of any expenses. No benefit conferred by this Part shall be available to a Member or his or her family whilst they remain under the professional care of a private practitioner.”

It is not clear whether MPs who are frequenting Sydney for their medical check-up are reimbursing the government for their accommodation costs, which the government has always paid up front.

Football is more that just playing

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
Hendrix Maneoru, Abraham Iniga Junior and with Solomon Maneoru and Siosi Tafoa Junior before their departure to Russia last month. Picture by SIFF Media.

BY ROMULUS HUTA

FOOTBALL is not only about merely kicking the ball as there is so much more attached to it.

This was how young Abraham Iniga and Hendrix Maneoru interpreted upon their return after attending the 2018 Gazprom International Children’s Social Programme, Football For Friendship (F4F) in Moscow, Russia last month.

The programme, now in its sixth edition, was attended by 1500 children and was covered by over 300 international media outlets to spread the values embodied by the beautiful game to the world.

Hendrix Maneoru carrying out an interview of a fellow participant of the F4F in Moscow, Russia.

Iniga and Maneoru were the Solomon Islands’ two young reps at the event and where they were accompanied by two male adults namely Junior Siosi and Solomon Maneoru.

During the programme, Iniga participated as a soccer player while Maneoru participated as a young journalist.

Speaking about their reflections after the programme, the duo told the F4F media that football is more than just playing.

Iniga said: “I started playing football when I was five. My dad is a national player for our country and with his help and encouragement, I dream that one day, I can follow my father’s footsteps. Football is about more than playing – it brings friendship, unity and peace. In football, there are no differences and titles, we are one.

Maneoru said: “I am pleased to be nominated for the Football for Friendship programme and to support the values of friendship, equality, fairness, health, peace, devotion, victory, traditions and honour. I believe that everyone should be given an equal chance and that people should be treated fairly so we can all live together in peace and harmony and make the world a better place.”

Abraham Iniga Junior, our flag bearer at last night’s world cup opening ceremony.

F4F Global Director, Vladimir Serov,said: “In one team, playing together there are kids of different nationalities, different genders, different physical abilities.

“I believe together we will be able to help them, our young participants, to find new friends from different countries, to learn how to play together, how to live together … and I believe they will show people what the world could be without discrimination, without racism, war and violence.”

Emanuel Saakai, founder and Director of Football at Lengo Football Academy has heaped praise on what was a once in a lifetime opportunity for many young participants.

“What an incredible life changing experience for a whole generation of bright kids. Now they can take the F4F message to their peers in their home countries and spread the message of peace and equality so that they can grow together through the magic of football.”

The seventh instalment of the F4F programme will be held in 2019 with details soon to be announced.

Hendrix Maneoru, Abraham Iniga Junior and with Solomon Maneoru and Siosi Tafoa Junior before their departure to Russia last month. Picture by SIFF Media.

PM visits swimming facility in Lake Tegano

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
PM Hou takes a tour around the swimming facility July this year.

PRIME Minister Rick Houenipwela has visited a swimming project and accommodation facility at Lake Tegano in Rennell Island, Rennell/Bellona province.

Prime Minister Houenipwela and the Member of Parliament for Renbel province Dr Tautai Agikimu’a Kaitu’u visited the sports swimming project at Kiakoe, located at the lake.

The swimming project is built by Lence Tango an MPA of the Renbel provincial government.

The swimming area with the accomodation and changing rooms at one end.

The project when completed is aimed at providing a swimming facility and accommodation where our local swimmers can be accommodated and trained ahead of the Pacific Games in 2023.

Mr Tango is also planning to build bungalows to increase accommodation at the facility to also target tourism opportunities.

Houenipwela was impressed with the idea and expressed his support to local initiatives as such that are aimed at developing our sports men and women in the country.

PM Hou takes a tour around the swimming facility.

“This is a great initiative and one that would greatly benefit our athletes if completed and utilized as the location is also isolated which I believe will help our athletes to focus in training without any outside disturbance,” he said.

The project is currently still under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

The Prime Minister and his delegation also spent a night at Lake Tegano, travelled the lake and spent time with the people.

He was also particularly impressed with the tourism and investment opportunities Lake Tegano has to offer for the people of Rennell Island.

A view overlooking the swimming facility and lake Tegano.
One side of thje walkway around the swimming area.
The accomodation and changing rooms at the proposed swimming facility still under construction..
Mr Tango presenting gifts to the Hon PM.. Photo by OPMC Press

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

–OPMC PRESS

Rennell Bellona celebrates Silver Jubilee

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
Prime Minister Rick Houenipuela (L) and Premier-for-Rennell-Bellona Province, Collin Singimoana (R) stood in salutation to the national anthem played by the RSIPF Brass Band, at Tingoa
Prime Minister Rick Houenipuela (L) and Premier-for-Rennell-Bellona Province, Collin Singimoana (R) stood in salutation to the national anthem played by the RSIPF Brass Band, at Tingoa

Rennell and Bellona Province marked its Silver Jubilee, 25th Second Appointed Day Anniversary celebration on July 20, 2018 at Tingoa, graced by the attendance of its Chief Guest of Honour, Prime Minister Rick Houenipuela. Theme for the anniversary was ‘Unity in Diversity for a Strong Economic Development’.

In his key note address Prime Minister Hou congratulated and acknowledged the government and the people of Rennell and Bellona on their silver jubilee and commitment in ensuring services are delivered at the Provincial level on behalf of the National Government. The Prime Minister cited the Provincial Governance Strengthening Programme (PGSP) with its Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) as one of the National Government’s flagship projects that is providing infrastructure development services that is notable across various sectors in the Provinces. “We will continue to maintain this commitment to ensure our people receive the benefits and services that are required” assured the Prime Minister. It is understood 2018 PCDF Assessment has been completed with a formal report to be released soon and funds to be disbursed to the Provinces in the next couple of months.

Speaking during the occasion Premier for the Province, Hon Collin Singimoana (MPA), acknowledged the presence of the Hon. Prime Minister and members of his entourage, the Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Kaitu Tautai Angikimua, who is also the MP for Rennell Bellona Constituency and all other distinguished invited guests for their attendance at the province’s silver jubilee celebration.

Premier Singimoana acknowledged past governments of Rennell and Bellona Province, and National Governments for their leadership and wisdom, and dedication and humility in recognising and taking the remote Province to what it is today; a small Province with equal legal status like its sister and bigger Provinces. Premier Singamoana stated that since the according of Rennell and Bellona Province’s Second Appointed Day 25 years ago, the Province continues to have opportunities and faces challenges.

One of the challenges is the current National Government system we have which he stated; “Not only did our National Government give Rennell and Bellona that equal recognition in law as the bigger Provinces, but that recognition should by right and under our government system should have also automatically provided Rennell and Bellona with equal opportunities and equal considerations when it comes to allocation and distribution of the country’s resources and opportunities to our people and respective communities throughout Solomon Islands”.

Premier Singimoana stated that another challenge the Province faces relates to all other relevant arrays of issues pertaining to the bauxite mining on West Rennell and the status of the world heritage program in East Rennell which hosts the largest enclosed fresh water lake in Asia Pacific region. He stated that of paramount concern to his government and the Province is how West Rennell land was alienated through acquisition a process that has now become a source of complex land disputes that seemingly will remain so into the future.

Singimoana calls on the National Government, Landowners, and Rennell and Bellona Provincial Government to undertake serious structured consultations to review the entire situation in order to correct the anomalies. He stated that addressing these array of issues at this point in time would prevent further emergence of serious social and economic risks to the people of not only West Rennell but the entire Province and Solomon Islands as a country.

Premier Singimoana stated that the World Heritage Programme on East Rennell is a challenging and imperative programme as there are issues affecting the Province. He stated that in spite of the fruitful discussions with the National Government being the third party to the convention on declaration of Lake Tengano on East Rennell as a World Heritage Site, the East Rennell Local Committee and the Provincial Executive over the issues, it was sad the proposals to address the issues were never featured in the National Government’s budget last year.

The Rennell and Bellona Premier stated that despite the complications the Province is facing with the Lake Tengano World Heritage Site, the Provincial Government will continue to press on to ensure the potential of East Rennell in tourism will become a reality for the local people, Province and the country at large.

Premier Singimoana thanked the National Government for the first tranche of assistance towards preparatory work for the Solomon Games which will be held in the Province and appeals to the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure additional funds for the games are available in time before the games start on the 20th November.

In his brief remarks during the occasion, MP for Rennell and Bellona, Hon. Kaitu Tautai Angikimua stated that he sees the Second Appointed Day celebration as best opportunity to reflect on political journey as a Province and to take stock on the progress and what has been achieved as a Province, as a society and as a people. He stated that the Second Appointed Day must not be demeaned to lose its value nor its significance for the day stands unchanging as a beacon on political success and achievement which is owed to the good people and past leaders of a Province whom he thinks had stood tall as champions the causes to be a Province despite all odds.

MP Tautai iterated that roads in the Province such as East Rennell were built forty years ago and are in dire need for rehabilitation. He stated that Tingoa and Anua airstrips also need upgrading to cater for the Dash 8 in order to boost tourism. The MP calls on people from all walks of life in Rennell and Bellona especially the leaders, chiefs, and elders to put aside their differences and put their heads together to bring Rennell and Bellona to a better stage.

As part of the Silver Jubilee, zones in the Province (East Rennell, Central Rennell, West Rennell and Bellona) took to the playing grounds to compete in the sports of rugby and netball. Sports Coordinator for the Province Mr Lungu Kilooko said the games were also ‘RenBel Ready Games’ preparatory for the Solomon Games. Central Zone won rugby’s first prize of $4,000 while Western End Zone won netball’s first prize of $3,000.

Anglican diocese of Malaita ordains new priest

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
Fr. Derrick reading the promises before the diocesan Bishop of Malaita and before all clergies.

BY GEORGE MANFORD

AUKI

A new priest has been ordained last Sunday at Fiu cathedral where he has been welcomed into the priesthood ministry in the Anglican diocese of Malaita.

He is Fr Derrick Taka from Fiu and is a former surveyor Lands officer and the former Solomon Islands national football player in the late 90s and also the former Malaita Football president from 2010 to 2012.

From involving in football much of his time he decided to turn his journey to join the priesthood ministry in the church under the Anglican diocese of Malaita.

The first greetings of peace by the newly ordained priest Fr. Derrick Taka

During his ordination last Sunday, chiefs, community leaders, elders and relatives from Gwaiuka tribe where he belongs gathered in numbers to witness the ordination.

An address during the ordination service last Sunday senior priest of Keava region Fr Molynuex Nofa said to be a priest in the church it is a great task to serve God and his people in this ministry.

“We will face challenges, ups and downs in life but put God in front of all our work as a shepherd that leads the sheep to graze on green pastures.

Fr. Derrick reading the promises before the diocesan Bishop of Malaita and before all clergies.

“It is the time to witness for Christ in this entire world.

“As you ordained today in this priesthood ministry, you are to establish God’s kingdom here on earth and be loyal in your work to serve God’s people.

“We must serve God with love and compassion and as a leader purposely to serve God.

“As we ordained in this ministry we must be a prayerful person with an obedient heart as we take up this responsibility in the church.

“Our priority is leadership, in churches and even in our government where we must source our leadership in God before we will be prosper in life or in any responsibility we take.”

The ordination service took place at the Fiu Cathedral in Fiu village and the newly ordained priest was ordained by the Anglican Diocesan Bishop of Malaita province, Right Reverend Bishop Sahu assisted by the Assistant Bishop, Bishop Rickson Maomaoru.

Assistant Bishop of Malaita Anglican diocese (left) Bishop Rickson Maomaoru Fr. Derrick Taka (centre), Diocesan bishop of Malaita Bishop Sam Sahu right) and all clegies that attended the ordination last Sunday.
Fr. Derrick Taka and his family infront of the Fiu cathedral church last Sunday.

Social accountability project launched by Oxfam and partners

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0

BY MAVIS NISHIMURA PODOKOLO

A project that aims to improve social accountability in the Solomon Islands was launched in Honiara by Oxfam Solomon Islands and the Solomon Islands Social Accountability Coalition (SISAC).

The project – funded by European Union – hopes to strengthen the capacity of the coalition (SISAC) and other Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) over the next three years to promote inclusive development and enhance democratic governance and accountability among government and civil society institutions in the country.

The “Improving Social Accountability in the Solomon Islands” is a three-year long project in the duration from April 2018 to March 2019.

Addressing the launching occasion Simon Uesikoke, the Social Accountability Project Manager, said its overall objective is to promote inclusive development and enhance democratic governance and accountability among government and civil institutions in Solomon Islands.

He said as well as with a precise objective of strengthening the capacity of Solomon Islands Social Accountability Coalition (SISAC) and other Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to use their networks to effectively engages citizens.

“The aim of this project is to enable CSO and citizens to strategically influence national development, public funds and processes that enables sustainable growth with regrades to transparency, accountability and representation and voice,” Uesikoke said.

He said the key invention strategies of this project including

  • Strengthening of CSO’s capacity in development and application of participatory social accountability tools, such as community score cards, public expenditure tracking and social audit.

 

  • Dissemination of information about the Solomon Islands and budget development processes, public expenditure and roles and responsibilities of services providers and government.
  • Promoting CSO and citizen’s engagement in provincial and national budget development processes.
  • Undertaking national and community level trails of social accountability tools and approaches.
  • Holding public forums, discussions to raise public awareness and promote citizen’s engagement to address issues of public concerns.
  • Research and evidence based campaign to enhance greater accountability and transparency at all levels.

Uesikoke adds in achieving the above objectives the Solomon Islands Social Accountability Coalition (SISAC) wishes to collaborate with communities, CSO and government institutions.

On the same matter Doreen Fernando, Acting Country Director of Oxfam in Solomon Islands encouraged all Civil Society Organisations and the government to work collaboratively in terms of supporting this initiative.

Members of SISAC are; Transparency Solomon Islands, Development Services Exchange, Solomon Islands Development Trust, Young Women’s Parliamentary Group, Forum Solomon Islands International, National Scouts Association, National Youth Congress, Honiara Youth Council and Oxfam in Solomon Islands.

Moreover, it was after the launching yesterday they held an inception workshop of improving Social accountability in Solomon Islands and it will be concluded today.

The workshop mainly focuses to look through the project itself and its workplace and amending of any changes where needed.

Youth leadership retreat at Ginger Beach

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
Group photo of the Officials and young leaders attending the Youth Leadership Retreat at Ginger Beach Retreat.

BY LYNTON AARON FILIA

YOUNG people in Honiara City have convened at the Ginger Beach for a five-day youth leadership retreat which was officially opened on Monday.

The event was officially opened by Deputy Police Commissioner Mr Gabriel Manelusi, also gathering the Head of Division for Youth, Sports and Women Division for HCC, RSIPF representatives and the Team Leader for the Solomon Islands Police Support Programme (SIPSP) and young leaders.

The young leaders comprise of 15 participants and 15 youth facilitators.

Young facilitators for the five-day event.

There will be different speakers on topics on leadership, mental health, healthy lifestyles, pathway to education, employment and entrepreneurship and mentoring.

They include Special Secretary to the Prime Minister- Dr Jimmy Rogers, Deputy Commissioner to RSIPF- Junita Matanga, Sports icon Jennly Wini, local business woman Julie Haro and the Director for the NTU Clement Tito.

Manelusi said country is half way towards its first decade of young leaders.

Manelusi said the retreat is an opportunity for young leaders to enhance leadership skills to become good leaders and set example for next generation.

“I encourage you to commit yourself to this programme and make your unique contribution to your community,” Manelusi.

RSIPF Deputy Commissioner Mr Gabriel Manelusia giving the keynote address.

He said gaining such knowledge and skills will support leadership style in the community to involve young people in positive activities rather than negative ones which will help reduce issues within the city.

HCC’s Head of Division for Youth Sports and Women Division Mr Roland GK Pauku said HCC is excited from its network to involve in a worthy event for young people to realise their leadership potential.

Pauku said such network is a dream come true for its division to see its partnership grow and expand to the RSIPF and the Solomon Islands Police Support Programme of the New Zealand Government.

HOD for Youth, Sports and Women Division Mr Roland GK Pauku giving his
remarks during the opening of the Youth Leadership Retreat at the Ginger Beach.

He thanked the RSIPF and Solomon Islands Police Support Programme for recognizing their youth network which resulted in bringing young people together and seen them thrive.

Meanwhile, the event is funded and supported by the New Zealand Government through a Solomon Islands Police Support Programme in partnership with RSIPF, HCC-Youth Division and Honiara Youth Council.

Group photo of the Officials and young leaders attending the Youth Leadership Retreat at Ginger Beach Retreat.

MDPAC farewells EU Ambassador to SI and Vanuatu

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0
EU farewell

BY BARNABAS MANEBONA

EUROPEAN Union (EU) Ambassador to Solomon Islands and Vanuatu His Excellency Leonidas Tezapsidis was farewelled on Monday at the Mendana Hotel.

Hosting a luncheon for him was the Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination (MDPAC).

MDPAC’s Minister Jeremiah Manele during his farewell speech reminded ministers and everyone attending that they are farewelling one of the most dynamic diplomats and development partners that the government and the country has been privileged to have worked and associated with.

“You know how at all times you have given your best to the people of Solomon Islands,” said Manele to His Excellency Leonidas Tezapsidis.

“Your services, dedication and commitment make us feel we cannot thank you enough.

“We look forward to working closely with your successor under the Fiji mission although you will not be here physically with your Office presence, but we hope that we will utilise your services at the Fiji Office much more effectively as we hope to improve on that as a government.”

Tezapsidis came to Solomon Islands during 2014.

He has played a great deal in bringing to new heights the excellent relations and the increase of assistance that Solomon Islands has enjoyed according Manele.

“Among many notable achievements made by Ambassador Leonidas during his term with us and one of the most significant if I may mention was the political dialogue in 2016,” said MDPAC’s Minister.

He said this includes furthering good relations with the EU, deciding of the 11th National Indicative Programme to Solomon Islands in 2015, the constant encouragement and guidance to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade as well as the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources in addressing the illegal unreported and unregulated fishing that enhanced the removal of the Yellow Card to Solomon Islands fisheries industry which is very important.

This includes a number of projects being funded during under his tenure.

Tezapsidis during his farewell remarks reminded that the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) is just next door and this will resolve many of the problems practically all that the country will be facing.

He admitted yesterday that he had gained much more out of this country for the past four years than what he would like to give for various reasons.

Taro airfield concern

Written by
Milton Ragaruma
-
0

BY BARNABAS MANEBONA

TARO Station’s residents at Choiseul Province have raised concern over drunkards usually polluting the Taro airfield.

A local resident and rest house owner Mr Patson Pitabule speaking on behalf of locals to Island Sun said it has come to notice from observation that local drunkards are usually polluting Taro airfield with their empty cans of beer and their boxes giving a hard time for Solomon Airlines Agent to clean their rubbish up.

Respect to the airfield is what they are seeking for according to the locals.

“We call on the residents of Taro including visitors to respect the airfield and its surroundings so that the airfield will have a clean environment site,” urged Pitabule.

He added that such attitude is to avoid accidents as well.

The locals are now suggesting for a security personal for the airfield.

1...1,2701,2711,272...1,663Page 1,271 of 1,663