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Restocin tablets run out from pharmacies

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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By EDDIE OSIFELO

RESTOCIN tablets have run out of stock in Honiara pharmacies after the public responded swiftly and purchased them during the outbreak of the Covid-19 recently.

The anticold (Restocin) is a combination medicine used in the treatment of common cold symptoms.

It relieves allergy symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes and congestion or stuffiness.

It contains paracetamol (500mg), chlorphenamine (anti-histamine) (2mg), caffeine (30mg) and phenylephrine (5mg).

Island Sun checked with Le Pharmacy, Hyperchem Pharmacy, People Pharmacy, Honiara Dispensary, City Pharmacy SI Ltd and Panatina Chemist Ltd and found out that stocks have run out already.

Only Le Pharmacy has two packets of 100 tablets in each packet.

It is selling 20 tablets for $30.

City Pharmacy SI Ltd has only one to two stripes left on its shelf.

One strip consists of 10 tablets.

Staff of the Pharmacies said in the past, just few people normally come in to get restocin.

As such the sale of the medicine was very slow in the past.

However, during the covid 19 outbreak, the sales has increased which saw many people purchased the medicine after they found out that the it is good to counter the covid 19 virus.

All the pharmacies are expecting new stocks of restocin by end of this month or in March.

Solomon Star reported a trained medical doctor, Reginald Aipia has used restocin in stopping the spread of the virus in Ontong Java, Malaita Outer Islands after the Government blamed the origin of the virus started in Ontong Java, brought by a medical doctor in Tasman, Papua New Guinea.

Medical store still deploying PPEs to provinces

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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Senior Medical staff at the Medical Store late last year.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

THE National Medical Store continues to deploy level one, two and three Personal Protective Equipment to the provinces in response to COVID-19 transmissions in the provinces.

Minister of Health and Medical Services, Dr Culwick Togamana announced this recently.

“Our National Medical Store continues to deploy level one, level two and level three Personal Protective Equipment to the provinces for frontline health workers as well essential services,” Togamana said.

He said 10,000 more level three PPEs which include all body covers have also arrived from Australia.

“Let me sincerely thank the government of Australia and its people for the ongoing support, efficient responses to my Ministry’s call and request and timely delivery of the medical health supplies,” Togamana said.

He adds that the National Infection Prevention Control and Technical Expert are also providing advice and guidance on the management of COVID-19 related supplies to ensure the Ministry is positioned well in managing its cvoid-19 supplies.

“This is important to proficient and rational use of  stocks availability,” he added.

PNG envoy backs security forces

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Press Release
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PNG High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Moses Kaul.

PAPUA New Guinea High Commissioner Moses Kaul has rallied behind his countrymen serving as security forces in Honiara refuting recent allegations of police brutality, ill-discipline and breaching covid-19 regulations.

In a media statement yesterday, Kaul reiterated that relations between Solomons and PNG remain strong.

“I wish to assure our good people of PNG and Solomon Islands that regardless the discordant backdrop of challenges including the security, lawlessness and Covid19 pandemic, bilateral relations between PNG and Solomon Islands remains Vibrant and fortified in the spirit of mutual friendship and cooperation,” he said.

“PNG earned a prominent place within MSG and resonates a strong influence over the geopolitics of Melanesian sphere and greater Pacific since the formative years of nation building,” Kaul added.

“PNG Provides strong leadership on development aspirations of the peoples and democracy in the region and will always keep its role as a big brother in the face of adversity.

“The swift deployment of PNG security contingent to Honiara on 26 November 2021 ahead of other participating security forces of the Solomon Islands Assistance Forces (SIAF) attests to the close relationship between our two countries. 

“The presence of PNG security force on the ground unequivocally deterred rioters from further destructions of properties and looting.

“PNG security team was sanctioned by Commissioner Mangau to enforce security operations between Alegator Creek and Kukum Roundabout.

“Those are high-stakes areas that demands exceptional capabilities of PNG security forces to deliver desired outcomes.

“Notwithstanding the impact contribution from PNG Security force together with the Solomon Islands Assistance Force (SIAF), I am concern about certain allegations against the PNG security contingent of brutality, prostitution, alcoholism and even worse for spreading coronavirus to Solomon Islands.

“Those allegations made a few keyboard warriors using social media flatforms are very serious in nature and tantamount to damaging the reputation of PNG security force.

“I condemned those allegations under no uncertain terms because they are baseless, derogatory and also provoked inflammatory public comments. 

“I challenge those critics to register your complaints or grievances through proper channels principally with SI Police and PNG High Commission in Honiara to amicably seek justice and establish a pathway forward for common good.

“I must at this juncture commend the manner in which all parties involved in those two incidents in Henderson’s areas for their goodwill gestures and reconciliation initiative that appeased the cases between PNG security officers and community members there.”

Kaul said PNG government does not condone any such actions of its discipline forces but requires that all security personnel on deployment overseas upholds highest level of discipline with respect for the jurisdictions of the host country as ambassadors.

“I call on everyone to be responsible about making public criticisms. Their narratives must be supported with facts and evidence not to overall embitter the relationship between the two countries.

“We need to look at the bigger picture and see the immense level of contribution PNG and other SIAF members has made towards not only quelling civil unrest and restoring lawlessness in the country but building capacity and confidence of the SI national security apparatus for the long term.

“These interventions to enhance security cooperation reflects the current vibrantly fortified state of bilateral cooperation between PNG and SI.

“Also, from the multilateral perspective for all participating countries, this is a monumental achievement in the context of regional security cooperation since RAMSI in 2003.     

“PNG government is committed to keeping its security forces on the ground for as long as their peace keeping mission is required.

“I must be clear here that PNG security force is here on invitation of the SI Executive Government hence the virtue of that bilateral request supersedes any specific framework arrangements to foster security cooperation like the security pact between SI and Australia.

“In terms of the long- term security interests, PNG and SI governments are in consultations dialogue to agree on a legal framework on security cooperation between our two countries.  

“PNG has submitted draft of the bilateral Security Agreement to SI government through the Ministry of Foreign Ministry and External Trade to counter propose.

“This ambitious agreement is now a priority bilateral agenda.

“Administering the PNG and SI maritime borders remains a daunting task in terms of monitoring and provide surveillance capacity covering waters of the common border.

“Despite resource constraints, both PNG and SI governments through bilateral common Border Arrangements. Relevant authorities administer strategic posts along the border in enforcing and regulating movements of people and their activities.

“Thanks to the Australian government for providing capacity assistance notably patrol boats that deter illegal border crossings or fishing.”

Meanwhile, Kaul said the case of the PNG doctor, Maine Asapo, who entered Pelau, Ontong Java on  January 9, 2022 from Tasman Islands PNG is another isolated case.

He said although Mr Asapo and his family have been subsequently cleared by government as the “Index Case”, the legality of his entry status remains to be cleared by SI authorities.

Kaul added since the incident is being dealt with by police, PNG will respect that process and wait for outcome of the formal investigations.

He said the preparations to host the 2023 Pacific Games presents yet another real test for SI government to overcome.

“PNG government rallied behind its close knitted friend and neighbour to ensure the Games are successfully delivered by providing twenty million kina in grant assistance.

“This funding has been committed towards building the SI Football Academy facilities.

“PNG is expected to feature prominently in this important regional event alongside our Solomon Islands brothers.”

Covid supplies donated to CSSI

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Press Release
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CSSI commissioner Gabriel Manelusi, left, receives the COVID supplies from SIRCS general secretary Clement Manuri, yesterday.

CORRECTIONAL Service Solomon Islands (CSSI) yesterday took delivery of COVID supplies from the Regional International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The supplies include 600 Face Shield, 1000 Reusable mask, 8000 Gloves, 20 Can Spray (Disinfection) 5 litres, 8000 Surgical Masks, 1000 Sanitizers, 100 Chlorine/Bleach 5%, 1000 PE Aprons, 6 Oximeter and 4000 Isolation Gown.

Secretary General of Solomon Islands Red Cross Clement Manuri handed the supplies to CSSI commissioner Gabriel Manelusi.

Manuri said ICRC was delighted to donate the items and materials for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

“They anticipate that the donation will be put to best use by CSSI in its endeavor to fight the pandemic in places of detention in the country,” Manuri said.

“ICRC also pledged their continuous support to the CSSI in this regard and offered to reach out in cases where further assistance is required,” he added.

In response, Manelusi thanked the ICRC Regional delegation in Suva and for their timely support.

He urged all to work together to fight against the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

Sir Albert wants Commission of Inquiry into 2021 Honiara riots.

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer. Photo by RNZ

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

CHIEF Justice Sir Albert Palmer has called for a Commission of Inquiry to determine the cause of the 2021 November riot and looting.

He made the call during the opening of the legal year this week, which was conducted virtually.

Justice Palmer said the Chinatown riots were a disgrace and an embarrassment.

He said the criminal activities and lawlessness cannot be condoned.

“This is the second or third time this has occurred and is the most destructive of all,” Sir Albert said.

“Nearly the whole of China town was burnt down,” he added.

“For some businesses that had just rebuilt their properties, it would be heart wrenching to see their properties go up in smoke again.”

The chief justice said the incident sadly was not confined to Chinatown but other parts of the city were also targeted, looted and burnt down as well.

“At the right time an investigation or a commission of enquiry should be considered to be set up to determine inter alia, the causes of the riot and recommendations to be considered as to how that part of the town and businesses and property can be better secured and protected in future,” Sir Albert said. 

Meanwhile Attorney General John Muria Jnr said the events that occurred on November 24 was a sad one for Honiara and for Solomon Islands.

“This was a vibrant display of the lack of understanding and respect of the law and no respect for authority,” Muria said.

“Indeed, it was also a clear manifestation of the ongoing decay of moral and societal values,” he added.

Muria said what transpired during the November riots was amongst other things, a lack of understanding of basic principles of law by our youths.

He said the involvement of youths as young as 13 has prompted him to renew calls to all relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Education and Human Resources that our school syllabus needs to be reviewed to include the education of our children of legal principles.

He said this includes the teaching of legal studies at senior Primary and / or at Secondary levels of education.

“Our Children must learn to appreciate our laws and understand their purpose, Muria added.

“Therefore, I would also like to take this opportunity to express my deepest condolences to those that have their livelihoods destroyed during the recent riots in 24-27 November 2022.

“A number of persons have had their homes, properties and life investments snatched before them in front of their very own eyes.

“I have been advised that investigations are continuing and rest assured that those responsible will still be brought to justice to face the long arm of the law.

“It is disheartening to see footages from the November riots that the rioting, looting

and burning of shops, buildings, vehicles, Police Stations etc were occasioned by a

majority of youths and young people between the ages 13 – 35.

“With these, we expect a rise of juvenile delinquents and Solomon Islands must now take serious strides in the development of juvenile processes, protocols and laws to deal with this issue,” Muria said.

Police thank Malaita public for good behavior

Written by
Samie Waikori
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

ACTING Provincial Police Commander Malaita, Inspector Charles Eddie Koto has thanked the public of Malaita for the good behavior have shown throughout the province over the past weeks.

 In an interview yesterday, he said his office has not received reports of any major crimes across the province over the past weeks, and that explains greater cooperation amongst people amidst the current situation.

Koto said minor crimes were reported over the past weeks, but officers were able to address them with the help of communities in the province.

He reiterated his acknowledgement to the people for the good behavior shown and encourages them to continue uphold the law and work together to tackle the current situation.

Koto said the province is facing community transmission at the moment and it is upsetting everyone even the police to properly carry out services require from them.

“With that, I humbly call on everyone in the province to refrain from any unlawful activities that will only give police hard time to deal with while faced with the current situation.

“My advice is for everyone to work together to prevent their families and communities from the spread of the virus in the province,” he said.

Koto also appealed to everyone to continue to adhere and practice covid-19 measures and listen to information and update from responsible authorities on the transmission.

Vaccination picks up in Honiara

Written by
Press Release
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vaccination sites in Honiara.

As the demand for vaccination picks up in view of the increasing covid-19 community transmission in Honiara city, more than 12,256 doses of vaccines have been administered during the period from 24 January to 9 February 2022.

Of the 12,256 doses administered to date, 1,823 were booster doses, 2,493 were second doses and 7,940 first doses.

“The current roll out strategy to the communities have showed great improvements in terms COVID-19 safety measures, much can be attributed to the support from community leaders and members,” said Health and Medical Services Minister Dr Culwick Togamana on Monday.

Nevertheless, the demand remains significantly higher therefore considerations to reopen fixed sites in Honiara is being reconsidered to compliment the community outreach roll out of the vaccines.

Meanwhile, training for selected Public Servants to conduct covid-19 testing at their workplaces continues with trainees undergoing practical sessions this week.

More of this training for other offices will continue.

Minister Togamana clarified that this will be made available for all government ministries, state owned enterprises, private sector firms, non-government organization, faith-based organizations and so forth, adding that there is no prioritization of a particular group in the whole exercise.

West Kwaio people left out of assistance

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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By EDDIE OSIFELO

PEOPLE of West Kwaio constituency are left out of assistance to cope with the Covid-19 community transmission, following the death of their Member of Parliament, Titus Fika in November 2021.

One constituent posted on Facebook, appealing to the Democratic Coalition for Government Advancement (DCGA) to consider their situation in the constituency.

“Currently, we haven’t got any representative in Parliament, however, during the course of this covid 19 outbreak, the constituency was totally left out with any means of assistance, unlike what other Members of Parliament have done to their constituencies,” the constituent said.

The Electoral Commission is still to come up with a date to stage the by election for West Kwaio and Provincial elections for Western and Choiseul province proposed for June this year.

One staff of the Electoral Commission said they have a plan in place to update the bio metric registration and conduct the elections.

However, the staff said this will depend very much on finance to do that, especially as the country is battling with Covid 19.

Late Fika was the former Minister of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology.

Before becoming a member of the National Parliament, the late Fika worked in the teaching profession as a teacher.

He rose to the level of the Education Secretary for Malaita Province before being appointed Speaker to the Malaita Provincial Assembly.

Where’s the plan for our schools?

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Leader of Opposition, Matthew Wale

OPPOSITION leader Matthew Wale has questioned the Government if there are any plans in place for schools around the country.

In a statement today, Wale said whilst he understands that schools have been closed indefinitely as a result of the community transmission, he has questioned government response plans for our students and schools.

“I am aware that the Government through the education ministry is working on a new mode of learning for schools,” Wale said.

“It would be appropriate for the ministry to let us know how this is going to work out for students and teachers,” he added.

The Opposition leader also queried the education ministry’s learning continuity program for students on SIBC and E-resources for students to be posted on the Internet as announced by the ministry recently.

 “How will this work for most of our rural schools that do not have access to radio and Internet?” he questioned.

He said the current situation is also an opportunity for the government and other stakeholders to discuss on practical means of venturing into a new era of digital learning for our children.

“Even during this time education should never be an option but a necessity. The government should invest in accessibility to online learning in schools as part of its new mode of learning,” Wale said.

He added the new normal should also push forward innovative modes of teaching and the need for government support in that area.

The Opposition leader has also urged the government to look at ways to also prioritize vaccination for school children and students.

Wale said the new modes of learning must take these concerns into account.

Meanwhile, Wale has also questioned when school results are expected to be released, as thousands of students and parents are still eagerly waiting.

Severely sick told to seek medical care

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Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Culwick Togamana

People who are severely ill while undergoing home isolation are advised to seek urgent medical attention at the National Referral hospital.

Health and Medical Services Minister, Dr Culwick Togamana made the call on Monday in his daily covid-19 update.

He said many home-isolated patients may need oxygen at some stage.

The health minister noted that regular oxygen saturation level checks on current patients at the NRH showed that there is increased need for oxygen as many who appear to need oxygen actually need oxygen support.

This medical condition is called Hypoxia which is very serious and can lead to fainting or sudden collapse.

“I have been requested to issue a strong call to anyone at home who starts to feel weak or dizzy after days of fever must not wait but to seek urgent and immediate medical help at the Hospital,” Minister Togamana said.

The Ministry of Health this week procured additional 100 oxygen units that are prepositioned at the National Medical Store for distribution to NRH and Provincial hospitals and health clinics. In addition, a further 400 oxygen units have also been secured.

Meanwhile, the AUSMAT team from Australia is currently providing advice and recommendations to NRH staff including health workers in the Provinces via zoom mainly for COVID-19 patient management.

They are also assisting in the NRH planning for its new normal Business Continuity Plan (BCP), from services to logistics and work flow, due to the new additional COVID ward.

Assistance has also been rendered towards dead body management and purchase of urgent medical equipment for the Central Field Hospital.

“I wish to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Government and people of Australia for the substantial support to the Ministry,” Minister Togamana said.

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