By EDDIE OSIFELO
MINISTER for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration says he’s concerned about “investor confidence” after last November’s riots in Honiara.
Frederick Kologeto expressed his concerns when contributing on the motion to thank the Governor General’s speech to throne in Parliament yesterday.
Kologeto joined the Governor General in condemning the riot last year because 1000 Solomon Islanders have lost their jobs.
He said these are bread winners of their families and also provide supports to their extended families.
“Mr Speaker, not only jobs are lost but also businesses and properties.
“But Mr Speaker, what really concerns me most apart from costs to rebuild is off course the investors’ confidence and the trust and confidence for them to come and invest in the country,” he said.
Kologeto reemphasised the call of the Governor General to all youths in the country to refrain from unwanted activities and to love this country.
“Where is a patriotism? No more Mr Speaker.
“We seem to be regionalised ourselves. I’m from Temotu, Renell and West. We should look at ourselves as Solomon Islanders and love our country,” he said.
As part of rebuilding, Kologeto said the ministry has allocated some funds to local businesses owners affected by the riot.
Parliament meeting resumes at 9.30am today.
