PM says this marks a new chapter
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele says the opening of the new Noro Police Station marks a new chapter of safety, confidence, and opportunity for the people of Noro and Western Province.
Speaking at the official opening program in Noro, Western Province yesterday, Manele said the new facility not only enhances the beauty of Noro but also brings real meaning to public safety and community confidence.
“Today is not only about opening a new building. Today is about opening a new chapter of safety, confidence and opportunity for the people of Noro and Western Province.
“For the public here, this police station means something very real; a mother can sleep at night knowing help is close, our people can walk home safely, and businesses can invest with confidence,” he added.
Manele said the completion and opening of the Noro Police Station is a landmark investment that underscores the Government’s commitment to strengthen national security, support law enforcement, and improve public safety.
He said the new facility is part of the Government’s broader effort to modernise and professionalise the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to meet the changing needs of communities and the country’s evolving security environment.
“We recognise that safe and conducive working environments are essential to effective policing. Our police officers deserve facilities that support their work to protect lives, uphold law and order, and build public trust,” Manele said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that the new police station contributes to two key pillars of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) — Infrastructure Development, Unity and Stability.
“It also directly supports the implementation of our National Development Strategy (NDS), particularly Objective 5: ‘A unified nation with stable and effective governance and public order.
“For GNUT, investment in law and order is not just about policing; it is an investment in economic security, public confidence, and national stability,” Manele said.
He thanked the Government and people of Australia for funding the new facility through the Australia–Solomon Islands Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), and acknowledged the role of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and local contractors.
“I also acknowledge AFP Commander Hall O’Maehgher, Ms. Susan Tarplee, and your team for your professional leadership in implementing this project, together with the local contractors and workers who have delivered a facility that truly meets modern standards. Tagio tumas for your continued friendship and support,” he said.
Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, described the new police station as a worthy and historic investment in the province’s development.
He said the establishment of a modern police station in Noro is fitting, given its status as the second most important township in the Solomon Islands.
“Noro serves as an important mini-town hosting the only tuna processing facility, the country’s second international seaport, and the second international airport at Munda,” Veo said.
“Given Noro and Munda’s status as a second gateway into the country, police presence is also vital. We have seen increases in transnational crimes in recent years — drug smuggling, money laundering, illegal importation and exportation of prohibited goods like arms, human trafficking, and more. It is extremely important that these facilities are protected and kept secure — hence constant police visibility is important,” he added.
Veo said the new station will go down in the history of Noro township as a milestone achievement that will boost police operations and community safety.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Western Province, I would like to thank the Australian Government for its continuous support and assistance, especially in terms of infrastructure development.
“Your investments in projects and initiatives that touch the very lives of our citizens are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to our continued partnership in the years ahead as we strategically address issues that continue to affect the lives of our people,” he said.
Photo: Supplied
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