Samoan player Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu accuses All Blacks of 'stealing' Maori culture

January 21, 2019, 1:41 am

≫ Next: Why are we contemplating saddling the Pacific with more debt?

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Outspoken Samoan rugby player Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu has accused the All Blacks of 'stealing' Maori culture in an expletive-laden social media post.

"The All Blacks' whole identity is stolen from Maori culture," he says. "The All Blacks aren't doing an Indian dance, they're not doing an Asian dance - they're doing a Maori haka."

Apia-based lawyer Fuimaono-Sapolu's was responding to claims that Asian and Indian students at Auckland's Alfriston College had questioned why their school held a special Maori-Pacifica awards ceremony.

"Let me explain why - no other race, no other culture has been targeted deliberately by the New Zealand Government like Maori have," he said. "They deliberately, intentionally attempt to exterminate and eradicate Maori culture."

Fuimaono-Sapolu claimed Maori culture had also been stolen by sporting teams - namely NZ Rugby - and corporates.

"You have Air New Zealand, with their koru pattern on their wing. They're not putting up an Indian pattern, they're not putting up an Asian pattern - it's a Maori pattern.

The Facebook video has been viewed more than 200,000 times, with almost 6000 likes and 4000 shares.

Fuimaono-Sapolu, 38, who grew up in Auckland, played professionally for Gloucester and represented Manu Samoa at two Rugby World Cup tournaments.

But he landed in hot water in 2011, when he accused Welsh referee Nigel Owens of being biased and racist, after he red-carded Samoan fullback Paul Williams against South Africa.

He then compared World Cup scheduling to the Holocaust and apartheid, after Samoa had only three days to prepare for a clash against Wales, who had a week.

When Fuimaono-Sapolu failed to turn up to an International Rugby Board hearing, he was suspended from all rugby for six months. The penalty was later deferred for two years.

SOURCE: NEWSHUB/PACNEWS

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Why are we contemplating saddling the Pacific with more debt?

January 21, 2019, 2:01 am

≫ Next: Ela beach double murder suspect caught in an accident

≪ Previous: Samoan player Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu accuses All Blacks of 'stealing' Maori culture

By Concetta Fierravanti-Wells

Following on from my extensive work as minister for international development and the Pacific (including 35 trips to the Pacific), the government is now rolling out our Pacific "step-up".

I pushed for the Pacific to be a priority in our foreign policy White Paper and more of our overseas development assistance to be redirected to the Pacific. This is our neighbourhood. Our allies expect our focus to be firmly in the Pacific. Scott Morrison’s visit to the Pacific this week is recognition of this.

I advocated for the Pacific to be given cabinet status. Instead, its downgrading to the level of assistant minister sent the wrong message.

I came to understand about Talanoa – the process of dialogue and respect and making decisions for the good of the Pacific family. Despite vast distances, Talanoa has underpinned development of Pacific regionalism to which the Pacific Island Forum is central. Hence, our “step-up” initiatives should be integrated into this regional architecture. The success of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands was a good example of a regional solution where Pacific Island Forum members came together to help the Solomon Islands resolve its security issues.

My warnings early last year about “debt-trap diplomacy” increased the focus on debt in the Pacific. While investment in Pacific Island countries is important for sustainable growth and addressing core priorities, it is vital they not be saddled with heavy debt burdens.

I was therefore surprised when the government announced its $2 billion Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, which mirrors Labor’s proposed Pacific Infrastructure Bank. Key Pacific stakeholders were also surprised given the lack of consultation.

Let’s be clear. A loan is a loan. It needs to be repaid. Given the Pacific’s debt is already about $5.5 billion, including $2 billion to the Asian Development Bank and World Bank, and $1.5 billion to Beijing, why are we even contemplating saddling our neighbours with more debt?

The reality is that lending another $2 billion to countries whose external debt to GDP ratios range from 25 per cent to 90 per cent means those debts are unlikely to be repaid.

Equally, do we honestly believe that by co-operating on projects with Beijing, that somehow, we will convince a communist regime to adopt standards of transparency and openness?

Having been critical of “debt-trap diplomacy”, will we not be equally guilty of burdening the Pacific with more debt? We might argue that our debt is more transparent that Beijing’s and therefore “better debt”. This is not only disingenuous, but it is not in the long-term interests of Pacific Island countries.

We know there are infrastructure needs in the Pacific. Our efforts should be directed into mobilising private-sector capital and supporting investments effectively as a guarantor. We should look at more innovative financing options including through the $1 billion Export Finance and Insurance Corporation initiative and combinations of overseas development assistance and private sector financing so that we don’t impose greater debt burdens on Pacific Island countries.

While every country has the sovereign right to borrow, when debts become due, they need to be repaid. This means their scarce government resources must be deviated into debt repayment and away from critical spending such as health and education.

I find it curious that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has driven Coalition policy in this direction. Or is it a ploy by "fellow travellers" in DFAT to place Australia in a compromised position, thus making it more difficult to call out Beijing when it engages in conduct that is not consistent with being a good international citizen.

Saddling the Pacific with more debt is not in the spirit of Talanoa.

Concetta Fierravanti-Wells is a Liberal senator and former minister for international development and the Pacific.

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Ela beach double murder suspect caught in an accident

January 21, 2019, 11:37 pm

≫ Next: Police Commander's Vehicle burnt in Station Premises in Port Moresby

≪ Previous: Why are we contemplating saddling the Pacific with more debt?

The suspect Nathan Epe, 27 from Hanua Bada Village was apprehended last week Monday after he was trapped in the vehicle.

NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Perou N’Dranou said the suspect has been on the run since the murder and a number of crimes.

Met Sup N'Dranou said the suspect and a number of men had gone into Star HR Limited and stole K1,200 from a female worker there.

A co-worker who attempted to stop the criminals from getting away with the money was shot on the arm with a Pistol. Met. Sup said the pistol has been confiscated by police with the stolen vehicle that was taken at Gerehu some weeks ago and used for the armed hold up at Star HR Limited.

He said upon escape, the criminals had an accident were the vehicle was stuck in a drain at Hohola were Nathan was caught by the public and bashed up whilst his accomplices escaped.

Met Sup added that he is now in police custody and police investigations are continuing. PNGFM News

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Police Commander's Vehicle burnt in Station Premises in Port Moresby

January 21, 2019, 11:42 pm

≫ Next: Palau drops Kosovo recognition in favour of Serbia

≪ Previous: Ela beach double murder suspect caught in an accident

Port Moresby's Hohola Police Station Commander’s vehicle was burnt in the early hours of Friday morning at the police station premises.

Station Commander Ben Kua said he parked the vehicle in front of the Station and took his personal vehicle that morning to go home.

“For reasons not known, someone had poured kerosene on the vehicle and set fire to it”, he said.

“Police suspected a group of boys that were nearby, when interviewed by police they had no idea as to what had happened”,he said.

Commander Kua said this incident may be related to the arresting of two Hohola Police officers involving in the case of an 18 year old girl raped last week within the Hohola Police Station premises.
He said no proper evidence has been found as yet and investigations continue into the incident.

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Palau drops Kosovo recognition in favour of Serbia

January 22, 2019, 3:27 pm

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Palau will no longer recognise Kosovo, instead favouring Serbia, which claims sovereignty over the breakaway state.

The move was announced by Palau President Tommy Remengesau, who met Serbian President Aleksander Vucic in the capital Belgrade on Monday.

A diplomatic note from Palau's Ministry of State which circulated on social media said Kosovo's status should be resolved by dialogue with Serbia, facilitated by the European Union.

Palau, which recognised Kosovo in 2009, said it would support any agreement reached between the two countries.

"The dialogue is paramount and the preferred mechanism to achieve a just, lasting and sustainable solution," the diplomatic note said.

Serbian media reported four more countries were expected to revoke recognition of Kosovo in the coming days.

Palau is the 13th country to sever ties in favour of Belgrade since October, 2017, including Papua New Guinea in July last year.

SOURCE: RNZ PACIFIC/PACNEWS

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Fiji to receive health boost thanks to Canberra Company

January 22, 2019, 3:28 pm

≫ Next: A boost in PNG Opposition Numbers as EHP Governor crosses over

≪ Previous: Palau drops Kosovo recognition in favour of Serbia

A Canberra company is bringing high quality healthcare to many more Fijians thanks to a new partnership with our Pacific neighbours.

Aspen Medical has entered into a 23-year agreement with the Fijian government to deliver critical medical infrastructure and training at two hospitals in the north-west of Fiji's main island.

The company, headquartered in Deakin, has a long history of working in the Pacific, being part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands for 14 years and providing medical services in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Kiribati and now Fiji.

Aspen Medical chairman and co-founder Glenn Keys said the project would deliver much needed and worthwhile medical outcomes in Fiji.

"To be helping someone that is our neighbour is really exciting," Keys said.

"I'm really impressed with how the Fijian government has approached this.

"The 23-year partnership means we will be committed to the long term."

Aspen Medical was chosen as the successful bidder by the Fijian government in November, with the contract officially signed on Thursday last week.

Keys said the company tailored each of their projects to the specific community and geographical needs of a certain location and could provide anything from staff, equipment, pharmaceuticals, ambulances and even aircraft.

"It's a great example of Australian companies taking what we do well and delivering it around the world," Keys said.

With Fiji being an immensely popular destination for Australian tourists, Keys said the partnership would also allow tourists to enjoy a Fijian holiday with the knowledge they would have access to quality health care if they needed it.

Some of the aspects of the partnership will involve equipping the newly constructed 70-bed hospital in the town of Ba and revamping the 260-bed Lautoka Hospital to increase its output.

Aspen Medical will also oversee the installation of new IT and administration systems and enhancing the hospitals' capabilities in a range of specialties including renal dialysis, chemotherapy, oncology, coronary care and maternity services.

Keys said the vast majority of staff will be Fijian and Aspen Medical will oversee the training of all staff to ensure there is a common standard across all areas at both hospitals.

"We won't just be growing local capacity but local capability as well."

Aspen Medical was announced as the National Exporter of the Year for 2018 in November, for delivering medical services around the globe.

Outside their work in the Pacific, Aspen Medical operated seven Ebola treatment centres in two African countries during the Ebola epidemic and treated about 48,000 civilian casualties in Iraq, along with other projects globally..

SOURCE: CANBERRA TIMES

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A boost in PNG Opposition Numbers as EHP Governor crosses over

January 23, 2019, 3:16 am

≫ Next: PNG Commissioner Baki pleased with Policing the Police Task Force Team

≪ Previous: Fiji to receive health boost thanks to Canberra Company

Eastern Highlands governor Peter Numu has joined the Opposition block in an unprecedented move today during parliament sitting amid plans to unseat Prime Minister Peter O’Neill in a vote of no confidence motion.

Governor Numu said his “move to opposition was an individual decision as a national leader”and he was not influenced in any way.
“I see that there is a greater need for us as leaders to contribute to ensure our country is in order before we can talk about our province and districts. National interest is of paramount importance,” said Mr Numu.

Governor Numu’s move to the opposition makes him the first leader from from his province to break ranks with the government leaving behind 8 other open MP’s in government.

Opposition leader Patrick Pruaitch while welcoming Governor Numu to the opposition, praised his bold and transparent move from the government to the opposition.

“Governor Numu has for the time in many many years taken a bold and very transparent move to cross the floor from the government side to the opposition,” said Pruaitch.

He said the crossing over by the governor for Eastern Highlands goes to confirm that government itself is cracking up.

Mr Pruaitch has appealed to other members of government; especially those leaders who put the peoples interests ahead of their own to come out and help the Opposition structure a new government for the people of this nation. PNGFM

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PNG Commissioner Baki pleased with Policing the Police Task Force Team

January 24, 2019, 1:45 am

≫ Next: Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

≪ Previous: A boost in PNG Opposition Numbers as EHP Governor crosses over

POLICE Commissioner Gari Baki is pleased with the efforts and performance of the Policing the Police Task Force Team.

Commissioner Baki said this during the first media conference he held at the police headquarters in Port Moresby this week.

Commissioner Baki said he initiated the team in August 2018 amid alarming increase in the number of police ill-discipline behaviour, police abuse and brutality, police corruption and non-performance. This he said was quite evident in the mainstream as well as the social media.

“As police commissioner I was very concerned about bad police behaviour. I was in fact embarrassed with the number of cases being reported in the media,” Mr Baki said.

“Why was this happening? Was it a training issue? Was this because of a lack of police resources? Was this because of the working conditions of our men and women? Was it a pay issue? Are we in this situation because there was no effective supervision, and command and control within the constabulary? Was this a leadership issue?

“And the answer to those questions is yes. We are in this situation due to a combination of all those factors,” Commissioner Baki said.

Mr Baki came up with the Policing the Police Initiative and established the PPTFT which reports directly to his office through the National Capital District Metropolitan Chief Superintendent Perou N’Dranou.

“I named this team as PPTFT because one of its main duties was to act swiftly on complaints laid by members of the public against bad police behaviour. The other primary objective was to respond to public complaints also in a timely manner,” Mr Baki said.

Commissioner Baki said since the team’s inception it has recorded a total of 133 arrests of which 42 are of members of the Police Force. Twenty of these policemen allegedly committed offences under the Summary Offences Act, 17 committed offences under the Criminal Code Act, five committed offences under the Firearms Act and one for breaching Interim Protection Orders under the Family Protection Act.

The 42 also included two members of the PPTFT, one was arrested, charged and convicted to one year in prison for failing to keep safe custody of a firearm and another for threatening behaviour. The matter is before the District Court.

“I made it very clear to the members of the PPTFT that they would be dealt with swiftly if they step out of line and we did that,” Commissioner Baki said.

Commissioner said the members of the Constabulary have been convicted and serving time in prison for a number of offences including two years for indecent assault, six and seven years for grievous bodily harm, and four years for aiding prisoner to escape. Others have been charged for various offences. The most recent arrest was two policemen at the Hohola Police Station for sexual penetration, in possession of pornography materials and production of pornographic videos.

“I issued directives that all members of the Constabulary charged criminally be dealt with administratively as well. Whilst dealing with policemen the team has also continued with its normal policing duties,” Commissioner Baki said.

Commissioner Baki said the most recent successful police work for the PPTFT was the recovery of 76 and a half cartons of the 160cartons of cigarettes worth K1.3 million stolen from Choulai Wholesale at Badili. He commended NCD Metropolitan Superintendent N’Dranou, Detective Senior Sergeant Terry and their police officers for the excellent police work in recovering the stolen items.

Commissioner Baki also commended Senior Sergeant Terry and his team for not accepting the K100,000.00 reward money. He said he made it clear to Senior Sergeant Terry that it was their duty and they have sworn an oath to protect and serve. Their commitment should not be dictated to or motivated by monetary rewards, he said.

Commissioner Baki however said that as a way of recognising the effort of the members of the PPTFT he would be looking at promotions.

“We have lost so much trust and confidence of the public, let us continue the good work and win back the people’s hearts,” Mr Baki urged members of the PPTFT.

Mr Baki urged all other members of the Constabulary not to see the PPTFT as a threat. They should not feel intimidated or threatened if they are doing their job without fear or favour. They should not be afraid of the PPTFT if they are disciplined and not abusive to members of the public.

“We have a common interest in removing the unproductive, corrupt and abusive members of the police force so work with the team and restore our lost pride. For me as the Commissioner it is not a question of quantity but quality of our police officers. So if I have to sack 500 officers I will do so. I would rather have a small police force of committed, dedicated, honest and trust worthy people than a big police force of corrupt, non-performing, and abusive policemen.

“I will soon be announcing my policing initiatives for 2019 and beyond. I intend to establish similar team in other provinces around the country. The lessons learnt from the establishment and operations of the PPTFT will form part of my policing initiatives for the future,” Commissioner Baki said.

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Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

January 24, 2019, 2:51 am

≫ Next: Opposition MP to cross the floor to join Cook Islands Government

≪ Previous: PNG Commissioner Baki pleased with Policing the Police Task Force Team

The Democratic Alliance Party (DAP) of Solomon Islands caretaker Prime Minister, will review the nation’s diplomatic ties with Taiwan if it comes to power after this year’s election.

That’s according to the party’s manifesto launched in Honiara Tuesday.

“We will embrace a ‘look north’ foreign policy while reviewing our diplomatic ties the Republic of China (ROC) on Taiwan,” the party’s manifesto reads.

Caretaker Prime Minister Rick Hou is leading DAP into this year’s election. He will be assisted by caretaker Development Planning minister Jeremiah Manele.

It’s believed DAP becomes the first political party to explicitly state its intention to review the nation’s ties with Taiwan.

Taiwan is one of our major donors, providing up to 100 million a year in budgetary support.

That’s apart from the many scholarships it offered annually to students to study in Taiwan.

But the nation’s diplomatic ties with Taiwan have always been fragile, with Mainland China consistently working behind the scenes to get the country switch the relationship.

DAP said it believes that ‘Looking North’ means taking better advantage of opportunities in Asia, something successive governments have worked at.

“This is not a new policy but DAP aims to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Asian countries for development purposes,” it says.

The other fundamental reform DAP aimed at is to pursue new opportunities with traditional partners like Australia, New Zealand and further out, Japan and Taiwan.

It added the party will also utilise existing and explore new opportunities from diplomatic relations established with other countries.

“The party will also review all the foreign postings and diplomatic missions.

“The possibility of actively pursue opportunities on South-South Cooperation and Partnership is one of the DAP international affairs policy.”

But DAP made it clear it will respect the sovereignty of Indonesia over West Papua.

Instead, it says it will continue to urge the United Nation Human Rights Council to take appropriate actions to address human rights concern in West Papua.

SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR/PACNEWS

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Opposition MP to cross the floor to join Cook Islands Government

January 24, 2019, 2:58 am

≫ Next: Probe on PNG University sex allegations

≪ Previous: Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

The youngest member of the Cook Islands Parliament, Democratic Party’s Tehani Brown is expected to cross the floors to join the government, reports Radio Cook Islands.

Deputy Leader of the ruling Cook Islands Party, Mark Brown said the Tengatangi-Areora-Ngatiarua MP has considered the move in the interest of the stability of the country.

“This provides our ruling Government of the day with the numbers to ensure a clear majority in the Parliament of the Cook Islands,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.

“Tehani herself as we know is a very independent young woman. She has shown a lot of promise as the youngest member of Parliament in the country and I think she has been underestimated quite a bit by the Democratic Party and she is very firm in her convictions to support the Government of the day, particularly because the people in her constituency have said that they are very happy with the work that is happening on their island and they want that to continue.

"For the Government to continue its work and they want her to represent them in Parliament with that support from the Government.”

Brown said he expects a challenge from the Democratic Party.

"I think it’s always been well-known that there’s been quite a few disruptions within the Democratic Party and they’ve had difficulty in maintaining their members and keeping unity within their own party. And I expect more members from the Democratic Party to be making movement to the Government of the day to ensure stability and to ensure the future development programs that the Cook Islands Government has in place continues without any interruption.”

On Monday, Democratic Party’s Agnes Armstrong was declared the winner of the Ivirua seat after the preliminary count. This led to a scenario when it looked like a hung parliament with 12 seats to the Democratic Party and 12 to the CIP coalition.

Brown is expected to make a statement on her move in the next couple of days.

However, the Democratic Party wants the Government to call parliament and prove their claims that Tehani Brown has gone over to the government side.

Democratic Party leader Tina Browne says the Democratic has not been informed by the young Atiu MP.

Browne told Radio Cook Islands she has heard of claims made by Deputy Prime Minister Mark Brown.

"If this is true- then call Parliament.

Well we are going to wait because if the Deputy Prime Minister is serious there’s only one place to test that claim - call Parliament. Let’s go to Parliament and see who commands majority support otherwise don’t make any claims outside Parliament,” said Browne.

The Democratic Party says this claim is retaliation by CIP after losing out on the Ivirua seat, an attempt to disrupt the momentum the Democratic Party had built, “we can’t stop the DPM from making all sorts of claims, he’s obviously chosen to dampen our excitement and Aggies excitement about her win. It’s sad but I’m not surprised they’re putting pressure on the youngest member of Parliament, it’s sad because people like the DPM more or less is encouraging Tehani to break the law, party hop; it doesn’t make sense to me.”

Browne believes Ethane’s committee is a committed Democratic Party committee and doubts very much there is anything in the DPM's claim.

“There are legal avenues that is going to happen anyway, my understanding is that they will encourage her not to resign, the plan is a bit twisted, I’d rather see the plan first and the comment first before I respond,” said Browne.

On the bright side, Browne said Armstrong’s win is a historic moment in the nation’s parliamentary history as there are more women than ever, “it’s exciting for the Democratic Party, for the women of this country, for Aggie, and for me, and it’s really exciting. Agnes is coming to the Democratic Party with a whole lot of skills, she is going to add value. It may be she hasn’t been in the political arena but she comes with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in business and that’s a good thing,” said Browne.

SOURCE: RADIO COOK ISLANDS/PACNEWS

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Probe on PNG University sex allegations

January 25, 2019, 4:38 am

≫ Next: Agriculture is PNG's star performer: ANZ report

≪ Previous: Opposition MP to cross the floor to join Cook Islands Government

TWO sex-related allegations raised by a female student and a female staff against a University of PNG lecturer will be investigated, says Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Minister Pila Niningi.
The allegations were raised with the university administration by the two who identified the lecturer and asked the administration to do something about it.
When the two women’s complaints reached his office, Niningi requested the university administration to provide him a report on what was being done to deal with them. He still has not received a response.
“We (ministry) had asked for a report but they (UPNG) never got back to us,” he said.
“That (allegations) is one of the things the interim council will look into and take action on. The sex allegations paint a bad picture of the university and warrants investigation and action.”
In a letter dated July 24, 2018 addressed to acting Vice-Chancellor Vincent Malaibe, Niningi said he needed to have a response prepared in case the matter was raised in Parliament.
He therefore asked that a meeting between department acting secretary Fr Jan Czuba, Malaibe and acting Chancellor Dr Nicholas Mann be held to “explore possible united response to this challenge and examine if the university has mechanisms and processes in place to avoid misconduct and to assess and determine any allegations of misconduct”.
The allegation by the female student was that the male lecturer had solicited “sexual favours in exchange for good grades”.
On August 13 last year, the female staff of the university wrote directly to Niningi complaining that her “sexual harassment” complaints against the lecturer beginning in 2015 had “not been attended to” by the university administration.
Niningi yesterday said no woman or student should be mistreated in such a way and the interim council would look into the matter and have it investigated.
“You can’t have (someone) doing that to PNG women or female students, (allegedly) asking for favours in return for good grades,” Niningi said.
Niningi on Monday sidelined the university council led by Mann and Malaibe “due to a failure to address financial mismanagement, and alleged fraud and corruption at the university”.
He appointed an interim council headed by acting Chancellor Jeffrey Dean Kennedy. The council later appointed Professor Kenneth Sumbuk as acting vice-chancellor. The National/ONEPNG

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Agriculture is PNG's star performer: ANZ report

January 26, 2019, 8:43 pm

≫ Next: Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

≪ Previous: Probe on PNG University sex allegations

ANZ’s latest Pacific Insight report, released Thursday, has somewhat given praise where it is due as it lauded the sector that is at the heart of all Papua New Guineans, great and small, on its tireless contribution to the economy.

It cited current focus and upheavals surrounding new mining development in the country continue to foreshadow the real contribution agriculture continues to churn out for the local economy.

“Many see mining investment as the best hope of lifting the standard of living of all Papua New Guineans.

“Certainly, mining project announcements dominate the PNG news headlines. Yet, it is the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector that forms the bedrock of the economy.

“Even though the sector’s output can be volatile – knocked about by commodity price movements, weather patterns and exchange rate shifts – the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector has consistently delivered for PNG,” the report stated.

According to the report over the last 10 years, the agricultural sector has contributed, on average, 0.6 percentage points to real GDP growth of 5.4 per cent each year.

“This is 0.4 per cent more than the contribution from the mining and quarrying sector. The oil and gas sector has contributed more, 2 per cent a year, but this average figure is skewed by LNG production from 2014.

“If we exclude the LNG effect (when output lifted by 287.5 per cent and 93.3 per cent in 2014 and 2015 respectively), the oil and gas sector’s positive addition to GDP growth falls to 0.1 per cent.

“Put simply, agriculture has been PNG’s star performer for years, but it does not get the limelight.”

It said as a result of it not getting much prominence, funding support for training, productivity enhancement and infrastructure has suffered.

“We believe this sector should be given the same attention as mining because it provides PNG with the best opportunity for development of small and medium enterprises, which in turn will broaden the base of the economy’s growth drivers,” the report stated.

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Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

January 26, 2019, 8:45 pm

≫ Next: Police Troops in Alotau

≪ Previous: Agriculture is PNG's star performer: ANZ report

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Police Troops in Alotau

January 27, 2019, 12:47 am

≫ Next: Marape takes tough stance on corrupt public servants

≪ Previous: Democratic Alliance Party in Solomon Islands to review diplomatic relationship with Taiwan

Police troops on PNG government orders via their Police Department are on the ground in Alotau.
Their presence is a response to the increase in crime in Milne Bay, with particular interest in the notorious Tommy Baker crew whose recent attack last Wednesday, saw the burning down of up to 8 police accommodation units and Alotau coming to a complete standstill.
Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel who arrived in his electorate this morning, is of the view this is not a general law & order issue, it’s a couple of heavily armed gang leaders influencing youth in great numbers that need a collaborative approach to address and stopped.
The arrival of the troops is one way they plan to address this.
"So members of the Police have come down for this special operation and there's other support too but we don't want to give too much away. It will be quite a strategic operation to go after these people and I also encourage them to surrender and make this easier for everybody”.
Abel headed into a closed briefing this afternoon, the Provincial Law & Order Committee tasked with resolutions going forward have yet to release to public what they've discussed, chairman Ps Peter Boena assures this will be done officially this Monday.
From the briefing to DPM Abel today, it's highly likely the coming Provincial Executive Council will make submissions on imposition of a curfew for Alotau, this will be decided on the floor of assembly around mid this week.
Provincial Police Commander chief inspector George Bayagau in the meantime has announced Alotau Town to be back to normal operation with these new developments and security help on the ground. NBC news/ONE PNG

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Marape takes tough stance on corrupt public servants

January 27, 2019, 1:04 am

≫ Next: Vanuatu referendum on political reform on 04 June

≪ Previous: Police Troops in Alotau

James Marape

FINANCE Minister James Marape has warned public servants in the provinces and districts involved in corrupt practises to watch their tails as such actions won’t be tolerated by the department and his ministry.
He was responding to Member for Menyamya Thomas Pelika who asked Marape why certain public servants including a few in his district continue to plunder the government coffers six months after their actions were reported.
Pelika said he had raised the matter in parliament on several occasions; however nothing was done to remove these corrupt officers who continue to abuse public monies.
Marape in his response indicated that the Department of Finance does not tolerate public servants who stole or abused public funds.
“There is a process in removing such public servants and my department is doing its best to deal with various cases that had come to our attention.
“I am assuring you that Finance will set in motion a process to remove provincial and district officers found to be jeopardising the financial process,” he said.
Marape said this will only be effected when evidences are produced to back alleged instances of misconduct.
He warned public servants in the provinces and districts that cheques will only be processed upon District Development Authority resolutions (DDA).
He said it is very important that they are to adhere to the DDA resolutions and not go about processing cheques at their own will.
“I will not tolerate officers in the provinces and districts who are involved in such corrupt practises and those found will be dealt with accordingly,’’ Marape warned.
Pix cap: Finance Minister, James Marape. The National/ONEPNG

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Vanuatu referendum on political reform on 04 June

January 27, 2019, 10:20 pm

≫ Next: Inia Seruiratu takes over Fiji's foreign affairs portfolio

≪ Previous: Marape takes tough stance on corrupt public servants

Voters in Vanuatu will be given the opportunity to vote for political reform laws in the country’s first ever referendum in June this year.

The Chairman of the Task Force on the Constitutional Review, Minister Ralph Regenvanu explained that the voting process will be similar to the General Elections.

All eligible voters will vote in the existing polling stations. According to the Task Force Chairman, on voting day which is June 4, 2019, a question in relation to the reform will be asked.

“Those who agree with the question will indicate their answer with a green card and those who disagree with a red card,” he told Daily Post.

Minister Regenvanu confirmed a budget has been secured for the national referendum.

There is also a budget for mass national awareness into this historic event.
“This week the Government will commence with the consultations with national institutions such as the Vanuatu National Council of Women (VNCW), Vanuatu Christian Council (VCC) and all the provincial centre prior to the final national consultation on Political Parties Bill which is scheduled to take place at the Chief's Nakamal on February 22, 2019,” he said.

Regenvanu further stated that based on the outcome of the final consultation, the bill and constitutional amendment will be taken before the parliament in March to be passed.

“Once it's passed, we will organise the national mass awareness ahead of the referendum. The awareness will take place in April and May.”

A timetable has been prepared on the consultation schedules of all the respective provincial centre. The consultation in Shefa Province will be held on January 31 at the Shefa Provincial Headquarter.

Minister Regenvanu is currently conducting consultations on this proposed political reform law in his capacity as a Member of Parliament for the Port Vila Constituency.

Prime Minister Charlot Salwai initially asked all MPs to consult with their constituencies and obtain their views regarding the proposed package when he introduced the proposed political reform package in Parliament last December.

This is part of the Government's efforts to introduce laws for the purpose of reducing political instability and enhancing the integrity of Parliament and its members.

The proposed political reform package consists of one new law, an amendment to the Constitution, and amendments to two existing laws.

The four proposed Bills are:

1. A new law, the Bill for the Political Parties (Regulation) Act

2. An amendment to the Constitution, The Constitution (Seventh)(Amendment) Act

3. Bill for the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act

4. Bill for the Charitable Associations (Incorporation)(Amendment) Act.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST/PACNEWS

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Inia Seruiratu takes over Fiji's foreign affairs portfolio

January 27, 2019, 10:21 pm

≫ Next: PM O’Neill to pay repair costs of PNG Parliament

≪ Previous: Vanuatu referendum on political reform on 04 June

Two new Assistant Ministers were sworn-in at State House Monday and Fiji’s Minister for Defence Inia Seruiratu has also been appointed as the Minister for foreign affairs.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama confirmed that Selai Adimaitoga has been appointed as the Assistant Minister for iTaukei Affairs while Alipate Nagata has been appointed as the Assistant Minister for Sports.

Inia Seruiratu takes over the foreign affairs portfolio from Prime Minister Bainimarama.

SOURCE: FIJI VILLAGE/PACNEWS

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PM O’Neill to pay repair costs of PNG Parliament

January 27, 2019, 10:23 pm

≫ Next: Dusk till dawn curfew to restore law and order in Milne Bay

≪ Previous: Inia Seruiratu takes over Fiji's foreign affairs portfolio

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has taken it on himself to pay for repairs to properties at Parliament House allegedly damaged by a group of police and prison officers in November.

“I got fed up with the broken doors and broken glasses not being fixed, and after a few months, I am not going to wait,” he said.

“So I will pay myself to avoid all the processes. Not a good image to not attend to this issue.”

O’Neill told The National that parliament did not have the money to pay for the repairs.

“I am paying for it myself,” O’Neill said.

He did not say how much money he would spend. He toured the damaged areas on the ground floor of Parliament House on Friday.

It is expected that a parliamentary damage assessment report will be tabled in Parliament this week after it is approved by the House Committee.

Police and prison officers had stormed into parliament to protest the delay in the payment of their allowances incurred while providing security during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Summit last November.

Speaker Job Pomat said late last year that the preliminary cost assessment was more than K15 million (US$4.5 million). It included the damage to the personal properties of some Parliament staff.

Clerk Vela Konivaro confirmed that he had been told about the decision by O’Neill to pay for the damaged properties.

“Funding is not our area. It’s Government’s responsibility. That’s where the PM stepped in.

He did not advise anyone. He said he will take it on board,” Konivaro said.

He said the broken windows and doors needed repairs.

“Looking at the building as it is now is not a good sight,” he said.

“It is our intention to get the proper glasses and the proper people to do it. I saw the paper work being carried out and asked about it and was informed that PM had taken it on himself.” Meanwhile, Parliaments will continue this week.

“If there are more businesses to present to Parliament, the Government would then make a decision to continue after next week,” Konivaro said.

Konivaro said six bills were introduced of which two were passed. The other four will be considered when Parliament resumes tomorrow.

SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS

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Dusk till dawn curfew to restore law and order in Milne Bay

January 27, 2019, 10:25 pm

≫ Next: Fiji crowned champions at HSBC New Zealand Sevens

≪ Previous: PM O’Neill to pay repair costs of PNG Parliament

A 21-day dusk-to-dawn curfew that comes at a cost of K2 million (US$611,000) will be imposed in Milne Bay and a Police Tactical Force (PTF) team is on the ground to arrest or kill notorious criminal Tommy Baker and members of his gang.

The three-week curfew, and deployment of the police, are part of a plan by the provincial government and recommended by the provincial law and order committee last Friday, two days after about 20 armed men terrorised a police barracks in Alotau on Wednesday night, January 23.

The criminals, who are members of Tommy Baker’s gang, took control of the township for about six hours, shot and killed a lawyer, torched the police barracks at Misima Street, stole two provincial government vehicles and a BSP ATM at Alotau International Hotel.

Twenty-five members of the PTF team landed at Gurney airport about midday last Friday as the law and order committee met and resolved to impose the curfew and take immediate and short-term measures to neutralise Baker and his gang and combat law and order problems.

After receiving a situation report on the events of Wednesday night, the provincial law and order committee dealt with a prison escapee surrender package and an integrated approach to address law and order issues.

The meeting ended with an address by Esa’ala MP and Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Steven Davis.

The other MPs were not present. Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Davis said the four district development authorities of Alotau, Esa’ala, Kiriwina-Goodenough and Samarai-Murua had committed themselves to address Milne Bay’s law and order issues and the K2 million would come from their district services improvement program funds.

“We must work together and come up with strategies . . . to inspire a vision to make Milne Bay regain its number one position (as the most peaceful province in the country),” Davis said.

He said the provincial executive council and the provincial assembly must be convened in the next two months to make law and order number one priority for Milne Bay.

“I’m here to make sure that the engine room is ready. In terms of leadership, the political leadership is here. The work has started and we are ready, able and willing to deliver. “All of us, together, must work harder and smarter. If Milne Bay can get it right, we can set a template for Papua New Guinea,” Davis said.

The curfew, deployment of the PTF team, prison escapee surrender package and an integrated or holistic approach are part of a strategic action plan that would include medium and long-term measures to address law order issues.

The eight members of law and order committee endorsed the provincial government’s overarching theme objective of “Making Alotau Milne Bay safe again” to restore Milne Bay as Papua New Guinea’s most peaceful and safest province.

SOURCE: POST COURIER/PACNEWS

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Fiji crowned champions at HSBC New Zealand Sevens

January 27, 2019, 10:27 pm

≫ Next: Australia’s Pacific engagement praised

≪ Previous: Dusk till dawn curfew to restore law and order in Milne Bay

Fiji retained their title at the HSBC New Zealand Sevens and won their second tournament in succession on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series 2019 as a result of an emphatic weekend in Hamilton.

The defending champions had looked electric from the very first moment that they stepped onto the park at the FMG Stadium and it wasn't any different when it came to the Cup final against the USA.

Kalione Nasoko signalled the way, alongside the incredibly experienced Jerry Tuwai, and Fiji led 17-0 after seven minutes.

The USA, who were competing in their third Cup final of the season, struggled to gain any real possession and when they eventually came inches from the line a huge counter-ruck followed. Fiji's breakdown work allowed the HSBC Player of the Final Tuwai the opportunity to go the length of the field for his second try of the final. Alasio Naduva also scored a brace as they finished their weekend off in real style.

Head coach Gareth Baber said: "It was obviously very special [to go back-to-back] and I want to say a big thank you to all the Fijian fans. They certainly lifted the team today and we appreciate everything you've done for us."

The side were also awarded the UL Mark of Excellence Award for the act of sportsmanship ahead of the match as they lifted the ball girl high into the air while they said their final prayer.

England won the Challenge Trophy and in the process James Rodwell eclipsed DJ Forbes' record for the most appearances ever on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. It was Rodwell's 90th tournament and he capped the landmark with a try.

The victory means that Fiji draw level with the USA at the top of the world series standings on 57 points. New Zealand follow on 54 before a ten-point gap down to South Africa in fourth. At the end of this year's ten rounds the top four teams will qualify automatically for the Olympics in Tokyo 2020.

NEW ZEALAND WIN BRONZE ON HOME SOIL

New Zealand made sure that they finished their home campaign on a winning note with a 29-7 victory over South Africa in the bronze final.

A battle of wills played out between the two before New Zealand, much to the delight of their home fans, created a 19-7 cushion via tries either side of half-time. Werner Kok's sin-bin for a late tackle on Andrew Knewstubb was then punished by the All Blacks Sevens. The home side's determination shone through as they sent Joe Ravouvou over in the corner before Sam Dickson finished their scoring.

In their respective semi-finals neither New Zealand nor South Africa were able to amass more than one converted try. The Blitzboks found themselves stunned by a focused Fijian outfit while the home side couldn't find a way past the in-form USA.

Fiji's two tries in the first four minutes set the tone against South Africa. Baber's outfit coupled ruthless attacking intent with steadfast defence. Kyle Brown was sent to the sin-bin for a late tackle just before half-time and the defending New Zealand Sevens champions went 24 points up before their own line was broken. Selvyn Davids' chip and collect was excellent to do so however Aminiasi Tuimaba's second try arrived soon after and sealed a 29-7 knockout victory.

In the other semi-final New Zealand led 7-5 at the break against the USA though that advantage was largely against the run of play. The home side conceded first before Regan Ware's interception-try was converted on the stroke of the interval. With four and a half minutes left Vilimoni Koroi was given a yellow card for an illegal tackle on Stephen Tomasin and the USA took their opportunity. A clinical finale saw Tomasin, and then Carlin Isles, strike and that rubber-stamped their place in a first ever Cup final in New Zealand.

In the late morning sun, the Cup quarter-finals played out. First, Fiji started where they left off on day one as Meli Derenalagi crossed in the first minute before Aminiasi Tuimaba then put them 14-0 up. Canada hit back once through Connor Braid but Fiji accelerated away to a 33-7 victory.

South Africa showed the fruits of their experience when faced with the considerable challenge of Samoa. Samoa, who had beaten England and Tonga on day one, led 12-7 at half-time before the Blitzboks punished a couple of errors early in the second half. The seven-try affair, with seven different try scorers, eventually finished 28-19 in South Africa's favour.

The third quarter-final was a Trans-Tasman affair and one that ignited the sold-out FMG Stadium. Australia started with promise but then went down to six men following Maurice Longbottom's deliberate knock-on. The home side seized the moment and Dylan Collier, Jona Nareki and Ware created a 17-point lead at half-time. Despite Australia responding through Simon Kennewell, Tim Mikkelson stretched out the hosts' lead and they then repelled a late fightback from their opponents to take the encounter by 24-17.

The USA made it through to their first Cup semi-final in New Zealand for 18 years with a 19-14 win over Scotland. The series leaders going into the tournament started strongly with Ben Pinkelman's work off the restarts proving to be crucial. Scotland, who proved how well they could comeback by beating France from 21-7 down on day one, almost did it again before a final error out wide halted their charge.

SCOTLAND FINISH FIFTH

A fiercely contested fifth-place final between Scotland and Samoa saw the lead constantly change hands as players stood up and were counted for.

Not for the first time over the course of the weekend, Scotland had to turn around a half-time deficit in order to prevail. In the end, Robbie Fergusson's hat-trick and a late Jamie Farndale try proved to be enough to get the better of a confident Samoan side.

Prior to that Scotland were also made to work by Australia in their fifth-place semi-final. They conceded first before wrestling the game back to lead 12-7. It remained tight until the final minute when co-captain Farndale made sure that a nine-match losing streak against Australia ended in style with a 24-14 victory.

Samoa had to overcome Canada to book their place in the fifth-place play-off. Siaosi Asofolau was instrumental as Sir Gordon Tietjens' team went 21-5 ahead after seven minutes. Canada didn't lose heart though and came back to within three points. It took late brilliance from Johnny Samuelu and Danny Tusitala to secure the 28-19 result for Samoa.

ENGLAND WIN THE CHALLENGE TROPHY

England made sure that they left Hamilton with the Challenge Trophy in their possession after a 36-7 victory over Kenya in the final.

Braces from Dan Norton and Dan Bibby - Norton with his 311th and 312th tries of his career - helped to create a 31-7 hold on the final with three minutes to go. With firm defensive play England made life challenging for Kenya and Tom Bowen's second try of the match ensured that the Challenge Trophy had their name on it.

In the semi-finals, England made light work of Spain. Simon Amor's men pressed 19-7 in front after seven minutes and accelerated out to win 38-7. Record-breaker Rodwell scored the second of their six tries and that match came after a 21-5 win over France in the quarter-final.

The trophy success followed an off-colour first day and the final victory gained valuable series points as Olympic qualification remains top of mind for England. At the end of the series the top four will gain automatic qualification for Tokyo 2020 and England are Team GB's representative side in the world series.

Kenya's route to the final saw them prevail over Tonga 19-12 and open up 24-7 against Argentina. Captain Jacob Ojee led by example with a personal points tally of 25 for the weekend and, despite being a less experienced combination of players, they certainly turned heads over the course of the two days.

SOURCE: WORLD RUGBY/PACNEWS

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