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New Year’s greetings
Agriculture project aims to supply local market
Leadership lacking: CIP
Thrips digging in on Rarotonga
No paper Friday, Monday
Tax information agreements signed with Nordic countries
Busy week at maternity ward
Second Tutangata reunion comes to an end
Direct flight expected to boost numbers
MFEM anticipates increase in revenue
Aitutaki youth party ushers in 2010
Police sporting new caps
Festive season less cheer for some
Sir Terepai still mum on situation
Livestock farming key to $3.5m plan
Govt urged to assist construction industry
Banker back after stint in Samoa
Still dancing at 100
Met service warns public to prepare
Thu
31 Dec
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| Tom Marsters. 09122323 |
Happy 2010 – when hope is more than a mere whisper
Christmas 2009 has been and has gone and on quite a dramatic note that was not entirely unexpected. The full story has yet to be told but what has so far unfolded has simply fed the public thirst for the whole truth to be laid out in public as there is a very strong feeling that the tax payers have been scammed and justice needs to be delivered and finalised.
This has to be part of what we may expect from the new year but I certainly hope that we could expect much more from the year 2010.
The Christmas period has been good to us. The forces of nature have been kind. There have been many family get togethers, reunions, weddings, celebrations of anniversaries and family bondings for which we are world renowned. Unfortunately some did not see the Christmas period out but that is not our call.
Many families camped along the foreshores of Rarotonga enjoying the many gifts of nature with which we have been so richly blessed. These many blessings should be the precursor of what we should expect from the year 2010.
It should be, and I sincerely hope it will be, a year that is better than the last 15 years. We all have to hope that such will be the case. That hope, however, has to be real, inchoate and throbbing. That hope has to be more than a silent whisper in our hearts. It has to be heard. It has to be expressed. The leaders of our nation – traditional, church, politicians and businessmen - must hear it.
Let’s not blame the politicians every time things go wrong. We all must understand the problem and accept blameworthiness according to fault. Many forget that we are where we are – considered widely a model of good governance, democracy and economic progress – because of the contribution of politicians in the past.
Let us all, however move past the complications of politics and hope, pray – more – work towards making 2010 a year when infrastructure development reaches our Sister Islands, when water shortage is no longer a problem, when investments create job opportunities, when alternative energy becomes a way of life, when the disadvantaged face life with confidence and when peace, prosperity and progress are not dirty words.
Tom Marsters
Leader of the Opposition
Agriculture project aims to supply local market
Thu
31 Dec
Food production for the local market will be the focus of government’s new $3.5 million project to stimulate the growth of the agriculture industry in the southern group islands.
The new 30-page strategy document for revitalising the industry was launched yesterday with the project to kick off in the new year.
“There are a handful of growers throughout the country producing for the tourism market, but there still remains a large amount of vegetables and fruit brought in from New Zealand to meet the demands of the tourism industry and local market,” it says.
Around $2.7 million worth of fruit and veges is imported annually. Exports in comparison have been very small – just $117,000 worth in 2007.
This is why the new project will focus on the supply of fresh produce to the local market before the export market as there is potential for growers to meet much of the needs of the local market where there is currently more demand.
Part of the new agriculture strategies for Mangaia, Atiu, Mauke and Mitiaro is to have growers paid, on harvest of their crops, out of an initial $500,000 revolving fund, most likely through the Bank of the Cook Islands.
Agriculture minister Robert Wigmore says growers and farmers can be put-off by the often long wait to be paid for their produce and the complexities of getting it to market.
With the help of agencies like the Business Trade and Investment Board, a supply system will be set up so that farmers and retailers all get what they need in order to make their income.
According to Wigmore, the formation of grower’s associations on the four islands will be essential to the success of the revival of the industry.
Government is now working on securing favourable transport and market links.
Wigmore says news of Kia Orana Air’s planned start up next year adds another option for transportation of agricultural produce from the islands to Rarotonga.
The outer islands project is part of an overall national economic development strategy which aims to improve the industry by developing a ‘distinct cuisine’ based on fresh, local, and organic foods; development of model farms; and upgrade the Punanga Nui market place to a six day all-weather day and night facility.
The project will have several positive outcomes for the entire country if it is successful. Apart from increasing the income and revenue generation of the outer islands, it also aims to improve health, add variety to local food production and revive the spirit of community work and support.
With the average age of farmers in the outer islands being 54 years, and very limited numbers in the ‘next generation’, a lot of the project’s success will also depend on whether the islands can create the workforce needed for increased agriculture production.
Leadership lacking: CIP
Thu
31 Dec
The formation of a minority government and the return of Wilkie Rasmussen, demonstrates the failure at the top and within government, says the Cook Islands Party.
“Restoring confidence in the role of government is very important and this is the CIP’s position especially during times of economic and political uncertainty,” said a party statement issued yesterday. “It is the party’s view that stability and leadership needs to be restored and promoted at this time to ensure that the needs of our people are met and that public sector continues to provide and maintain core government services without compromising the country’s reputation.”
The release further stated that the party supports and encourages any move to establish stability within public sector to ensure that the functions of government are not compromised in any way.
“CIP has an open door policy in place and will remain committed to providing support for stable leadership and will also provide support on motions of confidence and supply as appropriate.
“The CIP will continue to focus its efforts on winning at the polls next year and has set timelines for the preparatory work involved in establishing its campaign teams and election strategies.
“We know we have a lot of work to do to win voter confidence in this very unpopular political environment, but we are being proactive and want to ensure that stability is maintained and that leadership is demonstrated at this time.”
Thrips digging in on Rarotonga
Thu
31 Dec
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Tehani and Serena Cummings, keen observers who helped discover new host plant for thrips.
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The Cuban laurel thrips.
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Fig trees in Muri, Nikao and Arorangi were found to be heavily infested with Rarotonga’s latest pest, the Cuban laurel thrip.
Discovered in this month by entomologist Dr Maja Poeschko, thrips literally caught the attention of Rarotonga residents -- hitting unsuspecting motorcyclists in the eye.
Poeschko said being hit in the eye by a thrip would be similar to getting chilli in the eye, as the critters release an acid-like substance.
They are also attracted to bright colours and reports have been received of the pests harassing people wearing brightly-coloured clothing.
As well as being a nuisance, the thrip may represent a threat to agriculture because of its ability to adapt to host plants.
Upon its discovery in early December, the ministry of agriculture was concerned with stopping the spread of the thrip to the outer islands and put preventative measures in place.
The ministry has since chemically-treated two severely-infested fig trees on the western side of the airport, prior to cutting them down.
“If we had just cut the trees down, the thrips simply would have flown away,” said Poeschko.
All potted Benjamin fig trees at the airport check-in areas have been removed and around 50 yellow sticky traps have been laid on palm trunks along the airport.
Chemical treatment is not recommended in residential areas although some gardening experts recommend pruning infested plants or trees at the shoots which the adult thrips feed off and breed in.
Local gardeners have also been pruning and burning cuttings, or cutting infested trees right down.
Poeschko made the discovery of another host plant with the help of two local children, Tehani and Serena Cummings.
The budding botanists lead Poeschko to the Cleome weed -- also known as tickweed -- when she was checking a report of the thrip breeding on a pawpaw tree.
“They took me by the hand and knew what I was looking for. I could have been looking for hours, but they knew exactly what was going on,” said Poeschko.
Sure enough, the thrips were found to be breeding and multiplying on the weed.
It is not yet known whether the thrip has caused or will be of damage to other plants.
There are two natural enemies of the thrip -- the tiny black ladybird beetles and lacewings.
“The good news is that in the long term these have the potential to reduce the thrip population on Rarotonga,” said Poeschko.
However she said it is possible that the ministry may introduce another insect or “bio-agent” from Hawaii if the existing enemies of the thrip do not lessen their numbers.
No reports have yet been received of the thrip in the outer islands with bio-security staff stepping up border control measures for flights.
However protecting the outer islands from the pest is of major concern.
“It might sound silly, but if you are flying to the outer islands, avoid wearing bright clothing,” said Poeschko.
No paper Friday, Monday
Thu
31 Dec
There will be no newspaper tomorrow, Friday, marking New Year’s Day, or on Monday, January 4 (day after New Year’s observed). However there will be a paper on Saturday, January 2 – the deadline for advertising in this paper, is 1pm today. The deadline for Tuesday’s paper (January 5) will also be today at 3pm. The management and staff of Cook Islands News would like to wish everyone all the best for 2010.
Tax information agreements signed with Nordic countries
Sat
2 Jan
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Danish Ambassador in Canberra, Susanne Shine and former cabinet minister Tangata Vavia, who was acting minister of finance earlier this month sign the new agreement between the Kingdom of Denmark and the Cook Islands.
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Seven new tax information exchange agreements were signed between the Cook Islands and Nordic countries earlier this month.
Former minister Tangata Vavia signed the TIEAs on behalf of government at the Danish ambassador’s residence in Canberra on December 16.
This follows the recent signing of a TIEA with Ireland by former minister of finance, Sir Terepai Maoate.
The TIEAs allow for these countries and the Cook Islands to request information from each other where a specific taxpayer is under investigation, and where there is reason to believe that relevant information is held in the other country.
“These signings were an important step for the Cook Islands in demonstrating its international cooperation on tax matters and to the principles of transparency and effective exchange of information,” says the ministry of finance.
The entering into these agreements is further evidence of the Cook Islands’ commitment to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) efforts in creating a level playing field in the international arena, encompassing the principals of transparency and effective exchange of information for tax purposes.
The new agreements make a total of 11 TIEAs entered into by the Cook Islands – just one short of the dozen required to be placed on the OECD’s list of jurisdictions that have substantially implemented the internationally agreed tax standard.
The country has become a leading jurisdiction in the fight against money laundering with comprehensive laws and infrastructure now in place says MFEM.
According to the recently completed review by the Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering, the Cook Islands now ranks ahead of all other Pacific countries, including both Australia and New Zealand, in compliance with international standards.
Busy week at maternity ward
Sat
2 Jan
These four darling newborns were among the last to be born in the year 2009. Dr May Aung said that they have had their hands full since Wednesday delivering seven babies – all before the New Year!
When CI News visited Rarotonga Hospital’s busy maternity ward on Thursday morning, two new babies – both girls had just been born on the last day of 2009 – one at 7.40am and one at 9.45am.
The four mums we visited had yet to name their new bubs, but all were enjoying their first days of bonding.
Next week we hope – fingers crossed -- to bring you news of the first baby of 2010.
Second Tutangata reunion comes to an end
Sat
2 Jan
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Three of the children of Patetepa and Manarii lead the song on the opening day at Te Roukuporu marae in Matavera – from left Tamarii Tutangata, Tereapii Enua and Rua.
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Four years of planning have culminated in the second Pierre Tutangata family reunion held in Takitumu over ten days.
The descendants of Patetepa and Manarii came together from New Zealand, Australia and Rarotonga, with the youngest member- Manarii Etches - just a week old on opening day. Manarii carries the name of his father and great-grandfather.
“We held the reunion to honour our parents and the last one was such a great reunion we said it was worth doing again in four years,” said Manarii Etches.
The first reunion was held in 2005.
Chairperson Teina Etches says that this extended reunion has been highly successful.
“Its fantastic having it over a longer time -- you really get to know each other. It’s working well, not only for the older generations but for the younger ones as well,” she said.
Each day of activities was organised by someone different allowing for a full range of activities to appeal to all generations.
The reunion included a day decorating the Christmas tree, a camp out on motu Koromiri, a bus tour and an ‘amazing race’ around Muri.
The opening day last week saw family being called onto Te Roukuporu marae in Matavera.
There the family honoured their past, present and future, remembering loved ones that have passed on, with floral tributes and song.
The reunion concluded yesterday.
Direct flight expected to boost numbers
Tue
5 Jan
Visitor numbers from Australia have grown over the 2009 calendar year and this is expected to continue with the introduction of the 17 week trial direct flight from Sydney-Rarotonga from June to September 2010.
“This has the potential to greatly increase arrivals from Australia as travellers would no longer need to transit through New Zealand,” said the half yearly fiscal and economic update report published by the ministry of finance and economic management (MFEM) last week.
“Currently, the Australian market is strong and sustainable, recording significant increases in arrivals to the Cook Islands this year. Over the 11 months of 2009 till November, a total of 12,735 Australians have visited the Cook Islands. This is a 33.8 percent increase over the same period in 2008.”
The marketing of the Cook Islands to North America together with the direct Los Angeles-Rarotonga flight has proved beneficial to the local economy says MFEM.
According to a second analysis completed by NZ consultants AirBiz for the route, the economic returns of this service far exceed the cost of supplying the service.
Due to the Pacific Mini Games held in the Cook Islands in September to October this year, a huge influx of other Pacific islanders was seen.
“With all the above considered there is indication that December should continue the positive trend. December is usually a quiet month with many Cook Islanders returning to our shores for Christmas holidays with family and friends. Visitor numbers should see 2009 be the best year for the Cook Islands tourism industry signifying great performance from the industry and the economy as a whole,” the report says.
Several events also took place in the Cook Islands this year attracting many visitors specifically for them. MFEM says among the notable events were the Golden Oldies Rugby Mini Festival (May 29 – June 3), the World Youth Netball Championships (August 11-21), the Pacific Mini Games in late September, the International Rugby Sevens (November 6-7) and Vaka Eiva (November 20-27 ).
Log onto www.mfem.gov.ck to download the full half yearly fiscal and economic update.
MFEM anticipates increase in revenue
Tue
5 Jan
Government anticipates a three percent increase in its operating revenues this financial year over the previous year.
The half yearly fiscal and economic update report released by the ministry of finance (MFEM) last week reports that the revenue which mainly comes from taxation is projected to increase by a million to $97 million by June 2010.
This increase is due to higher estimates of some taxation receipts. The increase in revenue has been attributed to a number of factors such as the hosting of sporting events this year and the resulting increase in visitor arrivals.
Around 42 percent of the $82.2 million projected income from operating revenue and ‘expenditure taxation revenue’ is from value added tax on goods and services.
In the five months to November VAT receipts are $1.1 million above estimates. Income tax receipts have also gone $300,000 over estimates and departure tax receipts were $400,000 over June estimates.
Departure tax was increased late last year (2009) and government expects to make $5.7 million from it this financial year -a massive increase from $2.9 million received in 2008-09 financial year.
Despite the small increase in revenues this year, MFEM projects that the next financial year will only see a one percent increase in operating revenues and the following year (2011-12) a 1.5 percent increase.
“These small increases are due to anticipated slowing of growth in the economy over this period. These projections may change in the full year update. Economies around the world, including New Zealand and Australia are coming out of recession and starting to grow again, which may result in a further increase in tourism and more economic activity for the Cook Islands,” says the report.
Government has admitted its spending is already outstripping its income which in coming years will result in serious budget shortfalls if it can’t increase its revenue and curb spending.
Aitutaki youth party ushers in 2010
Tue
5 Jan
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Naomi Bishop (second from left) and her friends welcomed in the New Year last Wednesday night.
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The Henry boys got together with their mates to complete their ‘Diva’ looks.
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Two Aitutaki youths were ‘arrested’ by police last Wednesday night – all in the name of New Year’s fun.
On the evening of December 30, over a hundred Aitutaki youth attended the New Year’s Eve ‘Divas and Hustlers’ crime scene party at the island’s airport terminal.
At 11pm the police vehicle with flashing lights turned up unannounced to find the ‘criminals’ of the night and handcuff them.
Strickland Charlie and Lucy Daniel were named the best Hustler and Diva of the party before being ‘released’. Both won lagoon cruises for two with Bishop’s Cruises and an Araura video.
Air Rarotonga also sponsored the evening’s first prize of a return ticket to Rarotonga which was won by Raymond Mitchell.
The ‘safe’ New Year’s youth party initiative for under 18s was initiated by Aitutaki MP Teina Bishop’s daughters Maria (17), Tania (16), and Naomi (14).
The teens, who are currently on their Christmas break from their studies in Australia, were prompted to do something for youth at New Year’s when in 2007 they saw just how many hung around New Year’s eve parties on the island.
Wanting to create a safe environment for youth to enjoy the night with no alcohol and smoking, the Bishop sisters decided to create what has now become an annual event since 2008.
This year the party was held a day early to coincide with New Year’s in New Zealand and other parts of the world.
The airport terminal was decorated with police tape and feather boas with teens receiving wristbands and glow sticks after paying the $3 entry fee.
Parents were encouraged to be part of the event as well with some helping to run it.
The youth are now looking forward to the next ‘New Year’s’ party – in less than 12 months time.
Police sporting new caps
Tue
5 Jan
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The Cook Islands police model their new police caps to be worn as an alternative to their usual forage caps.
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Police are sporting a new look this summer with their latest uniform addition.
Officers have been issued official operational caps as an alternative to their usual hats to “provide comfort without compromising the presentation of the uniform”.
Inspector Tere Patia said the caps are widely worn by police throughout the region including officers in the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
“They are considered more suitable and comfortable to wear, especially in warmer weather and on police operational duties,” Patia said.
“They are also cheaper to purchase and maintain.”
The forage caps will still be worn at ceremonies and special parades.
Festive season less cheer for some
Tue
5 Jan
With international trends showing a rise in the incidents of violence reported over the festive season, some experts claim the season is one of less than cheer.
Unique to the festive season are higher rates of alcohol use, increased financial pressure, and tensions sometimes associated with families coming together.
A leading researcher and psychologist at Waikato University, Neville Robertson says expectations can be high with some becoming violent when those expectations are not met.
“The heavy load of domestic chores typically borne by women may mean that such women do not pay as much attention to their partners as those partners expect – and some demanding men will punish wives or partners for neglecting them,” says Robertson.
He says however that none of these factors change the basic dynamic of privilege and entitlement.
“The man who thinks he is entitled to sleep off Christmas dinner and leave the dishes to his wife may slap her down if she insists he does his share.
Or the man who thinks he is entitled to go fishing instead of helping to host extended family may push his wife over as she attempts to persuade him to stay and take responsibility for hosting others.
“These sorts of events may be specific to Christmas. But privilege and its accompanying entitlements remain the underlying cause of domestic violence, whatever the season”.
Punanga Tauturu representative Kairangi Samuela said that the counselling organisation basically echoes the sentiments of Robertson.
The focus for Punanga Tauturu this year is to improve collaboration with stakeholders in the provision of victim support.
Sir Terepai still mum on situation
Wed
6 Jan
Democratic Party leader Sir Terepai Maoate still does not want to say anything regarding the country’s political situation.
A staff member of his office – which has until Friday to vacate the premises – said yesterday that “it would be premature to make any statements at this stage”.
When contacted last week, Sir Terepai said that he had no comments to make on what was happening on the political scene.
Democratic Party president Makiuti Tongia also said yesterday he was not in a position to comment.
However Tongia did offer the party’s New Year’s greetings to the people of the Cook Islands.
Cook Islands News wanted to find out what the situation is in terms of the Sir Terepai-led Democratic Party faction’s relationship with the members of the Jim Marurai-led cabinet; whether there has been any contact between the two factions or with the opposition; whether an approach had been made to the Queen’s Representative about Sir Terepai’s own support (and perceived lack of support for PM Marurai), and whether there is a plan to file a motion of no-confidence in the prime minister when parliament next sits.
In an interview broadcast on Radio Australia last week, Sir Terepai said that he was “shocked” at his sacking. And when asked whether he was in a position to get rid of the prime minister in the new year when parliament comes back, Sir Terepai replied that that was a “strong possibility”.
“But should anything happen before that, you never know,” said Sir Terepai.
Sir Terepai told the ABC that the party is definitely behind him and that he was disappointed at his sacking as he had been working hard “to mould the party together and doing a lot of work for this government”.
Meanwhile Vavia told Radio New Zealand International this week that he had no regrets about resigning and that Marurai had sacked Sir Terepai after initially agreeing to only take the finance portfolio off him.
Vavia said it wasn’t what was originally agreed to and he resigned to show his support for the leader.
“The decision by the prime minister didn’t fit in with my thinking,” he told Radio NZI.
Vavia added that further talks among members of the Democratic Party are likely to be scheduled soon.
The sacking of Sir Terepai as deputy prime minister on December 23 for his part in the botched Toa fuel farm purchase, immediately prompted the resignation of three cabinet ministers, Vavia, Ngamau Munokoa and Kete Ioane.
Robert Wigmore was kept on as deputy prime minister, and three others – Wilkie Rasmussen, William ‘Smiley’ Heather and Manihiki MP Apii Piho – were subsequently sworn in as ministers on Christmas Eve.
Rasmussen was sacked in July by Marurai after admitting to a plan to form a new government.
The new ministers, except Piho, met yesterday to decide on their portfolios.
Livestock farming key to $3.5m plan
Wed
6 Jan
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Most households raise their own pigs – government hopes to now increase larger scale livestock farming in the Nga Pu Toru islands and Mangaia in a new plan to inject life into the failing agriculture industry.
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If your household owns pigs, goats or chickens then you would be in the 92 percent majority that does according to a new report on agriculture produced as a plan to revive the farming of livestock and crop production in the southern group.
“Livestock plays an important role in our customary way of life, as can be seen by the fact that over 92 percent of all households in the Cook Islands keep animals,” it claims.
Government is counting on the statistic for its $3.5 million plan to inject new life into the outer islands agriculture industry – which includes increasing the supply of meat to Rarotonga.
Increasing serious livestock farming is included in the plan which aims to get the islands of Atiu, Mauke, Mitiaro and Mangaia supplying much of the fruit, vegetables and, to some extent, the meat that the Rarotonga local and tourism market demands.
The value of imported meat increased by around 14 percent a year between 2004-2006 suggesting an increase in demand from the local and tourism sectors says the report on ‘revitalising agriculture in our southern islands’ released last week by agriculture minister Robert Wigmore.
Between them, the Nga Pu Toru islands and Mangaia comprise over 50 percent of the land area of the Cooks so they are ideal for farming and growing.
The report shows that in 2006 the Cooks imported 13,378 kilogrammes of fresh and chilled pork meat, 9192 kilogrammes of processed pork (think bacon) which combined were valued at around $300,000. But this falls short in comparison to a whopping 592,348 kilogrammes of broiler chicken meat imported in 2006 worth over $2.4 million.
In the 2000 agriculture census the local production and sale of meat was estimated at just $139,145.
The same census showed that the most popular type of livestock raised was pigs with 92 percent of households recorded as keeping pigs.
Around 31 percent of households indicated they were raising goats, another 30 percent were raising chickens and just four percent were raising cattle in 2000.
Ten years later government is claiming the same dated percentages still stand.
At the time of the census the total number of livestock in the country was estimated at 24,300 chickens, 15,900 pigs, 3600 goats, and 300 cattle.
The government team who worked on the new agriculture plan believe that the country can generally be self-sufficient in pork meat and eggs. The only drawback is the reliance on imported feed for pigs and chickens – so the plan will include producing feed locally.
In some of the Southern islands however, the animals themselves have become a problem. The island of Mangaia, which is known for farming goats, is concerned about reining in the problem of wild pigs and goats so that they can grow more crops without them being destroyed by the wandering animals.
The government report notes that the wild animals are difficult to hunt and cull in the inland makatea areas of Nga Pu Toru.
The report says since the mid-1990s the animal problem has worsened as the population of Nga Pu Toru drained away – those who kept livestock left them untended, leaving them to fend for themselves.
Under the new agriculture plan for Nga Pu Toru and Mangaia government plans to work with the private sector to identify the best livestock to farm on each island as well as provide training for farmers on how to raise them.
Govt urged to assist construction industry
Wed
6 Jan
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With the construction industry in a slump government is being urged to pass on more major projects to those in the sector – the airport terminal upgrade pictured here in August is one example of how government can provide construction work to local companies during times when the market is suffering.
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The construction industry has been one of the main sectors of the economy to suffer this year according to information provided by banks in government’s half yearly fiscal and economic update.
The document reports that while most sectors of the economy seem to be faring well, especially the business and consumer sectors, there has been a lack of new construction in the market.
“Banks have indicated that the government should assist this sector through major construction projects on Rarotonga,” says the report published by the ministry of finance and economic management (MFEM) last week.
The update report covers June to November – essentially the first half of the 2009-10 financial year.
The banks also indicate that many customers have over-extended themselves through additional lending by other non-banking means such as hire purchase.
According to the report, the banks have urged that stronger consumer protection will be needed in future to help stem the problem.
“They understand that the market is too small for a proper credit bureau but legislation forcing all lenders to properly assess the customer’s ability to repay debt would be beneficial,” says the report.
Meanwhile, a decline in new bank loans over the past year due to uncertainty in the economy has contributed even more to the downturn in the construction industry, according to MFEM.
This year government has several infrastructure projects planned including the construction of new buildings, as well as harbour, road and water system upgrades.
Banker back after stint in Samoa
Wed
6 Jan
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Jackson Enua.
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Jackson Enua is back on our shores after being in Samoa for just over two years.
The banker has chosen to bring his skills in banking back to Rarotonga as part of the Westpac Avarua branch team and he will officially head consumer and financial services.
Enua has spent 27 years in banking and was the head of credit in Samoa from 2007 -- assessing the credit risks of big borrowers.
If his banking strategies match his career strategies, then that is small wonder.
“Ever since I was a kid growing up, I knew I wanted to have a successful life,” says Enua. “I have always set myself goals and timelines, I have always had a clear vision of where I want to be.”
Enua hails from Mauke and he started out as a mail boy at the very bank which he is now a part of leading. It was then the National Bank.
“When I was a mail boy, I said to myself, ‘I want to be a teller within a year’. You set the goal and then you go for it.”
It’s a formula which has seen Enua climb up the ladder- something he always intended to do. Yet he emphasises that if you don’t have passion for your job then you won’t get very far.
“Without commitment and passion for what you do -- what is the point? You are in the wrong job.”
But nothing comes easily. Enua admits that the first six months in Samoa were very difficult.
“I was trying to understand a new culture as well as how business worked. There was more staff and the population in Samoa is about 180,000 Work hours were very long and if you can imagine my desk,” he says, pointing to a large pile on the table. “There were stacks of files on my desk. It took hours of reading and research, sometimes I would take my work home. But after those first months, it started to flow and there was less pressure.”
Enua chose to return to Rarotonga because he is passionate about the place and it’s where he started his career. Family too is important, he says.
Of course he considered where he wanted to be before committing.
“After Samoa, I asked myself where to for Jackson? I had an opportunity to come back, this is where I started my career and I’m so happy to be back after two years away.”
Enua will also be responsible for staff coaching and training and general manager Rob Buick is thrilled to have him back.
“The experience gained in Samoa has obviously been great for Jackson,” says Buick. “But from a business perspective it’s also invaluable for both Westpac Avarua and Westpac Pacific.
“The feedback we receive from customers who have known him previously and in particular his levels of service, and to be able to pass on that type of behaviour in terms of service – it’s just fantastic to have him back on board, ” adds Buick.
Enua’s final piece of advice is one well practiced on his children.
“Nothing was handed to me on a plate. I work hard. You have to set your goals and achieve them. The resources you have now -- everything is at your fingertips these days -- including the internet. Everything is right out there for you- so use it.”
Still dancing at 100
Wed
6 Jan
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Mavis Alicia Scarborough, one hundred years old and still dancing.
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Keeping the katakata spirit alive at one hundred years of age, former resident of Rarotonga Mavis Scarborough is still doing the ura.
Scarborough made headlines in Auckland, New Zealand recently, crediting “marrying the right man” as part of the secret to a long happy life.
That man was William Scarborough and the couple spent 18 years together here in Rarotonga – the couple living in Nikao near the airport.
“It (dancing) comes naturally when you’re there all the time,” the centenarian was reported as saying in the East and Bays Courier.
Scarborough is credited by local resident Emily Russell, as extending her own interest in art.
“I am glad she is still living her life to the full,” says Russell adding that her friend was liked by everyone because she was always such a happy person.
The couple lived on Rarotonga in the late 1940s and throughout the 1950s.
Scarborough now resides in the Grace Joel Retirement
Village in St Heliers, Auckland.
Met service warns public to prepare
Wed
6 Jan
Cyclone season is upon us and the meteorological service is warning people to be prepared.
Meteorological service director Arona Ngari says history has shown the sea waters becomes warmer during this time of year.
Higher sea temperatures act as “fuel” in generating cyclones.
“We could see something in six to 12 weeks, based on the season temperatures,” says Ngari.
“It becomes critical when water temperatures [to the north of the country] are 27 degrees or higher. At the moment it’s hovering around 26 or 27 but it’s not stable.”
Sea temperature is measured at a depth of 50 to 100 metres.
In 2005 the country was affected by five cyclones, with Percy devastating Pukapuka and Nancy hitting Rarotonga.
Sea surge created by cyclone Meena also caused coastline damage on all of the Southern group islands.
Ngari warns this period may be “the calm before the storm” so people need to prepare for the worst.
“We’re in the ideal season, so people need to not be complacent but take extra precautions and be prepared.”
The cyclone season runs from November through to April.
Emergency Management Cook Islands encourages everyone including ministries and businesses to be prepared to respond.
“A few years have passed since we last experienced destructive winds and storm surge,” says EMCI training and education officer William Tuivaga.
“We encourage these people to speak with those who were there. Learn from locals and prepare well this season.
“There are sales people in hardware stores who are also able to assist in ensuring you get the right resources to help you better prepare,” he says.
Tuivaga says the best preparation is to not sit back and hope nothing happens but rather to get out there and prepare yourself, your family, your home and yard the best you can.
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