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SUPP: Cook islands Herald 30 OCtober 2013 news 2 PRESS STATEMENT From: Wilkie Rasmussen, Leader of the Opposition Norman George officially resigns from Cook Islands Party he long serving Member Cook Islands Party Constituency “Ultimately the Democratic Tatuava. of Parliament for the Committee of Teenui Mapumai, Party wants to win back both Mr Rasmussen said that with Tisland of Atiu Norman Denina Tuariki on the 24th seats in Atiu. And they were this positive development, he George met on Monday of October 2013. Mr George seats traditionally held by us.” will try and go to Atiu to hear morning with the Leader of informed Mr Rasmussen of this Mr Rasmussen continues to directly from the people there the Opposition and Democratic letter several weeks ago but stand by the position that he and get some directions from Party to discuss his return back Mr Rasmussen asked to cite and the Democratic Party held there. into the Democratic Party. the letter and says that this is a that Mr George must resign “At this stage, I’m agreeable He was accompanied in this positive development in so far as from the CIP and to stand for with Mr George working towards meeting by former Democratic Mr George’s plans to rejoin the the Demo in a by-election or the Demo’s ultimate goals Party MP Eugene Tauava who Democratic Party is concerned. general election Mr George unconditionally and I want him proposes to be the Demo Article 6 (1) (a) of the must win the nomination of the to be patient and take it step by running companion for Mr Constitution of the Cook Islands Democratic Party committee of step until the Democratic Party George at the next general Party provides that any member the constituency that he stands caucus and executives have full elections in just over a year’s of the Cook Islands Party wishing for. confidence in him”. time. to resign and if that member is But the Leader of the Mr George needs to respect Mr George presented Mr a registered financial member, Opposition said that he will my leadership and my style of Rasmussen with his official that member may do so by hold further discussions with management of the Democratic resignation letter from the Cook writing a letter to the Secretary his caucus and Party Executive Party and show loyalty to work Islands Party. This letter was of the Electorate Committee of on the new development and with my team towards winning signed by the Secretary of the the Constituency. indeed with Mr George and Mr the elections.

KARERE KI TE ITI TANGATA KUKI AIRANI Turanga matutu o te Demo

Na William Heather Jnr (Smiley), Papa Wilkie Rasmussen te Tinito ki tetai uipaanga. Tauturu Arataki O TE Tua Arataki o ta tatou party. Ki aku e maata roa te Akatanotano e te Democratic Te rekareka nei au i uipaanga a teia taeake e Party te akakite atu kit a au aere nei, kare ake rai au i Kia Orana kotou katoatoa turuturu e kite iti tangata kite ake me kua noo mai i te aroa maata o to tatou katoatoa e te Matutu nei ana aia ki te basileia i tetai Atua. E ra mataora teia te turanga o te Demo I epetoma, kore ake rai, oki noku no te mea te kite nei teia ra e kua papa te reira mai no te ori aere, nga mea au i te turanga maraoroi no te tamaki atu i roto i miniti ua ake kite kainga te o ta tatou putuputuanga te ikianga a teia openga rere akaou atu ra. Aue tau koia oki ko te Democratic mataiti ki mua e tu mai teia tu e. Party. Kua akamata ia nei me kore ra i roto i nga Te inangaro nei au i te teia putuputuanga e Papa marama mua o te mataiti tuku i te reo akapumaana Tom Davis e kua “turu ia 2015. I teia au tuatau nei e te akamaroiroi ki te au e Tangata Nekeaere,” i ta kua tuku mai to tatou au taeake anganga o te are te reo imene akakite anga taeake i te pae enua ki vao tunu varaoa o Turoa no te mai kia tatou. Kua tupu i te karere akamaroiroi ki mea kua ka teia ngtuare te Demo ki te maata i teia te Arataki e te akapapu mai I te a’i i teia openga nei e kua Kavamani mai nei ratou e ka autua tatou epetoma i topa ake nei. Te ana i te au tuatau i topa i teia ikianga e tu mai nei. akaaroa. Pera katoa kite ki muri. Kua arataki ia mai No reira kamaroiroi mai au ngutuare tei rokoia e te ana e Papa Pupuke Robati, tatou i Rarotonga nei. tumatetenga mate, na te Papa Terepai Maoate, Papa Kare au i mataora i te Atua e akapumaana mai ia Ropbert Wigmore e i teia rongo anga au e kua rere kotou katoatoa. Kia Orana tuatau kua kite tatou e ko akaou te Prime Minita ki e Kia Manuia. PB

Cook islands Herald 30 OCtober 2013 Political View 3 Democratic Party gearing up for General Elections By Wilkie Rasmussen, Leader of are people I respect very the Opposition much. t has been some time Secondly, Papa Kura now since I’ve made Strickland had now put some comments about pen to paper and wrote a I letter to the editor in Maori the status of the Democratic Party and where it is heading expressing his disappointment to. Most of my columns have of this Government. This is in always been about current addition to his calls to the local issues of the day that the radio chat programme where Government has failed to he told the country that he is address or that the public has now shifting his support to the expressed concern about. I’ve Democratic Party. talked about fires destroying This Tuesday however schools and people’s home and was a highlight for me. The the failure of this Government “maverick” MP Norman to stop the arsonist from George, who stood for the CIP setting houses on fire. As if on in the 2010 general elections cue we now hear of the Turoa came to see me and present his Bakery and Saltwater Café letter of resignation from the being gutted by fire destroying CIP which had been accepted the livelihoods of a number of by the electorate Secretary, a local people. I feel deeply for provision required under the them. I’ve also written about CIP constitution. Mr George depopulation, corruption, was a long serving Demo MP high taxation, pensioner being from Atiu, with intermittent taxed, and purse-seine fishing breaks in that membership and so on. and who was elected as a CIP In this column however, MP in 2006. Either he is or SWITCH ON WITH I wish to be a bit different he comes close to being the because of a couple of longest serving MP in the Cook Te Aponga Uira positive developments that Islands. had happened recently. First, I Mr George wants to join the heard on video footage which Demo team and while there Here comes summer was not aired on television may still be some issues to deal comments by Papa Tupui Ariki with over his intention, the and … cyclone season. Henry, son of Cook Islands positive development is that Party founder and first Premier his gesture of meeting with me of our country encouraging the and expressing his intention Grey Power Movement to vote without conditions helps the for the Democratic Party and Demo in gearing up for the next throw this Government out. general elections. Norman He said this at the meeting George presents to the Demos between Grey Power and the the capturing of two seats in Prime Minister Henry Puna Atiu. That excites me because over the failure of the PM to these two seats were looking deal with the pensioner’s tax difficult for the Demo’s to win. problems. Never before have With his unbreakable hold in I heard a Cook Islands PM Atiu I am very confident that heckled and generally talked those two seats will be for the down by the elderly, who Demos after the next general plucked up enough courage to elections. mobilize and protest to those Demo supporters should be in authority. Papa Pui was a prepared to gear up and get ready to battle and wrestle former Minister of the Crown Its summer and that means winds, stormy sea surges – and and a seasoned politician and away the Government from Father Christmas, holidays and possibly destruction. for someone like him to say Henry Puna and Mark Brown. relaxing with the family. Remember, its fun to look “vote the CIP out” signals Both these guys especially But summer is also cyclone ahead to festive times. But serious shifting of support the PM seems impervious to season. prepare your home and family as and loyalty. Papa Pui, Papa criticism and to faults and And when there is a best as you can to get through a Dan Kamana and Papa Kura failures of their own making. cyclone, you get high speed cyclone or two as well. Strickland, all ex CIP Ministers So let’s get moving. www.teaponga.com Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 news 4 BTIB lays formal complaint with Ombudsman By Charles Pitt investigate the matter and advise. of Rarotonga. The provision n Monday 4 November The Stakeholders group is of potable water to people is a the Chairman of the BTIB Response by open to new members with fundamental objective of the George Pitt wrote to the a significant interest and Government. O As the principles of the Ombudsman Mr Tearoa Tini to Richard Neves, representing key constituencies, lodge a complaint at the actions it currently comprises project I believe that both MOIP of the Fin Sec Mr Richard Neves 5 November representatives of: and MFEM are entitled to a alleging interference with the • Koutu Nui reasonably detailed explanation BTIB process. 2013 • Cook Islands Chamber of of why a decision has been made The issue relates to Mr Neves Thanks for the opportunity to Commerce to defer or decline the registration efforts to gain BTIB approval respond Charles. • Cook Islands Council of of Kew. Such a deferral comes at a as a foreign enterprise, for NZ The Te Mato Vai project was Women cost to the Crown and ultimately based company Kew Consulting announced at the Pacific Islands • Cook Islands Tourism the tax payer. to manage the $60 million water Forum hosted here in August Council I (and others) have explained project jointly funded by China, 2012. Cabinet has endorsed • Ministry of Agriculture directly to Mr Pitt and the New Zealand and the Cook the overall structure for the • Ministry of Education officials of BTIB the importance Islands. governance of the project. This • Ministry of Health of this project and the need for Pitt advised the Ombudsman involves the project Governance • Ministry of Internal objectivity in decision making. the BTIB was presently Group, a project steering group, Affairs Everyone involved in moving this reviewing the application by Kew a stakeholders group (for • National Environment project is conscious of the need Consulting. However, Pitt said consultation) . The Governance Service to consult with all people in the that in the past two weeks, Mr Group comprises representatives • Office of the Prime community on this project and Neves had taken it upon himself from the governments of the Minister move forward with it. That is why to personally manage the Cook Islands, New Zealand and • Ports Authority we have set up a formal meeting application and allegedly coerce Peoples Republic of China. • Te Aponga Uira group which incorporates a the BTIB CEO and the Board to The Project Steering Group • Te Ipukarea Society number of critical stakeholders approve the application without comprises representatives from: • Telecom Cook Islands and this group is scheduled to carrying its usual checks. • China Civil Engineering Both MOIP and MFEM are the meet regularly, I believe there Pitt also alleged Neves had Construction Corporation principles of this project and have been at least two meetings pressured Minister Hon Mark • Cook Islands Investment accountable for delivery, it is of the consultative group. Brown and the Prime Minister to Corporation these two institutions that have If the Chairman of the BTIB intervene. • Ministry of Finance and undertaken the procurement feels so aggrieved about Pitt said Neves actions Economic Management of a project management outfit my behaviour I would also were deplorable and showed • Ministry of Infrastructure to manage extensive civil works recommend he take up the disrespect for the functions of and Planning which will ultimately reinvigorate opportunity to complain to the the Board. • New Zealand High a water supply network which is Public Service Commissioner and He asked that the Ombudsman Commission old and does not serve the people his Minister. Outer islands consulted on Tax Review

ver the next week, MFEM common issues in the Pa the more we can boost local the only way we can effectively Economic Advisor James Enua that affect all islands. incomes, the better off all of our combat cost of living for our OWebb will be completing Cost of living, transport islands will be. There is always communities.” consultations with the Southern links, completion of capital more we can do – particularly “It would have been good if we Group on the proposed changes projects, labour shortages on infrastructure, transport and could have gone to the Northern in the Tax Review. James has and depopulation – these are planning. Ultimately it is about Group at the same time, but already visited Aitutaki, Mangaia all present in Rarotonga but improving the quality of life we are budget constrained and Atiu, and will be in Mauke can be exaggerated in smaller and providing viable economic and it was too expensive to and Mitiaro this coming week. communities.” Webb said. opportunities for each island charter our own flight with Public meetings have been “Many of these issues are and the country as a whole.” existing funding. The aim is to held in Mangaia and Atiu, and complex and have no easy fix, “Regarding the Tax Review: have these same discussions in a consultation with business but there are policy changes There are specific issues that the Northern Group when the owners in Aitutaki (a public we can make at the country some individuals have (often next opportunity arises to join meeting was held in Aitutaki level to try and address them outside of the scope of the Tax someone else’s mission.” earlier in the consultation across all islands. The Outer Review), and it’s important that “On a more personal note, process). Island Funding Formula they be heard and considered. I would like to thank the While on each island, James (first implemented in the Overall though, once the islands that have received me has also been consulting 2013-14 Budget) gives Island community understand the so far. I have a much stronger stakeholders in local Governments more control full changes, they are broadly appreciation of life on your governments about Budget and over their operational finances, supportive (especially for the islands and have been humbled economic development issues. and the Tax Review aims to increases to local pensions and by the kindness and generosity “Each of our islands is unique boost local incomes. The more personal income tax cuts). In of the people who live there.” and faces unique challenges. responsive Island Governments the long run, increasing incomes James Webb, Economic There are, however, many can be to their local needs, and by more than the price rises is Advisor PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 news 5 Finger prints a key factor in burglary case

By Charles Pitt Peace John Kenning, Georgina consider George’s application. prints found inside the house on’t point your finger at Williams and Mata Nooroa. Resuming at 2pm the Court could not be matched to Wade me!” The hearing proceeded announced that their decision because of the poor quality of D That short, sharp before an empty Court. on the application to recall the the prints. remark from Crown Solicitor One consolation was the air Crown’s earlier witness would be The Court adjourned at 12 Martha Henry to her more senior conditioning was working. reserved until Monday when the noon. colleague Norman George in the However, it was still warm Court resumed at 9am. The Court resumed after lunch, High Court last Friday morning enough for George to request The Court resumed on Monday at 1pm with the commencement preceded the re-commencement permission to remove his at 9.45am and it was announced of George’s case for the of the case involving the theft of jacket. The floor near the main that George’s application to defendant Wade. pearls from the Nikao residence door has still not been repaired recall an earlier witness had Chief JP John Kenning however, of Prime Minister Henry Puna for what must be more than a been declined. had some difficulty adjusting and Mrs Akaiti Puna in June last year now. It is a tripping hazard Throughout Monday, Police his chair; “Let me get this chair year. and should be fixed before continued to give evidence in right!” To which George quipped, Crown Solicitors Martha Henry someone is injured. relation to their investigation. “I don’t have a mechanism to and Cheryl King were appearing Resuming on Friday following Police allege Wade broke spring you out of it!” for the Police in their prosecution lunch, George told the Court he into the Puna home by way of George said the onus of proof of unemployed 27 yr old Fijian would be making application to removing three glass louvers to lay with the Crown to prove Indian William Atumaisa Nuku call four witnesses. This included gain entry then after a search he beyond reasonable doubt; Wade whom Police allege broke recalling an earlier Crown found and stole pearls belonging breaking in, entry –whether into the Puna home and stole a witness to give evidence as to to the Punas. Detective Senior achieved, and intent to steal-in quantity of black pearls. ownership of the pearls found at Sergeant Teroa, a 14 year veteran Wade’s mind. Police later found a quantity Wade’s residence. George said with Police, and a qualified George said there was no of pearls at Wade’s residence the Crown witness when giving finger print specialist, testified clear established point of entry. which they allege belong to the evidence earlier, did not have that the position of the finger Police thought the person had Punas. his prescription glasses with prints indicated the louvers had gone through the louvers. The Norman George represented him and so could not allegedly been opened from the outside. question was whether breaking Wade who initially resided with properly identify the ownership However, under often intense and entry was achieved? his wife’s family next door to the question. George said under cross examination by George, Wade proceeded to give his Puna house. Wade had come S3 of the Evidence Act 1968, He could not verify that the evidence. Wade did not deny to the Cook Islands in 2006. He a witness could be recalled to windows were the actual point the finger prints on the glass had lived next door to the Puna rebut evidence. of entry and conceded that louvers were his. He explained house for 2 years. After the George’s application was someone with a key could have the reasons why his prints came Police visited him in relation to opposed by Crown Solicitor gained entry. to be on the louvers and claimed the theft, Wade and his young Henry on several grounds, one Wade’s finger prints were he did not enter the premises. family at the request of his in- relating to procedure. She said found on three of the louvers. He denied stealing the pearls laws, moved to Takuvaine. there must be something new, Teroa testified that regarding and said he had the greatest Friday saw Police continue their fresh, but in this case there each of the prints found on the respect for Henry Puna who giving of evidence, at times under was nothing new, significantly louvers, there were 14-20 points once assisted him when his car torrential cross examination different to recall the witness. which matched Wade’s prints. would not start. from George himself a former Henry said the witness had said A peer review by an Auckland The Court adjourned at Police Detective, before a panel he could see. Police finger print specialist 1.45pm and will resume at 9am of three JPs; Chief Justice of the The Court adjourned to verified this. However, finger on Friday. Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 6 Our Frontpage model 3,000 finger prints in Police records By Charles Pitt specialist in the Cook Islands One of the unusual and Police. little known facts to emerge Peraua also disclosed that during the course of the the traditional method of Police case in the High Court identifying offenders by against William Wade which finger prints has changed. resumed on Monday (see Previously at least 12 points report on page 5), is the of identification were number of finger prints held needed. It has now been in Police records. accepted by the Pacific Finger prints form a crucial Finger Print Specialists part of the Police case Association that no pre- against Wade. determined number is During his evidence, needed. Other criteria are Police finger print specialist used such as print quality, Detective Senior Sergeant quantity, comparison, Roimata Peraua admitted analysis and verification by Police held 3,000 finger peer review. prints in their records. In Wade’s case, the peer Criminals will need to be review was done by another careful what they touch specialist with NZ Police in considering the expertise Auckland. held by Peraua. He is a 14 yr Although he was subjected Police veteran and is second to intense cross examination in charge of the Criminal by Wade’s defense lawyer Investigation Branch-CIB Norman George, a former NZ where he has been for trained Detective, George 9 years. Since 2003 he was moved to congratulate has been in charge of the Peraua on his achievements Forensics Portfolio. and qualifications. In 2005 he had completed Cook Islands Police may a crime officer’s course with not have all the forensic NZ Police. resources one may see on Our frontpage girl this week is 19 year old Hinano Wearing. In 2006 he completed 1 yr Police television shows like Hinano was born and raised here in Rarotonga and is currently of training in the science of CSI-Miami, but they do the working up at Whatever! Bar and Grill. She is a tattooist, finger prints. best with what little they do completed her apprenticeship in a tattoo parlor in NZ and In Vanuatu he completed have including salary levels is interested in starting a tattoo parlor here in Rarotonga, an advanced finger printing doing all sorts from Polynesian to contemporary. Check out that are shockingly low. It is our website www.ciherald.co.ck. and facebook page: www. methodology course time the Minister for Police facebook.com/ciherald conducted by Australian ensured these important Federal Police. personnel are properly Cook Islands He is the only finger print remunerated. Herald goes QR The Cook Islands Herald now has a QR (Quick Response) code. Correction Simply scan this code into your In the story on page 5 about the Court case involving Iphone or Smartphone and it will William Wade, the Police finger print specialist is automatically take you to the Herald Website in your phone’s named as Det. Snr Sgt Teroa. His name is actually Det. internet browser. Snr Sgt Roimata Peraua. PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 Opinion 7 EIA a potential gridlock for $60 million Te Mato Vai project he $60 million Te Mato proposals, Neves’ brand of him to stand down from this step aside and let experienced Vai (TMV) project is economics, (Nenevanomics) is decision.” (Dated 22 October) public works professional T highly unlikely to begin being contested by discernable At a BTIB meeting on Teariki Heather get on with in January 2014; in fact it members of the public and 24 October 2013 KEW’s the job. In the mean time could be delayed till June now the Te Mato Vai fire. application was deferred Neves needs to enroll at the 2014 or even longer due to With the additional fires not declined as Neves is Ministry of Culture in a crash the bungling management conjured up at the Ministry incorrectly propagating. Neves fast track course of indigenous by the Secretary of Finance of Marine Resources, our jet has since adopted bully boy Cook Island protocols and Richard Neves. Totally out of setting politicians unwisely and intimidation scaremonger customs, a matter he has no depth and lacking the capacity have become oblivious to tactics to force BTIB to regard for or sensitivity. Then of practical experience to the concerns of growing reconvene and approve KEW’s Neves ought to give priority drive the project Neves is discontent. application. Neve’s interference to preparing an Environment overcome by the enormity and Grey Power are planning to of BTIB’s due process is a Impact Assessment because complexity of the project. hold weekly protest assemblies shameful overstatement of his there are no exemptions Biggest mistake Neves made in public places to raise their self perceived imaginary powers for TMV as advised by the was to wrestle the project off matters of concern. which are not tolerated by the National Environment Service the Ministry of Infrastructure Neves may as well be BTIB. (NES) several times this earlier and Planning’s (MOIP) running the Democratic The whole purpose of BTIB’s this year. experienced public works campaign because voters are existence and integrity is to The time line of and approval Minister Teariki Heather. This being forcefully driven in that be independently autonomic for EIA consent for a project project is multilayered and will political direction by his gung of political interference with this size could take up to six only progress proportionally ho administration style. Neves the importance of upholding months or longer if the public’s to the capacity and skill is solely building a gridlock national interests. Under responses require further level of the self confessed that will seriously jeopardize their legislation BTIB has wide consultation. As a former principal Neves. While it may the whole project. ranging operational authority Chairman of the Environment be a scoop for Neves’ CV due With so many fingers in so a fact lost on by Neves who has Council, I recommend Neves to the cost and significance many pies the thinly spread, a self serving selective opinion start preparing the EIA now. of the fiscal donors this inexperienced Neves is of the BTIB’s legal frame work. It took the Tepaki Group project, mishandled, this becoming increasingly forceful Any concerns regarding KEW’s team of four people working internationally unprecedented in fast tracking the dawdling application is to be received nearly five months on an EIA endeavor will be a major nail TMV. Neves not once but twice from them not a government for the redevelopment of in the Cook Islands Party’s endeavored to have Business official or a politician. Why the Sheraton project before coffin at the next elections. Trade and Investment Board Neves has chosen to interfere it was submitted to the then Neves simply has bitten (BTIB) Chairman George Pitt with this protocol is evident he Environment Council for off a lot more than he removed or stood down from has disregard for the rules that consideration, it took more can chew, his compulsive being involved in the review do not suit him or serve his time before it was green addiction to control people process of foreign consultant purposes. A complaint is being lighted. and the administration of the company Kupa Engineering registered with the Office of EIA approval is not public sector is beginning to and Water Consultant Limited the Ombudsman according to retrospective and public magnify his shallow basis to (KEW) for foreign enterprise Pitt. responses can result in be responsible to oversee the registration. KEW are Serious consideration must significant delays much to the $60 million TMV. In the last contracted to provide a project be given as to whether Neves frustration of an applicant. year Neves has developed an management unit for the TMV continues as the principal Be warned Mr. Neves, a arsonistic fetish igniting fires valued at nearly $3 million. of TMV. The project hasn’t discontented public will that are reaping negative In a circulated letter that started and it has already gridlock the project when the political consequences, none included the Minister of become controversial and EIA is advertised for public of these are being extinguished Finance Mark Brown, Neves a contentious political hot consumption and review. Get and not one will generate made the ridiculous claim Pitt potato which Neves has no yourself a good navigating votes for the CIP at the next threatened Samoan Latu Kupa inclination how to defuse. It’s negotiator to ensure TMV is polling day. the KEW project manager. In a time Minister of MOIP Teariki not mazed or stalled in the Neves refuses to extinguish second widely circulated letter, Heather stepped up to the processing for approval. the pensioner’s back tax Neves stated “ Unfortunately plate, seize control of TMV and - George Pitt fire which shows signs of my request for the Chairman guide the project to fruition, Note: A copy of this opinion becoming a destructive bush to stand aside for the decision end of story. This is not a desk piece was forwarded to fire. By abolishing the two making process around this bound, pen pushing job, but a Richard Neves on Tuesday for year back tax, the Grey Power has been ignored, and in task for real men not boys. comment, however at time of will cease their gatherings of fact pilloried when I believe Neves ought to take the going to print Tuesday evening discontent. The tax reform I had good reason to request advice of eating humble pie and no response had been recieved. Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 8 NEWS No approval yet for Petrocean’s undersea pipeline By Charles Pitt ontrary to a statement been designated the lead agency by Chris Vaile in and the other parties will be Wednesday’s CI News consulted. He stressed that C no plans have been submitted that government had approved in principle a new undersea yet, no business plan and no fuel pipeline for Tahitian based feasibility study. Tou said the company Petrocean’s fuel tanker parties would meet including to offload fuel at Rarotonga, other technical experts, when Ports general manager Bim Tou there is something to study and told the Herald on Wednesday evaluate such as a feasibility morning that government had study. not given any approval as yet for He said he apologized to Triad such a proposal. if last week’s discussions with Tou explained that back on the other agencies had been 10 September 2013, Cabinet taken out of context. directed that; Tou said the anchorage would 1. A lead agency be likely cost about $2.5 million. designated to coordinate the Petrocean would be using a mid proposal from Petrocean for range tanker out from Singapore construction of an off-shore which is bigger than the coastal anchorage and over-reef size tankers used now which are undersea pipeline for discharge out of Suva. However he said it was premature to speculate on of fuel to pacific Energy in Nikao. Ports Authority General Manager - Bim Tou 2. Ports Authority, Tau, matters. Internal Affairs, CIIC and NES be He said Vaile was concerned monopoly issues that may see a concerns. Tou said it was likely the consulted. about the risk of damage to the replay of the Toagate saga. Bim Ministry of Marine Resources would Tou said Ports Authority has environmental and commercial/ acknowledged these were valid also be included in discussions. CITC Christmas promotion

n Wednesday CITC’s George George Oannounced the CITC Supermarket promotion for Christmas. There will be $20,000 worth of prizes up for grabs including for instance TV, Notebook and Smart Phone. There will be weekly draws and a final draw at 2pm on 28 December at the CITC Supermarket. Check out the details when you next call at the Supermarket. PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 9 NEWS Cook Islanders to raise national issues at international climate change forum delegation from the Cook climate risk insurance facility. It’s Islands will be amongst at the UNFCCC COP 19 that the Athe thousands attending global community will discuss the global climate change the options for risk management conference in Warsaw, Poland and reduction; risk sharing and this month. risk management mechanisms; The Cook Islands are one of and approaches for addressing the 195 Parties to the United rehabilitation measures. Nations Framework Convention When it comes to Climate on Climate Change. This year the Change Financing the Cook 19th Session of the UNFCCC will Islands is advocating for new see the Cook Islands focus on and additional climate financing several key issues including Loss as well as direct budget support and Damage, Climate Change using national systems and Financing and Climate Change procedures. Adaptation. “It’s at the international level “Being a cluster of small islands that the decisions are made in a vast ocean, the Cook Islands which flow onwards to impact are vulnerable to the adverse on the work that we carry impacts of climate change. Our out in our country to address vulnerability makes it crucial that climate change. By attending we strengthen our resilience to these meetings we ensure that the adverse impacts of climate our voice and concerns are change,” said Ms. Ana Tiraa, considered,” said Tiraa. Director of the Climate Change The delegation of eight under Division of the Office of the the Cook Islands badge are Prime Minister. funded externally, while four are Ana Tiraa - Delegation Leader Under the Loss and Damage from within the Cook Islands, support to the delegation; and For more information on this agenda, the Cook Islands are three are Cook Islanders based one delegate based overseas event please visit: www.unfccc.int supporting the call for the with a regional organisation provides legal counsel for the , should you wish to receive news development of an international and will provide advice and team. from the Cook Islands delegation The UNFCCC COP 19 will take at the climate change event please place in Warsaw, Poland from 11 contact Celine Dyer on celine. Re-shuffle of to 22 November, 2013. [email protected] portfolios ast Friday, the Prime Immigration; Marine Minister confirmed Resources; and Transport. L a reallocation of Under the new changes, he portfolio responsibilities to his has allocated the following: Ministers. Hon. Mark Brown The key changes include Seabed Minerals and Natural a shift of responsibility for Resources Seabed Minerals and Natural Head of State Resources to Minister Brown; Cook Islands Pearl Authority Internal Affairs to Minister Sports Glassie, Justice to Minister Hon. Teariki Heather Heather; and Environment to Justice Minister Turepu. Hon. Nandi Glassie The Cabinet reshuffle comes Ombudsman after the departure of Tom Internal Affairs Marsters as Deputy Prime Parliamentary Services Minister, and the appointment Hon. Kiriau Turepu of Kiriau Turepu as Minister for Environment Agriculture. Business Trade and The Prime Minister has Investment Board retained responsibility Other responsibilities for Foreign Affairs and remain unaffected. Kiriau Turepu Nandi Glassie PB

Biggest driving force behind the uptake of renewable energy Staffers at a leading overseas technology company did a quick poll in which they asked respondents who they thought was the biggest driving force behind the uptake of renewable energy. Almost half (49%) replied it should be Government, a quarter thought consumers (25%), and the remainder said business (26%).

Cook Islands Renewable Energy The main reason cited for why it was imperative that Government should get involved was climate change. In the Cook Islands, Government is showing the Unveiling the inverters for the new PV arrays at the Ministry of Education in January way with renewable energy this year developments while two main emissions and thus, offer the tides for electricity production renewable energy is more businesses on Rarotonga promise of zero-carbon electricity will lead to reduction in diesel expensive than conventional so have invested significantly in generation and a significant consumption (the current main some kind of financial incentive photovoltaic systems. Thanks to role in reducing greenhouse source of electricity generation programs must be laid out as net metering there is also a solid gas emissions to avoid climate on Rarotonga). is the case in the United States solar community on Rarotonga. change. Many supporters of renewable and Europe. Governments, so Here are some simple facts: no Greenhouse gases trap heat energy highlight the potential the argument goes, must lead matter how much we attempt to from the sun and warm the for job creation from investing by example and smooth the way save, the world is going to need planet’s surface which many in more renewable electricity to utilise the renewable energy more and more energy. At the people have blamed for causing generation and tout its sources that are available. same time, climate change is a rising seas and weird weather all improvement of the Cook Islands Businesses need to keep reality. Conventional energy around the globe. “green” image. developing and promoting generation from fossil fuels is the Renewable electricity It all sounds good, but at an products for utilising renewable biggest man-made contributor to generation is also attractive for individual or personal level, it’s energy and to train consumers to global warming, so developing government because it makes not difficult to see the resistance use them. renewable energy sources is the electricity generation system to real actions. Many people Equally important to the important. Why so? less reliant on diesel generated overseas share the poll opinion market economy is the real need Because renewable energy electricity and thus less exposed that the governments must take for products so that consumers generation technologies, in to volatility in global fuel markets. the leading role in renewable can take their stand by buying contrast to fossil fuels, produce Harnessing free sources of energy exploitation. them and utilising systems based no direct greenhouse gas energy like the sun, wind and And today, in most cases, on renewable energy.

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Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 11 NEWS News Briefs By TeRiu Woonton

Dance to raise funds Cook Is Association, the Cook Island students attending the The Upa Upa girls will be conducting a Dance fitness Victoria University unite in many ways to empower members fundraiser in support of Avatea Primary School. The fitness to succeed in their academic and professional development fundraiser will be held at the Tupapa Centre on Thursday the goals during their time at Victoria University while embracing 7th of October from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Entry fee is $7 per the unique Cook Islands way of doing things. The Cook Islands person, which includes light refreshments afterwards. Association at Victoria University do a number of academic, cultural, sporting and social events throughout the year. Runathon for fire This Saturday the 9th of November, Avatea School will be Sevens results holding a runathon starting at 7am in town, going towards Here are the results from the 2013 International Sevens Arorangi and then around the island in aid of the fire-stricken in Heaven Finals which took place on Saturday the 2nd of school. Donations to the school students will be very much November. In the shield final Rebels 25- Titikaveka Colts 7, appreciated. in the Bowl FinalAraura Enua 24-Shuzi Flying Dragons 43, in the plate final ICBH Arorangi Cowboys 5-General Transport Gala day to raise money for Tabusoro 40, and the CUP FINAL Teimurimotia Stallions 19- Bombay Hawks 26. Player of the tournament went to George school Taina from Bombay Hawks and top trie scrorer went to Ben This Friday the 8th of November the ex Nukutere College Partridge from Teimurimotia Stallions who scored 8 tries. Pupils Committee will be holding a gala day at the Nukutere College grounds, in aid of the rebuilding of Nukutere College. Tongans too good Chairperson of the ex pupils committee and one of the founding members of Nukutere College, Emma Williams, The final score for the game Tonga versus the Cook Islands says the gala will not only go towards Nukutere College but saw Tonga defeat the Cook Islands 22 to 16. The result was it will also help assist with Avatea Primary School. The gala cruel on the Cook Islands winger Chris Taripo, who scored day will include umu and BBQ food to last all day and spin the all his sides points and delighted the stadium-record crowd wheel. Over a period of time, the ex pupils will also be doing of 8,544 with his tries. Chris Taripo was awarded man of the a collection over a period of time, where each ex student will donate $100 towards Nukutere College. match award. Cook Islands next game is against Wales this Sunday the 10th of November. Last week the Cook Islands Wellington students unite played USA, where USA defeated the Cooks, 32 to 20. In an update from the Victoria University of Wellington, Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 12 NEWS Tivaevae Exhibition At the Punanga Nui Market on Wednesday morning Theresa Purea , Ina Bishop and some other mamas displayed some of their colourful Tivaevae. It’s Theresa’s first exhibition. - Nio Oti PB

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Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 15

News Briefs By TeRiu Woonton Fisheries training Four government employees from the Cook Islands and Samoa took up fellowship training attachments this week with the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, FFA. Saiasi Sarau, an Observer also doing monitoring, control and surveillance work at the Ministry of Marine and Latisha Maui, a vessel monitoring system assistant also with Ministry of Marine attended the training. “A key reason for the FFA fellowships is the high priority placed by member governments on building adequate Monitoring Control and Surveillance capacities in national Offshore Fisheries Divisions and Maritime areas. Our members rightly identify this as essential to their development agendas and we are very pleased to be able to contribute,” says FFA Director General James Movick. During their two-week intensive program with FFA, the fellows will gain inside knowledge of the agency’s work. Through personal mentorship with technical experts and advisors, they will also gain insights into how their daily work challenges at national level feed into the regional fisheries development agenda. The participants will have specially organised sessions across the management, operations, development, and corporate services divisions of the agency. They will also gain insights into IT developments and better understand how FFA works with their national Fisheries Information Management Systems. This is important for understanding how information technology helps countries monitor who is fishing in their Exclusive Economic Zones – and whether they are meeting license conditions or not. Cook Islands Students Association The annual Taokotaianga event was hosted by the Cook Is Association from the 30th of August to the 1st of September. 2007 was the last year that the Cook Is Association joined the event, and major highlights from the weekend included the visit and motivational speeches from Cook Islands PM Henry Puna and MP for the NZ National Party, Alfred Ngaro. The next annual gathering of the Taokotaianga will be held hosted by the Cook Islands Ass from the 8th to the 13th of July. It will feature seminars, cultural performances, speech and debate competitions and networking opportunities. This year also, Rachel Hockin, a dedicated student to Victoria University who was born and raised in the Cook Islands graced the runway of the 2013 world of wearable art show held in Wellington. She had created a garment inspired by Cook Is dance costumes. She commenced her studies at Victoria University in 2010 and is enrolled in a Master of Design Innovation. She is currently doing her thesis on Cook Islands dancing, focusing mainly on costumes and how it could fit into the exciting world of wearable technology. The committee for the Cook Is student Ass consists of Tepaeru Hermann as President, Tekura Moekaa Vice President, Kairangi Buchanan Secretary, Peru Kimiora- Treasurer, Communication Officers Alisha Allan Moetaua and Brienela Tauira and cultural officers Kate Ngatokorua and Tungane Nicholls. Mauke school gala success The Mauke school gala which was held early last month saw an astonishing amount of $3,775.50 being raised for the renovation of Mauke School. Tuakana Moetaua, Chairperson for Mauke School says the day was filled with fun activities and food, which was sponsored by generous businesses across Rarotonga and Mauke. Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 SPORT 16 Tupapa Grab First Win – But Only Just he Tupapa women’s team recorded their Tfirst victory of The Edgewater Resort and Spa round robin cup when they beat the young Te Ava Rau side on Saturday. It wasn’t all easy going for Tupapa though who edged out the win by just 2 wickets. Te Ava Rau batted their full 20 over’s with Naomi top scoring (25 not out). Tupapa managed to chase down Te Ava Rau’s score of 73 in the 13th over, with Claudia and Tia top scoring with 19 and 15 not out respectively. The win lifts Tupapa into 7th place on the table while Te Ava Rau occupy lonely last, winless this season.

Nikao Lose A Wicket vs Matavera in the Weekend During The Edgewater Resort & Spa Round Robin Cup TENDER

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNING TENDER RAROTONGA BRIDGES AND DRAINAGES Ngatipa Drainage Improvements - Contract No. C13/05 Tamoe Storm-water Drainage Improvements - Contract No. C13/06 Matavera Stream Crossing - Contract No. C13/08 Betela Bridge Upgrade - Contract No. C13/09

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning seeks tender proposals from Contractors for the above contracts. A copy of the Tender Document per contract number including specifications can be collected during work hours from the MOIP office in Arorangi. A non-refundable deposit of $100 will be required before the tender document is issued. Tenders close at 3pm on Friday, 15th November 2013, and must be submitted to the MOIP Office in Arorangi and in accordance with the requirements of the Tender Document. Tenders must be submitted in two sets hard copies inside a sealed envelope labeled “CONFIDENTIAL” and addressed to: The Secretary Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning Arorangi, Rarotonga, Cook Islands and subsequent markings below to include the following: Tenderers name, contact person, and contact details; contract name and number; and closing time and date. Enquiries to:Tenga Mana , Project Engineer Email: [email protected], Phone: +682 20321 PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 1 7 Economy driven by strong growth in tourism says ADB Bank The following is an extract from the Asia development Bank Macro- economic assessment of the Cook Islands, completed in June 2013. ECONOMY terms of trade movements to understand the nature and achieving growth targets, the A. Economic Conditions undermining the Cook Islands extent of the accommodation challenge will be to develop 13. The Cook Islands economy economy. constraint and the government’s a broader economic base to has registered positive growth 16. Policy formulation lacks policy response, if any. reduce the country’s reliance during the past two years. an appropriate evidence base. 18. The contribution of on tourism. Diversification of The economy has recovered Estimates of the importance agriculture and fisheries to the economy is needed to build from the setback caused by of the tourism industry to the the economy is under-valued. resilience to external shocks. the global economic crisis and Cook Islands economy have The primary industry sectors C. Employment and the preceding escalation in ranged between 60% and 90% are important for household Investment commodity prices. This recovery of GDP. While the mission consumption; in addition they 20. The workforce has been driven by strong growth believes that the 90% estimate substitute for some imports and participation rate is over 70%.1 in tourism. Economic growth was considerably overstates the contribute to export income. The 2011 census showed that marginally positive in FY2011 sector’s importance there is no The exclusion of household the employed population when GDP increased by 0.8%. In doubt that tourism is the leading production from GDP estimates totalled 6,938. Slightly over 8% FY2012, GDP increased by 5.3%. sector and dominates economic means that the contribution of of the currently active workforce The growth rate is expected activity. An accurate estimate of the primary industry sectors to indicated that they were to slow to 4.1% in FY2013 and the contribution of tourism— the economy is substantially unemployed. The relatively high continue to be positive through based, for example, on the under-valued. In reported participation rate is believed to the coming two years. The United Nations World Tourism GDP data the sectors are each reflect the combination of the private sector has expressed Organization (UNWTO Tourism estimated to contribute less out-migration of working age positive sentiments on the state satellite account recommended than 1.5% to the monetary adults and the high participation of the economy. methodological framework— economy which, a priori is rate of foreign workers. Aside 14. The economy closely tracks would strengthen tourism policy. very low. There is an urgent from the periodic censuses, the economic cycle in New 17. Tourist accommodation need to better understand the there is no systematic collection Zealand. New Zealand is the is approaching capacity. For value of this sector through and analysis of labour market Cook Islands’ major economic the past two years tourist quantifying the growth of the data. Other indicators could partner providing over 80% of accommodation has been fully sector over time, considering be used to show trends in the commodity imports and 60% booked during peak periods. what has underpinned the labour market. These include of tourist arrivals. Inflation Tourist arrival statistics indicate growth, and looking ahead contributors to the Cook Island’s in the Cook Islands follows that the numbers of arrivals in to the opportunities and the Superannuation Fund (CINSF) movements in New Zealand the shoulder and off-seasons risks for the sector’s future and the addition of question(s) prices, interest rates in the two are increasing. While this growth and contribution to on workforce VAT returns. countries are closely aligned and spread of arrivals is improving GDP. Currently efforts are being 1 Census 2011–Summary the number of tourist arrivals the utilization of existing made to diversify the economy Indicators table, p4. reflects the state of the New accommodation, if the forecast through the revival of the pearl 21. Over 40% of employed Zealand economy. Given these levels of growth are to be industry, the introduction of Cook Islanders work for the public circumstances macro indicators achieved, it will be necessary new crops and the elimination sector. Public sector employment for the New Zealand economy, to consider the means through of production/marketing has become increasingly which indicated growth of which tourist accommodation constraints but without the important for resident Cook 2.1% in 2013 and 2.6% in 2014, can be expanded, for example, broader understanding of the Islanders. Over the past decade, provide a useful guide to the through increasing the number sector that would provide most of the growth in the size of prospects for the Cook Islands of hotel rooms or increasing the lessons for policy makers the workforce has been in public economy. home stay availability. in encouraging the sector’s sector employment—which 15. The Cook Islands does Alternatively, accommodation growth in the future. Capacity has increased from 30% of the not implement an independent providers could introduce constraints and land tenure workforce in 2001, to 40% of monetary policy. The use of seasonal tariffs, increasing tariff issues are obvious challenges the workforce in 2011. At the the New Zealand dollar as its rates in the peak periods and that will require to be addressed. same time foreign workers have currency effectively eliminates reducing rates in low season— B. Economic Outlook become increasingly important the use of monetary policy as an bearing in mind that any increase 19. The economy is expected in the non-public sector, now instrument of macroeconomic in rates risks diverting tourists to grow over the next two years, accounting for over 37% of the management in the Cook to other holiday destinations. albeit at a slower rate than in non-public sector workforce. Islands. A key benefit of this New tourism infrastructure the previous two years. Current Given the reservation price of arrangement is that it avoids the development would have to estimates, are that real growth local labour, it seems likely that need to maintain an adequate take into account competing will fall to 1.4 % in FY2014 (from this trend will continue. Foreign level of foreign reserves to demand for scarce resources and 4.1% in 2013) due to a 24.8% workers fill the gap between protect the domestic currency. sustainability issues with respect reduction in capital investment demand and supply of labour The close linkage between to water supply and sanitation associated with the completion at the prevailing wage level. the Cook Islands and the New on the islands. An assessment of construction activity. Although While some Cook Islanders may Zealand economy also offsets of private sector plans for a strong performance of the be unemployed, that may be the potential risk of disparate increasing capacity is necessary tourism sector will be critical to Continued page 23 Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 18 From the South Pacific to Shandong – in Fifty Hours

18 golfers were in the field at Nanshan 1International Golf Club in China’s northerly Shandong province for the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship which took place from 24 October to 27 October 2013. No one travelled as far – rather, for as long – to get here as Kirk Tuaiti of the Cook Islands. Tuaiti left his home on Aitutaki, an atoll located in the outer reaches of the South Pacific islands, on Friday, flew to the main island of Rarotonga where he spent the night before catching his flight – and crossing the international date line in the process – to Auckland. A 13-hour transit in New Zealand’s most populous city was followed by a 12-hour connection to Guangzhou in southern China, where he waited another three hours before boarding one final flight for Qingdao. He was collected three hours later and journeyed the remaining 230km by car, arriving at the course on Monday afternoon Kirk Tuaiti after approximately 50 hours business, is his nation’s top Pacific Amateur Championship represented were; Fiji, PNG, of travel. player and was nominated to October 24 to 27, 60 made the Samoa (one finished 57th One would think Tuaiti might represent the archipelago at cut. equal), Solomon Islands. be somewhat jaded following the AAC following his win at Kirk Tuaiti from Aitutaki The Championship was his epic adventure, but he was the Rarotonga Championship representing the Cook Islands broadcast by TV to 150 countries having none of it. “It’s great to earlier this year. A three- did not make the cut but his reaching millions of viewers. be here; there’s no way I was handicapper with a powerful fellow Cook Islander Ned Organized by the Asia going to miss playing here,” he swing, Tuaiti is realistic about Howard who is based in the Bay Pacific Golf Confederation, the beamed following a practice his chances of winning, but of Plenty, NZ, made the final Masters Tournament and The round on Wednesday. says getting his hands on the field of 61. R&A, the Asia-Pacific Amateur Tuaiti was joined at Nanshan trophy isn’t the reason why he The final was played over Championship winner receives by his compatriot, New has travelled so far. 18 holes, on the par 72 course an invitation to the Masters the Zealand-based Ned Howard, “For us to be represented and four rounds were played. following year and, along with and was matter-of-fact about at this tournament is a huge Howard did not fare so well the runner(s)-up, advances to the golfing facilities in his deal for the Cook Islands,” said in round 1 finishing 10 over. International Final Qualifying homeland. Tuaiti. “Raising awareness and However, he fared better as the for The Open Championship. “The course I play – Aitutaki competing at an event of this final progressed. In round 2 he Each year, invitations for Golf Club – only has nine holes stature can only be positive for finished 5 over, in round 3 he the championship are sent and is about the size of the the growth of golf back home.” was again 5 over and in round 4 to the leading players from driving range here,” he said in On being reminded about the he finished 2 over. His total was the APGC-member countries. reference to Nanshan’s state- effort it took to get to Nanshan, 306 placing him 49th equal. Each country is automatically of-the-art training centre. “Our Tuaiti smiled: “It’s just as well I The tournament was won provided with two positions, greens are cut to the same like travelling,” he said. by Lee Chang Woo from Korea which are to be filled by their height as the tee boxes here, with a total of 281. Lee scored highest-ranked players from so it’s taking a bit of time to For the record an under 3 in his final round. the WAGR. If there is only one adjust.” By Charles Pitt Three Australian golfers or no players from a member Tuaiti, a well-built 25-year- Of the 118 players from finished in the top ten. country in the rankings, they old who grew up in Australia 34 countries in the field at All six NZ golfers made the are able to nominate one before returning to the Cook Nanshan International Golf cut with the best finisher or two players accordingly Islands to help out with Club in China’s northerly ending up 19th. provided the player/s have a his family’s fishing charter Shandong province for Asia- Other Pacific nations handicap of 5.4 or less. PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 OPINION 19 We are the future By Hareta Tiraa Passfield don’t know what it is, let rely on. ey guys, I hope me fill you in. At the bottom The money that we could everyone is of our sea we have these get from the Seabed mining H looking forward things called manganese could used for better health to the sevens. It should be nodules. They are valuable, facilities and better schools. awesome! I can’t wait to so valuable that companies It also could be used to see everyone’s costumes from all around the world pay back the debt that this and the dance that Nana want come to our waters country is in with countries and the gang are planning. and get these nodules. like China and New From what I’ve heard it’s The Cook Islands could get Zealand. It may replace our going to be great. I know millions, maybe billions, dependency on aid from a few people dancing and from this. But before that foreign countries. does take place it won’t I know how good they are, can happen we have to have In my own opinion, I am be before 2020 and that so I’m sure it’s going to be legislation in place, that will fully for seabed mining, means most of us will be fantastic! regulate the mining. Sure, but only if the companies out of school by then and I don’t know if you billions of dollars sounds follow the precautionary will be looking for jobs. The youngsters know about the great but we don’t know principle. Big words. If you mining may provide us with debate that our country the environmental impact don’t know what it is, it lots of job opportunities. is having with the Sea Bed it will have. There could be is a principle that means This should motivate us Mining. In fact I know a chance that the machines that, if the mining company to go over seas and get there are people out there that are going down there can’t show that their work qualifications so that we that do not know a thing could be destroying some will have zero or very little can come back work for the about the issue. Which is amazing creatures that impact on the environment, mines, instead of looking crazy. Seabed mining is a we don’t know anything then they can’t mine until overseas for jobs. huge issue. I didn’t know about? Who knows, they can. Our environment Some of us are going to much about it till I got the maybe there is a cure for is beautiful and I’d hate to be future leaders of this opportunity to take part in cancer or AIDS down there? see it ruined country, so we need to get a local debate a few weeks There are other potential You’re probably familiar with today’s issues. back. environmental impacts, like wondering what this has to It’s time we start caring, For those of you that maybe on our fish that we do with you? If the mining because we are the future. Bakery and café destroyed by fire fire was reported school fires. Fortunately fire, no matter how big or Hagai also raised concern to authorities at no-one was on the premises small the information may regarding burning bush fires A2.16am on Saturday and the biggest challenge for be to come forward to either and rubbish heaps that spiral morning, where a fire had them was the fact that the the fire safety of the Cook out of control when no one is broken out at the premises of fire was so close to the main Islands Police. The recent fires watching it. “After starting your Turoa Bakery and Saltwater road. It is understood that have affected the Rarotonga fire, stay with it ensure it is Café, which is located at the Turoa Bakery is closed on a Community and Hagai would under control and do not leave front of the building. Two Friday because of the Sabbath like to encourage businesses until it is out,” he encourages appliances from Puaikura and and while both the owners of and homeowners, especially the public. He says there have 3 from the Rescue Fire Service Turoa Bakery and Saltwater homes and businesses which been 24 callouts to bush fires managed to get to the scene Café were at the scene from are unmanned to keep an eye over the past month, the at approx 2.31am, and by the the beginning of the fire right out on the property or invest recent one which occurred just time they got to the scene, throughout the end, it was in security. It would also be before lunchtime on Monday the building had been well- too late for the fire fighters good timing for community in Titikaveka, where two Fire engulfed by the fire. With the to save anything. Hagai says watch teams to come together safety trucks were called to the efforts of the fire trucks that while local investigators are and revive the community scene to put the fire out. He says had to draft water from the still investigating the scene, watch scheme. He would also with water pressure relatively sea they managed to get the insurance investigators will like to extend a huge thank low during this period, it is fire under control at 3.30am. arrive tomorrow morning. At you to the Puaikura Volunteer important to consider the wind Willie Hagai, Deputy Chief this stage, the cause of the fire Brigade, the unsung heroes and its direction, your neighbor Fire Officer, says it is one of cannot be determined, but if who helped assist in putting and what you’re burning to biggest fires they have had to anyone has any information the fires out at Turoa Bakery prevent the fire from going out put out, apart from the recent regarding Saturday morning’s and Saltwater Café. of control. Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 RELIGIOUS VIEWS 20 How to experience God’s blessings (according to Psalm 128) By Senior Pastor John Tangi I have never met anyone who does not want to be blessed in life, and most importantly to be blessed by God! In Psalm 128 are important lessons that we that you’re planting produces could learn from if we are to be manifold because of Him! Your blessed by God. boss is pleased with your work There are two parts to this performance because you’re Psalm (1) is our attitude towards doing it honestly, faithfully, God which is to respect (or in the fear of the Lord, and in fear) Him, and to obey His laws accordance to His ways, His laws, (or walk in His ways), and (2) is His righteousness! v.3-4 speaks the blessings of God. In other about you and the family. It reads words if we do what God want “Your wife will be as fruitful as a us to do then He will bless us. grapevine, and just as an olive In the home environment if the tree is rich with olives, your children listen and do what their home will be rich with healthy parents ask them to do then children. That is how the Lord they will receive some form of will bless everyone who respects blessings. This is no different (fear) Him.” This is speaking from the things of God! In other about the joy, the peace, the words the Psalmist is saying respect, the love of God in the “Don’t expect God to bless you if home – the father, the mother, you don’t respect Him and obey the children and everyone else in His laws!” “No pain, no gain!” the home! It doesn’t mean that “There’s no such thing as free- life is plain-sailing, smooth, no! A lunch!” v.1 reads “The Lord will little argument now and then is bless you if you respect Him and expected because of our human obey His laws.” The question is nature. But what the Psalmist is ‘How do you respect God?’ The saying here is that, most of the answer is ‘We respect God by time life is good in the home! doing what is right in His sight!’ But this can only happened if we One important question is ‘What “…respect (fear) God and obey are the laws of God?’ The answer His laws (or follow His ways!)…” is, read your Bible and you will v.5 reads “I pray that the Lord find the laws of God! Anyway, will bless you from Zion and let here’s one of God’s laws “You Jerusalem prosper as long as you shall have no other gods before live.” This verse speaks about also speaking about the future will also bless our community, the Me!” (Exodus 20v.3) the city Jerusalem. For us today, generations in our nation, and future generations and also the Many people treat TV as their Jerusalem is the community the ‘peace of God ’in the Cook nation! Therefore, we need to God, and are too lazy to go to we are living in. Even the island Islands! As individuals, God will respect God and obey His laws! Church! Some spend too much we are living on – this is our bless you! As families, God will And do what is right in His sight! time doing things that takes Jerusalem. bless members of the families May you have a God blessed them away from God! Things Friends, I’m sure all of us want and those in the households! God week! Te Atua te aroa. that prevent them from reading to see things happening for the their Bible or praying to God, ‘good of all’ during our lifetime! or even singing to God! That is According to the Psalmist, this why the Psalmist said “The Lord will only happen if we “…respect will bless you if you respect Him (fear) God and obey His laws (or and obey His laws.” v.2 reads follow His ways!)…” v.6 reads “Your fields will produce, and “May you live long enough to see you will be happy and all will your grandchildren. Let’s pray go well.” This verse is speaking for peace in Israel.” This verse to us as individuals. The work is speaking about the future that you’re doing prosper generations and the peace in because you respect God and the nation of Israel. This verse is obey His laws. The root-crops PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 CHOOKS 21

From COCONUT ROUNDTABLE FAT CATS the roof? Number 2, Rumour Flat Cabinet directive 13/2634 proposes has it, Government A like the a $5 a litre charge on household water! is not sure how to apply flat rate? current water the proposed charge for level! water!

Mozzie

In the League game against Tonga, did you spot the Cookie player who was tackled, got up and facing the wrong direction, played the ball back to the Tongan side whereupon a Tongan player snapped the pill up, ran and scored a try! Good grief! And aren’t these professional players?

After going down three times in a row, our League boys should give up doing that the Demos Selina. Off to a chin wag at there’s been no mention of amending said 20 years of study and practice, a person energetic and physically sapping war chant the MP’s private, exclusive Club, the CPA law to exempt the NZ pension from tax. might be able to call himself a Master and dance before the game. Save it and only (Commonwealth Parliamentary Association). Why is that? Under the proposed reforms, depending on one final test. That is, if do it at the end-if they win! How did the chook know it really was local pensioners will get their pensions your opponent cannot see your blows MMMM? Why, he was wearing his Action increased to cope with the rise in VAT but coming, you are then considered a Tricky Dickie has almost completed Man leather jacket-of course! And he took NZ pensioners will not. Is that fair? Why Master. Real Gung Fu is not taught in the transition to full blown Cookie! with him the obligatory chilly bin-an old not just exempt all pensions whatever they public classrooms for a fee, it is handed Noticed how he is always wearing a Cookie tradition! are, from Tax? This government must be in down within Chinese families and the pareu shirt and jandals? Now he just very bad financial shape to have no other knowledge kept secret. needs the flower tucked behind an ear! The big environment international recourse but to go after the elderly. And Still, a full transformation may be some conference is on, the COP, but is our to do it at a time when MPs and officials Minister for Sport, Spark Down, needs to time off, after all, he is an Aussie and leader going? Unlikely. At the COP every continue to travel overseas does not set a leave the Cook Islands Rugby League team they bowl under arm! world leader gets about 3 minutes to say very good example of a government trying and return home. Since he has been with something. Even sleepy Jim Marurai had to be prudent. them, they have not won a single game! Is What’s going on in the MFEM building his 3 minutes of fame one year! Surely he jinxing the team? chooks? There seem to be more holes in our leader has something to say about Seen all that Kung Fu silliness on the the staff establishment than a block of Swiss climate change? Close on 20,000 people silver screen where fancy foo fighters Local chook asks will the EIA process cheese! Even the Aid team is down by four are expected to attend. He could say dish out 150 blows and kicks and leap for the big water project be speeded up if players! But the Mandarins could be scraping something about the climate change taking through the air in great Hollywood style Tricky Dickie takes over responsibility for the bottom of the barrel –they want to place within his own office where all three before the baddie actually goes down? EIAs from Toti’s lot! After all, Tricky Dickie draft in the Pukapuka PhD! policy staff have applied for jobs elsewhere! (Probably from exhaustion). In real seems to have taken over every other Chinese Gung Fu, only one hit from a important function to the extent of making Local chook lounging about at the master with both feet on the ground, several Heads almost redundant! Is Mac international terminal spotted Tupapa’s In all the rampant dodging, ducking, will suffice. The baddie does not get running MOIP or is Mac just another yes Mighty Magic Maggie Man of Action! MMMM weaving, swaying and diving by the PM up. And another thing, in real Gung Fu, man pandering to Tricky Dickie? Someone was boarding the big bird to wing his and tax officials over their mitts being there are no fancy Black Belts, sashes needs to grab Mac by the head and ask, way to the Kingdom of Tonga along with tied by law on taxing the NZ Pension, or any other fancy coloured belts. After “Mac! Are you there?” Cook Islands CITV Building Moss Road Editor: Charles L. Pitt Parekura, Rarotonga Columnist: HERALD PO Box 126 Rarotonga Norma Ngatamariki Tel: (682) 29 460 Graphic Artist:Nga Glassie Fax: (682) 21 907 Accounts/Deliveries: E mail: [email protected] Te Riu Woonton www.ciherald.co.ck Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEW 22

Rakei Toa boys plant trees he National Environment Service (NES) Education TUnit revitalized its tree planting program with Rakei Toa students last Friday. The 7 students and teacher, Merle Pukerua were part of an integration project carried out by the National Environment Service to plant native trees along the coastal areas which avoids land erosion. Students along with NES staff planted miro and tamanu trees thanks to Nikao MP, Ngamau Munokoa and her family who donated the seedlings to NES for this purpose. The tree-planting program took place across from the Nikao Maori School, at a vacant area near a stream, in which NES staff was able to educate the students about the importance of native trees and plant life to our country. Teacher, Merle Pukerua says, having her students work alongside NES staff is important not only is it educational but gives them an opportunity to care for the plants the students have named on a daily basis. Senior Education Officer, Matthew Rima says, the program will be extended to other schools on Rarotonga, with the next being this month with Rutaki School students. PB

Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 23 Economy driven by strong growth in tourism says ADB Bank From page 17 upgrade infrastructure water, because they choose not to work power, ports and roads. in some sectors. Foreign workers Currently however very few may also provide skills that are projects have been identified for not otherwise available. Their future public investment. The labour has a positive impact Government’s loan amortisation on growth but can give rise to fund is accumulating foreign issues of which the government reserves; in addition the CINSF should be cognizant—including could be expected to provide a disputes arising over contractual source of domestic investment conditions and the living and funds in the future. The role working conditions of foreign of public investment in a small workers vis-a-vis those of Cook country such as the Cook Islands Islanders. is significant and is a major driver 22. Additional private sector of economic development. investment may be needed to The implementation capacity support broad based growth. of government to undertake Incentives for private sector investment is however limited, investment are available, and there may be scope for but although private sector outsourcing investment through investment data are available public/private partnerships. from the Business Trade and 24. The current headline Investment Board (BTIB), inflation rate has stayed below they have yet to be compiled 2% over the last 2 years. The or analysed. The Mission is use of the New Zealand dollar as therefore unable to comment the country’s currency and the on the extent of private sector fact that the bulk of imports are investment required to meet from New Zealand, links inflation desired growth rates and or in the Cook Island to price whether such private sector movements in New Zealand. The investment levels are achievable. flow on effect of New Zealand Data on both domestic and prices is typically lagged by one foreign investment require period. Domestic cost factors to be compiled to assist in also affect the level of inflation. policy development and The Mission does not see any implementation. factors that would result in 23. Public investment in a pronounced change in the infrastructure and financial headline inflation rate from its reserves is increasing. The long run trend. In its December Cook Islands Government plans 2012 Monetary Policy Statement to increase its investment in the New Zealand Reserve Bank physical infrastructure over predicted a gradual rise in the the next three years, with inflation rate to its upper target investments reaching $51 range of 2%. The flow on effect million in FY2014/15. This level of price rises in New Zealand of investment is considered is likely to raise inflation in the necessary to develop and Cook Islands to around 2%.

PUBLIC NOTICE – FUEL TENDER 02/2013

Te Aponga Uira (TAU) invites tenders from qualified companies for fuel hosting and delivery services.

The tender documentation is available from TAU offices during business hours, and can also be emailed out on request. Completed tender forms and templates will be accepted by mail, email or hand delivery until 3pm, Monday 25 November 2013 Cook Islands time.

Contact Marlene Cuthers, PO Box 112, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone +682 20054, Fax +682 21944, email: marlene@ electricity.co.ck Cook islands Herald 06 November 2013 NEWS 24 PUBLIC NOTICE VACANCY

VAKA EIVA TRADE DAYS STALL SPACES AVAILABLE

When: Thursday 28th and Friday 29th November 2013 CROWN LAW – COOK ISLANDS Venue: Opposite Banana Court, Maire Nui Drive Junior Lawyer The Crown Law Office, Rarotonga is seeking to Limited space available for Food & Beverage and Arts & Crafts employ a Junior Crown Counsel. The position will Vendors. Reserve a stall now! suit a graduate or lawyer with up to 18 months PQE and excellent research and drafting skills. Criteria and Registration Forms available. The work is varied and across a broad range of Registrations close Wed 13th November, 3pm. legal issues involving the Crown. Contact: Trade and Marketing Staff, Taimata Allsworth or Te Tuhi Kelly. This is an opportunity to provide legal support to Government that is challenging and with plenty Phone: 24-296 or Email: [email protected] of potential to develop. for further information. Expressions of interest together with a full CV are VACANCY to be provided by 8 November 2013 to Dorothy Ivaiti, Crown Law Office in an envelope marked “Junior Lawyer vacancy’, PO Box 494, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands or by email to Dorothy. [email protected] SENIOR AUDIT MANAGER The Cook Islands Audit Office (CIAO) is mandated under SALE the Constitution of the Cook Islands to carry out the financial statement audits for all Crown funded agencies and special reviews and investigations into matters that arises in respect of Friday at the Punanga Nui the management of public resources which in its opinion justifies further investigation. Market at 9am

The Senior Audit Manager is responsible for the: Locally made hand • quality assurance of all Crown and Financial/SOE audit reports; painted off the shoulder • overall management of the Crown and Financial/SOE audit team; tops and dresses • strategic planning of the divisions work plans and training programmes; and • on-going enhancement of audit methodology and work programmes.

Preference will be given to applicants with the following qualities and qualifications: • tertiary qualification, specifically in the area of accounting, business or financial management; • ACA or CA qualification is highly recommended; • 5 – 8 years of relevant work experience or experience in a similar leadership role; • good knowledge and understanding of Government and business systems; • computer literacy; • excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to write effective reports.

Applications will be kept strictly confidential. Send covering letter and CV to: Anne McMahon: [email protected] Applications close 4pm Saturday, 9 November 2013