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HERALD26 March 2014 $2 (incl VAT)

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Edgewater Cakes Enquiries call us on 25435 extn 7010 Sunset BarBQs at the Shipwreck Hut Saturday Seafood menu with Jake Numanga on the Ukulele 6pm Tuesday Sunset BBQ with Garth Young on Piano 6pm Thursday Sunset Cocktails with Rudy Aquino Congratulations to 5.30pm-7.30pm Woman of the Month, Reservations required 22 166 Peka Takai George Aroa Beachside Inn, Betela who is pictured here Great Food, Great Entertainment wearing earrings, a necklace and bracelet from Goldmine Always the best selection, best price & best service at Goldmine! POWERBALL RESULTS Drawn: 20/3/14 Draw num: 931 PB

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SUPP: OPEN LETTER TO THE DEPUTY PM TEARIKI HEATHER QUESTION 1: What is your interpretation of theStanding Orders of the Parliament of the Cook Islands. PART XLV CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MEMBERS? 394. The Principles- (4) Proper Exercise of Power: Every member shall-(c) Exercise any influence or authority obtained from Public Office only to advance the public interest and where any potential and actual conflict of interest arises whether in the member’s private, financial, pecuniary or any interest the member shall be required to declare that interest and take any steps to remove the conflict or withdraw from the particular process of transaction. 395. Special Requirements for Ministers and Other Officeholders- Every member who holds parliamentary office of any kind is required to adhere strictly tothe principles outlined above and shall not under any circumstances undertake any decision or exert influence in any form whatsoever in respect of a matter in which the Member will derive personal gain or benefit. QUESTION 2: Have you read all the Principles listed in 394? QUESTION 3: If you have, why did you behave in such a disrespectful manner on Radio Cook Islands on Friday the 7th March to an individual and not observe with dignity (3) Respect for all Persons ? QUESTION 4: Is it not an obvious perception a potential conflict of interest exists because as the Minister of Infrastructure Cook Islands (ICI) you are the administrator and driver of the Cook Islands biggest monetary project Te Mato Vai, your company T&M Heather Ltd are the likely biggest financial beneficiary to the tune of many millions of dollars? QUESTION 5: Is your company T&M Heather Ltd going to tender for any of the TMV contracts? QUESTION 6: Has your company T&M Heather Ltd been in discussions with CCECC negotiating costs and pricing of work to be contracted? QUESTION 7: Do you understand what the illegal practise of INSIDER TRADING is?

Mr Teariki Heather, When you were elected to Parliament you took a solemn Oath before this Nation and God to uphold its laws. Demonstrate to us you are a man of HONOUR and INTEGRITY. If you are the Christian you proclaim you are, you know what you must do. Either withdraw your company T&M Heather Ltd from bidding for any TMV contracts or resign from being the Minister of ICI and rescue yourself from all public or Parliamentary debates regarding potential conflicts of interest and the public perception you are a self enriching politician seriously damaging your ambition of being the Prime Minister. Your friend George Pitt PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 news 3 Care giver slams CIP Government ight now Ruta Strickland is of parents and children is the one unhappy woman with responsibility of the immediate Rjustified reasons, six weeks family and they should endeavour after her father passed away to organize themselves to meet she still fumes over the way these obligations.” government wriggled their way The Administrative Policies out of approving her application for the Care-Givers Allowance for the Care-Givers Allowance. state “Individuals within the After witnessing the public community who look after outcry over the CIP government’s and care for those and care for harsh treatment of pensioners, those needy beneficiaries can be her own experience has an adult member of the same reinforced in her own mind the household whom the very sick claims the government is harsh and or the permanently disabled and doesn’t care about the beneficiary live with.” suffering of the people are real. Nowhere in the policies does In November 2012 she it state family members are returned from Australia to care excluded from receiving the for her father the late Papa Care-Givers Allowance, this has Kura Strickland who had been angered Ruta Strickland. diagnosed with prostate cancer. In the second paragraph a After over a year as her father’s further reason states, “Papa care giver, on 5 December 2013 Kura is over the age of 70 and Ruta applied for the Ministry is receiving the higher rate at of Internal Affairs (MIA) Care which this was intended for. Givers Allowance of $75 per The recommendation is that Ruta Strickland with the letter of decline and the policy fortnight. By now Ruta was also Papa Kura’s pension should statement the care giver for her sick 63 year assist with the expenses of the old brother George, on the 31 caregiver.” January 2014, 84 year old Papa “Thirdly, Papa Kura has family Kura passed away in her arms, support that should share the SWITCH ON WITH incidentally it was the same day responsibility and cost of his she received a reply from the care. He is not without means to Te Aponga Uira Internal Affairs stating they had assist him receive proper care.” declined her application for the “At Dad’s family service Tracking Mike... Allowance. Minister Glassie attended and Ruta explains she only applied I told him my application was for the Allowance after she had declined and he assured me he spoken to the Minister Nandi would look into it and since then Glassie and staff at MIA. “I I’ve heard nothing from anyone,” wasn’t working as I was full time said Ruta. “When I applied for as a care giver for Dad and my the Allowance Dad had very brother and it was only after limited time to go, it wasn’t as I used all my own resources if it would be a huge amount that some friends suggested I of money, just $37.50 cents a should apply for some financial week. It took seven weeks to assistance.” inform me of their decision and She said everyone she spoke they found the most ridiculous Tropical Cyclone Mike didn’t last a day after it was to at MIA was positive and reasons to say no, what a way born last week. helpful till her application was to treat people, what kind of Although it was a squib barely reaching category brought before the Destitute government is this?” 2, what lessons did we learn? and Infirm Committee which “My father served the CIP Probably the biggest insight was how quickly a includes Health secretary Liz as a member of Parliament cyclone can form. Mike developed near Aitutaki Iro and MIA secretary Bredina for many years and this is the on Wednesday afternoon, moved south east past Drollet which is responsible for unbelievable treatment he Rarotonga and dissipated 1,145 km south west of the approval of applications. gets, our family are deeply Papeete, all in the space of 24 hours. They met on two occasions to disappointed with Minister And how many people were caught out at the consider Ruta’s application, 26 Glassie, I want to thank Aunty last minute dashing home from work to clear their November and 19 December Nga Teau for the help but the yards of stuff that could be tossed about by winds 2013. rest don’t have a heart for the and gale? Or stopping off at the supermarket to buy The reasons stated as to why old people, this government is torches and other basic supplies? her application was declined has cruel and should be ashamed If nothing else, Mike was a good wakeup call for us infuriated Kura and her family. of themselves, I’m sorry I voted to be prepared in case of a cyclone in the remaining “1. Immediate family members for them in 2010, not anymore,” 5 weeks of the current season. should not be paid for looking concluded Ruta Strickland. www.teaponga.com after family members. The care - George Pitt Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 Opinion 4 Politics ignored as Manihiki residents survive on own resources t was in November 2013 when comforts of life. Going without Manihiki and Rakahanga a lot of processed food has Ilast saw a visiting vessel and also improved their heath. The such a rare occasion is expected lack of sugar and fizzy drinks this week. With nearly every is substituted for by healthy imported goods well consumed coconut juice and natural sugars in quick time newly arrived from home grown fruits and cargo gets absorbed by the vegetables. backlogged vacuum. Reports One resident said they from the northern islands are have given up relying on their critical of the worst shipping politician to help them, “We service by any government. are surviving without their Residents report both islands empty promises, our member ran out of just about everything the Prime Minister Puna didn’t before Christmas. Thankful they bother having a public meeting have a more regular service the last time he visited because from Air Rarotonga cargo space only the government employees is a luxury that takes skilful attend them not the rest of us, negotiating along with using we can’t be bothered listening connections to ensure basic to their rubbish.” items such as toilet paper and With political expectations soap get freighted. at an all time low point, one Passengers are quickly without perceived necessities and passengers to Pukapuka household had a united message identified then pressured to many Rarotongans take for who don’t have a current for their MP, “There’s a lot that include desired cargo is included granted is embraced as normal. air service due to airport goes on here that he knows as theirs. Everything becomes If life is tough on Manihiki it is reinstatement. Taio said the nothing about, he won’t have urgent when a plane heads north even tougher on Rakahanga declining population had much achievements to point to and not all get what they want which has no airport. reduced the profitable trips to get anyone excited about voting through the sheer lack of freight Rakahangans generally rely on the North and was risky during for him again. We are out of capacity, when the demand Manahiki for supplies. It is little the cyclone season as rough sight and out of mind and that’s out strips the ability to supply wonder both islands continue to weather sometimes prohibited what he will get back.” frustrations are expected. farewell residents. unloading cargo forcing it to be Over 10 years ago government Life in Manihiki is tough and Residents have got past returned. started to draw up a physical certainly isn’t for the faint being disappointed when their The irregular shipping has plan for a purpose built boat hearted. Last week a prominent to service the outer islands lady passed away and despite Residents have got past being which can adequately meet the the lack of food a worthy feast disappointed when their ordered cargo and passenger demands of local produce was enjoyed of our sister islands and be run during the celebration of her cargo doesn’t arrive due to limited efficiently. Where is that plan? life. Communal sharing is an The person who oversaw that integral part of sustainability in freight space. work is the current secretary to the North. Everyone needs each Cabinet. One wonders if Cabinet other regardless of differences, ordered cargo doesn’t arrive cost the government thousands is aware of this or could not care it’s a vital cog in the wheel of due to limited freight space. of dollars in emergency delivery less. survival. Somehow a group from Most will get some of their of fuel and medical supplies. We have been told the cost Rakahanga managed to scrape cargo said Josia Taio, “we have Some remaining residents is between $7-10m. How come together enough fuel for the trip 40 drums of fuel on this trip, claimed more people would stay other countries like Samoa, to Manihiki to attend the funeral no one will get nothing, we if the daily grind of life wasn’t Tonga and even little Tokelau and would need to rely on good try to prioritise the cargo fairly so tedious and strenuous, many can get aid money to buy will to collect enough fuel for so that the more urgent gets are influenced by those who boats for them but we can’t? the return trip. delivered.” 25 passengers are have already left. However, we seem to have little Northerners don’t talk about travelling north and there will Some of those that are problem getting $80m for a new food security they practise be a full complement returning. hanging in there have become water supply for Rarotonga that and live it every day. Prudence Taio said they will return industrious survivors who by will be a millstone around the in every sense of the word to the North straight away to being clever and hard working, country’s collective neck to the is observed vigilantly, going deliver the rest of the cargo have created their own benefit of a few. -George Pitt PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 NEWS 5 Solar panels to dominate landscape and increase deficit f Prime Minister Henry Puna ever got to see his unrealistic Ivision of 100 percent renewable energy by 2020 Rarotonga will be engulfed by solar panels. Starting next month about 5,000 panels will be installed at the Rarotonga International Airport at a cost of $3.3 million, fully funded by the New Zealand government. This will be the biggest solar installation in the Cook Islands to date and is claimed by government to reduce diesel imports of 370,000 litres per year. Once connected to the Te Aponga grid the installation will provide five percent of Rarotonga’s annual electricity generation. We are told that this all represents a saving of nearly $530,000 presumably to T Aponga. With less fossil fuel imported and the outer Islands converting to solar generated electricity, the need for two fuel importers may be too competitive for both to new energy tax. the skills to turn the red into black. of integrating diesel generation profitably survive. The Airport installation will In addition to Neves revenue as backup with the renewable All this represents a substantial reduce MFEMs fuel based revenue problem, which won’t be his from energy means of creating and loss of fuel taxes and levies by nearly $63,000 from the July this year when his contract ends distributing electricity. To this in revenue for the financial 370,000 litres of fuel savings. The there will be the ascetic eyesore date there is no evidence a global secretary Richard Neves at the savings of fuel for the outer Islands to tourists of solar panels littering model exists so once again Puna’s Ministry of Finance and Economic could deprive MFEM of as much the landscape. Up to 100,000 government can become a world’s Management (MFEM) Millions of as $3 million. It is highly unlikely solar panels will be required to first and build such a generation dollars will be needed to be found Neves has calculated the revenue provide the energy for 100 percent portal with Te Aponga becoming from alternative sources but with loss resulting in the conversion to conversion to renewable energy. a broker of electricity. Total cost of the lack of innovation and business renewable energy let alone how The current Te Aponga generation the 100 percent conversion with a acumen in MFEM don’t expect he will generate its replacement. station in the Avatiu valley will hybrid generation and distribution Neves to come up with anything Neves deficit account shows no become obsolete requiring a new network will be a $180 million plus but increased electricity tariffs or a signs of shrinkage nor does he have hybrid generation plant capable extravaganza. -George Pitt Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 NEWS 6 Northern Group want to be included in the Marae Moana Marine Park project here is overwhelming that the Pae Tokerau has the most support from the Northern abundant fishstocks of the Cook TGroup for the moemoe’a of Islands as as explained by marine a marine park and they want to be biologist, Dr Teina Rongo. However, included. That is the finding by the it was his explanation of what El marine park steering committee Nino and La Nina mean and their delegates during their Pae Tokerau effects on weather patterns. In consultation visits from 17 February turn, the weather patterns affect to 3 March 2014. where the fishstocks are most The team were there to seek abundant and told them that the views of the people of the there would need to be scientific islands of Manihiki, Rakahanga research that could be carried and Penrhyn, but not Pukapuka out by our people and the results Meeting on Penryhn or Nassau owing to the airport could assist them and government be left out. They even have their were shocked but delighted by the closure. Team members were in making decisions as to fisheries own preferred name for the marine petition. Tou Travel Ariki, Uirangi Mataiapo, and marine conservation. park, the KORO MOANA and were Message from Penrhyn Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, Kevin Iro, They were very impressed by the undeterred that Cabinet have The people of Mangarongaro Jacqui Evans and Dr Teina Rongo proposal by the House of Ariki and already chosen the name MARAE agree with the views of those in and all meetings and interviews Koutu Nui that the boundaries of MOANA in a naming competition. Rakahanga and Manihiki and want were digitally recorded on audio- each island be extended from only Manihiki - Laptops in exchange to be part of the Marae Moana. visual footage. 12 miles to 50 miles exclusion zone for fishstocks? They told the team that fish is not KARERE FROM THE PA ENUA for local fishing in order to improve The people of Manihiki are not so abundant when they fish, nor is TOKERAU food security for each island to try to impressed with receiving laptops the size of the fish as large. In the All islands were fascinated by the ensure that they do not suffer effects for school children – which they past, they would catch large fish presentations on the enormous from overfishing of fishstocks. The say could break down in months (20-30kg) whereas nowadays the size of the EEZ on the Seasketch traditional leaders also suggested a - in exchange for fish. They feel it fish is only about three kg in weight. map as explained by Kevin Iro but further 50 miles buffer zone in order is not a fair reward for fishing the Dr Teina Rongo joked that he were less than impressed with the to try and protect island from the mekameka of their part of the EEZ would go and check the state of fact that they are not (yet) included effects of seabed mining in future. and the benefits go to government their fishing himself, rather than in the marine park and want to be Each island wanted that protection based in Rarotonga. The consensus accepting their views, which are included. for them – if that should even come is that it would be fairer if they not reliable. Teina and the team Kevin explained there are many to pass under the marine park were to be given a slice of the pie went fishing and their catch size in different views and encouraged zonings in future. from licence fees that have added fact did confirm what the people everyone to check the Seasketch Quite a number say they have several millions to government were saying. website for their own input as to seen the lights of the fishing vessels coffers. That is not the case at the The possibility of pirate fishing boundaries and that will be taken at night, which they say show moment. ships hopping over from the on board when designing the zones that the fleets are too close to The people of Manihiki are so high seas pockets on the borders of the marine park. Kevin explained their island and hinder their food impressed that when the team between us and other Pacific that 90pc of the fish caught in security. Snippets from Rakahanga returned from their trip, they were nations was also enlightening. Cook Islands waters is in fact from The message from Rakahanga is presented with a signed petition Having a marine park would the north because that is where that while they can understand the that they had compiled in the hope be beneficial in managing and fishstocks are most abundant. reasons given as to why the marine that the team would present it to monitoring our EEZ Release by The people of all three islands park should start in the south, Cabinet. The team say the petition House of Ariki-Koutu Nui by Itaata were delighted to hear it confirmed nevertheless, they do not want to was wholly unsolicited and they Rangatira, Noeline Browne PB

Woman of the Month Congratulations to Mrs Peka Takai George ongratulations to Mrs PekaCongratulationsTina given her personal satisfaction. Kauvai Takai George our woman Our woman of the month began Cof this month, who is her years of education at Avarua participating in tennis, their life together starting closely involved in the Tutakimoa Primary School and Tereora swimming and netball their family. Vainetini, Youth and Community. College before working with the where Kauvai was elected as In 1978 Tina moved Peka is closely involved in the National Bank of New Zealand one of the members of the back to her homeland, Tutakimoa Vainetini, Youth and after leaving Tereora College, for first netball team to travel Rarotonga, where she Community groups 3 years. She then left for Australia to Noumea in 1966 bringing has dutifully remained in She grew up in Tutakimoa and for OE, returned after a year and home gold. the same dental clinic till was involved in the Brownies, worked for the Telecom Postal With a desperate need to present. Remembering her Girl Guides ,CICC Youth, Ekalesia Services. From there moved to escape to the bright lights careers beginnings Tina and Vainetini, she is currently the Airport Authority where and bustling rat race of explains that the early days 1st Councilor of the District she worked for 26 years before New Zealand Kauvai made were tough going, “we relief Society for the LDS Avarua taking retirement last year and is the definitive decision to didn’t have the modern District. now self employed. become a dental nurse, as gadgets that we have now, Peka was born on 31st May Peka grew up in the Cook she was convinced that was when I started we had pedal 1960 in Rakahanga, her Father is Island Christian Church, today her fail proof ticket to the operated gear, ohh gosh,” Munokoa Takai and her Mother is is an active member of the land of the long white cloud. she jokes, “My legs were so Porohu Takai, and has 3 brothers Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Once finished her schooling fit!” and 5 Sisters. Peka is married yo Day Saints, 1st Councilor of the Kauvai enrolled moving to At one point her dental Ben Tangatakino George and District Relief Society, Former Wellington in the winter of chair blew up on her mid 1969 to train as a School practice, smoke tendrils they have 3 beautiful children. President for Avarua Relief Dental Nurse, “I was so Her interests are Cultural and Society, Secretary for the World filling the small room. happy,” says Kauvai fondly Since the last incident the Cook Islands Dance and with Day of Prayer Committee and of her humble beginnings, her beautiful long black hair and the current Vice President of the clinic has seen a welcomed “my dream had finally come upgrade, left with no other dancing skills, she was dubbed Cook Islands National Council true, I thought I needed to option but to fork out as Female Dancer of the year of Women representing the Pa see the big world and here $25000 for a replacement. for several years which has seen Tokerau. In sports, Peka played I was.” her represent the Cook Islands Netball for Takuvaine Netball In her later years Kauvai’s Kauvai’s move to involvement with her in Cultural events around the Club during her Teen years and Wellington proved to be Church community, namely world. She has promoted the took up squash, where she more challenging than she Ngatangiia Assembly of Cook Islands with the Te Iva represented the Cook Islands had anticipated the brutal God, has greatly increased, Maori Dance Troupe with their at the Squash Oceania Champs chilling winter quickly sent “when you are heading worldFor her tours. continuous She describes work in her the dentalin Fiji, industry New Caledonia, and generous Samoa Tina to tears, “I cried my down hill you really start to trip to Chinaspirit with Tina Kauvai the Te is Iva our Womanand the of Minithe Month. Pacific Games eyes out,” Tina laughs, “It think about what happens MaoriBy Maria Dance Tanner Troupe as one of here in Rarotonga in 2009. took me a month to get over when you leave this world,” her major highlights to date. She also won Cook Islands the weather, I thought to she says in her light hearted FromCongratulations 2006-2011- she to assisted our Women’ssource of Squashher livelihood Champs for for myself what the heck am I manner. As an ordained withwoman the Tongarevaof the Dance month Group severalthe past years 40 years.in the 1990’s and doing in Wellington, I really Pastor and Associate Pastor andErnestine travelled Moeroa to China Kauvai for a wasArriving President as the for thefirst Avarua born wasn’t use to it!” of the Ngatangiia AOG Tina promotion(nee Williams) trip in or2007. otherwise Squashon an Clubearly and August Secretary in the for Six months down the Kauvai also runs a women’s commonlyShe is involved referred in the to Maire as severalyear of years. 1949 to the proud track Kauvai had become ministry group and always MaevaTina Kauvai. Nui every year as a judge parentsWith a number of Aporo of achievements Henry and accustomed to the uncanny aims to help her community andInside also the in thetiny, Cook lime Islandsgreen throughoutMatangaro theWilliams, years in CookTina New Zealand climate and in any way she can. Internationaldental office and Competitionstuffed Islandsand her family dancing, quickly education, grew only two short years later “I want to make an impact judging.between the Tereora communityto a household involvement that she and graduated as a qualified in the lives of people cafeteriaPeka says thisTina has contributedKauvai, churchshared groupwith 7 contribution, other younger she dental nurse in the year around me, family, church, woman of the month for siblings. Tina grew up in of 1971. Relocating to community and the nation. I to her advancement and counts that and her family as AucklandCongratulations Kauvai worked to in Mrs Peka Takai George, experienceDecember, as a polishesjudge as wellthe as mostRarotonga important attending assets in Avaruaher life. want to use the gifts and the dental forceps and lines School before she finished the City of sailsWoman for 6of long the Monthabilities of thatMarch God have given drills on a tray before her secondary schooling years and during that time me to contribute towards sharing with us her story,2014 at Tereora Woman College. of During the met Month her husband Sponsors: Tuata our people and hopefully for Kauvai this office and her years at Tereora Tina Kauvai, where together they help them in a small or big displayed panache for sports lay down the foundations of its patients1. Apii Urlichhave been& Aunty the Larry 2.Pitt Media Group CITV/CI Herald 3. Bank of Cook Islandsway.” & Wall of Fame. 4.Aquarius Rarotonga Hotel2012 & Restaurant Woman 5. Temu of &the Lesley Month Okotai / FarmSponsors: Direct Manihiki Black Pearls 6. Fuji Image / Colin & Tatiana Burns - Production of photo 7. Staircase Restaurant - Sisi & Mann Short - voucher 8. Nga 1. NelioApii Urlich- massage (Flowers) Therapist /(Eis 9 Katu). Martha Aunty Makimare Larry @ - TivaivaiVonnias Sponsorship 2. Pitt Media 10 . AquariusGroup CITV/ Hotels CI /Herald Voucher 3.Bank 11. Lydiaof Cook IslandsSijp – &Foot Wall Massage/ of Fame Pedicure 4. Aquarius Session Rarotonga 12. The Hotel Flametree & Restaurant Restaurant/Dinner 5.Temu & VoucherLesley Okotai 13. ANZ / Farm Bank/Sponsors Direct Mani - hikiTrophy Black Pearls14. Aunty 6. Fuji Kafo- Image Kafoteria / Colin Café & Tatiana– lunch forBurns 2 15 -Production. International of Olympic photo 7. Committee Staircase -Restuarant Olympic Solidarity. - Sisi & Mann Short - Voucher 8. Nga Nelio - Massage Therapist 9. Lydia Sijp -Foot massage pamper pack 10. Martha Makimare -Tivaivai sponsorship16. 11.Mousie CISNOC -Skews Women - Photo in sport Sponsorship Commission/WOM 12. Aunty Organising Mii at Punanga Committee Nui Markets 13. CISNOC Women in Sport Commission - WOM Organising Commitee Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 8 OPINION Cook Islands a Christian country with ungodly leaders f the vulnerable elderly pointed the finger of blame to quick as it was ignited. To the government service fees citizens of the Cook Islands Neves saying he had the power. utter shame of Puna and Brown and levies are becoming Icannot find comfort or a Grey Power member’s resolve after four months not one cent instruments of punishment hope for a good future under and resistance to the written has been reimbursed. and a heavy burden for middle the leadership of their elected threats from Tax man Andrew Despite the retirees bringing and low income earning Cook politicians to whom can they Haigh resulted in their personal nearly $6 million of new money Islanders who if they can, turn? Retirees returning from Bank accounts being illegally into the Cook Islands they exodus their own country New Zealand to enjoy their plundered with no intervention are treated as opinionated looking for a promised land remaining years living a stress by Brown or Puna. When the intruders and not resourceful elsewhere. free relaxed lifestyle have by Grey Power retaliated with assets who could still contribute Far removed from the self preservation turned into a “He doesn’t care” media their life experiences and skills struggles of life Puna and angry combatants to fight campaign Puna buckled, not for the benefit of the country. Brown are ungodly Pharaoh government’s oppressive only was he cruel but it was The short sighted uncaring Leaders who don’t deserve stance on back taxing their NZ now publically unchallengeable Puna and his lap dog Brown any sympathy when they are pensions. that the PM didn’t not care are modern day Pharaohs. tossed from power at the next While Minister of Internal about the elderly being bullied When Moses stood before general elections. Elected to be Affairs, Mark Brown initially by the expats hired help Haigh Pharaoh and pleaded for a responsive to the voice of the sympathised with the evolving and Neves. less burdensome life for the people, Puna and Brown have Grey Power with promises to chosen to respond to the voice support their grievances giving of overpaid expat bureaucrats them hope the back tax burden If anything happened quickly, that have no empathy for Cook would be lifted quickly, but Island people. For those who once Brown put his Minister of it was his Finance Ministry’s can remember Papa Arapati’s Finance hat on it soon became wise words, “Look after your obvious he had a split political secretary Richard Neves’ own people first and they will personality. effortless hypnotic persuasion take care of you.” If anything happened quickly, Where are the courageous it was his Finance Ministry’s that Brown melted into that Moses like Church leaders secretary Richard Neves’ who have the overwhelming effortless hypnotic persuasion overnight resulted in him compassion for the down that Brown melted into that trodden and vulnerable overnight resulted in him becoming an uncompromising that they dare stand before becoming an uncompromising government leaders and staunch advocate of back taxes. staunch advocate of back taxes. petition for the lost foundation Without an ounce of shame love of the CIP? Courage is a Brown dumped the Ministry In an amateurish attempt to enslaved Children of Israel, valued human trait as is respect. Of Internal Affairs as he chose shift blame for such ungodly Pharaoh’s cruel reply was to Respect is appropriate when the money over the people treatment of elderly Cook increase their suffering. those in authority act properly taking Neves uncaring hard line Island citizens, in a hurried Like the Moses of the Old respecting the rights of those approach of enforcement. television conference Puna, Testament Book of Exodus, who are led. Respecting acts In the meantime the Prime giving the appearance he was many community leaders have of ungodly treatment supports Minister Henry Puna sat horrified and angry launched gone before Government to wrongdoing. on the Pontius Pilate fence spin doctoring media releases seek relief and compassion Puna and Brown are vigorously keeping his hands clean only to shift the blame onto his for the less fortunate, but like denying the CIP members their to comment when he was officials as he promised to the cruel Pharaoh, Puna and Party constitution right to have cornered outside his office. reimburse the $30,000 plus Brown don’t care about the a Conference because they Puna’s attitude was to let the unauthorised Bank account plight of those suffering who have become leaders without Grey Power march and protest extractions. struggle every day to make followers who fear their demise because he suggested to his Up lifted that the Prime ends meet. Their instructions if a CIP conference is convened. colleagues they would serve Minister had at last intervened are to tax the local pensioner’s Remember the words of Jesus as their entertainment. Instead and giving the impression he never before tampered with when he said, ”I tell you the of accepting responsibility for was going to put an end to their sacred cow benefits plus truth, whatsoever you did for one the cruel predation of the Grey grievances, Dennis Tunui and an added new burden of an of the least of these brothers of Power, Puna claimed he had the Grey Power’s rush of joy increased VAT. mine you did it for me.” Mathew no power to intervene and he and relief was extinguished as At every turn increased 25v40 - George Pitt PB

GOVERNMENT OF THE COOK ISLANDS MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS P O Box 98, Rarotonga, Cook Islands * Tel: (682) 29-370 * Fax: (682) 23-608 * E-mail: [email protected]

MEDIA RELEASE

COOK ISLANDS OLD AGE PENSION - RECALCULATION OF LATE REGISTRATIONS

The Government announced last week that it would re-calculate the March 2014 pension payment rate for those pensioners that had made late registrations for the 25% pension increase, which was introduced as part of the tax reforms. Pensioners that submitted late registrations may be entitled to a reimbursement correcting their March 2014 payment rate. Due to increased administration arising from the recalculation process, the additional payment will be made separately from the regular 16 March 2014 payment. Those pensioners that will receive a reimbursement should expect an additional payment to be made in their Bank of Cook Islands accounts in the period prior to 1 April 2014. If you are expecting a pension reimbursement and have not received it by 1 April 2014, please contact the Ministry of Internal Affairs for further information.

MONI PAKARI KUKI AIRANI – AKATANOANGA I TE TUTAKIANGA A TE ARONGA TEI TAVAREVARE I TE RETITA I te epetoma i topa manako te Kavamani kia akatanoia te mooni pakarki a te au metua no te marama (Mati) koia te au metua tei tavarevare te retitaanga ki roto i te akakakeanga ruangauru ma rima patene. Ko te au metua pakari tei kore i vivki i te retita, ka akaoki ia mai te moni tei kiritiia mei roto mai i te tutakianga moni pakari o Mati. No te maata i te tauianga te ka raveia ka tutaki takake ia te reira moni mei te tutakianga moni pakari o te ra 16 o Mati. E ka tae te reira tienianga ki roto i ta kotou puka moni i mua ake i te ra 01 o Aperira e tu mai nei. Me kare taau moni i tae ki roto i taau buka i te ra 01 Aperira no runga i te akatanoanga moni, taniuniu mai i te Opati o te Tango Ropianga no tetai akamaramaanga takake. END CONTACT: Bredina Drollet, Secretary of Internal Affairs

Please reply all correspondence to the Secretary of Internal Affairs Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 10 OPINION Cook Islands Party cruel and doesn’t care emocratic Party insiders are their backs. saying their political foes “Maybe that’s why they’re called Dhave created “a government back taxes,” the political campaign that doesn’t care” and that the insiders are saying with a touch of forthcoming campaign will target dark humour. the Cook Islands Party’s failures to The two years of additional look after the people. burdens on the old people to With only eight months to pay taxes, and the failure of the go before the end of the Cook government to talk sensitively to Islands Party’s four year term, the the pensioners in a way they can Opposition are beginning to establish understand, is ammo for the Demo its campaign platform to exploit the Party campaign claims. poor treatment of local people. The “don’t care” claims will be “This is a government with no further highlighted in the way feelings for how the people have that government has allowed the suffered, and are suffering because Neneva-nomics of the Financial of the lack of sympathy and Secretary to run rough-shod over concern,” according to Demo Party every bureaucratic step. The PM policy developers. and Finance Minister Brown helped “This is a government that is establish this pattern of governing saying I’m okay but who cares what by giving up the ghost on controlling you’re going through.” the taxation review. The foregone The campaign is expected to conclusion about the tax changes gather momentum on promoting that the community cried out over the CIP as the party that lost touch has come to pass and every change with the people. Three issues look PM Henry Puna – a lot of talk and no substance will be carried out. like they will grab headlines for The cries of opposition over the next several months: the CIP’s bank account raids and threatening the story changed. Pensioners will the taxes and the Te Mato Vai excessive travel overseas, pressuring letters, and misinformation from only get the money back if they project management has raised the old people for back taxes, the government. Just before last promise to pay the back taxes. more questions than answers over and an uncontrolled bureaucracy Christmas, Grey Power was given The back taxes have been lumped government performance but none with poor consultation on major the impression that raided money onto the old people’s backs like a of the concerns have been taken developments. It’s “open season” would be returned. Government sack of manure. It’s a heavy burden on board. That’s left the CIP wide on all the controversies tagged to promised the money would be that cannot be carried, especially as open on the Demo call to oust a these issues, say the campaign returned. The Financial Secretary at least three Grey Power members government that doesn’t care about policy insiders. was overseas but when the architect have since passed away. The elderly the people – or their suffering. The overseas travel list of of “Neneva-nomics” came home, are dying with the back taxes still on - George Pitt international destinations would cast a giant shadow over US President Obama. The Government Letter to the Editor tourist brochure over the last four years is so bad that the daily When is conflict of interest not a newspaper started a ‘watch list’ that gets published every week (Cook Islands News declined to publish this letter) detailing the absences. It’s a clear conflict of interest? eorge Pitt, always a to go to court can he just simply contracts from this loan been public record of draining the Civil controversial figure, assure the community that there subjected to Cook Islands rules List money that politicians use to got the boot from the is absolutely no truth in what of transparency. dip into on every trip overseas but G chairmanship of BTIB because George is alleging? This means Mind you, if Minister without the costs attached. The he alleges conflict of interest George Pitt is telling an outright Heather’s definition of conflict overseas travel is also a regular for Minister Heather who was lie and T&M has no semblance of of interest is to be believed, this feature of the daily cartoon that allegedly about to sign a $7 something akin to an agreement government is in serious trouble features a singing Prime Minister million agreement with the with the Chinese that could indeed. As it was explained and Ministers with little care in the Chinese contractor for Te Mato reap millions to T&M. It has also to me, The Minister felt no world about the poor suffering Vai. Other than sacking Pitt been said that because this is a conflict of interest with all these people left behind at home. government has not bothered sub contract from the Chinese works contracts he is intimately to explain whether Pitt’s contractor there is no need for involved because he is the only The taxation on the elderly and allegation has any merit at all. tendering and transparency one in Cabinet who can drive the pressure to pay back taxes Rumour has it that the Minister and contestability. I believe a bulldozer!! What hope did has been managed so badly that will sue and even the Chinese the money involved here is a poor George Pitt have when the pensioners started their own contractor will also sue George loan the Cook Islands people government is ruled by such movement – the Grey Power. Those Pitt. are suppose to pay, if so, why fantastic logic! members have been subject to Before the Minister bothers has not all contracts and sub A bulldozer mechanic. PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 11 VIEWS Memories of my fallen M.P. friends By Norman George MP for Teenui/Mapumai (Atiu) Authority to control all road I am afraid! have lost 30 not 29 of diggings which involved tar Robert Wigmore was a Members of Parliament sealed roads. The purpose hard and tireless worker. who I have served with in was for people wishing to dig He laboured 7 days a week. I roads to obtain permits first There was no such thing as Parliament. I would like to share a few of some lighter before digging and to repair public holidays to Rob and moments involving them with the road afterwards. Teariki his children. He was a very you. said some people in Titikaveka kind generous man. He was One of my best mates in were opposed to the idea. In unbeatable in Titikaveka Parliament was Ngereteina order to let things cool off, I because of his generosity. Puna. He is alive, well and adjourned my submission to Whatever happens in the fighting fit in Auckland! I the following weeks cabinet. electorate, Rob was there must share this one fun My calculation was to let to assist. He hosted many incident with you. Ngere had him doze off to sleep before a parties at the old Wigmore just returned from a Pacific quick discussion and approval. homestead. He would never Regional Commonwealth I arranged with the Cabinet let us leave unless we ate from Parliamentary Association secretary to place it midway his well supplied umu. No one Meeting. At the beginning through the agenda. ever went hungry when Robert of the sitting, he got up to The following week, Wigmore hosted a Sunday or announce that he had been everything went according to Christmas party. appointed to the Executive plan. Papa Teariki snoozed off His business boomed. He of that organisation. The as expected, Cabinet decisions became deservedly wealthy appointment being one of the went through without and successful. All his own highest in the Commonwealth comment. Nervously I watched efforts. His long exposure to and a major achievement for – “keep snoozing Papa”. But agriculture chemicals created the Cook Islands. right on schedule, when my serious health problems for True to CIP grandstanding, MP submission was called, he Rob in the end. He fought swamps to motivate young after MP got up to praise Ngere woke up! “Is that the Road it hard. He was still active athletes. for his outstanding achievement. Authority Submission?” He until about 6 months to the An outstanding sportsman I had to toss a hand grenade in. I repeated his opposition! Papa end. Robert was a human himself, he was a black belt in got up and congratulated Ngere. Matenga won! That is why we caterpillar, energetic, hard Karate. No one bothers the I reminded him of a Buddhist have no Road Authority today. headed person, determined quietly spoken Mr. Nicholas. proverb, which said that the I repeated the event at Papa and unashamedly successful. He was also a champion Avatiu higher the monkey climbs up Teariki’s 80th birthday and Papa Tatara Samuel was from A grade rugby player. a pole, the more you see of its we all had a good laugh about Arorangi. He was head of the Peto never drank alcohol. bum. it. He was a 100% consensus Public Health division for many He was also a guitarist in a There was immediate havoc! man. If anyone disagreed with years before retiring. He was well known local band. He Outcry! And out! Out! Calls anything he feels extremely CIP MP for Ruaau for two terms. never raised his voice. He had from the CIP! concerned. I asked him to go He was gentle and business a wicked sense of humour. I Teariki Matenga was by a 55% majority option, but like. He was very effective in never saw him back down the quietly spoken MP for he stuck to the 100% principle village matters in Puaikura. He from an argument. Titikaveka. He was a retired which is impossible! He had stole no headlines and neither He was very loyal to the CIP, doctor. Teariki was the a reputation of keeping his did he catch the blacksmokes but in the end they betrayed secretary of the Titikaveka waistline and weight the of the smoke signal column. him – he lost the Avatiu seat CICC and a Cabinet Minister at same from his graduation Papa Tatara was a true kindly to the present CIP MP John the same time. When we were from medical school all of his gentleman. Henry. in Cabinet, Teariki had a habit life. You can see why. Hard Albert Peto Nicholas, was It was so tragic to lose Peto of nodding off to sleep. I used physical work! He spends all Mr. Avatiu Club through and so early. He did not deserve to to put it down to all the church his time in the taro patch and through. He devoted his life leave us so soon – but maybe services he was attending. On breeding pigs. He always had to supporting all kinds of sport he was needed elsewhere. a very rare occasion, he and a ready smile, quietly spoken in Avatiu and Ruatonga. From We still find it hard to bring I ended up disagreeing with and fun to have a few drinks rugby, cricket, rugby league closure to Peto’s loss, we were each other over a submission with. He was a great dancer! and athletics, especially very close friends. Whoops I made to cabinet. The Then which of our doctors Kumete Sport. Year after year, a couple of tear drops have submission was to set up an aren’t? Not lawyer’s domain, Peto was there at the Avatiu fallen again! Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 12 NEWS Political Reform …“A Dream to Reality?” The “Political Reform Package” to go before the next sitting of Parliament consist if : * Aitutaki : going from 3 seats down to 2 seats in Parliament. * Atiu : 2 seats down to 1 seat in Parliament. * Mangaia 3 seats down to 1 seat in Parliament. Total seats in the Cook Islands Parliament to be reduced from 24 to 20.

After many years being tossed around as Being a Constitutional Amendment Reform Proposals from “A Dream to a “political hot potato”, the present Cook means there has to be a two-thirds Reality” was not forthcoming until just Islands Party Government has finally had majority support (or a minimum of 16 recently. the “courage” to put together a Political votes) in Parliament, to enable these Since the Cook Islands gained Self- Reform Package. Political Reforms to succeed. Government in 1965, the voting This will now go before Parliament at If this amendment does not receive a population on most of the outer islands its next sitting in the next few days as minimum of 16 member votes in has steadily declined as reflected in the being the most significant political reform Parliament, then these Political Reforms two charts included here. this country has seen since before Self- will not go ahead and so the “Status Quo” However, the adult population of Government in 1965. will remain in place. Aitutaki has held up really well. It has not Some may say this “Political Reform The Cook Islands Party Cabinet, declined since 1965, but rather shown a Package” does not go far enough. Caucus and C.I.P. Executive Committee small steady increase which has been a Others will say at least this is a start has already pledged its full support to surprise to many . . . including myself. after so many years of being ignored and these Reforms. They are “Rock Solid” in Rarotonga has shown steady adult placed in the “too-hard-basket” by this regard. population growth over the years, which numerous Governments in recent years. But they only have 13 members in then begs the question : What is really In order to bring these changes into Parliament. The C.I.P. need at least 3 behind the question of apparent Cook effect, the Cook Islands Constitution Act more votes from the Opposition side in Islands “de-population” in recent years? 1965 has to be amended. order for this Constitutional Amendment But that is another issue to be considered After being tabled in the House, and to go through. at another time. following the First Reading (Tabling and So without a significant element of In the case of Atiu and Mangaia with Introduction), and the Second Reading, Democratic Party support, these Political more than one MP, the decline in adult being the time when the main Reforms will not succeed. population numbers has been substantial Parliamentary debate will take place, this The “driving force” behind these to the extent that having more than one Constitutional Amendment then has be Political Reforms has been Teina Bishop. MP is really hard to justify anymore. held in abeyance for a period of at least It was he who pulled them out of the If we take the results of the November three months for public scrutiny and “too-hard-basket”, got these proposals 2010 General Election where Norman discussion. through Cabinet and now into Parliament. George won his seat on Atiu for the Cook It is only after a 3 month period has Teina has been working behind the Islands Party, then these Political elapsed, that this piece of legislation will scenes for almost two years to “pull this Reforms will see the Democratic Party then come back before Parliament for the whole thing together”. losing 2 seats on Mangaia and the Cook Third and Final Reading where it will I know this to be that case. Islands Party losing 2 seats being one on then be finally endorsed and approved Why? Atiu and a second on Aitutaki. sometime later in the year. . . . because I helped him do it. So in this regard one could say these And so when the country goes to the This has not been an easy road for Teina. Political Reforms will affect both parties General Election at the end of this year, it While his various caucus and cabinet to equal extent. will be to elect 20 members of Parliament colleagues always agreed in principle So it is “fair-fair” in that respect. and not 24 as it is at the moment. there had to be political/electoral reform, By reducing the number of Members of That is the “theory”. Bit in “practical (that was the easy part) but getting a Parliament for Aitutaki, Atiu and terms” it might not be as simple as that. commitment to support definite Political Mangaia, there will be considerable

Aitutaki, Atiu and Mangaia : Voter Registration and Constituency Breakdown : 1965 -2010

1965 1999 2004 2006 26 November 2010 : General Election Election Election Election Election (Registrations on Rolls 1999 to 2006) On Roll Voted Non-voters

Aitutaki : Amuri-Ureia . . ? 399 377 397 389 ….. 352 ….. 37 Arutanga-Reureu-Nikaupara : ? 300 333 320 354 ….. 335 ….. 19 Vaipae-Tautu : . . ? 422 441 462 432 ….. 349 ….. 83 Island totals : 1121 1151 1179 1036 139 1032 1175 Increase of 143 voters from 1965 to 2010

Atiu : Teenui-Mapumai :. . ? 173 141 144 127 ….. 113 ….. 14 Tengatangi-Areora-Ngatiarua : ? 254 212 177 167 ….. 159 ….. 8 Island totals : 427 353 321 272 22 488 294 Decrease of 194 voters from 1965 to 2010

Mangaia : Oneroa : . . ? 304 229 218 233 ….. 216 ….. 17 Ivirua : . . . ? 132 94 90 79 ….. 74 ….. 5 Tamarua : . . ? 100 75 74 64 ….. 61 ….. 3 Island totals : 536 398 382 351 25 726 376 Decrease of 350 voters from 1965 to 2010

PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 NEWS 13 savings in the Civil List of about $60,000 The introduction of the “1000 voters Following the next election, there will per member per year. This amount being per “Geographical Identity” is a good one. be other political reform options that need the basic member’s salary as well as Rarotonga is divided into 10 to be considered as part of our ongoing various allowances and other financial Constituencies on a geographical (or process of “democratic evolution”. benefits. village) basis with all but one The length of Parliament is 4 years at However, these Political Reforms are Constituency (Tupapa) having less than the moment. Should it be extended to 5 not about “money”. It is not a cost-cutting 1,000 registered electors for the 2010 years? (no : that’s too long). Should it be exercise. General Election. It is envisaged that the reduced to 3 years? A possible option. It is understood that these savings from voting numbers will be similar for the Is it worthwhile to consider a return to the Civil List will be transferred as 2014 General Election. the “Vaka Constituencies” on Rarotonga additional funds to the three Island The same principle of 1 Member of with multiple candidates and multiple Government Budgets for next year, and in Parliament for up to 1,000 registered votes in each of the three “Vaka each subsequent year after that. electors, for each “Geographical Identity” Constituencies” as it was up until 1982? In this way, the Island Government has therefore been applied to all the outer Should Rarotonga have a reduction in Budget’s for Aitutaki and Atiu will islands as well. MP’s from 10 to say 7 or 8 as suggested increase by $60,000 a year, while the While most of the outer islands are well by the Leader of the Opposition? Island Government Budget for Mangaia below the 1,000 number of registered All these, and other ideas/options, will increase by $120,000 a year. electors, each of these islands are await discussion and consideration at a Having recently passed the Island “Geographical Identities” in their own future time. Government Act 2013, the Cook Islands right which are totally unique and In the meantime, I am hopeful that the Government has pledged itself to completely separate from each other. Constitutional Amendment due to go allowing each outer island government an Each of the outer islands is therefore before Parliament in the next few weeks effective, devolved, autonomous role in still guaranteed to have their own voice in to reduce the number of MP’S in running its own island. Parliament and so it is very pleasing there Parliament from 24 to 20 will be On those islands with a single MP, the is no proposed changes to those single successful and so be in place before the member’s roll is well understood and is constituency outer islands. next General Election. complementary to that of the mayor and However, one casualty to the “1,000 But that will depend entirely upon the island council. elector” principle is Aitutaki. members of the Democratic Party. The On the other hand, those islands with Having 1175 registered electors on the destiny of this Constitutional Amendment more than one MP were often fragmented combined electoral rolls, means they only rests fairly and squarely with them. into various constituencies with qualify for 2 members of Parliament. 3 or more Demo MP’s need to support competing political agendas that often cut 1,000 electors qualifies Aitutaki for 1 MP. this “Political Reform Package”. If that across a unified system of island They have more then 1,000 voters, so this does not happen, then this whole government. qualifies Aitutaki to have a 2nd MP. It is “Political Reform Package” will go down By reducing the numbers of MPs for on this basic 1000/1MP formula that sees the “political toilet” and won’t succeed. Aitutaki, Atiu and Mangaia will therefore Aitutaki lose one of its seats in Simple as that. eliminate this fragmentation and so Parliament. Next week . . . should be seen as a natural progression in This is not the end of Political/Electoral I might to talk about Mangaia. empowering the new Island Governments Reform here in the Cook Islands. But “Island of my Grandmother”. of those islands. rather, this is just the end of the beginning. Howard Henry Cook Islands Population Voting Statistics : 1965-2010

All numbers quoted below (apart from 1965) are those who were Registered on the respective Electoral Rolls for each General Election … not votes cast.

20 April 16 June 7 September 27 September 17 November Pop. Increase/Decrease 1965 1999 2004 2006 2010 1965 compared to 2010 Rarotonga Te-au-o-Tonga : 2405 3026 3094 3307 3577 Increase of 1172 Takitumu : 877 1623 1792 1727 2110 Increase of 1233 Puaikura : 817 1810 1630 1531 1840 Increase of 1023 4099 6459 6516 6565 7527 Total Rarotonga increase of 3428

Aitutaki : 1032 1121 1151 1179 1175 Increase of 143

Mangaia : 726 536 398 382 376 Decrease of 350

Atiu : 488 427 353 321 294 Decrease of 194

Manihiki : 259 310 221 173 183 Decrease of 76

Rakahanga : 150* 118 80 68 59 Decrease of 91

Penrhyn : 300* 258 197 147 146 Decrease of 154

Pukapuka/Nassau : 381 453 369 285 243 Decrease of 138

Mitiaro : 103 158 127 104 117 Increase of 14

Mauke : 265 292 243 218 226 Decrease of 39

Total on the Roll : 7803 10,132 9655 9442 10,346 Total Cook Islands Increase of 2543

• * Figures quoted for Rakahanga and Penrhyn in the 1965 General Election are estimates only as both candidates were elected unopposed. • Figures quoted for the 1965 General Election represent Total Votes cast. Statistics regarding Total Electoral Roll numbers are not available. However, voter turnout is thought to have been about 90 – 95%. • Figures quoted for the General Elections 1999 to 2010 are the totals of Registered Voters on the various Electoral Rolls … and not total votes cast. • For the 1965 General Election, “Vaka Constituencies” existed for Rarotonga (9 members) and “Single Island Constituencies” were in place for Aitutaki (3 members), Mangaia (2 members) and Atiu (2 members). Both “Vaka Constituencies” and “Single Island Constituencies” were abolished in 1982 and replaced with “Single Member Constituencies” as we have today. It was at this time that the number of MP’s for Mangaia increased from 2 to 3 members in Parliament.

Minimum wage now $6 an hour he Minimum Wage Review their employees at rates of pay in Panel has recommended excess of the current minimum PRINTER INK that the Minister of Internal wage. Pa Enua businesses, on Cartridges Affairs,T the Hon. Nandi Glassie, the other hand, have revenue Check your printer's software or driver settings. Most print- increase the minimum wage and profit constraints that may ers come with a user-friendly software interface that lets you rate of pay to $6 per hour, a 20% limit their ability to raise wages. increase on the current minimum The cost of the increase to access and tweak many of the printer's functions. All come wage rate of $5 per hour. $6 per hour to government is with (or instruct you to download) a printer driver—a pro- The Minister is yet to make a estimated to be $150,000 per gram that controls the printer, converting files and com- final decision on the minimum annum. mands into a format the printer can recognize. The driver wage rate, which is expected to The Minimum Wage Panel was offers a more direct way (and in some cases, the only way) take effect on 1 April 2014 (next appointed by Minister Glassie to change printer settings, with all the settings accessible week) to coincide with the VAT and comprised Patricia Tuara through a tabbed interface. increases. An announcement by Demmke (Ministry of Internal the Minister is expected to be Affairs), James Webb (Ministry To find the driver, open the Printers page (in some Windows made by the end of this week. of Finance and Economic versions called Devices and Printers) from the Start menu or Working in accordance with Management), Steve Anderson the Control Panel, right-click on your printer's name (or the Employment Relations Act (Chamber of Commerce), icon), and open the Printing Preferences tab. 2012, and guided by terms of Anthony Turua (Cook Islands reference, criteria, and public Workers Association) and Whether you work from the software interface or the driver, feedback, the Minimum Wage Andrew Turua (community our recommendations are the same. Look for ink saver or Panel submitted the 2014 representative). toner saver mode. Print in Draft mode except when presenta- Minimum Wage Rate Review Copies of the Minimum Wage tion quality is required. Wherever possible, print in black Report to the Minister Glassie Review report panel can be instead of color. If your printer supports duplex printing, earlier this month. obtained on request. For further using it will enable you to save paper. Review findings showed that information, please contact the majority of employers in the Labour Division, Ministry of With laser printers, toner will settle over time, causing it to Rarotonga pay most, if not all, of Internal Affairs, ph 29370. be unevenly distributed on the printed page, causing faded areas and/or streaking. If your laser print quality is deterio- rating, remove the toner cartridge from the printer and shake or rock it from side to side five or six times. You may be able to do this several times before the cartridge actually needs replacing. brands we stock

All prices are Inclusive of V.A.T. Price valid 01/01/2014 - 31/12/2014 E.O.E. PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 OPINION 15 Top NZ Rapper K. One and NZ Hiphop DJ CXL to perform at Rehab Friday 4th of April DJ CXL… nlike last month’s guest artists to Rehab URarotonga; Sammy J and Chad Chambers, this won’t be the first time for New Zealand DJ, Producer and member of the band Ill Semantics, DJ CXL to sunny Rarotonga. Although he loves to play more at festivals rather than club shows, his performance at Rehab Rarotonga will be a spectacular one. The DJ is part Pakeha and part Maori, who comes from a small town on the East Coast of the North Island called Tikitiki from iwi Ngati Porou. The 2003 NZ Disco Mix Club (DMC) Champion has been involved in music since his early teens and has been DJ’ing for roughly 15 years, “I taught myself how to pay drums, played in some school rock bands until I discovered the turntables. DJ CXL K.One I then traded my sticks for some Destiny’s Childs dancers even Rapper K.One currently signed were great storytellers as well records and never looked back” came out on stage to dance! to Illegal Musik worked 7 years in such as Nas and 2Pac. he says. As I was packing up, Beyonce’s Forestry, now he is a well known He is also greatly influenced After coming out as Champion mother came up to me saying rapper who has shared the stage by the everyday life and the for the DMC, he went on to she really loved how I DJ’d and if with legends both locally and experiences he or someone close represent NZ in the DMC World I would be interested in opening internationally. to him has had, “I like to make Finals placing in the top 12, for Destiny’s Child in London, of The half Samoan/Tokelauan, songs that people can resonate which is not bad for a self taught course I was pretty shocked but half European rapper calls with, what can still be enjoyed DJ. His music taste varies from keen as to do so I gave her my himself a small-town kid from a in the club and on the radio and Hip Hop, RnB, Trap, DnB, House, number and left it at that”. place called Masterton but since still makes you think when you Dubstep, Electro, Reggae and Unfortunately DJ CXL didn’t becoming an artist, has moved really take time to listen to the Party Music, he believes the end up making it to London to Auckland City. K.One has content,” he says. ‘catch’ is important; if the crowds but the fact that they loved been producing music for a long There have been many don’t know the song at least the his performance was enough time now, but has been in the highlights for him during his catchiness will grab them, “well to keep him going. His DJing industry for 4 years, “I started 4 years in the music industry, hopefully,” he laughs. profession has seen him open for out as a teenager recording my performing around NZ or The music he produces is artists including 50 Cent, Busta songs onto cassette tape on my Australia on most weekends. sample based, he digs through Rhymes, Destinys Child, A$AP mum’s stereo using a karaoke The rapper performed in old records such as that from Rocky, RZA, DMX, Chris Brown, microphone and was signed front of 180,000 people at the 70s then rebuilds the music Rihanna and DJ Qbert and the in 2010 by Illegal Musik who a relief concert called ‘Band around that to create something next International artist he will discovered me through a demo I Together’ for the victims of new and fresh and he is inspired be supporting alongside K.One submitted,” he says. the devastating Christchurch from absolutely anything, is Tyga. Many of you may have heard earthquake that took place in “anything inspires me when it At the moment the DJ is ‘Night of Your Life’ featuring 2011 and his tour around Japan comes to DJ’ing or producing working on music for the new J.Williams; that is the most with label-mate J Williams music, could be an awesome Ill Semantics album and is successful song of his career is definitely a highlight that view from on top of a mountain, looking forward to performing that reached number 4 on the stands out for him, which he going back home to my roots, a at Rehab, “come check us out Recording Industry Association describes as “a crazy two weeks movie…anything.” at Boom Boom beats, really of New Zealand charts and in an amazing country.” Awesome fact and biggest looking forward to playing and received gold certification in K.One is super excited to not highlight for DJ CXL during his hanging out with some old faces 2010. His latest single is ‘Same only be performing for us at profession is that he was the and hopefully some new ones, if You’ which features label-mate Rehab, but with his daughters support DJ for Destiny’s Child in that’s you, see ya there!’ and NZ pop star Brooke Duff. having Rarotonga connection, he Auckland in 2001, he reminisces K.One depicts himself as a is looking forward to seeing and the event that drew crowds of storyteller, with the majority of experiencing the homeland. 15,000; “every song I played felt K.One his music being influenced by Grab your $20 pre-sale tickets like the actual Artist was there, efore pursuing his dream Artists he listened to as he was at REHAB or 88FM, or buy $25 the crowd sang and roared of becoming a recording growing up whom he believes tickets at the door. like there was no tomorrow, Bartist, New Zealand Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 NEWS 16 Internship at SOPAC for Cook Islander s part of the on-going local Training and Capacity Abuilding program of the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority, a young qualified Cook Islander is now on a fully funded, 3 month Technical Internship at SOPAC in Fiji. SOPAC is the regional scientific organisation of the Pacific. Its goal is to apply geosciences and technology to realise new opportunities for improving livelihoods of Pacific communities. This SOPAC Technical internship is being undertaken by Cook Islander, Mr. Marino Wichman, a GIS Science Marino Wichman is second from the right graduate from Otago University. Legal Adviser in the SBM Authority 2014/15, we need to build required under the Seabed Marino is a son of local lawyer, in Avarua. more local capacity for the SBM Minerals Act 2009, now in force. Mr. Puai Wichman. A Geographic Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority to be able to initiate Seabed Minerals Commissioner Information System (GIS) is a Commissioner, Paul Lynch, and establish appropriate Paul Lynch, states that “Marino system designed to capture, states that “We are very pleased GIS solutions and protocols Wichman has been sending back store, manipulate, analyze, to be able to access further in terms of management of regular reports to us, as required, manage, and present all types of Seabed minerals related training data management needs for and is clearly receiving the benefit geographical data. for young Cook Islanders like the Seabed Minerals sector, of a lot of exposure to the wide This is the second Internship Marino and others. Having which is under the Cook Islands range of scientific, technical work generously provided to the Seabed Cook Islands people with the jurisdiction and control”. that SOPAC administers in the Minerals Authority by SOPAC. In relevant qualifications, skills GIS skills will be needed for Pacific region. Marino is the third 2012, Cook Islands lawyer, Ms. and experience is an essential the SBM Authority to map and Pacific Islander to take up this type Alex Herman, undertook training requirement for the positive identify seabed minerals zones of Technical Internship with SOPAC. through a Legal internship, development of our national in the Cook Islands large EEZ, And we are very grateful for this provided under the regional seabed minerals sector. At which will assist future licencing, continuing assistance provided by SPC-EU Deep Sea Minerals project. this time, with Exploratory monitoring, compliance and SOPAC to the Cook Islands Seabed Alex is now employed full-time as Licencing likely to happen in enforcement activities, as Minerals Authority”. Control of internet function transferred hough it will hardly be IANA looks after the internet’s registering a ripple in the root zone (the address book of Tlives of internet users in the the internet ). Cook Islands, or perhaps even The decision by the National in the Pacific, the United States Telecommunications and government made a momentous Information Administration of decision last week to relinquish the US Government was made its role in the control of one of the just before the ICANN meeting most important sections of the in Singapore where consultation management of the internet. The meetings are being held to Internet Corporation of Assigned begin the transition process. Names and Numbers (ICANN) is Larry Strickling, Assistant currently looking at how it will Secretary of Commerce for manage the transition process. the US Government, is at the Cook Islands Rep Maureen Hilyard in Singapore At the ICANN meeting in ICANN meeting to support the Singapore, internet governance transition process. (RIR) who then distribute them as their domain name or email has become the hot topic as On a local level, the company to regional registrars who are address (e.g. [email protected]. the stewardship of the Internet which will probably be affected, usually internet service providers ck). But when you send an Assigned Numbers Authority if at all, will be Telecom Cook (ISP) in individual countries. Our email, the internet system uses (IANA) was transferred from Islands. IANA allocates and RIR is the Asia Pacific Network its second format which is its the joint control of the US maintains the unique numbering Information Centre (APNIC) numbered format. In the Pacific Government, the Internet systems that drive the internet. based in Brisbane. APNIC also which uses IPv4 numbering, so Corporation of Assigned Names These are the IP (internet manages a Who is Database of that your address could look and Numbers (ICANN) and protocol) addresses that each all registered users of allocated like 172.16.254.1. This is hardly Verisign (a company that was internet connection uses to resources (IP addresses and a format that an internet user tasked with coordinating the connect from one computer domain names). would remember easily, which management of generic top level to another. These IP addresses An IP address comes in two is why the system allows for the domains) to that of the global are first of all allocated by IANA formats. The first one is what use of words for email addresses multistakeholder community. to Regional Internet Registries ordinary internet users refer to and domain names. PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 NEWS 1 7 Internship at SOPAC for Cook Islander Caught on Camera in Feilding, NZ

Jenny Crane who resides in Fielding is the daughter Heidi Massicks is the niece of Tom and Shirley Wills of of former Tereora College Head of Maths teacher Palm Grove in Titikaveka. A Supervisor at Gails childcare “Papa Crane” and the mother of CITV News Aitutaki in Fielding Heidi said she last visited Rarotonga in 2011 Correspondent Alan Nanae. Jenny said her father taught on a “Girls trip”. at Tereora for several years from the early 60,s thru to “We stayed at Muri and had the most wonderful time, we the 70’s. She has two children with Cook Islands heritage had a ball and all the girls ejoyed their stay espeially the and was delighted to bump into someone with Cook island night” Heidi said. Islands connections. A retired school teacher she is based “I especially want to send my love to my aunt and in Fielding , and would dearly love to return to the Cook uncle”. - Shona Pitt Islands one day to visit her grandchildren. -Shona Pitt MMR team at FFA Annual Meeting

L-R: Andrew Jones, MMR Director of Offshore Fisheries, Peter Graham, FFA Surveillance Operations Officer, Pamela Maru, FFA Fisheries Management Adviser, and Lara Manarangi-Trott, Compliance Manager with the WCPFC in FSM. Photocredit-FFAmedia. Peter is a leading part of the FFA technical team coordinating this weeks annual meeting, and Pamela is also providing technical advice to the gathering. Lara who is based in the North Pacific is amongst the resource presenters and helped chair the WWF Emerging technologies workshop for MCS on the weekend. She takes the lead for next weeks regional WCPFC e-monitoring workshop, which is being hosted at FFA in Honiara.- Lisa Williams Lahari Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 SPORTS 18 Fantasy Odds on who will Simple Simon says.... WIN League Premier FINAL Poor Facility’s Makes Team Date Date for Poor Crowds th th Mar 19 Mar 25 What do you get for your $??? Eels $5 $5 hen going to a sports game anywhere on the Bulldogs $9 $9 island we as paying customers are short changed. Panthers $9 $9 WWhat do you get for your dollar? Too often sports organisations take your money and that of the tourist, and Sea Eagles $35 $35 give you very little back in return. Toilets, Bar facilities, Car Bears $20 $20 parking and even dangerous areas are NOT sign posted Warriors $40 nor cordoned off. Evening lighting is abysmal, bordering $40 on dangerous due to the lack of lighting and some fields Sharks $40 $40 don’t even have toilet facilities onsite! There is very little o movement on the Fantasy odds board today which only accountability by clubs who shove an ice cream container makes the Warriors option even better after there fantastic in your face and expect you to know what to do and how Nwin over the weekend. Better get some of these fantastic much to pay. Where’s the sign that’s says how much too Fantasy odds while they last. pay! Smiles are RARE, Thank Yous are only said sometimes and NOT ALL PEOPLE PAY. The Fantasy Odds column is a hypothetical scenario based on the How many times have you seen a group of locals ignore writer’s opinion. This is NOT real the gatekeeper or mutter something then continue on their way. I’ve seen Heaps! RUGBY LEAGUE.. IS IT TRUE? When coming to a sports game often Scoreboards, Clocks IS IT TRUE even tables and chairs are as scarce as hen’s teeth. You sit The Gestapo Police (S.S) have infiltrated the CIRL on the ground sometimes littered with dog doodle, or last referees association - S.S – Shaun and Simi nights waste and even under garments from a amorous IS IT TRUE encounter during the week. The privileged few might be Panthers Hair Bear Prop Rongo got a haircut last week. Probably the reason why we couldn’t see him on the field under a shelter, on a seat or even inside the club – what IS IT TRUE about the rest! Noise control officers tell house owner near Avatiu Clubs could do well to go that extra mile and provide seating, clubrooms to turn down stereo - The soundtrack to the shelter and food but at the very least – A SMILE….. because a movie – Highlander -“There Can Only be One” was on auto SMILE COSTS YOU NOTHING……. So says SIMON the SEATLESS replay all weekend. IS IT TRUE Scores Last Week We await the result of the 2 new teams in the CIRL – Taua Knights v Simi Seals Game 8 IS IT TRUE Capt Tama (Sea Eagles) looking for a promotion. Might Eels 20 Panthers 18 soon be COACH TAMA aswell IS IT TRUE Bulldogs 24 Warriors 25 Seen the TV movie CHARLES in CHARGE? – watch the Bears v Sea Eagles (Did Not Play) sequel unfold in CIRL IS IT TRUE BYE - Sharks Takuvaine Warriors epic victory over Bulldogs – forgot story over the weekend because of League politics – Draw Wk 9 CONGRATULATION to the TKV Warriors – GO BOOGIE!!!! IS IT TRUE Sat March 22 The commentator said - 20 Fijians, a bald headed referee and a partrich in a pear tree. This equals 22 people where Bulldogs v Sharks, are the rest??? Temurimotia Pk Panthers v Warriors, Victoria Pk Sea Eagles v Eels, Nukupure Pk BYE – Bears PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 SPORTS 19 A premier rugby league game in Arorangi was not played over the weekend because of the lack of officials at the venue. Rumours of a referees boycott had been circling since the Wednesday. Brian Morgan reports on What SHAUN & SIMI Says…………… REFS PLAN B at venue. As a invite guest into The CIRLRA referees the lion dens for the association is upset that an emergency convened Cook official from the CIRL, Mr Islands Rugby League Taua Benioni (CIRL Games Referees Association director) has come along (CIRLRA) meeting I count and is now making the the number of those in referees appointments – attendance as I approach NOT the CIRLRA referees there gathering. A weary association.. According to eye yet not confrontational President Shaun Willis no one is beamed my way as I other sports body similar to meet and greet the referee theirs has this situation in members present. Ten in their code. At a recent club total have attended with 2 delegates meeting it was proxy’s given before hand it noted that 1 club (Warriors) is stated. CIRLRA President supported the refs to Shaun Willis gets Simi to continue with the job, 4 clubs open the meeting with a (Sea Eagles, Eels, Panthers pure and they quickly deal & Bulldogs) supported Taua with the business at hand Benioni to take over the Special Agenda job, and 2 were absent from • Nominate a new that meeting (Arorangi & Appointments director Sharks). Benioni was elected • Plan B if by the meeting and his first appointment not accepted effort in the refs allocations by CIRL was last weekend. John Whitta is appointed The CIRLRA referees CIRLRA Referees Games new stances is that they Allocation director and are prepared to work Sean Willis readily accepts the role. with Mr Benioni and have Discussion about how and made efforts to rectify the Week 9 Who they picked! who he is to work with is situation by appointing Mr “X” resolved and a resolution Mr Whitta. According to Sharks, Warriors, Sea Eagles is moved to forward his them, Mr Benioni’s actions Lawless appointment to the CIRL say quite clearly he is not Bulldogs, Panthers, Sea Eagles committee. The referees prepared to work with Grocers Review conduct at this meeting is in them. They have formulated Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels a cool and calm manner, Very a Plan B that in the event Queen Bee little emotion is apparent of Mr Whittas name not Sea Eagles Im here to get their side been accepted by CIRL, Jaoa of the events which it has the referees association Bulldogs, Panthers, Sea Eagles only been rumoured and members, who unanimously Vailima hearsay stories so far. It supported this line of action Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels quickly becomes apparent at last nights meeting, will OZ that a long historical path all take up alternative sports Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels of THINGS has happened and leisure activities instead Tattos R Me that has lead to the this league season. Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels current situation. What is A letter of the motions was Randwick Kingfisher THIS situation you might to be delivered this morning Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels ask – NO games played to the CIRL management. Son of Able in Arorangi – Bears v Sea Knowing the personalities Bulldogs, Panthers, Eels Eagles (Reserves and Prem involved WHAT DO YOU Boogies Heros grade) WHY? – Lack of refs THINK WILL HAPPEN????? Sharks, Warriors, Eels Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 VIEWS 20 Food Festival! By Norma Ngatamariki it was out of the ordinary and Festival has not been without What’s up, y’all! This week, fun for the class to do. Just to mishaps. People were running my article is solely based on the give you a heads up, we will around last minute, begging Tereora College Food Festival be selling chocolate fudge, their parents for some kind of which will be at the Te Atakura snowballs (the best), coconut help. I asked my mum for fruits Grounds (you know, across from ice, cookies, cupcakes, hokey and she agreed to pick them Telecom). It starts at 7:30 in the pokey and heaps of other treats (only because the fruits were morning and goes all the way to for those with a sweet tooth. free) but my fabulous friend 2:00 in the afternoon. Whoop We’ll definitely be the greatest Dean went ahead and asked his dee do! I’m not all that pumped dessert stall in the entire food mother for a sponsorship from up for the early start, but as festival (no joke). Westpac. Yay! The sponsorship for the selling food part, I’m Besides desserts, there will pack included cute, little piggy all for it. The school has taken also be umu and barbeque food. banks and squeezy toys. Thank the initiative because Tereora I believe that there will be a stall you Westpac! You guys were needs more resources for the selling Mexican food (I don’t a great help with our stall. We students as well as the staff. By want to be a traitor to my class, will be cooking up our yummy writing this article, I’m giving but I’m definitely going to check desserts pretty soon, so be the school free advertising, so out the Mexican food stall). prepared for a mouthful of I’m contributing in a way (Pfft). Knowing my family, they will “amazingness”. food. Even for those who don’t The students were told a all be rushing to the umu food So let me just take a second really prefer the island food, come month in advance that a Food (they have island appetites), so to talk about the umu food. It for the experience you will never Festival would be given the Dean and I (Dean is my partner will be delicious and for all you forget in trying the local cuisine. green light. My awesome Anau in crime) will be marketing our true-hearted 100% islanders, Come with empty stomachs, full class had made the decision stall to the best of our abilities. make sure to come out and wallets and an open-mind and to sell desserts and sweets on Watch out for two bright yellow check out the mouth-watering, support the school event of the the day. We even wanted to people (Ikurangi represent!) tender, succulent, mind-blowing year – The Tereora College Food do a Gaming Arena because The preparation for this Food awesomeness which is the umu Festival, KIA TOA! Year of the 96’ By Nadia George that excited about it anymore. going all out on her hair, make t’s finally here, the year I mean yeah it has its perks, up and outfit. Even going as far of the 96’s. I’m not sure but when I think about it. Like as strutting a pair of fairly high I if you’ve heard of this really think about it. I realize heels! Norma if you’re reading expression before, but all it that it’s just another year of this…you go girl, Sha-fierce! means, is that everyone who me growing older. And unlike To my cousin Anau, happy was born in the year 1996 most teens nowadays, id like to belated birthday, youre finally finally gets to turn the big hold onto my youthful-ness for eighteen, but feeling nineteen ONE-EIGHT! It’s one of the as long as possible. A couple and acting like you’re twenty- many milestones in a person’s of my friends has already hit one! Unfortunately, I wont be life where they really begin to eighteen and ill soon be next. able to celebrate my birthday transform from adolescence Last week Saturday, my in style. Instead I’ll be getting into adulthood. Thirteen cousin Anau celebrated his big some much needed retail marks the change from child ONE-EIGHT in style. With a big therapy in Auckland after my to teen, sixteen marks the fierce and flossy, birthday bash, weekend camp for Rotary. But year of finally being able to to celebrate his coming of age. hey, thank God for another drive legally, without the ever- Neither win nor rain could stop blissful year! present fear of being pulled us from celebrating. Mami, For many of us ninety-sixers, over by the PoPo. Then there’s Anau and I, spent hours in the this’ll be our final year of high eight-teen! cold rain getting everything school, then some may go When most people finally done for that night and I’m on to Universities, others, to hit this age, they tend to happy to say that it all paid another country for better think more about partying ‘til off, the set up was spectacular. opportunities. So what we got the breaking dawn’. No more Lights streamed all around to focus on is the ‘right now’ warming the rocks outside of us, the food was delicious factor. It’s a new year, a new you Rehab, but instead join in on and the company was great! and a brand new slate, filled all the ruckus that goes on at Everyone got their ‘crunk on’, with brand new opportunities. the hottest club on the island. with people even going as far So here’s to all the ninety-sixers “Sammy J come back please”. as twerking upside down on out there, make it count guys. Don’t get me wrong, all that the sides of the walls. We all Two thousand and fourteen, stuff sounds exciting, but to danced the night away, with come at me brah. be completely honest, I’m not my fellow columnist, Norma, #ninety-six #hashtags. PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 CHOOKS 21 There are a couple of issues the Te fix the two arson destroyed schools that Mato Vai crowd are not being transparent are now becoming a frustration for parents about. Firstly, what is the hook supposed who have had to resort to fundraising. to signify? It’s more NZ Maori rather than Talk, talk, and talk, it costs nothing and Cook Islands Maori, and did Deric Wolf it’s becoming Brown’s silly answer to every design it? If not who did and lastly why real problem. How about dipping into the was a non local chosen to carve it and $4 million and pay Arama for all those secondly, how much was he paid? Let’s tanks he has installed, just who is doing not dawdle on the answer, somebody out the subsidising? It isn’t Brown’s boring lot, there must know. only capable of gas bagging, blah, blah and more blah, blah. The new Edrey at the daily dribble can’t seem to make up his overheated The President of the Price Tribunal brain, ignoring advice to keep a hat on but didn’t get voted for a single one of follow suit because we are easy beats that failed to make one admission as to why to stop the hot sun frying his brain, a few them. There could be an opening at the can be walked over. our fuel rates are one of the highest days after the fresh editor’s repetitious Punanga Nui Market; they are looking in the Pacific. He conveniently points reiteration reminder that letters more than for volunteers to join their beautification Looks like the daily dribble doesn’t the finger at the retailer for their 28 300 words won’t be published he did just committee. know what news is more important. In cents per litre but hides the fact the that with Tim Tepaki’s letter of Tribute for Saturday’s edition the biggest political real culprit is the greedy government who Ariki Tamatoa which was over 550 words A family who had been waiting for reform in nearly fifty years and the PM get 50 cents a litre. That’s a lot of half long. Not only that, what’s happened to some time to get a male puppy as a pet Puna’s print media release was buried on dollars neneva Neves won’t be getting the smoke signal gossip section? Word is where delighted to have friends drop off page eight and a photo of him and story when we go 100 percent solar. the unconnected reporters are using it to last week, one exactly as required. Even of him planting a tree was the major news get story leads. If the Edrey isn’t using with the assurance he runs out side to breaking event on the front page. How The uninspiring tyrant Puna the the public contributions he should publish do his peeing, only trouble is the owners jolly impressive. As to the use of the word doesn’t care for pensioners PM had a statement of termination, too much sun were bewildered when the new arrival “sod,” was it referring to the PM or the a gibberish blast at a story run last on the uncovered head Edrey, and no began running inside to do his peeing dirt? When the government changes they week in the most popular news paper charge for the advice. and did a huge number two right on the will be all pulled out and new ones planted (this one of course) while talking his door step. It must be a dog thing about by the new PM and his C Team. usual rubbish on Radio Cook Islands. No one must have been more surprised staking out his territory, let’s hope he He claimed all’s well with him and the than the Heathers T&M when they didn’t doesn’t grow up, run away from home How many more Commissioners do Chinese and the story was nonsense. get a major cut of the Airport solar panel and join the roving mob of dogs that we need? Do they really need to have Well one question for Puna, what installation contract with Andersons. One delight in biting tourists. such a grandiose title to keep an eye on happened to the cancellation of the of their Directors didn’t make a secret commercial consumption, what is the Price China/Cook Island/NZ presentation of them going to be the contractor, talk What a shame we have a softly, softly Tribunal for? No wonder the public service by China at a very high powered about blowing the horn. lala for a PM, where is the warrior to is bloated and out of control or is it a conference in Mexico? Explain that one stand up and be counted even if it is manufactured job that is advertised but Puna. You can’t embarrass the Chinese News from the CIP National HQ against the Chinese? The saga of the shark already ear marked for someone, let’s hope and expect to get away with it, explain, (golf club) is a long standing member fin violation and the revelation Elvis Puna it’s not going to be another over paid and explain that one Puna. Stop using is getting the run around treatment was instrumental in letting them off the expat friend of the neneva fella. the Pitt Media to mislead the people; from the members. Unable to score a hook is nothing more than conceding to if you can’t tell the truth don’t waste Government appointment to a Board like fears of the super power despite our tough Instead of boasting about having a $4 the people’s time. Why didn’t you talk his insistent brother Mike, Stuart Henry laws against harvesting shark fins. Now the million dollar surplus the wimpy Finance about why you are frightened to have stood for every position at the golf club precedent has been set watch for others to Minister Brown should walk the talk and a CIP conference?

Where FAT CATS do we go? COCONUT ROUNDTABLE Number Rumour Penryhn 2, Cabinet have voted to has it, Government is to shift Why would be shift Parliament to Aitutaki! Parliament to Aitutaki. All Minister not Manihiki? better! remain in Rarotonga!

Mozzie Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 RELIGIOUS VIEWS 22 The Comfort of Being In Jesus Christ By Senior Pastor John Tangi uring these past weeks there has been Dso many deaths. Loved ones have passed on from this life. Families have been devastated, hurt and grieved supernatural and divine work for the lost of those so dear of the Holy Spirit in them to their lives. Their presence after receiving Jesus Christ in the home environment and as Lord and Saviour of their in the family will be greatly lives. II Corinthians 5v.17 missed. I Peter 5v.7 read (CEV) reads “Therefore, if anyone is “God cares for you, so turn all in Christ, he is a new creation, your worries over to Him.” “E old things have passed uri i to kotou tumatetenga away, behold, all things have katoa ki runga iaia, koia oki become new.” te tiaki mai ia kotou.” In (3) The positive change Psalm 116v.15 it reads (NKJV) in a person’s life because of “Precious in the sight of Jesus Christ certainly has the Lord is the death of His positive influence on the saints.” “E mea apinga maata lives of others. That is why i mua i te aroaro o Iehova te the Psalmist said in Psalm mate o tona ra aronga tapu.” 116v.15 “Precious in the sight The question is ‘Why is the of the Lord is the death of His death of believers in God (or saints.” “E mea apinga maata Jesus Christ) precious in His i mua i te aroaro o Iehova te sight?’ mate o tona ra aronga tapu.” (1) Because the finished Therefore the passing work of Jesus Christ on the away of a person who have cross on Calvary, the blood He received Jesus as Lord and shed on that cross to cleanse Saviour of his or her life us of our sins and unrighteous is not an occasion to be ways has been recognised by grieved about or to mourn, the saints of God. The saints but rather a moment worthy believed that Jesus died for of celebration and rejoicing them. The same power of because that individual has God that raised Jesus from gone to be with the Lord the dead will also raise them Jesus Christ. Jesus said in John also.” Saviour of your life while (saints and believers in Jesus 14v.1-3 “Let not your heart I encourage those whose you have the opportunity Christ) from the dead in the be troubled, you believe in loved ones has passed on to do so. If you want help or future. They also believed God, believe also in Me. in from this life, if they have guidance or advice on this that Jesus is the way, the My Fathers house are many received Jesus as Lord and matter I encourage you to truth and the life. As such, mansions, if it were not so, I Saviour of their lives then give me a ring on 27111 or the saints believed that only would have told you, I go to you have nothing to worry 54411. Isaiah 55v.6 reads through Jesus Christ they will prepare a place for you. And about. However if they have “Seek the Lord while He may have eternal life. if I go and prepare a place not then it can’t be helped. be found, call upon Him while (2) The saints believed for you, I will come again and Therefore for those who are He is near.” that the positive change in receive you to Myself, that still alive I encourage you May you have a God blessed their lives was due to the where I am, there you may be to receive Jesus as Lord and week. PB

Cook islands Herald 26 March 2014 CLASSIFIEDS 23 PUBLIC NOTICE VACANCY

MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS SOCIAL IMPACT FUND (SIF) 2013/2014 NZAID PROJECT FUNDING SHORT TERM TRAINING AWARDS (STTA) The SIF provides combined Cook Islands and New Zealand Employers wishing to develop staff skills through STTA are invited support to Cook Islands Civil Society Sector to meet the to apply for assistance under the NZID Bilateral Aid training needs of those most vulnerable in the community and Programme. This can include new short courses and attachments is focused on 6 priority areas: Gender equality, Children in workplaces or training organizations. We have 4 placements & Youth, Disabilities, The Elderly, Domestic Violence and available for this Financial Year. Mental Health. Studies to complete tertiary certificates and diplomas will not be The SIF Board now invite proposals for Project Funding eligible under this programme. in the following eligible project areas STTA will not be awarded where the proposed training is available in-country. • Community Education Projects For further information and application forms, contact Anna Roi • Training on ph 29357 ext. 245 or email [email protected] • Workshops Application forms must be received no later than 12pm Thursday • Awareness raising activities 3rd April 2014. • Income generation • Organisational Strengthening

Please note Infrastructure projects and International travel are not encouraged, but will be considered on a case by case basis. For further inquiries please contact the SIF Manager on MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE COOK ISLANDS telephone 29378 or email [email protected] (ICI) Ministry of Internal Affairs. The deadline for submission of Request for Quotes– WATSAN Communications Advisor Project Funding Application is Thursday 24 April 2014. No applications will be accepted after this date. ICI requests for quotes from suitably qualified, experienced, highly motivated and enthusiastic persons for the position of WATSAN Communications Advisor in its Water, Waste and Sanitation (WATSAN) Unit to coordinate the implementation and delivery of the Communications work stream within the Unit. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a team, tasked with making improvements in infrastructure, policy and practice that will contribute to protecting and enhancing the lagoon and ocean environments around our islands.

WATSAN requires specialist communications advice and assistance in order to complete implementation of critical elements of the Waste Management Initiative (WMI) and the upcoming Sanitation Upgrade Programme (SUP). It proposes to engage the Communications Advisor on a short-term contract in order to provide the required expertise and input.

If you are interested in this position, a copy of the ToR can be provided upon which you will be required to submit as part of your request for quotes, a covering letter and CV along with your proposed quotes to: Mr Mac Mokoroa Secretary Infrastructure Cook Islands PO Box 102 Rarotonga Cook Islands

The closing date for request for quotes is 3pm on Friday 4th April 2014

For more information or a copy of the TOR please contact Tangi Taoro by phone on 20-321 or by email at [email protected]