the Cook Islands Herald

Cook islands Herald 24 July 2013n e w s2Foreign investors appealBy Charles PittAfter trying for two yearsto sell the Samade BeachBungalows in Aitutaki,the owners on 7 March 2013,finally thought they had secureda sale albeit to foreign investors(husband and wife) from NewZealand. The BTIB had approvedtheir application to purchase, inprinciple.The owners were happy, theforeign investors were happy butjust one day later, the 8 March,the foreign investors wereinformed by the BTIB that theirMinister had asked the Boardto reconsider their application.Apparently the Minister haddone this on 7 March. Thereasons were not known to theforeign investors.Without the foreign investor’sknowledge, Minister for Tourism,Teina Bishop and Thomas Kotekaentered the picture with theiroffer to purchase the Samade.The BTIB advised the foreigninvestor’s lawyers on 23 Marchthat their application wasrescinded (but not declined)while the BTIB waited to see ifBishop and Koteka finalized theiroffer to purchase.As Cook Islanders had enteredthe frame, the foreign investor’slawyers were advised thatpriority under the investmentpolicy, lay with locals.Bishop and Koteka securedBTIB Board decisionthe Samade and the foreigninvestors were advised of this on1 May.Now very concerned andunhappy, the foreign investorslodged an appeal on 20 May withthe Minister as required underthe legislation, the DevelopmentInvestment Act 1995-96.The lawThis Act provides for an AppealCommission to be appointed,comprising five membersappointed by Cabinet, consistingof 3 members recommended bythe Minister and two membersrecommended by the Leader ofthe opposition. Cabinet appointsa Chair from among this five.The Appeal Commission canonly be convened upon theMinister receiving an appeal inwriting.The Appeal Commission mayreverse the decision of the Boardsubject to such conditions as theCommission may have imposed.As at 28 June, more thana month after the appealwas lodged, Cabinet had stillnot appointed the AppealCommission. The foreigninvestor’s lawyer then served anotice of motion on 2 July, onthe Minister for MFEM, HonMark Brown and the AttorneyGeneral, Prime Minister HonHenry Puna of a High Courthearing on 2 August to hear thematter.The Minister then submittedthree names for the AppealCommission, Navy Epati, SamCrocombe and Iaveta Short.However, Iaveta Short hasdeclined and another personis being sought. The Leader ofthe Opposition has submitted 2names, Mark Short and TeuiraKa.Why appeal?The reason given for theappeal is twofold. Firstly theforeign investors are dissatisfiedwith the Board’s decision andsecondly the matter is of nationalimportance.The foreign investors say theywere shocked that applicationsmade in good faith can betreated in such cavalier fashion.Considerable funds and efforthad been committed by theinvestors.The foreign investors believe itis of national importance that thebureaucracy be seen to be actingproperly and without undueinfluence. Failure to ensure this,they say, could impact on thewillingness of people to invest inthe Cook Islands.They want the appeal toproceed as a matter of principle.Ramifications?What has occurred in thiscase goes to the heart of thelegislation and whether itsprovisions are stringent enoughto prevent political interferenceand influence in specific cases.The Act was designed toencourage investment as well asregulate it. A critical ingredientfor encouraging investmentis to ensure investors haveconfidence in, and certaintyfrom bureaucratic institutions.When a Board grants anapproval (albeit in principle)and then reverses it,confidence in the competenceof such Board and its freedomfrom improper interference, isdiminished.The foreign investor’s legalrepresentative is of the opinionthat under the legislation there isno mandate for the BTIB Board todiscuss specific applications withthe Minister and no mandate fora Minister to give directions inrelation to them.In this case it is alleged thatMinister Brown, given hisMinisterial colleague’s (Bishop)involvement, made a specificdirection in the face of anobvious conflict of interest.Minister Bishop advised theHerald that a substantial upgradeof the Samade is planned.

Cook islands Herald 24 July 2013Political view3Congratulations to ourpermanent residentsBy Wilkie Rasmussen, Leader ofthe OppositionIn this column I convey onbehalf of the OppositionCaucus Members ofParliament and the DemocraticParty sincere congratulations toall those that was awarded theirPermanent Resident certificatesyesterday at the Auditorium.To be honest it was one of theshortest ceremonies that I haveever been to. Everyone wasseated by 9.30 am and by 10 amthe programme was under waywith the outgoing Minister ofForeign Affairs and ImmigrationTom Marsters adjudicating overproceedings. He commented toall that this ceremony coincidedwith daily bread readings wherethe word of God touched onpeople of nations not to mistreatpeople from other nations livingamongst them.As I watched the proceedingsa couple of things stood out inmind. One, our country is thericher and better because ofthese people that have chosento dedicate their lives to theCook Islands. Two, my friendTom Marsters is parting frompolitics with a great diplomaticand humane gesture of grantingthese PR’s. There are somecritics out there that do not likethe fact that other people arebeing allowed to live in the CookIslands. Some critics assert thatsome PR’s use the Cook Islandsas a launching pad to get to NewZealand but apparently that isfar from the truth. You do notautomatically get New Zealandcitizenship if you become a CookIslands PR.The ceremony was given asomewhat sweet moment ofrecognition for Nana Hauser,the “whale rider” , who hasdone much for the Cook Islandsprofile as a leading countryin terms whale, marine lifeprotection and awareness. Shewas honoured with the right tospeak for all the recipients and ofcourse she very aptly started offby saying that “We are so luckyto live in this beautiful country”.Then I a moving moment of herspeech she said, “When I amout there 10 miles from landwith the whales, I look ashore tothis beautiful country sitting onthe horizon and tears roll downmy cheeks”. To me the honourbelongs to the Cook Islands tohave someone like her make thiscountry her home.To my surprise there werealso others who had beenliving in the Cook Islands for upto 30 years but never applieduntil now. I noted one of thepioneers of black pearl farmingin Manihiki, Eves Tschaipan whois ordinarily resident in Tahiti.He had contributed much tothe Cook Islands economy withhis pearl farming operationsand employment in Manihiki.That was a nice reciprocitybetween the country and Eves.Well, I also saw of my friendsin there beaming with smilesthat brightened up the wholeauditorium.With every good occasion,there has to be some sadness. Iam sure the Minister of Financewho also there at the ceremonywill agree with me in sharingthat such will probably thelast public act as Minister forImmigration that Tom Marsterswill be doing. We all know thathe moves on to take over themantle of being the Head of Stateas replacement for Sir FrederickGoodwin who is retiring. Thisgiant of a man ambling aroundin the auditorium with themost sincere heart to helppeople will be sadly missedby those that know him welland by all. Typical of his gentlehumor, he leaned across to meafter the ceremony and saidI hope you don’t get jealouswith me getting all the kisses.No, my freind you truly are agentleman in politics and inlife in general and I know youwill hold the office of Queen’sRepresentative very well.SWITCH ON WITHTe Aponga UiraUnplug unused electronicsTry to switch off appliancesthat are not in use, rather thanleave them on standby. Thisincludes your TV, computer,DVD player or stereo.Remember as well to unplugyour mobile phone charger.It might seem like a drop inthe ocean, but you could savea few kilowatt hours and acouple of bucks for the sake offlicking a switch.www.teaponga.com

Cook islands Herald 24 July 2013S p o r t s4Boxing’s main attraction ThursdayBy Charles PittAt the next big “FightNight” to be stagedby the Cook IslandsAmateur Boxing Association(CIABA) at Avatea School hallon Thursday evening, CookIslander Jubilee Arama’s SuperHeavyweight bout with GeddonDolan from Sydney, Australia,will be the main attraction.Arama himself is based in Tahitiand Dolan is a part Cook Islanderhimself. Dolan boxed in Sydneyunder the very experiencedcoach Graham Taylor who is nowbased in Rarotonga and still hasDolan under his wing.Both National Coach TomMarsters and Arama visited andspoke with the Herald on Tuesdaymorning. Arama who last weighedhimself at 99kg, admitted he knewnothing about Dolan. Arama ‘s lastfight was a year ago.Arama represented theCook Islands at the lastWe’re delighted to be39 yearscelebrating overAir New Zealand is proudto support Careers Expo 2013Commonwealth Games held inDelhi in 2010 where, as one ofthe youngest competitors, heacquitted himself well againstolder, more experienced boxers.Also visiting the Heraldwas Latishia Maui. Locals willrecall she is the older sister ofthe highly talented NationalWomen’s Sevens and NetballRep Teiva Maui.Latishia is home after living fora while in NZ. While in NZ she gotinvolved in Corporate Boxing as afemale boxer and had one fightafter training for a year. Thatwas over 5, two minute rounds.At this stage she is on thefitness comeback trail and willbe attending Thursday night’sevent. She has no opponentlined up says Tom Marsters butif some woman steps forward,an exhibition bout to promotewomen’s boxing, will take place.For her part, Latishia is looking toboxing as a means to get fit.of flying to theCook IslandsThe Cook Islands is one of the most beautiful,untouched locations in the world. On 1 December1973 Air New Zealand flew to Rarotonga forthe first time. Over 39 years have passed sincethen and it’s still paradise. We are proud to becelebrating over 39 years of flights betweenNew Zealand and the Cook Islands and we lookforward to touching down here for many moreyears to come.airnewzealand.co.nzJunior cricket onthese school holidaysBy Charles PittCook Islands Crickethas arranged fourtournaments during theschool holidays for boys andgirls, supported by their majorsponsor, ANZ Bank.First off will be a tournamentfor under 10s boys and girls8 a side teams, from 29 Julyto 30 July at Te Uki Ou Schooland Turangi cricket park. Thetournament for under 13s boysand girls will also kick off at thesame time and date at TakitumuSchool Matavera cricket field,also 8 a side. It is free to registerfor these events, just contactCook Islands Cricket on ph 20744,or Apii on 51522 or Ronnie onJubilee Arama, Latishia Maui72981 or ask your school for acricket team. There will be coolprizes on offer for the winningteams, top batters and bowlersand just for giving it a go.On 31 July to 1 August, atRaemaru Park, there will bethe under 19 girls tournament,11 a side and the under 17sboys tournament, 11 a side. Itis free to register, just contactthe numbers mentioned above.There will be excellent prizes onoffer, $150 cash for the winnerand prizes for the top batters andbowlers.These tournaments promise tobe great fun so parents, get yourkids registered and active theseholidays.Cook IslandsHerald goes QRThe Cook Islands Herald nowhas a QR (Quick Response) code.Simply scan this code into yourIphone or Smartphone and it willautomatically take you to theHerald Website in your phone’sinternet browser.

Cook islands Herald 24 July 2013S p o r t s5Who’s who at the Bowls Cook IslandsNational Lawn Bowls Championship26th July – 10 Aug , 2013By Ben Mose (BCI Media)Rarotonga Bowling Club venue will be the centre of attentionfor the next couple of weeks. Local and International Lawnbowlers will pull out all the tricks and skills to master allthe four disciplines that made up the National C’Ship. Starting thiscoming Friday with the Queensland bowlers roll up practice andjoining the National on Saturday at the Grand Opening.With 112 local lawn bowlers including about 3 local players fromAuckland, 10 teams for men and 8 teams for women made up of 58men and 54 women.Arorangi Bowling ClubManagers : Iro Rangi/ N. RangiBen Mose Anna KairuaAlex Kairua Evelyn HenryAfofo Anthony Kathy MataioVaine Henry Mama TotiC. Smithies H. GrahamA. Fariu Tony ForbesRingo StarAitutaki BC “A”Manager : Philip Tangi/T. MichellArama Tera Porea ElizaTere Williams Tamoe TangipiWillyn Karika M. GoldsworthyMoi Robati Linda MitchellNukuroa Bowling ClubTatuava TouMou TokorangiNgatoko Junior Linda VaviaT. Pennycook Mata AkaviL. Makara Taru GrahamA. Makara Cima MakaraM. Story Henrica MaraunaRarotonga B.C.G. Paniani T. BrowneSir FredrickR. NewhamMia TuteruK. VaileVeia ManiM. AkaruruW. Wichman A. UrlichV. Pittman M. HowardJ. Ngavaevae T. PanianiPapa Dan KamanaRakahanga B. C.W. Powell Marie MelvinThomas Ben Tai TangiC. Numanga Aua NumangaB. Numanga M. PowellC. Elikana J. GraigT. Mahia Tiare JimT.RakeiPitia HokouaAitutaki BC “B”Noo Mataio N. AramaV. Rairoa Emily TangiEric Ponia B.NgatikaoMati Mitchell K. TetauruAporo Kirikava Mere TiroTe-Iva AramaMangaia Bowling ClubPita Totoo Nane TereP. Papatua K. RubenaA. Rairoa Mene RLarry Tumai Noora TotooAngeline NAtiu Bowling ClubTangata Tou D. PanianiNelson Akava C. PanianiNga Rairoa N. DanielIoane Tou D. MaeaTere Daniels Marie RairoaT. MatearikiMauke Bowling ClubMata J RangiR. AkaruruP. Urlich Irene TupunaN. Tairea M. AkaruruP.TuaputaR. Van DykB. Foster Rere WildinE. Tupuna K.Tetauru

Cook islands Herald 24 July 20136NEWSOur Cover GirlOur front page girl this week Herald Issue 676 is 25 yearold Cassie Hycenko. Cassie has been in Aitutaki for the past4 weeks volunteer teaching at Vaitau Primary School. Shehas been studying primary education in Australia. Randominteresting fact about Cassie- her uncle set up Tattslotto herein Rarotonga. Check out our website www.ciherald.co.ck. andfacebook page: www.facebook.com/ciheraldMedia issues to beaddressed at ForumBy Charles PittMembers of theCook Islands MediaAssociation andother interested parties will beattending a one day Forum onmedia issues, next Tuesday, July30th at the Edgewater Resort.The Forum is being facilitatedby the Pacific Media AssistanceScheme (PACMAS).PACMAS recently concludeda study of challenges facingNational Media Associations(NMA) in the Pacific. This study(available at www.pacmas.org) identifies a number ofapproaches to address some ofthese challenges.In particular, it recommendsbringing together mainstreammedia and other mediapractitioners in the hope torevitalise and strengthen mediacommunities in each country.Such media ‘forums’ havealready been organised withencouraging success in Vanuatu,Tonga and Fiji.PACMAS expects the Forumto be a useful gathering. Inparticular, local media should beable to help PACMAS identify keypriorities that can be supported.Media Associations andother media industry bodiesplay a crucial role in supportingdevelopment through thepromotion of a professional,independent and pluralisticmedia.Shona Pitt, Pitt Media GroupDirector will speak at theForum on Cook Islands TV andNews training. Tereora Collegemedia studies students are alsoexpected to attend one of themorning sessions.PACMASProgramManagement Group member,Jean-Gabriel Manguy, is theForum facilitator.News BriefsThe Catholic community of Auckland is hosting all thosepast Bishop(s) who have served in the Cook Islands andthis will include Bishop Paul Donaghuey from Rarotonga,Fr. Freddy Kaina and Fr. John Rovers from Mauke. This specialMass will be held on the 4th August, at St. Therese in Mangere.During this special mass there will be the unveiling for the Fr.Theobald - he has written many Catholic teachings in CookIslands Maori.Pacific Radio, Niu FM Cook Islands Maori, announced thatthe PM and his delegation will be in Wellington earlynext month and the Cook Islands community there willbe hosting them.-From Charlie Rani in Auckland

Cook islands Herald 24 July 2013 8NEWSUnleash your full potential -Tourism iPad mini competitionThe Cook Islands TourismCorporation is passionateabout seeing morestudents unleash their fullpotential especially within thetourism industry and as anincentive is giving away an iPadmini as part of the 2013 CareersExpo. With most students beingproud owners of a Smartphonedevice, Tourism Cook Islands isjumping on the band wagon andoffering students the chanceto win an Apple iPad mini withprotective case.To win the Apple iPad ministudents are asked to producea 60sec video clip with the title‘#mycookislands’. As the titlesuggests Cook Islands Tourismwants to see and hear fromstudents on how they wouldpromote their country to visitors.A music track with lyrics will beprovided to the students butthey have free will to change itup if they wish too. Students canuse either still or moving imagesto create their master piece.In addition for all the hardwork the students will put intoproducing their 60sec videoclip, Cook Islands Tourism willalso be giving away an AitutakiDay Tour for two courtesy ofAir Rarotonga to the runner up.The competition will run for twoweeks during the school holidaysclosing on Friday 09 August 2013.Cook Islands Tourismunderstands that not allstudents have access to theinternet or video editingsoftware at home so areoffering time slots availablefor students to come in andproduce their video clip atCook Islands Tourism.To register for the competitionstudents must visit the CookIslands Tourism booth at the2013 Careers Expo and talkto one of the staff members.Students must be 18yrs andunder and must be attendingone of the schools coming to theCareers Expos. Full details andconditions of the competitionwill be provided to the studentson registration.Cook Islands Tourism will alsobe giving away other greatprizes during the Careers Exposo be sure to visit their booth.Prizes such as a Captain TamasLagoon Cruise for two and anEdgewater Island Night for twocan be won by simply answeringa few questions based on theDigital Information Kiosks ownedNews Briefsby Simon & Anne-Marie Bounsallwhich will be on display at thebooth.Cook Islands Tourism looksforward to seeing more CookIslanders take up career paths inthe diverse range of employmentopportunities within thetourism industry so are proudto be supporting Careers Day2013. For more information onthe Tourism booth at the 2013Careers Expo visit our websitewww.cookislands.travel/events- Tourism Corp Media Release- By TeRiu WoontonLast Tuesday, 2000 baits were distributed by the Air Rarotonga Scenic Flight airplane in themountain region of Rarotonga which attract and kill the male oriental fruit fly. Maja fromMinistry of Agriculture tells Cook Islands Herald that there has been a swift decline in the numberof Oriental fruit flies on Rarotonga, since the eradication program. There are 160 traps set aroundRarotonga, which are being checked every Wednesday of the week. Cook Islands Herald understandsthat there have been zero to 3 oriental fruit flies found in the traps in the past 4 weeks and areas that thepest has been discovered will be sprayed, which attracts and kills the female oriental fruit fly. Althoughthe number of the oriental fruit fly has decreased on Rarotonga, Aitutaki remains infested with the pest.No fruits are allowed to be taken out of Aitutaki at any time, to any other island. Next week a team fromNew Zealand and Fiji will go to Aitutaki to hold a one week program to eliminate the oriental fruit fly.They will conduct the distribution of the baits, set up traps, spray and guide farmers and agricultureworkers on how to distinguish the oriental fruit fly from other pests. Ministry of Agriculture, Rarotongawill be monitoring the eradication program. Cook Islands Herald understands there is still the risk of theoriental fruit fly eggs in fruits therefore it is strongly urged that all fallen or rotten fruits be collected, putinto bags and taken to the Ministry, fed to the pigs or buried.On Monday, the 6 water intakes around Rarotonga were below 50%, however after the heavyrain yesterday Adrian Teotahi from Ministry of Water Works says that all water intakes are from75 to 100% full with water. The water intake level situation should last a while, consideringeach household conserves and manages their water. The team from Ministry of Works are currentlyclearing debris from the intakes, so water should be clear and back to normal by Friday. If you areexperiencing any problems with your water situation or would like to report a broken pipe, call Adrianon 20321.

Cook Islands Renewable EnergyMapping the path forwardIf you want to get an unfussyhandle on the inroadsbeing made by renewableenergy on Rarotonga thisarticle should help.The first place to look isthe announcement in 2011by Government of renewableenergy targets, the first targetbeing 50% of electricity tobe supplied from renewableenergy sources by 2015. Thisdate is just around the cornerreally and so 2015 will be thefirst test of whether we are ontrack to achieve this wish. Thesecond target is 2020 wherethe goal is for renewableenergy sources to supply100% of our electricity needs.Prior to the announcement ofthe new renewable energy targets,the development ambition forthe take up of renewable energyhad been more along the lines ofslow and steady. Te Aponga Uira’smission then was just to adoptaffordable and clean renewableenergy solutions to supplementthe use of fossil fuel in providingelectricity. And so homeownerswith solar PVs and wind turbineswere offered the chance toconnect their systems to theisland’s power grid in a schemeknown as net metering. TAU alsoerected a demonstration solar PVarray in its car park in Tutakimoa.TheGovernmentannouncement of the 2015 and2020 targets was a definite gamechanger however. It forced arethink because until then no onehad contemplated the completeabandonment of diesel fuel. Afterall, diesel fuel had some realadvantages not to be scoffed at,the main one being you could useit in any quantity you wanted atany time you needed to producepower.While diesel was bad for theenvironment in terms of carbonemissions and always subject toprice rises that feed inevitably intohigher power costs, the decisionto go completely renewableenergy nevertheless still came asa radical departure.Phase 1 then became a matterfor TAU of figuring out howto implement this new policyand even more so how to doit cost-effectively. This meantundertaking tons of research andconsultation with experts, hereTe Aponga Uira rooftopand overseas, over a period ofapproximately 18 months. Theend result is that we now have agood idea of how to proceed.As you monitor the progress ofrenewable energy in Rarotongakeep in mind the idea of lowhanging fruits first and highhanging fruits last. This picturewill give you an idea of movingthrough different stages, knowingthat it’s always the low hangingfruits that are going to be pickedoff first.In phase 2 which begins in thenext financial year, you will see PVarrays being erected atop somegovernment buildings. They willincrease the flow of renewableenergy into the grid and thisshould bring the goal for the 2015electricity supply within reach. Itshould be noted that the 2015goal is not only dependent onthe supply of renewable energybut also the impact of energyefficiency measures such asthe recent CFL light bulb andthe fridge/ freezer replacementcampaigns.Look to phase 3 to begin in theperiod 2016-2020, which is thetime when the issue of energystorage must be confronted.This is so because the gridcannot function at high levels ofpenetration from solar energyalone. It will then be urgentfor TAU to employ some formof mini-hydro and/ or batteriesto store energy that can usedto balance out the fluctuationscaused by PV.This overview is in a nutshell thepath TAU is following in an effortto achieve our goal for 2020.www.TeAponga.com

Cook islands Herald 17 July 2013 11NEWSBishop’s turn to put upGovernment underseige as new gate addedThe Bounty fishing vessel berthed at the Aitutaki Harbour - Sold by Bishop but still in his possessionWhen lawyer, touristaccommodator andlong time recreationalfisherman Ruben Tylor publicallyraised his concerns regardingMarine Resources Minister TeinaBishop’s cosy engaging businessrelationship with the Chinesefishing giant Luen Thai, Tylor’smotives were challenged in nouncertain terms through themedia and Bishop called on himto “put up or shut up.”It has taken months for Tylorto put up because getting factualdocumented information isno easy task under the OfficialInformation Act (OIA). Tylor’slengthy “put up” by way of aletter to the editor of the CookIslands News on 16 July hascertainly opened a can of wormsthat cast a long shadow of doubtover the political integrity ofBishop.Public reaction to Tylor’s “putup” is now a red alert concernfor the Cook Islands Party as wellas their Government. With bothBishop and the Prime MinisterHenry Puna overseas whenTylor’s letter was published,it’s politically a long wait for anofficial response to “Bishopgate.”By the time of their return theissue will be beyond damagecontrol forcing the government’sspin doctor into the difficultoption of damage limitation.The Ministry’s defensiveresponse from Secretary BenParliament Norman George’s“Bishopgate”media intervention(CI News 18 July) to put Bishop’slatest corruption allegations andperceived impropriety to restought to be settled by an inquiryconducted by an outside identitywould give public the confidencethese serious issues are notPublic reaction to Tylor’s “putup” is now a red alert concernfor the Cook Islands Party aswell as their Government.Ponia was typical in that itclaimed Tylor was mischiefmongering with false allegations.It may be Ponia cannot totallyseparate himself from Bishop’sdealings with his fisheriesadvisor Samuel Chou and LuenThai Fishing Ventures localcompany Huanan Fishery (CookIslands) Ltd and he needs to “putup” his own defence in the nameof transparency.Independent Member ofbeing swept under the carpet.George also claims Ministerialcorruption is not exclusive toBishop but shamelessly widespread in the CIP government.Not everybody’s favouriteson in the Cook Islands Party,Bishop’s past political damageinflicted on the Party is still freshin many minds. Fortunate to berepresenting a safe seat Bishopfails to understand his politicalantics affect the CIP brand andhave made it extremely difficultto convince some constituenciesto come on board.Whatever misadventureBishop embroils himself intomakes no difference to thesecurity of his constituencyseat, but to other MPs anycontroversy that provokes inswing away from the CIP brand isa serious threat to their politicalsurvival. To lessen the burdenBishopgate dumps on their PMthe CIP Executive may take theinitiative and invite Bishop toformally appear before them togive an account in the contextof Party interests and reputationdamage to their brand.Friend or not, for the sakeof his own leadership integrityPM Puna and that of the Party,Puna has to be decisive andwin the confidence of his Partymembers and the voters atlarge. Defending Bishop is agrey area Puna must avoid if heis to squash any perception hecondones corruption within hisranks.Norman George has been acontinued next page

Cook islands Herald 17 July 2013 12FEATUREGolden Tuna only Cook Islands in name?Minister of MarineResources TeinaBishop’s generouslypublicised Cook Islands GoldenTuna project may not be the realdeal. Bishop must be applaudedfor his initiative and drive toinsist some of the catch in ourwaters by foreign operators isreturned to the Cook Islands ineasily and affordable produce.The initial intent was tohave Cook Islands caught tunaprocessed and canned in PagoPago (American Samoa) bythe Starkist cannery but thathas changed with Cook IslandsGolden Tuna being processed inChina under the oversight of HuaNan Fishery a subsidiary of LuenThai Fishing Venture Ltd.In a document titled;MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENTwritten in English and Chinesethere is one sentence that raisesthe question of authenticityand genuine product. It readsas follows; The fish used forthese products to be suppliedby Hua Nan vessels to fish inFrom previous pageconstant critic of Puna for beingsoft and unable to control hisMinisters. To over look Bishop’slatest controversy will onlyreinforce the public’s perceptionPuna is a “yes Minister’s” PrimeMinister.Bishopgate is one of thosedark moments leaders dreadas it raises the question in theirown mind the worth of beingthe Leader. Puna is corneredand confronted with a verysensitive political challenge thatwill unquestionably define hisleadership.The PM may need to bereminded of a past incidentwhere his mentor Sir GeoffreyHenry was being cornered by DrJoe Williams and Tom Marsters,PM Henry red carded themboth from his Cabinet. Orderwas restored and Sir Geoffrey’sleadership was put beyondquestion.If Puna exerts his leadershipin his efforts to get the housein order the Party will resist anyfuture internal challenges tohis solidified leadership. Punacan do a Pontius Pilate act andengage an independent identityThe launching of the Golden Tuna Brand last August at the Avatiu Wharf.urban Cook Islanders increasetheir alarmingly low level offish consumption. Researchindicates the average per capitaconsumption is 25 kilogramsper year compared with theWorld Health Organisation’srecommended 35 kilogramsto meet basic nutrition healthrequirements and address noncommunicable diseases (NCD).At the launch of the GoldenTuna brand in August last yearBishop said, “Tuna is a valuableCook Islands Economic Zone andother Pacific island nations.Does it really matter wherethe fish is caught when theyall taste the same? Well somewould argue that depends whatit says on the label. If the can’slabel says Cook Islands GoldenTuna and the contents arefrom another country’s EEZ willanyone lose any sleep over it? Isour reputation at stake?The underlying purposeof Bishop’s desire is to haveBishop’s turn to put upto investigate as Norman Georgeis exhorting or he can hand thematter over to Audit or PERCA.Puna also has the tough optionof relieving Bishop of the Ministryof Marine Resources and givinghim a yellow card with time inthe naughty boy’s seat. Bishophas to wake up to the politicalreality throwing his weightaround on his Aitutaki patch isn’ttransferable to Rarotonga.To ensure the Ministry avoidsany further perceived moralfailures a Marine AdvisoryBoard should be established toensure the principles of goodgovernance are appropriated.Now that Marine Resourceshas created a diversion from theircharter to become investmentfocused they cannot be allowedto operate under the radarwith a “law unto themselvesattitude” but must now be heldaccountable to a Board andbecome corrupt proof.Central to the Bishopgatescandal is the sale and purchaseof the fishing boat Bounty. To beclarified; before the Bounty couldbe sold to a foreign purchaserBusiness Trade Investment Boardrequires the sale to be tenderedor advertised for sale locallyover a predetermined period.If no local buyer is forthcomingthe business can be sold to aforeigner.By definition, if the vesselhas a fishing licence it is thebusiness therefore is subjectedto BTIB scrutiny in the contextof the Development InvestmentAct 1995-6. Bishop’s failureintentionally or otherwise toconduct the sale according toBTIB regulations commits anoffence and shall be liable onconviction to a fine not exceeding$2,000.Huanan Fishing (CI) Ltd’spurchase of the Bounty withoutBTIB approval is also a matter tobe investigated.Added to Bishop’s Bountywoes is the question of hisconnection to illegal fishingwithin legal limits off Manuae.Local fishermen claim news wasreceived from Aitutaki the catchwas photographed showing fishcaught weren’t deep sea fish.The photos as evidence wereforwarded to Rarotonga to theMinistry of Marine’s office butnothing has eventuated.Could Secretary Ponia clarifycommodity and as the resourceowner, we have some excitingoptions to explore. But we haveto begin to engage with fishingcompanies, processors andmarkets at some point and this isreally what today is about. Stepone is to get our products landedonshore”.Well said Minister Bishop, butis there any certainty the fish inthe can is ours? Then again doesit really matter if it’s low cost andaffordable? -By George Pittthis concern or does thispublication need to publish thephotos for public consumption?If his Minister is in breach ofthe law then Bishop needs tobe fined just as was formersitting Democratic MP for AkaoaTapi Taio was for breaching thetwelve mile fishing limit offMatavera. Unlike Bishop, Taioa first time indirect offenderwho was penalised for anundisclosed sum in 2002 didnot know what his Fijian skipperwas knowingly doing, as theowner of the vessel Taio waslegally held responsible for theskipper’s actions.If Huanan Fishing (CI) Ltd isthe owner of the Bounty thendespite who is the skipper,they are liable and consideredresponsible for unlawfully fishingwithin local waters.Prime Minister Puna is nowconfronted with a goliathchallenge which offers himthe opportunity to restoreconfidence in the CIP brand,cement his leadership anddemonstrate without fear orfavour he is the undisputedcaptain of the CIP vaka.- By George Pitt

Cook islands Herald 17 July 201313NEWSPay rises to sustain culture of secrecy?Marine’s Ponia defies transparent accountabilityMinistry of MarineResources secretaryBen Ponia’s refusalto co-operate with the AuditOffice and PERCA’s attempts tointerview him has left politicalobservers mystified. Somewherethis siege mentality has beenallowed to go unaccounted.The rumour mill has it Poniahas plenty to hide and the onlyreason he can blatantly buck thesystem is because he’s protectinghis Minister Teina Bishop who inreturn is protecting him.The public perceptionis that MMR is becomingsynonymous with compromisesand corruption which if leftunchecked any longer, will doirreparable damage to the CookIslands Party brand with itsconsequences manifested at thenext general elections.According to the Minister ofboth Audit and PERCA, MarkBrown, he is unaware Poniahad refused to give an accountin response to a complaintforwarded to both Ministries. Itis public knowledge Ponia hasrefused to provide the AuditOffice/PERCA with specificallyrequested information. It is publicknowledge Bishop is aware ofPonia’s compliance refusal.The failure for any authorityto pull Ponia into line raises aseries of questions that concernthe integrity of Minister Bishop,Director of Audit Alan Parker,the PERCA chairperson andthe accountability process.What is it that gives Ponia theconfidence he can defy goodgovernance principles institutedto alleviate corruption and themismanagement of entrustedresponsibilities?If Alan Parker (handpickedby the Prime Minister) cannotconduct his office with integrityhe should resign or be suspendedimmediately. Is Parker so weakthat he cannot administer his jobprofile independent of externalinfluences? If PERCA cannot holdPonia to accountability they tooshould be given red cards.If Bishop is prepared to allowPonia to carry on undisciplined,he should be removed frombeing the Minister of MarineResources. How on earth wasPonia selected to continue as theThe talented Ben Ponia too clever for his own good?secretary of Marine Resourcesafter he demonstrated anunprecedented refusal to complywith the checks and balances ofGovernment?Unconfirmed word is underadvice from Crown Law, Poniasubmitted information to PERCA.What it was is also guarded, inthe mean time Board members ofCIP Government.While there are plenty ofwhispers and murmuringscoming out of the MMR no oneyet has the courage to go on therecord and break the culture ofsecrecy. A fear of losing theirjobs and self preservation is thecurrent priority.A similar situation existed inCabinet should relieve Bishop of MMRand pass it onto someone who has noperceived conflicts of interestsor a close attachment to anyChinese fishing operators.PERCA have changed and may bethe Ponia revolt has convenientlyfallen through the cracks. Thewhole process has a clumsyFawlty Towers feel about it.Where has the system brokendown and why has this beenallowed to happen? Confidencein the institutions that exist tomonitor good governance haseroded adding to the list ofmisadventures condoned by theCustoms in the early nineties andit wasn’t till the Minister at thetime Vaine Tairea planted a mole(Rena Jonassen) in the Ministrythat the culture of corruptiondiscovered was so wide spreadthroughout the businesscommunity, the report whichrecommended criminal chargeswas buried within Cabinet and aclean out of Customs and processchanges were exercised underthe 1996 transition reform.A copy of the report wasleaked to the media for twentyfour hours but the full extent ofits contents never got reporteddue to legal reactions.The conduct of the MMR hasn’tgone unnoticed and its annoyancehas influential Democratic Partymembers should they becomegovernment, committed toconducting a no stone leftunturned full inquiry with severepenalties for those who havesustained any corrupt activities ofMMR through their silence.The idea that because MMR isdoing so well at bringing in newrevenue for Government throughfishing licences, senior staffshould be rewarded and givena salary review is motivationfor staff to back Ponia’s code ofsilence and secrecy.Some observers admit theirfrustration Ponia appears to bea protected species but they areconfident it’s only a matter oftime before someone in MMRhas a moral resurrection andblows the whistle on what isconcealed in the bowels of theMinistry.If the CIP Governmentis serious about restoringcredibility and rebuilding theintegrity of the CIP brand thatwill enhance an extension totheir one term occupancy at TeAtukura then Cabinet shouldrelieve Bishop of MMR and passit onto someone who has noperceived conflicts of interestsor a close attachment to anyChinese fishing operators.On reflection the late RobertWigmore once held bothAgriculture and MMR portfoliosand was competent in hisoversight of both. Maybe newMinister Kiriau Turepu could begiven the MMR along with theexpected Ministry of Agriculture.If former fisheries expert JulianDashwood could be persuadedto join team Turepu, the publicwill regain confidence in the CIPGovernment.Turepu and the no nonsenseDashwood could oversee anew Fisheries Advisory Boardto ensure the Ministry hasanti corruption and integritymeasures integrated into itsoperations. - By George Pitt

Cook islands HeraldNEWSVACANCYA Financial Specialist is required to assist the Ministry of InternalAffairs (MINTAFF) with financial management of the AsianDevelopment Bank - Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction Project(ADB-JFPR).Qualifications and requirements:• The financial specialist requires a sound background infinancial and auditing skills;• A degree in accounting and financial management isrequired;• Experience in the preparation of financial accountswithin a Government context and working knowledgeof the Cook Islands Government Financial Policies andProcedures Manual;• Strong working knowledge of financial softwareprograms such as MYOB including the ability to transferdata from Excel into a MYOB program and adapt toother financial systems, such as Solomon software, ifrequired;• Experience in the auditing processes and proceduresrequired by the Cook Islands Audit Office;• The ability to translate skills and knowledge on financialmanagement techniques into a training packageappropriate for NGOs;• Facilitation skills to deliver training to local (Rarotonga)and 4 Outer Island NGOs;Daily contract rates apply. This position will require up to 135days over a 12 month period. Closing date to apply for theposition is the 28th July 2013.For a copy of the Terms of Reference and for any furtherenquires contact:Best ever Android AppsooVoo Video CallsStable and reliable video chat apps for Android aren'teasy to come by, but ooVoo is terrific. The Androidvideo chat app supports group video, voice calls, andinstant messaging—across iOS, OSX, Android, andWindows! Not only do you get solid Android videocalling, but you can praccally video chat with anyone.SkypeIt's hard to beat a free, extensive communicaonsnetwork. Skype uses your phone's front- and rearfacingcameras to place free video and voice calls over3G or Wi-Fi. I don't think Skype is "the best"communicaon app for Android, but it's one of thosetools that I will connue to use because other peopleuse it, too, and so it's oen the quickest way to get intouch with certain people. Myspace, Skype, Facebook,Jabber, imo, VKontakte, and Hyves.WhatsApp MessengerSend unlimited text, photo, audio messages to anyonein the world, as long as both of you are connected tothe Internet. Its UI may not be as slick as KakaoTalk,but it's hugely popular and mul-plaorm (talks toyour iOS and BlackBerry friends).Debbie AveADB-JFPR National Project ManagerMinistry Internal Affairs,PO Box 98 Tupapa, RarotongaCook IslandsPhone: (682) 25837Mobile: (682) 55838Email: debbieave-jfpr@intaff.gov.ckMain Road, AvaruaSupplierSELL-OUTSale!Ex-Lease HP D530 EVO SFF DesktopIntel Pentium 4 2.8GHz, 40GB HHD,1GB RAM, CD ROM, On-board Intel865G Graphics, Sound, LAN, 6 x USB,19” LCD Screen, Keyboard & Mouse,Windows XP ProfessionalNormally $499$299PoliceCooksCornerCITCSt JosephMoss RoadBowlingClubCITVVakatini RoadEvil EmpireAll prices are Inclusive of V.A.T. Price valid 01/07/2013 - 31/07/2012 E.O.E.

Cook islands Herald24 July 2013NEWS15PAVEMENT ART COMPETITIONTE MAEVA NUI CELEBRATIONS 2013Who: Open to those schools who entered the competition by 19July 2013When: Thursday 25th July 2013Where: Lagoon boardwalk opposite FoodlandTime: 9am-11am Theme: Taku Peu Maori Ka Ora(My Maori Culture Will Live)As a lead up to Te Maeva Nui celebrations we are running afree to participate pavement art competition for the schools ofRarotonga on the lagoon side of the CBD in Avarua on the TeMaire Nui Road. Teams of school pupils will be given a sponsor’slogo to copy onto the pavement in coloured chalk on the dayof the competition. The best logo will win a prize and therewill be consolation prizes and sponsor give-aways for thoseparticipating. In the event of rain, we will transfer to the BCIStadium Grandstand.As an added safety feature on the day, we have asked thePolice to safety cone off the lane nearest the lagoon side whilstwe run the competition.Schools participating: Rutaki Primary SchoolArorangi Primary School, Nikao’ Maori School, Avatea PrimarySchool,Nukutere College, Takitumu School,Titikaveka CollegeFor further information please contact Te Tuhi KellyTrade and Marketing ManagerBusiness Trade & Investment Board Email: tetuhi.kelly@btib.gov.ck Ph: 24-296Cook Islands Ministry of Cultural DevelopmentProudly PresentsTE MAEVA NUI 201348th Constitution celebration29th July - 5th August 2013P: (+682) 24296 E: info@btib.gov.ckWeb: www.btib.gov.ckCook Islands Tourism CorporationP: (+682) 29435 E: headoffice@cookislands.gov.ckWeb: www.cookislands.travelMONDAY 29TH JULY10:00am Float ParadeDowntown Avarua (Free)12:00pm TMN Official Opening(Panama to Avarua Harbour)TUESDAY 30TH JULYFree DayWEDNESDAY 31ST JULY9am-2pm Cook Islands Trade DayNational Auditorium7:00pm Cultural Dance PerformancesNational AuditoriumTHURSDAY 1ST AUGUST9am-2pm Cook Islands Trade DayNational AuditoriumTHURSDAY 1ST AUGUST7:00pm Cultural Dance PerformancesNational AuditoriumFRIDAY 2ND AUGUST9am-2pm Cook Islands Trade DayNational Auditorium7:00pm Cultural Dance PerformancesNational AuditoriumSATURDAY 3RD AUGUST6am-2pm Punanga Nui Market DayPunanga Nui MarketSUNDAY 4TH AUGUST –CONSTITUTION AND NATIONAL DAY10am Normal Church ServicesMONDAY 5TH AUGUST10am CONSTITUTION DAY CEREMONYNational Auditorium Free12.00pm AWARDS & CLOSING CEREMONYNational Auditorium FreeTICKETSCultural Dance Performance$10, $15, $25Available From:Public Shelter Opposite the Police Station,Downtown ,Avarua– 9am to 3pm.Cook Islands National Library,MoCD complex – 9 to 3pm.Cook Islands National Auditoriumat the door 1 hour before the events.

Cook islands Herald 24 July 201316NEWSChoose a Career in Marine?At this time in your young life, you have so many decisions to make and it can be scary thinkingabout joining the work force and whether you will get the job that you want. Now is the timewhile you are at school to know which subjects to take to achieve your dream job.To start your career in the Marine Industry, the minimum requirements are passes in:NCEA Level 2 English / Maths / Science or a science related subject.In order to protect endangered species, we need to educate people.If you would like to be in a work placement during school holidays to experience what we are all about, please feel free tocontact our Office:Contact Person: Rebekah DanielTelephone No. 28721Email: r.daniel@mmr.gov.ck

Cook islands HeraldNEWS`EPETOMA MᾹORI : “Nōku rai tōku Purotu”24 July 2013I te Paraparau rā 18 o Tiurai, kua rave`ia te tu`anga openga o te `Epetoma Māori naroto i te ta`u-umu a te au `āpi`i i te māmaiāta pōpongi. Kua `akano`o katoa `ia tēia rā e rāmākete no te `oko`oko atu i tā rātou au apinga i akate`ate`amamao mai i roto i tā rātou au`āpi`i `ē pērā katoa i tā rātou kai i ta`u.I tērā rā katoa kua rave `ia na mua te tārērē`anga `īmene `akatangi (Stringband) tei `akanoo`iaki runga rāi i te tāpura o te `epetoma. Kua `īmene mai te au `āpi`i i tēta`i `īmene-tāmataora `ēoti ko tā rātou `imene `atu. Mataora tikāi tā rātou `akano`ono`o i tā rātou au `īmene `ē te`īmene`anga katoa.I muri ake i teia, kua rave `ia te `oko`oko`anga i vao i te `Are Karioi Nui `ē i reira kua `okiatu te kātoatoa ki roto no te `ōronga`angā rē. Ko te au turuturu (sponsors) no te tārērē-kōreroko te BCI – Mataiti 9, Teaching & Learning – M.10, Westpack – M11, ANZ – M 12, InRemembrance of Colin Munokoa – M13.Tārērē Kōrero `ōronga`anga-rē: M9 – 1-Tereora, 2-Nukuroa, 3-Papaaroa, M10 - 1-Mauke, 2- Nukuroa, 3- Tereora, M11 – 1-Mauke, 2-Nukuroa, 3-Tereora, M12 – 1-Mangaia,2-Araura, 3-Tereora, M13 – 1-Araura. 2-Tereora.Stringband: 1- Mauke, 2- Tereora, 3- Araura,`Apaipai Rongo `Enua: (turuturu`ia `e Ck Is Printing) 1-Mitiaro, 2-Mauke, 3-TereoraKua akaoti`ia te `Epetoma Māori na roto i te ve`eve`e-aro`a mei ko mai `iā SonnyWilliam te Tēkereterē o te Tauranga Vānanga i te ui`anga ē “Noku rai tōku purotu....?”Kua pa`u mai tō Mangaia, “...no roto mai i te ko`ina o te rā”, tō Papa`āroa, “...no roto mai i tepapa-roa o te Atua”, tō Tereora, “no roto mai i te one-kura”, tō Mauke, “no roto mai i tenivaniva o te rā”, tō Nukuroa, “no roto mai i te verovero o te rā”, `ē tō Araura, “no roto mai ite kutikuti o te rangi”. Kua `akakite katoa a Sonny William, “Me mate tēta`i Reo (o tēta`i `ititangata)ka ngaro pouroa tōna kite, mārama `ē te pakari”Te `o`ora mai nei a Ina Herman, ē te irinaki nei `aia e kua rauka i te kātoatoa i te `iki`iki mai,kimikimi i tētai au mārama, kite no te `ākono`anga, `ē kia riro tā te pā-`enua i te`akamāro`iro`i `iā tātou i tō tātou Reo. Nōku rāi tōku Purotu ...!!Au tūtū na Rutera Taripo1 7

Cook islands HeraldNEWSRIKI: Tēta`i au TūtūRA O TE UI ARIKI: Tēta`i au Tūtū24 July 2013na Rutera Taripo18na Rutera Taripoaire 5 Tei Tiurai rave`ia 13, ki i te te Varaire Vaka o 5 Takitumu Tiurai 13, ki ki runga te Vaka i te o paepae Takitumu ō Pa ki ma runga i te paepae ō Pa mangi`ia Kainuku i Avana o – Ngāti i te Tikitiki-Enua-i-Autapu-Nui, Tangi`ia i Avana – i te Tikitiki-Enua-i-Autapu-Nui, Avana Nui.Avana Nui.WantedA unique Cook Islands logo for theCook Islands Marine ParkHere’s your chance to design a unique logo forour Cook Islands Marine Park. The competitionis open to everyone resident in the Cook Islands and to allCook Islanders living elsewhere.Time is tight! Entries need to be received by5pm Friday 16th August.The winning logo will be used extensively on products,printed material, clothing, media releases, websites, prettymuch everything associated with the Cook Islands MarinePark. So, the design needs to be easily applied to fabric,paper, and on-line. Apart from that requirement, your“Cook Islands Marine Park ocean canvas” is wide open!The designer of the winning logowill receive NZ$500.Entries, in a high resolution format and containing adescriptor, need to include a contact name, address andphone number and can be hand delivered, emailed, orposted (or 2 of the 3) to:Communications Coordinator, Cook Islands Marine Park,PO Box 649, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands; TIS Office(half way between Tamarind House and the Fishing Club);email Jaewynn@wovencommunications.com; any queriesto Jaewynn McKay on phone 21 144; cell 55 486;or to the above email address.

Cook islands HeraldCHOOKSTunaChow mein?FAT CATSNumber2, wants the Golden Brand Tuna tohave a Cook Islands Flavour!24 July 2013COCONUT ROUNDTABLERumourhas it, Government wants ourChina produced Golden Brand Tunato have a distinct Cook IslandsFlavour!Corned BeefFlavour?21KentuckyFried Tuna!MozzieHeard the story of the burglarygone wrong? An under paid foreignworker supporting his income bymoonlighting breaks into a house onlyto stumble upon the very high profileman of the house on the bed totallynaked with another totally nakedwoman also well known who wasn’tthe naked man’s wife. The surprisedoccupant demands the intruder leaveor he’ll call the police to which theintruder replies if that’s so he’ll telleveryone what he has seen thenquickly leaves. The naked man can’ttell one foreign worker from anotherbecause they all seem to look thesame. The intruder can’t keep a secretand tells all his work mates the nextday much to the annoyance of oneworker who is closely related to theabsent wife of the naked man.Chooks, which agency of the Statehas had five of its staff pack theirbags and leave? Here’s a clue, chooks,Name begins with an “A” and endswith a “T.”One of Tom Tom’s first officialduties as QR, will be to decide whatpresent to send to Kensington Palacefor the new Prince! One suggestion isthat it be a set of re-usable nappiesfeaturing designs by TAV. This wouldguarantee an explosion in sales ofre-usable, designer nappies which canonly benefit the environment!Amid all the hoohah oversustainable fishing and TIS voicing theMarine Park’s concerns, has anyoneasked, where Marine Park founderKevin Iro is while all this banter isgoing on? Remember Kev? He’s theone in the promos strolling along thewhite sandy beach with PM Puna!Local BCI on Mitiaro was beenbroken into last week by 2 youths,apparently New Zealand born CookIslanders sent there to live. On a smallisland in the middle of nowhere, howdid these two think they were goingto get away with it? Rarotonga Policeflew to Mitiaro to find out more.Our PM has a new name, no not“Luke Skywalker” from Star Warsbut “Henry Skycrosser.” Skycrosserbecause after visiting New Caledonia,Henry was due to visit the Solomons.Instead of treading water in NewCaledonia then flying from there tothe Solomons, Henry flew all the wayback to Kiwiland to get on board aKiwiland airforce plane with JontyKey, fly over to Fiji then all the wayback west to the Solomons! Talkabout crossing the sky!Who was the brain whocontemplated getting a couple ofelephants to stop over on their way toKiwiland? Why didn’t the Minister forAgriculture put his hoof down and killthe idea? Was any thought given tothe mountain of dung both elephantswould exude over three months? Justimagine two giant beasts, chased by1,000 dogs, stampeding down mainstreetwrecking CITC, the PoliceStation, Foodland, Jet Save, Vonnias,the Cathedral, the Opposition Officethen the Market, before leaping offAvatiu wharf and swimming home!Tom Tom will soon be appointed QRelect but his shoulder will not be tappeduntil the Kiwi Land GG-Governor Generalarrives in September to make Tom Tom’sappointment fully legit in the eyes of Queenand country! In the interim, it is expectedthe CJ-Chief Justice Tom Tom Western willfill the bill. At least one Ambassador hasnow had to reschedule his trip to theCooks to present his credentials!Will the Puk Puks get a new generatorfor their sports stadium come hurricaneshelter, that runs on coconut oil or will itrequire diesel? After a hurricane a lot ofcoconuts hit the ground and could be usedfor making bio-fuel to run the generator!Go green Pukapuka!Whisper chooks is that Mangaia willbecome a quarantine station for elephantsdestined for overseas zoos. A special UNWildlife Committee has selected Mangaiaas its new harbour is ideal for elephantsto swim ashore and trot up the ramp.Elephants may also assist in hauling pinetrees when foresters begin logging!Cook IslandsHERALDCITV BuildingMoss RoadParekura, RarotongaPO Box 126 RarotongaTel: (682) 29 460Fax: (682) 21 907E mail: bestread@ciherald.co.ckwww.ciherald.co.ckEditor: Charles L. PittFeature writer: Maria TannerTe Reo Maori: Rutera TaripoColumnist: Norma NgatamarikiGraphic Artist: Nga GlassieAdvertising: Charlie RaniAccounts/Deliveries:Te Riu Woonton

Cook islands HeraldCLASSIFIEDSTENDERS24 July 2013PUBLIC NOTICE22FOR:REQUEST FOR PROPOSALTAU FUEL FACILITY UPGRADE PROJECTTe Aponga Uira (TAU) is inviting suitably qualified companiesor joint venture companies to submit a bid to complete supply,refurbish, and construct its Fuel facility Upgrade project atAvatiu Valley Power Station, on Rarotonga.To initiate progress towards the completion of this assignment,TAU has developed a Request for Proposals Documents andTerms of Reference (TOR) for the associated tasks and nowinvites interested companies to submit their proposal for thisassignment.There will be a project briefing at TAU conference room,Tutakimoa Admin office, at 10am, 22 July 2013. Companieswishing to tender are asked to attend. Tender Documents canbe requested and or uplifted from the following contact details:TAU Project ManagerTe Aponga Uira, Rarotonga, Cook IslandsFax: (682) 21-944Tel: (682) 20-054 Extn 835Email: alex.napa@electricity.co.ckThe proposed timeframes for the bidding process are:Deadline for submission of questions:12 noon Mon 29th July 2013Deadline for submission of Proposals:12 noon Fri 2nd Aug 2013Notification to preferred Contractor:From the week 5th Aug 2013Contract and budget negotiations:From the week 5th Aug 2013VACANCYCROWN LAW OFFICE COOK ISLANDSCOMMERCIAL/CIVIL LAWYERThe Crown Law Office, Rarotonga is seeking to employ a CrownCounsel with 3-6 years PQE in Commercial/Civil Law.The work is varied, across a diverse range of issues includinggeneral contact/commercial insurance and employment.You must have the ability to negotiate and draft commercialcontract and advise on a broad range of legal issues ofcommercial/civil significance.This is an opportunity to provide legal support to Governmentthat is complex and challenging with lenty of potential throughstrengthening internal and external relationships.Expressions of interest together with a full CV are to beprovided by Friday 9 August 2013 to Dorothy Ivaiti, Crown LawOffice in an envelope marked “Counsel Vacancy”, P O Box 494,Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands or by email to dorothy.ivaiti@cookislands.gov.ckPUBLIC NOTICEBREAST SCREENING PROGRAMThe Ministry of Health in Association with Cook Islands BreastCancer Foundation would like to advise the next MammographyScreening Program will be held from Monday 29th July toFriday 9th of August 2013 at Rarotonga Hospital.Criteria:1. If you are 40 yrs and over and have not had a BreastScreen before, please contact Hospital Receptionist foran appointment Ph: 226642. If you are under 40 yrs and experiencing breast painand complications, please contact Dr May for anappointment. Ph: 22664 ext 8133. If you were seen in 2011 and advised for a 2 yearlyscreening and had not been contacted by anyRarotonga Hospital staff, please contact HospitalReceptionist for an appointment. Ph: 22 664Meitaki maataTUATUA AKAKITE.POROKARAMU NOTE IO ATU ITE U OTE VAINEKa rave te Marae Ora ete Putuputuanga Breast Canceri tetai porokaramu note akara anga I te u o te au mama, ateia epetoma ki mua, akamata ite Monite ra 29 o Tiurai, e taeuatu kite Varaire ra 9 o Aukute mataiti 2013 kite Aremaki,Rarotonga.Akanooanga:1. Me kua tae toou mataiti kite a ngauru tere atu (40years plus) ta niuniu atu i te are maki numero 22664 notetai taime (appointment) noou.2. Kotou i raro ake I te a ngauru mataiti me te kite neikoe I te tukeke I toou u mama, e ta niuniu atu ia Dr May22664 ext 813 no tetai au akamarama anga3. Ka anoano ia kotou tei akara ia ite mataiti 2011 kiaakara ia akaou i teia mataiti nei, no reira me kare ekoe i ta niuniu iake e te are maki patianga kia ta niuniumai koe no tetai taime (appointment) noou.Meitaki MaataVACANCYBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICERThe Business Trade Investment Board (BTIB) has a senior positionopen for a Business Development Officer. The ideal applicantmust be hard working with a tertiary qualification in a relevantfield, outstanding communication skills ideal for teaching andtraining with an ability to network with a broad cross section ofpeople is. A background/experience in business appraisal andlending is a must. Job descriptions are available from the BTIBoffice. Written applications with a current CV may be sent inconfidence to:Finance and Administration Manager, BTIB private Bag,Rarotonga or email sarah.samuel@btib.gov.ckApplications close 4.00pm Friday 2nd August 2013

Cook islands HeraldCLASSIFIEDSVACANCY24 July 201323MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNINGWATER, WASTE & SANITATION UNITThe Government of the Cook Islands (CI Gov) is embarking ona multimillion dollar upgrade of the water supply system onRarotonga, with the goal of “delivering potable water, reliably,to the boundaries of properties connected to the existing watersupply network, by 2015”.In order to achieve its target, the CI Gov has formed ‘TeMato Vai’ – the Cook Islands Water Partnership – with thegovernments of the People’s Republic of China and NewZealand.Funding for the water supply upgrade will be provided througha combination of Cook Islands budget funding, a Chinesegovernment loan and grant assistance from NewZealand.The upgrade to be carried out on Rarotonga, will involverehabilitation of 12 water intakes, creation of additional storagecapacity, construction of treatment plants and replacement of alltrunk mains, ring mains and local distribution to the boundariesof all properties served by the current network.The Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning (MOIP) in partnershipwith the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management(MFEM) invites applications for the posts of ‘Te MatoVai’ Communications Team Leader in its Water, Waste andSanitation (WATSAN) Unit.WATSAN seeks applications from appropriately qualifiedand experienced individuals or firms, to provide leadershipof the Communications Work stream for ‘Te Mato Vai’. TheCommunications Team Leader will be appointed on acontract basis, for an initial period of one year, with thepossibility of extension to the full duration of ‘Te Mato Vai’.This is an exciting opportunity to work with anew team, tasked with making improvements in waterinfrastructure, policy and practice that will contribute to thesupply of reliable potable water to the boundaries of allproperties on Rarotonga.Te Mato Vai Communications Team LeaderCommunication with our stakeholders is a critical component inthe successful delivery of the Te Mato Vai project. This includesworking with schools awareness programmes; writing pressreleases and news columns; managing social media; workingwith event’s organisers; overseeing the design and productionof collateral; co ordinating community information events andpreparing briefing documents for senior politicians.To lead these activities, we are seeking an experiencedCommunications Team Leader who has the energy, expertiseand skills to implement a comprehensive communicationsstrategy across a wide ranging programme of work, throughoutRarotonga.The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate atrack record of successful delivery of communications in multifaceted programmes of work.For this position an interest in or understanding of thewater sector and environmentwould be a distinct advantage. Above all, the successfulcandidate must be passionateabout making a difference to the long term well being of theCook Islands.If you would like to apply for this position, please submit aletter of application with a current CV to:Tekao HerrmannActing WATSAN ManagerMinistry of Infrastructure and Planning PO Box 102, RarotongaA copy of the TOR can be emailed to you upon request.The ‘Te Mato Vai’ Communications Strategy to be implementedby the Communications Team Leader is in place, and availablefor interested applicants.The closing date for applications is Friday, 2 August 2013.For more information please contact Tangi Taoro by phoneon 20 321 or by email att.taoro@moip.gov.ckSENIOR INSPECTOR – EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSLABOUR/ WORKERS COMPENSATION/EMPLOYERS LIABILITYThe Ministry of Internal Affairs has a vacancy for the positionof Senior Inspector – Employment Relations within the Labour &Employment Relations Office.If you are interested in the position, a full job description andinformation pack is available upon request. Please contact EvaMapu, phone 29370 or email admin@intaff.gov.ckApplications must be addressed to the Secretary of the Ministry.Applications close 1 August 2013 at 4pm.OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTERPA ENUA GOVERNANCE UNITExecutive OfficerPUKAPUKA ISLAND GOVERNMENTThe Pa Enua Governance Unit of the Office of the Prime Ministerinvites applications for the position of Executive Officer for theIsland of Pukapuka. The Executive Officer is the AdministrativeHead of the Island Government on the island.An electronic copy of the Job Description and ApplicationForm can be emailed to you upon request to jtangi@oyster.net.ck or to otheniel@pmoffice.gov.ck. Otherwise, you candownload the Job Description and Application Form fromwww.pmoffice.gov.ck.Those interested, please apply in writing by 1pm 31 July 2013to; The Chief of StaffOffice of the Prime Minister, Private Mail BagAvarua, COOK ISLANDS