Wednesday 5 February by Cook Islands News

Te reo o te KUKI AIRANI

$2 Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Bishop home searched by police The home of Cabinet minister and Aitutaki member of Parliament Teina Bishop was searched by local and New Zealand-based law enforcement officials on monday. At roughly 9.30am, Bishop said he was at an Aitutaki island council meeting when his home was searched by two local police oficers and two NZ -based oficers, who had presented a search warrant. Items from his home were confiscated, said Bishop, who has been under investigation by

law enforcement officials looking into allegations of corruption and bribery against him. Bishop’s lawyer Tony manarangi also conirmed yesterday he was visited by local police investigators. “We’re still reviewing the information they want,” he said. “This is just part of their investigation into the allegations against the minister.” “everyone is co-operating with this investigation, nobody is stonewalling it.” When requested by CI News

Widest debate on tourism in 20 years A mAJoR forum designed to

spark fresh debate about the growth of tourism in the Cook Islands is kicking off today. Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CITC) is running a Tourism Stakeholders Forum at the Assembly of God Church in Takuvaine, from 8.30am to 1pm today and tomorrow. “This will be an opportunity to talk about what people want for the industry and what issues are affecting it,” said metua Vaiimene, CITC’s director of destination development. The results of an international visitors’ survey will be presented this morning, revealing the least and most appealing features of the Cook Islands for tourists. Issues like stray dogs and poor customer service will no

doubt be hot topics of debate. Those attending the forum will later split into working groups to come up with strategies for tackling each issue. Tomorrow’s agenda involves discussions about growing tourism in the outer islands and what progress is being made around tourism education and training. Working groups will look at how to place students in industry workplaces, the top ive training needs for the industry and events in the sister islands. This forum is the irst time in 20 years that wider stakeholders – government, the community, and the business sector – have come together to address issues affecting the industry, Vaiimene said last week. - Ben Chapman-Smith

Cook islands Tourism Corporation chief executive halatoa Fua (left) and director of destination development Metua Vaiimene.

yesterday, Cook Islands Police did not provide any information on the searches. An oficial with New Zealand’s Serious Fraud Ofice previously said they were “unable to conirm, nor deny, any involvement” in the matter when contacted by CI News, saying “the more appropriate place” to direct questions was the ofice of Commissioner maara Tetava. Last July, Tetava conirmed a government oficial was the subject of a police investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption, later confirmed as Bishop – at the time the former minister of marine Resources. Tetava said central to the investigation was section 113 of the 1969 Crimes Act, relating to “corruption and bribery of minister of the Crown”. “every minister of the Crown or member of the executive Council is liable to imprison-

ment for a term not exceeding 14 years who corruptly accepts or obtains, or agrees or offers to accept or attempts to obtain, any bribe for himself or any other person in respect of any act done or omitted, or to be done or omitted, by him in his capacity as a minister or member of the executive Council,” reads Section 113. Before the commissioner’s July announcement, Bishop was facing public allegations of corruption in relation to the purchase, sale, and trading of two fishing boats - the orongo and the Bounty. Bishop confirmed the dealings had involved foreign ishing company huanan Fishery (Cook Islands) Company - a subsidiary of Luen Thai Fishing Venture –which was eventually issued a foreign fishing license by the government after being engaged by the former marine Resources minister.

Minister of education and Tourism Teina Bishop. 14020440 Yesterday’s investigation occurred near the six-month anniversary since the announcement of the investigation by police, said Bishop.

“I’m pleased that it’s finally happening,” he said. “The way they did it, it was professional. “meanwhile, life goes on.” - Emmanuel Samoglou

Sharing the love

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Cupid shot his arrow and shared out roses and chocolates to remind the community of the upcoming day of love or Valentine’s Day on February 14. The pair of cupids, dressed in pareu and angel wings loated through the CI News oice yesterday handing out chocolate kisses and delighting the front oice staf of Apii Tua, Kura Tauira and Tangi Tauira. The duo also handed out coupons for discounts on lingerie at the Knickers in a Twist store in Tupapa who sent the cupids out to share the love.

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

worldNeWS nuti no TeIA NeI Ao 70 bags of heroin found New York City police have found nearly 70 bags of suspected heroin inside actor Philip Seymour Hoffman’s home a day after his death. The Oscar-winning star, 46, was found dead at his Greenwich Village home on Sunday with a syringe in his arm. Among the drugs found in Hoffman’s apartment were several packets stamped with the ace of hearts, as well as the ace of spades, authorities say. Both are said to be brand names for heroin which street dealers employ.

Food crisis desperate

2.5 million people in Sahel Belt need urgent aid just to survive GeNeVA – The UN has appealed for more than US$2 billion to care for 20 million “food insecure” people across Africa’s Sahel Belt, an impoverished area that includes Sudan and Central African Republic. The Ofice for the Coordination of humanitarian Affairs says conlicts in these countries and elsewhere meant the situation for many was still desperate. The belt is a semi-arid area

world BRIeFS Thai proTeSTerS To Keep Up preSSUre THAILAND – Anti-government protesters plan to forge ahead with eforts to topple Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, a day after a disrupted election in Thailand. The demonstrators blocked balloting in a ifth of the country’s constituencies and say Yingluck must resign and make way for an appointed “people’s council” to overhaul the political system. Sunday’s election, which the main opposition party boycotted, is almost certain to return the prime minister to power. However, the vote is unlikely to change the dysfunctional status quo in a country blighted by eight years of polarisation and turmoil, Reuters reports. Thaugsuban, have rallied in Bangkok since November to try to oust Yingluck. They want electoral rules rewritten before any election and have vowed to keep up the protests.

BaShiNG oF BoBBY CaLF CaUSeS SCaNDaL CHILE – One of New Zealand’s largest dairy companies has come under ire with the release of a video showing a farmer bashing a bobby calf to death with mallet. The video shows the New Zealand farmer hitting the calf repeatedly in the head on a property in Chile owned by the industrial dairy company Manuka. In the shocking video a man – who Manuka claims is no longer with the company – is seen beating the calf on the head as it cries out from the pain. Speaking to NZ’s One News, Manuka director Mark Townshend said the act was “horrendous” and apologised, announcing an inquiry into the incident had been launched. The company has been accused of slaughtering 6000 bobby calves in Chile where it owns and operates several properties not suitable for either milk production or beef.

MUrDerS DoWN DUe To CoLD WeaTher USa – The Polar Vortex in the USa may have caused a lot of headaches for residents over the past month but it has proven beneicial for one thing – driving the murder rate down. Oicial igures show that Chicago recorded 20 homicides in January 2014, just half the number of murders compared to the same month in 2013. Chicago Police spokesman adam Collins said the cold weather may be behind the igures. There were 11 days of sub zero temperatures in January, making it one of the coldest months in recent history, and testing the theory that even murderers don’t like to work in freezing weather.

SCaMMer arreSTeD oVer WoMaN’S DeaTh NIGERIa – Nigerian police have arrested a man over the death of an elderly australian woman and for defrauding her of $90,000 in an online dating scam. Orowo Jesse Omokoh, 28, a University of Ibadan graduate will appear before a court for extradition proceedings in connection with the death of West australian grandmother Jette Jacobs in Johannesburg, South africa. Jacobs’ death was deemed suspicious by police, who suspected Omokoh may have been involved. Omokoh is alleged to have struck up a false relationship with the 68-year-old online and swindled her of $90,000 in savings over four years. Jacobs was found dead in February 2013, just ive days after her love interest moved to the city to meet her.

stretching from the Atlantic east to the Red Sea. Donors gave just over 60 per cent of the $1.7 billion the UN appealed for Sahel in 2013. Countries in the Sahel region – south of the Sahara desert – facing food crises include mauritania, The Gambia, mali, Niger, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal and Cameroon, the UN said. “The situation for countless communities across the region is still desperate,” the oChA fact sheet says. It outlines five key points about “one of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable regions”. The number of people who do not know where their next meal will come from has almost doubled in the past year. Food and nutrition are at the heart of the crisis, but there are many other factors at play. A new approach is needed to break this cycle of hunger and vulnerability. humanitarian groups are collaborating with governments and development agencies. Aid groups are conident they can make a huge difference. UN Regional humanitarian co-ordinator for the Sahel Robert Piper told the Reuters news agency that the region now faces “make or break time”. “It’s the year we see if we can translate theory into practice and start bringing aid workers together to work with national governments and reverse these trends that have been deteriorating year after year,” he said. Food insecurity has been made worse by conflict in the region, oChA says. however Piper warned that funding may fall short because of a slow global economic recovery and the UN’s $6.5billion appeal for Syria, the largest humanitarian campaign in its history. - BBC

displaced women and children in south sudan. The un has appealed for us$20 billion to feed 20 million people facing starvation across africa’s sahel Belt. AFP

75 dead in Muslim attack BoDA – Sectarian ighting in the Central African Republic town of Boda since Tuesday has left at least 75 people dead, a local priest has said. Father Cassien Kamatari said help was needed to stop the violence between muslims and Christians. The majority of those conirmed dead were Christian. Because muslim victims were buried soon after the attacks it was not known how many of them were killed, he said.

There have been widespread reports of revenge attacks since mainly muslim fighters withdrew from the capital Bangui last month. They did so following the resignation of interim president michel Djotodia. Correspondents say that while the security situation in Bangui has improved since the peacekeepers’ arrival, outbreaks of violence continue in the north and west of CAR. “Instead of thinking only

of Bangui, people must also think of what’s happening in the countryside because what we are living through in these communities is horriic,’’ Father Kamatari said. he said that the violence began when heavily-armed muslims erected barricades at the entrance and exit to the town – 100km west of Bangui – and began attacking Christians. he said that his parish was sheltering 1500 people trying to lee the violence. - BBC

Hunt for multiple murderer IoNIA – Authorities in the US state of michigan have launched a manhunt for a convicted multiple murderer who escaped from prison on Sunday. michael David elliot, 40, who was noted missing on monday was sentenced in 1994 to life for four murders. he dug holes under two prison fences to make his escape, police said. elliot was said to be wearing a white kitchen uniform dur-

ing his escape from Ionia Correctional Facility. he allegedly abducted a woman outside the prison who later escaped when the convict stopped for petrol. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s ofice said the woman called authorities from a concealed mobile phone while Elliot illed up the petrol tank. A dispatcher told the woman, who was unharmed, to run into the station toilet, lock the doors

and remain inside until police arrived. Elliot had led by the time oficers arrived. The woman’s red Jeep was later found abandoned. Several law enforcement agencies including the michigan State Police are involved in the search. All other inmates at Ionia prison have been accounted for, michigan corrections department spokesman Russ marlan conirmed. - AP

hippos perform for circus spectacle

‘BarBie’ NeVer MeaNT To Be reaLiSTiC USa – For the irst time ever, the vice president of design at Mattel has spoken out about Barbie’s controversial and unrealistic body proportions. Kimberly Culmone, 43, who has worked with the company since 2007, defended Barbie’s design, citing the reason for her disproportionate measurements as a practical one. “Barbie’s body was never designed to be realistic. She was designed for girls to easily dress and undress.” she said. Ms Culmone admitted that while new Barbie bodies are a “continual evolution” for Mattel, the brand’s 55-year heritage means that the design team has an obligation to consistency as mothers hand Barbie outits down to their daughters.

Today’s Daily Bread Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be illed with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.

Matthew3:1-17 7:21-29 read: read: 1 Corinthians

Text: 7:26 Text:Matthew ephesians 5:18-19

a trio of hippos have been trained to entertain audiences in eastern europe. The three seven-year-old females are top billing at a new show put on by the Belarusian state Circus in Minsk where the government has yet to introduce animal cruelty laws. AFP

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

worldNeWS nuti no TeIA NeI Ao olympic flame ends 65,000 kilometre relay

An Olympic lame torchbearer rides a camel in the Russian Caspian Sea port of Astrakhan. Russian torchbearers started the 65,000 kilometre trans-Russia marathon in October last year in what has become history’s longest Olympic torch relay ahead of Winter Games in sochi which start at the end of this week. AFP

SoChI – The Sochi 2014 olympic torch relay has entered its inal week, with recent highlights including the olympic Flame’s ascent of mt elbrus – the highest point in europe. A special cauldron had been lit at the 5642-metre western peak of elbrus, as part of Sochi 2014’s “special projects”, which have also seen the olympic torch taken to the North Pole, Lake Baikal – the world’s deepest and oldest lake – and even outer space. The main torch relay route, meanwhile, has been continuing its epic 123-day journey across Russia, which will culminate at the opening Ceremony of Sochi 2014 on February 7. During the past week, olympic champions were among the torchbearers as the olympic lame passed through Grozny, magas, makhachkala and Astrakhan. The relay will conclude at the opening ceremony following a record-breaking 65,000km route across Russia, which was designed to ensure that approximately 90 per cent of the country’s population would be within an hour of the relay at some stage, allowing around 130 million residents to participate in the event. - olympic.org

‘Tidal wave’ of cancer on horizon says WHO cancer dominates in large parts of Africa. The human papillomavirus (hPV) is a major cause. It is thought wider use of the hPV and other vaccines could prevent hundreds of thousands of cancers. one of the report’s editors, Dr Bernard Stewart from the University of New South Wales in Australia, said prevention had a “crucial role in combating the tidal wave of cancer which we see coming across the world”. Dr Stewart said human behaviour was behind many cancers such as the sunbathe “until you’re cooked evenly on both sides” approach in his native Australia. he said it was not the role of the International Agency for Research on Cancer to dictate what should be done. But he added: “In relation

to alcohol, for example, we’re all aware of the acute effects, whether it’s car accidents or assaults, but there’s a burden of disease that’s not talked about because it’s simply not recognised, specifically involving cancer. “The extent to which we modify the availability of alcohol, the labelling of alcohol, the promotion of alcohol and the price of alcohol – those things should be on the agenda.” he said there was a similar argument to be had with sugar fuelling obesity, which in turn affected cancer risk. meanwhile, a survey of 2046 people in the UK by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) suggested 49 per cent did not know that diet increases the risk of developing cancer. A third of people said cancer was mainly due to family histo-

ry, but the charity said no more than 10 per cent of cancers were down to inherited genes. Amanda mcLean, general manager for the WCRF, said: “It’s very alarming to see that such a large number of people don’t know that there’s a lot they can do to signiicantly reduce their risk of getting cancer. “In the UK, about a third of the most common cancers could be prevented through being a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and being regularly physically active. “These results show that many people still seem to mistakenly accept their chances of getting cancer as a throw of the dice, but by making lifestyle changes today, we can help prevent cancer tomorrow.” It advises a diet packed with vegetables, fruit, and wholegrains, cutting down on alco-

hol and red meat and junking processed meat completely. Jean King, Cancer Research UK’s director of tobacco control, said: “The most shocking thing about this report’s prediction that 14 million cancer cases a year will rise to 22 million globally in the next 20 years is that up to half of all cases could be prevented. “People can cut their risk of cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices, but it’s important to remember that the government and society are also responsible for creating an environment that supports healthy lifestyles. “It’s clear that if we don’t act now to curb the number of people getting cancer, we will be at the heart of a global crisis in cancer care within the next two decades.” - BBC

A pier is damaged in the port of Lixouri, on the Greek island of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea after a strong 6.1 magnitude earthquake. AFP

KeFALoNIA – A strong earthquake magnitude of 6.1 hit the western Greek island of Kefalonia before dawn monday, sending frightened residents into the streets just over a week after a similar quake damaged hundreds of buildings. Authorities said about 16 people had been slightly hurt, mainly by falling objects, while roads, homes and shops were damaged and some areas suffered power and water supply cuts. Islanders also had to contend with intense bad weather, with strong rain and low temperatures. Kefalonia mayor, Alexandros Parisis, said the port at the island’s second largest town of Lixouri, the closest to the epi-

center, had been damaged. Images from the area showed part of the pier breaking off and boats that had been on land for repair toppling over. earthquakes have been rattling Kefalonia constantly for the past week, after a 5.9 temblor struck the area on January 26, damaging homes and slightly injuring seven people. Schools on the island have been shut for the past week. An eight-member rescue team with a sniffer dog was heading to the island as a precaution. The defence ministry said it was sending two military transport aircraft carrying 30 personnel and three doctors as well as tents and emergency supplies, and a military ship with digging

vehicles, a mobile kitchen and a water tanker. Seismologists said more aftershocks were to be expected on the island. Authorities urged the islanders to remain calm and not approach any damaged buildings. The quake was felt across parts of the western Greek mainland and as far away as the Greek capital, Athens, almost 300 kilometres to the east. The intense seismic activity reawakened memories of the devastating 1953 quakes on Kefalonia and neighbouring Zakinthos, when a 7.2-magnitude temblor struck three days after a 6.4 quake, killing hundreds, injuring thousands and destroying nearly all the buildings on the islands. - CBS News

LoNDoN – The globe is facing

a “tidal wave” of cancer, and restrictions on alcohol and sugar need to be considered, say World health organization scientists. It predicts the number of cancer cases will reach 24 million a year by 2035, but half could be prevented. The Who said there was now a “real need” to focus on cancer prevention by tackling smoking, obesity and drinking. The World Cancer Research Fund said there was an “alarming” level of naivety about diet’s role in cancer. Fourteen million people a year are diagnosed with cancer, but that is predicted to increase to 19 million by 2025, 22 million by 2030 and 24 million by 2035. The developing world will bear the brunt of the extra cases. Dr Chris Wild, the director

of the Who’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, told the BBC: “The global cancer burden is increasing and quite markedly, due predominately to the ageing of the populations and population growth. “If we look at the cost of treatment of cancers, it is spiralling out of control, even for the highincome countries. Prevention is absolutely critical and it’s been somewhat neglected.” The Who’s World Cancer Report 2014 said the major sources of preventable cancer include smoking, infections, alcohol, obesity and inactivity, radiation, both from the sun and medical scans, air pollution and other environmental factors, delayed parenthood, having fewer children and not breastfeeding. For most countries, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. however, cervical

Greek island shaken twice

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

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Survival saga raises eyebrows Story of man who spent 13 months adrift ‘too amazing’, media report mAJURo – Disbelief is starting to be expressed surrounding the story of a man who says he survived more than a year at sea, drifting on a small ishing boat from mexico to the marshall Islands. At first the news was em-

braced by the media as “incredible” but some doubts have been cast on the man’s story. Last week isherman Jose Salvador Albarengo, 37, washed up on a remote atoll in the marshall Islands, looking disoriented and clad only in underpants.

paciic BRIEFS LaND pLaN For iNDiGeNoUS FaMiLieS NORTHERN MaRIaNaS – The Department of Public Lands in the Northern Marianas says its groundbreaking ceremony on Tinian this week is the irst of many which will beneit the indigenous Chamorros population. The planning division director, Patricia Rasa, says 170 families have been given permits to develop the land at West San Jose Village Homestead and from Wednesday will be able to start building their homes on it. Five other village homestead sites are being developed on Tinian. Rasa says it hopes to ind homestead land for all Chamorros people on the island, who have custom land ownership. “We have 515 recipients. Right now, we are only doing 170. as soon as this one is distributed, then we move onto the next phase for 168 and we just keep on going until we’ve satisied all 515 applicants.”

FoUrTh SoLar eNerGY FarM STarTeD TONGA – The Tonga prime minister, Lord Tu’ivakano, has laid the foundation for the country’s fourth solar energy farm. The latest, backed by the Japanese government, is being built at Vaini on the main island, Tongatapu. It will cost an estimated US$10 million and be a similar size to a solar farm built with New Zealand’s help at Maama Mai. Radio Tonga reports the minister of public enterprises, Fe’ao Vakata, says the Vaini farm can help cut costs and reduce reliance on diesel. The Japanese ambassador to Tonga, Kazuchika Hamuro, says Japan wants to help Tonga ensure sustainable energy for all.

WeST papUaN aCTiViST ShoT DeaD WEST PaPUa – a Papuan militiaman has been shot dead in Indonesia’s remote province of West Papua. The Bangkok Post reports the police and military acted on a tip-of and raided a gathering of members of the rebel Free Papua Movement, or OPM, near a beach in the Yapen Waropen district on Saturday. a Papua police spokesman Pudjo Sulistyo, says the two groups became involved in a shoot-out, after the armed militiamen refused to surrender. He says one of the activists was shot dead in the ire ight. Police arrested eleven members and seized weapons, along with the outlawed pro-independence Morning Star lag. Three security oicers were wounded.

ToNGa WaNTS More oN WorK SCheMeS FIJI – The Tonga government is hoping to signiicantly increase the numbers of workers travelling to New Zealand and australia under the temporary seasonal employment schemes. Under the schemes in each country’s horticulture sectors, Tonga has provided nearly 3000 workers in the past year. The chief executive of Tonga’s ministry of internal afairs, Lopeti Senituli, says these workers earned more than US$20 million and remitted about half of that to the country. He says the impact is signiicant and the government wants to send more. Senituli says there are already another 1500 people registered, wanting to go. “There is also pressure or requests from the Ha’apai Islands, which have recently been struck by Tropical Cyclone Ian, for placements for workers from the islands afected.”

FiJi TeaCherS STarT WorK iN VaNUaTU VaNUaTU – Nine retired teachers from Fiji have been briefed by Vanuatu’s minister of education, Bob Loughman, and will begin teaching in the country soon. The Vanuatu Teachers’ Union has criticised the deal, saying it should have been consulted and local teachers should be given jobs irst. One of the teachers from Fiji, Setareki Taraga, who will be teaching agricultural science, says the three females and six male teachers assigned all have more than 20 years of experience. Taraga says they have been asked to help improve the schools’ performance and students’ grades. He says the school curriculums for Vanuatu and Fiji are similar.

GeoTherMaL TeSTiNG a LeNGTh proCeSS aMERICaN SaMOa – american geologists say it could be up to 18 months before they know for sure whether american Samoa has potential for geothermal energy. Two geologists from a California company, Geologica, have spent two weeks in the territory conducting preliminary tests. Principal geologist Joe Ivonetti says they will send soil and gas samples they have collected away for testing and it will be up to six weeks before results are known. “We probably won’t know deinitively till we drill and that drilling is at least a year, a year and a half away. Typically these projects from start to inish are in the order of ive to eight years,” geologist Ivonetti said.

The man, who some media are calling Jose Alvarenga, claimed to have been adrift since December 2012, and said he survived drinking turtle blood and catching ish with his bare hands. As he was helped ashore after officials took him to the marshall Islands capital majuro – where he was greeted by a crowd of over a 1000 locals – he said: “I’m alive – I’m alive and I can’t believe it”. He shufled down the gangplank of a navy patrol rescue boat, smiling and waving as he stepped off. he had a bushy beard, gaunt face and swollen ankles but was able to walk alone and said he was desperately hungry for bread – he said his parents in el Salvador are bakers. “I feel bad,” he said of his physical and mental state while talking to a Spanish interpreter via a faltering radio link over the weekend while still at ebon Atoll and said he was keen to return home. “I am so far away. I don’t know where I am or what happened.” Albarengo was taken to hospital in majuro to be treated for dehydration and joint pain but was otherwise in a stable condition, oficials said. The castaway told US ambassador Thomas Armbruster, who was acting as an interpreter for marshall Islands authorities, that he was originally from el Salvador but had been living in mexico for 15 years before his epic voyage. “he said he is a shrimp and shark isherman,” Armbruster said on monday in majuro minutes after talking to him. “he looked better than one would expect. “It’s hard for me to imagine someone surviving 13 months at sea,” he said. “But it’s also hard to imagine how someone might arrive on ebon out of the blue. Certainly this guy has had an ordeal, and has been at sea for some time.” Armbruster said the soft-spoken man seemed in reasonable health, and, rather than appearing emaciated, he looked puffy in places, including around his ankles. The ambassador said Albarengo complained of pains in his joints and had a limp but was able to walk. The ambassador, who speaks Spanish, said Albarengo had lived in mexico for 15 years and worked as a isherman. “he talked about scooping up little ish that swam alongside the boat and eating them raw. he also said he ate birds, and drank birds’ blood,” he said. Albarengo told media from hospital his first words upon sighting land after 13 months were “oh, God”. “I had just killed a bird to eat and then I saw some trees,” he said. “I got to land and had a mountain of sleep. In the morning I woke up and heard a rooster and saw chickens and saw a small house. I saw two native women screaming and yelling. I didn’t have any clothes – I was only in my underwear and they

Castaway Jose albarengo was welcomed by a local crowd as he arrived in the Marshalls capital Majuro but already some world media are starting to doubt the story of survival that is unfolding. AFP

‘I saw two native women screaming and yelling. I didn’t have any clothes – I was only in my underwear and they were ripped and torn.’ were ripped and torn.” Various details recounted by Albarengo seemed “sketchy”, and “he sometimes appears to contradict his story”, The Telegraph wrote. he said he was off the coast of Mexico on a one-day ishing trip with companion, a 15-year-old named ezekiel, when the motor on their boat stopped working. After a few days near land, they drifted into the Paciic Ocean. ezekiel died four months into the 12,500-kilometre voyage because he couldn’t bring himself to eat raw bird meat, and Albarengo said that was when he contemplated taking his own life. “For four days I wanted to kill myself. But I couldn’t feel the desire – I didn’t want to feel the pain. I couldn’t do it,” he said. Albarengo mustered the courage to survive, armed only with a knife and a covering to protect himself from the sun, he said. “I didn’t know the hour, nor the day, nor the date,” he said. “I

only knew the sun and the nigh. I never saw land. Pure ocean, pure ocean. It was very placid – only two days with big waves.” Asked how he survived, he said he was never bored and rarely scared and constantly prayed to God, though he does not belong to any speciic religious order. “I had my mind on God,” he said. “If I was going to die, I would be with God. So I wasn’t scared. I imagine this is an incredible story for people.” He lived off birds, turtles, ish and small sharks, and would frequently drink his own urine. “When you need to eat, when you need to drink, you keep your mind alive. And you pray. I prayed to God all the time. I prayed to stay alive,” he said. Albarengo is reportedly from el Salvador and officials were working to track down his family members, including his 10-year-old daughter. But with no identification and sketchy details in his story, even some oficials are sceptical of his account. Acting secretary of foreign affairs for the marshall Islands Gee Bing said it was an “incredible” story, but he was not sure he believed it, The Guardian reported. Bing said the man had no identification with him and other details of his story remained sketchy, including the exact location of his departure from mexico. “When we saw him, he was

not really thin compared to other survivors in the past,” Bing said. “I may have some doubts. once we start communicating with where he’s from, we’ll be able to ind out more information.” Jack Niedenthal, a ilm-maker based on majuro said: “he got off the boat with a very bushy beard.” Niedenthal told Reuters after speaking briefly to Albarenga through an interpreter: “he’s having trouble walking, his legs are very skinny. I’m not ready to call this a hoax, I think this guy has done some serious time at sea.” officials hope to clarify the castaway’s situation and organise his repatriation, though it’s unclear exactly where he’ll go. Authorities are still in the process of gathering information about Alvarenga’s family and friends in el Salvador and the United States. Albarengo has said that he has a 10-year-old daughter in el Salvador and that his Salvadorian parents are bakers. Ideally, marshall Island authorities plan to send Alvarenga back to mexico, though details are far from ironed out. According to CBS, the mexican ambassador in the Philippines, Julio Camarena, is involved in deciding Albarengo’s fate, though neither he nor mexican authorities have said much publicly about the situation. - PNC/sources

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

regionalNeWS nuti no Te PA eNUA

Researchers sight ‘extinct’ bird APIA – A bird cousin of the long lost dodo has been found in Samoa a decade after it was feared the species might be extinct. Samoan scientists rediscovered the manumea or toothbilled pigeon by accident last month. “one of the team went outside to hang his wet clothes on the line and heard a noise that attracted his attention,” Samoa Division of environment and Conservation team leader moeumu Uili said. “he looked up to the tree and saw a bird sitting up high on one of the tree branches.” The research, funded by Britain Birdwatch organisation, was trying to establish whether manumea was extinct. The last time the bird was seen was briely in 2006 when researchers saw it in the forest of Salelologa on the island of Savai’i. Uili said when the team member named Fialelei saw the bird, everybody got their binoculars and cameras. “I started taking as many pictures as I could before the bird flew off. A closer look using binoculars and we knew we had found it, the rare manu-

mea. everyone had questioned whether the bird still existed. Now we know it is still alive.” The manumea is endemic to Samoa and is the country’s national bird. It is thought to have declined rapidly over the last 20 years as a result of hunting and habitat loss, with numbers falling from an estimated 4,800 individuals in 1991 to no more than 200 in 2012. According to Conservation Leadership Programme partner Birdlife International, “the lack of recent records suggests that all sub-populations may now be so small that the species may warrant uplisting to Critically endangered in the near future.” “In order to conserve this species it is essential that the biology and ecology of the bird is known, so that informed decisions can be made,” said Uili. “our surveys are gathering critical evidence about the existing population, current distribution, breeding season and food sources. “This information will contribute greatly to effective conservation decision making, long-term species and habitat protection, and successful

‘A closer look using binoculars and we knew we had found it, the rare manumea. everyone had questioned whether the bird still existed. Now we know it is still alive.’ awareness education for the local communities.” The next step for researchers is to survey Samoa’s southern island, Upolu, where some anecdotal reports have been collected. More ieldwork is needed to get the full picture, they say. meanwhile, the ministry is planning a consultation process with villages where this bird has been found, to consider conservation measures for the manumea’s survival. manumea (Didunculus strigirostris) is also known as the “little dodo” but its relationship

to the real dodo (Raphus cucullatus) is considered very distant. The dodo was a lightless bird on Mauritius, irst seen by Eu-

ropeans in 1598 by Dutch sailors. It was quickly wiped out by sailors for food and was last seen in 1662. - Fairfax/PNC

aBOVe: Thought to be on the brink of extinction samoan scientists spotted the manumea bird in a tree where they were camped.

opment budget component equates to poor policy design and the worst diplomacy,” the PIPP spokesperson said. The United States strategic foreign policy “pivot” in Asia parallels increasing aid to the Paciic region, in addition to its Compact of Free Association funding to the FSm, marshall Islands and Palau. motivations of China and Taiwan, both of which have massive resource extraction stakes in countries such as Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to increase aid and concessional loans to the region invite closer scrutiny. With foreign aid amounting to more than 50 per cent of government development budgets in Tonga, marshall Islands, FSm and Solomon Islands, there are potential repercussions for political and economic independence. For PIPP, “Paciic Islands living in debt often dance to the tune of those who provide much needed resources. even when Paciic Islands are out of debt, they remain indebted in principle for the generosity provided to them in the past.”

The PI F-led 2007 Pacific Aid effectiveness Principles and 2009 Cairns Compact on strengthening development co-ordination aim to increase Pacific ownership of regional development, donor and recipient accountability and aid alignment to national priorities. Since 2010 a peer review process among Paciic Island countries is supporting improved governance, public inance and aid management and national planning. But there is still a long way to go before foreign aid is seen as consolidating, rather than impeding, self-determination. PIPP believes better poverty alleviation outcomes and addressing development barriers such as climate change demand less political interference in aid decision-making, while Paciic states need at the same time to boost local economic development through greater regional co-operation. “Foreign aid should be complimentary to locally driven development which is lourishing in the informal, small and medium enterprise sectors,” Duituturaga said. - IPS

Paciic needs help away from aid Long-term dependence on development aid in Paciic nations, many of which have been independent for 30-40 years, continues to cause concern, writes Catherine wilson an independent journalist and writer reporting on development issues in Melanesia and the Paciic for the Inter-Press Service global news agency (IPS). SYDNeY – The World Bank reports that overseas development assistance (oDA) to the region amounts to 469 dollars per capita, compared to 64 dollars in Caribbean small states and 54 dollars in Sub-Saharan Africa. Paciic development experts are calling for greater political will for locally driven self-sustaining economic growth and development. “International development co-operation requires a facelift that begs support from traditional and non-traditional donors whose record of increasing support, even to the detriment of recipient nations continues,” a spokesperson for the Vanuatubased think-tank, the Paciic Institute of Public Policy (PIPP), told IPS. equally, “unwillingness or incapacity of our own Pacific leaders to halt the debilitating political mentality of aid dependence must be updated with an understanding of the political, economic and socio-cultural motivations of donor states that are not always altruistic.” major donors to the region include Australia, New Zealand, the european Union, United States, France and Japan with the growing presence of China. Aid supports governments,

community projects, local and regional organisations, such as the Secretariat of the Paciic Community, and the inter-governmental organisation, the Paciic Islands Forum (PIF). emele Duituturaga, executive director of the Pacific Islands Association of NonGovernmental organisations (PIANGo) in Suva, Fiji, believes the need for foreign aid will continue due to island states’ small isolated economies. “If foreign aid was seriously reduced, health and education standards would drastically reduce – with shortage of technical staff, lack of medicines and infrastructural challenges,” she declared. Papua New Guinea, which has natural resource wealth, including oil, copper, gold and natural gas, has so far failed to translate an economic growth rate of 6 to 11 per cent since 2007 into development progress. In 2013-14, it will receive $462 million, but isn’t expected to achieve any of the millennium Development Goals (mDGs). A core action by Paciic states to reduce aid reliance must be to “better govern our own budgets and machinery of government to make the most of our own resources and any foreign inputs,” PIPP said. Aid effectiveness is a key issue. Development assistance to oceania from the organisation for economic Co-operation and Development (oeCD) has increased from 1.2 billion dollars to 1.7 billion dollars since 2000. Currently aid dependent Paciic nations, including the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, the Federated States of micronesia (FSm),

marshall Islands and Tonga are not on track to overcome poverty (mDG1) by 2015. A 2009 community “aid listening” project in the Solomon Islands revealed issues such as misuse of aid funds, donor-led projects unaligned to local priorities, and “boomerang aid” characterised by large numbers of highly paid expatriate advisors and corporate contractors. According to PIPP, the impact of corruption on aid and development in the Pacific Islands is “staggering”, and “many in power have had an overwhelming tendency to personalise economic opportunities, public funds and resources”. Duituturaga said that donors often attribute greater fiduciary risk in giving funds to small community groups and instead direct aid to governments and large NGos that then misappropriate funds. Governments receive about 73 per cent of aid to the region, according to PIF. “Local communities need to be involved from the start to articulate an expressed need for donor funding and develop ownership and accountability for development assistance,” she said. For PIPP, quantity risks outdoing quality of some aid programmes. The Tongan government aid management division, for example, is significantly challenged with managing 200 different donor projects in a small island state of 105,000 people. Lack of consistent monitoring also means that credible data simply does not exist to meaningfully measure progress against quantitative goals. Donor practices often serve

foreign policy, rather than recipient development priorities. In 2002-03 Australia, the largest aid donor to the Paciic Islands, awarded aid contracts worth 58.3 million dollars, of which 47.8 million dollars went to Australian companies. Duituturaga said donors have a tendency to bring readymade solutions for the Paciic, instead of investing in Pacific people coming up with our own solutions guided by Paciic expertise. A 2011 independent Australian aid effectiveness review reported that use of Australian contractors had halved in the previous ive years. however, questions surrounding Australia’s aid programme and political objectives continue, most recently in relation to its controversial offshore asylum seeker detention centres that have been established in Paciic Islands such as Papua New Guinea. “Asking a developing nation that happens to be a resource rich neighbour suffering from internal and political woes to support a refugee policy that includes a dwindling devel-

Barred from visiting Nauru CANBeRRA – The President of Australia’s human Rights Commission says she has been barred from entering Nauru to visit children detained in Canberra’s asylum seeker camps. The Commission has launched an inquiry into the impact of detention on the health, well-being and development of children in the camps. But Professor Gillian Triggs

says her jurisdiction doesn’t extend to other countries, which is the reason Australia’s immigration minister, Scott morrison, has given for not letting her go to Nauru to investigate. “I should say that I nonetheless have the jurisdiction to consider complaints from families and from the children on those islands and, similarly, I have the power to inquire into why some

children are being transferred to Nauru and others are not. So, I think we should get some accurate, hopefully balanced information as to what’s happening with these children.” Triggs has expressed frustration at the level of co-operation from the Department of Immigration in handing over information on things like self harm and mental illness. - RNZI

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

LeTTeRS reta

Kia Ora decision is wrong Dear editor, Fact: one language dies every 14 days. By the next century nearly half of the roughly 7000 languages spoken on earth will likely disappear, as communities abandon native tongues in favour of english, mandarin, or Spanish. Given that the Cook Islands language is one of many seriously threatened, we should be doing everything we can to preserve all the dialects in our country. So it makes me really annoyed to learn that the chief executive officer of a Cook Islands based branch of a New Zealand company is instructing all his staff to greet customers with “Kia ora” instead of our own beautiful and meaningful

Kia orana. Air NZ chief executive oficer David Bridge, what you are insisting your staff do is wrong. If you claim that it is company policy that applies internationally and that Air NZ branches the world over all greet customers with “Kia ora”, I say that’s hogwash. I travel Air NZ. Not one staff member in New Zealand, Britain or France has ever greeted me with Kia ora – what I have heard is “hi, hello, Bonjour”. I mean, David, Air NZ staff in New Zealand don’t even say Kia ora but you’re trying to force Cook Islanders to replace our own greeting with that of another country. Yes they are similar, yes it does belong to a Polynesian

people, yes we are connected to the NZ maori – but Kia ora is theirs. Kia orana is ours. What David is trying to do smacks of colonialism and he should stop being a Pooh-Bah and let us Cook Islanders get on with greeting visitors and customers with our own Kia orana. It is the most beautiful greeting one can say to another person – “may you live long”. It wasn’t that long ago that Cook Islands children were being punished for speaking our native maori in schools. What will happen to staff who refuse to say Kia ora David? It also wasn’t that long ago there was widespread concern here that the greeting heard at the largest hotels on Rarotonga was “bula”

and not Kia orana. Should we not be again concerned that our own endangered language is being undermined? I’m sure the New Zealand media would love to hear about this. So I might just put it on Facebook so Barbara Dreaver and all the other reporters will eventually get to read about it. Name and address supplied

David Bridge, Air New Zealand Manager, Cook Islands responds: A letter published in the Cook Islands News has questioned why Air New Zealand staff greet customers with Kia ora as opposed to Kia orana when in Rarotonga. As the national carrier of New Zealand Kia ora is as inextrica-

bly linked with Air New Zealand as our Koru, highlighting our unique Kiwi heritage through the use of one of our national languages. We want our customers to experience the Kiwi spirit throughout their journey, and this greeting is part of that unique offering. Air New Zealand staff greet customers with Kia ora across our international and domestic networks and at each port we operate, be it in Shanghai or honolulu, Japan or the Cook Islands. This ensures a consistent, unique and appropriate greeting for our customers. Air New Zealand prides itself on its uniquely Kiwi service. We believe it’s this Kiwi service

that sets Air New Zealand apart from other carriers, and understand that for many visitors who choose to make the journey to New Zealand – and ly Air New Zealand – their irst impression of the country and our unique maori culture is formed from the minute they first encounter our friendly staff who greet them using the traditional Kia ora. We have a long and very proud history of lying visitors to the picturesque Cook Islands and recently celebrated 40 years of lying to Rarotonga. Air New Zealand supports the Cooks on an ongoing basis through marketing campaigns that highlight its beauty, its culture and its people.

Where was the attempt at mediation? Dear editor, I write in response to your CI edition January 30, 2014 which contained an article titled “CIFA articles to be moni-

tored” by Tai Nicholas, General Secretary of the oceania Football Confederation (oFC). Firstly, I don’t particularly like the way this newspaper

promotes gossip and passive slandering and I will very rarely consider responding to any article written in it, but this particular article really annoyed

me to the point that I felt the impulse to comment from an ordinary Cook Islander’s perspective and that of a soccer enthusiast.

Do something about dogs Dear editor, I am sick to death of all the fighting, menacing threats, irritating noise, defecating on the beach and public mating I continually had to witness, be it night or day, while on holiday in January in Rarotonga. No, I am not talking about the wonderful Cook Island people but their wretched, uncontrolled dogs, which seem to roam the Island with all the en-

titlement of a street gang. We are repeat visitors but have noticed no let-up in the menacing dogs and have at least half a dozen nasty encounters to report over the last two years alone. This year we were kept awake night after night by the near continuous barking, fighting and howling of a pack of dogs in the Arorangi area. I was mortiied to see a young female dog in heat

being held down and mated by a gang of four dogs and then while emerging from a swim in the sea to yet another pack of dogs running into the water violently barking and snapping at me. I had to turn around and quickly swim back out to deeper water and I waited for around 10 minutes treading water till they gave up pursuing me. most of the dogs appeared to not be de-sexed which only in-

creases aggression and unwanted puppies, there is no excuse to not de-sex your dog given there is both the SPCA and esther honey to assist. Rarotongan authorities need to come down hard on lax owners who turn a blind eye to their dog’s bad behaviour as it is a real blight and threat for both tourists and locals. Sally Thomson-Gregg, Wellington, New Zealand.

I truly felt that the article was directed at all Cook Islanders and that from the comforts of another country the general secretary of the oFC felt it necessary to make such a comment. First, the article emphasised that fact that every Cook Islander has “the fundamental right to free speech and the ability of the community to comment on all football matters”...”as is their right” , but then went on to literally plant the seed of fear in the hearts of each of us in what I would describe as an act in the biblical context of the mighty ‘Goliath’. oFC went on to reiterate its position and that of CIFA and FIFA and that should any Cook Islander dare to venture on the path of free speech, that the ‘Goliaths of the soccer world would thrust their almighty sword down on them (quote ...“have no hesitation to instigate relevant court proceedings against the Cook Islands News”) or anyone else for that matter, noting the recent case handled by CIFA and oFC, at what I would describe as hanging Cook Islanders in the square “so to speak”, as has been the case with recent judgements against Cook Islands gentlemen Brian Boudinet, Cameron Robertson and Tony Jamieson, as a sign of what is to come so dare to venture against

them. Where is the article from mr Nicholas that looks to bring together small island communities; where is the article that looks to mediation and to iron out sensitive issues for the betterment of the game and all concerned, not just the powers that be; where is the article that shows the vulnerable side of oFC and FIFA that looks to give reassurance to the little people that turn up year after year whom without, there would be no CIFA or oFC or FIFA. editor, I don’t believe Cook Islanders want to hear threats. What I do believe they want to hear are solutions. I, for one, am happy to help ind solutions to the many concerns being raised but I would admit, that has been dificult to do with the current CIFA and I hope not, oFC regime. having coached for almost a decade at the matavera club, I am very concerned at the current state of play of soccer and more importantly, the manner in which apparent welcomed rights to free speech are being handled. Surely this cannot continue? Danny Williams (executive member and Soccer Coach – matavera Club)

Corrections I N A LeTTeR to the editor named ‘People in manihiki are also Cook Islanders’ (Saturday February 1), a picture was run alongside the letter that was captioned as ‘Secretary of Infrastructure Cook Islands, mac mokoroa’, who was the author of the letter. The photo was not of mac mokoroa but of police inspector John hosking, who

Cook Islands News Building Maraerenga avarua Rarotonga PO Box 15 Rarotonga Tel (682) 22999 Fax 25303 Email: editor@cookislandsnews.com or adverts@cookislandsnews.com

www.cookislandsnews.com Daily Monday to Saturday

has no connection to the letter. monday’s story (“minimum wage to be reviewed” – February 3) failed to mention Community Representative Andrew Turua as one of the members of a panel that has been created to review the minimum wage in the Cook Islands. CI News regrets the error.

Managing Editor John Woods john@cookislandsnews.com Financial Controller Liz Woods lizw@cookislandsnews.com General Manager Tony Fe’ao tony@cookislandsnews.com Editor Mark Ebrey mark@cookislandsnews.com Deputy Editor Matariki Wilson matariki@cookislandsnews.com Online & Social Networking Editor Briar Douglas briar@cookislandsnews.com Reporters Emmanuel Samoglou emmanuel@cookislandsnews.com Ben Chapman-Smith ben@cookislandsnews.com Rachel Reeves rachel@cookislandsnews.com Court Reporter Merita Wi-Kaitaia merita@cookislandsnews.com Advertising adverts@cookislandsnews.com Oice Manager Tere Joseph tere@cookislandsnews.com Accounts Manager Tangi Tauira tangi@cookislandsnews.com Reception Kura Tauira reception@cookislandsnews.com Oice staf Apii Tua apii@cookislandsnews.com Graphic Design & Layout Mahai Daniel mahai@cookislandsnews.com Adam Tutuvanu adam@cookislandsnews.com Web Developer Daniel Rolls dan@cookislandsnews.com Print Manager Dan Johnston danj@cookislandsnews.com Printers Dennis Campos, Lai Gukisuva

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

Super fund case defendant ‘vindicated’ The DeFeNDANT at the forefront of the recently decided superannuation fund court case is elated with last week’s outcome. Local business owner Andy

olah – along with six other defendants, including his own company Arorangi Timberland – had criminal charges brought against him by authorities in

2007 for the non-payment of contributions to the Cook Islands National Superannuation Fund (CINSF). Those proceedings eventually

Arorangi Timberland staf members (L-R) accounts manager Memory Heather, owner Andy Olah, and sales manager Pikitua heather, also the mother of Memory. The trio are elated with the recent super fund high Court decision. 14020407

turned into a constitutional battle played out in the Cook Islands high Court, where defence lawyer Tim Arnold argued that the legislation behind the superfund was unconstitutional. A court decision released late last week by Chief Justice Thomas Weston upheld Arnold’s argument, resulting in the legislation being declared unconstitutional. “We at Arorangi Timberland feel totally vindicated by Chief Justice Weston’s decision,” said olah. “At the very outset, now so many years ago, my staff and I felt very uncomfortable at being forced to pay into the scheme as it stood, with clearly so many deiciencies.” As the case played out over the past six years, olah called for support from the public while making a plea for donations to support the legal effort.

Tourist attacked by three dogs on beach AN AUSTRIAN tourist had to be

rushed to hospital on Sunday morning after being attacked by three dogs on the beach. Walter Stopfer and his partner Josefa Stoeckelmaier, who are on their fifth holiday in the Cook Islands, were out for a stroll near edgewater Resort when the incident happened. “Three dogs came down onto the beach. They were crazy and came and bit my leg,” Stopfer said. The elderly man sustained two nasty bites to his right leg before managing to kick the dogs away. Stopfer, who speaks only a little english, made his way to the edgewater and was lucky enough to ind a fellow Austrian working there. Roland Neururer, food and beverage manager, acted as translator and said Stopfer’s wounds were “quite severe”. “he was just going into the water and that’s when these three dogs came right down to

the water’s edge and bit him. he was in quite a bit of pain.” Neururer said towels were wrapped around Stopfer’s leg to stop the blood, which was “pouring out like madness”. Staff at the edgewater took him to Rarotonga hospital where he received an injection, medication and dressing. hospital workers notified the police, who have since interviewed the Austrian couple. Stopfer is not happy about the attack but it will not be enough to stop him returning to the island, Neururer said. “he’s disappointed he can’t go for a swim during his last week on holiday but he will still come back. It has really dampened his holiday.” The attack comes as members of the tourism sector meet at a stakeholder’s forum to discuss problems - including dog attacks - which could affect the country’s tourism industry. - Ben Chapman-Smith

“While Timberland took the brunt of this legal challenge, everyone in the Cook Islands who pays into the scheme will beneit,” he said. “Hopefully the government and the relevant authorities will work towards making the scheme foolproof and workable for the long-term beneit of all.” In his decision, Justice Weston sided with Arnold and his claim that the constitution – speciically Article 64(1) (c) and the right to own property – was being contravened by the Act. In court, Arnold argued contributions made on behalf of workers and employers to the fund were being taken without guarantee of compensation. As stated in CINSF literature, the government and the fund’s board do not guarantee the investment of contributions or earnings of the fund. “I felt uncomfortable that my money was being taken away,” said Arorangi Timberland’s accounts manager memory heather.

While clear to olah and his staff that there were problems with the super fund, the business owner said it was disappointing that oficials didn’t recognise the same issues when the scheme was “shunted” on to the public. “It should have been clear to the purported ‘experts’,” he said. “... or was it a case of the emperor’s new clothes? And no one wanted to see the problem?” Despite the declaration, the criminal charges initially laid against seven defendants for non-compliance, including manea Foods, Beco Ltd, James Beer, Super Brown Ltd and Raina Trading Ltd, still stand and wait to be dealt with by the courts. “Ultimately, I have to say there is really one hero in this saga, and that is Tim Arnold,” said olah. “he saw, as we did, that the scheme as it stood back then was seriously lawed and he agreed to take on the challenge.” “I think the people of the Cook Islands owe him a big meitaki maata.” - Emmanuel Samoglou

Walter stopfer and his partner Josefa stoeckelmaier were out walking on sunday morning when the three dogs attacked him. 14020432

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

is it an oil slick?

14020315/14020316

WEDNESDAY 5th FEBRUARY 2014 PROGRAMME With ExPEctED OUtcOMES 8.00AM 8.30AM 8.35AM 8.40AM

REGiStRAtiON AND WELcOME OPENiNG PRAYER WELcOME ADDRESS OBJEctiVES OF thE PROGRAMME

Outcomes and objecives are clearly outlined and explained 8.50AM

AUt SURVEY FiNDiNGS SUMMARY REPORt Apr 2012 – Mar 2013

9.15AM

Jul 2013 –Sep 2013

PANEL DiScUSSiON 1 MOSt APPEALiNG ELEMENtS FOR ViSitORS – PEOPLE, ENViRONMENt, cULtURE Key posiive elements of annual internaional visitor survey indings are debated by relevant stakeholders

10.00AM 10.15AM

MORNiNG tEA PANEL DiScUSSiON 2 LEASt APPEALiNG ELEMENtS FOR ViSitORS DOGS, DRiVERS LicENSES, cUStOMER SERVicE, tRANSPORt, AccOMMODAtiON Key negaive elements of annual internaional visitor survey indings are debated by relevant stakeholders

11.30AM

WORKiNG GROUP SESSiON 1

Break-out sessions focused on acion items that individuals or organisaions can take ownership of to address or improve on the issue / focus areas given.

FOcUS AREA A: Enhancing the Experience

BeAChGoeRS were treated to

a stunning sight on monday when a massive school of fish swarmed through the lagoon in front of manuia Beach Resort in Arorangi.

“At first it looked like an oil slick, but our brave guests jumped into the lagoon with a waterproof camera to solve the mystery. Turns out it was a huge school of small ish, apparently a

very rare occurrence,” said resort manager Alex Root-Reed who shared this photo. Inset is a close up of the swarming fish photographed by Chris Roberts. - BCS

Tai in bachelor comp LoCAL male model and actor Tai Mackenzie is one of 12 inalists in the ‘Bachelor of the Year 2014’ competition being run by New Zealand Cleo magazine. The 22-year-old model/actor is being described as a ‘bronze babe’ by the online version of the tween magazine and that’s probably from his years spent growing up on the island feeding pigs, climbing coconut trees and enjoying the sea. The son of Teina mackenzie and big brother to three sisters Czaria, Lexi and Che as well as two brothers Fraser Nia and enere – mackenzie is based in Wellington and pursuing a career in acting. The former Takitumu School, Avarua School, Nukutere College and Tereora College student dreams of conquering the big screen and his notable

achievements to date include playing a role in the inal Spartacus episodes; having a feature role in Power Rangers and featuring in the first edition of the Sylvia Park mall shopping catalogue. on the online Cleo website where the contestants are proiled – Mackenzie is described as passionate, smiley and a total lover of everything to do with the sun, sand and sea. With his profile is a quick questionnaire: Q: What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time? A: Playing ball (1 on 1 or 3 on 3) or being in the water catching surf at home in the Cook Islands with the beautiful, warm, tropical water near the reef that has blessed me with my battle scars. Q: how would you describe your party personality?

A: ‘The PARTY IS heRe!’ as I enter the room. Q: What’s the best thing about summer? A: The fact that everything is so lively and eventful! People get outside and enjoy the beautiful sunny days, whether it is at the beach or grabbing a drink with mates #winning #summerishere! Q: What’s the craziest thing you have ever done? A: I jumped off the world’s highest indoor bungy at Canada’s West edmonton mall… then I was stupid enough to walk back up and do it again! It’s still the best thrill I’ve ever had. To vote for Tai – get on to the Cleo New Zealand site and support the aspiring big screen actor. - Matariki Wilson

GROUP A: INTERACTION WITH THE ENVIRONMENT GROUP B: VOLUNTOURISM AND ‘GIVING BACK’ GROUP c: HIGHLIGHTING OUR CULTURE, PEOPLE AND HISTORY AA: Lists of Points of interest, Geological Features, Tracks and Trails including their stories. AB: Suggested aciviies for visitors to paricipate in where they can be given a sense of ‘giving back’ to the community they have visited. Ac: Lists of products, events or tours that highlight these to visitors.

FOcUS AREA B: improving the Yield GROUP A: QUALITY ASSURANCE AND MINIMUM STANDARDS GROUP B: CUSTOMER SERVICE AND CARE GROUP c: NICHE MARKETS AND PRODUCTS BA: Suggested improvements to the current Accreditaion Scheme BB: Areas of concern with lack of Customer Service and Care Bc: Lists of products and infrastructure required to open up niche markets 12.15PM

REPORtiNG ON WORKiNG GROUP SESSiON 1

Group reports acion items, recommendaions, and issues raised, to be used in strategic planning and reporing

FOcUS AREA A: Enhancing the Experience (Groups 5 mins each) FOcUS AREA B: Improving the Yield (Groups 5 mins each) 12.45PM

END OF DAY ONE – BUFFEt LUNch

If you have any quesions regarding the above please contact Noeline Mateariki on telephone (+682) 29435 or email noeline.mateariki@cookislands.gov.ck

Local lad Tai Mackenzie needs your vote on his quest to become Bachelor of the year 2014 in the new Zealand Cleo Magazine competition. 14020301

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

Pukapuka barge due to depart A BARGe carrying machinery

and workers to repair Pukapuka’s rundown airport is scheduled to leave Rarotonga this weekend. No planes can land on the island until the runway – which has been deemed unsafe by Air Rarotonga – has been repaired. malcolm Sword, from Cook Islands General Transport, said the barge is due to be loaded up on Thursday and Friday. “Weather permitting, we’ll be leaving on the weekend.” A group of teachers trying to reach Pukapuka – who have already missed the start of the school year – will be keenly watching the barge’s progress. The new principal, two new teachers and a return-

ing tertiary programme coordinator have been stranded in Rarotonga waiting for the runway to be ixed. Yitiri Akama, a technician from the ministry of Infrastructure and Planning, said the barge will be carrying heavy machinery, a grader, and ive workers to the northern island. he said the journey will take about six days and the repair work about a month. Sword predicted the repair work would take less time than that. “I would expect in the next two to three weeks Air Rarotonga will go up and do their survey and if they’re happy with it, they’ll start lying.” Pukapuka’s runway is 30 metres wide and 1600 metres long, with more than half currently in a state of

disrepair. The runway is not sealed but has been created out of compacted coral. Akama said about one foot of material will be scraped off the surface, mixed up and then compacted back onto the runway. The runway was re-opened in late December after a member of the island’s community passed away suddenly in Rarotonga. ewan Smith, general manager of Air Rarotonga, said the pilots who lew the man’s body to Pukapuka were not happy about landing there again until more permanent repairs were made. “It was dried up but the crew reported it was still very soft.” - Ben Chapman-Smith

The barge being used to transport materials and workers to Pukapuka, seen docked in rarotonga’s avatiu harbour. 14020313

Facebook page calls for ban on foreign investment A FACeBooK page set up earlier

this year calls for a ban of foreign investment in the Cook Islands. The campaign has been set up for “For those against the further sale of the Cook Islands assets (business and land) to foreign investors and the protection of the Cook Islands our people,” reads the ‘about’ section on the Facebook page. Since being set up on January 1, the page has garnered 257 likes. A posting says is has been created for “... those who are against ‘further’ foreign investment in the Cook Islands”. The author says foreign direct investment (FDI) has reached a “tipping point” with local residents in danger of losing their sovereignty “to foreign commercial interests”. “We believe that the sale of Cook Islands assets, business and land

must stop,” reads the page. “Let’s protect our country and our people”. The page claims a survey was undertaken in 2008 by the Business Trade and Investment Board (BTIB), where the agency is said to have surveyed Cook Islanders to gauge local attitudes on the topic of foreign investment. “All respondents were against foreign investment with the majority wanting it to be banned altogether,” claims the page’s creator. “Since then neither the Democratic Party or CIP-led governments have done anything to address this issue. We demand that actions be taken that reflects the will of the people of the Cook Islands not the banks or foreign money,” reads the page. It is not known who is behind the online campaign. - Emmanuel Samoglou

a Facebook page calling for a ban on ‘further’ foreign investment in the Cook islands has accumulated over 250 likes since it was created last month. 14020319.

Albacore assessors seek local input The CooK ISLANDS albacore

longline fishery is currently undergoing assessment against the marine Stewardship Council (mSC) principles and criteria for sustainable ishing. The Cook Islands longline tuna ishery is managed domestically by the ministry of marine Resources, and regionally by the Western and Central Paciic Fisheries Commission (WCPFC). Vessels are owned by the Chinese companies Luen Thai

Fishing Venture Ltd (LTFV), Liancheng overseas Fishery (Shenzhen) Company, China Southern Fishery (Shenzhen) Company, and the China Fishing Agency. The mSC is an eco-labelling programme promoting the best environmental choice in seafood. For more information please see www.msc.org There are 17 mSC certified tuna fisheries across the Pacific and Indian oceans of which seven are the highly migratory

Albacore species. The assessment team is currently in Rarotonga until February 8 to gather available evidence on the ishery and consult with stakeholders. Anyone with an interest in the ishery is invited to meet the team the coming days (please contact Ben Ponia at 55524 as soon as possible). Alternatively, comments can be submitted via email Chrissie. sieben@macalister-elliott.com - MSC Release/ES

BTIB to deal with vacancies The BUSINeSS Trade and Investment Board (BTIB) is looking to address two vacancies on its board. New members to the board are appointed by the member of cabinet responsible for the BTIB – currently minister Kiriau Turepu – member of Parliament for matavera. Turepu said he will begin to address the issue of appointing two new members to the board once fully briefed by BTIB officials, and intends to include cabinet in that discussion. Current members of the

board include chairman George Pitt, Karl Numanga and Johnstone Dyer Tamaka from mauke. Last month, mata Price resigned from the board, and Ngatikai Pureariki from Aitutaki had their term expire last october. Various functions of the BTIB include the examination and processing of applications for foreign enterprise registration, approving land leases for foreign companies, local product and trade development, along with investment promotion and facilitation.

Along with Rarotonga-based members, Pitt said the board also strives to include members from the outer islands. With a signiicant foothold in tourism, a member from Aitutaki is traditionally included on the board, along with a member from mauke - due to its plans for signiicant investment in its agriculture sector. “It helps to have someone out there in case opportunities arise there,” said Pitt. Last June, Pitt was announced as chairman, replacing Grant Priest. - ES

Local isherman Pupuke Robati with American angler Brian Donnelly and a choice albacore tuna caught trolling last year. 13100457

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

classiieds pupu kite ngai okotai EMAiL

PhONE

adverts@cookislandsnews.com

Fax 25303

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES TO: ThE LANDOWNERS OF PaENUI SECTION 89B, aRORANGI The Mortgagee of a Deed of Lease of the above land situated in arorangi, Rarotonga in the area of 389m2 has entered into an agreement for the sale of the remainder of the term of the Deed of Lease by way of assignment. The sale is subject, among other things, to the landowners waiving their right of irst refusal in respect of the sale and (in the event of them waiving that right), the consent of the majority of the landowners resident in Rarotonga to the sale by way of assignment. Should you wish to exercise the right of irst refusal as a landowner and purchase the leasehold interest you have one month from Friday, 31 January 2014 to notify us in writing. Details of the proposed sale, including the price, and of the purchasers are available to landowners whose names appear on the Register of Titles, on request to: Charles Little at Little & Matysik P.C., Cook Islands Lawyers, avarua, Rarotonga, Tel: 21619, Fax 21615 or email: charles@ lawyers.co.ck 76676 / /1780

ThE iNCORPORATED SOCiETiES ACT 1994 SECTiON 26 REMINDER TO INCORPORaTED SOCIETY OWNERS Incorporated Society Owners are reminded that the iling of your Societies annual Financial Statement at the Ministry of Justice oice for 1st July 2013 to 30 June 2014 period are due, and any outstanding years. Failure to comply with the statutory requirements of the Incorporated Societies act may result in your Society being struck of the Register or the Societies Executives being prosecuted. For enquiries contact the Companies Oice on phone 29410 or call at the oice of the Ministry of Justice, avarua, Rarotonga, ask for Ruth areai, Companies Clerk. Dated at Rarotonga this 4 February 2014. MaRIE HaUPINI DEPUTY REGISTRaR OF INCORPORaTED SOCIETIES. 76770 / /1796

DEVELOPMENT hOLDiNGS LiMiTED Our oice will be open from the 6 to 14 February from 10am to 2pm only. Meitaki maata. 76745 / /1915

Autism Cook islands ph 24065/55976

tiateura@oyster.net.ck

Palmerston Meeting The aGM of the Marsters Family will be held Wednesday 12 February, 7pm, Pukapuka Hall to select the Board of Trustees for the Palmerston Meeting House. Nomination forms are available from Nane Holmes @ USP or Email naneholmes@gmail.com 76724 /36213 /1931

TENDERS

PUBLIC NOTICES

Ministry of Transport Boat Master Certiicate Course. a Cook Islands Boatmaster Certiicate Course will be held over two weeks from 10 February to 20 February. Hours are 5pm to 8.30pm Monday to Thursday each week. all boat operators and interested parties, male or female, over 18 years of age are encouraged to attend. Numbers strictly limited so enrol early. Payment of Course Fee of $50 will secure a place. application forms may be obtained from the Ministry of Transport in avatiu. Phone Steve Simpson on 28810 or Mobile 55605 for details. 76703 / /1764

PUBLIC NOTICES

SERVICES

Rarotonga Netball Centre inc. annual General Meeting Date - Wednesday 26 February 2014 Venue - NCI Oice Time - 6pm Agenda 1. Opening Prayer 2. Previous aGM Minutes 3. Matters arising from Minutes. 4. President’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report 6. Election of Oice Bearers 7. Other Matters 8. Closing Prayer President.

Uipaanga Atu Enua Arevai 129a1, Tupapa Kite are Uipaanga Tupapa Nui ra 7 o Peperuare nei 2014, 5.30 ite aiai. au akakoroanga: • Patianga Turanga are • Turanga o te Marae • Taoanga komono o Te Ariki Taraare Mataiapo • Manako keke Landowners meeting at Tupapa Nui Meeting house, 7 February 2014 at 5.30pm. agenda: • Request for Occupation Right • Reserve for Marae • Power of attorney for Te ariki Taraare Mataiapo • Other matters Meitaki maata.

Pool Doctor * Water testing * chlorine * P.H down * Bufer Discounted rates FREE DELIVERY Phone Tony 56599.

76654 /36182 /1931

Mongoose Rugby Club annual General Meeting THU 20 FEBRUaRY 6.30pm at Roses Garden - The House of Knowledge. Agenda: • Opening Prayer • Presidents Report • Financial Report • Election of Oicers • Other Business all members please attend. 76769 / /2511

AGM NCI will be holding its aGM on Monday, 24 February 2014, 6pm at NCI’s oice, Nikao. Agenda: 1.annual Report 2.Financial Report 3.Election of Elected Board members 4.Remits Enquiries to admin Manager, NCI on 22840 or 54243, Email: admin@netball.co.ck

COOK iSLANDS GAME FiShiNG CLUB WEIGHMaSTERS COMP The annual weighmaster’s comp will be run on Saturday 8th February between the hours of 0600 and 1700 with prize giving at 1830. This comp is open to inancial members of the club and $20 boat registration must be paid at the bar before 2330 on Friday 7 Feb aNNUaL GENERaL MEETING The aGM of the Cook Islands Game Fishing Club will be held on Saturday 1 March at 1400. 76716 / /1956

PUBLIC NOTICES

SUPPLY OF WATER TANKS AND CONSTRUCTiON MATERiALS FOR ThE iSLANDS OF AiTUTAKi, ATiU AND PALMERSTON CONTRACT NO. SRiCCC C01/13 Strengthening the Resilience of our islands and our Communities to Climate Change (SRiC - CC) the Oice of the Prime minister through the climate Change Coordination Unit wishes to seek tender proposals from Suppliers for the Supply of water Tanks and construction materials for the Islands of Aitutaki, Atiu and Palmerston. tender documents including speciications can be collected during work hours from the Oice of the Prime Minister in Parekura. Tenders close 12pm, 7 February 2014 and must be submitted to the Oice of the Prime Minister in a sealed envelope and clearly marked “Supply of Water Tanks and Construction Materials for the islands of Aitutaki, Atiu and Palmerston Contract No. SRiC-CC C01/13” and addressed to: chief of Staf Oice of the Prime minister Private Bag Avarua rarotonga A non-refundable payment of $150 will be required for a copy of the Tender Document All enquiries to Daryl rairi, SrIc-cc technical Assistant, Telephone 55064, or email daramide@oyster.net.ck 76488

Casual ads must be prepaid. Cancellation fee $6.40 incl. VaT. Quotations on request.

1pm sharp. Material deadline for display adverts 24 hours prior.

76682 /36192 /2113

OffIce Of the PrIme mInSter

RATES Minimum $5.80 incl. VaT for 1-15 words.

DEADLiNES Deadline for next day’s classiieds is

22999

preferred

ENViRONMENT SERViCE PUBLiC NOTiCE

Environmental impact Assessment (EiA) Reports Government Departments, Agencies and the General Public are hereby advised that the environment Service has received the following application for a Project Permit as required under Section 36 of the environment Act 2003. Application: 1. TE MATO VAI PROJECT Project: Phase.1 – the Proposed ring Water reticulation Upgrade (Ara tapu and Ara metua) for rarotonga. Land: Te-Au-o-Tonga District, Puaikura District, Takitumu District. In accordance with subsection 5 a) and c) of Section 36 of the environment Act 2003, any person, Government Agencies or Organisation who wish to make a written submission for or against the granting of a Project Permit by the environment Service for this applications, may do so within 30 days commencing on the 30th day of January 2014. Written submissions may be in cook Islands maori or english be submitted to the National environment Service no later than the 28th day of February 2014. eIA reports for the above applications may be viewed at the following venues or on NeS website: www.environment. gov.ck neS Oice takuvaine, Super Browns Kiikii 6-11 Shop Muri wigmores Vaimaanga rite Price Shop Akaoa Turamatuitui Shop Tereora

national Library maraerenga, Matavera Traders Matavera Muri Akapuao Store Akapuao Kavera Shop Kavera, Oasis nikao Tauae Shop Takuvaine

Director environment Service 777

76673 /36189 /1931

Titikaveka Rugby League Club notice Our village will be hosting the aitutaki Sharks to a spread after the Premier game. Friday 7 Feb 2014 Starts 7pm @ Kent Hall Please bring a plate Meitaki Maata President, Club captain and aronga Mana. 76766 / /2557

LOST Black/green BBQ lid with handle fell of truck in aorangi on 3 Monday February, reward for the return. Please call 55018.

76290 / /1708

Grounds Maintenance Services Need your lawns and hedge trimmed and/or maintained? No job is too big or too small for us to handle. Give us a call at T&S Ltd on 29069 or 70716/52914 for a free quote. 76707 /36208 /1931

Mower Grasscutter chainsaw repairs as well as chainsaw sharpening Phone 71733. 76741 / /2561

Action Man Mowing Services all jobs big or small, free quote. also introducing coconut tree de-nutting services. Give Clint a call on 52074. 76743 / /2561

RENOVATiONS DECKS, KITCHENS OR COMPLETE HOUSES, MORTGaGE aRRaNGEMENTS. FREE QUOTE, NO OBLIGaTION. RING RIMaTOa BUILDERS on 55070 or see Gus at our workshop in Nikao (opp Dentist, formerly Land Holdings Premises). 76748 / /2625

76775 /36259 /1931

RESULTS rale draw aitutaki sharks rale Name Contact Ticket 1st Tiny N 73768 5563 2nd Christmas 73102 0818 3rd My Birthday 75633 1932 4th Big L 50455 3996 5th 52999 52999 2968 6th Terito Pi Titikaveka 0124 7th Rima Tupapa 4155 8th aletha 31350 3857 9th House Fire 50231 5013 10th Baby Mundi 75206 5118 Rarotonga winners please contact Fraser Nooroa on 55787 to collect your prizes. aitutaki winners please contact Terangi Tamati on 55209 to collect you prizes. 76757 /36248 /2442

FOR SALE Tiare Taina blooms, $10 a bag. Phone Joyce 20201. 76762 / /1917

P & D Daycare Pre and after school Daycare service. Inquiries 27300 or 55300. 76772 /36256 /1931

Peyroux Motor Services Friendly, Local, Professional & Honest. Repairs to string trimmers, chainsaws, mowers, marine & stationary engines, Vaimaanga. Phone 52414. 76680 /36062 /1931

FOR RENT 3 bedroom partly furnished home in Titikaveka $250 a week. Contact 51403. 76774 /36258 /1931

Rooms $70 wk, suitable female with sober habits. Ph 20201 Monday to Friday, 9 to 5pm. 76768 / /1917

2 bedroom modern house in Tikioki. available for rent, fully furnished at $250 per week. Phone Mii 27258. 76760 /36251 /1931

SITUATIONS VACANT

cOOk ISLAnDS SPOrtS & nAtIOnAL OLymPIc cOmmIttee

JOB VACANCiES As part of the restructuring process within cISnOc, the following full-time positions are available; • Sports manager • Administration Oicer • finance Oicer Based in rarotonga, the appointees will report to the ceO / Secretary General of cISnOc and will be responsible for the daily business conducted and coordinated through cISnOc. For a full listing of the Job Description, please contact the cISnOc Oice, or email robert Graham on rgraham@cisnoc.org.ck All applications will be in strict conidence. Applications close friday 14 february 2014 at 12noon. 76559

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

Production/Sales Position (Fulltime) We are looking for an energetic, well presented person to join our organisation. The successful applicant must also have a “can do” attitude and be a team player. Manufacturing experience will be an advantage. The role will require some heavy lifting at times. a current Cook Islands driver’s license is essential. application forms are available from our premises in Ruatonga. application closes Monday 10 February.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Motor car Primacy, $7000. Phone 20813 or 58313.

Payroll Oicer The Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM) is seeking a suitable person to ill the position of ‘Payroll Oicer’. The position will assist the Payroll Supervisor in managing and co-ordinating the payroll function of the Ministry and for the whole of Government. Personal Speciication: • Good oral and written communication skills • ability to work productively in a team environment • Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel • Experience in Finance/ICT related ield The position has been sized by the PSC at band ‘F’ (between $16,860 and $22,811). an electronic copy of the job description can be emailed to you upon request or download from www.mfem.gov.ck Please apply in writing to the Treasury Operations Manager, MFEM, PO Box 120, Rarotonga or email (vacancy@ cookislands.gov.ck) by Friday 7 February 2014.

76761 /36250 /1931

76529 /36245 /1843

76751 / /2107

We are currently seeking the following: 1. Assistant chef/cook 2. Pastry Chef 3. Professional Bartender/ Supervisor all positions require skilled, experienced, matured and hands on person. To apply: Email CV to beachbar@waterline.co.ck or call 56214. 76571 / /2247

VEhICLES FOR SALE

SITUATIONS VACANT

Local Charter Business looking for experienced Deckhand/Skipper Experience in management, mechanics, engineering an advantage. Please apply in writing to PO Box 276, avarua.

Female Waitress required for a restaurant. Training provided for the right candidate. Experience preferred. Phone 22279 or 75422.

hEAVY DiESEL ENGiNEER

76737 /36223 /1931

Paciic resort hotel Group A Great Place to Work… we are currently seeking the following: • restaurant & Bar staf • chefs, cooks and kitchen hands • team Leaders & Supervisors • Project coordinator • housekeeping Staf • Beach Activities staf • carpenter/ Handyman • Groundsmen To apply email: work@paciicresort. com or contact Ani Thompson on 53731

www.paciicresort. com

76723 / /2199

Caregiver required. Must have drivers license, experience and references. Phone 51767. 76763 / /2414

WANTED TO BUy

To maintain 36 tonne excavators, trucks, generators, water pumps, hydraulic systems etc. top rates of Pay. Must be able to start work mid- March 2014. Send CV to Landholdings Ltd landholdings@oyster.net.ck or drop of to oice in Panama. 76562

honda 90 engine, working condition. Phone 26575 Sonny.

We are on the move

76746 /36226 /1931

foundation

ph 22336

animal Clinic

SITUATIONS VACANT

FOUND Notices are FREE To encourage honesty and good citizenship.

Front oice Looking for energetic with a good personality positive person to join our reception operation. Fulltime work available and must be keen and willing to learn. experience deinitely a bonus but not essential.

Carpenter / handyman Full time work for the right applicant who is versatile and able to help our small team complete our renovation project. Contact Louis 55369 or email: Louis@clubraro.co.ck 76733

A Cook Islands News public service.

76521

SITUATIONS VACANT

OFFiCE AND FiNANCE MANAGER

support staf

te tAnGO tUtArA O te tUre (mInIStry Of JUStIce)

VACANCY A vacancy exists within the Ministry of Justice for;

Court Stenographer Applications for the above vacancies should be addressed to: Secretary (Vacancy) Ministry of Justice PO Box 111 rArOtOnGA Or via email to chenry-anguna@justice.gov.ck Copies of Job Descriptions can be obtained at the Ministry of Justice. Applications close on Friday 7 February 2014 at 4pm. 76602

Job Opportunities kia Orana! - the edgewater resort & Spa are currently seeking full time and part time staf. If you are a team player and have the ability to work under pressure and multitask - then we are looking for you! All applicants must have: Good communication skills, be honest and reliable, conidence and personality - full training will be provided for the right applicants. The positions available are: • restaurant cleaner (6-12midday) • Waitress / waiter (full & part time) • Demi chefs • kitchen hand • housekeeping Supervisor • housemaids for further queries, please contact the hr & training manager Jef tIkItAU on ph 58008 or Lynn mAtAIO on ph 55469. Application forms are also available from reception. Look forward to meeting you! 76629

Vacancies exist for the following part time positions: 1. teacher Aide (Inclusive education) • Apii te Uki Ou (2 positions) • rutaki School (1 position) • takitumu School (1 position) 2. teacher Aide (ece) - 2 positions • Arorangi School • Omoka School, Penryhn 3. Grounds/Maintenance position: Avatea School 4. receptionist (fulltime): ministry of education, nikao Applications close on Friday 14 February 2014. Job Descriptions available from the Ministry or at: www. education.gov.ck Please submit a cover letter with Curriculum Vitae and references to: Director hrm Division P. O. Box 97 rarotonga cook Islands Ph (682) 29357, fax (682) 28357 or email: vacancy@ education.gov.ck 76740

Advertising assistant cook Islands news has a full-time position available to assist our Sales and Marketing Manager at the daily newspaper. you will be working with our Sales & marketing Manager and assisting with the newspaper’s regular clients & daily advertising requirements. Supporting with all advertising promotions and features, maintaining our client database, along with general oice duties that go with selling and booking advertising. You will be expected to work well in a team situation, be well presented and organised, and a have a positive attitude. remuneration will be based on your experience. Applications with resume and references should be sent to tony@cookislandsnews.com or lizw@cookislandsnews.com

Manage the Finance and Administrative duties of the Authority, meeting mfem inancial reporting requirements, and the administering of correspondence and marketing materials. For more details on the position, please email jdavis@ fsda.gov.ck This may be a Part-Time or Full-Time position depending on the skills of the successful candidate. conidential applications should be made in writing and include a CV and sent by email to jdavis@fsda.gov.ck Applications close Friday 14 February 2014. 76700

Applications are invited from qualiied, motivated and experienced professionals for the following curriculum advisory and administration positions: 1) Director of Planning and Development responsible for supporting the development of mid-term and annual business planning, policy development, school reviews, compliance and annual reporting. 2) Planning and Policy Oicer Policy review, research and development, including consultation with stakeholders. 3) Learning and Teaching Curriculum Advisors (2 positions) Provide advice on current pedagogical practice aimed at improving student achievement preferable at the secondary level, state major and supporting subject areas. An application pack is available from the Ministry website at: www.education.gov.ck Please send completed application forms with CV and references to: Director - human resources management Ministry of education P O Box 97 rarotonga cook Islands Ph (682) 29357, fax (682) 28357 or email vacancy@ education.gov.ck Applications close on Friday 14 February 2014. 76728

Overseas advertising We can place your message in newspapers around the world. We will get quotes for classiied advertisementsandpre-billing. Contactouradvertisingdepartmentphone22999email:adverts@cookislandsnews.com

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

BEREAVEMENT

Animal shelter built for stray dogs A NeW animal shelter is to be

The oicers and ire ighters of the Puaikura Volunteer Fire Brigade wish to advise after a long battle with illness the passing away peacefully of Rex Cooper yesterday after noon 4 February at his home in Russell the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Rex was the instigator of the information of this brigade 11 years ago and has been a very strong supporter with annual visits and tireless canvassing around NZ brigades for equipment for us. He will be sadly missed by us and many others he got to know here on Rarotonga. Rex is receiving full Fire Brigade Funeral by the Russell Volunteer Fire Brigade at 2pm, Saturday 8 February in Russell Bay of Islands, New Zealand. a Brigade service will be here on Rarotonga at a later date. Barry Hill Chief Fire Oicer, PVFB. 76773 /36257 /1931

FOR FREE Kia Orana Mama Mata’s FREE Cook Islands language class, Change of venue due to amount of space. Opposite Vonnias West shop in arorangi at the Ministry of infrastructure Cook Islands. (Orange and grey wall). Starts at 6.30pm, Phone 27156. You are Welcome. E noo ra, Mama Mata. 76758 /36249 /1931

opened in Vaimaanga, in a bid to solve reported dog problems on Rarotonga. The Cook Islands Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Animals (CISPCA) has constructed the shelter, which is not yet in operation but is intended for use as a pound in the future. The building, which was funded through sales at the SPCA shop and other fundraisers, includes caretaker’s quarters and is complete except for some inishing touches. CISPCA president Sharon Reichardt said the organisation was approached by Cook Islands Tourism to discuss the possibility of setting up the pound at the Vaimaanga site – with stray dogs being a key concern for tourism following complaints by visitors. “The concept of the pound is to have a ranger bring wandering dogs in,” said Reichardt, who added that dogs needing medical attention or who are not de-sexed will then be taken to the esther honey Foundation. “They would then be returned to us for rehoming or to their original owners.” The esther honey Foundation uses a “capture, neuter and return” system, where stray dogs are returned to where they were found after they have been de-sexed. The foundation has said this method is recom-

mended by the World health organisation because if a stray dog is not returned, another will take its place in that territory. however, Reichardt said CISPCA is concerned that, currently, some stray dogs are being shot by police in an effort to control the dog population. She said an animal shelter is an alternative to this. “There has been comment made that a pound will not work. The only solution that is readily available at the moment is the shooting and clean-up of dogs. Some innocent family pets have been caught in this crossire. “Any dog that does come through the pound and has to be destroyed will be done so in a humane way of euthanasia,” she said. Dogs that are healthy will be stay at the pound until a home is found for them, she said. “These dogs, once de-sexed, will not be released to become feral and public nuisances and a danger.” She said the pound is not yet ready to open but she hopes the animal shelter can eventually assist esther honey in its work – creating a place for stray dogs that esther honey may not have space to accommodate. “We chose to work under the radar so to speak, as we knew the job ahead of us was ambitious to say the least and things need to be put into place before we

can be functional to the public purpose we intend,” she said. “This project is on the table and discussed for further development this year, as a pound or

some care facility to take homeless animals is well overdue. The esther honey Foundation is a vet service and does not have the facilities or space to do this.

“The Vaimaanga spot is ideal. It is the job of any SPCA worldwide to provide shelter for unwanted or abused animals.” - Briar Douglas

Previously an overgrown area, the CisPCa has now built a hut to eventually serve as caretaker’s quarters and an animal shelter at Vaimaanga. 14020401/02/03

SITUATIONS VACANT

BIRThDAy

Finance Oicer – Cook Islands As the Finance Oicer you will support and work closely with the Finance Manager, Westpac Cook Islands to ensure the administration of the Westpac business is streamlined and eicient. Your role is responsible for accounts payable including liaising with suppliers for conirmations and updates on balances. Additionally you will prepare and analyze various inancial reports. You have core personal principles that see you behave as a dynamic, focused and disciplined professional. Your ‘can do’ attitude allows you to be nimble yet operate with a sense of accuracy and urgency in all that you do.

Knowledge and Experience:

ful day. We hope you have a wonder love You Always rick, Caroline, Moana, pauline, Fred gabrielle & Winton Jr.

•

Evidence of being a strongly organized and structured person, with a ‘can do’ attitude to all activities and challenges

•

strong Oice Administration experience

•

proven skills in written and verbal communication

•

Exemplary technology skills using applications related to the Administration Function of a business.

•

proven track record in contributing to business performance through operational eiciency.

•

Ideally you will be tertiary qualiied with a relevant Accounting Degree.

Tell us why you think you are the right person for this job by submitting your written application along with your CV, by 10 February 2014, to: Nick Rous, Finance Manager, Westpac Cook Islands, Email: nickrous@ westpac.com.au or deliver to Westpac Branch, Avarua. 69221

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

FLiGhT FROM ARRiVES ThuRSDAy FEBrUArY 6 NZ748/749 aKL 12.30aM NZ46/745 aKL 4.10PM VT35/36 PPT 2.50PM FRIDAy FEBrUArY 7 Va163/162 aKL 11.55PM NZ46/61 aKL 1.55PM

DEPARTS

aKL aKL PPT

1.30aM 5.25PM 3.50PM

aKL SYD

1.05aM 3.05PM

Air Rarotonga

International Flights

Flight Times | Voyage details RARO TO ARR DEP WEDNESDAy FEBrUArY 5 0800 aITUTaKI 0850 0910

ARR

RaRO

1000

1030

1120

1140

RaRO

1230

1530 aITUTaKI 1620 0900 MaNGaIa 0940 1100 ATIU 1145

1640 1000 1205

RaRO RaRO aITUTaKI

1730 1040 1250

1410

RaRO

1500

1300

aITUTaKI

MaUKE

1350

1410

MITIaRO 1500

DEP

ARR

TIaRE MOaNa 20 - ETD aUCK 04/02, ETa RaRO 15/02, ETa aITUTaKI 17/02 OLOMaNa 23 - ETD aUCK 15/02, ETa RaRO 23/02, ETa aITUTaKI 26/02

Shipping TIaRE MOaNa 21 - ETD aUCK 24/02, ETa RaRO 07/03, ETa aITUTaKI 09/03

1310 ATIU

1355

1520 RaRO 1610

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Crossword

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Place the numbers 1 to 9 in the blank squares so that no digit is repeated in each row, each column or each 3 x 3 square.

Answer to Tuesday’s puzzle

hÄgAR the horrible

Answer to Tuesday’s puzzle

By Dik Browne

ThE phANTOM

By lee Falk & sy Barry

DOMEsTIC VIOlENCE

Is NEVER OK A COOK ISlANDS NEWS PUBlIC SERvICE MESSAgE

gET hElp.

Weather Forecast to Midnight

Tides

Issued at 2pm at Rarotonga Situation: A southerly wind low prevails over Southern Cooks. Meanwhile, a weak trough lies over the group. A weak trough of low pressure lies slow moving over Northern Cooks. Forecast to midnight for the Southern Cooks: A southerly wind low prevails over Southern cooks. Meanwhile, a weak trough lies over the group. A weak trough of low pressure lies slow moving over Northern Cooks. Further outlook: Fine apart from brief showers. For Rarotonga: Fine apart from brief showers. Further outlook: Fine apart from brief showers. For the Northern Cooks: Cloudy periods with brief showers.Moderate northeast winds. Moderate seas. Further outlook: Cloudy periods with some showers

Wed high 1.33Am 1.00m 1.59Pm 1.03m

Low

7.47Am 0.30m

8.15Pm

Thu

1.8m S

0.30m

0.5m NW N

Thu high 2.19Am 0.94m 2.44Pm 0.99m

Low 8.31Am 0.34m 9.02Pm 0.35m

28°

Sun, Moon & Arapo

e 12kts new Moon Feb 28 10.00PM

First Quarter Feb 6 9.22AM

Full Moon Feb 14 1.53PM

Sunshine hours

Third Quarter Feb 22 7.16AM

ArApo - roto AmiAmA wed 5 Tanu (Planting) Kua akaipoipo te rakau. Pollinate.

1.8m S

TauTai (Fishing) Marie te marama. Kua teitei. Po ika. Moon is slow, up high. Fish nights.

humidity Wed

Rarotonga Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Forecast Map 2pm Wednesday

Front Key:

Cold

Warm

Occluded

1.8m S

Swell direction and size

Stationary

Outer Islands Weather Outlook Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Morning

74%

night

86%

Morning

68%

night

73%

Forecast thanks to Cook Islands Meteorological Service.

Wed sun rise 6.24Am sun set 7.22Pm

Moon rise 12.15Pm Moon set 11.52Pm

Thu sun rise 6.25Am sun set 7.21Pm

Moon rise 1.09Pm Moon set

Aitutaki

28° e 12kts

Mangaia

27° e 10kts

Mitiaro

28° e 12kts

Atiu

Penrhyn

28° e 12kts

30 N 08kts

Mauke

28° e 12kts

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 cook Islands News

tarekareka

SPoRT

Eels outscore Panthers at home eels 24 vs Panthers 20 RUGBY league supporters and players from clubs across Rarotonga were treated to a physical and intense game on monday when the Avatiu eels and defending champions the Tupapa Panthers squared off in their premier men’s catch up game. For the players and club officials watching on – it was a great opportunity to scope out arguably the top two club sides to plan their own game plans when they meet the two giants. For the two clubs battling – not only was a irst-up win for the season foremost in their mind, but also the added incentive of prize money in the newly introduced Navy epati Cup challenge. It was the Eels that drew irst blood but the Panthers were always on their tails with the game intensely battled out at Victoria Park. Both sides showed they were taking the new season seriously and while lack of itness is something to be expected at this early stage of the season – both sides held their own and were matched in error rates as well as magic moments. The bruising encounter kept supporters on both sides on the

edge of their seats with the eels leading the way from start to end with the Panthers coming within two points at various stages of the game. In the end it was the bruising charges and determined defence of the eels that got them over the line and over the Panthers to secure their irst win of the season 24-20. It also sees the side progress to challenge two of the new Navy epati Cup. The Panthers will no doubt pull their unit tighter as they prepare to take on the Takuvaine Warriors who were unlucky to miss out on a win against the Bulldogs last Saturday. The eels on the other hand will head home this weekend and take on the visiting Ngatangiia Sea eagles who suffered at the hand of the Arorangi Bears at the weekend. The Bears premier men’s grade will take a break this weekend with the remaining grades to take on the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs premier men’s grade will lace up to take on the visiting Aitutaki Sharks team this Friday at the Titikaveka ield. - Matariki Wilson

Kete Winchester of the Eels drives through Panthers defenders to get his team into a try scoring position at Victoria Park.

14020417

Rugby league all week RUGBY league matches will continue to be played through the week with catch up games scheduled for today and game two of the new season kicking off at Thursday. The catch up game between the Avatiu eels under 19 team and the Tupapa Panthers is sure to be an exciting encounter of youth rugby league and this match will be played today at the Tupapa ield kicking off at 5pm. A second under 19 match will also be played today between the Titikaveka Bulldogs and the Arorangi Bears kicking off at 5pm at the Titikaveka ield. This match kicks off game two of the season which continues on Thursday with the under 14 grade match and senior reserve grade game between the Bulldogs and Bears at Titikaveka. Friday will see the irst outing of the season for the outer island Aitutaki

Sharks who will lace up their boots to take on the Titikaveka Bulldogs in the premier grade. This match will be played at the Titikaveka ield at 5.15pm – after the under 16 match at 4.14pm. At the weekend the Avatiu eels are set to take on the Ngatangiia Sea eagles at ‘the swamp’ while Takuvaine Warriors and Tupapa Panthers will go head to head at the Happy Valley ield. - Matariki Wilson Wednesday February 5 (catch up games) Avatiu Eels vs Tupapa Panthers at Tupapa – 5pm-Under 19, Ref-Bishop Bishop, Touches JudgesPio mitchell/Johnny hosking. Wednesday February 5 (game two) Titikaveka Bulldogs vs Arorangi Bears at Titikaveka – 5pmUnder 19, Ref-Tutai Taurarii, Touches Judges-Nga Takaiti/Dawn Crummer. Thursday February 6 Titikaveka Bulldogs vs Arorangi Bears at Titikaveka – 4.15pm-Under 14, Ref-Paul Peyroux, Touches Judges-Dawn Crummer/Arthur emile, 5.15pm-Snr Re-

serve, Ref-Nga Takaiti, Touches Judges-Paul Peyroux / Arthur emile. Friday February 7 Titikaveka Bulldogs vs Aitutaki Sharks at Titikaveka – 4.15pm-Under 16, Ref-Arthur emile, Touches Judges-Simiona Teiotu/Tutai Taurarii, 5.15pm-Premier, RefTuaitu Ngaputa, Touches Judges-Arthur Emile/Tutai Taurarii (Sub Oficial-Simiona Teiotu). Saturday February 8 Avatiu Nikao Eels vs Ngatangiia Sea Eagles at Avatiu – 2.30pm-Snr Reserve, Ref-Tuaitu Ngaputa, Touch JudgesPaul Peyroux/Tutai Taurarii, 4pm-Premier, Ref-Simiona Teiotu, Touch Judges-Tuaitu Ngaputa/Tutai Taurarii (Sub official-Pio mitchell). Saturday February 8 Takuvaine Warriors vs Tupapa Panthers Takuvaine – 1.10pm-Under 19, Ref-Ngavavia Tou, Touch Judges-Dawn Crummer/Poto Ngaroi, 2.10pm-Snr Reserve, Ref-Nga Takaiti, Touch Judges-Tangi Taomia/Johnny hosking, 4pm-Premier, Ref-Arthur emile, Touch Judges-Bishop Bishop / Ngavavia Tou (Sub official-Tua Duyer).

Bruce Goldsworthy of the eels executes a copy book tackle on his Panthers opponent. 14020430

Centre of excellence for nurturing football talent NURTURING the country’s future

national football representatives is all part of the on-going elite program at the Centre of excellence by the Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) technical department. The technical department have selected the top under 16 boys from around Rarotonga and the outer islands who took part in the recent main football season on their respective islands to form the third intake of players at the centre. The centre has been designed by CIFA as a way of developing and maintaining players who have shown potential in

football and who could go on to become national representatives. The irst session of the programme kick started on monday with players attending their irst training. The players will attend trainings three times a week and will receive more specialised training than what they have been exposed to at club level – giving them their irst taste of representative or elite level football training sessions. “Producing outstanding players needs to be nurtured and coached at a highest level,” says technical director Tuka Tisam. The Centre of excellence in previous

years has seen many players who have come through the programme and have represented the country in the under 17 and national side. The Centre of excellence will continue for the rest of the year in preparation for the oFC under 17 Championship for 2015. The Aitutaki Island Football Association (AIFA) also have a similar programme set up at their new education Centre in Vaipae where they have gathered around 10 under 17 boys and seven under 17 girls who are interested in this year’s academy programme. - CIFA Media

The Rarotonga based players gathered for their irst elite training session on Monday at the CiFa complex in Matavera. 14020412