“In our busy lives, it is rare for us to have time to reflect on work and our collective achievements, but it does not go unnoticed,” says Debbie Sorensen along with close colleagues Mr. Tearikivao (Kiki) Maoate and Mr Simione Lolohea who were honoured to accept the Royal Order of the Crown of Tonga Commander award from His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga, at an investiture ceremony leading up to the July 4 coronation in Tonga.

The awards ceremony was part of a week of celebrations to mark the coronation of the Pacific nation’s monarch, His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga who hosted the ceremony at the Royal Palace for about 20 recipients and their guests.

The medals are a way to recognise the great work and also a reminder of the tremendous spirit of service by the recipients who have made important contributions to the people of Tonga.

Pivitol to the ceremony are the trio from New Zealand whose greatest assets are their extensive training in the health sector, experience and genuine love of their profession.

It is a signifi cant achievement for a medal to be awarded to a non-Tongan and for Tongans in New Zealand to be recognised. The trio were specifi cally honoured in recognition of their outstanding service.

• Mrs Debbie Sorensen whose family originate from Leimatua, Chief Executive Offi cer of Pasifi ka Medical Association and Pasifi ka Futures Limited, a Pasifi ka commissioning agency for Whanau Ora, Director of Health Specialists Ltd.

• Paediatric Surgeon, Urologist and Cook Island-born New Zealand doctor, Mr Kiki Maoate FRACS, ONZM.

• Colorectal surgeon and Tongan-born Mr Simione Lolohea FRACS.

“It was truly wonderful to be recognised and share this honour with fellow collegues Mr Maoate and Mr Lolohea,” says Mrs Sorensen.

Mrs Sorensen received a phone call a week before the ceremony to inform her she was going to receive a medal. However, the news had to remain a surprise for the rest of the Tongan community, to be revealed at the award ceremony.

“I didn’t tell a soul. I found it quite difficult not to tell my husband.”

“I nearly burst into tears and I keep telling myself, this couldn’t be happening.”

Mrs Sorensen played leading roles in the health reforms of the 1980s and ’90s in New Zealand and the establishment of the Pacifi c health sector. She worked in various projects that address the health challenges facing Pacifi c populations in New Zealand and the Pacifi c region.

This is not the fi rst time Debbie has been recognised for her service.

She has received a number of awards including the Excellence in Leadership Award from South Seas Healthcare Ltd, the Service Award from the Pasifika Medical Association and was highly commended in the 1999 Pacific Business Person of the Year award by the Pacific Island Business Development Trust.

Most recently, in 2011 Debbie was awarded a prestigious ANIVA Health leadership Fellowship which supported her to complete an Executive leadership programme at Harvard University.

She has held many high profi le roles in Pacifi c health including working as an advisor to Prime Ministers, Deputy Prime Ministers and Health Ministers throughout the Pacifi c region.

She has worked in Tonga over the past 15 years delivering the New Zealand Medical Treatment scheme, supporting the development of the Tonga Child Cancer Association and advising Ministers of Health.

“I have been very privileged to be able to serve the Government and people of Tonga over many years. As the birthplace of my father and home to my extended family, the country and people call to my heart. I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to serve and will continue as long as I am able.”

“This is a special honour which I have accepted that recognises all the people that supported my work and services to the Tongan people and Pacific communities in New Zealand.”

Receiving the award was also a massive achievement for Mr Maoate, who is a strong advocate for Pacifi c health in New Zealand and across the Pacific.

“We are privileged to be part of the ceremony and our work will continue to serve and inspire the people of Tonga at home and here in New Zealand.”

“As a Cook Islander, I feel honoured to receive the Royal Order of the Crown Commander.

I would like therefore to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to His Majesty and the people of Tonga for honouring me in such an extraordinary way,” said Mr Maoate.

Last year, Mr Moate was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for his dedication and commitment to Pacifi c health. He is a Fellow of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and is the Clinical Director of the Pacifi c Island Program.

He is the Associate Dean of Pacific Health in the University of Otago based in Christchurch.

He was instrumental in the establishment of Pacifi c Trust Canterbury and has provided strategic leadership in the development and formation of the South Island Provider collective.

But it doesn’t stop there. Mr Maoate is also the President of the Pasifi ka Medical Association, a member and strong supporter of the Pacifi c Island Surgeons Association, and is the Chair for the Minister of Pacifi c Island Affairs Ministerial Advisory Committee. He has served on numerous boards and committees including the University of Canterbury Council and the New Zealand and Pacific Health Research Councils.

Mr Maoate is the current Clinical Director for Health Specialists Ltd working with the New Zealand Aid Program and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australia.

Mr Lolohea, receiving the award came as no surprise. He is a well-respected leader in the Tongan community and Pacifi c health sector in New Zealand and the region.

Mr Lolohea, said he was humbled to have been recognised for his services to the people of Tonga.

“It’s nice to be recognised in my area of specialty to improve the lives of those who are less fortunate.”

“I'm saying ‘thank you very very much.

This is a great honour and I accept it on behalf of those who have worked in the sector with me for years and also for our Pasifi ka Medical Association champions who really do the hard yards. It's an acknowledgment to them.”

The Royal Order of the Crown of Tonga (Fakalangilangi ‘o Kalauni ‘o Tonga) is an Order of Merit awarded for exceptional services to Tonga the Crown. The Royal Order of the Crown of Tonga was established in 1913 by King George Tupou II.

The ceremony was attended by many from the royal family, religious leaders, diplomats, and parliamentary fi gures.

Bluesky celebrated a major breakthrough both in Samoa and New Zealand last night.

The celebrations were to mark the company’s launch as Spark's second prepay Mobile Virtual Network Operator (M.V.N.O) in New Zealand, with competitive prepay mobile cellular plans to serve the Samoan community in New Zealand.

"This is an exciting time for Bluesky and it's about connecting our Pacific people,” said Bluesky Pacific Group C.E.O, Aoe'e Adolfo Montenegro.

“We are a growing Pacific operator, and we want to be the preferred network for Pacific people globally."

Bluesky has been looking for some time at how to best service the communication needs of Samoans in New Zealand.

Following on from extensive research with the New Zealand Samoan community, Bluesky has developed a range of plans tailored specifically for them that include competitive rates within NZ and to Samoa.

All plans are prepay, rather than contract, with customers having the option of topping up online on the Bluesky website for New Zealand (www.blueskynz.co.nz) and at convenience stores.

In line with Bluesky's deep commitment to serving local communities, it is also partnering with Samoan churches to support their fundraising initiatives.

Tole’afoa Douglas Creevey, Director and New Zealand Country Manager for Bluesky, commented that market research confirmed the majority of New Zealand-based Samoans already recognize and relate to the Bluesky brand.

And with most Samoans calling their friends and family back home at least once a month, they want a service that allows them to do this in a more affordable and convenient way.

As a Spark prepay M.V.N.O, Bluesky customers will enjoy the reliability and coverage of Spark's nationwide network.

Bluesky will have coverage in over 97per cent of places where Kiwis live and work and have access to Spark's super fast 4G network.

Lindsay Cowley, Spark’s General Manager Product Wholesale and International has welcomed the partnership, saying it highlights Spark New Zealand's commitment to the Pacific.

"Spark New Zealand's size and scale, our industry knowledge and our deep-rooted connections to the Pacific put us in the perfect place to help propel innovative new services like Bluesky forward,” she said.

“We have a tried and true M.V.N.O platform and they have a unique new approach to service the needs of a market segment - it's a great combination."

To join Bluesky in New Zealand, customers will need a Bluesky SIM card. They will have the option of a new "0204" Bluesky number or transferring over their existing local New Zealand number. Bluesky will also offer a range of affordable device options, however customers can use any unlocked mobile phone compatible with Spark's network.

Bluesky is a leading Pacific regional telecommunications operator providing mobile, broadband, TV and landline services in American Samoa, Samoa and the Cook Islands.

A prominent lawyer has left the country after being declared bankrupt, leaving families he represented in Court with debts amounting to thousands of tala.

Tole’afoa Solomona Toa’iloa was declared bankrupt last year and had apparently left for New Zealand without the knowledge of his clients.

Now, one of the families Tole’afoa represented in Court for a land dispute is being asked to pay up to $50,000 worth of legal fees.

It was not possible to obtain a comment from Tole’afoa.

Questions sent to an email address provided by the Official Assignee, Oloipola Terrence Betham, several weeks ago have not been responded to.

But a family member, who approached the Samoa Observer, on the condition of anonymity, said they are desperate for help.

She said their Court case was unsuccessful.

“We have been asked to pay up otherwise it’s a contempt of Court,” said the woman. “He represented us in Court and when we tried to contact him and look for him we found he had left the country.

“We are extremely disappointed.

This is not right and he has deceived my family.”

During an interview with Oloipola, he said Tole’afoa was in New Zealand and he is out Samoa’s jurisdiction.

“I’ve tried to contact him on email but there has been no response,” said Oloipola. “I’ve also advised the New Zealand High Commission of his status of bankruptcy and there is nothing I can do about it now.

“The current situation as I’ve explained is out of our legal jurisdiction, he left without us knowing.”

According to Oloipola, a person is declared bankrupt when his liabilities exceed his assets. He said the situation means the person doesn’t have money to pay off his creditors.

“The family that has complained (to the Samoa Observer) is just one of the many,” he added.

“It’s a matter between them and their lawyer and I feel for them.

“But the question is where can he get the money to pay them back? They can only get it from Tole’afoa whose liabilities exceed his assets.”

Oloipola said the situation should be a lesson for everyone.

“If you deal with a lawyer, you make sure you deal with a lawyer that is honest,” he said. “Sometimes it’s not your fault they appear to be very honest people but it turns out they are not. Even if he was here, he has no assets.”

Below is the letter from Oloipola to the N.Z. High Commissioner, C.E.O of Ministry of the Prime Minister, Registrar of the Court and copied to Tole’afoa.

Samoa’s annual Literacy Week commenced yesterday, promoting the interdependent relationship of reading and opportunity through the 2015 theme: read to succeed.

The opening of the annual affair saw schools marching with banners towards the Government building from the Fire Station, with several assorted activities, reading competitions and performances taking place.

Created in 2014, the weeklong event was formed through the partnership of the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (M.E.S.C) and Samoa Stationery and Books (S.S.A.B) to foster greater improvements for literacy in both Samoan and English.

Leota Valma Galuvao, Assistant Chief Executive Officer and Head of the Curriculum, Materials and Assessment Division at M.E.S.C, said the national event had already spurred positive approaches for students and families towards reading and comprehension despite only being in its second year.

“In terms of results, I’m positive we will be able to see significant improvements over the next 3-4 years,” she said.

“But what we’re noticing this year is a large change in terms of attitudes of the children. We’ve seen a lot more exciting responses from the schools out in all the zones and we’ve had a lot more parents come in and participate with teachers and students.”

In addressing students yesterday, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi echoed the importance for students and families to be united in their commitment to improving literacy and comprehension.

“Today, I urge each and everyone – parents, teachers, members of parliament, leaders, ministers and business owners, including those who are at home- please read to your children,” he said.

 “As the theme of the national literacy week reminds us, reading paves the way to success… [and] opens the doors to opportunities for our children.”

Reiterating the relationship between achievement and reading, Tiatai Salefao, a teacher at Lepa Lotofaga College, was both proud and hopeful for her students who will be participating in the Zone 1 impromptu speech and writing competition for 13 and 14 year olds.

“Reading is of the upmost importance to them,” she said.

“Strength in the mind is much more important than strength of the body. Unlike the body, the strength of the mind can lead you to greater success.” Asked if Samoa’s national literacy rate was better than some of our Pacific neighbors, Ms. Galuvao expressed that despite being ahead of most nations, she would like to see Samoan students sitting below the ten per cent ‘at risk’ margin of reading and numeracy.

“In year four and year six, we run diagnostic tests to see where students are at. Last year, there were more than 20 per cent of students who sat year four that were categorized as ‘at risk’,” she said.

“And in year six, more than 30 per cent of the total population of students who sat year six were at risk also. When I say ‘at risk’, I am talking about students who sat the reading test but did not pass.”

In a bid to improve these statistics, Ms. Galuvao believes that students must be given literature that is more contextualized.
“This is where the need is. We need to flood our schools with books and with stories that are familiar to them- that are from their environment and from their surroundings,” she said.

“We have been blessed with a lot of books from New Zealand, but this presents a challenge for us. We need stories in our own language [in order to] bring out that love in [the students] for reading.”

The literacy week events continue today, with wall collages and banners being displayed and judged at the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture at 9am.

A prominent lawyer has left the country after being declared bankrupt, leaving families he represented in Court with debts amounting to thousands of tala.

Tole’afoa Solomona Toa’iloa was declared bankrupt last year and had apparently left for New Zealand without the knowledge of his clients.

Now, one of the families Tole’afoa represented in Court for a land dispute is being asked to pay up to $50,000 worth of legal fees.

It was not possible to obtain a comment from Tole’afoa.

Questions sent to an email address provided by the Official Assignee, Oloipola Terrence Betham, several weeks ago have not been responded to.

But a family member, who approached the Samoa Observer, on the condition of anonymity, said they are desperate for help.

She said their Court case was unsuccessful.

“We have been asked to pay up otherwise it’s a contempt of Court,” said the woman. “He represented us in Court and when we tried to contact him and look for him we found he had left the country.

“We are extremely disappointed.

This is not right and he has deceived my family.”

During an interview with Oloipola, he said Tole’afoa was in New Zealand and he is out Samoa’s jurisdiction.

“I’ve tried to contact him on email but there has been no response,” said Oloipola. “I’ve also advised the New Zealand High Commission of his status of bankruptcy and there is nothing I can do about it now.

“The current situation as I’ve explained is out of our legal jurisdiction, he left without us knowing.”

According to Oloipola, a person is declared bankrupt when his liabilities exceed his assets. He said the situation means the person doesn’t have money to pay off his creditors.

“The family that has complained (to the Samoa Observer) is just one of the many,” he added.

“It’s a matter between them and their lawyer and I feel for them.

“But the question is where can he get the money to pay them back? They can only get it from Tole’afoa whose liabilities exceed his assets.”

Oloipola said the situation should be a lesson for everyone.

“If you deal with a lawyer, you make sure you deal with a lawyer that is honest,” he said. “Sometimes it’s not your fault they appear to be very honest people but it turns out they are not. Even if he was here, he has no assets.”

Below is the letter from Oloipola to the N.Z. High Commissioner, C.E.O of Ministry of the Prime Minister, Registrar of the Court and copied to Tole’afoa.

The Electric Power Corporation’s Project Manager, Perelini Fonoti Perelini, has defended the government’s decision to make 62 employees of the Corporation redundant.

He has also revealed that more jobs could be on the line as part of what he referred to as “right sizing” the Corporation.

According to him Perelini, the redundancy will save the Corporation $900,000 on the payroll.

Fonoti revealed the figure during a stakeholder consultation on E.P.C's proposed multi-year tariff held at the Millennia Hotel.

During the E.P.C’s presentation, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, who had seen an advertisement by E.P.C. tendering 15 new vehicles, posed a question.

“I saw in the paper that ad tendering for new vehicles,” he said. “So if you get 15 new vehicles [at] $100,000 per vehicle, [that’s] $1.5 million injected into replacing the 62 people that you already laid off.

“My question is, will you get away with 15 vehicles and ... all the vehicles probably sitting at the yard now?”

Perelini assured no one wanted to buy new vehicles. However, some of the vehicles the Corporation has are more than 10 years old and they cost more to maintain.

“They’re going through the fleet now and they will replace what they can.”

He said that E.P.C. is restructuring at present and are doing many things.

“One of them is downsizing or is it more like right sizing E.P.C. in terms of the number of employees,” he said.

Where there were 400 employees, there are now 357 employees.

“I know there were redundancy packages paid to them so there is a net saving on E.P.C., by going forward, you have $900,000 you don’t need to spend on payroll.”

In response to another question on whether the user charge can increase every three years instead of annually, Perelini said that the user charge includes payroll costs, materials and engine costs.

E.P.C. has no control over the latter as it is bought from outside.

What they can control is some of the local costs such as the payroll.

“Normally E.P.C.’s payroll is about $12 million... From a $125million operation, 12 percent or less... I thought is pretty good.”

“We laid off 62 people two days ago, that’s 900,000 in savings so E.P.C. is looking at reducing that cost, because these are costs that are within your control.”

Another major cost for E.P.C is insurance which is $800,000. This is to protect against natural disasters.

Perelini said that the depreciation is not recovered in the tariff.

“Unfortunately laying people off is not a very good thing to do but they had to bite the bullet and do these things in order to continue to lower the costs,” he said.

“EPC is also evaluating about... further downsizing, by outsourcing some of things they do.”

These involve powerlines, digging holes, pulling wires, putting up wires, trimming trees away from powerlines and running power stations. This would impact the operations side of E.P.C. and the number of mechanics and whether it would be cheaper to outsource.

Perelini stressed that it was all about lowering costs.

Earlier this week, employees that were made redundant were in tears and spoke of their struggles, frustrations and disappointment.

They spoke out as they exited the workplace they have served faithfully for many years with tears and sadness.

More than sixty men and women who were linesmen, drivers, cashiers, clearance officers and fault service workers received their redundancy packages during a meeting with E.P.C’s management.

While some were happy with amounts of $3,000 and $5000 each, the majority shrugged their shoulders and kept their heads low when they left the meeting.

For 14-year-old boy Sam, shining tyres and asking for a tala or two is his daily job.

It’s not something he likes but he has no choice.

"I am doing this not because it is something I decided to do in life but to help my mother in providing for my family,” he told the Samoa Observer. Sam is from Aele. He did not want to reveal his employer’s name.

“What is the point of going back to school when your family is poor? I think it’s a waste of time.”

Sam said he had the option to go to school. But he decided against it because he could not stand how poor his family is.

“So when I finished my Year 8 last year, I started looking for a job,” he said.

“My mother told me to find a job so that I can provide for them (parents) and my four youngest siblings.”

For Sam, the struggle is his reality.

“Life as a teenage worker to support your family every morning is really hard - I begin as early as seven o’clock every morning until late at night. Sometimes the drivers swear at me… it’s a shame…but that doesn't matter – what matter is to see my family survive and happy.

“My mother had a job somewhere near our village (Aele) but my father...he’s really sick…he’s having a hard time fighting for his life because of chest pains.”

Sam says he still wants to go back to school. “To be honest, I really want to go back to school,” he said.

“I want to do more in life... but...I just don’t know what tomorrow will bring if I continue on this.”

Yesterday, Sam said it was a slow day.

"I am sure that if I don't do this, my family will have no food,” he said.

“It’s really hard to stand here all day. I have to try and be persistent and pushy with people sometimes because otherwise I make no money.

“I try and wash the tyres for some people for free and they yell at me. It hurts but I have no choice, I have a family that needs to eat.”

Sam makes about $20 a day. The money goes to his employer who then pays him at the end of the week.

The Land Transport Authority (L.T.A) has contradicted the Police when it comes to the issue of trucks, their loads and road safety.

After the Police confirmed last week that loads such as the one pictured here are illegal and could land a driver in jail, it has emerged that the L.T.A does not subscribe to the same law book.

In fact, the Authority says this is legal.

In response to an email from the Samoa Observer, L.T.A. Principal Public Relations Officer, Anelisa Auelua explained that “if the tray of the truck is straight it needs a cover.

“But if it’s oval and V shape then there is no need for a cover.”

The photo that accompanied the story from the Police last week was also sent to the L.T.A.

Asked if such a load is legal, the L.T.A’s response was: “Yes it is legal and safe.”

Now, the L.T.A’s position contradicts that of the Police.

When the Samoa Observer followed up with Police Spokesperson, Su’a Muliaga Tiumalu, yesterday, he maintained his position.

“How can they say it's legal when it’s clear cut in the law that it is illegal,” said Su’a.

“That is insecure loading. What happens if those loads topple off the truck and hit the vehicles behind it.?

“I don’t understand what law they are referring to then.”

Su’a also provided a copy of the Road Traffic Ordinance 1960 to prove his point.

Under section 38.b of the Act, Unsafe Vehicles it states that:

“(i) no person shall operate any vehicle in such condition or in such manner or so loaded with a load so unsafe, unsecure, as to cause or be liable to cause, injury to any person.”

A follow up email sent to L.T.A. to clarify their position was not responded to by press time.

Yesterday, another concerned citizen sent in another photo of a truck (above) carrying load of gravel without a cover. Is that legal too?

The Land Transport Authority (L.T.A) has contradicted the Police when it comes to the issue of trucks, their loads and road safety.

After the Police confirmed last week that loads such as the one pictured here are illegal and could land a driver in jail, it has emerged that the L.T.A does not subscribe to the same law book.

In fact, the Authority says this is legal.

In response to an email from the Samoa Observer, L.T.A. Principal Public Relations Officer, Anelisa Auelua explained that “if the tray of the truck is straight it needs a cover.

“But if it’s oval and V shape then there is no need for a cover.”

The photo that accompanied the story from the Police last week was also sent to the L.T.A.

Asked if such a load is legal, the L.T.A’s response was: “Yes it is legal and safe.”

Now, the L.T.A’s position contradicts that of the Police.

When the Samoa Observer followed up with Police Spokesperson, Su’a Muliaga Tiumalu, yesterday, he maintained his position.

“How can they say it's legal when it’s clear cut in the law that it is illegal,” said Su’a.

“That is insecure loading. What happens if those loads topple off the truck and hit the vehicles behind it.?

“I don’t understand what law they are referring to then.”

Su’a also provided a copy of the Road Traffic Ordinance 1960 to prove his point.

Under section 38.b of the Act, Unsafe Vehicles it states that:

“(i) no person shall operate any vehicle in such condition or in such manner or so loaded with a load so unsafe, unsecure, as to cause or be liable to cause, injury to any person.”

A follow up email sent to L.T.A. to clarify their position was not responded to by press time.

Yesterday, another concerned citizen sent in another photo of a truck (above) carrying load of gravel without a cover. Is that legal too?

More than five Mhundreds students of Asau College at Savai’i will no longer have to miss school or brave the elements on the road to get an education.

That’s because the remote school on the big island is now the proud owner of a Chinese bus gifted to them by the government yesterday.

Asau is one of thirteen recipients of buses from the government, presented to them during a special ceremony at Sogi. The buses were gifted to the government to allow Samoa to host the U.N Small Island Developing States conference last year.

In handing over the buses, Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi urged the recipients to look after them and treat them like it’s their own.

The message was not lost on Etepo Poloma, from Asau, who promised that the village would do everything possible to look after the gift.

With a smile on his face, Etepo said the bus is an investment from the government for the future of Asau.

“We only have one College in our constituency where all the children attend,” said Etepo. “Some walk the long distance to get to school while others catch the public bus.”

While the public transportation has somewhat been helpful, Etepo said there are many challenges.

“The problem faced by the students is that if you catch the public bus, you’ll be late for school,” he said.

“If you walk, the kids will have to wake up very early in the morning to make the trip to make sure they make it on time. It’s unsafe.”

Etepo said the bus is the answer to their prayers. He thanked the government for responding to their request positively and helping relieve the pressure off the shoulders of many parents.

The Faleasiu Worship Center Church was also given one of the buses.

Palagi Hanna Taulealo, who accepted the bus on behalf of the church, said they had requested the government for a bus to transport more than 400 church members.

She said the church is attended by villagers from Tufulele, Utuali’i, Sapulu and Fasito’o.

“We have a dyna that transports the church members,” she explained.

“But the bus would be an ideal way of picking up the members so that even if it rains or it’s too hot we can still attend church.”

During his keynote address,Prime Minister Tuilaepa said the government initially had plans to sell the buses following the S.I.D.S conference.

The money from the sale would have been used for other developments.

“However after the meeting (cabinet) we decided it would be given out to organisations especially to schools, churches and those doing charity work.”

Tuilaepa added that that government could never please everyone. He said there would always be criticisms from people who have not received buses.

He also assured that the buses are all in good condition.

If for some reason it breaks down tomorrow, Tuilaepa said that would be the fault of the negligent owner.

Before the buses could be driven away from Sogi yesterday, the owners were given a training of how to operate and look after them.

Lastly, Tuilaepa thanked the Ambassador of China, Li Yuanduan for making the assistance possible during S.I.D.S.

The other recipients of the buses are the Red Cross Society, Malua Theological College, Methodist Church of Samoa, Samoa Primary School, Faleasiu Worship Center, Don Bosco, Falealili School Committee, Ali’i ma Faipule of Tiavea, Samoa Prison and Correctional Services, S.A.S.N.O.C and the National Health Services.

More than five Mhundreds students of Asau College at Savai’i will no longer have to miss school or brave the elements on the road to get an education.

That’s because the remote school on the big island is now the proud owner of a Chinese bus gifted to them by the government yesterday.

Asau is one of thirteen recipients of buses from the government, presented to them during a special ceremony at Sogi. The buses were gifted to the government to allow Samoa to host the U.N Small Island Developing States conference last year.

In handing over the buses, Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi urged the recipients to look after them and treat them like it’s their own.

The message was not lost on Etepo Poloma, from Asau, who promised that the village would do everything possible to look after the gift.

With a smile on his face, Etepo said the bus is an investment from the government for the future of Asau.

“We only have one College in our constituency where all the children attend,” said Etepo. “Some walk the long distance to get to school while others catch the public bus.”

While the public transportation has somewhat been helpful, Etepo said there are many challenges.

“The problem faced by the students is that if you catch the public bus, you’ll be late for school,” he said.

“If you walk, the kids will have to wake up very early in the morning to make the trip to make sure they make it on time. It’s unsafe.”

Etepo said the bus is the answer to their prayers. He thanked the government for responding to their request positively and helping relieve the pressure off the shoulders of many parents.

The Faleasiu Worship Center Church was also given one of the buses.

Palagi Hanna Taulealo, who accepted the bus on behalf of the church, said they had requested the government for a bus to transport more than 400 church members.

She said the church is attended by villagers from Tufulele, Utuali’i, Sapulu and Fasito’o.

“We have a dyna that transports the church members,” she explained.

“But the bus would be an ideal way of picking up the members so that even if it rains or it’s too hot we can still attend church.”

During his keynote address,Prime Minister Tuilaepa said the government initially had plans to sell the buses following the S.I.D.S conference.

The money from the sale would have been used for other developments.

“However after the meeting (cabinet) we decided it would be given out to organisations especially to schools, churches and those doing charity work.”

Tuilaepa added that that government could never please everyone. He said there would always be criticisms from people who have not received buses.

He also assured that the buses are all in good condition.

If for some reason it breaks down tomorrow, Tuilaepa said that would be the fault of the negligent owner.

Before the buses could be driven away from Sogi yesterday, the owners were given a training of how to operate and look after them.

Lastly, Tuilaepa thanked the Ambassador of China, Li Yuanduan for making the assistance possible during S.I.D.S.

The other recipients of the buses are the Red Cross Society, Malua Theological College, Methodist Church of Samoa, Samoa Primary School, Faleasiu Worship Center, Don Bosco, Falealili School Committee, Ali’i ma Faipule of Tiavea, Samoa Prison and Correctional Services, S.A.S.N.O.C and the National Health Services.

English Sevens rugby great, Ben Gollings, Fijian legend, Waisale Serevi and World Rugby hall of famer, Muliagatele Brian Lima are among the high profile applicants for the vacant Manu Samoa Sevens coaching role.

They have been shortlisted by an independent panel for the job, with a new coach set to be announced next week.

Others in the running, the Samoa Observer has been reliably informed, include former coach, Tausa Fa’amaoni Lalomilo and Fepulea’i Selefuti Patu among others.

Interim Chief Executive Officer of the S.R.U, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea’i, told the Samoa Observer that an independent committee has been hired to select the man best suited for the role.

“The final interviews will be held this week on Thursday and Friday,” he said.

“The results from the independent panel will be back early next week and they will go to the board with their findings. “It will be officially announced next week sometime.”

Twenty nine applicants originally applied for the position but Faleomavaega wasn’t able to confirm how many were still in contention as he as given full control to the independent committee. But he did say that former high profile sevens players such as Gollings had applied for the vacancy.

He also said the S.R.U is ready to throw the cash at them if someone of Gollings or Serevi’s ilk is appointed.

“He did, but I’m not aware whether he has been shortlisted,” he said about Gollings. “It all depends who the best candidate will be.

“Whoever is the best candidate the Union will have to look at funding for that sort of calibre. That is why we went all out and advertised the position worldwide.”

Faleomavaega noted that not only would a high profile coach help the Manu Sevens, but the relationship would also be reciprocal.

“Manu Samoa is a very high profile sevens team and winners of the World Series circuit. Every potential or quality sevens coach would like to coach the Manu Samoa team. It would look great on their C.V.”

The successful applicant will be thrown into the hot seat straight away, with Samoa’s’ ambition to qualify for the first ever rugby sevens tournament at the Olympics top of the agenda.

“The upcoming qualification to Rio that will be held in Auckland in November. They will prepare the team for that competition and hopefully the Rio Olympics,” stated Faleomavaega.

The qualifying event won’t be easy though, with teams such as Australia, the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea also competing and eager to get to Rio.

The length of the chosen coaches contract will be discussed behind closed doors after their appointment.

Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea’i is now officially the Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) of the Samoa Rugby Union.

The man who had been acting as the Interim C.E.O, who played a vital role in preparing the country for the biggest test match to be hosted by Samoa, now has the task of taking the Union into the future, with all the challenges that come with the job.

Faleomavaega’s appointment was confirmed last night by the Samoa Rugby Union in a statement.

“The Samoa Rugby Union wishes to announce the appointment of Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea’i as its new C.E.O,” the statement reads.

“Faleomavaega was acting as the Interim C.E.O and was among the 25 applicants for the position which was advertised locally and internationally.”

The Union did not disclose the other candidates. But Faleomavaega was among four candidates shortlisted.

“Faleomavaega was shortlisted and interviewed together with four other outstanding applicants and today the Board of SRU approved the appointment.”

Faleomavaega took over the role from former C.E.O, Fred Amoa.

Since his appointment as interim, he has been instrumental in restoring the faith of the public in the Union after years of controversy involving rugby’s mother body.

During a recent inter view though, Faleomavaega says they have a long way to go.

The focus now, he says, is to up their game and to try and maintain the changes that are happening in moving forward.

Faleomavaega says the S.R.U. is undergoing a lot of changes and reforms in terms of administration.

One of the main issues was with communication. The boys wanted S.R.U. to be upfront. Communication was the number one issue they thought was lacking.

“We’ve always said right from the beginning that our Union is an amateur Union but that doesn’t mean we sit on our laurels. We have to help our game and try and be as professional as we can,” he said.

“With Manu Samoa, most of the team play in a professional environment. They like to see when they come home that the Union is run professionally in terms of how the S.R.U. deals with them and everyone else, including other rugby players, stakeholders and sponsors.”

The good news is that the All Blacks have been to Samoa, the nation enjoyed the party and the Manu Samoa gave them a mighty good run for their money.

The bad news is that in the aftermath, the cash-strapped Samoa Rugby Union (S.R.U) is again staring down the barrel of a $1.5million loss.

The loss was confirmed by the Chairman of S.R.U and Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, during a media conference.

According to the Prime Minister, the historical match cost the Union $3.4million.

“$3.4 million was spent to host the All Blacks,” he said. “The money was spent on preparations, the cost of everything and allowances.

“The bulk of the money went towards the players’ allowances.”

The Union collected $1.9million in revenue.

“So there was a loss of $1.5m but that’s the reality faced by the Union. The truth is that the Union needs at least $10m every year for its international fixtures,” said Tuilaepa.

Asked if the Union received any money from companies who sold Manu Samoa merchandise, Tuilaepa said all that money adds up to $1.9m.

“It doesn't cover our expenses, especially the extended camp for the players. Food, allowances, transport…it’s all money.”

The loss, Tuilaepa said, means the Union will have to find somewhere to plug the hole.

“That’s why the union works hard to raise funds to offset the losses.

Which means they will have to resort to government bodies for help.”

Among those government bodies is the Samoa International Finance Authority, which has been a major sponsor of Samoan rugby for the past few years.

On Thursday, Tuilaepa said the Union hosted its sponsors and supporters.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister said the stakeholders were informed about the Union’s vision and longterm plans.

Boxing

Prime Minister Tuilaepa also scoffed at the national boxing team that represented Samoa at the Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea, last week.

Tuilaepa did not mince words about the team’s poor performance.

“I don’t know the people who are coaching that team,” said Tuilaepa.

“Not only they don’t know how to coach the kids to box, even the athletes are cowards.

“What I saw was an eyesore, I just couldn’t understand how they selected these athletes.”

The Prime Minister suggested that perhaps S.A.S.NO.C. should consider taking another boxing team to the Games.

As for the girl’s cricket team winning gold medal, Tuilaepa was surprised and pleased.

He said locals should focus more on the international cricket rather than wasting their time on the Samoan cricket that won’t get them anywhere.

Speaking about the girl’s cricket team, Tuilaepa said they have more guts than the boys.

He also commended the efforts the weightlifters, power lifters, touch rugby players and all the athletes who won gold medals.

It wasn't a win but it wasn't a loss either. And with that, Manu Samoa’s hopes of securing the Pacific Nations Cup remains intact.

The men in blue came back from a 27-10 deficit to draw their Round 2 match against Fiji, 30-30, at Bonney Field, Sacramento, yesterday.

Despite the disappointment of not being able to secure victory despite the amazing come back, Coach Stephen Betham was positive.

“The boys showed a lot of character today,” he said after the game.

“And we’re happy with the way they stood up. But still we’ve got a lot of work to do as we look to Canada next week.”

Playing in 32 degrees Celcius heat, both teams were looking for the upper hand early but it was Fiji who scored two quick tries both to lock Leone Nakarawa, in the first 15 minutes.

Manu Samoa responded soon after when centre Paul Perez dotted down following quick hands and a great break from Michael Stanley.

Fiji’s pressure in the Samoan half and a couple of key mistackles from Samoa finally rewarded Fiji with a try to fullback Metuisela Talebula who finished off some slick Fijian running and passing to stretch over the line for a five-pointer just before half time.

Samoa came back with a vengeance in the second half, despite Fiji scoring first with midfielder Gabby Lovobalavu making easy work of Samoa’s last defence.

Ten minutes into the second half Samoa were trailing 27-10, but then Samoa regrouped and their patience paid off when they finally managed to get the ball out wide where prop Anthony Perenise was the last receiver who banked the points.

From the kick-off Samoa, earned a series of penalties which resulted in a maul and then Perez, who was in outstanding form, wrong footed several defenders to dot down on the 62nd minute.

With the Fijians now within reach and 15 minutes to play, the Manu’s desperation at the breakdown and solid go forward play, resulted in standout loose forward TJ Ioane scoring a well-deserved try.

Stanley converted to level the scores at 27-apiece.

The tension continued as first Volavola, then replacement first five Patrick Fa’apale, nailed respective penalties in the dying minutes of the game.

“It was definitely the hard way to do it, as Fiji found their rhythm early in that first half,” Betham said.

“It was like last week a game of two halves. The boys had a slow start – a lot of mistakes in the first half and a few loose balls we should have dived on.

“The Fijians are known for their flair and we gave that up in the first half. But credit to the boys they came back in the second half.”

Manu Samoa heads to Toronto, Canada for Round 3 of the Pacific Nations Cup where they will face hosts Canada on Wednesday.

The championship matches will be played in Vancouver the following Monday, 3 August.

MANU SAMOA:

Tries: Paul Perez 2, Anthony Perenise, TJ Ioane Pen: Mike Stanley, Patrick Faapale Con: Stanley 2 FLYING FIJIANS: Tries: Leone Nakarawa 2, Metuisela Talebula, Gaby Lovobalavu Pen: Ben Volavola 2 Con: Volavola 2

He takes a deep puff on half a cigarette.

Asofa, from Vaitele-fou, tells me that he scabbed the cigarette off a stranger on the streets. It’s not the only thing he begs people for.

When he cannot sell them his goods, he asks them for money so he could buy some food and a smoke. For the street vendor, he says smoking helps him ease the pain and shame of begging.

“When I quit school at the age of thirteen, that’s when I started smoking,” he said.

On the streets of Apia, Asofa is among a growing number of young people who have a resorted to a life on the streets selling things to help their families get by. On this day, the items he was selling included perfumes.

“I need to finish selling this stuff so that I could have my pay before night time today, I need to buy some food for my family,” he said.

Asofa should be at school but he is not.

“I didn’t complete my Year 8. I was expelled from school."

"I forgot the reason why. And that’s why I started on the road to sell goods."

“After staying home for three weeks after I was expelled from school, I started to look for a job because I knew my parents wanted me to go and find a job."

Asofa said he comes from a family who has one person who is employed.

As for smoking, he said:

“Smoking eases the pain that I face everyday….whenever I feel hungry I smoke…just like others (street vendors) do."

“It works.”

The 16-year-old walks from Vaitele-Fou to Apia to sell his stuff every morning.

“That is what I do every morning and … it’s very good exercise. Life is expensive nowadays and this is how I contribute to my family."

“I walk the road and do what I do because my family is struggling."

“To me I don’t see anything wrong with me trying to earn a living by selling these perfumes."

Bluesky celebrated a major breakthrough both in Samoa and New Zealand last night.

The celebrations were to mark the company’s launch as Spark's second prepay Mobile Virtual Network Operator (M.V.N.O) in New Zealand, with competitive prepay mobile cellular plans to serve the Samoan community in New Zealand.

"This is an exciting time for Bluesky and it's about connecting our Pacific people,” said Bluesky Pacific Group C.E.O, Aoe'e Adolfo Montenegro.

“We are a growing Pacific operator, and we want to be the preferred network for Pacific people globally."

Bluesky has been looking for some time at how to best service the communication needs of Samoans in New Zealand.

Following on from extensive research with the New Zealand Samoan community, Bluesky has developed a range of plans tailored specifically for them that include competitive rates within NZ and to Samoa.

All plans are prepay, rather than contract, with customers having the option of topping up online on the Bluesky website for New Zealand (www.blueskynz.co.nz) and at convenience stores.

In line with Bluesky's deep commitment to serving local communities, it is also partnering with Samoan churches to support their fundraising initiatives.

Tole’afoa Douglas Creevey, Director and New Zealand Country Manager for Bluesky, commented that market research confirmed the majority of New Zealand-based Samoans already recognize and relate to the Bluesky brand.

And with most Samoans calling their friends and family back home at least once a month, they want a service that allows them to do this in a more affordable and convenient way.

As a Spark prepay M.V.N.O, Bluesky customers will enjoy the reliability and coverage of Spark's nationwide network.

Bluesky will have coverage in over 97per cent of places where Kiwis live and work and have access to Spark's super fast 4G network.

Lindsay Cowley, Spark’s General Manager Product Wholesale and International has welcomed the partnership, saying it highlights Spark New Zealand's commitment to the Pacific.

"Spark New Zealand's size and scale, our industry knowledge and our deep-rooted connections to the Pacific put us in the perfect place to help propel innovative new services like Bluesky forward,” she said.

“We have a tried and true M.V.N.O platform and they have a unique new approach to service the needs of a market segment - it's a great combination."

To join Bluesky in New Zealand, customers will need a Bluesky SIM card. They will have the option of a new "0204" Bluesky number or transferring over their existing local New Zealand number. Bluesky will also offer a range of affordable device options, however customers can use any unlocked mobile phone compatible with Spark's network.

Bluesky is a leading Pacific regional telecommunications operator providing mobile, broadband, TV and landline services in American Samoa, Samoa and the Cook Islands.

He takes a deep puff on half a cigarette.

Asofa, from Vaitele-fou, tells me that he scabbed the cigarette off a stranger on the streets. It’s not the only thing he begs people for.

When he cannot sell them his goods, he asks them for money so he could buy some food and a smoke. For the street vendor, he says smoking helps him ease the pain and shame of begging.

“When I quit school at the age of thirteen, that’s when I started smoking,” he said.

On the streets of Apia, Asofa is among a growing number of young people who have a resorted to a life on the streets selling things to help their families get by. On this day, the items he was selling included perfumes.

“I need to finish selling this stuff so that I could have my pay before night time today, I need to buy some food for my family,” he said.

Asofa should be at school but he is not.

“I didn’t complete my Year 8. I was expelled from school."

"I forgot the reason why. And that’s why I started on the road to sell goods."

“After staying home for three weeks after I was expelled from school, I started to look for a job because I knew my parents wanted me to go and find a job."

Asofa said he comes from a family who has one person who is employed.

As for smoking, he said:

“Smoking eases the pain that I face everyday….whenever I feel hungry I smoke…just like others (street vendors) do."

“It works.”

The 16-year-old walks from Vaitele-Fou to Apia to sell his stuff every morning.

“That is what I do every morning and … it’s very good exercise. Life is expensive nowadays and this is how I contribute to my family."

“I walk the road and do what I do because my family is struggling."

“To me I don’t see anything wrong with me trying to earn a living by selling these perfumes."

The Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Tuisugaletaua Aveau Sofara, has confirmed the arrival of a new telecommunication company.

Although the company has been quietly setting up in town, the Minister stopped short of revealing the company’s name and who is involved.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer yesterday, Tuisugaletaua said the Company has already been given a license to operate.

“The company is owned by Samoans, 80 percent of it and the rest from U.S.A,” said Tuisugaletaua.

“The family has one business already here but this would be a huge one on their portfolio.”

The Minister added that the company is owned “by a woman who is full Samoan and her son who studied in the States and runs a similar business there.”

“They see coming back to Samoa as a way of giving back to the country,” he said.

The company will compete with Digicel and Bluesky.

According to the Minister, the company’s license to operate was issued by the former Regulator, Donnie de Freitas.

Tuisuga said this followed a lengthy due diligence process undertaken by Mr. de Freitas and his Office.

“This was the last project by Donnie before he left,” the Minister said.

“The Regulator had done all that verification and had looked at spectrums on which band they can use so that they won’t interfere with others…they are here.”

Tuisugaletaua said the company is focusing on internet services to start with and will introduce other “products” later on.

“They are very advanced in terms of technology,” he said. “They also have quite a few products on the way but I cannot release those. They also have a very competitive edge.”

Asked how their arrival will benefit Samoa, Tuisugaletaua reminded that competition is healthy.

He said the cost of internet service and access in Samoa remains an issue and he hopes that the bigger the competition, the better it will be for Samoa.

“I’d like to see every family in the rural villages have efficient access to the internet,” the Minister said.

It could not be confirmed when the company will be officially launched.

With the dust settling Won the Bank South Pacific’s takeover of Westpac, the newest business in town is already hard at work to become the banking giant of Samoa.

And a driving force behind the establishment is Maryann Lameko- Vaai, who was named the General Manager last week when the Bank was officially launched at Vailima.

It has been quite a rise for a woman who only three years ago had never worked at a bank.

“I was hired by Westpac in 2012 so I have been with the bank for about three years now,” she tells the Samoa Observer.

“I am a chartered accountant and auditor by profession, so my interest has always been in accounting, finance and investment.

“Prior to moving to the bank, I spent 12 years with a locally-owned computer company called Computer Services Limited, and when the opportunity presented itself to join Westpac; it was time to try something new.”

It didn’t take long for Mrs. Lameko-Vaai’s new career to grow on her, and she hasn’t looked back since.

“Banking became a passion very quickly and I found myself totally immersed and equally inspired by the role that the banking system plays in the economic and social development of our country. I guess you can say I got hooked.”

Mrs. Lameko-Vaai was pleased when Westpac named her as Acting General Manger in the lead up to the takeover, but was surprised when B.S.P later annointed her as their official General Manager.

It’s a ground breaking appointment that’s been long overdue.

“Westpac has never hired a local to be Country Head and when I was seconded to the role of Acting GM by Westpac, I was pleasantly surprised,” she said.

“In the seven months that I was Acting GM during the transition to B.S.P, the team and I worked really hard and we prayed even harder.

“Multinational companies, in particular banks in Samoa are traditionally managed by ex-pats, so this is a remarkable achievement and I’m very humbled by the opportunity.”

Not to take all of the glory herself after being selected in the new role, Mrs. Lameko- Vaai was quick to thank her colleagues, friends and family for helping during the frantic few months leading up to the takeover.

“It’s during challenging and uncertain times that the strength of one’s leadership and staff alike are put to the test. I acknowledge my exceptional staff for their support and hard work at so many levels; their perseverance in the midst of uncertainty has been my strength.

“I’m fortunate to have been surrounded by great role models, who are always pushing me. I’ve made some sacrifices with my family, and the road to getting to where I am today has not been easy and sometimes lonely; but by the grace of God I have been able to realize this dream.”

Asked whether she has been overlooked for promotions in the past because of her gender, Mrs. Lameko-Vaai pointed out that her employers have based decisions on work ethic.

“No I don’t believe so. I think we are quite fortunate in Samoa that women are given equal opportunities in the workplace and the appointment of top officers are always based on merit, not gender.”

So now that it has been out with the old and in with the new, where to now for Samoa’s newest big business?

“My vision is simple - for B.S.P to be the number one bank in Samoa. To be the bank that will help our businesses, communities and people grow.” Look out.