Most of the 80 cases of “pink eye” that have already shown up at hospital have come from Apia, say health authorities, who warn against using home remedies like breast milk or salt water.

Authorities are concerned at the number of cases this early in the year when compared with 200 for the whole of 2013.

They are urging the public to take simple precautions against catching the temporary disease, and not spreading it if they already have conjunctivitis.

“If you have pink eye, you need to stay away from work or school to avoid spreading pink eye”, said Dr. Mau Imo, Head of the National Eye Unit.

“Use tissues to wipe your eyes, avoid using a towel and make sure to wash your hands and rest.”

Dr. Imo was speaking during a press conference to let the public know what needs to be done if they get pink eye. She was joined by the head of the National Surveillance and International Health Registry, Tuliau Dr. Saine Vaai Nielsen.

Dr. Imo advised that general cleanliness is the best way to protect families and everyone from conjunctivitis. The sudden increase in cases caused concern at the Ministry.

“Which is why we have called a press conference to tell the public that the number of cases has increased within just two months.

“We don’t want to alarm the public but we are concerned that the number of cases has increased and that is why we need to enforce the message of cleanliness in our families to avoid pink eye from spreading,” she said.

“We are trying to prevent pink eye from spreading too much and try to control it.”

Dr. Imo stated that popular remedies like breast milk and salt water can cause more problems than they cure.

“A lot of pink eye patients that have come to the hospital now have got puss coming out of their eyes, this is caused by using breast milk,” said Dr. Imo.

“Breast milk and salty water cannot kill the bacteria that’s causing pink eye. That’s why I urged the public to please avoid using breast milk or salty water, because it will make it worst.

“Pink eye will heal on its own after 2-3 weeks, some people will have pink eye for up to four weeks.

“If after four weeks and there is still no change then you need to come to the hospital to get eye drops.”

Dr. Imo also reminded the public that pink eye will cause eyes to be itchy, but to avoid rubbing it.

“I know your eyes will be very itchy, but avoid rubbing it because it will make it even worse, use a warm towel to put on your eyes - that warm towel will help your eyes to cool down.

“Stay home from work and also if your child has pink eye, make them stay home because if he goes to school he will be spreading pink eye through other children.”

Dr. Saine stated that the 80 cases affected by pink eye have not yet been fully analysed, but most of them are from the Apia district area.

Samoana High School choir from American Samoa is in the country for one week to entertain.

They arrived last Saturday and an invitation by C.C.C.S. Fusi Saoluafata yesterday in their morning sermon and they performed some of their spiritual numbers.

Rev. Limua’a Samuelu of Fusi Saoluafata said that this is the first time Samoana High School has been at their church and it was a great opportunity for them to have them around.

“The important thing to myself is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ between our youth and the students of Samoan High School through singing spiritual songs and performing different items.

“Spreading the good news was what really matters to me.”

“This is not the first time that our church hosts a school from American Samoa,” he said.

“We had several others like Leone in years back and I am very happy with it because our youth and the congregation as will benefits from it”

“This will also help them as we can see nowadays how fast life is through new technology but having them together under the roof of the almighty God will help them in their journey through life.”

Leader of the Samoana Choir, Mr Pati Pati was embraced Rev. Samuelu’s comments.

“Yes, I totally believe of sharing the good news through singing,” he said.

“Some of the student’s families were not used to going to church but lifting them up through singing in the choir brightens their path and leads them in the right direction.”

“Visiting different schools will let them see how good schools are in Samoa with discipline and their students because it is totally different with schools in American Samoa.”

He thanked their school principal; Mataese Samuelu, parents and all the students for putting the trip together and for the support of everyone in Samoa.

“Fa’afetai tele lava.”

A seventeen year old girl from Samoana High School, Naomi Matagi, said that she was very excited.

“I can’t wait to perform and share the talents that we all been blessed with - we are not only showing it but sharing it too.”

“It better for cultural diversity that we all work together to promote our culture and build a strong bond because we are all Samoans.”

Samoa High School Programme 17th -21st March 2014 Monday – 8.30am – Pesega College 10.30am – Leififi College 12.30pm – Seventh Day Adventist School Lalovaea Tuesday – 8.30am - Samoa College 10.30am - St Marys Primary 2.00pm – Prime Minister’s Office Wednesday – Wesley College NUS (not yet confirmed) Thursday - Singing the National Anthem in front of the Government Building (awaits approval from Ministry of Police) 11.00am – Head of State

More women than men - over 60 per cent - believe that violence against them by their personal partner is justified.Fauena Susana Laulu has been appointed Chief Executive Officer for the Development Bank of Samoa for the next three years.

In its report The State of the Worlds Children 2013 The United Nations Children Fund (U.N.I.C.E.F.) found that the majority of women rationalise “wife beating”.

U.N.I.C.E.F. defines this justification as “women and men...who consider a husband to be justified in hitting or beating his wife for at least one of the specified reasons on the survey handed out.

“If his wife burns the food, argues with him, goes out without telling him, neglects the children or refuses sexual relations.” Based on this definition the world organisation reports 61 per cent of women in Samoa aged 15-49 years justify familial violence.

This is compared to 46 per cent of men who feel the same way. In addition to this, U.N.I.C.E.F. found that 58 per cent of adolescent girls and 50 per cent of adolescent boys think that “wife beating” is acceptable here in Samoa.

The Ministry of Women and Community and Social Development was contacted, but was not available until next week to answer questions on the issue.

However, in its 2011 Update of Baseline In-country Review Samoa Report, the Pacific Prevention of Domestic Violence Programme (P.P.D.V.P.) provided a general assessment of levels of social acceptance and cultural tolerance towards domestic violence.

The P.P.D.V.P. said that all participants, including victims, Police, central government and NGO participants, agreed that awareness of domestic violence has increased markedly in Samoa.

According to its website the P.P.D.V.P. is an initiative of the New Zealand Agency for International Development, New Zealand Police (N.Z.P.O.L.) and the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police (P.I.C.P.).

“The long-term goal of the programme is ‘a safer Pacific free from domestic violence’,” the site reads. In regards to the increase of domestic violence awareness in Samoa the organisation offered up an example given to them by an unnamed Non-Government Organisation (N.G.O.) representative.

“Back in school, most of the elective topics that the students would study would be things like global warming,” the paper reads. “Now it is about domestic violence.

“Therefore I think kids are aware of domestic violence. “They have to research the issue.”

The P.P.D.V.P. also reported that there were positive shifts in domestic violence were also evidenced through public outcry against publicly trialled cases such as that of Samoan rugby player Paul Perez’s conviction in 2009 for domestic violence.

“There was a case of a rugby player who hit his wife. It was in the newspaper and he lost his reputation,” the paper reports another unnamed N.G.O. representative as saying.

“He was quite popular, he was a role model, but when that happened he just came tumbling down.”

The P.P.D.V.P. offered up reasons for this increased awareness of domestic violence.

“The increased awareness of domestic violence was generally attributed to extensive education and grassroots awareness campaigns,” the paper reads.

“That have more recently been complemented by Police community engagement and awareness programmes.”

So with increased awareness and what appears to be greater acceptance of concerns about domestic violence here, the World Health Organisation (W.H.O.) in its Multi-country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence against Women found 41 per cent of ever- partnered women had experienced physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner and 20 per cent had experienced sexual violence in their lifetime.

The data collected for Samoa was taken in 2000 by W.H.O. with the help of the then Ministry of Women Affairs, where a nationwide representative sample of 1,640 Samoan women aged between 15 and 49 years was interviewed.

The results are published on the W.H.O. website. W.H.O. reports that the study assessed women’s experiences of violence using a questionnaire developed and validated for cross- cultural use, with a special focus on violence by intimate partners.

“The combined prevalence for physical or sexual violence by a partner for ever-partnered women (women who had ever been in a relationship) was 54 per cent for those with primary education, 45 per cent for those with secondary education, and 35 per cent for those with higher education,” W.H.O. found.

“Violence was also less common for women living in urban areas and for women with higher income levels.” W.H.O. also reports that women who had been physically or sexually abused were significantly more likely to report pain, at 29 per cent, than never-abused women, at 22 per cent, and more likely to report dizziness, 55 per cent versus 44 per cent, and bodily discharge, four per cent versus two per cent.

“Women who had experienced partner violence more frequently contemplated suicide, 15 per cent versus 8 per cent,” the W.H.O. reports.

“Abused women who had ever been pregnant were significantly more likely to have had stillborn children, 16 per cent versus 10 per cent and miscarriages 15 per cent versus 8 per cent.”

The WHO also discovered that only 54 per cent of physically abused women, particularly rural women – had disclosed their experience to anyone.

“25 per cent confided in their parents, 12 per cent in friends, 7 per cent in siblings, and five per cent in neighbours,” according to W.H.O. “Less than two per cent told medical staff or police.

“85 per cent of women physically abused by their partner had never asked any formal agency for help.

“Of those who did, police and medical facilities were the most frequently mentioned.”

According to the study the main reasons given for seeking formal help were that they could no longer endure the violence, mentioned by 65 per cent who sought help, had been badly injured, at 27 per cent, their partner had threatened to kill them, at seven per cent, or the children were suffering, also at seven per cent. “86 per cent of physically abused women who did not seek help stated that they had not done so because they thought such abuse “normal”, or not serious enough to seek help,” the W.H.O. findings concluded.

Shadow Minister for the Ministry of Justice Courts and Administration Papali’i Lio Taeu Masipau says there are more than 500 cases waiting for a decision at the Land and Titles Court.

He is calling for the ministry to hire more Land and Titles Court (L.T.C.) judges.

According to the former Police Commissioner and lawyer, this would help minimise the backlog. Papali’i believes the appointment of District Court Judge Fepulea’i Ameperosa Roma some weeks ago is timely.

When Judge Roma was sworn in two months ago, Chief Justice Patu Tiavaesu’e Falefatu Sapolu said he would be spending the first half of his appointment assisting the Land and Titles Court matters.

Papali’i believes Judge Roma’s appointment is very important. Especially since L.T.C. deals with important matters pertaining to Samoan heritage such as its lands, he said.

“Eighty per cent of lands in Samoa are customary especially the matai titles and that is the importance of the Land and Titles Court.”

Papali’i claims there are “perhaps 500 appeal matters left to be reviewed”.

These matters go back five years, he said. Papali’i also acknowledged the work of President of the Land and Titles Court Tuala Kerslake.

He said Tuala’s selection to the position has brought “huge” changes in the processing of matters that go through the LTC.

He expressed his appreciation for the appointment of Judge Roma to assist the President in the processing of these appeals. But he urges the government, Chief Justice and the Court Commission to appoint more judges to work in the L.T.C. saying this is pivotal to ensuring smoother case management.

Papali’i is also calling for the “same opportunities and priority” given to the Supreme and District Courts for the L.T.C. In comparing the current matters of appeals from the Supreme and District Courts, Papali’i says most cases are a year or two earlier.

Yet matters of appeal in L.T.C. go back five years or more. He prays that with the new appointment of Judge Roma the 500 cases will soon dwindle to a smaller number.

Small Island Developing States (S.I.D.S.) need a “data revolution” to ensure “accountability” towards overcoming challenges they face, according to a “zero draft” outcome statement for the upcoming September meeting.

A data revolution is required S.I.D.S. to enable “effective” follow up, evaluate and “track success” towards internationally agreed development goals.

That draft call was among those made last week in a document circulated to island states from the Bureau of the Preparatory Committee for the Conference, being held in Samoa.

Member states have until 11th April to provide written feedback ahead of an inter-sessional meeting of the Preparatory Committee, to take place from 21-25 April 2014 in New York.

An improved data approach appears to be the one single unifying aspect to the draft outcome statement, amid wide- ranging concerns relating to sustainable development.

A priority for post-2015 targets is to establish “a robust global monitoring system that strengthens accountability at all levels and ensures adequate and timely analysis of implementation, and includes, where appropriate, clear targets and indicators that are relevant and meaningful to S.I.D.S.”

Lack of meaningful progress is a frequent criticism thrown at regional and international bodies, a concern growing more urgent as climate change threatens to undo decades of economic growth.

“The vulnerabilities of S.I.D.S will continue to grow unless urgent steps are taken to address our common environmental, social and economic challenges,” reads the draft.

“The large range of impacts from climate change and potentially more frequent and intense natural disasters constitute unprecedented threats for S.I.D.S.”

Under the section on climate change, the draft reads that “We stress that climate change remains the greatest challenge to SIDS.

“Its adverse impacts, including resulting sea level rise and more frequent and intense natural disasters, continue to undermine progress towards development and, in the case of some SIDS, pose an existential threat.”

Despite the looming threats, data – including statistics – is often completely missing from official records, or is not available to the public.

One example is PacNet, a regional disease surveillance network that, despite being set up years ago among 26 countries and territories, still only has reports from four member countries.

Many governments have proven resistant to sharing data publicly because of fears about public criticism.

A new Samoan feature length film is on its way.

Titled "Liliu le Taimi", it is written and directed by a 25 year old Samoan, Jordan P. Kwan.

"We're excited about completing this film," said Mr. Kwan.

"It's a collaborative effort by a group of young and talented Samoans who are passionate about developing Samoa's creative arts.

"It's important to see more of our stories on screen, and it's important for them to be told by OUR Samoan people FOR our Samoan people.

And with the advent of new and exciting technology, producing quality films has never been more accessible on a budget.

"The film is also the perfect creative outlet for many of our young Samoans -- such as myself -- whose talents lie outside sports," said Mr. Kwan in a press release.

"Don't get me wrong -- Samoa is well known for producing top quality athletes. "But our youth aren't just about sports.

We have talents that lie elsewhere, and the people who have contributed to this film, both in front and behind the camera, is testament to that."

The film stars Ally Tupuola and Darren Tinai in the lead roles. Miss Tupuola, who hails from Siusega, is a recent graduate from the University of Auckland, and former Head Girl and alumni of Samoa College.

Mr. Tinai, of Aleisa and Lepea, is a student at the Auckland University of Technology, and an alumni of Robert Louis Stevenson.

"The movie is essentially a love story, but with a strong legal background," said Ms. Tupuola.

The film follows the story of protagonists William and Tiare, who work in an Auckland based law firm belonging to a successful Samoan lawyer. Scenes of the film also take place in Samoa.

"When the script was first developed, it was essential for Mr. Kwan to develop characters that were not only three dimensional, but also had knowledge based vocations.

And that's new. We believe in the need of developing screen content that portrays our Samoan people as high achieving individuals.

The goal is to implicitly inspire a new generation of Samoans to aim high in their lives," said Ms. Tupuola.

"While it is definitely modern, there are many running themes that our people can relate to and appreciate.

It's a love story, yes, but it's also a story about the endurance of the human spirit, and maintaining faith in God in the face of tribulations," said Mr. Tinai.

"Our Samoans will love it!" The film entered its pre-production phase early in January, with a release date currently unknown.

Palisi residents say that they may live close to town but that they lack access to that most basic of services – a bus.

Driving up the narrow roads of Palisi, a small village on a hilly side road, there are few people to be seen walking about as the rain falls.

They say there is a reason for this. “Living here all our lives has been a challenge”, said one resident Ioane Maiava. “It’s good now that we have a ditch so all the water can wash away”, he said.

“Unlike before, families had a tough time coping with the water especially during the rainy seasons.” It may not be a big fuss for some, but Mr. Maiava and his family are one of the few that clean up the ditches whenever they get blocked.

“Some families have built their houses even a bit higher on the hill just for the safety of everyone especially the children because they like to run around outside”, said Mr. Maiava.

But deeper ditches bring their own problems – there is no where to jump to when traffic passes through – there is no footpath.

Maiava explained that the ditch is not the only problem for them. The narrow road that runs through the villagehas another downside for most of the residents that live in this tiny area.

“If only we had footpaths as well it would be easier for people to travel since that the road is too narrow for people to walk on”, he said.

He said that people had to jump on the other side of the ditch when cars come through the road because it is too narrow for them to walk on.

“Clearly, this is why I think the roads have to be widened so that cars have enough space to travel and so will people have space to walk”, said Mr. Maiava.

But it is not being able to use buses that most concerns residents. Seneuefa Ianuari is a resident who knows what it is like to have to get out and walk on hot days.

“Buses cannot come through this road because it’s too narrow and it’s on a daily basis that we have to stop the bus at Vaimea and walk home”,.

Many of the villages in the country have their own buses but not this small village.

“The road is so narrow that drivers hardly want to come through here”, she said. She said that the Prime Minister had also passed by some time ago but apparently hadn’t noticed any problem with the road.

“Maybe some people are too blind to see things that are right under their noses”, she said.

Ms. Ianuari said that the road had always been the way it is however she was pleased that ditches were in place at the village.

“Floods always ruined the roads, but it’s been a while now since there has been any more floods here”, she said. She hoped that government would now look at widening the roads because that’s something that still needs looking at, she said.

A foreign investor who owns one of Samoa’s well known clothing outlets, Value Village, has won recognition in her homeland Fiji as Businesswoman of the Year.

Hundreds of people turned up at the Novotel Entertainment Centre in Lami last week to recognise and celebrate the commercial success of women in Fiji.

Women in Business Award Businesswoman of the Year Vera Chute Laveti said the risks her parents took 23 years ago had paid off. Ms Chute who is the managing director of Value City Limited said the award was in recognition of her parent’s hard work.

“Winning this award is in recognition and appreciation of my parent’s foresight hard work and sacrifices,” she said.

Ms Chute said because of her parent’s sacrifices they now had seven branches, three warehouses Fiji wide, franchises in Samoa, Solomon Islands and Kiribati.

Her Fiji company, Tuliki Investments, owns 55 of 100 shares in Value Village (SP) Ltd, with the other 45 shares held by Adimaimalaga Tafunai.

Ms. Chute told Fiji Times women should be recognised for their hard work. “We should be recognised for our hard work, resilience and dedication to succeed in what once was predominantly a man’s world,” Ms Chute said.

She wants to be more involved in assisting women in small business ventures related to their business. Ms Chute plans to work with WIB Fiji in line with their objectives and plans for this year.

She thanks organisers and sponsors for organising an event to celebrate commercial success of women in Fiji.

Virisila Buadromo, the executive director of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) was awarded with the Executive Women of the Year Award.

She regards herself as one of the lucky ones given she is paid for work that she is so passionate about.

She strongly believes in the vision and mission of FWRM which motivates her team to work toward their goals. One of her key ideals is that the race is not determined by where you start but where you finish.

Her mother Liku Buadromo was present to receive the award on her behalf. Mrs Buadromo said Virisila had gone through a lot of difficulties, but never gave up. She thanked the Almighty for his protection and guidance and this she said was evident in Virisila’s life and the awards she had won.

Aspring Enterprenuer of the Year was awarded to Beatice Nast who is the managing director and shareholder for Westside Motorbike Rentals (Fiji) Limited operated out of Nadi.

Ms Nast said one of her main challenge was being a woman working in a male dominated industry like motorcycles.

It took a long time for staff members to accept her as the owner and decision maker, but she managed to overcome this by working together with them on the floor, learning their language and proving to them that women could be equals. – with reporting by Nanise Loanakadavu, Fiji Times

The Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry holds its annual general meeting this afternoon.

The national private sector organisation of Samoa is hosting its A.G.M. as businesses take a more active role in development policy and the chamber has taken a higher profile on issues facing the country, expressing rare criticism to attack proposals for increased electricity charges.

Business includes election of office bearers and acceptance of new private sector organisations to the executive council.

The chamber is also involved with annual talks giving input to the government on its yearly spending, making wide ranging recommendations.

One of those recommendations is “that the Government consider implementing a small efficiency dividend across all ministries and government agencies on an annual basis to encourage efficient and effective public administration while reducing costs.”

Such a dividend would help counter the issue where ministries that save money suffer budget cuts.

Member of Parliament, Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, says he trusts Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.

However, for the sake of good governance, transparency and accountability, the Associate Minister of Communications and Information Technology says the Prime Minister should let go of his Minister of Finance, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga.

“The only solution is to let him go,” Papali’i told the Samoa Observer during an interview last weekend. But if Tuilaepa does not, Papali’i asked: “Who would trust him anymore?”

Papali’i said leaders must lead by example. “I trust the Prime Minister very much,” he said.

“The only thing that has raised questions in my mind (about the Prime Minister) is that he is also an Accountant and he should understand the findings by the Auditor, which have been confirmed by the Parliamentary Committee.”

The findings in question are contained in Controller and Chief Auditor, Fuimaono Camillo Afele’s report to Parliament for years 2009 and 2010. The report highlights instances of “corrupt practises” in the running of some government ministries.

The incidents at the Samoa Land Corporation (S.L.C.), under the leadership of Faumuina as Minister, are particularly alarming. In one incident, a vehicle purchase which should have cost $200,000 or less ended up costing $340,000.

Another incident involved millions of tala paid to a “middleman” for a water drilling truck that ended up costing the government nearly twice the amount than what had been initially budgeted.

According to Papali’i, the worst part is the Corporation’s failure to respond to Management Letters from the Chief Auditor. Such a failure does not reflect well on the government.

It is why he believes the Prime Minister should be bold to make a decision on Faumuina.

“The so-called transparency, accountability and good governance is not being reflected through these things, judging from what’s happening,” Papali’i said.

Speaking about a recent six and a half hour H.R.P.P caucus meeting over Faumuina, Papali’i said he made his feelings known to Tuilaepa.

“I told the Prime Minister that Faumui doesn't love Tuilaepa, he doesn't love H.R.P.P, and he especially doesn't love the country.

“That’s why I suggested that it would be best to ask Faumui to resign.”

According to the former Finance Minister, “it wasn't just me who felt the same way. There were others.”

Another Cabinet Minister told the meeting that members of the public have lost faith in the Minister of Finance.

“Every time Faumui submits a report; I get goosebumps,” the Cabinet Minister told the meeting. Papali’i said he is unsure why Tuilaepa is reluctant to let go of Faumuina.

But the issue is dividing the party, he said. Speaking about Siumu Member of Parliament, Tuu’u Anasi’i Leota’s threat to set up a new party, Papali’i said, “Tuu’u knew the consequences (of party hopping).

Besides, “we can’t form a party by ourselves... there are only two of us...

“But Tuu’u’s frustration is the lack of action against Faumui.” Duringthecaucusmeeting,Papali'i said there were suggestions from some members for the party to make a decision on Tuu’u.

“There was no reason to make a decision on Tuu’u, these are party issues... the main issue is the case of Faumui.

“Why didn't S.L.C respond to management letters?” Papali’i said he is only speaking out because he cares about the country and people deserve to know how their money is being spent.

“My aspiration is to stop corruption,” he said. “As long as corruption is still going, I’mkeentostayintheretomakesure corruption is stopped.

“Why? It has a massive impact on the lives of people when it comes to the use of public funds, especially when I see that public servants, officials, ministers and contractors are colluding to defraud public funds.” The Officers of Parliament Committee report, which confirms the findings of the Controller and Chief Auditor’s report, will be debated in Parliament today.

Two prominent figures are among four people who have been declared bankrupt by the government.

Lawyer Tole’afoa Solomona Toa’iloa, of Tulaele, and Henry Wulf, of Tuana’imato, were named in a list of people “adjudged as bankrupts” by the government during the weekend. Others include Talitiga Fanueli, of To’omatagi, and Seumua Tavita Nikolao, of Leone.

A public notice signed by Oloipola Terrence Betham, as the Official Assignee, did not give details about each case. It confirmed, however, that while Tole’afoa was declared bankrupt in October 2013, Mr. Wulf became bankrupt on 6 December 2013.

Talitiga was declared bankrupt in April 2013 with Seumua in June 2013. Little is known about Talitiga and Seumua. But the same cannot be said about Tole’afoa and Mr. Wulf.

Their names have raised eyebrows in the community. A prominent figure in the legal fraternity who is arguably one of the best defence lawyers in Samoa, Tole’afoa is no stranger to the public eye.

He was once the leader of a group that opposed the government’s plan to switch the side of the road for vehicles to travel on.

At the time, he announced his intentions to run for Parliament. He was extremely critical of how the government was being run, especially in relation to the switch.

Mr. Wulf on the other hand is a local promoter and owner of Pure Reggae. The businessman was one of the leading figures behind the UB40’s visit to Samoa during the 50th Independence celebration. He also helped bring to Samoa a number of other internationally recognised bands.

According to the public notice, under Section 138 of the Bankruptcy Act 1908, every person adjudged a bankrupt who does not comply with the relevant provisions of the Act shall be deemed to have committed and offence.

Upon conviction, he/she is liable to two years imprisonment.

The notice also declared that “all of the properties of the above bankrupts whatsoever and wheresoever situate shall vest in the Official Assignee as from the dates of adjudication.

“Each of the above bankrupts is hereby instructed pursuant to Section 58 of the Act to comply with the provisions of the Act and to the utmost of his powers aid in the realisation of his property and the distribution of the proceeds amongst his creditors as required under Section 60 of the Act.

“The above bankrupts are instructed to give an inventory of their property; list of creditors and debtors and of the debts due to them and from them as well as their contact addresses within 4 weeks of the date of this notice to the Official Assignee at the address above.

“The above are also required to attend a meeting with his creditors at a date and place as determined by the Official Assignee.”

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, downplayed an H.R.P.P caucus meeting held late yesterday afternoon, saying it was the party’s regular meeting.

Speaking to the media after the meeting held inside the Cabinet room, Tuilaepa said he had no comment to make since it was a regular meeting for the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P).

The meeting was well attended. Members of the party who were present declined to comment. One source, however, told the Samoa Observer that the subject of the meeting was a “tough one.”

He said the issue involved the Minister of Finance, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga. Another source said there are fresh attempts made to remove Faumuina from Cabinet over his recent behaviour.

The source said another letter signed by a number of H.R.P.P members has again been given to the Prime Minister.

Yesterday’s meeting was held on the eve of the much-anticipated Parliamentary session today, where the Officers of Parliament Committee (OPC) report, confirming the Controller and Chief Auditor’s Report to Parliament, is to be discussed.

Two weeks ago, Prime Minister Tuilaepa rejected claims that his government has ignored incidents of “corrupt practises” highlighted by Chief Auditor Fuimaono.

The incidents – including allegations about the spending by Cabinet Minister, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga among other issues - were investigated and confirmed by the Officers of Parliament Committee.

“The discussion of this matter is not finished,” Tuilaepa said.

“Remember that the presentation of the report (by the Officers of Parliament Committee) was made (in Parliament).

Then the session ended but it was made clear that when (Parliament) reconvenes, we will discuss it.

“The process is that when the report arrives, it is tabled. So it was tabled and Muagutu presented it,” he said, referring to O.P.C. Chairman Muagututagata Peter Ah Him.

“It hasn't been debated.”

Tuilaepa confirmed that debate should begin on 18 March 2014.

That’s today. Yesterday, the Prime Minister did not say whether it is usual for the H.R.P.P to meet on a Monday afternoon.

A man from Vailele is recovering at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital following a near fatal fight on Sunday night.

The man, whose identity is not known, is believed to have gotten into a fight with a relative from the same village during a drinking session.

A sharp object is suspected to have been used to inflict the injury.

It was not possible to get a comment from the Police yesterday. But at the Vaiele house where the incident happened, there was a strong Police presence when the Samoa Observer arrived.

A relative who spoke to the Samoa Observer on the condition of anonymity said their lawyer has told the family to refrain from speaking to the media.

“The incident happened on Sunday evening,” he said. “The two men involved were having a drink in the afternoon.

They both work throughout the week so this was the only day they get to relax and have a drink.

“They don’t often drink so I think they both had too much beer and it ended badly.

At about seven o’clock that evening, the relative said: “We heard somebody screaming.

Because they were drinking at the back, we could not see them.” Relatives nearby rushed to the incident and found the badly injured man.

“We are not sure about what happened between them and the reason why the other person reacted angrily.”

The family member said the man was in a critical condition when he was admitted to the hospital.

“A police officer was here just before you came to inform us that our relative who got hurt is still breathing,” he said.

“I cannot provide any more details, because our family lawyer has informed us not to talk to anyone else.

“The only thing that I am happy about is that the one who got hurt is still alive and I thank God for the good news.”

The Minister of Justice and Courts Administration, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, is adamant. She says the country needs a Family Court to deal specifically with the issue of family violence, among other family-related matters.

“You have asked the question of whether there are enough cases to warrant the set up of such a Court,” Fiame said. “The answer is yes. There are more than enough.

“The existence of the Family Safety Act is testament to the increasing number of cases involving violence and abuse against women and children. This is also why the government is pushing this legislation.”

The Minister was speaking in Parliament yesterday during the second reading of the Family Court Bill 2013. The bill proposes the establishment of a Family Court, among other things.

According to Fiame, the law as it stands, especially in relation to cases of abuse against women and children heavily favours the perpetrators because of the notion that an accused is innocent until proven guilty.

“That placed protection of the offenders first instead of the victims,” Fiame said.

“This Court will be part of a body of work" with a specific focus on issues in relation to families. Minister Fiame believes strong families hold the key to a prosperous nation. She told Parliament that for many years, there has been a belief that the law should not touch differences within families.

This, she said, has been detrimental for “vulnerable” women and children who are subject to abuse and violence on a daily basis. Now, there is a “new international trend” to set up courts that deal specifically with family violence and family issues.

“The idea is to protect the vulnerable,” she said. Fa’asaleleaga No. 2 M.P, Papali’i Taeu Masipau, welcomed the new law. But he reminded Parliament that issues pertaining to land and titles are far more important to Samoans and that’s where the focus should be.

He said there is a backlog of about 500 cases at the Land and Titles Court and he believes the Ministry should address that first. FalealupoM.P.,AeauPeniaminaLeavai supported Papali’i.

He said there have been several cases where “our parents have passed on” while cases involving issues of titles and land, which are precious to them, remain unsolved by the Court.

“In my opinion, the priority should be given to Land and Titles cases,” he said.

“The issues there are of paramount importance to all Samoans.” At this point, Fiame objected.

She reminded the House that the bill being debated is that for the Family Court. Turning her attention to Aeau, she told the veteran M.P. that he would be free to express his opinion about the Land and Titles Court when a bill about it is tabled. “But try and stay close to the middle of the road,” she said.

“We are talking about the Family Court.” Speaker of Parliament, La’auli Leuatea Polata’ivao, joined the debate, saying to Aeau: “Family first, land and titles later.” Faleata West M.P., Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi, said that while the bill is valuable, the focus was wrong. He told Parliament that as leaders of the country, they should be more concerned about street vendors and child labour.

The M.P. spoke about his experience on a recent Saturday where he and some friends were harassed by street vendors begging for money. “When we were at the S.N.P.F. plaza, at least ten street vendors approached us there,” he said.

“When we moved to the Marina at Matautu, another six kids approached us. In my opinion, this is what we should focus on. We should look at the issue of child labour. “The problem for us is that we’ve got too many laws but the implementation is lacking.”

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, immediately took the floor asking Leala to reconfirm the day he went with his friends. Told it was Saturday, the Prime Minister said there was nothing wrong with what the children were doing. At least they were making good use of their time, he said, as opposed to Leala whom he said spends too much time loafing around.

Fa’asaleleaga No. 1 M.P., Gatoloaifaana Amataga Gidlow said families are extremely important since this is the source of blessings. In support of the bill, she, however, highlighted the need to follow up on decisions by the Family Court to ensure they are respected and effective.

Falelatai and Samatau M.P.,TaefuLemi,who is also the Associate Minister of Justice, said the bill was long overdue. He said the Family Court should have been set up before the Oloamanu Detention Centre was established.

“But it’s better late than never and I want to thank the Minister for the initiative,” he said. Gagaemauga No2 M.P.,LevaopoloTalatonu, and Falealili M.P., Tusa Misi Tupuola both supported the bill but asked about the possibility of reviving the Circuit Court.

They also wondered if the service would be extended to Savai’i. In response, Fiame said the Court will reach Savai’i but the mention of the Circuit Court reminded her of the “Back to the Future” movie.

As for Gatoloa’i’s advice about following up on decisions, she assured that this would be done but “it’s going to be a very big challenge.”

Fai mai le Faipule o Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, e na te talitonuina le Palemia o Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Fai mai le Faipule o Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, e na te talitonuina le Palemia o Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Ae peitai, e mo le ta’uleleia o se faigamalo lelei, fai mea tonu ma le mautali atu, fai mai le Minisita Lagolago o Feso’otaiga ma Fa’amatalaga Fa’a-Tekonolosi, ua tatau ona ave ese e le Palemia lana Minisita o Tupe, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga.

“Na pau le fofo o le ave ese mai o Faumuina,” o le talanoa atu lea a Papali’i i le Samoa Observer i le taimi o le fa’atalatalanoaga i le vaiaso talu ai.

Ae afai e le faia e Tuilaepa lea tulaga, fai mai Papali’i: “Ia o ai la e toe talitonu ia te ia?” Fai mai Papali’i e tatau ona tausolomua i taitai le fai ma fa’ataitaiga.

“E matua o’u fa’atuatuaina lava le Palemia,” o lana fa’aaliga lea.

“Na pau le mea lea e tu’ufesili ai lo’u mafaufau (e uiga i le Palemia), o le itu lea, o ia foi o se Tausi Tusi, ma e tatau ona ia malamalama i auiliiliga po’o lipoti a le Sue Tusi, lea na fa’amaonia e le Komiti o le Palemene.”

O le auiliiliga o lo’o fesiligia o lo’o teu malu i le lipoti i le Palemene a le Pule ma Sue Tusi Sili, Fuimaono Camillo Afele, mo le tausaga 2009 ma le 2010. O lea lipoti o lo’o fa’apupula manino ai ‘faiga pi’opi’o’ i le galuea’ina o nisi o matalagaluega a le malo.

O mea na tutupu i le Fa’alapotopotoga o Eleele a Samoa (S.L.C), i lalo o le taitaiga a Faumuina a’o avea ma Minisita, na tele ina maofa ai.

I se tasi o mea na tupu, o se ta’avale na fa’atau mai, lea e tatau ona $200,000 pe itiiti ifo foi, na o’o atu lona tau i le $340,000.

O le isi faiga, e a’afia ai le faitau miliona tala na totogi atu i se tagata tutotonu (middleman) mo le loli vili vai lea e toe itiiti fa’aluaina le tau na tu’uina atu e le malo nai lo le tau na fuafua muamua i le tala o le tupe.

E tusa ai ma fa’amatalaga a Papali’i, o le vaega pito sili ona leaga, o le lē mafai lea e le Fa’alapotopotoga ona tali atu i le Tusi a le Pulega mai le Sue Tusi.

O nei faiga ma le lē mafai ona tali atu, e le o logo lelei i le malo. O le ala lea e na te talitonu ai, ua tatau lava ona lototele le Palemia e fai se fa’aiuga ia Faumuina.

“O le mea e ta’u o le fai mea tonu, mautali atu ma faigamalo lelei, e le o aliali mai i ia faiga fa’apea, pe a fua atu i mea ia o lo’o tutupu mai,” o le fa’aaliga lea a Papali’i.

I sana saunoaga i se fonotaga fa’a-faletui a le HRPP e ono ma le afa itula lata mai, e fa’atatau ia Faumuina, fai mai Papali’i na ia fa’ailoa sa’o atu ai lava ona lagona ia Tuilaepa.

“Na ou fai atu i le Palemia e fa’apea, e le alofa Faumui ia Tuilaepa, e le alofa foi i le H.R.P.P., aemaise ai lona lē alofa i le atunu’u.

“O le ala lena na ou fa’apea ai loa, e sili pe a talosaga ia Faumui ina ia fa’amavae.” E tusa ai ma fa’amatalaga a lē sa avea muamua ma Minisita o Tupe, “e le na o a’u e i ai le lagona lea. E i ai foi isi.”

“Na talanoa atu se isi Minisita o le Kapeneta i le fono e fa’apea, ua le toe fa’atuatuaina e tagata o le atunu’u le Minisita o Tupe.

“O taimi uma e tu’uina atu ai e Faumuina se lipoti, e maniti o’u tino,” na fai atu ai le Minisita o le Kapeneta i le fono. Fai mai Papali’i, e na te le mautinoa pe aisea lava e fa’a-faigata ai ia Tuilaepa ona tu’u Faumuina e alu.

Ae o lea ua mavaevae ai le vaega fa’aupufai i lea mataupu, o lana tala lea. I le talanoaina o le tau fa’amata’u o le Faipule o Siumu, Tuu’u Anasi’i Leota, i le fa’atuina o se patī fou, fai mai Papali’i, “Na iloa lelei e Tuu’u ala o mea (le fa’amoemoe o le pati).

O le isi itu, “E le mafai ona ma fa’atuina se patī e maua lava ia.... e na o le to’alua maua. “Ae o le lē fiafia o Tuu’u, o le leai o se gaioiga e faia fa’asaga ia Faumui.” I le fonotaga, na i ai ni manatu mai nisi o sui, mo le patī ina ia fai se fa’aiuga ia Tuu’u.

“E leai se mafua’aga o le a fai ai fua se fa’aiuga ia Tuu’u, o fa’afitauli ia o le patī....o le fa’afitauli autu lava o le mataupu a Faumuina. “Aisea na lē tali ai le S.L.C. i tusi a le pulega?”

Fai mai Papali’i, ua ala ona ia talanoa mai i ia mea, ona o lona alofa i le atunu’u ma tagata, aua e tatau lava ona latou silafia le tulaga o lo’o fa’aalu i ai tupe.

“O lo’u naunautaiga, ia taofia ia faiga pi’opi’o,” o lana fa’aaliga lea. “Po’o le a lava le umi e faifai ai pea ia faiga pi’opi’o, ou te naunau lava ia ou nofo ai i o, ina ia mautinoa ua taofia faiga pi’opi’o ia.

“Aisea?

O se itu lē manuia tele lea i soifuaga o tagata aemaise le fa’aaogaina o tupe a le malo, aemaise lava pe a ou va’ai atu i le aufaigaluega a le malo, o tagata maualuluga, o minisita ma le au faipisinisi o lo’o auaufa’atasi i le fa’a-togafiti ona fai tupe a le malo.”

O le lipoti a le Aufaigaluega a le Komiti o le Palemene, lea sa fa’amaonia ai auiliiliga po’o mea na maua mai i le lipoti a le Pule ma Sue Tusi, o le a fefa’aalia’i ai manatu i le fa’atasiga a le Palemene i le asō.

Kidney diseases have been likened to a “tsunami wave” sweeping across the Pacific. If Samoa is not careful, the damage it is capable of inflicting could be irreparable.

The warning was given by the Minister of Health, Tuitama Dr. Leao Tuitama, in Parliament yesterday.

He was speaking about changes being proposed by the government to the structure of the Samoa National Kidney Foundation (S.N.K.F), with the idea of turning it into an independent body.

Proposed in the National Kidney Foundation of Samoa Amendment Bill, the changes include the appointment of a Board of Directors who will in turn appoint a Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O).

According to the Minister, in 2005, there were only five kidney patients requiring specialised dialysis treatment in New Zealand.

Nine years later, 75 patients are being treated by the S.N.K.F at Moto’otua. And that’s not all. There are 300 patients on the waiting list.

This is why kidney failure has been described as a “tsunami” sweeping across the Pacific, the Minister said.

Tuitama told Parliament that changes being proposed would improve the running of the Foundation.

These would help to achieve plans such as enlarging the building at Moto’otua, taking the service to district hospitals and the acquisition of more equipment.

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, welcomed the changes, describing them as “another step forward” for S.N.K.F. Looking back to 2005, Tuilaepa reminded Parliament about efforts to set up S.N.K.F.

“At the time, about five patients were treated in New Zealand. It was costing five-million-tala. That’s why the government looked at setting up our own.”

The first scoping mission to American Samoa was spearheaded by former Minister of Health, Misa Telefoni, Tuilaepa said.

They found that it would cost $40million to set up. A similar mission, this time headed by another Health Minister, the late Mulitalo Siafausa, looked at Australia.

“In Australia, they found help but it was also going to cost 40 million Australian,” he said.

Still, Mulitalo wouldn't give up. With the help of Papali’i Dr. Benjamin and through “special connections,” Mulitalo eventually met with the Minister of the Singapore Kidney Foundation.

“The report that came to me was that when the meeting began, Mulitalo started weeping.

He couldn't find anything to wipe his tears so he just grabbed the side of his shirt and used it to wipe his tears.

Even the Singapore Minister cried. “In the end, the Singapore Minister instructed his Director, ‘don't bring anymore cry babies like this but approve what he wants.’

“That’s how we got our S.N.K.F. for a very cheap price.”

Tuilaepa said the service was vital for Samoa and the changes being proposed would improve the delivery of the service.

But Gagaemauga No. 2 M.P., Levaopolo Talatonu, was sceptical. He said the changes mean the government would need to fork out more money for the Foundation.

But that was not his only concern.

“By establishing more dialysis centres, it could encourage members of the public to continue to eat unhealthy food,” he said.

“We should pour more money towards prevention, that’s where we should focus.” Levaopolo advised the Minister to look at ways to prevent sicknesses that lead to dialysis treatment.

“The Minister should look at canned foods, especially from Asia,” he said.

“In most cases, there are no English labels whereby members of the public can determine what they are eating.”

Gagaifoimauga No. 1 M.P., Tuiloa Anetelea told Parliament that he is a dialysis patient.

“I’m not ashamed to say that perhaps I’m the only one in Parliament who has been affected by this sickness,” he said.

“The sickness is ticklish... “My plea is to please remember our hospital. All I’m asking for is just two machines for the hospital at Safotu.

“If you stay in Safotu and you have to make the long trip to Tusasivi, by the time you get there, you’ll have no more blood, it would’ve been spilled on the road.

“My belief is that if it wasn't for the dialysis centre at Moto’otua, our country would have been finished.

There are too many people with kidney diseases, high blood pressure and diabetes.”

Tuiloa said he gets treated three times a week. “It’s a nice feeling when you know you should have died and yet you are still alive,” he said.

“It’s a good feeling; you get plenty of time to sleep.”

Tuiloa said he has seen an increase in the number of dialysis cases in his village.

“Even in this house (Parliament), I see a lot of members with leg ailments, they should be treated. If not, they should be cut...”

Another H.R.P.P. member, Peseta Vaifou, said he supports the amendments but urged the government to place emphasis on health promotion.

“If this is not done, everyone will end up with kidney problems.”

Faleata West M.P., Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi supported Peseta. He urged Parliament to incorporate exercises into the working day.

“We need to change our attitudes to incorporate healthy living and training into our daily routine,” he said.

Satapuala M.P., Toeolesululu Cedric Schuster also supported the amendments saying bodies like the S.N.K.F. should be independent.

The debate continued last night.

Bring your blankets.

That was the message from Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, to Members of Parliament yesterday when he moved a motion to change Parliament’s working hours.

The motion, which was supported, means Parliament starts at 9am until 1pm. It then resumes at 7pm until 11pm for the remaining days of this session.

Yesterday, Tuilaepa said it was important for the House to get through all the work that they have before them.

In their haste to achieve this, Tuilaepa reminded Members to bring their blankets because the House tends to get quite cold at night.

He said it’s important to stay warm since they don't want anyone “to go quickly.”

Yesterday’s session was much- anticipated.

It was one where the Officers of Parliament Committee report was to be discussed. At press time, it had not happened.

The only bills debated during the morning session were the Family Court Bill 2013 and the National Kidney Foundation Amendment Bill 2013.

Parliament is continuing.

The Land and Titles Court at Mulinu’u has issued a landmark decision affirming the authority of “Tuia” of Vaie’e Safata over “Togamau.”

Made last Friday, the ruling follows a hearing conducted over two days in February, which included a site visit to Togamau in Vaie’e.

To this day, the district of Safata is recognised as being comprised of the two traditional “malae” or meeting places of “ Siulepa” located in the village of Sataoa and encompassing the villages of Saanapu and Lotofaga and “Togamau” in Vaie’e, which encompasses the villages of Mulivai, Fausaga, Fusi and Niusuatia.

The historical significance of “Togamau” is the fact that it is a meeting place of the Safata district and was referred to hundreds of years ago by Tole’afoa in the famous saying: “If you had acknowledged me at Si’ulepa, I would acknowledge you at Togamau.”

Togamau also has significant historical connections to the district of Tuamasaga and the “fale Mataafa.”

It is still current practice that when a significant event occurs in the Tuamasaga district, a notification is given personally to Tuia at his residence of Togamau.

The Land and Titles Court decision stated firstly, that: “The authority over Togamau in Vaie’e is confirmed by the Court to be in the title Tuia, currently held by Tuia Pu’a Letoa and Tuia Aufonolua.”

Secondly, “That the land is located where Tuia Taotofi is buried.” According to the evidence of Tuia Logoiai Pu’a Letoa, the name “Togamau” is derived from the words “Toga” and “mau”, referring in history to the period when Tongans resided in Vaie’e.

Hundreds of skeletal remains were uncovered in the 1990’s at “Togamau” in Vaie’e, and are believed to belong to Tongans who resided in the area hundreds of years earlier.

After discovery of the remains, the Tuia family reburied the skulls and bones at “Togamau” because of the historical significance.

The Land and Titles Court rejected the argument by Te’o Rimoni Ah Chong, Te’o Eteuati and others, that “Togamau” is held by both the “Te’o” and “Tuia” titles and that the malae of “Togamau” encompassed the whole village of Vaie’e from Niusuatia to Fusi.

The Land and Titles Court found that such a notion is contrary to custom and usage, since two titles cannot reside in one “maota” or meeting place and a notification from the district of Tuamasaga could not be delivered to any residence in Vaie’e except Togamau, the residence of Tuia.

Tuia Letoa acknowledged and thanked the Second Petitioners in the case led by Te’o Unasa Le’ulu Dr. Felise Va’a and the Te’o family of Lealofisa, Vaie’e, for supporting the traditional and historical significance of “Togamau” and the authority of the Tuia title.

Outside the Courthouse, Tuia Logoiai Pu’a Letoa called for reconciliation of Vaie’e which is currently divided.

“If we retain the traditions and customs established in history by our ancestors, then peace will naturally prevail. It is crucial that we understand and uphold our history for future generations,” said Tuia.

The Fagali’i-tai bridge has been closed due corrosion.

Work needs to be done for the safety of the public and buses that service this area, according to the Land Transport Authority (L.T.A.).

In an email response to questions, Principal Public Relations Officer, Anelisa Auelua, said the cost of the project is $355,740.30, including GST.

“The existing ford has been affected due to corrosion of reinforcements at the bottom of the ford,” he said.

“That’s the reason behind the refurbishment thereof for the safety of the travelling public.

King Construction has been working on this project since 17 February this year and the project will take up to four months.

A report into the abuse of power at Tafa’igata Prison was due to be released this week, but the Minister of Police and Prisons says there is a two-week delay.

The Commission of Inquiry into Tafa'igata Prison responded to claims of loans between prisoners and police officers and sexual misconduct between them.

Earlier this month the Samoa Observer reported the Commission's report had been sent to the office of the Prime Minister.

The government had suspended the Police Commissioner, Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo, and the prison warden and Assistant Commissioner, Sala Seaga Uili, with pay, and extended the suspension in January, after the inquiry was delayed.

The Acting Police Commissioner and Spokesperson, Fauono Talalelei Tapu, was one of three assistant commissioners who took over until the end of the commissioner's suspension in March, and the Minister of Police and Prisons, Sala Fata Pinati says Fauono will remain in the job until the findings are released.

Last month, the Government called for applications for a commissioner of the newly- established prisons and correction service, which effectively removes the running of prisons from the Ministry of Police.

Sala says the report on the prison is now back with the police and the findings will be made public in two week's time.