O le po anapo na malaga atu ai i Niu Sila le Alii Palemia, Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi aua togafitiga mo le gasegase ua aafia ai o ia. Na ia tuua le Falemai i Motootua i le ta o le fa i le afiafi, e sauni ai lana malaga i le itulaga e sefulu i le po anapo.

O le po anapo na malaga atu ai i Niu Sila le Alii Palemia, Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi aua togafitiga mo le gasegase ua aafia ai o ia.

Na ia tuua le Falemai i Motootua i le ta o le fa i le afiafi, e sauni ai lana malaga i le itulaga e sefulu i le po anapo.

Na faamaonia e Dr Ailao e faapea, ua auina atu nei le Alii Palemia i Niu Sila,ae peitai, e le’i mafai ona ia tuuina mai nisi faamatalaga ona o loo noatia o ia i aiaiga faa-fomai i faamatalaga faalilolilo e uiga i lona gasegase.

Ua tuuina atu lana lipoti i le Pule Sili o le Auaunaga Lautele Tau le Soifua Maloloina, Leota Lamositele Laki Sio, ae peitai, e le i mafai ona maua se fesootaiga ma ia mo se faamatalaga.

O le tuuina atu o Tuilaepa i Niu Sila na fuafuaina ina ua maea ni faamatalaga na faia muamua e faapea o Tuilaepa ua solosolo manuia, ma o le a toe foi o ia i le galuega pe a maea le po na i ai o ia i totonu o le falemai.

O le vaiaso talu ai, o nisi fa’amatalaga na taua e faapea na tuia lona vae i le fao. I le Aso Toonai, sa i ai se tasi o sui o lona aiga na faapea mai, ua manuia ma toe faafoisia lona malosi, ae o lona faletua lava na faapea atu i a te ia, ina ia nofo pea i le falemai e malolo ai.

O le Aso Lulu o le vaiaso talu ai, na fa’ailoa mai i totonu o le saofaiga a le Palemene i le po, ao auai atu i ai le Alii Palemia e faapea, na ia manaomia se ieafu ma se mitiafu, e pulupulu, ona ua maalili, ma kava ai lona tino mai le malulu.

E le i umi lava se taimi, na ia lagolagoina ai loa le manatu o le Palemene, ma tuuina atu o ia i le falemai, lea na tuuina ai o ia i le vaega o Intensive Care Unit.

Na nonofo ai lava ina sui Ofisa a le Malo ona o le tulaga o loo i ai Tuilaepa, i lena aso seia oo mai i le Aso Faraile.

O le Pule Sili o le Ofisa o le Palemia, Vaosa Epa, na ia saunoa mai o le gasegase o Tuilaepa, e le o se gasegase e matuia pe ogaoga. Na ia faapea mai foi ua ia iloa o le toe foi mai o ia mai lana galuega i lenei vaiaso.

Na taua e Ms Epa i le Leitio Faavaomalo a Niu Sila e faapea o loo manaomia e Tuilaepa sina malologa, ona o le pisi tele o le vaiaso lea na fono ai le Palemene.

E lei toe foi mai Ofisa a le Malo, ina ua faafesootai atu mo se faamatalaga mo le Alii Palemia.

O lenei tulaga, na mulimuli mai i tuuaiga mai Minisita i totonu o le Palemene na teena ai le agai ese o le Palemia ina ua gasegase ma sa alu ese mai le Maota i sana asiasiga puupuu.

I le fesootai atu mo ni faamatalaga i le aso ananafi mai le Malo, e le i faamanuiaina.

The Asian Development Bank (A.D.B.) is claiming no responsibility for the customary land debacle that erupted in Samoa last December.

In a letter dated 21 February 2014, obtained by the Samoa Observer, the Officer-in-Charge of the Bank’s Pacific Subregional Office, Caroline Currie, told the group to take their issues surround up with the newly established local Customary Land Advisory Committee (C.L.A.C.).

Her response is to a letter that a group of matai wrote to the Bank last December, calling for the A.D.B to halt the customary land project.

“In 2013 the government established a Customary Land Advisory Commission (CLAC) – an independent body to address customary land matters,” Ms. Currie writes.

“C.L.A.C has a finite period of seven years to develop the leasing framework that will promote the use of customary land.

“It is doing this through extensive and wide ranging stakeholder consultation and community advocacy, including a customary land forum and various expert working groups.

“The C.L.A.C is the appropriate body to address the very specific issues you raised in your letter and I would encourage you to speak with the CLAC.”

Ms. Currie writes that her Bank’s Technical Assistance (T.A.) of the project supports a Samoa government initiative that dates back to the early 2000s when government sought to explore ways to improve access to credit for micro and small enterprises.

“Following the extensive nationwide consultations, the government requested technical assistance from A.D.B. As this is a priority for government, reflected in the Strategy or the Development of Samoa, A.D.B. has been pleased to provide financial and technical support over the years,” she says.

“The centrality of land in Samoa culture and its protection under the Samoan Constitution and the law has guided the government and A.D.B. in agreeing on the most appropriate implementation arrangements for the T.A.

“A task force comprising prominent members of the community and key government officials, has led T.A. implementation.

“The task force has been supported by a team of predominantly Samoa consultants (including the team leader) and a small number of international consultants to fulfil the terms of reference provided by the government.

“Key government ministries, the Attorney General’s Office, and other stakeholders including N.G.O.s, have provided extensive input – through the consultation process led by the task force. “We assure that A.D.B. diligently applied our strict, social and environmental safeguards throughout.”

The group of matai, spearheaded by Lilomaiava Ken Lameta, of Vaimoso and Safotu, raised concerns over a project they say “could alienate 80 per cent of all land in Samoa.”

Other group members include Teleiai Dr. Sapa Saifaleupolu, of Samatau, Fiu Mataese Elisara, of Sili Savai’i and Leulua’iali’i Tasi Malifa, of Afega. In a letter to ADB dated 19 December 2013, the four men filed a complaint under policies that are supposed to protect “indigenous” people affected by bank projects.

In its letter of complaint, the group of matai states that their research shows A.D.B. and the government of Samoa began their customary land project some 15 years ago, ending in a number of laws, including the Land Titles Registration Act 2008, and the Customary Land Advisory Commission Act 2013.

“We are concerned that the ongoing funding by A.D.B. to help our government implement its intention to allow use of our customary lands as collateral for economic development is tantamount to ultimately alienation of our customary lands, and thereby lead to violation of the rights of our Samoan people here and overseas,” the matai letter reads,

Under the complaint, the writers called on the A.D.B. to halt its project. Independent State of Samoa: Promoting Economic Use of Customary Land, Phase III.

Both letters read in full below:

The letter from the Matai:
19 December 2013
Malie Lotolelei Pacific Subregional Office (SPSO) 5th Floor Ra Marama Building 91 Gordon Street, Suva, Fiji mlototele@adb.org

Lodging a complaint on ongoing ADB efforts to allow mortgages on security of customary lands in Samoa

This Firm, together with the gentlemen whose names and signatures appear below, wish to submit this letter by way of our complaint of the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) work with the Government of Samoa, in alienating Samoan customary lands to be readily available as collateral security for loan mortgage transactions.

Research we have undertaken shows ADB and the Government of Samoa began this process some 15 years ago, culminating in the passage into law of a number of statutes specifically for that purpose, including the Land Titles Registration Act 2008, and the Customary Land Advisory Commission Act 2013.

Of course, not only were these statutes written by ADB consultants — which obviously meant the laws were not as the people want and need, but as ADB demands — but also that the consultants themselves were paid for with ADB grant money.

Underlying this project and what these laws permit, is the creation of a land titles registry, by way of “legislative amendments as necessary" to “free up customary land for commercial activities in a designated area or areas.... and to undertake a comprehensive review of the law pertaining to land, including but not necessarily limited to the various legal impediments preventing the movement of land, particularly customary land, to higher economic uses.”

In other words, these laws are to provide for economic use of customary lands. Immediately, this simple question comes to mind: is it critically necessary to change Samoan cultural ownership of land, simply to make money, or, as in the words above, to achieve “higher economic uses”, whatever that is?

Samoans are an indigenous original people in our own right; and as Samoa is a signatory to both the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), ILO 169, and other International Human Rights Instruments, we are concerned that the ongoing funding by ADB to help our government implement its intention to allow use of our customary lands as collateral for economic development is tantamount to ultimately alienation of our customary lands, and thereby lead to violation of the rights of our Samoan people here and overseas.

Customary land is not merely untapped collateral. Rather, it sits at the heart of the fa’aSamoa — of the Samoan political and electoral mainstream, as well as its cultural core and family life. Accordingly, customary land rights are entrenched and securely enshrined in the Constitution.

We request therefore that Projects 41173- 012: Promoting Economic Use of Customary Land, Phase II, and 46512-001: Promoting Economic Use of Customary Land, Phase III, take into consideration that Samoans are an Indigenous People and that this project has a Category A impact.

These land tenure reforms are incompatible with the indigenous culture and political institutions of Samoa, and they are inconsistent with the needs and aspirations of the Samoan people. This is reflected in polls which have been conducted by New Zealand based political scientists and the local newspaper.

In our view, the outcomes of this ADB partnership with our government, with Phase II completed and going into Phase III, shall ultimately result in the resettlement of our people, who, of course, own about 80% of all land.

And these being cultural and customary lands, which under these new laws shall be readily available as loan security, these lands shall immediately become ‘indebted’ to investor interests both foreign and national, and thus, be taken over by commercial banks when default happens.

Ultimately, the interest in the lands are alienated and taken away from the people, contrary to and much against the spirit and intent by which our forefathers as Framers of our Constitution ordained and desired those be.

We ask that ADB refrain from continuing with this project. We believe ADB is not complying with its own policies in respect thereof; it is not abiding with its own compliance mechanisms and or its engagement requirements, and it is not even following its own operational regulations.

We know that the ADB is required to pay special attention to projects which are expected to displace ‘indigenous peoples’, and we can be certain that in the pivotal issue of mortgages by way of this new security of customary lands for ‘higher economic use’ as ADB is promoting in this Samoan project, it has not done that. It has not paid ‘special attention’ to the dire needs of the Samoan people as shall be affected — in fact displaced — by this project. Instead, it has merely provided all aid and monies as the Samoan Government requests and requested, and in the process requires the Samoan Government to do as it wants.

The threshold for triggering the ADB’s Involuntary Resettlement safeguards is that 200 people will be displaced or stand to lose 10% of their productive or income generating assets. The ADB’s land tenure reform projects cross this threshold.

The ADB is aiming to increase borrowing to 50% of GDP by promoting collateral based lending and reducing the risk of foreign investors.

But the projects do nothing to lower the default rate of indigenous borrowers whose land is at stake, and who have historically had extremely high default rates. For example, a recent ADB microloan project had a 30% severe delinquency rate.

So, the ADB knows and has projected a high default rate by Samoan customary land borrowers. The ADB has attempted to estimate a very high percentage of Samoans — noting of course that customary lands is about 80% of all lands - who will take this ‘higher use’ of customary land to borrow on, and of course, fail to pay back the Banks and the loan institutions. It follows that by these new laws, the lands — customary lands — shall be alienated/taken by the Banks, and the people become displaced and dispossessed thereof.

Is this ADB’s special attention to indigenous Samoans — displacement?

We also know that ADB is obliged by its own procedures to evaluate this risk more closely, particularly in a country without strong borrower education programs or predatory lending laws. One step in Project 46512-001 is to create a system whereby leases against customary land may be registered in the Torrens Land Title Registry. The registry of any interest in customary lands under any individual’s name in the Torrens Land Title Registry directly threatens our interests as stewards of customary land.

We request that the ADB refrain from drafting further laws or creating institutions in support of this action, and from any test cases of this action.

At this juncture of the ADB and Samoan Government Phase III Project, we wish to give notice that we will galvanize all support to take this matter through all avenues available, including of course, those of litigation in the Courts of law.

Meanwhile, we ask that ADB through you as its representatives with responsibilities in Samoa and the Pacific, to ensure that ADB is complying with its own policies in this important matter.

Needless to say, sustainable development demands equal and balanced treatment of all in its four pillars of economic growth, social equity, cultural integrity, and cultural protection and enhanced diversity.

Further, we ask ADB to engage in evaluating the real risks of foreclosures that will be inevitable as an outcome of its project if it proceeds, to ensure compliance with its policy of genuine public engagement, consultation and discussion. In this way, Civil Society Organisations (CSO) shall be ensured of adequate funding support in transparency, and thereby assist us all in our role and responsibility to advocate our concerns about this ADB/Samoa government partnership.

Sincerely,

Lilomaiva Ken Lameta — matai of the villages of Vaimoso, Upolu and Safotu, Savaii/Veterinary Doctor/Chairman of the Board of Directors for Ole Siosiomaga Society Incorporated

Dr. Telaiai Sapa Saifaleupolu — matai of the village of Samatau, Upolu/consultant

Fiu Mata’ese Elisara — matai of the village of Sili, Savaii/Executive Director of Ole Siosiomaga Society

Leuluaiali’i Tasi Malifa — matai of the village of Afega/lawyer/Libra Law

cc: Adrien Ruthenberg — Regional Director aruthenberg@adb.org

Xianbin Yao — Pacific Regional Director/ADB. xyao@adb.org

Stephen Groff - Vice President of ADB/Pacific Area sgroff@adb.org

And the response from the ADB:

21 February

Mr. Leuluaialii Tasi Malifa
Libra Law
Vaitele
Apia
Samoa

Dear Mr Malifa:

Thank you for you letter of 19 December 2013 where you raised concerns regarding the Asian Development Bank’s (A.D.B.) technical assistance (T.A.) to government for promoting the economic use of customary land in Samoa.

The T.A. supports a Samoa government initiative that dates back to the early 2000s when government sought to explore ways to improve access to credit for micro and small enterprises. Following the extensive nationwide consultations, the government requested technical assistance from A.D.B. As this is a priority for government, reflected in the Strategy or the Development of Samoa, A.D.B. has been pleased to provide financial and technical support over the years.

The centrality of land in Samoa culture and its protection under the Samoan Constitution and the law has guided the government and A.D.B. in agreeing on the most appropriate implementation arrangements for the T.A. A task force comprising prominent members of the community and key government officials, has led T.A. implementation. The task force has been supported by a team of predominantly Samoa consultants (including the team leader) and a small number of international consultants to fulfil the terms of reference provided by the government. Key government ministries, the Attorney General’s Office, and other stakeholders including NGOs, have provided extensive input – through the consultation process led by the task force. We assure that ADV diligently applied our strict, social and environmental safeguards throughout.

In 2013 the government established a Customary Land Advisory Commission (CLAC) – an independent body to address customary land matters. CLAC has a finite period of seven years to develop the leasing framework that will promote the use of customary land. It is doing this through extensive and wide ranging stakeholder consultation and community advocacy, including a customary land forum and various expert working groups.

The CLAC is the appropriate body to address the very specific issues you raised in your letter and I would encourage you to speak with the CLAC.

Yours sincerely,

Caroline Currie
Officer-in-Charge

A Member of Parliament described by Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, as a “joker” made a rare intervention during the current Parliament session, yesterday.

Siumu M.P., Tuu’u Anasi’i Leota, who has been relatively quiet since Parliament reconvened on Tuesday last week, took the floor to question the leader of the Opposition party, Palusalue Fa’apo II. “Mr. Speaker, I want to ask the leader of the Opposition,” Tuu’u, who recently reneged on a threat he made through the media to form a new political party, said.

“When are you planning to lead the country? Are you looking (at doing that) this year, next year or never (tausaga o apipa).”

Tuu’u spoke out after Palusalue had painted a bleak picture of the way the ruling Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.) has been running the country.

He had accused the government of not caring about the country during the debate of a Committee report into the old age pension scheme. Responding to Tuu’u, Palusalue said: “Mr. Speaker, that’s a good question.

“We are prepared (right now to lead) especially given what’s happening with their party. That’s the truth, it’s not a joke.” Palusalue said there are “big problems” within the H.R.P.P. and Tautua “is prepared” to lead for the sake of the country.

The Opposition leader did not say what the problems are. But Acting Prime Minister, Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo, laughed off Palusalue’s claims.

“This side is united,” he said. “There is nothing wrong with it, absolutely nothing wrong with it.

The only problem we had a few weeks ago is that Tuu’u and Palusalue tried to lead (our party), we don't know where that....” Palusalue immediately interrupted, saying: “I want to correct something...”

To which Fonotoe responded: “Those things came in the paper.” With his voice raised, Palusalue fired back: “The country doesn't believe you anymore because you lied that the Prime Minister was not sick.

“And here you are lying again, that there is nothing wrong with that side.” Fonotoe denied Palusalue’s claim. At that point, Speaker of Parliament, La’auli Leuatea Polata’ivao, ordered Palusalue to stop.

He told him off for breaking Parliamentary protocols. Fonotoe backed the Speaker’s comments about Palusalue violating Standing Orders. But he wasn't done. “Let me remind about this one more time, Mr. Speaker,” he said.

“The pension started with 50 tala. What’s happening now? It has been increased several times.

“Why? This is the result of good works by the government for the fathers and mothers of the country.” Fonotoe explained that 2011, there were 9,325 pensioners. A year later, the number had increased to 9,526, costing the government $15million per annum.

“That’s a lot of money spent to help look after our elderly parents,” he said. The Acting Prime Minister said $1.3m of the total annual pension fund is spent on medical needs, which he said is a tremendous help.

“So it’s not easy when two hundred more people are added,” said Fonotoe. “But why (have two hundred more people)?” he asked.

“People are living longer and that’s because the standard of living has improved. “Why has the standard of living improved? It’s because of the government’s good development programmes that are continuing. We are working day in and day out.”

Fonotoe said part of the government’s continuing development includes a trip to Asau tomorrow to open a water project that will benefit people living in the area.

“These are continuing programmes,” he said. “This is why he (Palusalue) doesn't need to come and lead the country, we know how to do it.”

When Palusalue attempted to respond, Speaker La’auli said it was time for morning tea. Earlier, Palusalue asked the government to consider the bank fees on the pension.

“Even if its two, three or one tala, it still means the pension has been cut for pensioners,” Palusalue said.

“My plea to the government is to look at this. The complaint from elderly mothers and fathers is that by the time they get their money, the two talas and three talas have already been deducted by the banks. “I think the government should pay for these fees, they’re not major fees.”

Parliament was told that “when an elderly person is satisfied, even if the increase is as small as five tala, they’ll still be happy.”

“But even if the deduction is two tala, it makes our elderlies very sad. What’s the point of increasing five tala when you deduct two tala?” Palusalue asked in reference to the government’s recent $5 increase to the pension scheme.

“The government should carry these fees, they’re not major fees. The idea is for pensioners to receive all of their five tala increase.”

Speaker La’auli tried to explain that different banks have different charges. He also said there are banks who have no charges. “Are you saying the banks should provide their services for free?”

La’auli asked Palusalue. Minister of Finance, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga, supported the Speaker.

“Mr. Speaker, you are correct about bank charges,” he said.

“Westpac doesn't charge. I’ve also spoken to them about increasing their in store banking outlets, especially in Savai’i where there are only six in store banking outlets.”

Faumuina said it’s a person’s choice where they bank and each bank has to charge fees in order for them to provide the service.

Referring to the report before Parliament, which he said was from four years ago, Faumuina pointed out that there were only 8,500 pensioners.

“Now its close to 10,000,” he said, adding that a lot of changes have been made to the system.” Palusalue however was still not happy.

“Now Mr. Speaker, the Minister has clearly spoken about fees being deducted from members of the public,” he said.

The Opposition leader then challenged the Minister of Finance to come up with a way for the government to pay for the bank fees.

“Make this your legacy, Mr. Minister of Finance, to remove these fees,” said Palusalue.

“There are only 10,000 people, which probably cost merely 30,000 tala... please save their money, it’s not a lot. “Even if you are sick of hearing our pleas, we will continue to knock. Tuilaepa always says to keep knocking and the door will be opened.” Parliament resumes today.

Three senior officials at the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (M.E.S.C.) are among those suspended in relation to their alleged involvement in the February break-in at the Ministry headquarters at Leifiifi.

Money and assets belonging to the Ministry were stolen during the break-in on Saturday 22 February, 2014.

The confirmation came from the Chief Executive Officer, Matafeo Tanielu Aiafi, yesterday afternoon. He refused to name the officials who have been suspended.

He, however, confirmed that the suspended top position holders include an Assistant Chief Executive Officer (A.C.E.O.) and two Principal Officers.

Drivers employed by the Ministry have also been suspended in relation to the same matter, said Matafeo. He declined to give the number of drivers involved. But he said they are all suspended with pay.

“The decision to suspend them was made last week,” said Matafeo. How long they will be suspended is unknown.

The C.E.O. said the length of their suspensions can only be decided following the Police investigation and Court procedures by the Attorney General’s office.

Matafeo said the suspension is a usual process undertaken by the Ministry when there is an allegation against any employee in such matters. The matter is now with the Ministry of Police, he said.

And “no one is yet guilty” until the decision is made by the Court. He also confirmed that no one has been “terminated” in relation to the alleged incident.

According to information obtained from Police following the break-in, suspects allegedly stole $5,000 from the Accounts office and $500 from another office. These monies were student tuition fees.

Another room broken-in to belonged to an Assistant Chief Executive officer.

The Museum of Samoa was also broken into where donation boxes were damaged and money inside taken. Police at the time could not determine how much money was in these boxes.

Aside from the monies stolen, three laptops were also taken from the school net office. Attempts to get comments regarding their investigation from Acting Police Commissioner, Fauono Talalelei Tapu, were unsuccessful.

He could not be reached for a comment by press time last night.

The Samoa Institute of Accountants hosted their 2014 Induction Programme ceremony last night at the Samoa Conference Centre, Sogi. Seven accountants were awarded for their achievements in different areas of accounting at the event.

The keynote address was delivered by District Court Judge, His Honour Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma. Minister of Revenue Tuiloma Pule Lameko presented the awards. Here are some photos from last night. Full story in tomorrow’s edition. Photos: Sarai Ripine.

Faleata West Member of Parliament, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi, did not mince words yesterday.

Speaking in Parliament about the state of the Apia Township, he said a lot of work needs to be done if Samoa is to attract more visitors.

“There are dogs everywhere in town,” he said. “The problem with stray dogs is not new and yet its getting worse.” And that’s not all. “If you look at the lights lining the seawall, none of them are working.

The grass around town is overgrown, some parts are mowed, others are not.” For example, Lealailepule said that at Mulivai, “the grass has nearly reached the main road. These are everyday things.”

Associate Minister of the Ministry of the Prime Minister's Office, Peseta Vaifou Tevaga, intervened to say that he is part of a Committee that is looking at tackling the stray dog problem.

“The Prime Minister is not here but our committee met about this,” he said. “I want to explain that the reason why these dogs haven’t been put down yet is because we have ordered special rifles for dogs.”

Peseta said the government “used different types before.” “The problem (with those rifles) is that the animal was shot but not killed. So when (staff) collect them for burial, they come back to life.

“That’s why our committee has ordered these special rifles that not only shoot to kill but they can only come back to life once they’re buried in the hole.”

Back on the floor, Lealailepule thanked the “Associate Prime Minister” for his contribution. “I’m glad that it’s being looked into,” he said.

“As with these new special rifles, the Associate Minister should be given them first for a practise round.” On a more serious note, Leala said there is so much rubbish in Apia.

He pointed to a new-found beach at Vaisigano as an example. He said this could be a great recreational area for relaxing walks and the like. But such prospects are ruined by littering.

“My belief is that the number of public servants has increased,” he said.

“As such, resources in terms of vehicles have also increased.

“There is also an increasing number of contractors carrying out this work but we seem to be going backwards.”

Lealailepule said these problems all contribute to the demise of the tourism industry, as it has been recently highlighted by the media.

Leala urged the government to “work together with the private sector” to improve our tourism prospects.

“The government departments exist to offer support and put the private sector first. We shouldn't put ourselves first,” he said.

Speaking about public servants, he said: “The government employed and paid you money to offer help to these people (private sector). They are the ones suffering since they’re taking out loans to make things happen.”

Lastly, Lealailepule reminded that “the government cannot do everything.”

The pinkeye epidemic sweeping the nation has hit workers and bosses hard, with businesses and government reporting high levels of absenteeism.

Yazaki Samoa, Samoa’s largest private sector employer, is reporting a 20 per cent drop in employee attendance rates.

Yazaki General Manager, Funefeai Oliva Va'ai said normally his company has 95 per cent employee attendance, however last week saw that number drop to 76 per cent.

“The rate of absenteeism is pretty high,” he said. “Today (Friday) was rock bottom down to 76 per cent.

“It has impacted a lot on our lines because certain people have certain tasks to do,” he said.

“So we have had to close down some lines because we haven’t got the necessary people to man them. “It means that we may have to look at overtime later on to meet our quota.”

He said Yazaki has been following the Ministry of Health’s advice and have been sending people home if they show signs of the disease.

“Also in the morning, afternoon and evening we have been encouraging people to wash their hands and not to shake hands,” he said.

Meanwhile, government departments have not been immune to the disease with the Public Service Commission Secretary Naea Beth Onesemo- Tuilaepa saying Pinkeye has probably affected the Public Service the same way that it has affected every other place of employment and organisation in the country. “People who are affected are advised to stay at home utilising sick leave to minimise spread,” she said.

“Those who are well will continue to work and extra precaution is taken in the workplace, following advice from the Ministry of Health with regards to hygiene and cleanliness.”

Naea said it was hard for her to gauge how many people within the Service were affected because since 2004 with the passage of Public Service Act 2004, the Samoan Public Service operates under a decentralised human resource management framework.

“This means that everything from the hiring to firing of permanent staff including their daily supervision and management as well as running of day to day operations of agency, is the responsibility of individual C.E.O.s,” she said.

“Thus, individual Ministries and C.E.O.s would be privy to information on absenteeism in their own agency.

“It is also the responsibility of individual C.E.O.s to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made for continuation of their services as well as seeing to health of their staff.”

She said if in an extraordinary event, services cannot be delivered due to impact of disease, individual C.E.O.s can alert them and make a decision to close.

P.S.C. receives a summary of human resources statistics and other information after each quarter.

“The report for the January- March quarter is due in at the end of April.

“Only then will we have data on total absenteeism for the period.” In regards to her department, she said her staff have also been taking heed of the warnings issued by the Ministry of Health.

“As stated above, responsibility for minimising the impact of events such as eye disease within each agency is the responsibility of individual the C.E.O.

“If they need advice (or) assistance from us, C.E.O.s (and) Ministries know they can ask us."

Other businesses were contacted for comment, but had not responded at time of going to press.

O ananafi na toe faamanatu atu ai e le Fofoga Fetalai L a a u l i a l e m a l i e t o a Leuatea Polataivao e faapea o le faafoeina o le Palemene e faatino e tusa ai ma le “pule” ua tuuina atu ia te ia.

O ananafi na toe faamanatu atu ai e le Fofoga Fetalai L a a u l i a l e m a l i e t o a Leuatea Polataivao e faapea o le faafoeina o le Palemene e faatino e tusa ai ma le “pule” ua tuuina atu ia te ia.

Fai mai a ia: “O lo tatou faamoemoe ia tuuina atu mea uma lava i le Alii ae peita’i (a pa’ia loa) le fuafuaina ma polokalame (o mea i totonu o le Maota); e fai i la’u pule faitalia.

“O le Pepa o Galuega e fuafua e ala i le pule faataga a le Fofoga Fetalai.”

Na fai e Laauli lea faaupuga e tali atu ai i fesili na lagā e le taitai o le Itu Agai, Palusalue Faapo II.

Na fesiligia e le Faipule mai Safata le folafolaga a le malo o le a talanoaina le lipoti a le Komiti a Alii Ofisa o le Palemene i le faagasologa o lenei tauaofiaga.

O le lipoti o loo fesiligia o loo faamaonia ai mea na tutupu tau “faiga pi’opi’o” i totonu o nisi o faalapotopotoga a le malo ia sa faaalia manino i le lipoti a le Pule ma Su’etusi Sili. I ni nai minute talu ona amata le tauaofiaga a le Palemene ananafi, e le’i faamaumauina e Palusalue se taimi.

“Lau Afioga i le Fofoga Fetalai, ua uma ona faataatia lau fuafuaga ma ua uma ona e faaalia manino e leai se mea e popole ai (i le toesea o le Palemia o Tuilaepa) talu ai ona o loo tuua le Palemene i ni aao faatuatuaina faatasi ai ma le auai o le Sui Palemia, Kapeneta ma lea itu (H.R.P.P.) ma lenei itu (Tautua),”o le faaaliga lea a Palusalue.

“E i ai la’u fesili e uiga i le lipoti mai le Pule ma Su’etusi Sili, aemaise ai lava le Komiti a Alii Ofisa o le Palemene na su’esu’eina lea lipoti.

O la’u vaai i le Pepa o Galuega mo le asō, e lē o i ai fo’i lea lipoti.

Na ona ‘ou faamanatu atu o loo faatali le atunuu i le talanoaina o lea lipoti.”

O le finauga a Palusalue e faapea e tatau i le Palemene ona faamatala pe aisea ua lē talanoaina ai le lipoti “ae o lea o loo tatalo le atunuu ina ia talanoaina lea lipoti.”

O le taimi lava lea na faauilavea ai loa le Fofoga Fetalai o Laauli.

“Ou te malamalama i lou finaga,” o lana faaaliga lea ia Palusalue.

“(Ae) o le a la le mea o loo tupu,” o le toe tali vave atu a Palusalue.

“O tatou faatali se’i toe fo’i mai le Palemia?” Fai mai Laauli e lē o le tulaga lea. Fai mai a ia sa tatau ia Palusalue ona faitau lelei ana pepa.

“Sa ‘ou mnatu ua uma ona e silasila i le Pepa o Galuega na tauaao atu ia te oe,” o le faaaliga lea a Laauli.

“O lou fai mai ua aveese le lipoti lenei mai le Pepa o Galuega e lē sa’o. Silasila lelei i le itulau o loo i ai. Ua uma ona pasi e le Maota le pepa o a tatou galuega. Aua la ne’i faate’ia oe, aua e leai se mea ua suia.”

Fai mai le Fofoga Fetalai o le lipoti o loo fesiligia “e le o se mataupu e silasila faatalale i ai le Palemene.”

“Ua e silafia o lea tatou te tatalo uma ina ia vave faafo’isia le malosi o lo tatou Palemia, o ia lea o se tasi o loo matua aafia i lenei lipoti ona o ia o le Minisita o Matagaluega uma ia ua e tuua’ia.

O le pogai lea e tatau ai ona e onosa’i ma to’ato’a malie mai.” Sa faamanatu e le Fofoga Fetalai ia Palusalue ua uma foi ona ia fesiligia “la tatou tatalo i le vaiaso talu ai.”

“Aua e te fesiligia le Atua,” o lana faaaliga lea. “O lo tatou faamoemoe ia tuu atu mea uma i le Alii (ae a o’o mai loa i) le fuafuaina ma polokalame (o mea i totonu o le Maota); o la’u pule faitalia lena.

O le Pepa o Galuega e fuafua e ala i le faaaogaina o le pule faataga a le Fofoga Fetalai.”

Fai mai le Fofoga Fetalai ua tatau ia Palusalue ma lana vaega ona sauni mo le felafolafoaiga.

Ae sa lē mafai ona taofia ai Palusalue.

“Ae o le a le pogai ua e tu’u ai e faamulimuli (le talanoaina o le lipoti a Alii Ofisa o le Palemene?” o lana fesili lea.

O le taimi lea na lē lava faapale ai le Fofoga Fetalai. Na ia poloaina Palusalue ina ia nofo i lalo.

“Tu’u mai ia te a’u ou te fuafuaina a tatou galuega, e lē uma le fai aso a le Alii.”

Fai mai Laauli, a itiiti mai e “70 lipoti e tatau ona silasila i ai le Palemene”o lona uiga e tele le galuega e ao ona fai. I se taimi i luma atu, sa faafetaia e Palusalue le Fofoga Fetalai o Laauli ona o le aofia ai i le latou tatalo le sailigā fofō a le Palemia o Tuilaepa i Niu Sila.

“Faafetai Lau Afioga i le Fofoga Fetalai mo lau tatalo faapitoa,” o lana faaaliga lea.

“Faataga mai o a’u e fai ma sui o la matou vaega e faaoo atu o matou moomooga lelei ma faamanuiaga i le Palemia ina ia vave ona faafo’isia lona malosi.

“Ou te fia molomoli atu foi o matou moomooga ma faamanuiga i lona faletua ma le aiga ona o lo latou tiute tau le tausiga o le Palemia. Ia alofa le Atua ma foa’i atu ia te ia le malosi ina ia mafai ai ona tatou vave feiloa’i i se aso ma tatou mafuta iinei.”

A’o lei amataina le vaega aloa’ia o le aso ananafi, sa toe lapata’ina foi e le Fofoga Fetalai Sui Usufono o le Palemene.

“Afai o i ai se tasi ua maua i le faama’i mata, e lē tatau ona tatou faatasi iinei i le Palemene),” o lana faaaliga lea.

“Ua outou silafia uma le mea o loo tupu i a’oga...tatou te le mana’omia le pisia o le Maota.

E tatau ona tatou usita’i i foma’i e pei ona faia e le taitai o le atunuu le faataitaiga e ala i le malaga atu i Niu Sila (mo togafitiga tau gasegase).”

A’o le’i faamutaina taualumaga ananafi, na faatu e le Sui Palemia o Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo se lafo ina ia toe fo’i le Palemene i itula o le 9 i le taeao i le 1 i le aoauli, e ese ai ma vaiaso talu ai lea sa fai ai fono i le afiafi mai le 7 i le 11 i le po. Na lagolagoina le lafo ma pasia, e toe tauaofia le Palemene i le itula e 9 i le taeao nei.

More than 200 families throughout the country have been found to have “obtained electricity by fraudulent means” through the use of the cash power system.

Some seventy of them have been referred to Police for further investigation and charges.

But the number is “just the tip of the iceberg,” Parliament was told yesterday.

The figures were revealed when the Electric Power Corporation’s (E.P.C) Annual Report for 2009-2010 was tabled for debate in the House. Associate Minister for the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Tafua Maluelue Tafua, said the figures are extremely alarming.

Two weeks ago, the M.P. for Aleipata Itupa i Lalo said he accompanied a constituent, whose power had been disconnected, to the E.P.C Office at Sogi.

“I didn't know that my constituent was using electricity illegally,” he said. “He was caught during spot checks.”

At the E.P.C.’s office, an official “told me that when it comes to obtaining electricity by illegal means, the problem is spreading like a wildfire.

“She told me there are over two hundred families whose cases are pending and that they’ve been fined over a thousand tala.”

But there is a much more serious issue, Tafua said.

“If that’s the case, there is over $200,000 that’s not been recovered by the Ministry and yet I’ve been told that this is just the tip of iceberg,” he said. The Associate Minister said E.P.C should carry out an investigation into its workers who are likely to be behind such scams.

“These workers are pocketing the money, instead of the government getting the electricity money,” he said.

“They should be found out and dealt with appropriately.” In support of Tafua, Deputy Speaker, Agafili Patisela Tolova’a, reminded Parliament it was common knowledge that meter installations and the inspection of houses are done by E.P.C.

“What I want to understand,” he said, “when exactly is this process being corrupted through the use of illegal means?”

Associate Minister of Education, Le’aupepe Tole’afoa Fa’afisi, said the issue is so serious the government should make it a priority to stop it.

“We need to stop these corrupt ways of obtaining electricity through illegal means,” he said. “It only takes one fly to ruin the oil.”

Le’aupepe said in Samoa, there is always a tendency for one Samoan to con another. “E.P.C workers need to regularly check (the meters),” he said.

Le’aupepe said his worst fear is that such corrupt ways are “probably why E.P.C is increasing the charges because there is so much money that’s being lost through these illegal means.”

Le’aupepe also urged E.P.C to be more vigilant.

“There are countless families whose metres are still working even though you cannot enter cash power,” he said.

“We’ve notified the Ministry but they still haven’t come to check.” Salega M.P., Afualo Dr. Wood Salele said it’s been four years since Samoa switched to cash power.

“With any technological development, it takes only one or two years to find all the problems. My observation is that problems with this system are not decreasing, they’re only increasing,” he said.

“As a result, the service now is so much more expensive because of all these problems that have arisen. It’s costing the users so much more.”

Afualo said Parliament needs to look deeper into why people are stealing electricity.

“Looking at the report before us, there is no recommendation about reducing the cost of electricity and yet this is why people are taking it through illegal means.

“Most people with low incomes can’t afford, it that’s why they try (to steal it).”

Afualo said it doesn't matter what law Parliament introduces to “provide guidance, it will always be broken.”

“Why? People want to survive. Yes we have to pay for the service but we should look at the cost so that everyone can afford it.”

Acting Prime Minister, Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo disagreed. “It appears from the M.P.’s statement that this is the only reason people are stealing electricity is because they are poor and have no money,” he said.

“There are many other reasons. There is also the type of people who can afford it but they want things for free and that’s why they try to get it for free.”

While Parliament had highlighted the actions of “dishonest members of the public,” Fonotoe said that “maybe there are also dishonest workers in the Ministry.

“Dishonesty is found everywhere and in everyone,” he said. The leader of the Opposition, Palusalue Fa’apo II, immediately objected.

“The allegation against the workers, that they are dishonest, is serious,” he said.

“The question (from Afualo) is about the reason why people steal electricity and that reason is because the cost of living is expensive, they’ve got no other choice.”

Fonotoe again interjected saying there are dishonest people everywhere, whether it’s in the public or private sector.

“No company or Ministry is spared (when it comes to dishonesty),” he said.

“It’s not because they are poor but there are other factors such as dishonesty, it happens everywhere.”

As Palusalue was trying to respond, Speaker La’auli Leautea Polata’ivao took the floor to explain. “People who break the law should be charged,” he said, adding that E.P.C officials have also been trying their best. As for people who steal electricity, the Speaker said “it’s unfair for them to use it for free while everyone is paying for it.”

Back on the floor, Afualo pointed out that “dishonesty is not the same as desperation.” Palusalue backed his fellow Tautua M.P.

“The cost of living and the cost of electricity are so expensive,” he said. “There are people who have gone back to kerosene lamps, others are using candles. Why?

Electricity is so expensive.” Palusalue reiterated that one of the reasons the price of electricity has become so expensive is due to the $100 million loan taken out to fund the Fiaga Power station. “Now the country is carrying the burden of the loan,” he said.

“And yet the government says when we debate the Budget that the government can afford it. “What’s happening now?

People are suffering in paying for the debt. (What will happen is that) they will return to kerosene lamps, candles.” Acting Prime Minister Fonotoe objected to this suggestion. “How do we bring electricity?” he asked Palusalue.

“How do we make sure they’re working? Do we do it free? We have to have money so we borrow money and the Ministry implement its programmes to make sure the lights work. “Do we do it for free?” In response, Palusalue said: “Not for free, but be considerate. “Be considerate because the lives of some people have gone backwards.”

Palusalue challenged the government to incorporate the loan into the main Budget so that people “don't have to break their back paying for it.” “What’s happening now is that people, business people don't know what to do because the cost of electricity is so expensive,” Palusalue told Parliament. “They cannot afford it. They might as well close (shop), put their hands up.”

Looking at the Minister of Finance, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga, Palusalue said: “Mr Minister of Finance, bring the loan so that the government will pay for it from the budget.” Fonotoe returned to counter Palusalue, saying that the government is “being considerate” according to what people can afford.

“Everything is done through consultation…” Fonotoe said.

“The problem with your consultation is that you are not talking to the people who are suffering,” Palusalue retaliated. At that point, Associate Minister Maualaivao Pat Him took the floor. He cautioned Palusalue against making reference to “business people,” saying he should instead refer “to the feeling among the general public” about the cost of electricity. Faleata M.P., Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi, joined the debate to remind the Speaker that “I see the member has pink eye… you should tell him to leave.”

Leala’s point brought laughter to the house. But Palusalue was not finished.

“I know some hotels who are paying over $10,000 or more in electricity bills in a month and they have no tourists,” he said.

“There are resorts and hotels in my constituency that are suffering.”

This drew Minister Faumuina to the floor. Said he: “The leader of the Opposition is saying there are no tourists and that means they shouldn't be using the electricity. So how can the bill be $10,000?”

Countering the claim that the country is going backwards, Faumuina pointed out that there are over 30,000 households using electricity. “So when we talk about two hundred people involved in meter tampering, that doesn't even amount to half a per cent. Which means it’s an area that the Ministry can work on (to stop).”

Faumuina told Parliament that about 80 per cent of the population are paying the lower cost of electricity, depending on their usage, while the rest are paying the more expensive rate. Palusalue disagreed. He countered the Finance Minister comments, claiming that Samoa has the most expensive electricity rate in the Pacific.

This angered the Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Manu’alesagalala Enokati Posala who demanded that Palusalue provide proof. Siumu M.P., Tuu’u Anasi’i Leota added his voice. “The Opposition leader is complaining about the cost of electricity,” he said. “My advice is for him to go to sleep early to save electricity.”

To which Palusalue responded: “This M.P. only tells jokes. I’ll ignore it.”

On a more serious note, Palusalue also questioned government promises to make greater use of coconut oil and biodiesel. He said these things don't work because he saw a vehicle that had used it at a mechanic shop. The Minister of Environment, Fa’amoetauloa Dr. Faale Tumali’i, immediately objected, demanding proof from Palusalue.

“Stop these campaign speeches, the country is not stupid, they’re listening,” he said.

The Minister then asked the Speaker to demand that Palusalue provide evidence for his claims.

“I thought the Minister wouldn't speak like this,” responded Palusalue.

“There is the C.E.O and his workers - he should ask them to confirm what I’m saying. I won’t go look for it, you look for it yourself.”

At that point, Speaker La’auli ordered Palusalue to stop. He also asked for the claims against coconut oil and the price of electricity in Samoa being the most expensive to be removed from Parliament records. But Associate Minister Le’aupepe Fa’afisi had the last say.

“We all know the leader of the opposition enjoys a pint,” he said.

“Perhaps he got it (claims about coconut oil and the price of electricity) from a pub.”

Parliament continues today.

A teacher, who slapped a student for disobedience, was told by a District Court Judge that with 21 years experience in his profession, he should have known better.

The suggestion came from District Court Judge, Her Honour Mata Tuatagaloa, after hearing the summary of facts about the incident.

Togafau Pelesala, 44, had previously pleaded guilty to the charge of assault.

This was when the matter was first before the Court.

Yesterday, he appeared before Judge Tuatagaloa for sentence.

She convicted and discharged him but ordered him to keep in mind that he now has a record for assaulting a student.

The student’s age was not mentioned.

But he attended Aleipata College where Pelesala taught as a Senior Assistant.

The incident happened on 12 February, 2014.

Pelesala when given an opportunity to speak told the court he had visited the parents of the student involved in the matter.

The boy’s parents had accepted his apology and so have reconciled.

He also offered up an apology to Judge Tuatagaloa and to the court for his action.

“I feel remorseful.” But Judge Tuatagaloa told him there are many ways that he could have penalised the child.

She suggested the student could have been ordered to do hard labour (something that we all had to go through in school), suspension or even expulsion from the college.

His assault of the student means that he had gone beyond his role as teacher.

His responsibilities and duties are to teach, foster and nurture the students.

And when students act inappropriate in school it is their role to advise and correct them but not assaulting them.

Judge Tuatagaloa also reminded Pelesala that as a teacher he should “be patient” with the behaviour of the students.

The Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) of the Ministry of Education, Matafeo Tanielu Aiafi issued a warning yesterday. He said that if fights keep breaking out at school rugby tournaments, they will once again be stopped.

Matafeo confirmed they would take action after a recent outbreak of fights at school rugby events.

“Parents and teachers should work together and find ways to reduce the problem and avoid it from happening,” he said.

“There are also committees that the ministry already selected to look at those ways of resolving such problems.”

Sport was included in the timetable for a reason, he said – but boxing is not one of them.

“There is no such thing as pushing them into sports such as rugby so that they can become very good boxers,” he told Samoa Observer.

His comments were sought after a complaint from a concerned parent, who did not want to be named, but said that rugby tournaments in schools are once again starting fights in school.

The ministry must put a stop to it, said the concerned parent.

Matafeo confirmed that the ministry is taking this matter seriously.

If there are any more schools reported fighting over a tournament like rugby this year “the answer is no more rugby again.”

He said there had not been any direct complaint to the ministry.

“There is no complaint that the ministry received but this is what the ministry believes is right.

“It’s not appropriate for children to fight in school or in public places and I am sure that the parents of these children don’t send them to school to have fights; they were sent to school so that they can have better futures.

“We are all responsible and must work together for the betterment of our children.”

The ministry has previously banned some sports at schools due to fighting at sports events in the past.

One of the most infamous incidents attracted attention from overseas media in 2008 when students threw a Molotov cocktail during one brawl.

Two girls, both innocent bystanders, suffered burns in an incident involving rival students, and one had to be sent to New Zealand for treatment.

Police have handed over a file about the infamous 2012 Faleaitu drug bust shooting – a week after a family went public with their complaints.

“The file from Police relating to the shooting incident at Faleaitu was forwarded to my office on 14 March 2014,” wrote Attorney General, Aumua Ming Leung Wai.

“My office is currently reviewing the file and will liaise with the police on any further matters that need completion.”

Last Friday, Acting Police Commissioner, Fauono Talalelei Tapu, said that the file about the shooting was with the Office of the Attorney General.

The Faleatiu incident resulted in the death of Faleatiu father, Sami Rapi Lelevaga, a matai.

Sami’s aunty Mugi Satui Talimatasi P Faisauvale approached Samoa Observer on 7th March to complain about a lack of police action on the shooting death.

Four police officers were injured in the shooting and Sami was found with a bullet to his head.

Following that incident a group of New Zealand forensics team came to investigate the ballistics at the scene.

Since then Sami’s family has not received any word regarding the matter.

Sami’s wife and children including their family needs closure, including confirmation of findings from New Zealand forensics, Mugi told Samoa Observer.

At the time, Fauono did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Mugi’s complaint.

When Fauono finally did comment, two weeks later, on Friday 21st March, he said the file was with the Attorney General.

Last Friday, Fauono was sympathetic with the family but guaranteed that the matter will have an outcome.

No details of any charges have been released in relation to this matter.

Yesterday, when Fauono was again contacted for a comment on Aumua’s response he was unavailable for comment.

He was “in a meeting”.

Rosabel Chang is the 2014 Top Final Qualifying Exam candidate for the Samoa Institute of Accountants.

Ms. Chang is currently employed by the Ministry of Finance. And the achievement is something she strongly thanks her parents for.

Business couple, Joe and Lina Chang, have always supported their daughter in whatever dreams, goals and endeavours she has set out to accomplish, she said. Of the 28 students that first registered to S.I.A. to take the F.Q.E., guaranteeing their membership in the institute, and the 22 that sat the first test and the 19 who appeared on the second day, Ms. Chang was one of two that successfully accomplished the marks. And yesterday at the Samoa Conference Centre at Sogi at the 2014 Induction Programme her efforts and achievements were acknowledged.

She was awarded the ANZ Trophy for making an 80 per cent passing mark in the exams. And was also presented with a monetary prize. When asked what is next she said she “will see”. Grace Moananu Lesatele employed by the Central Bank of Samoa was the second high achiever.

She was also awarded for her efforts and achievement. To be a member, the F.Q.E. requires candidates to sit two exams of three hours each where their professional competence is tested.

The first exam focuses on Structure of a Profession, Ethics and Current issues and Jurisprudence and the second covers International Accounting Standards and International Standards on Auditing. The pass rate for these exams is 65 per cent.

Others were also awarded and acknowledged for their efforts; including Safai Iosua Selesele employed by Krissy Company who received the Accounting Technicians certificate and Fred Ah To of the Audit Office for Chartered Accountants.

Top national university students for 2013 were also awarded. They were; Faith Ameto Ulugia for Advanced Financial Accounting and Auditing, Jevilene Vili Leleisiuao for Management Accounting and Puali Prince Suhren for Taxation Law.

District Court Judge Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma, during the keynote address, told the audience that he has never felt fear in all his years as a lawyer, or even when he was sworn in as judge.

But when invited to give a short speech at the induction ceremony he became concerned “because I would be surrounded by accountants”.

The ceremony was an opportunity to express happiness because it is when the hardship to achieve this milestone is forgotten. He said accounting is an important knowledge and service.

But like any other profession it had in place guidelines to direct the proper actions required when they were made an accountant.

Like lawyers, doctors and judges – they had taken oaths to serve their duties as lawyers according to the constitution, to conduct their duties well as doctors and with honesty.

Despite the different wordings in these oaths there is one main theme in all of them – “to work with integrity and to serve honestly”.

This was his challenge to the new members. When these are achieved other good things will follow including blessings not only for them, and their families, but also for the country, said Fepuleai.

He also told them that despite being armed with a degree, skills and knowledge to conduct their duties as accountants “not everyone knows everything”.

This is why it is important to ask questions and share when they are unclear. In fact he said many pretend to know it all but continue to serve without proper understanding.

This was serving dishonestly and it meant that they wouldn’t be able to contribute fully and successfully to their duties. “Set high standards and be honest in doing that in any duty you are given and be prepared at all times.”

He also told them to use their knowledge wisely and the opportunity without fear and prejudice.

“Conduct and practice work with integrity [because], regardless of riches and knowledge, at the end of the day all you have is a good name.”

The event was organised and hosted by the Samoa Institute of Accountants.

More than 150 meetings were held between the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and the government in 2013.

That’s one of the facts that came out of the 2014 Annual General Meeting on Monday 24 March at Hotel Elisa.

Outgoing President Namulauulu Sami Leota officially launched the Chamber’s Annual Report for 2013, and spoke to close to 100 members on the Chamber’s achievements for the year.

The President also spoke on the challenges faced by the Chamber, particularly with its limited resources.

“The Chamber, as the main advocacy body for all private sector issues, engaged in over 150 meetings and consultations with government and development partners in 2013 – that’s roughly 4-5 meetings per week.

“This is a big ask considering our resource constraints, but our Secretariat and Executive Council have pulled through despite all the challenges”.

Namulauulu stressed the importance of maintaining a close working partnership with the Government to ensure there is a private sector voice in policy formulation.

“Our Budget Forums continue to pave the way for future public-private dialogue, contributing to improving policy development in Samoa.

The “Chamber had also partnered with the International Trade Centre (I.T.C.) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (M.F.A.T.) to commence work on Samoa’s V.A.G.S.T. commitment under W.T.O. in 2013”, he said, referring to the Value Added Goods and Service Tax and the World Trade Organisation.

In other remarks during his speech about the National Private Sector Organisation (N.P.S.O.), Namulauulu said, “Recovery work post-Cyclone Evan presented real challenges for the business community but I am delighted however to see that Samoa has bounced back stronger, and I am proud to say that the Chamber as the N.P.S.O. provided a uniting force and voice that helped ensure the Private Sector together with the government led the way with the recovery”.

Namulauulu highlighted the growth in the Chamber membership over a five year period.

“From 2010, the membership has grown by over 100 additional members. This is a testament of our work and I do not need to highlight any further the importance of having an umbrella organization and a united voice”.

In concluding his speech, Namulauulu acknowledged the assistance of its members through sponsorship throughout 2013.

“Chamber is funded through your membership fees and with some assistance from the Government of Samoa and development partners, in particular the Pacific Leadership Programme.

“We appreciate members’ sponsorships for members’ meetings, Private-Sector led workshops and events, and school awards.

“It would not be possible to support these without the ongoing support of the membership.”

Following the President’s address, the Executive Council for 2014 was elected.

Klaus Stunzner, Managing Director of Samoa Spare Parts and Vice Chair of the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organization (P.I.P.S.O.), was unanimously elected as the new President for 2014.

Tuala Pat Leota, Managing Director of Isitolo Leota Public Accountant, was elected as Vice President.

Jennifer Fruean of the National Bank of Samoa and Asuao Dennis Williams of Samoa Breweries, were elected as Treasurer and Secretary respectively.

The Samoa Chamber of Commerce Executive Council for 2014 is as follows:

Klaus Stunzner (Jr) (President), Samoa Spare Parts & Accessories Co Ltd

Tuala Pat Leota (Vice President), Isitolo Leota Public Accountant

Asuao Dennis Williams (Secretary), Samoa Breweries Ltd

Jennifer Fruean, (Treasurer) National Bank of Samoa

Peseta Margaret Malua (Elected Council member), Small Business Enterprise Center

Taito John Roache (Elected Council member), Commercial Printers

Petra Chan Tung (Elected Council member), Samoa National Provident Fund Sheree Stehlin (Women in Business Development Inc. Representative)

Samoa Hotel Association Representative to be confirmed following SHA AGM Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters Representative to be confirmed following SAME AGM

Namulauulu Sami Leota (Past President), Federal Pacific Insurance

Sili Sala Epa Tuioti (Past President), KVA Consult

Masoe Norman Wetzell (Past President), Apia Concrete Products

The Siumu district held a special prayer service yesterday to bless and mark the opening of their new primary school building, replacing facilities damaged during Cyclone Evan.

Chairman of the School Committee, Asuao L Mauga, said the service was conducted by Rev. Tu’ia Peseta.

“Groundbreaking was already done at Mulinu’u and from what we believe we need our own special service on our land so that everyone in our district will come together and witness the beginning of our new school building now under construction,” Asuao said.

“It was in 2010 that Siumu made the request to the government and they approved it in2011, and because there were conditions that they were working on that is why it took us years to wait.”

“We finally made it and everyone is really excited.”

The approximate cost of this new school building is $5million with the construction carried out over 18 months by Chinese Company, Hunan Corporation.

He said that the district of Siumu is looking forward to havingbrighter generations of tomorrow to help develop family, churches and the country.

School Secretary Utai Ve’a Leitupo thanked the government of Samoa and China for their assistance so that their young ones can get a good education.

“Having a good education is very vital in today’s world and has always been, there are numerous amounts of reasons and benefits.”

“In my understanding, education basically decides the outcome of their life and decides the outcome of life, because how educated they are controls the decision of tomorrow.”

“When we have good school building we will have better education, today was a day that people of Siumu will always remember.”

Siumu Primary School was one of the government schools affected by Cyclone Evan in 2012, and since then they have been using village houses and the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa hall at Sa’aga for the school.

Employees of Hunan Constructions also blessed the site according to Chinese traditions.

The leader of the Opposition party, Palusalue Fa’apo II, threatened to walk out of Parliament yesterday.

The threat was made during a shouting match with Speaker, La’auli Leuatea Polata’ivao, over Palusalue’s frustrations about how Parliament was being run.

“We’re going to go home now,” Palusalue said. Speaker La’auli retaliated, saying: “It’s up to you if you want to go home.

That’s your right; it’s your right. Here I am trying to calm and explain things, look at Section 44* of the Standing Orders…” Minutes into yesterday’s session, Palusalue could not hold back.

“I feel so sad,” he said.

“We’ve given questions (about issues affecting the country).

“These are not questions from an individual; these are questions from our party, in accordance with Standing Orders Clauses 58* and 59*, which are very clear.”

According to Palusalue, Parliament hardly has time to address these questions, when the section of the Standing Orders he had quoted clearly stipulates they should be discussed.

“The Standing Orders dictate that with new things affecting the country, we have a right to submit questions,” he said.

“This Parliament sitting is three years (old) now and yet our meetings never reach Thursday. Where is the transparency and accountability that we keep singing about?

“Where is good governance, transparent governance and yet when we have submitted our questions they are not part of the Order Paper, as it should be in accordance with Standing Orders?

“Mr. Speaker, this party is full of disappointment when we think about Standing Orders and Parliamentary democratic processes.”Speaker La’auli did not waste time.

“Palusalue sit down,” he ordered. He argued that he has asked Parliament to pardon “how our session is being run and rearranged because of the events happening around us.”

Pointing out that Parliament has 70 reports to get through during this session, the Speaker said that Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi has “made a commitment that this session will only end when all these reports are covered.”

But unforeseen circumstances cannot be avoided, the Speaker said. “We all see what’s happening,” he said.

“We’ve had to rearrange our programme because of what’s happening.

“The first problem is the virus (pink eye), which has impacted on the quorum. Just this morning, about three members of your side came and asked to be excused because of sickness.

“Secondly, the leader of the government is sick. Thirdly, look at the Cabinet seats, how many seats are empty?

How many?

So we have to rearrange where appropriate.”

Speaker La’auli told Parliament that section 44 of the Standing Order gives the Speaker the discretion to rearrange the order of work.“I’ve seen your questions,” he told Palusalue.

“All your questions will be answered when we go through the reports. So what I’m saying is that we have to make changes where appropriate. As I’ve said yesterday, this is not the first Thursday nor will this be the last Thursday.”

Acting Prime Minister, Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo, spoke up in support of the Speaker. He said La’auli was absolutely correct, looking at clause 2 of Section 44 of the Standing Orders. Palusalue, however, was far from impressed. “Don't protect something that’s wrong,” he told the Speaker. “What’s the wrong thing, Palusaue?”

La’auli fired back. As the exchange heated up, Fonotoe rose to speak in support of the Speaker. But Palusalue was not to be outdone. Said he: “The wrong thing is stopping questions from the Opposition. The questions are timely for the government…”

The Speaker immediately ordered Palusalue to: “Sit down, sit down…” That’s when Palusalue snapped. “We’re going to go home,” he threatened. “It’s up to you if you want to go home,” La’auli responded.

“That’s your right; it’s your right. Here I am trying to calm and explain things, look at Section 44 of the Standing Orders…”

Palusalue responded: “So what do you think, this is the first Thursday which the meeting has reached and we’ve submitted our questions a long time ago…”

“Our session reached Thursday last week,” La’auli said. “So where are our questions?”

The Speaker responded: “They are with the appropriate officials. We should prioritise what should be prioritised. Sit down, sit down…” Still Palusalue wouldn't budge.

“The only thing that should be prioritised is the main financial statement, that should be the only priority.”

Which statement he was referring to, he did not say. But the Speaker ordered Palusalue to sit down.

“Don't be rude, we are trying to proceed with our work,” he said.

“There is only one person who dictates our work and that’s what we are trying to do… be considerate as we are also being considerate.

“There have been many times where you’ve been rude and you are still being given the opportunity.

“I’ve already explained why we’ve had to rearrange things but don't say I’m wrong.

Read the Standing Orders. In Section 44 there is a clause allowing the Speaker to arrange the programme to suit the circumstances.

“So who is going to answer and yet the leader of the government is not here?

Are you asking which Minister to answer to the reports when none of them is here? What do you think?”

La’auli said he thought Palusalue “would reconsider his position in accordance with good relations and mutual respect (ava fatafata ma le va nonofo).”

At that point, veteran M.P. and former Speaker, Le’aupepe Tole’afoa Fa’afisi took the floor to tell La’auli that Parliament can see “you’ve made the right decision.”

“Whatever laws are in the Standing Orders, the running of our work is all dependent on you,” Le’aupepe said.

“We want to get through the 70 reports we planned to discuss, that’s our goal.” Turning to Palusalue, Le’aupepe said the country is keeping records.

“The leader of the opposition shouldn't be like that. We don't want to tell you how to do your job (as the opposition leader) but you need to stay calm. We didn't come to answer your questions; we are here to finish our reports.” Le’aupepe’s comments attracted a response from another veteran M.P., who is also a former Speaker, opposition member, Aeau Peniamina Leavai.

“This matter is very simple,” he said. “The only thing this side was worried about is for the House to hear our questions because the opportunity is very rare.”

Aeau said Parliament should have given an opportunity for their questions to be heard. “We know they wouldn't be answered right now… it would be answered later through writing, so (voicing these questions) wouldn't take a minute,” he said.

“Our Standing Orders are clear, everybody can read it and understand it. The only thing is that they should be followed… that's all.”

Palusalue backed his deputy leader. “Mr. Speaker, I’ve just read Section 44,” he said.

“However I will not argue about this matter anymore. The only thing your honour is that with regards to these questions, they are questions that are relevant now in terms of what’s happening in the country.

“If we defer them, then they become useless that’s why now that we’ve got this chance, we are trying….” The Speaker again intervened.

“I get what you’re saying,” he told Palusalue. “If we all go and look at the Standing Orders, we’ll all have different interpretations.

This is not about whose right or wrong, rather it’s about what’s needed to keep the peace and for our work to progress…” The Speaker pointed out that this is the first time Parliament sessions have reached Thursdays.

“Why? It’s because of a request I made to the government to give an opportunity for Parliament to complete its work,” said La’auli.

“This is only the second week and you (Palusalue) are already saying that your questions have been ignored. How can they be ignored when the Clerk of the House is listening, all your questions are here.

“There isn’t a single issue I haven’t considered but things will happen at the appropriate time.”

The Speaker assured that all the Tautua Party’s questions, including the ones about the Chief Auditor and the Officers of Parliament Report, will be answered by the end of this session. When Palusalue returned to the floor, he was calm. “Mr. Speaker, the country is listening and yet you’ve said that I’m rude,” he said.

“I apologise. It is merely an attempt to perform our duty in this House. If I have said something wrong, in our desperation to do what’s right and be transparent, I offer my sincere apologies to you, Mr. Speaker.

“The most important thing is that your side is listening, the country is listening and they can be the judge of what happened this morning.” Prior to the session which started two weeks ago, the government had promised to debate the Chief Auditor’s Report as well as the Officers of Parliament Committee report, which confirmed instances of “corrupt practises” within some government bodies during the session. Since Tuesday last week, not one part of the reports has been mentioned.

A day into the current session, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Maliegaoi was hospitalised for an infected toe nail injury. He has since left for New Zealand with an entourage – including the Minister of Health, Tuitama Dr. Leao Tuitama – for a further check and to recover.

He is expected to return next week. Meanwhile, Parliament has been adjourned until Monday 14 April 2014.

A mother hung on tightly to her baby when the Ambulance they were travelling in was pushed into a nearby ditch at Vaitele yesterday afternoon (pictured).

Neither sustained any injuries.

The vehicle was heading from Leulumoega District Hospital to the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital at Moto’otua so that the woman’s child could receive urgent medical assistance.

The baby, not yet a year-old, was suffering from a severe case of conjunctivitis (pink eye).

She didn’t have time to give her name to the Samoa Observer before she was escorted into the Fire and Emergency Services ambulance after the accident.

But she confirmed they were rushing to the hospital at Moto’otua so that her baby could receive urgent help.

“My baby is suffering from a severe pink eye condition.”

A young man who witnessed the accident from the nearby reservation area said the ambulance had its siren on and was overtaking a red Suzuki Toyota.

The Toyota was signalling into the Vaiteleuta direction at the three corners in front of BOC Gases, said the witness.

The Toyota continued turning inland, hitting the side of the ambulance and pushing it into a ditch located by the side of the reservation.

He was also called over by emergency responders before he could give his name.

Motorists are normally supposed to give way to emergency vehicles by pulling to their own side of the road, not crossing it.

Police and the Fire and Emergency Services were immediately called to the scene of the accident and cordoned off the area.

The change over in management for the slipway at the Satitoa Wharf at Aleipata from the Samoa Ports Authority (S.P.A.) to the Samoa Shipping Corporation (S.S.C.) has meant a $200,000 upgrade.

That comes with a workshop that caters to the engineering needs of vessels that port at the slipway.

Yesterday, as part of S.S.C.’s future development plans, it launched the Pasifika Express.

Asked what this vessel would be used for, Chief Executive Officer of S.S.C., Papali’i Wilie Nansen, said there are plans to have it used for shipping purposes between Samoa and nearby islands of the Pacific.

But he was reluctant to reveal anything further, suggesting that if he tells what these plans are, other businesses might take up the idea.

However, in order for that plan to take off, Papali’i said negotiations with the appropriate people in these nearby islands would have to happen first. Pasifika Express was presented to S.S.C. last year in January from Tokelau.

Before its name change and body upgrade, it was a ferry used by the government of Tokelau as a passenger carrier.

It comes with a cooler that can store frozen goods and it can also be used for transporting dry cargo. The ferry was handed over to strengthen the relationship between the two countries.

Papali’i suggested that one of the possible island countries that the vessel can service could be Tokelau. Following Pasifika Expresses’ launch it was taken out for a trial drive.

An inspector from the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure was also onboard the vessel testing whether it met the required regulations for shipping and transport purposes.

Next week the Lady Samoa II will also be transported to this wharf for inspection to check that it is up to shipping standards.

“So that when these vessels are required for the use of the people of Samoa it meets the required standards for it to be used.”

Papali’i also confirmed that the Satitoa wharf is not currently being used.

But he said it is expected to start services in July this year prior to the Small Island Developing States meeting Samoa is hosting this September.

Following the launch Papali’i also showed where the Engineering workshop is located. This is metres before reaching the slipway.

The workshop includes a machine that can fabricate parts required for servicing vessels such as bolts and can be used to check propeller shafts if they are in good condition and when there is trouble - identify a problem he said.

Servicing facilities at Satitoa are essential, Papali’i emphasised.

When a problem arises with the vessel maintenance and repair can be quickly catered at the wharf.

Having the facilities at Satitoa means there won’t be a need to travel to Apia to fix problems.

Also when there is a break down somewhere “we don’t have to wait for parts from overseas because now we have the workshop and this machine here.”

“The slipway is just a tool to get ships up to dry land but the [engineering workshop] is a support service to conduct required and necessary technical work to ensure the timely repairs of vessels.”

And time is of essence said Papali’i. Especially since these shipping vessels operate around set schedules. A vessel that is not operating and is at stand still does not earn money, he said.

So timely repairs with quality fixtures is vital to ensure these vessels keep operating.

The Satitoa wharf has over the years been a controversial development.

A multimillion project that was initiated to create development in rural Satitoa has turned out to be rarely used, facing criticism from the opposition as a waste of money.

Earlier this year, cabinet ordered control of the wharf facilities to be transferred from Samoa Ports Authority to Samoa Shipping Corporation.

Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Manualesagalala Enokati Posala told the Samoa Observer the government’s overview of the wharf is for (fisheries) investors and for the service to remain available for fishing boats.

He said this was vital especially with the Samoan government’s push for tourism as well as to ensure contact with Tutuila.

The project including the slipway and the wharf was an initiative managed by S.P.A. which continues to operate the wharf but S.S.C. is responsible for the slipway.

The Samoa Shipping Corporation is a limited liability company established in 1974.

Attorney General, Aumua Ming Leung Wai, says that a new Trusts Bill 2014 tightens laws against fraud and loosens secrecy aspects of the country’s offshore finance industry.

“The secrecy provisions under the old Trusts Act are replaced by the confidentiality provisions under clause 80,” said Aumua in an email response to written questions from the Samoa Observer. “It is more in line with international standards set down by OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) and other similar agencies, for example, the Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG/ML).”

Aumua also responded to a question about the urgency shown to get the Trusts Bill 2014 passed through two readings in one sitting.

“The Bill has been in the making for several years,” he said. “It introduces modern trust law provisions that would encourage the continued growth and long term survival of Samoa’s offshore financial centre. “S.I.F.A. has been marketing these new provisions overseas so it is vital that the Act be passed urgently so that Samoa is ahead of its competitors.”

Questioned about the lack of time for debate in Parliament, Aumua said that there “was extensive consultation within the offshore industry and relevant stakeholders.”

The bill combines previous trust laws separately dealing with local and foreign trusts, but Aumua said there were no risks to this approach. “No – it provides clarity as to what rules apply to trusts whether domestic or foreign. The new Act is far more detailed than the previous Act,” he said.

“Having these two different types of trusts to be administered under the Trusts Act pose no risk but in fact provides a better market and position for Samoa in terms of making it more attractive and relevant to the international investor and further diversifying Samoa’s product base and to give Samoa that much needed edge against its competitors in the offshore industry.”

He confirmed that the bill is intended to tighten existing protections against trusts set up for the sole purpose of a scam or “sham”, a word used in the new law. “Yes it does. See Part 2 on Creation and nature of trusts, sections 10 and 12 in relation to validity and enforceability and fraudulent trust or disposition.”

Aumua released the name of the legal company that was involved in the drafting of the bill.

“The Bill’s lead drafter was Lea and White International, a law firm based in Hong Kong that specialises in trust law.” Mark Lea, a partner in the firm, is quoted in the China Offshore news site as referring to a new 2012 trust act, stating that “Samoa has offered wealth managment services for quite some time.

“It's among the first jurisdictions to recognize the mainland China, so its close relationship with China is one of its biggest advantages,” he said.

“Samoa can provide a wide range of solutions, including trusts, mutual funds and special puropose international company. These solutions will all be interesting to Chinese people.”

Samoa has previously been ranked, by the Tax Justice Network in its 2013 Financial Secrecy Index, as the most secretive offshore centre in the world.

However, Aumua indicated that secrecy has not prevented enforcement of existing laws, answering “yes” to two questions about cases taken by the office of the Attorney General against offshore entities.

He did not go into details. Passage of the bill follows a February visit from the Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering, a regional body recognised by the Financial Action Task Force, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, OECD, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Asian Development Bank and the Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units. The low-key visit was not announced publicly until afterwards, via a news release on the group’s site on 5th of March.

The A.P.G. item stated that: “An A.P.G. team comprised of Razim Buksh, Director of Fiji’s Financial Intelligence Unit and the Pacific Islands representative on the APG Steering Group, ‘Aminiasi Kefu, Solicitor General of Tonga and Eliot Kennedy from the APG Secretariat met with Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister (and acting Prime Minister), the Minister of Finance, Chairperson of the Standing Select Committee on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Revenue of Parliament, the Governor of the Central Bank, the Attorney General, the Commissioner of Police and other senior officials in Apia on 26 and 27 February 2014.

The primary purpose of the meeting was to discuss the status of Samoa’s Counter-Terrorism Bill.” The news item did not mention the Trust Bill. Samoa joined the A.P.G. in 2000 and was evaluated in 2001 and 2006, eight years ago.

“The report of the 2006 evaluation was adopted by the A.P.G. at its 2006 Annual Meeting and has been used as the basis of progress reporting by Samoan authorities since. While Samoa has made significant progress since its 2006 evaluation, passage of the Counter-Terrorism Bill is an important step to come into better compliance with the FATF standards,” reads the item.

“During the visit, Samoan Ministers and officials gave a strong commitment to enact the Counter- Terrorism Bill as a matter of urgency. Samoa’s Parliament resumes sitting on 18 March 2014 and it is hoped that the Bill will be passed by the end of March.”

The APG also refers to a separate workshop that was held on Friday 28 February, “to assist Samoa with preparations for its third round A.P.G. mutual evaluation.”

The mutual evaluation team will visit Samoa in November 2014, said the group.

A new educational institute geared to the many unemployed youth in Samoa is about to open its doors.

“What do young people do when they finish school?”

This was a question asked of her parents, Pulotu Arthur and Maretta by young Talei Solomon when she was in Samoa as a Catholic volunteer in the late 1990’s.

The answer she got was that many simply return to their villages.

That answer is one of the reasons the Martin Hautus Institute is now establishing itself in Samoa and will officially open after Easter.

The Institute targets school leavers over 15 and mature people looking for jobs, according to Pulotu.

At the heart of their programme is jobs, says Pulotu, one of the founders and directors.

“A politician was quoted as saying that those who return to their villages may be as high as 1,000 each year.”

In comparison with other tertiary institutes, M.H.I.’s point of difference is that they incorporate a work experience component into their programme with a view to employment at the successful completion of their certificates or diplomas.

Situated at Tiapapata off the Cross Island Road, the Institute is housed in a series of Samoan-style fales, which encompass an office, classrooms, a computer centre, a kitchen and accommodation for Pulotu and Arthur. Plans are in place for further development.

“We bought here in 2007,” said Pulotu, and “have been working on this project over the past years. We have been in contact with the Prime Minister who is very excited about our plans.

He said, ‘We need something like this’ and wrote a supportive letter for us to show to the Minister and C.E.O. at the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture as well as the Corrections Services.

“Maretta wrote up our idea asking for support from business leaders for the work experience and we have approached about 15 of them.

Already we have had very positive feedback from them.” In New Zealand, Pulotu and co-Founder and Director, Maretta say they have had contracts with the New Zealand government for the past 25 years. “Seventy per cent of our students in New Zealand end up in employment or choose to do further studies,” he said.