The Samoa Medical Association (S.M.A) held its 67th Annual General meeting on Thursday.

The opening prayer was conducted by Reverend Elder Situfu Tanielu and the keynote address was delivered by the Patron of the S.M.A, the Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi. The Annual General Meeting ended with the election of the Patron and Vice Patrons and the new Executive Committee for 2014-2015. They are as follows:

Patron: The Head of State of Samoa Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi

Vice Patrons: Afioga Kasiano Leaupepe, La’auli Alan Grey, Komisi Patrick Chan Mow Executive Committee 2014-2015:

President: Dr. Mauinuuese Imo President Elect: Salausa Dr. John Ah Ching Immediate Past President: Leausa Toleafoa Dr. Take Naseri

Secretary: Dr. Litara Esera-Tulifau Assistant Secretary: Dr. Salote Vaai Treasurer: Savaiigaea Dr. Alfredo Adams Executive Members: Uitualagi Dr. Tia Vaai, Tupuivao Dr. Titi Lamese, Misa Faalavaau Dr. Navy Collins

The combined 67th Scientific Seminar hosted by the Samoa Medical Association (SMA) and the Samoa Association of General Practitioners (SAGP) was held on the Friday 30th May 2014.

The theme for the Seminar was “There is no Health without Mental Health”. The theme confirms the strong commitment of the two associations to the mental health cause.

It was a productive seminar bringing together the views of mental health specialists and carers locally and abroad, in addressing and identifying key areas to develop and improve mental health services in Samoa.

The 67th Scientific Seminar concluded with the following recommendations in the hope to improve the quality of Mental Health Services in Samoa.

1. To separate Mental Health from Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the Health Sector Plan 2008-2018 to ring fence funding and resources for Mental Health

2. To develop and implement a Mental Health Strategic Plan aligned with the Health Sector Plan (2008-2018) and to be integrated into the NHS Corporate Plan. The Mental Health Strategic Plan will address all the key areas identified from the seminar such as funding; human resource recruitment, training and retention; provide appropriate infrastructure; strengthen mental health care at all levels from primary to tertiary health care; research; enhance and strengthen partnerships with local and international organizations etc..

3. Mental health patients must be cared for in hospitals, except for extremely exceptional circumstances where prison may be the best place for management. Mental health care services must be provided for all patients that have been transferred to prison.

4. To include substance abuse and alcohol abuse with mental health.

The Samoa Medical Association also acknowledged and congratulated Leota Dr. Lisi Petaia on her achievements as the first Samoan and Pacific Islander to graduate with Fellowship in Psychiatry from the Royal College of New Zealand.

This is indeed a great honour to the Samoa Medical Association and to our country. Fuimaono Karl Pulotu Endemann, a renowned Consultant Psychiatric Nurse Specialist in New Zealand, was also one of the guest speakers for the Seminar.

There may have been many “empty promises” made by foreign investors to develop the island of Taumeasina in the past but the most recent one has proven to have broken that cycle.

From Papua New Guinea, the Lamana Group is making progress at the Taumeasina Island Resort.

The foundation has already been laid out and walls erected.

High Chief of Moata’a, Asi Tuiataga Blakelock told the Sunday Samoan that works are going “smoothly” at the site.

Asi was also happy to say that construction works for the resort have helped the villagers in terms of employment.

“Many people from our village are benefiting from work at the resort,” he said. “We have an estimate of about 150 locals being employed there for the start up work.

“But the company is hoping to employ more people soon as works continue for the next months.”

About 30 percent of the 150 locals employed by the company are from the village of Moata’a.

Asked if the village is getting compensation from Lamana for the land, Asi said no.

“There is nothing like that to pay the village for their work,” he said. “That is the between the Papua company and the government. They (Lamana) are our family…they also want to be Samoans.”

Asi stress that the company is generating employment for the village and they are in full support for their work.

He said the project is expected to go on for another two and a half year.

Another high Chief, Asi Tunupopo Sagagauatasi Keve was also in support.

He said the project is working out really well for them.

“(The project) it’s ahead of schedule,” he said.

“The Prime Minister said he hopes the company will be different and now we see that there work is showing and we are glad.”

Lamana is the third company to have proposed to develop the island.

During the ground breaking in June last year, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said he has lost count of the number “crooked palagis” promising to invest in the country.

On that day Tuilaepa recalled the long history of broken promises made.

“You are probably aware that we have attended many occasions such as this on this very island over the past 40 years and have for those years waited with much anticipation of seeing a hotel or resort being built on Taumeasina,” he said.

“One man came and dug up Taumeasina, he was with one of our local lawyers, and I said to this man, ‘you know, there have been many crooked palagis that have come here to Samoa, do you have money?

“And he said ‘Tuilaepa I have millions’, and then what? He dug sand and sold it and then slowly faded away.”

The total project includes 18 rooms and 25 villas and is estimated to cost $140 million.

The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and the Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia Tamasese were among a host of leaders who attended a special prayer service at the Mulivai Cathedral yesterday evening.

The occasion was a thanksgiving service to begin the official celebration of Samoa’s 52nd Independence Day.

Usually held at the Prayer House at Mt. Vaea, last night’s service was attended by who’s who of Samoa including member of the Council of Deputies, Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II.

Also present was Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament and leaders of government bodies.

Members of the diplomatic corps, friends of Samoa as well as members of the business community were strongly represented.

The service was conducted by the Chairman of the National Council of Churches, Deacon Kasiano Le’aupepe.

Addressing the country, he said that in times like this, it is utterly important for Samoa to pause and give thanks for God’s guidance upon Samoa.

Deacon Le’aupepe reminded that Samoa is founded on God. The Chairman was assisted by Reverend Ma’auga F. Motu.

Last night’s service followed the first official activity of this year’s Independence, which was the fautasi regatta on Saturday. The race was won by Le Tolotolo o Tama Uli from Salelologa.

This morning at 5am, thousands of people are expected at the Malae o Tiafau where the traditional celebration will be held throughout the day. The celebration will be marked by a national holiday tomorrow.

History

Samoa’s independence was not easily achieved. From 1908, with the establishment of the Mau movement, Western Samoans began to assert their claim to independence.

The early beginnings of the national Mau movement began in 1908 with the 'Mau a Pule' resistance on Savai'i, led by orator chief Lauaki Namulau'ulu Mamoe. Lauaki and Mau a Pule chiefs, wives and children were exiled to Saipan in 1909. Many died in exile.

Shortly after the outbreak of World War I, in August 1914, New Zealand sent an expeditionary force to seize and occupy German Samoa.

Although Germany refused to officially surrender the islands, no resistance was offered and the occupation took place without any fighting. New Zealand continued the occupation of Western Samoa throughout World War I.

In 1919, under the Treaty of Versailles, Germany relinquished its claims to the islands.

The Mau movement gained momentum with Samoa's royal leaders becoming more visible in supporting the peoples movement but strongly opposed violence. On 28 December 1929 Tupua Tamasese was shot along with eleven others during a peaceful demonstration in Apia. Tupua Tamasese died the following day, with the advice that no more blood should be shed.

New Zealand administered Western Samoa first as a League of Nations Mandate and then as a United Nations trusteeship until the country received its independence on 1 January 1962 as Western Samoa.

Samoa's first prime minister following independence was paramount chief Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinu'u II.

Samoa was the first Polynesian people to be recognized as a sovereign nation in the 20th century. In 1977, Queen Elizabeth II visited the Samoa during her tour of the Commonwealth.

In July 1997 the constitution was amended to change the country's name from "Western Samoa"

to "Samoa." Samoa had been known simply as "Samoa" in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976.

In 2002, New Zealand's prime minister Helen Clark formally apologized for two incidents during the period of New Zealand's administration: a failure in 1918 to quarantine the SS Talune, which carried the 'Spanish 'flu' to Samoa, leading to an epidemic which devastated the Samoan population, and the shooting of leaders of the non-violent Mau movement during a ceremonial procession in 1929.

In 2007, Samoa's first Head of State, His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II, died at the age of 95.

He held this title jointly with Tupua Tamasese Lealofi until his death in 1963.

A mass to officially open the 150th jubilee of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (S.M.S.M) was held yesterday at the newly opened Mulivai Cathedral.

The celebration united hundreds of old pupils that were taught by the sisters of S.M.S.M.

Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi addressed the crowd.

“On Tuesday last week when the S.M.S.M committee invited me to say something today, I meditated and prayed for the occasion,” he said.

An old student of Marist, His Highness Tui Atua said he has been thinking of a theme to speak on but when he attended an event held at Vailima, he then understood its meaning.

“When the choir sang ‘who shall I see’ I whisper to myself, that is God speaking...the story of Marist and St. Mary’s missionary is a story of glory.”

Bishop Peter Brown from American Samoa led the service.

He said the true meaning of the event was being alive.

“It is the beauty of us living and having the opportunity to celebrate the work of our descendant,” he said.

The service was dominated by old girls and elderly mothers that were taught by the S.M.S.M sisters.

Su’a Fa’asao Kamu from the S.M.S.M society in New Zealand was happy to see her old friends.

“I came all the way from New Zealand for the event so I can see my old classmates,” she said.

“We were all taught by the sisters when we were so much younger.

“Another important thing for me to being here is so I can donate to help development of the work of the S.M.S.M sisters.”

Classmate Maria Tovia of the Nazareth at Lepea was glad to attend the mass.

“Although we live in Samoa but we hardly see our other sisters serving on the other side of the island,” she said.

“I’m glad that we have once again reunited with my sisters from school.”

Another old pupil, Epi Smith is having a great time back at home.

Residing in New Zealand, Ms. Smith said “I’ve been looking forward to the event.

“I’m here now and I finally got to meet with my old friends.”

The celebration continues today with the old pupils gathering to march for the 52nd Independence celebration. Arrival of the society dates back to 1864 in June when two French nuns came to Samoa and started the St. Mary’s School at Savalalo.

They are Sr. Marie Rose and Sr. Marie de la Merci. Another nun, Sr. Marie de la Mesiricorde followed after.

The school started with only 12 girls.

In 1923, the S.M.S.M sisters started the Secondary School at Savalalo as a business and commercial school. It was the first school in the country that had a class above form 2.

All proceeds from the celebration goes towards funding a library for St. Mary’s College at Vaimoso and a computer lab for St. Mary’s Primary at Savalalo.

Three Samoan groups have won a place at the table for “major groups” meeting leading up to member governments at the Small Island Developing States meeting.

The three relatively small Samoan bodies are among 25 non-governmental organisations approved to appear at the September conference are the: Adventist Development & Relief Agency (ADRA) Samoa Loto Taumafai Society for People with Disabilities Incorporated National University of Samoa Approval for their participation was released last week in documents loaded to the conference website.

SIDS organizers said they were “NGOs recommended for accreditation to the third International Conference on Small Island Developing States.”

A note reads that their approval was, “Based on a review of the applications received, the secretariat of the Conference finds that the following NGOs demonstrate work that is relevant to the subject of the International Conference, on the basis of their background and involvement in sustainable development issues, in particular in the process of followup to the Barbados Programme of Action and the Mauritius Strategy for Implementation, and in accordance with the provisions contained in part VII of ECOSOC resolution 1996/31.”

Samoa also has representation on the Major Groups and other Stakeholders Steering Committee in the form of Nele Leilua, representing SUNGO.

Not everyone who applied was approved to attend the major groups meeting.

Five were rejected outright. A Spanish language organisation, Agenda Ciudadana por el Desarrollo y la Corresponsabilidad Social (Citizens Agenda for Development and Social Stewardship) were not approved, along with Changemakers-Sierra Leone, Sudanese Nation Development Organization, the USA Refugees & Immigrants, and Verdant Health Services.

Their rejection was explained as being, “Based on a review of the applications received, the secretariat of the Conference finds that the following NGOs either do not demonstrate work that is relevant to the subject of the International Conference, on the basis of their background and involvement in sustainable development issues, in particular in the process of follow-up to the Barbados Programme of Action and the Mauritius Strategy for Implementation; or are not established in accordance with the provisions contained in part VII of ECOSOC resolution 1996/31.”

A further 12 organisations were not considered by the SIDS secretariat for various reasons, including their being government organisations, not non-governmental organisation.

These were the Asabe Shehu Yar Adua Foundation, Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication, Barinu Institute For Economic Development, ECCO2 Corp, Ethiopia Change and Development Association, Freann Financial Services Limited, La Brique, Liberian United Youth for Community Safety and Development, Policy Research, Provincia di Potenza, Soluciona, and the World Welfare Association.

The secretariat of the Conference did not evaluate the submissions because “they were received from either: (a) government entities; (b) NGOs already in consultative status with ECOSOC, or those that were accredited to previous conferences on the sustainable development of the Small Island Developing States, held in Barbados and Mauritius; or (c) entities that are not eligible for accreditation with the United Nations.”

At least three of the applicants not considered were from Africa, which is neither small, nor an island.

The Major Groups Forum is one of four events happening the in the lead up to SIDS.

Dates for the four events are: Youth Forum, 28 August 2014 Major Groups Forum, 29 August 2014

Renewable Energy Forum, 30 August 2014

Private Sector Forum, 30-31 August 2014

Meanwhile, just two nongovernmental organisations will take part in what the SIDS secretariat is describing as “side events” to the main conference.

That became apparent yesterday with the release of a Preliminary Programme Of Side Events, a day after the expiry of a 31 May 2014 for the side events.

The two groups are the Initiative for an International Renewable Energy Agency, and Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, an organisation uniting French speaking countries.

As well as major groups and side events, there will also be events held parallel to the main conference.

Requests for these events are to be received by 30 June this month.

The Samoa College class of 1991 to 1994 opened their Smart Classroom Project at their old school last Friday afternoon.

This includes a projector, D.V.D. player, white board, printer, flat screen T.V. and other maintenance work in order to help the students with their daily studies.

The equipment will help students keep up with rapid changes in technology.

The President of the class of 1991-1994, Tuiloma Bismark Tamati, said that even though it’s been 20 twenty years since they left the college, they still want to give back to Samoa College.

“Hopefully this project will help and will be put into great use for the benefit of our students here in Samoa College.”

Principal of Samoa College, Papali’i Reupena Rimoni, said that the “mission of the college is to provide a quality learning environment which meets the needs and encourages the full development of every student.

“On behalf of the deputy principal, staff and students of the college may I extend to you our sincerest gratitude and heartfelt thanks for the kind assistance in the form of this smart room for the college.

“Also, special thanks to families, husbands and wives who have also contributed enormously through their support.”

“A number of you have kids here at the college and it is our hope that your contribution this morning will motivate and inspire them to value education by being committed and determined to achieve pursued goals.”

Samoa stopped to honour the past yesterday when it celebrated its 52nd Independence Day at the Malae o Tiafau, Mulinu’u.

As the flag of freedom was proudly hoisted, the country was reminded of “our forbears’ struggle for independence,” one that involved “taunts and condescension of disbelievers and doubters.”

The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, said the doubters always said that “Samoa is small; Samoa is poor; Samoa does not have the necessary cadre of leaders.”

“But we have come a long way,” he said.

With those words, thousands of people gathered in front of the Parliament house at Mulinu’u to commemorate Samoa’s 52nd Independence.

They came, sang, danced and they celebrated.

People of all ages came from all over the country to showcase their national pride. Many of them had been queuing up Mulinu’u since four in the morning to prepare for the parade.

Adding a special touch to this year’s Independence are the hundreds of former and present St. Mary’s students who are gathering to mark the 150th anniversary of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (S.M.S.M.) this week.

There are a number of other gatherings being held this week, including the celebration of Avele College’s 90th birthday and a Samoa College reunion.

At Ti’afau yesterday, New Zealand Prime Minister, To’oolesavili John Key was among the few guests from overseas who travelled afar for the occasion. He was joined by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and special guests for the event.

The celebration kicked off with the raising of the flag by the member of the Council of Deputies, Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II.

His Highness Tui Atua then addressed the nation.

“Today and each year we celebrate independence with pride and confidence,” he said. “Why should we celebrate where we are today and how we got here?

“Because we have shown ourselves and our international supporters that we are a properly functioning democracy, with sound financial management systems and we take the rule of the law seriously.

“Evidence of this international recognition can be found not only in the recent approval by our Australian and New Zealand partners for continued substantial budgetary support, but also by the United Nation’s decision to hold the S.I.D.S. conference in Samoa this September.”

The Head of State said that “these are significant endorsements of confidence in Samoa as a leader in the Pacific and in our democratic, financial and resource management systems.

“It tells us that the world has confidence in our good sense and judgment.”

More than thirty groups including schools from Savai’i and Upolu, organisations, public and private bodies took part in the parade.

They were led by the Police band.

A special Independence luncheon was hosted by the government at the E.F.K.S. Hall. This was followed by traditional entertainment at Ti’afau, featuring a group from Iva, Savai’i, Falefa and Pagopago.

The celebration closed with the presentation of awards and a speech by the Co-Chairman of the Independence Committee and Minister of Women, Community and Social Development, Tolofuaivalelei Falemoe Lei’ataua.

The country will continue to celebrate today with a national holiday.

Samoa celebrated another milestone yesterday, reaching its 52nd Independence birthday.

The parade yesterday filled with students, public volunteers, workers, and representatives from around the world.

“It’s a day for the family spirit,” said Lafaitele Aiga Esera, former principal of Avele College.

“There’s a lot of strength in today so that’s why, uniform or not, I’ve got to join in because the spirit is more important, unity and getting together as a family because Avele is more than a school it’s a family.”

Ms. Esera said that this year was a great celebration and seemed more coordinated for everyone to take part in.

“It helps a lot to create relationships and build something that the current generation can pass on to the next generation,” said Ms. Esera.

“Marching is more or less a celebration of the courage, work and sacrifices our ancestors had given, because it is not easy fighting for independence.

“It’s shows appreciation to our ancestors for them choosing God as a firm foundation for our country.”

Uluolefa Leofo, of the Manumalo Baptist School, said that, “I feel very grateful because it’s a celebration of our freedom.

“It’s an opportunity for many of us Samoans living now to take a look back at our ancestors and the struggles that they went through just for us to be independent.”

Such was the strength of the occasion, people from other cultures also felt inspired while marching for the independence celebrations.

Giob Titus, from Papua New Guinea said, “I enjoyed today because it is my first time and I got to know a lot of the Samoan people.”

Attending the Australian Pacific Technological College (A.P.T.C.), Ms. Titus said that it was a milestone to attend the official march of Samoa’s 52nd Independence Day.

“We really appreciate this very big event especially now that we’ve actually participated in one of Samoa’s events that trace back to their cultural roots”, she said.

“It’s an honour and I want to go back and share this new experience with my family and friends back in P.N.G.”

Like previous years, thousands gathered at the lawn at Mulinu’u for the occasion.

Fa’amanuia Ama was impressed with the turnout.

“I give credit to those people who wake up early in the morning to support our independence day,” he said.

“Even though they are just walking on the road but it’s showing their respect, commitment and sacrifice as our ancestors did to be free.

“It brings good memories from those days.”

Mr. Ama did have one concern. He said the programme seems to have been shortened.

“The spirit of independence is still here but it’s not the same,” he said. “Everything seems to have been crammed in.

“I think the government should reconsider the programme for the next independence.”

Independence Day is not just for locals. Its for tourists too.

As Samoa celebrated its 52 years of Independence yesterday, among the thousands of people in town were tourists.

One Kiwi, Anne Marie Noble, arrived with a team of colleagues from the Ministry of Education, and some partners.

“I was just amazed at how so many people have really made today very special,” she said. “This is the first time I’ve been here and it’s just amazing that I am able to witness your country’s celebration.”

She also said that the people of Samoa should be really proud to be citizens of this country because there is so much to witness and to be remembered in times like these.

“This is my first day in Samoa, and I’m sure I have picked the right time for vacation, and it’s because I wanted to know how the people celebrated their country’s Independence Day and now I am here and to be honest words cannot express how amazed I am,” she said.

Another tourist from Auckland New Zealand, John Houston, also shared a similar feeling.

“I was just gobsmacked when I saw so many people even the elderly people they have come so far to witness this one day event.

“I wish it was a whole week event but I guess one day is an unforgettable moment for me and my wife.

“This is the day that we will never forget, the people of Samoa have so much pride in their culture and tradition, and, to compare with overseas, we are so different.

“Being an independent country is one of the most important events here in Samoa, which is why my wife and I have decided to come and witness this special day, he said.

“Not only that but also those small businesses around the area, the smell of the barbeque, and the traditional Samoan food - it’s just amazing.

“There is so much to see and witness and we are only here for four days so we are going to make the most of it.

“So Happy Independence Day Samoa – cheers!

There are nine of them who have travelled from New Zealand to witness Samoa celebrating its Independence Day.

They all work at the Ministry of Education in Auckland and for some of them this is the first time they have been here in Samoa.

They told the Samoa Observer that they are not here for work but to celebrate together this special event.

Small Island Developing States Conference (S.I.D.S.) There is no doubt about it. New Zealand is committed to help Samoa host the S.I.D.S. conference even though it will cost New Zealand millions, according to To’oolesavili.

In an exclusive interview with the Samoa Observer yesterday, To’oolesavili John Key talks to Chief Reporter, Sophie Budvietas, about the Small Island Developing States Conference, Budget Support, Immigration and Tourism and how Samoa and New Zealand can build on the foundations laid for a better future because of the unique history between the two countries.

“We don’t exactly know but it could be as much as $10 million NZ dollars so $20 million tala,” he said. “But it will depend a bit on how much we can recoup and various other issues. It certainly wont be less than five and it probably wont be more than 10 million NZ dollars, 10 to 20 million tala.”

So what is this money being spent on?

“Partly, it is the cost of refurbishing the various facilities that were built for the South Pacific Games, because they have different needs and uses for the S.I.D.S. conference,” he said.

“And the boat is an underwrite from the New Zealand Government. So the issue there is that obviously if people use the boat, there is a form of cost recovery.

“But…of course there is a risk that they wont get maybe exactly the right numbers.

It might be in which case New Zealand just picks up the tab.”

He said it was common for cruise ships to be used at events where the host countries faced accommodation challenges.

“The theory would be is if they use the ship that they’ll pay as if they would pay for a hotel room,” he said.

“So we get some recouping of the costs, but in reality we have to pay quite a lot more to get the ship here because they take it out of circulation and it is for a small number of days.

“So I don’t think we should be crossing our fingers that we will be getting all of our investment back.”

Looking at conference security, according to a New Zealand High Commission spokesperson. New Zealand Police have been working with Samoa to help it deliver a security plan, as well as motorcade training.

“New Zealand is also providing technical assistance across a range of areas including centralised accommodation booking, customs support, aviation security, logistics and policy support, maritime safety and quarantine,” the spokesperson said.

“Up to 100 New Zealand Police and specialist N.Z.D.F. (New Zealand Defence Force) personnel, including 50 New Zealanders of Samoan descent, will also be deployed during the conference to bolster Samoa’s security needs for the conference.

“So we are providing I think about 50 police offices that will come up and provide support to the local police force,” To’oolesavili said.

“They will have the lead but New Zealand is more than happy to work with them. “There is a very close working relationship between the Samoan Police Authority and the NZ police force.” According to the Spokesperson through the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, New Zealand is also helping Samoa develop a S.I.D.S. Village in the Conference Centre, in conjunction with the Samoa Chamber of Commerce. “Which will be used to showcase the products and destinations of Small Island Developing States, with a particular focus on Samoa and the Pacific,” the spokesperson said.

Budget support

Despite the recent discovery that the Ministry of Finance had broken its own law - the Public Finance Management Act 2001, To’oolesavili said New Zealand would not pull its $1 million in budget support to Samoa.

“I don’t think so,” he said. “I mean it is ultimately the High Commission along with the NZ authorities in that particular look at how money is spent and how it is accounted.

“I mean we take very seriously our responsibility to the New Zealand taxpayers and make sure that money is spent appropriately and can be accounted for.

“But I think our response would rather be to see greater levels of transparency and disclosure rather than cut funding.”

He said New Zealand and Samoa have a special relationship over the past 100 years and that his Government had a duty of care to our islands.

“Everything from the occupation right through to the Friendship Treaty,” he said. “We feel quite a duty of care when it comes to Samoa.

“And there is nearly 150,000 Samoans living in NZ so there is quite a lot of domestic interest in New Zealand.

“We acknowledge that in many countries that we give aid some of the accounting isn’t absolutely perfect but we are constantly working to improve that.”

Immigration To’oolesavili also revealed that his government is looking at ways to help Samoa meet its immigration quota.

Last year a lack of jobs in New Zealand was blamed for the 1,100 quota not being met, however To’oolesavili says they are taking steps to make the fulfilling of this quota easier.

“Well we have been looking at that issue because I think that numbers are approximately 1,100 people per year,” he said.

“And you are right, in recent times they have struggled to fulfill that quota.”

He said while there were a variety of reasons for this quota not being filled, one of the main ones was that a person needed to have a job before they came to New Zealand to be granted residency.

“So (there’s) the challenge of actually getting a job before they are actually in country,” he said.

“So we have been having a look to whether we might be able to make changes to allow them to fill the quota and make it a little bit easier.

“Obviously we need to manage issues of people being over stayers because we don’t want to send the wrong signals.

“But we think it’s possible to make improvements, which would be beneficial to Samoa.”

Talking about Labour's new immigration policy, To’oolesavili dismissed his oppositions claims that any issues with the number of people who migrated to New Zealand.

He says Labour's policy to restrict immigration will essentially impact on family reunification, which he thinks is wrong.

“Because if someone comes to NZ as either a worker under the friendship treaty or a skilled migrant to not be able to bring their family seems very unfair and quite disruptive,” he said.

Recently the Labour Leader David Cunliffe said his party wanted to cut migration numbers, but he did not say by how much.

Labour’s immigration spokesman Trevor Mallard says Samoa is unlikely to be affected by any potential restrictions to migrants under a Labour Government.

To’oolesavili however says for the most part the number of people coming to N.Z. has been very consistent over the last six to 10 years.

“What changes and why the net migration numbers are a little stronger is the number of New Zealanders who are no longer leaving and going to Australia,” he said.

“So under the previous government about 35,000 kiwis a year left to go to Australia, now those numbers are down at about three or four thousand.”

“So our view is these things go in cycles.”

He said net on net New Zealand has increased its population because of migration by about 9,000 people a year.

“So that is hardly challenging for a country of about four and a half million people in as much space as Great Britain.”

Tourism To’oolesavili said New Zealand’s $20 million investment in Samoa’s tourism sector was a worthwhile investment for his government.

New Zealand pledged almost $40 million tala to over a five-year period three years ago.

“There will always be some investment that fails,” he said. “And some of it is microfinance so that very, very small amounts of money that might prove to be unsuccessful.

“Or you have had natural disasters here so anything from cyclones through to obviously the tsunami.

“You will have a natural disaster that will just deter people from coming for a while.

“Cyclones for instance will sometimes have quite long term impacts on tourist flows because people are just a bit nervous.

“But that is about rebuilding confidence and making sure the infrastructure is there to support it.

“I don’t think we would ever claim that every dollar that we spend is going to be successful.

“But on the other side of the coin it is about the long term contribution.” To’oolesavili, who is also New Zealand’s Tourism Minister, says this long term contribution goes towards building long term sustainability for employment.

“So I think if you look at somewhere like Samoa, and its probably true of Tonga and Fiji and Vanuatu other countries in the Pacific we think they broadly have three strands to the economic development,” he said.

“One is food production so fisheries and agriculture obviously the second is without a doubt tourism and third is sort of a form of manufacturing that they can undertake here.

“So our view is if you want to stabilise the populations of the Pacific then there has to be jobs that are created.

He said New Zealand places great importance on the tourism industry, highlighted by the fact that the Prime Minister of the day would take on the portfolio.

To’oolesavili said there was a significant global demand for tourists, but that to cater for them Samoa needs to look at out markets, accommodation and flight connectivity.

“One of the long term things I think is that Samoa itself will need to work out what sort of strategy does it want to have,” he said.

“And there is a lot of different things you need; obviously the infrastructure so places like where we are now To Sua trench is a great example of a unique example you can market.

“ You need accommodation and you need flight connectivity, that's really the big issue.

“One of the things I think with Air New Zealand at the moment is that the flights, and I think that it is true of Virgin as well, but the flights are not at the most convenient time “A lot of the departure flights are at 2 o’clock in the morning and very unsociable hours like that.

“So one of the things we are going to continue to work on is to see whether Air New Zealand will have better times and better services.

“ They have also announced yesterday that Air NZ is buying 16 new airbus aircraft, which they will take delivery of between 2017 and 2019 and it costs 1.6 billion but they intend to use those on the pacific including Samoa.”

When asked if he thought the 2011 Rugby World Cup was a contributor to the decline in Samoa’s visitor numbers, he said no.

“Look it depends, my guess is actually in terms of the rugby world cup it was quite a specific audience that came to NZ for that and it was from really only places like the UK and Australia that actually had big numbers.

“I mean there may be people who say I will go to NZ for the rugby world cup and not come to Samoa on a holiday there may be a degree of that.”

He suspects that given it was in 2011 the bigger impact would have been the post-tsunami here.

“So it takes some time to regroup and rebuild,” To’oolesavili said.

“I mean the tourism development here has been slower than for instance a place like Fiji.

“But I think deliberately so, that is not a criticism it is just they have taken a more cautious view and probably a slightly more authentic view of what they want tourism to look like.

“If you go to Fiji its typically more dominated by big international chains that run resorts; people go to the resorts and their experience of Fiji is that they use a bit of the local Fijian language and maybe have a cultural show.

“Samoa has taken a more authentic view to that and actually there is a lot of credibility in that strategy.”

A hundred and fifty years is sure worth a party.

And that’s exactly what hundreds of former and present St. Mary’s students, teachers and supporters of the school brought to the streets of Apia during the official parade to celebrate the milestone.

They came in different forms, styles and colours.

There was something for everybody. From Disneyland, Tasmania and all different parts of Australia to the land of the mighty All Blacks.

The Old pupils of St. Mary’s and Marist, educated by the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM), paraded with pride and joy on Beach Road.

Great grandmothers, grandmothers and mothers of different ages relived their youthful years through a variety of humorous entertainment.

The Head of State and former Marist student, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi led the march.

He was followed by her Highness, Masiofo Filifilia Tamasese and hundreds of current and old pupils of St. Mary’s.

Rita Matafeo, of the S.M.S.M Committee, paid tribute to a school that has raised many national leaders.

“I would say to Samoa, there goes your Prime Minister,” she said. “There goes your Chief Justice (Patu Tiava’asue Falefatu Sapolu) and there goes your parliament.

“Those are the seeds planted by S.M.S.M.” In delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi announced a $20,000 gift from the government.

The Prime Minister also promised that the long overdue proposal from church schools to have their teachers paid for by the government, would be looked at.

“Every year the government gives $6million to assist church schools,” he said. “It’s been done for the past years and the government is also helping by providing free fees for all schools.

“God will also show the way to pay for your teachers if not tomorrow, in another 500 years that will happen.

“We are tested in those ways if we still have people like Sr. Marie de la Merci and Sr. Marie Rose. But that will be discussed this afternoon by Cabinet.”

There were cheers from the crowd when the Prime Minister announced the plans.

“Those are the seeds planted by S.M.S.M.” In delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi announced a $20,000 gift from the government.

The Prime Minister also promised that the long overdue proposal from church schools to have their teachers paid for by the government, would be looked at.

“Every year the government gives $6million to assist church schools,” he said. “It’s been done for the past years and the government is also helping by providing free fees for all schools.

“God will also show the way to pay for your teachers if not tomorrow, in another 500 years that will happen.

“We are tested in those ways if we still have people like Sr. Marie de la Merci and Sr. Marie Rose. But that will be discussed this afternoon by Cabinet.”

There were cheers from the crowd when the Prime Minister announced the plans.

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New Zealand’s Labour M.P., David Shearer has accused that country’s Prime Minister, To’osavili John Key, of using his Pacific Mission as a campaign platform to pimp for the Pacific vote in breach of the trip's apolitical nature.

Mr. Shearer was in Samoa on the Pacific Mission with To’osavili on Monday and Tuesday. While in Apia, To’osavili had repeatedly claimed Labour's plans to rein in immigration will affect the Pacific Islands and extolled National as better for Pacific Islanders.

Mr. Shearer said it was inappropriate to use the trip and opportunities such as a press conference with Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, to comment on another party.

"It should be an apolitical NZ Inc trip to the Pacific, and he is using it to raise these issues,” said Mr. Shearer.

"It is fair enough in New Zealand, but we are all here to make the best possible impression on the Pacific that we can."

He said To’osavili should have declined to answer such questions "rather than extrapolate and put a political spin on it".

"He doesn't even understand what Labour's policy is. We have agreements with the Pacific, and those aren't going to be changing."

The mission is taking place just four months before the September election and To’osavili invited representatives of all political parties on it.

Mr. Shearer was selected to represent Labour, others include Green co-leader Metiria Turei and United Future leader Peter Dunne.

To’osavili first spoke about Labour's policy during a press conference with Samoa's Prime Minister Tuilaepa after Tuilaepa said the restrictions would be "detrimental to New Zealand".

He has also said he hoped his chiefly title would help National secure more of the Pacific vote and that Pacific Islands Minister, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga had been telling Samoa's politicians that the achievement of Pacific Islanders in New Zealand schools was improving under National.

To’osavili downplayed how much the trip could help National's chances among Pacific Islanders in New Zealand.

"It doesn't hurt. It demonstrates that we are connected to their country of origin. But in the end they're more likely to be focused on policies we have domestically."

He said Labour's stance was double-speak.

"They want to have it both ways. They want to tell a group of people who might hear a certain message 'we'll be tougher on migration' but actually for the people who are migrants and voting for them, they want to tell them everything is okay."

Mr. Shearer said Labour was not proposing any changes that would affect the Pacific, but there were other areas immigration could be tightened "and that is right for New Zealand".

Tsunami-ravaged village uses visit to thank NZ.

Five years after the tsunami that took his wife, Tui, and wrecked the resort business the pair ran, Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale has moved back down to live on the seafront of Poutasi village where he is paramount chief.

On Tuesday, he welcomed To’osavili to the village for an 'ava ceremony and a visit to the village's small Peace Garden to lay flowers on his wife's grave.

Mr. Key was made an ali'i (high chief) of the village a few days after the 2009 tsunami when he returned to the village he had admired on his first visit only a few months earlier.

On that first visit, he saw the waterfront where most of the villagers had homes. This time, the fale fono had been rebuilt on the waterfront but the homes were gone.

To’osavili ventured further up the slopes away from the shore where new homes now house the villagers.

But Tuatagaloa said he had rebuilt his home next to the sea.

"And I'm hoping the rest of my village will slowly start moving back."

Tuatagaloa said the visit was a chance to thank New Zealand for its help, "in money and in kindness".

Poutasi had a lot of its people on the seasonal labour scheme, and had help from the Tindall Foundation and Unitec in establishing a market garden.

Ahead of the official opening of its 90th birthday celebration this weekend, the Avele College Old Pupils Association (A.C.O.P.A) paid tribute to some of the school’s pioneers yesterday.

One of them was the first Head Boy, the late Anapu Solofa, who led a group of 23 students to cut the grass at Avele so that the school could be built.

This was back in 1923.

In paying tribute to the late Anapu, A.C.O.P.A visited Sa’anapu yesterday where he is buried.

Reverend Ma’afala Koko, who conducted a prayer service yesterday, said Avele College has come a long way.

“Today, we shall never forget the love of God through the school, and also the people who have worked so hard in the building up of this college,” he said.

“Avele, let us not forget those who worked so hard to start this school.

“This morning, we are here to remember the first leader of the college, Anapu Solofa. He led the twenty boys in cutting the grass to start this school and they experienced hardship back in those days because they wanted the children of today to have a bright future.

“So as we are celebrating Avele College’s 90th Anniversary this week, let us not forget those who fought so hard at the beginning of the school.”

The late Anapu Solofa became the first Head Boy of the College in 1924 when it was officially opened on 12 June 1924.

In 1958, Avele became an Agricultural College for the Pacific Islands. At the time, boys from Rarotonga, Niue, Tuvalu, Tokelau and American Samoa came here to study.

In 1972, the control of Avele College was handed back to the Ministry of Education when the University of the South pacific was founded.

Tuiā Pu’a Letoa, the Chairman of the 90th Anniversary Committee, said the journey has not been easy.

“It has not been an easy ride to build Avele College,” he said.

“In 1987, the school was closed because the government at the time said that the National University of Samoa was to be built at the area.”

However, the old pupils of Avele College fought hard for the college to remain open. The old pupils went on strike to stop the school from closing at the time.

It was around that time when the late Tofilau Eti Alesana said that if the H.R.P.P won the election, they would re-open Avele College.

They did in 1988 and Avele College was reopened.

The celebration of Avele College’s 90th anniversary starts today with the registration of former students. This will be followed by an official opening tomorrow at the end of parade on Beach Road.

Manu Samoa Head Coach, Stephen Betham, is certain about one thing for todays Pacific Nations Cup (P.N.C) clash against Tonga at Apia Park.

“You can expect a physical game,” he said. “You can expect the Manu Samoa boys to give it a hundred and ten per cent. It means a lot for us to play in front of our people and we are not going to take it lightly. We’re going to give it everything we have.”

Betham was speaking during a media conference held at the Millennia Hotel yesterday to announce their starting squad.

“We all know as a group that these are the last two games we play in front of the country before the World Cup. So we are willing to give it all, our best.”

The sentiments were echoed by Manu Samoa Captain, David Lemi.

“I believe the Tongans are preparing for a physical game,” he said.

“In that regard, we’ve been working hard with the coaching staff to counter Tonga. We don't take Tonga lightly, as with any game between Samoa and Tonga, you can always expect it to be physical and confrontational.

“But there is a lot of passion and pride among our group about putting on that blue jersey and we are looking forward to getting out there and giving it our all.”

With todays test match likely to be the last for a number of senior players at Apia Park, the occasion is not lost on playmaker, Tusiata Pisi.

“It’s always great to come back to the homeland and play in front of our people,” he said.

“I think these next two or three years will probably be the best years of my career. As a ten, you tend to develop as you get older. So it’s very important for us as a group to put up a very good performance at home, not just for our team but for our people.”

Pisi said the test matches in Apia, including the game against Italy next week, are extremely important looking at the Rugby World Cup next year.

“Each individual will be looking forward to putting their hand up before the World Cup and putting in a good performance,” he said.

For coach Betham, the first mission is to beat Tonga today. And he knows they are up against it.

“We haven’t had a lot of time to put together a team. Some players have only just arrived and so with this selection, it wasn't an easy task."

“We had to take the welfare of the players into consideration, especially the ones that have just played in the European Cup finals.”

That includes star halfback, Kahn Fotuali’i, who will be on the bench today.

A notable omission, however, is local favourite and flanker, Maurie Fa’asavalu.

“Maurie has a knee injury,” Betham explained.

“Maurie was honest with our technical staff, he feels that he wasn't a hundred per cent and we’ve made the decision based on that.

“We’re blessed in the sense that in the loose forward department, we’ve got a lot of quality players there. So we’ve picked the players who are a hundred per cent ready to play.”

Betham said he appreciates Fa’asavalu’s honesty.

“This is exactly what we want as we are working towards moving our team to the future. It’s not about yourself, it’s about the team and that’s what we’re trying to instil into every player.”

The starting team also sees Kane Thompson back in the fold, but not at the back of the scrum where he had been playing at the Chiefs.

“Kane and Daniel Leo are the heart of the line-outs. So at the end of the day we’re picking the squad based on what will benefit our team.”

Coach Betham said the squad chosen for today is the best team available.

“It’s not easy to put a team together from players who are playing all sorts of different rugby around the world,” he said.

“In the UK, the game there tends to be forward oriented whereas in the Southern Hemisphere, as we’ve seen with Super Rugby, it is a very fast paced game. But the most important thing for us though is to profile our players ahead of the Rugby World Cup.”

In that regard, the Head Coach is extremely grateful about the input from Super rugby coaches, Namulauulu Alama Ieremia, of the Hurricanes and Tom Conventry, of the Chiefs.

“Alama and Tom have contributed tremendously in terms of the technical side,” he said. “They’ve done very well to lift our preparations in terms of tactical awareness among players.

“It is no secret that these guys are at the top echelon as far as coaching professional rugby goes. So we’re very happy to have them.”

As for today, Betham is quietly confident.

“We’ve done our review on Tonga,” he said. “We’ve looked at their strengths and weaknesses and we’ve prepared accordingly.”

But how does the smallest man on the field feel about captaining the Manu Samoa in taking on a team of giants?

“I don't look at the size,” Lemi said. “I do my work as a player. I don't care what size it is, I’m just keen to get out there, do my part and help my brothers on the field on Saturday.”

Manu Samoa and Ikale Tahi had to settle for an 18 all draw yesterday during their Pacific Nations Cup clash at Apia Park.

The result was not the best way for the Manu Samoa to end a week of celebrations in Apia but it wasn't the worst either. Tonga played so well they were unlucky not to have scored a very famous victory at the home of Manu Samoa.

Coach Stephen Betham and his team though would be kicking themselves for letting victory slip from their grasp.

Seconds away from full time, Manu Samoa held a narrow, 18-15 lead. But then disaster struck.

With Tonga hot on attack and with Samoa down to 14-men, replacement lock, Daniel Leo, was penalised by referee, Wayne Barnes, for taking out a Tongan player during the line out.

The penalty gave Fangatapu Apikotoa the opportunity to level the score.

He did not miss. Although Samoa tried valiantly during the dying seconds, they were bundled out centimetres from Tonga’s tryline and that was the game.

“Obviously we’re disappointed not to have won especially in front of our people,” Captain David Lemi said. “But full credit to Tonga, they played well and it was a tough game. It could’ve gone either way.”

Lemi said there were a number of things that they could’ve done better and that’s what they would work on this week, ahead of their next assignment against Italy on Saturday.

“We’ll learn from this,” he said. “Meanwhile, I take my hat off to our boys, it was a hard game and there are certain things we’ve already identified that we need to work on. We'll go back to the drawing board and take it from there.”

Lemi’s Tongan counterpart, Nili Latu said they felt they had the edge over Samoa.

“We wanted to win to be honest,” he said. “But at the end of the day, look at the records, we’ve been here so many times and have never won against Samoa."

“So we’re happy with the draw.”

Like Lemi, Latu said there are lots of areas to work on. “Most of the boys are professionals and we wanted to raise the level of our game. For us, we could’ve won the game."could also have gone the other way so we are really happy with the boys today. This is just the start.”

Tonga dominated the early exchanges and also had the first opportunity to put points on the board through a penalty conversion. Latiume Fosita missed.

Five minutes into the game, Manu Samoa had a good attacking opportunity only for Fautua Otto to drop the ball centimetres from the try line. A penalty opportunity for Tusi Pisi was not converted.

Twenty five minutes into the game, Tonga found a gap down the right side of the field, sending wing, Otulea Katoa to corner for the first points of the game. The conversion was successful and Tonga had an early 7-0 lead.

Samoa needed to reply and they did through Otto who perhaps felt he had to make up for the earlier dropped ball. Fullback Fa’atoina Autagavaia collected a clearance kick from Tonga that failed to find touch. He fired the ball to David Lemi who immediately found Otto.

Tonga dominated the early exchanges and also had the first opportunity to put points on the board through a penalty conversion. Latiume Fosita missed.

Five minutes into the game, Manu Samoa had a good attacking opportunity only for Fautua Otto to drop the ball centimetres from the try line. A penalty opportunity for Tusi Pisi was not converted.

Twenty five minutes into the game, Tonga found a gap down the right side of the field, sending wing, Otulea Katoa to corner for the first points of the game. The conversion was successful and Tonga had an early 7-0 lead.

Samoa needed to reply and they did through Otto who perhaps felt he had to make up for the earlier dropped ball. Fullback Fa’atoina Autagavaia collected a clearance kick from Tonga that failed to find touch. He fired the ball to David Lemi who immediately found Otto.

“Tonga also came here to compete and that’s exactly we saw. The good thing is that we have two games to go and next week will be another tough one."

“But this match between Tonga and Samoa will build up the team.”

The coaching staff will have a few nervous days ahead with some key players injured yesterday. Flanker Faifili Levave had to be assisted from the field after suffering what appeared to be quite a serious leg injury.

Utility forward Kane Thompson also had to leave the field after he received a heavy knock while fielding a high kick from Tonga. The game yesterday was played before a sold out Apia Park crowd.

Namulauulu acknowledged the support of everyone saying, “To everyone from the Head of State; Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese , Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament and leaders of government bodies, all the supporters especially to all of our sponsors thank you very much for your support.a' “We have another game to prepare for next week and we’ll need to learn quick and move on.”

SAMOA: Tries: Fautua Otto and David Lemi, Conversions and kicks, Tusi Pisi TONGA: Tries: Otulea Katoa and Joshua Afu, Conversions and kicks, Latiume Fosita and Fangatapu Apikatoa

MANU SAMOA

1-15: Sakaria Taulafo, Wayne Ole Avei, Logovi’i Mulipola, Kane Thompson, Teofilo Paulo, Faifili Levave, Jack Lam, Taiasina Tuifua, Jeremy Su’a, Tusiata Pisi, David Lemi, Johnny Leota, Alapati Leiua, Fautua Otto, Fa’atoina Autagavaia RESERVES Ti’i Paulo, Anthony Perenise, Cencus Johnston, Daniel Leo, Ofisa Treviranus, Kahn Fotuali’i, George Pisi, Anitele’a Tuilagi IKALE TAHI

1-15: Tevita Mailau, Suliasi Taufalele, Sila Puafisi, Joshua Afu, Lisiate Fa’aoso, Pasuka Mapakaitolo, Nili Latu (c), Viliami Ma’afu, Samisoni Fisilau, Latiume Fosita, Alaska Taufa, Fraser Anderson, Siale Piutau, Otulea Katoa, David Halaifonua RESERVES: Paula Ngauamo, Kamaliele Sakalia, Edmund Aholelei, Daniel Faleafa, Viliami Fihaki, Sonatane Takulua, Fangatapu ‘Apikotoa and Fetu’u Vainikolo.

Referee: Wayne Barnes - With reporting from Lanuola Tusani and Ilia Likou

Avele College celebrated 90 years yesterday with a parade, speeches, a feast and $20,000 given to the school by the Government.

The College kicked off the festivities with a parade along Beach Road in Apia ending out the front of the Government Building where the official ceremony was held.

Vice Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in Samoa, Reverend Dr. Tavita Pagaiali’i, opened the ceremony with a prayer and aksed for a moment of silence from the crowd in rememberence of the College’s Old Pupils who had passed on.

In attendence were Prime Minsiter, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Minister of Revenue, Tuiloma Pule Lameko, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Tuisugaletaua Sofara Aveau, Minister for Women, Community and Social Development, Tolofuaivalelei Falemoe Lei’ataua, New Zealand High Commissioner, Jackie Frizelle and special guest, Cook Island’s Queen’s Representative, Tom Marsters, who is an Avele College old boy.

Tuilaepa presented the school with a gift of $20,000.

The Prime Minsiter said in his speech that Avele is the school that not only holds many fond memories for many of its past students, it was also renowned for its disciplinary code.

“Students adhere to the motto, “those who are last refer to those who were first,” (e fa’alogo mulimai i a muamai),” he said.

“I have no doubt that this type of discipline became the foundation for the success of the college in educational, sporting and other pursuits.” He also said that the journey Avele College took to reach its 90th Anniversary has not been easy.

“It was tested by storms that almost resulted in the demise of the college when it was closed in 1987,” said Tuilaepa.

“Tofilau Eti Alesana, former leader of the H.R.P.P, then promised that if his party was again elected the school would be resurrected.

“That promise has been kept by the government to this present day.”

Tuilaepa said the Government has come to recognise the school as one of the oldest colleges to be established in Samoa.

“Indeed the government cannot forget the historical significance of Avele,” said the Prime Minsiter.

“Many leaders have been educated and passed through the gates of Avele and those leaders are not only the sons and daughters of Samoa but also of our neighbouring island nations.”

He then encouraged the students of Avele College to retain the ideas and mottos of the school.

“I would encourage all ex-students to retain the ideas and mottos of Avele College, such as to honour those who ended the school before you and to ensure those who are wet behind their ies’, defer and seek the wisdom of those who are older and wiser,” said Tuilaepa.

One such Avele Old Pupil from a neighbouring island is the Cook Island’s Queen’s Representative Tom Marsters.

Not one to often make public adresseses, Mr. Marsters could not help but feel emotional about his former school and made an exception for the occasion.

“Talofa Avele, E le galo Avele,” he said.

“I take notes from the Prime Minister’s comments the statement concerning, ‘wet behind the ie’.

“In our language or the language of Avele we call that ‘muli susū (sic).

“That’s the language of Avele for wet behind the ie and Tuilaepa was absolutely correct when he talked about the discipline or rather the myth of discipline at Avele.

“I should know because I went through that myself as a ‘muli susū to start with.

“I am proud to be a tama tuai o Avele (old boy of Avele).”

Mr. Marsters said he is who he is today because of the grounding Avele College gave him.

“When the message came to me that there was a celebration being organised for Avele I (said I) wouldn’t miss it for the world,” he said.

“It’s wonderful to know that I belong to a group of special people. To the present students and future students, look after our school because you will know this one day when you start journeying through your matured life that you will reflect on Avele.

“And I am sure that you will thank Avele for what it has done for you.”

During the ceremony special awards were also given out to the ex-students of Avele for their service within the school.

Tuilaepa also received a special award for the government’s help with rebuilding of new school buildings after Cyclone Evan.

The day continued with a big lunch and an ‘ava ceremony to welcome Mr. Marsters and also the Head of State of Samoa, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and His Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia Tamasese.

The celebration of the 90th Anniversary continues today with the school’s sports day at the Avele compound.

The Samoa Sports Facilities Authority (S.S.F.A.) broke its own law by having two too many board members, a Parliament Select committee has found.

In light of this, the Education Science, Communication and Information Technology (E.S.C.I.T.) Committee has asked the Government review the number of people who sit on the S.S.F.A. Board.

The report by was among 39 reports tabled and approved by Parliament without debate when it sat in April. A copy of the report in question has been obtained by the Sunday Samoan.

The Committee is chaired by Associate Minister, Lenatai Victor Tamapua. Other members include Ifopo Matia Filisi as Deputy Chairperson, Tusa Misi Tupuola, Levaopolo Talatonu, Aveau Nikotemo Palamo, Tuileutu Alavaa Voi and Tufuga Gafoaleata Faitua.

“The Committee noted that for the Financial Years considered the Board of Directors consisted of the Chairman with 12 Board Members as appointed by the Head of State under the advice by Cabinet for a three year term,” the Committee reports.

“Whereas in accordance with provisions of the Act which state that only 11 members are to be appointed as the Board of Directors.”

Further down the report, the E.S.C.I.T. Committee recommended the Government “review the number of Members of the Board of Directives so to be in line with the provisions of the Act.”

According to the S.S.F.A. Act 2007, The Board of Directors of the Authority shall consist of, the Minister, who shall be the Chairperson, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry responsible for Sports, the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority appointed by the Board who shall be Secretary for the Board, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Works, Transportation and Infrastructure, a representative nominated by the National Olympic Committee being the National Federation of Amateur Sports in Samoa (S.A.S.N.O.C.), and six other directors appointed by the Head of State on the advice of Cabinet.

The Committee also noted in its consideration of each financial year, the similarity and duplication in the structure and explanation of the Authority’s Reports.

“In addition to the structure and information within the Annual Report of the Authority, it only lists out its activities and functions that used their Facilities but there is no information as to the standard and if there are any repairs needed to the Facilities,” the report reads.

“The Committee noted that the Samoa Sports Facilities Authority was established under the Samoa Sports Facilities Authority Act 2007 to replace the previous acts, that were enacted for the specific purpose of control, management and administering of sports facilities as vested in the Authority as well as other facilities established elsewhere and given to the Authority to control, manage and administer.

“Although the act is the principal mandate of the Authority, they are however responsible also to performance and accountability mechanisms as stated in other legal provisions.” In addition to reviewing the number of Board Members, the E.S.C.I.T. Committee made two other recommendations to government. “That the Corporation review compilation of its annual reports thoroughly in order to avoid repetition of its Annual explanations and structuring of information as noted by the Committee for the three financial years considered. “That the Corporation outline the conditions and standards of the Sports Facilities and Fields within their Annual Reports.” This is the report in full:

1. RECOMMENDATION: The Education, Science, Communication & Information Technology Committee recommend that the Assembly takes note of its Report. 2. PREAMBLE: The Education, Science, Communication & Information Technology Committee is constituted pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 172. MEMBERS APPOINTED Tofa LENATAI Victor Faafoi Tamapua Chairperson 31/05/2011 Susuga IFOPO Matia Filisi Deputy Chairperson 31/05/2011 Tofa TUSA Misi Tupuola Member 31/05/2011 Tofa LEVAOPOLO Talatonu Member 31/05/2011 Tofa AVEAU Nikotemo Palamo Member 31/05/2011 Tofa TUILEUTU AlavaaVoi Member 31/05/2011 Afioga TUFUGA Gafoaleata Faitua Member 03/10/2011 3. STANDING ORDER 172: In accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders 172, it shall be the duty of the Committee to:- (a) Consider any bill, petition or any other matter referred by the Assembly or pursuant to these Standing Orders; and such Estimates or review of ministerial performance as maybe referred by the Finance & Expenditure Committee; (b) Examine the policy, administration and expenditure of ministries and associate government organisations related to education, sports, youth & culture, science, communications and information technology. 4. PAPER CONSIDERED: (Tabled 21/8/2012)

(Referred/8/2012) 1. P.P. 2011/2012 No.23, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2008/2009. (Tabled 26/3/2013) (Referred 27/3/2013) 2. P.P. 2012/2013 No.78, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2009/2010. 3. P.P. 2012/2013 N0. 79, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2010/2011.

5. WITNESSES: The Committee during the course of its investigation heard evidence submitted by: Samoa Sports Facilities Authority: Moefaauouo Salale Moananu - Chief Executive Officer

6. FINDINGS: The Committee noted that the Samoa Sports Facilities Authority was established under the Samoa Sports Facilities Authority Act 2007 to replace the previous acts; that were enacted for the specific purpose of control, management and administering of sports facilities as vested in the Authority as well as other facilities established elsewhere and given to the Authority to control, manage and administer. Although the act is the principal mandate of the Authority, they are however responsible also to performance and accountability mechanisms as stated in other legal provisions. The Committee noted that for the Financial Years considered the Board of Directors consisted of the Chairman with 127 Board Members as appointed by the Head of State under the advice by Cabinet for a three year term. Whereas in accordance with provisions of the Act which state that only 11 members are to be appointed as the Board of Directors. The Committee also noted in its consideration of each financial year, the similarity and duplication in the structure and explanation of the Authorities Reports. In addition to the structure and information within the Annual Report of the Authority, it only lists out its activities and functions that used their Facilities but there is no information as to the standard and if there are any repairs needed to the Facilities.

6.1 Funds of the Authority: The Authority is funded under the Public Finance Management Act 2001, along with donations and hire by Government Ministry’s, Corporation, Private Sector and the general public for functions. 6.1.1 Financial Overview 2008/2009: Revenue: The Committee noted the increase in revenue for the Corporation due to an increase in number of organisations and functions hiring the facilities. Revenue of the Corporation was mainly generated from the Samoa Aquatic Centre, Venue Hire, Apia Park Foodstalls, Lease agreements and advertising billboards. Expenditure: The Committee noted that since the establishment of the Authority it faced difficulties for this financial year. However due to the decrease and control of Creditors which had accounts with the Authority also by limiting the number of accounts only on the approval of its General Managers and Assistant Managers this has enabled the Authority to decrease its expenditure by $2,834,706 in comparison to the previous year. The Authority also stated that for this financial year 2008/2009 it had unavoidable expenditure that was not forecasted in its budget but due to the need payment was made for Insurance Cover for the facilities, international travel to sports related events which required a representative of the Authority.

6.1.2 Financial Overview 2009/2010: Revenue: The Committee noted that revenue collected by the Corporation exceeded the revenue projected and also in comparison to the previous year by approximately $52,962. This is due to the increase in usage of facilities by organisations as well as the general public. Expenditure: The Committee noted the decrease in the Authorities expenditure due to the effective application of control measures each month. The Authority were able to decrease its expenditure by $1,109, 915 in comparison to the previous year. Despite the decrease in its expenditure the Authority still faces difficulties with managing its expenditure due to increase in fuel, electricity and materials.

6.1.3 Financial Overview 2010/2011: Revenue: The Committee noted that the actual revenues generated from users of facilities during the year has increased compared to the prior year. Revenues collected are approximately $390, 653, comparable revenues increased by 28% over the prior year. This is due to the increase of facility hire, users and increase in activities that take place in the SSFA venues. Expenditure: The Committee noted that expenditure for the Authority had decreased in comparison to the previous year by approximately $572,903. 7. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: The Committee acknowledges the tremendous effort and determination of the Corporation in utilizing and improving its systems. Not just for the benefit of the Corporation but in order to carry out its services to its customers and stakeholders in accordance with its mandates.

8. RECOMMENDATIONS: Based on its Findings, the Committee recommends the Government to:- 1. Review the number of Members of the Board of Directives so to be in line with the provisions of the Act. 2. That the Corporation review compilation of its annual reports thoroughly in order to avoid repetition of its Annual explanations and structuring of information as noted by the Committee for the three financial years considered. 3. That the Corporation outline the conditions and standards of the Sports Facilities and Fields within their Annual Reports.

9. RESOLUTION: At the conclusion of its consideration the Committee resolved to recommend the Assembly: To approve P.P. 2012/2013 No. 23, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2008/2009; P.P. 2012/2013 No. 73, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2009/2010&P.P. 2012/2013 No. 79, Annual Report of Samoa Sports Facilities Authority 2010/2011.

LENATAI Victor Faafoi Tamapua CHAIRPERSON

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi said all crews should obey the rules. Tuilaepa also suggested that bad behaviour from the crews could result in the captain being banned from any future race.

The government has announced changes to the annual Independence Day fautasi race.

It follows the controversial end to last week’s 52nd Independence Day regatta where two crews nearly came to blows.

Only three of the six crews that took part were awarded prizes during the prize giving.

The rest did not receive anything.

Instead, their fate was to be decided during a special meeting held last Friday at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Yesterday, the Office of the Press Secretariat issued a statement outlining three changes to the race next year.

One of them is that a village can now only enter one crew for the race.

Another change will see the Fautasi committee control and dictate the lanes for all crews.

In the statement, it also warned that “any crew that breaches the guidelines; their captain and crewmembers will be dealt with and the village name will be affected.”

The Committee’s hope is to “keep the sacredness of the traditional race.”

“The race should be done in the spirit of peace and a positive manner,” the release states.

The statement did not give details about what decision was made against the crews that did not receive prizes.

These included Segavao from Don Bosco, La o le Aoa from Sinamoga and Ulua’i La o le Talalelei from Salelologa.

Contacted for a comment yesterday, Captain of Le Tolotolo o Tama Uli, Pauli Ivan Williams, said he was not aware of the new guidelines.

Last week, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi said all crews should obey the rules.

Tuilaepa also suggested that bad behaviour from the crews could result in the captain being banned from any future race.

What’s a celebration without a ball? With that in mind, hundreds of former St. Mary’s students gathered at Tofamamao on Friday night, all decked out in their evening best for a night of fun.

The ball, which was part of the Missionary Sisters of Mary’s (S.M.S.M) 150th Jubilee, was a rare moment to gather under one roof and reminisce for the former and present students.

It was also a time to recount fond memories of the good old days from Saint Mary’s Primary School at Savalalo to St. Mary’s College at Vaimoso.

The celebrations started last week and has carried through to this week.

The ball was one of the final events leading up to the closing today with a Mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral at Mulivai at 10am.

The guests on Friday night included the Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi. The Prime Minister’s wife, Gillian Malielegaoi, was also present.

Among them was Tina Suhren, who travelled from New Zealand for the event.

“It’s immensely exciting and it has been a very successful celebration,” she said.

She shared about the bond that continues to keep her former class mates as well as other former students connected despite the many years apart, or the different lives that each one has gone on to make for themselves.

Mrs. Suhren attended the school in 1965.

She spoke fondly of the memories as well as what she continues to believe stands out and identifies students that attended the St Mary’s schools.

“It is important to thank God especially for the S.M.S.M and the schools,” she said.

She expressed thanks to the old girls that stayed in Samoa, who organised the event.

Mrs Suhren believes that lessons taught to the former students by the teachers at the St Marys Schools played a huge role in the success of the event.

“I’m thankful and grateful to the girls who stay in Samoa and who worked hard to put this together because it is so successful and wonderful compared to the length of time it’s taken to prepare it.”

Mrs. Suhren was also very thankful for the fellowship.

“It has been wonderful and I pray to God for more good things to happen to the S.M.S.M”.

She said the gathering is also important as it suggests the importance of non-governmental educational institutions and the need for the community to support such schools.

“Education is the key forward and the only way to develop the youths of this country,” she said.

A prominent personality in the medical profession, Dr. John Atherton, has passed away.

He died at the Moto’otua Hospital on Tuesday. He was 76.

Dr. Atherton’s death was confirmed by his wife, Papali’i Dr. Viopapa Annandale-Atherton. She told the Samoa Observer yesterday that her husband died after a battle witha long-term lung disorder.

“He died 12.25am on the 2nd June at Moto’otua,” said Papali’i. “He was seriously ill and the cause of death was fibrosing alveolitis.”

Dr. Atherton passed away a few weeks away from his birthday on June 18th.

Papali’i remembered her husband as being witty and having a “dry sense of humour”.

“He was a great writer and thinker that wrote many letters to the Samoa Observer,” she said.

“He has read the different religious books, Koran, Mormon, teaching of Buddha and read the Bible three times.

“John read all the religious books for understanding and deeper meaning of the soul. He was in search of his view of God.”

She said her husband also enjoyed writing, often putting pen to paper about issues that fancied him.

“He would write about local politics, philosophy particularly comparative religion,” she said.

She also remembers his adventurous character.

“He loved to travel with his wife,” she said, smiling. “We would go on a round the world trip every two years and visit family in England and Spain. His favourite place to visit was Austria.

“He never missed visits to Austria because he helped the Hungarian refugees in World War II by building their homes.”

Born in South Rise – Surrey, England, Dr. Atherton served the community of Samoa particularly in the medical field for more than 30 years.

He retired from full medical practice in 2007 but went back to do part time practice in 2008.

Dr. Atherton was first appointed as Assistant Surgeon at TupuaTamaseseMeaole Hospital from 1971 – 1974.

His second appointment as Surgeon Specialist, a Chief Surgeon was from 1976 – 1982.

In 1993 he established the SoifuaManuia clinic at Matautu with his wife Papali’i.

Dr. Atherton is a founding member of the Samoa General Practitioners Association and was later Secretary and President. He was also a member of the Mapusaga o Aiga and board member of Samoa Cancer Society.

Dr. Atherton is survived by his wife and two sons, Malvern and James Atherton.