The manner with which the government sacked the former Police Commissioner, Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo, has left a bitter taste in his mouth.

Breaking his long held silence about his termination during an interview with the Weekend Observer, Lilomaiava says he feels like he has been discarded like a piece of trash after 35 years as a public servant.

Speaking from his home at Magiagi, Lilomaiava says he has accepted the decision by Cabinet and he is moving on with his life.

He plans to continue working on his plantation and spend more time with his family, especially his children.

But what has left him heartbroken and bitterly disappointed is the way in which his services were terminated.

“I was only served the letter (of termination) from the Minister after the whole world found out about my termination in the Samoa Observer,” says Lilomaiava.

The letter, he points out, was also in response to a letter he had written to the Minister, asking for an explanation about what was going on.

At 58-years-old, Lilomaiava says he gave his all as a Police Officer.

“I have served in the Police Force for thirty five years,” he says. “It was my first job when I entered as a cadet and I’ve devoted my entire life to my work.”

Lilomaiava says to be discarded like rubbish hurts and pains deeply.

“The way I see it is that once they are done with what they want from you, they just kick you out like a ball and leave you like that,” he says.

“I feel sad, disappointed and I don’t want to work again because this is the only work that God gave me.”

Asked if he would ever consider working for the government again, Lilomaiava says no.

Common courtesy goes a long way, he reminded.

“And right now, I have no interest in working again for the government,” he says. “Who wants to work for them (government) again if this is how they treat public servants?”

Last month, the Commission of Inquiry that investigated the capacity of the Commissioner found that his performance was “below the standard” reasonably expected from someone holding his position. As such, they recommended to Cabinet that he be terminated.

“We conclude that there have been acts and/ or failures to act by Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo amounting to performance that is below the standard that reasonably must be expected from the Commissioner of Police in the performance of his duties and responsibilities,” the report reads.

“We conclude that as reflected in the Report of the Tafaigata Commission of Inquiry and as further explored in this Commission of Inquiry, Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo has behaved in a manner likely to adversely affect the confidence of the community in his ability to perform his role as the Commissioner of Police."

“In view of the foregoing we recommend that Lilomaiava Fou Taioalo no longer serve as Commissioner of Police.”

The Inquiry, headed by Ombudsman Maiava Iulai Toma, flows from “Cabinet’s apparent loss of confidence in Commissioner Lilomaiava” after an initial Inquiry confirmed a host of allegations at Tafa’igata – including corruption and mismanagement of the prisons.

The Inquiry was asked to focus on two issues.

The first was whether Lilomaiava breached his duties as a Commissioner and whether such a breach affected the confidence of the community in the ability of the Commissioner to perform his role.

Lawyer, Diana Roma, represented the Commissioner. She argued that the allegations against her client had not been proven and therefore his services should not be terminated.

“To conclude, the Commission may find at the end of the inquiry that there are short coming in the performance of the Commissioner but our submissions are that the Commissioner offered reasonable explanations towards the matters raised in light of the Tafa’igata report which we submit does not amount to a breach of his duties,” Mrs. Roma argued.

“We also submit that the complaints made during the previous inquiry are not necessarily representative or indicative of the public’s view of the Commissioner ability to perform his duties.

“Let it not be forgotten that there are other duties that were well performed by the Commissioner for the good of the Ministry and the community as a whole.”

It’s that one day of the year, White Sunday.

“We want to wish all children of Samoa a Happy White Sunday today,” said Reverend Isaako Taualalo of the Methodist Church at Saina, “for they are the gift from the Lord.”

He said that the day ‘is a day for parents and communities to acknowledge and celebrate childhood by hosting special programmes during church services which include scriptural recitations, biblical story re-enactments, and creative dance performances. The general practice of the day is that children are given the responsibility of planning the church service.” In the Samoan language the holiday is called "Lotu Tamaiti," literally "Children's Service" or "Prayer for Children."

There are differing opinions about the origins of this holiday.

Some believe that White Sunday to be a Christian adaptation of an indigenous pre-contact celebration of certain planting and harvesting seasons.

Others said that the holiday coincides with a family celebration that became widespread in the 1920's in commemoration of Samoans who succumbed to the influenza epidemic of 1919; this epidemic which was introduced through the ambivalence of the New Zealand colonial administration.

It is estimated that it took the lives of between one fifth to one quarter of the Samoan population.

Reverend Fa’apa’ia Tariu of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (C.C.C.S.). said that White Sunday originated from Malua.

“In 1830 John Williams of the London Missionary Society also known as C.C.C.S. landed on Savaii. He settled in Samoa as a missionary and at that time that the church started, the missionaries made a special service for the children.”

“So it was the children of those first Samoan teachers at Malua Theological College and the Missionaries who started up this special service for children which is now called ‘White Sunday.”

“For they (children) are a reward from Him,” he said.

Children also receive gifts like new clothes and others on White Sunday and are allowed privileges normally reserved for elders, such as as being the first to be served food at family meal times.

The Chief Justice, Right Honourable Patu F. M. Sapolu, dismissed a motion to strike out an action against the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (S.P.R.E.P.) for breach of contract brought by former employee, Pauline Johnson.

The way is now clear for Mrs Johnson, represented by Ruby Drake, to put before the court the circumstances of her dismissal and invoke her constitutional and human rights on an equal footing with S.P.R.E.P.

Appearing for S.P.R.E.P. Semi Leung Wai sought to have Mrs Johnson’s claim struck out on the grounds that S.P.R.E.P. had diplomatic immunity. 

The Certificate of Immunity was signed by the Deputy Prime Minister, Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo, ten days after notice of Mrs Johnson’s suit was served on S.P.R.E.P. despite the organization having been established in Apia since 16 June 1993, and not having been included in the 1998 Order listing all designated International Organizations with statutory diplomatic immunity and privileges.

When the question was directly put to Mr Leung Wai whether the granting of diplomatic immunity was in response to this case being brought against S.P.R.E.P. he declined to answer.

In making his ruling, the Chief Justice said, “Mr Leung Wai, given what the plaintiff has said, I am not sure that this is a hopeless case. The strike out principle only applies where it is obvious that there is no possibility it can succeed.”

He declined the motion, “because of the complexity of the issues under the constitution.”

In his determination, the Chief Justice upheld the principle of equality of arms, which is inherent in the right to fair trial, a human right guaranteed by the International Bill of Rights and the Samoan Constitution.

Although commonly invoked in criminal trials, the European Court of Human Rights first articulated the principle in a civil case such as this.

The equality of arms principle recognizes the imbalance of power between litigants, and the courts have long protected the rights of parties when the power and resources marshaled against them are disproportionate enough to undermine the principle that all are equal before the law.

The cornerstone of democratic government, the separation of powers, requires that the executive and legislative branches of government do not interfere with the judicial branch and may not influence the outcome of cases before the courts through legislative or regulatory acts.

Legal debate hinged on the waiver clause in the Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act leading the Chief Justice to conclude, “If the plaintiff is right, then the Order is unconstitutional and it will have to be declared unlawful because it breaches the constitution.”

The significance of the decision is that the case and the constitutional arguments will now be heard in court, rather than being silenced. If contractual rights between lone individuals and powerful organizations are not upheld in the nation’s courts, it reflects negatively on the rule of law.

The case is adjourned until 20 October.

Farmer Joe’s Devondale Family Festival Fun Day for all children of Samoa took place yesterday at their Vaitele compound.

General Manager of Farmer Joe’s, AJ Cowley said that ‘this is a great way to kick start the White Sunday celebration for children.” he said.

“The aim of the Festival is to provide a happy family occasion on White Sunday weekend for kids, and families. We wanted to make it more special by offering lots of different fun activities and for each activity, there will be prizes to win and giveaways.”

To enter you have to spend $50 or more at any Farmer Joe outlet to get your five tickets for a day of fun, excitement and lots to do for the children.

The day kicked off with Zumba and dance to music by the OZKI DJ.

According to Mr. Cowley the event was sponsored by Devondale Milk and Tang.

“We want to extend our sincere thanks to Devondale Milk and Tang also to the OZKI band and Business Systems Limited.”

“From all of us here at Farmer Joe’s, we want to wish all the children of Samoa a Happy White Sunday.”

Mary Tofa of Vailoa said that having an opportunity to let his children have more fun before their day was ‘really exciting’.

“The children were having a good time, and as a mother, I want to thank Farmer Joe’s for the early celebration of White Sunday.”

“Well done and thanks a lot!”

No one was injured and buildings were untouched in a bush fire which ignited yesterday at the Yazaki compound.

One of the firemen said that it is not known how the fire started.

“Perhaps someone threw a cigarette butt on this side and that could be how it started.”

“We will look into the matter and keep on working for the safety of the community especially as we are in dry season,” he said.

Last week, members of the public were warned that with the dry spell continuing, the risk of fire for homes and businesses had increased.

The warning came from the Deputy Commissioner of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (F.E.S.A.), Va’asiliega Ioane Iosefa, who urged everyone to be cautious.

Va’asiliega says you can protect your property, business and loved ones by taking extra precautions, knowing that Samoa is in the middle of its dry season, which will continue for a few more weeks.

“I call upon all the members of our community to work together to avoid situations where lives could be put at risk,” Va’asiliega said. “We all know that the ground is extremely dry and things can very quickly catch fire if we are not careful.”

“Our focus is to assist and encourage everyone to know about fire safety because these things can happen at any time and it’s important for people to know what they can do.”

While Va’asiliega did not have statistics, he confirmed that the number of fires this year has increased from last year.

PR - Federal Pacific Finance and Insurance are in party mode next week as they prepare to celebrate 15 years of insurance and finance service to the Samoan public.

Both companies are local Samoan businesses and have been managed for the last 15 years by Afamasaga Opeta Siilata (Finance) and Namulauulu Leota Sami Leota (Insurance).

“When the businesses started, 15 years ago we had nothing on our loans portfolio and written premium income; this was a green-fields start-up. We have been very fortunate with the strong management and support of all staff in both companies and of course our excellent customers,” said Director Papalii Alan Hutchison.

“Additionally I am truly grateful to the Governor of the Central Bank of Samoa (CBS), Maiava Atalina Enari who regulates the insurance industry, for the balanced and supportive role she plays in encouraging open dialogue between CBS (as the regulators) and ourselves.”

“It’s encouraging for private businesses to see the level of partnership that is possible between an open regulatory body and the private sector,” said Papalii.

Customising finance for flexibility

The Finance service offers medium to large loans to the public within a 36 month period. Located at Federal Pacific House in Saleufi, the company employs some 20+ staff on Upolu and Savaii. FP Finance has been in Tonga since 2004 in central Nukualofa, and currently employs a staff of 10 Tongan nationals.

General Manager Afamasaga Opeta Siilata said the aim of the company was flexibility in the assessment and structure of loans – as much as possible customising each to meet the needs of his customers and the demands of life in Samoa.

“Our customers have come to expect this from us and it makes for some very good long term relationships,” he said.

Afamasaga said one of the company’s biggest advantages is that if all assessment requirements are met, loans could generally be processed within 24 hours for small to medium loans, and 48 hours for larger loans.

“That means something to our customers, particularly when there is a fa’alavelave or unplanned financial obligations,” he said.

“Fifteen years ago when we kicked off, we knew the market was out there and we knew through prudent management and solid systems we could offer finance options that were appealing to our community and at the same time, we could achieve our own goals,” said Afamasaga.

“We have a great team at Federal Pacific Finance, and I’m very happy to share the credit for reaching this milestone with them; nothing worthwhile is easy to achieve and hard work gets results,” he said.

From small things

Federal Pacific Insurance has seen many changes along the way from its early days in Tanugamanono to its current homes in Federal Pacific House in Apia, Fund Management House in Tonga & 6 Lloyds Avenue in London. The one thing that hasn’t changed is its belief in its products.

From multi-million tālā claim payouts for a tsunami and a cyclone and hundreds of other settlements in the intervening years, the company has worked hard to remain true to its basic tenets: sound assessments, solid reinsurance backing and honouring genuine claims.

“It’s the formula that works: we do our homework, we back ourselves up and we will honour all genuine policy commitments to our customers,” said General Manager, Namulauulu Sami Leota.

Some of the company’s biggest challenges in the last 15 years have occurred in the last five years, namely the destruction and devastation of the 2009 tsunami and Cyclone Evan in 2012.

“Quick responses from international loss adjusters (Cunningham Lindsey formerly GAB Robbins), our Reinsurers, THB in London for the Lloyds Syndicates that participate in our Reinsurance, meant the worst affected customers received payments quickly in order to deal with getting their lives back in order”.

These challenges have not been limited to Samoa. In November 2006, riots in Nukualofa devastated half of the capital and caused tens of millions of pa’anga in damage. Federal Pacific Insurance was one of very few insurers to settle all claims following those riots.

“We were also there to handle claims following the January 2014 destruction caused by Cyclone Ian,” said Namulauulu.

Director, Papalii Alan Hutchison said the group was keen to establish a further presence in the region using the same model as Samoa, believing that it would also do well in other Pacific countries.

“For the moment, we’re just very happy to celebrate this anniversary and look to the future with optimism. Most of all we wish to extend our most grateful thanks to all our loyal and supportive customers who have trusted these services over the past 15 years and we will continue to provide support in the future,” he said.

The companies will share the anniversary celebrations at a function to be held next week.

Age is only a number. Just ask 66-year-old Auali’itia Jack Apelu from Vaiusu and Lefaga and that’s precisely what he will tell you.At his age, you’d expect him to have really slowed down by now so that he will restricted to reading, eating and trying to make the most of his last years.

Not this young man. The Auckland-based Samoan keeps himself busy working out at the gym and running to keep fit.

In his prime, rugby was his passion. Along with other Samoans in the area, they formed an all- Samoan team that was unbeatable for one season playing in the Senior C division at Papatoetoe rugby club.

“We didn't know that Senior C was a lower division in rugby and we smashed all the teams we played against, there was no North Harbour rugby union then.”

Their success prompted a move to trial for the premier division in the following year where 11 of them made the team.

However, with a move up the to the premier division of the Auckland rugby meant they can't rely on their C division skills to get by and that began Jack's fitness regime.

He ran everywhere and to work.

Playing hooker required a lot of hard work and Jack never shied away from hard work, and to do that he must be fit. He ran from his home in Papatoetoe to Fletchers at Penrose, about one hour and thirty minutes each way every day.

“I ran through the winter and my mates said I was crazy. I hate winter but running made me warm,” he sad.

“When I was playing in the C division, we only train on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for Saturday's game. Premier rugby wasn't like that.

“We were told to train in our own time and to turn up to rugby training already fit – that meant training every day of the week, so I ran everywhere.

I played hooker but was moved to flanker because of my superior fitness.

In those days at Papatoetoe rugby, we had to run around Papatoetoe, and the first 15 that came in was the team that will play on Saturday.

“We didn't know that palagis train seven days-a-week to play rugby, we island boys were fit and only train on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, no individual training.”

Jack then shifted to the East Tamaki rugby club before ending his rugby career at Ponsonby when he heard about their intended trip to Samoa.

“I was getting on a bit with my age at that stage and a trip to my homeland Samoa to play rugby sounded good. Peter Fatialofa was our captain on that trip. I enjoyed it but was worried about what to do after rugby.” He went back and played presidents

team at East Tamaki. “Just social games with the Cook islanders.” Born in Samoa, the father of three, four grandchildren and one great grandchild, hung up his rugby boots at 46.

But he felt empty. He felt that he needed something to fill the vacuum created by his retirement from rugby. And that’s how he got into bodybuilding.

So from the game of lineouts, scrums, tackles and mauls then chasing the oval ball, Jack entered the world where he only wears a skimpy outfit to bare all his muscles.

He said he needed to to stay fit because he was working for Sprinkler Systems at the time and bodybuilding training helped to maintain his fitness.

He was asked to join the Papatoetoe gym bodybuilding team that was going to the Nationals Bodybuilding competition in Taranaki but he told them he was too old.

They twisted his arm and he ended up going with 20 bodybuilders from the Papatoetoe gym.

He returned with a trophy – in his very first competition at the Masters division.

“And from that point onwards, I never stopped. I have been competing for 20 years now.

“Last week I won the Masters in Whakatane in the 60's age group. In 20 years and 71 competitions all over New Zealand, I have won 31 of them with 40 placements.

“In the year 2000, I competed 11 times and won them all. The last one was just last week. I've competed from Whangarei right down to south island, the whole of New Zealand.

“They have a bodybuilding competition calendar. For me, I have have natural muscles, I can compete any time I want but I do train all year to stay in shape.”

Jack also represented Samoa in the Pan Pacific Bodybuilding competition when he first started.

Jack has worked at the Farmers Distribution Centre for the last ten years and has no plans to retire.

He cycles to work every day. His employer had acknowledged his stay healthy regime out of nearly 500 people who works with him.

Keven Mealamu is his favourite All Black, “Because we both play hooker and go to the same church.”

Today, Jack encourages people his age to stay active.

“Life is good for me and my family,” he says. “My two daughters have got university qualifications and are now secondary school teachers, my son is starting his own business soon and I’m a happy man.”

The goal for him is to continue in the bodybuilding competition until he reaches 70. He wants to grab every title there is to win in the Masters division.

And his firm handshake is an indication that retirement is still a long way off.

“As a result of the investigation, the following action has been taken."

Four police officers who locked up a three year old child inside a police cell on the 26th of September, have been suspended.

This confirmation came from the Acting Assistant Police Commissioner, Misa Nafo’atoa Talaimanu last Friday ata press conference.

“A proper message has already been made and an investigation into the case by the Professional Standards Unit of the Ministry of Police has been completed,” said Misa.

“As a result of the investigation, the following action has been taken.

“The four police officers involved have now been suspended as of today awaiting a hearing at the police tribunal on the 28th October.

“This matter was a sign of a lapse in the execution of police duties. Going forward from here, an emphasis has been placed on the execution of duties as per ministry policies and procedures.

“Further training will be carried out to enhance the professional capacities of the office to avoid such matters from occuring in the future.”

The story was published in this newspaper last month when the father of the three year old complained of how his son was locked up inside police cell for two hours.

“I told them, we come from a faraway place in Falealili and that’s where my son needs to go,” he said.

“The officer didn’t pay any attention to me and then he told the other police officers to take me together with my son inside the cell.”

With the cell door shut, the father said he cried.

The man said he contacted the Samoa Observer because he wanted to warn people about how brutal some Police officers have become.

“The law is the law,” he said, “but taking me and my son into a prison cell is something I will never forgive nor forget.”

It was a publicist’s dream final in round one of the Gold Coast Sevens in the HSBC Sevens World Series. In an enthralling encounter between crowd favourites, Fiji and Samoa, it went down to the final four minutes of the game. And it was Jasa Veremalua who crossed the line to seal the 31-24 final score in favour of Fiji.

Fiji defeated Samoa 31-24 in final of the Gold Coast Sevens to win round one of the HSBC Sevens World Series and take an early lead in the race for Olympic qualification.

Setefano Cakau scored two tries in the first half before Apisai Domolaili and Semi Kunatani saw the Fijians take a 26-0 lead. But Samoa’s Fautua Otto scored just before half time before Lolo Lui, Siaosi Asofolau and Tila Mealoi narrowed the gap to just two points with four minutes to go.

However, Fiji managed to cement their 2014 Gold Cup Sevens Cup final win when Jasa Veremalua crossed the line to seal the 31-24 final score.

“It was a rollercoaster final but we hung on in there,” said head coach Ben Ryan. “We are by no means the finished product. I feel at home in Fiji and we are grateful for all of the support back in the country.”

Earlier England, who finished the tournament third after two Dan Norton tries secured a 19-0 win over South Africa, recorded their best victory over New Zealand since 2003 as they recorded a 31-7 win against the defending HSBC Sevens

World Series and Gold Coast Sevens champions.

It’s the first time the All Blacks Sevens have not made a Cup semi final since Dubai 2011 with England captain Phil Burgess scoring two tries in the win and Simon Amor’s side will now face Fiji in the semi finals.

“We know that New Zealand are so physical and that we had to match them and today, that’s what we did. We matched them and we were clinical,” said Burgess.

“I don’t know how many times we had the ball in their half or their 22 but we came away with points nearly every time.”

New Zealand bounce back to win Plate

New Zealand finished their tournament on a high with a 36-21 win over Argentina. The Kiwis scored five tries in the first half as Joe

Webber followed on from his hat-trick earlier today with a try. Argentina tried to claw back in the second half with three tries, including

Francisco Merello’s sixtieth World Series try, however New Zealand persevered to take home the Plate.

“We set high standards so to trip up in the quarter final (defeat by England) was massive for us,” said captain DJ Forbes. “It wasn’t ideal but, in terms of the World Series, you’ve got to start somewhere.”

Earlier, Webber scored a hat-trick as New Zealand bounced back from their defeat to England to beat Wales 39-5 in their Plate semi final before Axel Muller scored two tries in the final minute as Argentina beat the hosts 21-17.

“It’s our first tournament of the year and it’s pretty disappointing to come away with not many points but the boys will have to regroup going into Dubai and South Africa,” said Australia captain Ed Jenkins. “With this group and its experience now we just have to work to shut down a game when we get the chance.”

Baker and Test help Eagles win Bowl

Mike Friday picked up some silverware in his first tournament in charge after USA beat France 31-15 in the Bowl final with Zack Test and Perry Baker both adding tries to their tournament tallies.

“We’ve had to learn some harsh lessons this weekend but they’ve played some good rugby today,” said head coach Mike Friday. “There are a lot of good teams here, the level is rising and we need to move from being participants to competitors.”

In the semi finals USA recorded a 33-0 win over Portugal thanks to a hat-trick from Baker while France also left their opponents scoreless, beating Scotland 26-0 in their semi final which featured Virimi Vakatawa’s third try of the day.

Jones fires Canada to the Shield

Canada beat Kenya in the Shield final with a convincing 40-7 victory. Harry Jones scored half of his team’s points in the form of two tries and five conversions. Sean Duke managed a double in just two minutes while Jake Webster and Conor

Trainor scored one five-pointer each. “It’s a little bit toasty but we are pleased to end the weekend with a victory,” said captain John Moonlight. “We’ll learn from this experience and regroup ahead of the next leg in Dubai.”

“Everything is well in our party,” he insisted. “People who break away from their party are unsettled and living in other people’s shadows. I can assure you that our party is progressing well”

The Whip for the Tautua Samoa Party, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi, has rubbished reports about his involvement in a new political party, rumoured to be in the pipeline.

“If I want or if I’m to be involved in a new party, I would not hesitate to say it,” the Faleata West M.P. told the Sunday Samoan.

“But I’m not a joker,” he added.

The Sunday Samoan contacted Lealailepule for a comment following reports alleging that he had made a joke during a recent Parliamentary trip to Australia about a new political party.

What exactly was said, cannot be confirmed.

But Leala’s leader in the Tautua Party, Palusalue confirmed that the rumours centered on a comment allegedly made by Leala during the trip in question.

The trip to Tasmania involved both members of the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P) and the Tautua Samoa Party. Led by the

Speaker of Parliament, La’auliolemalietoa Leuatea Polata’ivao, the visit was part of the Samoa Parliamentary Support Project, under the twinning programme known as Pacific Parliamentary Partnerships.

According to Palusalue, while in Australia, members of his party had met for a consultation with the Samoan community there when Leala made a passing joke about a new party.

“It was a joke and that is his way,” said Palusalue.

But Lealailepule denied he made such a joke.

“I don’t know who started the rumour but I don’t joke about things like that,” he said.

As for his political allegiance, Lealailepule reassured the Samoa Observer that he is the Whip of the Tautua Party and that’s where he belongs.

“Everything is well in our party,” he insisted. “People who break away from their party are unsettled and living in other people’s shadows. I can assure you that our party is progressing well.”

As a member of the Tautua, Leala said they have developed a reputation for being fearless when it comes to issues that have negative consequences on the country.

“I’m an independent guy and I do what I feel is right,” said Leala. “I read it (the rumour) in the paper and it seemed that it was someone from us (Tautua) and we were wondering who it was.

“So I’m not worried about the rumours at all.”

Asked if he would join a new political party if it emerges, Leala said no.

According to Talamua media, the new political party is under the leadership of “another former Minister.”

“The party according to circulating reports has some prominent business members backing them for the forthcoming general elections in 2016,” the website reported. The website had apparently also asked former Minister of Finance, Papali’i

Niko Lee Hang if he would join the party but he said no.

“I came into politics as an H.R.P.P. member and will go into the upcoming elections as an H.R.P.P. member,” Papali’i is quoted as saying. “I will never join them.”

Papali’i is one of two members of the H.R.P.P. government who have been extremely vocal against allegations of “corrupt practices” highlighted by the Controller and Chief Auditor, Fuimaono Camillo Afele.

An investigation by the Officers of Parliament Committee, of which Papali’i is a member, confirmed the allegations. The Committee also found instances of “collusion among public servants to defraud” taxpayers and in their report to Parliament, they recommended that legal action be taken against the public servants responsible.

The report was tabled before Parliament at the beginning of the year where Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi’s administration then had 90 days to respond.

That period has expired, with Speaker La’auli granting the government an “indefinite deadline” to respond. The matter is expected to be raised when Parliament sits before the end of the month.

Another H.R.P.P member, Tuu’u Anasi’i Leota had questioned the granting of the extension saying it should not have been given since Parliament was not in session when the extension was granted.

Earlier this year, the Associate Minister of Education, Sports and Culture also raised the idea of setting up a new political party. He later backtracked and said the comments, which led to the reports, were meant to be a “joke.”

In that vein, Leala joked that if the “so-called new party needs a leader, they can always make an application to me.”

Bluesky Samoa presented a $20,000 sponsorship to the organisers of the Samoana Jazz & Arts Festival yesterday, as the countdown continues towards the festivities starting from the 31st October to 2nd of November.

The cheque was handed over by Marketing Manager, Verona Parker, to Producer and Director, Leota Peta Siulepa and Chairman, Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale, during a media launch at Sails Restaurant, yesterday.

“The festival is educational and it is important for the coming generation to appreciate and be educated about what we have (in terms of music),” said Mrs. Parker.

Chairman Tuatagaloa said the event ensures that the legacy of musos like Harry Miller, Willy Miller and Mavis Rivers live on and that their candles keep glowing.

For Leota, she said their intention is to have an international event that visitors, fans, musicians and artists near and far are compelled to travel to Samoa to see every year.

“It will provide a world class musical and arts experience within a thriving cultural environment for patrons and artists whilst economic development benefits to the Samoa islands,” said Leota.

“Samoana Jazz & Festival is uniquely a joint Islands of Samoa festival combining east and west – American Samoa and Samoa – one people, one language and one culture."

“We have the opportunity to build a world class event that showcases all the things we are in celebration with others from around the world.”

The festival will feature international and local acts with performers such as Sydney based Max Stowers and Da SA Souls, Auckland jazz guitarist Lance Su’a, Cairo based Fiji Jazz Diva, Michelle Rounds, The Afrew Faleatua Quintet, Black Sands Diva and recent Wellington

Jazz Festival headliner Iva Lamkum.

The festival incorporates both daytime and night time activities as it blends musical acts with art – exhibitions and workshops, ticketed venues with free public performances held close proximity to hotel accommodation, shops and restaurants and cafes.

The Holland America Line cruise ship, Oosterdam, returned to Apia yesterday bringing 1,841 passengers for a taste of the South Pacific.

At 245.13 meters in length and 82,305 tonnes gross weight, the liner dwarfed all else in view in the port, but the passengers were eager to see what Apia had to offer.

Passenger, Paul Haertsnagel, 69, the man from the mountains of Bavaria, took all of his photographs of the local buses, finding them exotic and colourful.

His first impressions of Apia were all positive.

“Beautiful, friendly people and small scale commercial centre of town, I like that.”

While some passengers were keen to visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum as their top priority during their one day in Samoa, other

less mobile passengers were grateful for the handicrafts vendors area on the pier provided by Samoa Ports Authority.

Gerry and Chris Driscoll from Vancouver were full of genuine curiosity about Samoa’s economy and society as they took their map and strode off to town, looking for answers.

The lure of the beautiful South Sea Islands was the reason many chose this popular cruise which starts from Vancouver, Canada and stops in at Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu, Noumea, Sydney and ends in Auckland, New Zealand.

The passengers are from Canada (734), USA (538), and Australia (405) and 20 other countries, while the 797 crew are predominantly from Indonesia and the Philippines.

Although their stay is brief, many, like Paul Haertsnagel are inspired to return to Samoa for a future holiday. The cruise ship industry is thus of significant value to the tourism sector and the economy of Samoa.

Samoan heavyweight Joseph Parker remains undefeated.

He scored a one-sided ten round unanimous decision over Sherman “Tank” Williams during the early hours of this morning.

The fight held at Trusts Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, ended in controversy when Williams refused to accept defeat and challenged Parker to a rematch.

Moments before, however, the 22-year-old Parker outboxed and outpunched the 42-year-old Williams, but was unable to get an early stoppage.

The “Tank” has still never been stopped in his 52 fight career.

Scores were 100-90, 100-90, 97-94.

With the victory, Parker successfully defended his WBA PABA and WBO Oriental belts.

In a “Corporate Rules” heavyweight bout, 310lb David “Brown Buttabean” Letele (4-3) stopped 303lb John Lomu (2-1) in round two.

In a clash for the NZNBF light heavyweight title Reece “Lightning” Papuni (7-0, 5 KOs) scored a fourth round KO over previously unbeaten

Sam “The Terror” Rapira (8-1, 7 KOs).

Rapira was down once in round three and twice in round four.

Unbeaten Joe Blackbourn (7-0, 7 KOs) scored a second round TKO over pro debuting Mike Junior Kapi.

Light heavyweight Nik “The Greek” Charalampous (9-0, 5 KOs) outpointed Andy “The Junkyard Dog” Robinson (3-2, 2 KOs) over six rounds.

Heavyweight Izuagbe Ugonoh (10-0, 8 KOs) not surprisingly scored a second round TKO over Junior Iakopo (2-15-2, 1 KO).

NZ Herald - New Zealand Prime Minister, To’osavili John Key, had turned down the use of the “Honourable” title for former Minister, Labour's Taito Phillip Field, because he was jailed for corruption.

The issue emerged yesterday when To’osavili said that granting Judith Collins an "Honourable" title would have undermined an inquiry into her links to blogger Cameron Slater.

But he admitted it may have been oversight not to tell the former Justice Minister that she was not being given the title along with other former ministers.

Mrs. Collins was upset to be informed by media yesterday that she had not been granted the title of "Honourable" following her resignation in August.

She stood down after an email emerged which appeared to link her to a blog campaign to undermine Serious Fraud Office boss Adam Feeley.

To’osavili said there was nothing new about the decision not to award her the title while an investigation was ongoing.

"I think it would be very odd of me if I didn't act in that way because I would be subject to criticism that I was either undercutting the inquiry or pre-judging the inquiry."

He said that if he had granted her the "Honourable" title and then been forced to take it off her after the investigation, "media would be climbing down my throat telling me that I'd pre-judged an inquiry that's taken place".

To’osavili said that "in all probability" Mrs. Collins would be granted the title but he was treating the inquiry very seriously.

National Ministers who had been forced to resign in the past had still be granted the title, including Pansy Wong and Richard Worth.

The Prime Minister said it took between 16 and 18 months to decide whether these ministers kept their honorific.

Mr. Worth was granted the title after his resignation even though he was never cleared of allegations about sexual impropriety.

To’osavili said this was because Mr. Worth resigned over a judgement issue, not a legal issue.

"If their judgement has been poor but they're not convicted of a crime it's a general rule they've been able to keep it."

He had turned down the title for one former minister, Labour's Taito Phillip Field, who was jailed for corruption.

Mrs. Collins has publicly criticised To’osavili’s decision and the fact she was not told about it by his office.

Asked about her criticism, To’osavili said "that's a matter for her".

But he added: "In hindsight maybe my office should have talked her through the process. If we didn't do that ... it's an oversight.

"But in the end the real issue here is that there's nothing new, it's just the way we handle the process."

Think a minute…

James Macie was a child born outside of marriage. Tragically this marked him for the rest of his life as a second-class citizen in England’s 18th century society. Even though his biological father was Duke of Northumberland, James was never allowed to hold his father’s title. James’ mother tried to have his rightful honor in society restored, but the British government refused. Consequently, James was denied the rights of most ordinary citizens.

He could not enter Parliament, hold a public office, or get a job in civil service. He could not even join the Army or the Navy.

Shortly after James graduated from Pembroke College, he ambitiously started a career in science. The results of his many advanced experiments were published, and James became a highly respected scientist. Yet, while other scientists were recognized by the British government with knighthoods, James was denied that honor simply because of his birth.

James never married, knowing that his country would also reject his children because of him. However, he still gave to others a great inheritance. When James died in 1829, he was a very rich man. But instead of leaving his wealth to his own nation, he left all of his money to the United States. He disinherited England as it had disinherited him.

In his will, James instructed that his money be used to start an institution that would continue to discover and spread knowledge for humankind. His only condition was that it would carry on his family name which was taken away from him at birth. The name he adopted later in life: Smithson. And today the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s

largest museum and research complex. It has 19 museums, 9 research centers, and more than 140 affiliate museums around the world sharing with millions of people its cultural, historical, and scientific knowledge.

James used his “rejection to give him direction” to where he could invest his time, talents and treasures to make the world a better place. Just because you have felt rejected, it does not mean your life has no important purpose. On the contrary, if you sincerely ask your Maker to take charge of your heart and choices, Jesus, who will never reject you, will show you His great plan and purpose for your life…one day at a time. Just think a minute…

“The pain, grief and loss of your beloved Aneri. We know that nothing we can say will ease your pain. We know that your lives will be changed forever” – Joe Galuvao

Former NRL star Joe Galuvao has apologised to the family of a 16-year-old schoolgirl, allegedly run down and killed by his sister at a notorious Kogarah intersection.

Puipuimaota Galuvao, 26, of Como, wiped away tears as she appeared in Kogarah Local Court on Tuesday, charged with a string of offences including dangerous driving occasioning death, dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm and driving without a licence.

Aneri Patel, from Kogarah High School, died after the Mitsubishi Challenger four-wheel-drive Ms. Galuvao was driving crashed into the O’Reilly & Daly Chemist on Railway Parade about 11.25am on September 15.

The car, which demolished half the shop, also injured employee Suzanne Ferguson, and trapped 84-year-old customer Frederick Cook.

Ms. Galuvao, her female passenger and two children in the 4WD escaped relatively unscathed.
Police say she has never held a driver’s licence.

After a brief appearance in court, Ms Galuvao declined to comment but her brother, a two-time premiership winner, read a statement addressing the victims, their families and the proprietors of the pharmacy.

“To the Patel family, not a day goes by that we do not think about your family or what your family is going through,” Mr. Galuvao said.

“The pain, grief and loss of your beloved Aneri. We know that nothing we can say will ease your pain. We know that your lives will be changed forever”.

He also apologised to Ms. Ferguson and Mr. Cook for the physical and emotional injuries they suffered.

“We are truly sorry for the pain and anguish that you must be suffering,” he said.

“To the chemist - we would like to express our deepest regret for the damage caused to the business and loss of revenue. We have no doubt that you are suffering. We hope that all the damage can be repaired and that business returns as usual as soon as possible.

“We would also like to pass on our sympathies to everybody else who has been directly or indirectly impacted by what has happened; to extended family and friends of the Patel family, Suzanne and Frederick, as well as to the wider Kogarah community,” he said.

The incident followed a case in 2007, when fashion student Emma Hansen, 20, died and 11 people were injured when a learner driver at the wheel of a Toyota Echo crashed into a queue waiting at the same bus stop.

In the wake of Aneri’s death, Minister for Roads Duncan Gay announced that a range of safety measures including signal phasing, moving the bus stop, reviewing the speed limit and installing physical barriers, such as bollards, would be considered.

Ms. Galuvao’s bail was continued. She will appear in the Downing Centre Local Court on November 25.

“So we caught up in the changing room after his game on Wednesday, and it was sweet. It was like old mates again. He said, ‘Keep in touch and give my love to your dad’. – Joseph Parker

They are known as two of the most gentlemanly men in sports.

But heavyweight boxing champion Joseph Parker, 22, and multi-talented athlete Sonny Bill Williams, 29, put their long-simmering feud to one side after the Counties Manukau game on Wednesday and patched up their bromance. The bad blood is gone.

The former friends fell out last year after Williams turned down a million-dollar offer from Parker’s reps to put his New Zealand heavyweight boxing belt on the line, and take Parker on in the ring.

Boxing trash talk ensued between both camps, and Parker reckoned Williams didn’t take boxing seriously enough.

Cue the defriending.

SBW stopped following Parker on Twitter.

“We were good friends, really good friends,” Parker told The Diary.

“We helped each other out in preparation for our fights. He would help me with my sparring, and vice versa. We would send each other good luck messages before our fights. Our families knew each other, we were tight.

“But when Duco [Parker’s management] called him out, I think Sonny felt disrespected. And when I said I didn’t think you could be a part-time boxer, he was upset. He dropped me on social media”.

Time heals, as they say, and SBW put out the white flag.

Parker: “I sent a text to his cousin Tim Nanai-Williams, who’s in the Chiefs, and he told me to come to the game on Wednesday. ‘Sonny wants to see you,’ he said.

“So we caught up in the changing room after his game on Wednesday, and it was sweet. It was like old mates again. He said, ‘Keep in touch and give my love to your dad’.

“Sonny is one of the best athletes and he does well in whatever he puts his mind to. If he goes back into the ring, I wish him all the best”.

Will Parker go a few rounds with him?

“Nah, I don’t think that will ever happen”.

For now, Parker is gearing up for the highly anticipated bout tonight against Sherman “The Tank” Williams at Trusts Arena.

While “The Tank” has gone to ground, only seen at his hotel, The Quest in Parnell, and Boxing Alley, Parker, camped at the Pullman Hotel, is relaxed and planning his social diary.

“I’ve been invited to meet Justin Timberlake next week and I’m going to his concert”.

Nineteen Chiefs’ of Police from around the Pacific – including Samoa – are gathering in Auckland for the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police annual conference, hosted by New Zealand Police Commissioner, Mike Bush.

Samoa is represented Acting Police Commissioner, Fauono Talalelei Tapu.

The major focus of this year’s gathering is, Prevention through Regional Collaboration. As well as the re-admission of Fiji back into the fold now that it is no longer under military rule.

Commissioner Mike Bush says “The benefits of collaboration on law enforcement issues that affect the Pacific cannot be overstated”.

“This annual P.I.C.P. conference provides a valuable opportunity to assess ongoing actions within our work programmes and advance our thinking around Prevention”.

Cyber crime, illicit drugs, organised crime and family violence are common crime themes that will be addressed this week by the Pacific police leaders. A focus will also be placed on the development of more women into the various Police organisations.

“We will see strong leadership this week with the agreement of a new P.I.C.P. strategic plan. This plan has a strong preventative theme and innovative strategies that would be developed across the police organisations in the next five years.

“It’s very important that New Zealand Police in partnership with other jurisdictions continue to assist and develop Police organisations in Pacific Island countries. This will help to ensure law and order remains stable in all communities and

countries, and the Pacific remains safe and secure,” said Mr Bush

Conference delegates were welcomed this afternoon.

New Zealand Ambassador for the Pacific Economic Development, Shane Jones will officially open the conference.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.) lit up Mapuifagalele last week, with gifts for the senior citizens living at the Home.

The Chief Executive Officer of M.N.RE, Suluimalo Penaia Amataga, presented the Home with ten air condition units and dozens of light bulbs.

“The use of these electrical appliances will eliminate waste energy completely through using technologies to provide equivalent or better services with less energy and wise use,” he said.

“The idea is to find ways to conserve energy, thus helping the economy. This will also help in decreasing their electricity bill”.

“We did a survey and found they had a $20,000 bill per month and we want to assist them in reducing that cost”.

Talanu’upo Aukuso, of Mapuifagalele, was extremely grateful.

“May the Lord continue to bless the ministry, its General Manager and all the staff for this generous gift that you have given to us,” he said.

A social media course in Samoa that will teach people to use internet tools, blog, and help them use social media for their jobs is due to start in late October.

The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation EU-ACP (C.T.A), which works in agriculture and rural development in 78 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, is supporting the adoption of Web 2.0 applications and social media.

The Women in Business Development Inc., in collaboration with The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (S.P.C), the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (S.P.R.E.P), the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (M.A.F), the Pacific Environment Information Network (P.E.I.N) project, and C.T.A will host a 5-day Web 2.0 Learning Opportunity, on 27-31 October, 2014.

The course will cover advanced online searching, getting information served via alerts and RSS, collaborating remotely using Google Drive, Dropbox, VoIP, online mapping and social networking.

Participants will get a chance to see what others have done, get hands-on experience on how to use innovative applications, and assess how they could adopt these innovations within the context of their work and organisation.

Participation in the Learning Opportunity is free of charge, but subject to acceptance by the organisers. 25 participants will be accepted for the event.

Participants must be computer literate and conversant with browsing the Internet; have regular access to a computer (ownership of a computer is an advantage); be in a position to take along a WIFI-enabled laptop to the training; be competent in the use of the English language; have an active e-mail account; be actively engaged in agriculture and rural development / natural resource management / biodiversity conservation in the domains of I.C.T for development (ICT4D), policies, markets; publishing, communication and media; and be resident in Samoa.

Accepted participants will be responsible for all costs related to their travel to and from the venue, at the S.P.R.E.P/P.E.I.N Library & Information Resource Centre, Apia, Samoa, accommodation, breakfast and supper, daily subsistence allowances, and for bringing their own WIFI-enabled laptop to the event.

During each event, the organisers will provide lunch and refreshments and distribute copies of C.T.A publications and instructional material.

If you are interested in applying, please go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/wibdi-01 to complete the online form.