Poverty, depression and hardships are killing people in Samoa.

And the government should take the lead to address them.

So says Sociologist Pei Tauilii’li Reupena, who is a Counselor at the National Health Services (N.H.S) at Moto’otua. He is calling on the government leaders to work with villages, churches and family leaders to address the issues.

Pei raised the point when his opinion was sought over the spike in the number of suicide cases during the recent past. According to him, hardly a week has gone by during the past four months without a case of suicide.

“Poverty, traumatic events, depression and psychological pressure leads to suicide,” he tells the Samoa Observer.

“It leads to unstable psychological thinking and people usually struggle. If you’re successful, spiritually, physically, psychologically, you’re always happy.

“But if there are factors that stand in front of you and interrupt how you survive, it leads to poverty, sickness and sometimes suicide.”

Looking at Samoa today, Pei says far too many people are struggling to make ends meet. He estimates that about 90 per cent of families in Samoa are struggling with the cost of living, low incomes with many of them living in poverty.

Pei says this is a “disaster” and its impact is starting to show through people seeking what they feel is the easy way out of their problems.

“The truth is, many people are struggling to put food on table because of the lack of income,” says the Sociologist.

“What is happening right now is the gap between the rich and poor in Samoa is getting wide. Only between five to seven families in Samoa are enjoying this ‘economic success’.

They call it economic success, I call it a disaster.”

Pei says people like Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentarians, C.E.Os and their assistants are not affected by the economic climate because they are well looked after.

“But the majority of people who are not working, who are on lesser wages, are living below the poverty line because of inflation.

“We’ve got babies dying from malnutrition and it’s unusual. When I came here (last year), I was not expecting to hear this word (malnutrition). It’s a foreign language for me to hear (in Samoa).”

Being a Sociologist for 30 years, Pei says many people praise Samoa as being “good.”

He disagrees.

“Yes there’s an economic lifeline but a few people are enjoying it,” he says. “But I would say about 90 per cent are struggling socially and economically. They are very poor.”

Pei also points to the changing lifestyles.

“We used to get fish from the lagoon and food from the plantation but it’s hard now to get because they (families) are competing with shops and big businesses.”

One of the areas Pei studies is behavior, thoughts and feelings.

He says poverty doesn’t only affect people economically but it has a psychological effect, leading to suicide.

From his experience, the main contributing factors to suicide in Samoa are relationships and discipline. He explains that some relationships – including same sex relationships - are not accepted by parents and villages.

Pei also highlights what he describes as a “youth cultural crisis” as one of the major problems for Samoa today.

“They are so confused they don’t understand the cross cultural application in between,” he said.

He recalls in the early 90s when youth established a “youth culture” in Auckland.

“It was so bad because when young people from here went to New Zealand, they got sucked in the palagi system and started questioning their traditions and their own way of living,” says Pei.

“What it did is it promoted what is called a youth cultural concept…that was the dilemma our youth needed to learn about the different world and different culture concept.

“It was hard for them because they got sucked in the modern youth culture that was so attractive to them.”

Returning to Samoa, Pei says he finds that there is a huge gap between the youth in Samoa and New Zealand in terms of respect.

“The whole issue of respect is absolutely low here (from youths),” says Pei.

“There is much more discipline in youths in New Zealand and Australia compared to here because they have good youth programmes.

“I’m a social worker and I look at social lifestyles of people. The concept of respect in culture and sometimes disrespect of culture is quite high here.”

Pei recommends more programmes whereby young people can work the Fa’ataua le Ola, the Ministry of Women Community and Social Development and other organisations as part of the solution.

He also says is important that villages, churches and parents are involved to bring together their expertise to tackle issues at the centre of the youth crisis and suicide.

Pei has worked in the Auckland Hospital and Health Consultant for Pacific Island Transcultural Mental Health in Queensland.

He returned to Samoa last year and is part of the newly established Sociologist Department of the National Health Services. He was a Medical Lab technician for nine years at N.H.S before he left to study.

“Africa is a big place and the officers are on the other side. So far there is no ebola in Sudan. If there was any ebola in the area (Sudan) we would’ve withdrawn them.”

The Acting Commissioner of Police, Nafo’itoa Tala’imanu Keti, yesterday dispelled fears about the possibility of ebola entering the country through returning Police officers who have been on peacekeeping mission.

The Commissioner was contacted for a comment after an official raised concerns about police peacekeepers from Samoa who have been working in Northern Africa, namely Sudan.

“Africa is a big place and the officers are on the other side,” said Nafo’itoa. “So far there is no ebola in Sudan. If there was any ebola in the area (Sudan) we would’ve withdrawn them.”

Besides, Nafo’itoa said there are also U.N. officials there monitoring the officers.

“They would keep up informed because we are also concerned about the virus and we don’t want any carriers.

“The Police officers also report back to us on a daily basis.”

As of yesterday, reports show that most of the more than 4,000 deaths from ebola have been recorded in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea. The outbreak has also affected Nigeria and Senegal. The distance between Sudan and Sierra Leone is 4,607 km.

The alarm was raised towards the end of an ebola session held at the F.A.O conference room yesterday. An official claimed that a police officer who has recently returned from Sudan was “sick.” The official did not say what the sickness was but wondered if the authorities were prepared for the worst.

Asked about this, Nafo’itoa said there are 14 Samoan Police officers serving in Sudan. Two of them have returned home for a break before they return for duty.

“But I can assure you that they are free from ebola,” he said, adding that the authorities are keeping a close watch on the officers who are away on missions.

“Their safety is paramount to us,” he said.

At the ebola session yesterday, Dr. Baoping Yang, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Representative in Samoa, presented detailed information on all aspects of the ebola virus disease (E.V.D).

For Samoa, the key question was about the state of preparedness to deal with any suspected case.

Dr. Yang revealed that a simulation activity had already taken place in Samoa, despite the relatively low risk of occurrence here.

The activity saw health care professionals taken step by step through the W.H.O protocols to be applied to any case of suspected ebola infection.

A suspected or ‘alert’ case is defined by the W.H.O as a person presenting with illness with onset of fever and no response to treatment of usual causes of fever in the area, OR at least one of the following signs: bleeding, bloody diarrhoea, bleeding into urine OR any sudden death.

To date, there have been no identified cases of ebola in the Pacific region although eight countries around the world had investigated patients considered to be at risk.

A question from the floor concerned the possibility that Samoan flying foxes or fruit bats may also be hosts for the virus. The meeting was told that there is no cause for alarm since the indigenous fruit bats, Pteropus samoensis, P. tonganus and a small insect-eating bat, Emballonura semicaudata, are not the same species as the West African bats.

According to the Ministry of Health’s Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Tuliau Dr. Saine Vaai, the risk of ebola reaching Samoa is low.

But that doesn't mean the authorities are relaxed about it.

She said health workers are on alert and they are well aware about what is at stake.

“We are networking with the W.H.O and Samoa is low risk,” said Tuliau. “The Ministry has its own preparations and international health regulations being implemented on the ground have been very effective.”

Tuliau said the Ministry of Health has been working with other government agencies to monitor arrivals at different ports of entry.

“We are monitoring it with a system in the region in place where we keep in contact (with health officials) via email and the internet.”

The A.C.E.O said it was important that people understand what Ebola is and its deadly effect.

Lastly, she said the Ministry would issue a press release on information that the public needs to know about the deadly virus. Further information on ebola can be found on the W.H.O website.

Agriculture and Fisheries is the source of food and therefore, it is the source of life.

The point was highlighted by the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Le Mamea Ropati Mualia, during the commemoration of World Food Day in Savai’i on Thursday.

World Food Day, he said, is a reminder to everyone about the need to have food in sufficient quantities and quality for healthy living.

“The one reason that put Agriculture and Fisheries in the forefront of development in all countries of the world is the needed of food,” he said.

“As they say in India; ‘No farmer, no food.” And I feel the same could also be said of food; ‘No farmer, no food” He added that this is indeed a fact of life.

“I wish to congratulate and thank all farmers and fishers of Samoa for your invaluable contributions in meeting the food need of our people.”

FAO Sub-Regional Representative in Samoa, Dr Gavin Wall, delivered the World Food Day message from Director General of FAO, Tagaloa Jose da Silva.

“In recognition of the importance and significance of family farming, this year has been designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Family Farming and so World Food Day has taken up the same theme,” he said.

“This enables us to celebrate the contribution family farmers make to food security and sustainable development.”

“In every sense, they feed the world and care for the earth.”

He said that family farmers play crucial sovio-economic, environmental and cultural roles which, amid serious challenges, need to be cherished and strengthened through innovation.

“This is particularly the case across the Pacific, and in Samoa, where a large proportion of the population lives in rural communities.”

“At the most simple level, change is being driven by the evolution of our global food system, over the last few decades profound changes have happened in the way food is produced, traded and consumed.”

What do more than 400 young rugby players and two former Manu Samoa captains have in common?

Well, if you were at the Pesega grounds yesterday, you would have found that whereas the young players are hungry for opportunities to develop their talents on and off the field, the two former Manu Samoa players are equally determined to help them find those opportunities.

For former Manu Samoa captain Mahonri Schwalger, Rugby Academy Samoa, is his dream but he is quick to say that it is not about himself or anyone else for that matter.

“It’s the simple reason why we’ve just called it Rugby Academy Samoa,” he said. “Rugby Academy Samoa is for Samoa and the focus is the development of those young players so that they could get an opportunity for scholarships to overseas clubs and schools.”

Another former Manu Samoa captain, George Stowers, shares Schwalger’s dream.

But he sees the Academy reaching beyond rugby and career development.

Addressing the players yesterday, Stowers was straight to the point.

“Don’t waste your time fighting around town,” he said. “Instead use your time wisely with school, in your family and sports. We are here to give you an opportunity to help yourself, your family and your community.”

Schwalger, Stowers and another Manu Samoa teammate, Fa’aofo Junior Leota, are three of many passionate faces behind the Academy, which already has the backing of two super rugby franchises in New Zealand, Waikato Chiefs and the Wellington Hurricanes.

While yesterday was one of the Academy’s first public drills, the groundwork started many months ago when Schwalger returned to Samoa for his family. He and his team have been visiting schools, especially in the rural areas, identifying raw talent in 15-17 years-old age bracket.

“I was amazed by the raw potential,” Schwalger said. “They had size, they had talent but all they need is professional development.

These players are playing rugby in the villages and they were excited at the prospect of getting a scholarship.”

So excited were the players, the turn out yesterday was way higher than what was expected. From a list of 240, they narrowed it down to 111. At Pesega yesterday, however, more than 400 players turned up and registered.

The players were put through their paces through basic drills where 80 will be picked for the Academy. As a starting point, these players will train with the Academy twice a week.

“We want to give everyone a chance,”

Schwalger said. “This is a brand new academy and it is something that was in my heart to come to Samoa and do so that others like myself and George Stowers can give back to the community.”

Schwalger said there is a lot of passion for rugby in Samoa but in this day and age of professional rugby, passion no longer cuts it.

“We have very few opportunities available for them to showcase their talents. The academy fills in that gap to provide some avenue for young talent from Samoa to reach the next level in their game. What we are looking at is those with attitude or know how to discipline themselves.”

Schwalger said the chosen 80 would be given proper training and will become eligible for scholarships to play rugby and study overseas.

Gaps left by players who get picked up will be refilled using other local players.

“Our goal is to up skill these stars of Samoa for the future so that they not only have good opportunities in rugby, but they also get the education they need.”

“The fact is, if we push them in opportunities like this, it will help their families in many ways and of course the whole country.”

Asked if the Samoa Rugby Union was involved; Schwalger said: “Well no but this will benefit the Union and other clubs in Samoa.”

One of the parents present yesterday;

Fa’atoia Tulia, thanked Schwalger and the Samoa Rugby Academy for the initiative.

“What I like about this Academy is that it is run by people with proven track records in rugby and people who have a real heart for Samoa,” he said.

“I came this morning thinking that it was just a rugby thing but I’ve heard that education is a key part of it and I thought what an awesome idea it is. So I wish them all the best.

“The future outlook should be great if we continue on this path of accountability and good governance” – Controller and Chief Auditor, Fuimaono Camillo Afele

The man whose report revealed allegations of “corrupt practises” that had apparently been perpetrated within certain government corporations over a number of years is optimistic.

Controller and Chief Auditor, Fuimaono Camillo Afele, tells the Sunday Samoan the mere fact that his 2009/2010 Report to Parliament has been widely discussed both inside and outside of the House is a step in the right direction.

“We are happy with the improvements being made from Parliament and government since the 2009/2010 report to Parliament,” Chief

Auditor Fuimaono says. “This is a continuous process of good governance and accountability. It does not stop with just one report to parliament.”

Fuimaono’s opinion was sought over concerns persistently highlighted by some Members of Parliament – including government M.Ps - that the government has yet to address the report in question.

When Fuimaono’s report was tabled, it was referred to the Officers of Parliament Committee (O.P.C) for an investigation.

The Committee has since confirmed a number of the allegations of corruption raised by Fuimaono. Chaired by Associate Minister, Muagututagata Peter Ah Him, the Committee’s findings were tabled in Parliament at the beginning of the year.

The report from the O.P.C recommended that Parliament take the “appropriate legal actions” against “all those who are involved in this investigation to ensure corrupt practice and that relevant provisions of the law (are followed through).”

About the “corrupt practises” uncovered at the Samoa Land Corporation (S.L.C), O.P.C recommended:

Firstly, “On the examination of the overall evidence, it is reasonable to state that due to the seriousness of discrepancies and corrupt practices reported in the Chief Auditor’s Report, and that the Committee has confirmed these matters from its findings, Government is therefore recommended that these Committee findings as mentioned in the report be noted, and appropriate legal actions be implemented and applied to all those who are involved in this investigation to ensure corrupt practice and that relevant provisions of the law.”

Secondly, “That Government take seriously, the usage by the Samoa Land Corporation (S.L.C.), or any other Government Ministry or Corporation, of the so called “intermediary company” (Middleman), for any services or the procurement of goods or fixed assets, and to strengthen the adherence to Government procurement policies under the terms and conditions for the purchase of fixed assets, including bids in the tender process.”

Thirdly, “That Government take note seriously of the Tender System using design and build concept, which allows corrupt practice or prejudice, especially in the interpretation and reading of design plans. The Committee believes, that the provision of an actual plan at the beginning of the Tender process, gives the notion that this is the same job that will be done, with all the contractors witnessing, and in that respect, all the contractors will have equal opportunities at the tender that will be made. With this in mind, that will make things easier and the final decision of the Tender will be very transparent.”

The law requires that the government be given 90 days from when the O.P.C report was tabled to respond. That period expired in August with the Speaker of the House, La’auli Leuatea Polata’ivao granting the government an extension for its response.

Earlier this year, a member of the O.P.C and the Chairman of the Public Finance Committee, Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, threatened to go to Court to make sure public servants he claims have “defrauded” taxpayers through “collusion” and acts of “corrupt practises” are held accountable.

“I have the things here signed by the Minister all ready for Court if required,” Papali’i said. “I can safely say that collusion to defraud public funds has been done. So it’s not the end, it’s just the beginning.”

According to Papali’i, the O.P.C “didn’t make up these recommendations for nothing. They need to be implemented and (put to) action.”

Asked if it was not enough that a Cabinet Minister has resigned, he said: “Well, if justice is not only seen but being done, it has to go to Court. Millions of tala have been…”

Pressed about going to Court, Papali’i said: “Oh yes, because our Committee will stand firm together. "It’s our report, a joint Committee (report) not just me or the Chairman. This is a report paid for by taxpayers. We spent a lot of time (to put it together).”

“The government pays us a lot of overtime allowances to (do this). This report took us about five to six months to investigate and to prepare. It took us a long time to make sure that we have all the evidence and supporting witnesses that we need to ask questions and confirm all these irregularities raised by the Auditor.”

Parliament is due to reconvene on Tuesday this week where the issue is expected to be raised.

Meantime, Chief Auditor Fuimaono says the aftermath of his initial report in question shows that the checks and balances for democracy are operating in Samoa.

“There are a lot of parties involved,” he says. “Parliament authorises Government to govern. Government accounts for its governance.”

“Audit Office audits and reports to parliament and then Parliament demands accountability and corrective action from Government through its official response.”

“The public/citizens is informed through live broadcasts of parliamentary meetings and other media like (Samoa) Observer picking up reports from parliament and public entities websites for engaging citizens/public in the good governance and accountability process.”

“(So) there has been a lot of improvement.”

Fuimaono also points out that the report to Parliament for 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 covered audits going back to 2008 and 2009, which means “you would expect things to start turning around in 2012/2013.”

Besides, since the 2009 and 2010 report, four other reports have been prepared.

“We are now almost 100% up-to-date in our financial statements, audits and reports to Parliament because of the cooperation and assistance from Ministries, Public Bodies, Constitutional and Parliamentary Offices and other Offices of the State,” he says.

“The future outlook should be great if we continue on this path of accountability and good governance.”

The Chairman of Avele College’s 90th Celebration Committee, Tuia Paepae Letoa, has rubbished questions surrounding the audited report from the celebration.

Tuia in fact is so unhappy about members of the Avele College Old Pupils Association (A.C.O.P.A) who have raised the issue in the media; he is threatening to take legal action.

“The allegations from other members being made through the media is all personal,” Tuia said.

“They have defamed us and I wasn’t approached to give a comment to have a fair and balanced report."

“It has tarnished my reputation and others. I am looking at taking legal action because they have claimed that there is $100,000 missing but there is no proof for such defamatory words.”

The Chairman is also deeply sad that some of the members who “have taken the matter personally” had little appreciation of the work he and his Committee had done during celebration.

Tuia flatly denied any wrongdoing in handling the funds for the event.

“There was no mismanagement of money and the auditor’s report doesn’t imply that,” said Tuia. “The seven days celebration was fundraising for the event and whatever money was left was to finance a project for the school."

“Unfortunately, the money collected wasn’t enough for that…there were too many spectators but not enough players.”

The Auditor’s report in question was prepared by Maiava Visesio Lino, of Visesio Asiasi’au Lino Public Accountant Auditor & Tax Agent.

The report, which has been obtained by the Sunday Samoan, shows a total income of $219, 634.00. The total expenditure was $209, 334.00, leaving excess income over expenditure of $10, 300.

“In my opinion, the Financial Statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of Avele College 90th Anniversary as at 22 September 2014 and of the allied Statements on the date,” said Auditor Maiava in his report.

“I have obtained all the information and explanations that I have required. In my opinion, the 90th Anniversary Oganising Committee has kept proper books of account and the Financial Statements have been properly drawn up in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards and to give the information so required in the prescribed manner by the Samoa Institute of Accountants Act 2006.”

Tuia said the audited report clearly shows him and his Committee have nothing to hide. Members of A.C.O.P.A are welcome to obtain a copy, he said.

The report, however, was rejected and refuted.

In a letter to another Auditor, Su’a Rimoni Ah Chong, President of A.C.O.P.A for 2013/2014, Su’a Mulitalo Fruean requested to have the audited report submitted for re-auditing.

It was not possible to get a comment from Su’a Fruean as he is in New Zealand.

But his letter, obtained by the Sunday Samoan, reads:

“As President of the 2014 ACOPA AGM, I wish to inform you that ACOPA held its annual general meeting on 10.30am Saturday 11th October 2014 at the Samoa Nurses Hall.

One of the controversial items on the agenda is the above named report that was tabled in the meeting. Here is the outcome:

AGM resolution:

1. ACOPA members by majority refute and reject the authenticity of the 90th Years Celebration Audit Report presented by Tuia Paepae Letoa and Samau Ieru Lokeni.

2. ACOPA members by majority agreed to the audit report to be submitted for re-auditing to seek a second opinion from Su’a Rimoni Ah Chong who is currently ACOPA’s auditor.

3. ACOPA Executive to call a special AGM to discuss the re-audited report once completed.

“In this connection, I have attached herewith the full report submitted by the Sub Committee to the AGM for your initial perusal…”

Asked about having the statement re-audited, Tuia objected.

Reminding that all the money has been accounted for, Tuia said he does not agree with the motion to have the report re-audited by Su’a Rimoni.
“There is a conflict of interest between us (Tuia and Su’a Rimoni),” he said. “We’ve had three court cases against each other and to me that is a conflict between us. Another thing is that Su’a (Rimoni) was not approved in our minutes to be the auditor.”

It was not possible to get a comment from Su’a Rimoni yesterday.

The newly elected A.C.O.P.A President 2014/2015, Tupa’i Albert Atoa, declined to comment when he was approached about the issue.

He said the A.C.O.P.A Executive was scheduled to have a meeting where “everything will be discussed.” The Executive is made up of President Tupa’i, Vice President, Tuiafelolo John Stanley, Secretary, Samau Ieru Lokeni, Treasurer, Papali’i

Tala Maiava and members Su’a Henry Fruean, Tofilau Fa’amanu Ivara, Lupe Vaovasa Toilolo, Asuao Kirifi Pouono, Flo Faaso’o and Te’o Faitele Afamasaga.

“I will let you know the outcome,” said Tupa’i.

The Sunday Samoan was also informed that Tupa’i has rebuked public comments made by Su’a Fruean in relation to the matter.

He has apparently written to him, notifying him that the comments do not reflect the opinion of A.C.O.P.A and that possible legal action would be his personal responsibility since the A.C.O.P.A did not resolve for the matter to be made public.

Think a minute…

A recent survey of questions was given to thousands of people. Their names were not known or recorded so they would answer the questions honestly. Out of all these people, 91% said they regularly tell lies. Half of them call in to their jobs and say they’re sick when they’re not sick at all.

In fact, over half of all stealing from stores and businesses is done by their own employees. Another question was this: “What are you willing to do for $10 million?” 25% of the people said they would leave their mate and children, and 7% said they would murder a stranger for $10 million.

So in a crowd of 1000 people, there are 70 people who would kill you for $10 million.
Think about it!

I asked myself: How much like those average citizens am I? Have I lied to family or friends? Stolen from my workplace?

Have I cheated in school or on my taxes? Broken any of my promises? If I was guaranteed I could get away with anything I wanted, what would I do? What is my conscience, self-respect, and good character worth?

A famous writer said: “Honesty is like art: you have to draw the line somewhere.”

But the problem is who draws the line? Me by myself? My circumstances and situation? You see, since all we humans have rebelled and chosen to live our own way, lying, cheating and stealing now come rather naturally to us. We do whatever it takes to get what we want.

And if we don’t, most people think we’re weak and foolish! That’s actually how confused we’ve become.

It all starts with the little dishonest things we say and do regularly.

We think it’s just a little white lie or small thing we stole.

But soon, being dishonest becomes our way of living.

Yet, no matter how much money and prestige we have, we’ve become the poorest person there is.

You see, it’s impossible to escape the painful penalty and consequences of all our dishonesty in life—except for one way: Ask Jesus Christ to forgive you for your dishonest heart and way of living.

Then ask Him to help you start changing everyday to become a truly wealthy person of integrity.

Then He will give you the greatest success in life you can ever have.

Just Think a Minute…

PR - Former Toa Samoa and new Kiwi prop, Suaia Matagi, has made a bold promise.

Should he line up against his former countrymen in the Four Nations tournament kicking off this weekend, Matagi will sing the national anthems of both countries.

"That's what I did at the World Cup when we played the Kiwis,” he said.

“I was singing the Kiwis anthem in my heart. I'm New Zealand born and proud to be Samoan too so I'll sing both."

Matagi and Kiwi halfback Shaun Johnson attended the NZRL's unveiling on Friday of a new Kiwis jersey, which features a motif inspired by Maori and Pacific influences.

The new design struck a chord with Matagi, 26, who last week had his change of allegiance from Samoa to New Zealand approved by the Rugby League International Federation.

He was excited at the possibility of lining up against his old team in what could be one of his first outings for the Kiwis, when they meet

Samoa in Whangarei for their second match.

"Just seeing it now for the first time, it would be a real honour and hopefully I can pull on the jersey against Samoa. That would mean a lot," Matagi said.

"This is a dream come true for me, just to be in the squad. To finally learn the IRLF have given the thumbs up, I'm really excited to get into camp."

Despite Samoa initially protesting against New Zealand's claim to the damaging front-rower, Matagi said he had made the switch to the Kiwis with their approval.

"They understood the opportunity that was there for me and I had a good talk with Samoa coach Matt Parish and he told me to go for it."

Johnson says his side face a tough start to their Four Nations campaign after the bulk of their squad spent the past six weeks out of action. With the Warriors season ending in a miserable 22-6 loss to Penrith on September 7, the New

Zealand-based Kiwis squad members have been keeping up their fitness work over the past month but Johnson says training can't replicate match conditioning.

"It's been a pretty tough few weeks just training, sort of like a pre-season, but we've got through that and now we're looking forward to getting over there and meeting all the boys," Johnson explained.

"We've worked pretty hard and pushed each other and while it's probably not as good as playing games, we've been doing our best after what happened at the end of our season, so we're looking forward to playing."

"The real test for us will be with the ball in hand and our timing. You can't help it, [timing] is just going to be off. "I had three weeks off during the season and when I came back it just didn't feel right so it's going to take a game to get that back.

It just sort of sucks that it's against Australia."

With head coach Stephen Kearney and assistant David Kidwell dividing their time between training sessions in Brisbane and Sydney, the New Zealand-based group have been put through their paces by Warriors trainer Andrew Souter.

"He's a guy that we all know pretty well and he's done a really good job. Just a lot of short and sharp sessions with a lot of repetitive speed work and using the ball while you're fatigued. We do a lot of work and then try and get out and try and do some skill." The Kiwis open their Four Nations account against Australia at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on October 25.

PR - Former Toa Samoa and new Kiwi prop, Suaia Matagi, has made a bold promise.

Should he line up against his former countrymen in the Four Nations tournament kicking off this weekend, Matagi will sing the national anthems of both countries.

"That's what I did at the World Cup when we played the Kiwis,” he said.

“I was singing the Kiwis anthem in my heart. I'm New Zealand born and proud to be Samoan too so I'll sing both."

Matagi and Kiwi halfback Shaun Johnson attended the NZRL's unveiling on Friday of a new Kiwis jersey, which features a motif inspired by Maori and Pacific influences.

The new design struck a chord with Matagi, 26, who last week had his change of allegiance from Samoa to New Zealand approved by the Rugby League International Federation.

He was excited at the possibility of lining up against his old team in what could be one of his first outings for the Kiwis, when they meet

Samoa in Whangarei for their second match.

"Just seeing it now for the first time, it would be a real honour and hopefully I can pull on the jersey against Samoa. That would mean a lot," Matagi said.

"This is a dream come true for me, just to be in the squad. To finally learn the IRLF have given the thumbs up, I'm really excited to get into camp."

Despite Samoa initially protesting against New Zealand's claim to the damaging front-rower, Matagi said he had made the switch to the Kiwis with their approval.

"They understood the opportunity that was there for me and I had a good talk with Samoa coach Matt Parish and he told me to go for it."

Johnson says his side face a tough start to their Four Nations campaign after the bulk of their squad spent the past six weeks out of action. With the Warriors season ending in a miserable 22-6 loss to Penrith on September 7, the New

Zealand-based Kiwis squad members have been keeping up their fitness work over the past month but Johnson says training can't replicate match conditioning.

"It's been a pretty tough few weeks just training, sort of like a pre-season, but we've got through that and now we're looking forward to getting over there and meeting all the boys," Johnson explained.

"We've worked pretty hard and pushed each other and while it's probably not as good as playing games, we've been doing our best after what happened at the end of our season, so we're looking forward to playing."

"The real test for us will be with the ball in hand and our timing. You can't help it, [timing] is just going to be off. "I had three weeks off during the season and when I came back it just didn't feel right so it's going to take a game to get that back.

It just sort of sucks that it's against Australia."

With head coach Stephen Kearney and assistant David Kidwell dividing their time between training sessions in Brisbane and Sydney, the New Zealand-based group have been put through their paces by Warriors trainer Andrew Souter.

"He's a guy that we all know pretty well and he's done a really good job. Just a lot of short and sharp sessions with a lot of repetitive speed work and using the ball while you're fatigued. We do a lot of work and then try and get out and try and do some skill." The Kiwis open their Four Nations account against Australia at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on October 25.

It’s been a great week for us,” Toa Samoa Team Manager, Andrew Farrar, said. “We’ve now received the country’s blessings, we’ve experienced the culture and we are going back to Australia with much appreciation about what we are playing for, and who
we are representing.”

The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, has given his blessing to the Toa Samoa Rugby league team, days away from the opening of the Four Nations Tournament.

His Highness and Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia, met the team at Tuaefu before they flew to Australia.

During the meeting, His Highness encouraged the players to be brave and never forget that more than 180,000 Samoans in Samoa, and thousands more around the world are praying for them.

He urged them to play as a team and give it their all.

The tournament, which begins this weekend, is a historical occasion for Samoa.

It is the first time Toa Samoa has qualified for the Four Nations.

But it is a mountain of a hill for the Toa boys to climb. The tournament only involves the best teams in the world.

Samoa will play England this weekend, followed by New Zealand and the defending world champions, Australia.

As part of their preparations, coach Matt Parish and the team filled with NRL stars came to Samoa to get the blessings of the country.

They camped out at the Return to Paradise Resort, Lefaga, where they trained at some of the local primary schools, promoting rugby league in the process.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Manager, Andrew Farrar said the team is confident knowing that Samoa is fully behind them.

“It’s been a great week for us,” he said. “We’ve now received the country’s blessings, we’ve experienced the culture and we are going back to Australia with a bit more appreciation about what we are playing for and who we are representing.”

With England up first, Farrar again conceded that Samoa has a mountain of work to do.

“It’s a big challenge ahead and for us to do well, we have to do a lot of work,” he said.

“The team is well prepared. We’ve running through the combinations and working on things we wanted to improve on so we have high hopes.” On the other hand, Farrar said Toa Samoa needs more regular test matches.

“It’s the same everywhere else, we need more regular competition and we need good games to develop our players. Obviously with international matches, it is a different level than NRL so we need more time together.”

Toa Samoa is taking a 23-man squad to the tournament. The Toa Samoa squad: Leeson Ah Mau (St George Illawarra Dragons), David Fa’alogo (Newcastle Knights), Pita Godinet (Wakefield Trinity Wildcats), Tim Lafai (Canterbury-Bankstown

Bulldogs), Joey Leilua (Newcastle Knights), Isaac Liu (Sydney Roosters), DunamisLui (Manly Sea Eagles), Penani Manumalealii (Cronulla Sharks), MoseMasoe (St Helens), Peter Mata’utia (St George Illawarra Dragons), Reni Maitua

(Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs), Tautau Moga (North Queensland Cowboys), Dominique Peyroux (New Zealand Warriors), Frank Pritchard (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs), Ben Roberts (Melbourne Storm), Tim Simona (Wests Tigers),

Michael Sio (New Zealand Warriors), Kyle Stanley (St George Illawarra Dragons), Sauaso Sue (Wests Tigers), Sam Tagataese (Cronulla Sharks), Daniel Vidot (Brisbane Broncos), Antonio Winterstein (North Queensland Cowboys), Josh

McGuire (Brisbane Broncos)

The Samoan flag flew high and proud during a full-day blockade of the Newcastle Coal Port in Australia on Friday.

Declaring themselves “Pacific Climate Warriors,” representatives from a dozen Pacific Island nations including Samoa—sitting atop traditional outrigger canoes, kayaks, and other small boats—staged a full-day blockade.

They did this as they sent a message to the government of Prime Minister Tony Abbott and the world that they will not sit idly by as the activities of the fossil fuel industry and its backers continue to threaten the existence of their low-lying homes.

Scores of boats and hundreds of protesters participated in the blockade, paddling beyond buoys marking the shipping lanes and placing themselves between the port terminal and the coal tankers moving in and out of the harbour. Police on jetskis reportedly intervened by creating waves, stripping the boaters of their paddles, and then tugging boats back towards shore.

The international climate action group 350.org, which helped organize the blockade, maintained a live blog for the action, including updates and pictures.

And Twitter users were documenting the action under the hashtag #StandupforthePacific:

Though Australia environmentalists have staged similar protests in the past at the Newcastle Coal Port—the largest such facility in the world—this is the first time they’ve been joined by Pacific Islanders in such a way.

The island nations represented in Friday’s flotilla include: Samoa, Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands, Fiji, The Marshall Islands,

Tonga, Tokelau, Niue, Kiribati, Vanuatu, The Federated States of Micronesia and Tuvalu.

“The coal which leaves this port has a direct impact on our culture and our islands,” said the Warriors in a joint statement.

“It is clear to us that this is the kind of action which we must take in order to survive. Climate change is an issue which affects everyone and coal companies may expect further actions like this in future.”

Mikaele Maiava, a warrior from Tokelau, said that after years of failed global climate negotiations it was essential for the Warriors to take direction action to stop climate change.

“It is very important for us to take direct actions against climate change because it is threatening our lives and our islands. Our land is the most valuable treasure in our lives and the impacts of climate change will destroy it. We don’t want this to happen and we will not allow it to happen.”

And George Nacewa, a 350.org activist from Fiji, told Reuters: “This is important today because we are here to highlight the effects of climate change across our islands. We are not willing to drown because of climate change. We are trying to change the narrative from ‘we are drowning’ to ‘we are not drowning, we are fighting’.”

As the Guardian reports:

Kayakers were not permitted to go beyond yellow markers just a short distance offshore, but almost immediately a large number paddled past them into the middle of the waterway.

Within half an hour, the bulk carrier, Rhine, appeared, being pulled out of the port by tugs. Protesters quickly formed a blockade, hampered on one side by police boats. Police officers used boats to push the light watercraft back, and took jetskis around canoes to create wake and spray. The 225-metre vessel was delayed for a short time until police cleared the way.

One 47-year-old kayaker, Donna Bartlett, claimed a police officer on a jetski made contact with her bright orange kayak, knocking it against another and dislocating her finger. She said jetskis on either side of a group were sending protesters in opposite directions, causing chaos.

“The jetskis come, trying to get us unbalanced,” she said. “I’m scared today but I know the stakes.”

Zana Kobayashi, 25, from Newcastle, said she’d joined the protest because the federal government “doesn’t seem to be doing anything to address concerns [about climate change].”

Kobayashi, who was in a double kayak, said police on the water confiscated their paddles and towed them out of the way of the ship. When protesters began returning to shore, another officer towed them in. She said there were “a few aggressive characters” among the police officers.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who earlier this week declared that “coal was good for humanity,” was a frequent target of criticism throughout the day among those at Newcastle:

We know the palolo is a delicacy but is it really worth $600, $800 or $1,000 per container? That was perhaps the most frequently asked question among hunters and lovers of the rare sea worm at the sight of containers of palolo being sold for such amounts all over the country during the weekend.

It wasn't an uncommon scenario to be asked by a palolo seller for a container of the fish for $600.

Most of them came from Savai’i where palolo was apparently in abundance. At the Savalalo Fish Market, Fouvale Falemoe, from

Satupa’itea, Savai’i couldn’t stop smiling. She had three containers selling for more than $600 each. On top of that, she also had bundles, each going for $50 a pop. But why so expensive? “Because the palolo is very hard to find,” she said. “It’s not easy to catch the palolo and if people really want it, well they have to go out there and get it themselves. “If not, we get it, we sell it and they take it.” In Samoa, palolo can be fished under a full moon only in October and early November. This is when the worm spawns. For Mrs. Falemoe, who is a mother of seven children, last week was her biggest pay day. She says she is a regular palolo hunter every year.

“This is the only time of the year that we can enjoy this delicacy. I know there are people who will also spend a lot of money just to be able to enjoy a bundle or container of it.

“Besides, I have also travelled from a very long way to provide the palolo to people here and I need to make enough money to get back to Savai’i.”

Only four of the twelve ships, including two coal ships, scheduled to pass through the port were able to break the blockade lead by a group of Pacific Climate Warriors representing 12 Pacific Island nations

The Samoan flag flew high and proud during a full-day blockade of the Newcastle Coal Port in Australia on Friday.

Declaring themselves “Pacific Climate Warriors,” representatives from a dozen Pacific Island nations including Samoa—sitting atop traditional outrigger canoes, kayaks, and other small boats—staged a full-day blockade.

They did this as they sent a message to the government of Prime Minister Tony Abbott and the world that they will not sit idly by as the activities of the fossil fuel industry and its backers continue to threaten the existence of their low-lying homes.

Scores of boats and hundreds of protesters participated in the blockade, paddling beyond buoys marking the shipping lanes and placing themselves between the port terminal and the coal tankers moving in and out of the harbour. Police on jetskis reportedly intervened by creating waves, stripping the boaters of their paddles, and then tugging boats back towards shore.
The international climate action group 350.org, which helped organize the blockade, maintained a live blog for the action, including updates and pictures.

And Twitter users were documenting the action under the hashtag #StandupforthePacific:

Though Australia environmentalists have staged similar protests in the past at the Newcastle Coal Port—the largest such facility in the world—this is the first time they’ve been joined by Pacific Islanders in such a way.

The island nations represented in Friday’s flotilla include: Samoa, Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands, Fiji, The Marshall Islands, Tonga, Tokelau, Niue, Kiribati, Vanuatu, The Federated States of Micronesia and Tuvalu. “The coal which

leaves this port has a direct impact on our culture and our islands,” said the Warriors in a joint statement.

“It is clear to us that this is the kind of action which we must take in order to survive. Climate change is an issue which affects everyone and coal companies may expect further actions like this in future.”

Mikaele Maiava, a warrior from Tokelau, said that after years of failed global climate negotiations it was essential for the Warriors to take direction action to stop climate change.
“It is very important for us to take direct actions against climate change because it is threatening our lives and our islands. Our land is the most valuable treasure in our lives and the impacts of climate change will destroy it. We don’t want this to happen and we will not allow it to happen.”

And George Nacewa, a 350.org activist from Fiji, told Reuters: “This is important today because we are here to highlight the effects of climate change across our islands. We are not willing to drown because of climate change. We are trying to change the narrative from ‘we are drowning’ to ‘we are not drowning, we are fighting’.” As the Guardian reports:

Kayakers were not permitted to go beyond yellow markers just a short distance offshore, but almost immediately a large number paddled past them into the middle of the waterway.

Within half an hour, the bulk carrier, Rhine, appeared, being pulled out of the port by tugs. Protesters quickly formed a blockade, hampered on one side by police boats. Police officers used boats to push the light watercraft back, and took jetskis around canoes to create wake and spray. The 225-metre vessel was delayed for a short time until police cleared the way.

One 47-year-old kayaker, Donna Bartlett, claimed a police officer on a jetski made contact with her bright orange kayak, knocking it against another and dislocating her finger. She said jetskis on either side of a group were sending protesters

in opposite directions, causing chaos.

“The jetskis come, trying to get us unbalanced,” she said. “I’m scared today but I know the stakes.”

Zana Kobayashi, 25, from Newcastle, said she’d joined the protest because the federal government “doesn’t seem to be doing anything to address concerns [about climate change].”

Kobayashi, who was in a double kayak, said police on the water confiscated their paddles and towed them out of the way of the ship. When protesters began returning to shore, another officer towed them in. She said there were “a few aggressive characters” among the police officers.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who earlier this week declared that “coal

A set of seven wooden combs have been presented to the Museum of Samoa. Galumalemana Steven Percival presented the combs to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture, Falana’ipupu Matafeo Tanielu and Sala Delphina Lee of the Culture Division.

Gogosina Fa’aiuga Aiono Tu’u’au Sao had every reason to enjoy last Saturday.

Although her 90th birthday was on Wednesday before White Sunday, her family decided to hold the celebration until Saturday when all the attention will be on her.

The idea was also opportune as some of her children, grand children and great grandchildren had to travel from overseas to attend the party.

And so on Saturday, Gogosina, was surrounded by her family, friends and guests as she celebrated her 90 years of life.

She certainly showed that age is only a number. At one time, she took to the dance floor and was followed by her children and grand children.

Married to the late Rev. Elder Tu’u’au Sao, Gogosina is a mother of 10 children. Two have passed away. She is a grandmother to 38 and great grandmother of 27 great grandchildren. Sadly her husband passed away in 1981.

Her birthday party was held at the Papauta Old Girls Association Hall inside the Papauta Girls College Compound.

Gogosina is a member of the Papauta old Girls Association. She gave a special thanks to all those who attended her party.

She also thanked her children for their care and love for her.

Gogosina is the daughter of Taua Malala Aiono of Fasitoo-uta and Laulii and mother TautautasileafaoupuoSamoamaisauaianalega of

Falealupo and Saleaula.

Gogosina and her late husband once served the Congregational Christian Church Parish at Vailoa Palauli. She currently lives at Vaivase.

Think a minute…

The first, and most important, ingredient for success is motivating yourself to act. You must believe every day that your choices and actions are moving you closer to your goal. You are the one who makes or breaks your own success.

The second ingredient you need for success is your skills and abilities that you must keep sharpening by using them again and again. This only comes through practice. Practice does make perfect. Experience is the best teacher IF you keep learning and improving each time you do it. That is how you become skilled and professional at what you do. “You live and learn.” But sadly, some of us just live, continuing to make the same mistakes and doing things the way we have always done them, whether it is right and successful or not.

The third ingredient for success is knowledge. For example, a salesman needs to know everything about the product or service he sells, and how to sell it. This kind of knowledge you can get from books, training programs, courses, and from experienced people who will teach you. It is as you continue to learn the new technologies and knowledge that you can stay successful.

Success only comes to those who keep trying; so put your knowledge and skills into action. Then your confidence, passion and perseverance each day will keep moving you closer to your goal.

A group of teenage boys wanted to get good jobs and do better in school; so a successful businessman started teaching them that if they simply learned to work hard and work smart, they could succeed much more quickly than they expected. He especially taught them how to have confidence. In just 30 days, all 16 boys had jobs! And in 90 days, some of them had moved up in school the equivalent of two years! But they chose to pay the price for success by working hard and working smart.

These same principles were taught to hundreds of criminals in prison who wanted to change and succeed. Of the 800 prisoners, 84 percent of them stayed out of prison and got good jobs!

Why not start on your road to success today? The first step is to ask Jesus to take full charge of your heart and way of living. Then, He can start helping you as you learn all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. He will also give you the motivation and passion to fully live His great plan and purpose for your life. Just think a minute…

... because the I.R.B. changed the eligibility rule after applications
for six players to play for Samoa had been submitted, he said.

Three Pacific Island rugby unions are to challenge the IRB in court over a rule change on player eligibility.

“I was a bit disappointed,” said Manu Samoa assistant coach, Namulauulu Alama Ieremia, when the IRB removed a rule which allowed a player from one country to play for another after representing the latter in one leg of the 7’s World Series.

The change is that players set to change allegiance must play in four legs in the series.

This makes a switch much harder if not impossible because of the length of time away from contracts to clubs and franchises.

Fiji, Samoa and Tonga are preparing a court challenge to the rule change, Namulauulu told Samoa Capital Radio this morning.

“It’s inappropriate,” he said.

Because the IRB changed the eligibility rule after applications for six players to play for Samoa had been submitted, he said.

Two of those players were scheduled to represent Manu Samoa 7’s at the Gold Coast tournament last weekend, said Namulauulu, in order to qualify for the national 15s.

Another two were to have turned out for the Wellington leg of the 7’s World Series, with the remaining two scheduled for the Los Angeles leg.

Two of the players were picked for Manu Samoa’s tour of Europe end of the year, Namulauulu said.

There is still hope an IRB meeting yesterday would approve the allegiance switch of the six players applied for.

PR - The hockey season for 2014 has finally come to an end last Saturday. Each year Samoa Hockey starts its season in February until November. In February hockey has a one day 5 a Side Tournament with the business and public sector and in March we start our official tournaments with the

(i) 7aSide one day tournament Lisi Vaai Memorial Cup for Women’s division and Skipper Dick Bishop Trophy for the Men’s division

(ii) Easter Cup now sponsored and called the Matniuel Screen Printing and Designs Easter Cup for both divisions

(iii) Steve Jakiwczyk one day 7aSide Trophy

(iv) Malietoa Tanumafili II Memorial Independence Trophy in June for both divisions

(v) Felix David Memorial one day 7aSide Trophy

(vi) Le Mamea Ropati Shield Tournament which is our major tournament each year

(vii) The BaYs’ Café Knock Out Trophy

(viii) The BaYs’ Café Cadets Trophy and

(ix) Samoa Hockey Champions of Champions Trophy

This year the winners and Cup holders are

1 Lisi Vaai Memorial Trophy was won by Multipharm Ladies

2 Skipper Dick Bishop Tournament Cup went to Multipharm Men’s

3 Matniuel Screen Printing & Designs Easter Trophy was won by Multipharm Ladies and Multipharm Men

4 Steve Jakiwczyk 5aSide Trophy was won by Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

5 Malietoa Tanumafili II Memorial Independence Trophy was won by Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

6 Felix David Memorial 5aSide Trophy was won by Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

7 Le Mamea Ropati Shield was won by Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

8 The BaYs’ Café Cup Knock Out Tournament was won by Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

9 Samoa Hockey Champions of Champions Trophy which is the overall highest point scoring team throughout the whole season went to Multipharm Ladies and Fresh Ink Men’s

10 The BaYs’ Café Cadets Trophy remains with the Vaimoso Cadets team.

We acknowledge with sincere thanks the ongoing support from the Government of Samoa, our Gold sponsor SIFA, our Silver sponsors, Matniuel Screen Printing and Designs, The BaYs’ Café, Samoa Commercial Bank and our Bronze sponsors Le Well, Multipharm, Betham Brothers Enterprises, Drake Law Firm, Sefo Pau Funeral Services, Apia Traders, Bluebird, SMI, Niu Pharmacy, Just Sport of Australia

We also acknowledge the ongoing support from the Australian Sports Outreach Programme (ASOP), FIH, Oceania Hockey Federation (OHF), ONOC, SASNOC, ACT Hockey Association, Mudgee Hockey Club, Hockey Australia and New Zealand Hockey.

The highlight of this year’s season was the visit from the Mudgee Hockey Club from Australia where our national teams had two official games in preparation for the Oceania Pacific Cup in Fiji in December and the Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea in 2015.

“I’m disappointed to miss the Australian team but there’s no ill-feeling, I’m looking forward to testing myself against them for Samoa,”

Brisbane’s Toa Samoa international Josh McGuire faces a career-shaping dilemma after revealing he will play in the Four Nations with a cataract in his left eye.

Snubbed by Australian selectors, McGuire will temporarily put his allegiance to Queensland on hold to lead the Samoan pack in Saturday’s clash with England at Suncorp Stadium.

But McGuire’s disappointment at his Kangaroos omission is a secondary concern to a more serious issue — how long he can sustain his career ostensibly blind in one eye.

The Broncos enforcer has battled vision problems for the past three years, suffering a detached retina in 2011 after being poked in the eye during an NRL game by a Brisbane teammate.

A five-hour operation helped save his eyesight, but in recent months his vision has deteriorated, to the point where McGuire has developed a cataract that needs surgery.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye and is the most common cause of blindness.

Remarkably, the 24-year-old has produced career-best form for the Broncos, despite his left eye detecting only faint shapes and shadows when he runs into opposition players.

“I’ve now got a cataract which should be operated on,” McGuire said.

“But it’s a tough one ... if I have an operation, it weakens the eye, so I’ll leave the cataract in there for as long as I can.

“There’s a lot of floating blood in my eye so when I look through it, there’s a big black spot over my eye.

“I’ll get a few operations when I retire to fix it up a bit more. I could get it now but if I copped another big hit, I’d need more surgery.

“I’ve already had two operations on my left eye, so I’m trying to delay it as long as I can.”

While such a visual impairment could destroy some sporting careers, McGuire is adamant it will not impede his Origin and Test aspirations.

“I can’t remember what it was like to have vision in both eyes,” he said.

“I wear a special contact lens that helps me focus, but nothing’s clear. If I close my right eye, I could sleep with my left eye open if I wanted to.

“You can whinge about it or get on with it and enjoy what you do. I’ve become a dad this year and I’m playing good footy for the Broncos, so I feel blessed.”

McGuire is permitted to make one eligibility change during a World Cup cycle, meaning he can still play Origin for Queensland next season if chosen.

“I’m disappointed to miss the Australian team but there’s no ill-feeling, I’m looking forward to testing myself against them for Samoa,” he said.

“My mum’s grandfather is Samoan. He died of a heart attack the year before I was born so this is my way of tapping into his cultural background.

“I still want to play Origin and for Australia, but this is another opportunity to play international football.”

... because the I.R.B. changed the eligibility rule after applications
for six players to play for Samoa had been submitted, he said.

Three Pacific Island rugby unions are to challenge the IRB in court over a rule change on player eligibility.

“I was a bit disappointed,” said Manu Samoa assistant coach, Namulauulu Alama Ieremia, when the IRB removed a rule which allowed a player from one country to play for another after representing the latter in one leg of the 7’s World Series.

The change is that players set to change allegiance must play in four legs in the series.

This makes a switch much harder if not impossible because of the length of time away from contracts to clubs and franchises.

Fiji, Samoa and Tonga are preparing a court challenge to the rule change, Namulauulu told Samoa Capital Radio this morning.

“It’s inappropriate,” he said.

Because the IRB changed the eligibility rule after applications for six players to play for Samoa had been submitted, he said.

Two of those players were scheduled to represent Manu Samoa 7’s at the Gold Coast tournament last weekend, said Namulauulu, in order to qualify for the national 15s.

Another two were to have turned out for the Wellington leg of the 7’s World Series, with the remaining two scheduled for the Los Angeles leg.

Two of the players were picked for Manu Samoa’s tour of Europe end of the year, Namulauulu said.

There is still hope an IRB meeting yesterday would approve the allegiance switch of the six players applied for.

Women can do all things.
And a woman shepherd from Sapapali’i Savai’i, Pipili Papali’i, is living proof of that. She was among farmers in Savai’i last weekend during the celebration of World Food Day. For Mrs. Papali’i, her interest in raising sheep has evolved from a hobby to a full time job.“It’s the best move I’ve made in years,” she says. “I should have done this a long time ago.

“It is just a joy to be with my sheep everyday ...they are like children to me and I love them so much.”

Mrs Papali’i says she bought one ram and an ewe in 2008.

“I just wanted to give it a try. From that time until now, I have fourteen of them altogether. I’m really pleased about the progress and it is great to have this new kind of farming in Savai’i.

“People call me everyday wanting to buy sheep for feasts or fa’alavelave but I refuse. I still want to keep them alive and I also tell them ‘no’ as I want to increase my herd.”

Mrs Papali’i also knows there is “a huge demand for local sheep.”

But sheep farming is not easy, she points out. It can be quite expensive and a lot of hard work. “The interaction between myself and the herd is very important in maintaining a healthy stock,” she says.

“They feed off my hands most of the time. Unlike cows and pigs, sheep are very delicate, vulnerable and sensitive and they are easy to look after.”

Basically, Mrs Papali’i says there are two things farmers should look at in raising sheep. “You need an enormous amount of land and you also need starting capital to build fences and a sheep pen. The thing is they cannot sleep out in the open at night.”

“The buildings needed for raising sheep are dependent on the size of the flock, the climate, and when lambing happens during the year. Good handling facilities will reduce time spent on procedures and reduce the chance of injury to animals and handlers.

“The important thing to keep in mind with sheep diets and feed is balance.”

She believes that raising sheep can be a very rewarding experience and a great way to convert grass into food and other income.

“No matter how old I am, but I was born to be a sheep farmer.”

The Second shipment of 130 sheep arrived from Fiji last week. The shipment is part of the Ministry of Agriculture’s ‘Samoa Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Project’. S.A.C.E.P. is a combined support scheme by the World Bank and Samoan government.

It’s objective is to encourage livestock producers to; upgrade livestock, improve husbandry practices, stock management and improve the quality of meat sold in the local market.