Pacific Beat

Traditional leaders from New Caledonia's South have reiterated their concerns about the environmental, social and cultural impact of mining operations on their land.

Papua New Guinea's National AIDS council is raising concerns at employers using compulsory HIV screening tests on their employees.

A Cook Islands artist, Ian George, is using the pre-Christian deity Tangaroa to emphasise the ancient roots of Polynesian artwork.

First to Fiji where the environmentalist cause today managed to snare the spotlight at the opening session of the African, Carribean and Pacific meeting in Nadi.

In the Cook Islands, a team of health specialists has reported a high incidence of non communicable disease among residents of outlying islands, following an extensive tour of the country's north.

In Papua New Guinea, the legal-eagles appear set to take flight in the country's drawn-out search for a new Government.

The association Moururoa E Tatou, "Moruroa and us", representing former nuclear test sites workers in French Polynesia, will hold its first general assembly on July 20 in Tahiti.

In Papua New Guinea, preparations are underway in Bougainville to re-open the lsland's major wharf at Kieta following an agreement between local landowners and the PNG Harbours Board.

Palau's President Tommy Remengesau has called for new legislation to protect the country's marine environment.

Air Pacific has denied media reports that its pilots are no longer allowed to go to the United States for flight simulator training, due to fears about terrorism.

Pohnpei state in the Federated States of Micronesia is hosting officials and traditional leaders from the region for the Micronesia Traditional Leaders meeting which is underway in the State's capital, Kolonia.

An expert on Pacific economies says the Solomon Islands have to address their internal conflicts before the country's economic crisis can be resolved.

Trade issues are set to dominate this year's African Caribbean Pacific Summit, currently underway in the Fiji city of Nadi.

Renowned Pacific artist Fatu Feu'u has been working with young art school students on Rarotonga, and says he's amazed at the large number of potential artists, and their level of talent.

Struggling Marshall Islands schools will get a boost this month with the arrival of American teachers from the Harvard University-based WorldTeach Program.

For the first time, Australia is bidding for the top job running the secretariat of the Pacific Islands Forum.

Papua New Guinea's embattled Electoral Commissioner says he'll probably have to seek directions from the PNG judiciary on whether he has the power to call off the elections in seats in two of the country's election strife torn Highlands Provinces.

Now to Solomon Islands where since last night the people of Honiara have had to put up with power and water cuts because of the goverments inability to pay it's bills.

In Papua New Guinea, former Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare appears to be readying for a political comeback, after a strong performance by his party in the polls.