August 2007

PNG: Anti-corruption watchdog warns new caninet ministersAudioTranscript

Updated 31/08/2007 12:58:48

An anti-corruption group, Transparency International PNG, has warned Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare's new cabinet ministers to practice good governance. Sir Michael's new Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Puka Temu, along with the full new 27 member cabinet has just been sworn into office.

AUST: Survey reflects positive attitudes towards PacificAudio

Updated 31/08/2007 14:50:05

Two issues close to the hearts of Pacific people top the list of concerns for the Australian population according to a new survey. The annual public opinion poll by the Lowy Institutue found that jobs and climate change should be the two most important goals for Australia's foreign policy. Other findings confirm New Zealanders as Australians favourite neighbours, that the US President is not popular and that temporary work permits are OK.

PNG: Patients evacuated after Tarvurvur eruptionAudio

Updated 31/08/2007 14:50:05

In Papua New Guinea, around 50 patients have been evactuated from Nonga Hospital in Rabaul. Mt Tarvurvur as been erupting since the weekend forcing some parts of the hospital including the operating threatres to close. Encroaching dirt, volcanic ash and gas emissions have forced the authorites to reduce the number of sevices the hospital can offer.

FRENCH POL: President to face no confidence voteAudio

Updated 31/08/2007 14:50:05

In French Polynesia, President Gaston Tong Sang will have to fight for his political future when he faces a vote of no confidence tomorrow. In recent years, governments in French Polynesia have consistently been toppled by motions of no confidence. What's unusual about this vote is that the Tahoeraa Huiraatira, Mr Tong Sang's own party, has tabled the motion against him.

FIJI: Rabuka says more coups likelyAudio

Updated 30/08/2007 13:04:10

Former Fiji prime minister and coup leader Sitiveni Rabuka says the December 5th coup may not be Fiji's last. Leader of the country's first coup in 1987, Mr Rabuka admits now it was a mistake which he says has been proved by the number of coups Fijians have had to endure. Last years coup was the country's fourth in 20 years. He says immediate steps need to be taken to prevent the continuing polarisation of the races and political factions to prevent them from erupting into future acts of civil disobedience. Mr Rabuka has recently had his life membership in Fiji's Great Council of Chiefs terminated by the interim government.

SAMOA: Samoa backs RAMSI missionAudio

Updated 30/08/2007 16:58:55

Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele, says stability in the pacific region depends on the continuing presence of the regional assistance mission to Solomon Islands. He was responding to recent criticism by the Solomon Islands prime minister, Manasseh Sogovare, of Australia's role in RAMSI.

SOLOMON IS: Ramsi boss dismisses Sogavare claimsAudioTranscript

Updated 30/08/2007 16:58:55

The head of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands has dismissed claims by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare about the presence of illegal guns in the country. Mr Sogavare told parliament that Ramsi Special Coordinator, Tim George had told him a number of times that there were no illegal guns in the community.

PACIFIC: Call for Australia to ban illegal timber importsAudio

Updated 30/08/2007 16:58:55

The Australian Conservation Foundation has renewed its call for Australia to ban imports of illegally logged timber from the Asia Pacific region. The call comes in the wake of Papua New Guinea's new cabinet line-up. Prime MInister Sir Michael Somare has appointed Belden Namah Forestry Minister. Mr Namah is part owner of a land parcel which was granted a logging licence by the government earlier this year raising concerns of a conflict of interest.

PNG: Dumped election ballots raise questionsAudio

Updated 30/08/2007 16:58:55

The legitimacy of Papua New Guinea's elections is again being questioned. The alleged discovery of more than 3,000 filled out ballots found in a dump in Madang has sparked fresh calls of 'foul play'. the new cabinet's early days in office are being marred by the circumstances surrounding the electoral process.

PNG:Govt to establish new microfinance bankAudio

Updated 29/08/2007 12:06:39

The Papua New Guinea government has announced plans to establish a new microfinance bank. The move comes as more than 100 delegates from 15 Pacific countries gather in Port Moresby for a conference to mark Pacific Microfinance Week 2007. The new Bank will have its headquaters in Lae and be based on a sucessful pilot project by the Asian Development Bank and the PNG Microfinance Competency Centre.

PACIFIC:Trade Officials deeply concerned about European offerAudio

Updated 29/08/2007 16:05:52

Pacific Trade officials are deeply concerned about a draft text submitted to them by Europe for the much-anticipated Economic Partnership Agreement. The Economic Partnership agreement is meant to be the main instrument putting the Cotonou Aid and Trade agreement into effect in the region. Trade officials and legal experts from 14 Pacific Island nations have just spent 3 days examing Europe's draft agreement in detail.

SAMOA: Food and media problems at South Pacific GamesAudioTranscript

Updated 29/08/2007 16:05:52

Reports of a diarrhoea scare among athletes at the South Pacific Games in Samoa have put a bit of a dampener on the first days of competition. The athletes are having their meals at special dining centres with the food being prepared by local catering companies and coordinated by Games organiseers. News of the scare has been reported in Samoa and across the region but that's not the only bad press the Games had to deal with. Some of the international media aren't impressed with their lot as well.

PNG: Doubts about stories of live burial of HIV affected peopleAudio

Updated 29/08/2007 16:05:52

The National Aids Council of Papua New Guinea says it doubts reports that people with HIV/AIDS are being buried alive in the country's southern highlands. Earlier this week a volunteer AIDS worker in PNG claimed she witnessed people being buried alive by family members. The claims have prompted calls from the World Health Organisation for the PNG Government to prioritise AIDS awareness.

PNG: PM's new cabinet sworn inAudioTranscript

Updated 29/08/2007 16:05:52

Papua New Guinea's newly-re-elected prime minister, Sir Michael Somare, has just announced the shape of his next government. In a surprise move, he's replaced his current deputy prime minister, Don Polye, with Dr Puka Temu. Dr Temu is a member of the Southern Bloc of MPs representing the area of the country once known as Papua. Sir Michael has also substatially increased the size of cabinet.

FIJI: Commodore refuses reconciliation offerAudio

Updated 28/08/2007 11:05:28

Fiji's Armed Forces chief and Interim Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama has flaty refused an offer for amnesty for participants of the 2006 coup. In an open letter in a local newspaper, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata asked Commodore Bainimarama to hold a national reconciliation to take Fiji forward. The Commodore, however, believes that as one of the perpetrators of the 2000 coup the request by the former Senator and Naitaisiri high chief Ratu Inoke Takiveikata is ingenuous.

SAMOA: Destruction of newspaper "untimely"Audio

Updated 28/08/2007 16:18:41

The editor of Newsline Samoa, Cherelle Jackson, says the cause of the fire which gutted the newspaper's headquarters in Apia is still being investigated. Ms Jackson would not be drawn on whether she thinks the paper was deliberately targeted. However, she does think the timing of the fire just days prior to the start of the South Pacific Games, the country's biggest media event for the year, is notable.

PNG: HIV infected people buried alive in HighlandsAudioTranscript

Updated 28/08/2007 16:18:41

Distressing stories have emerged from Papua New Guinea where it's been reported that people with HIV/AIDS are being buried alive by relatives in the country's Southern Highlands. The stories have raised serious questions about whether money for AIDS campagins in PNG is getting to where it's needed most.

FIJI: Deposed PM claims military blocking his returnAudioTranscript

Updated 28/08/2007 16:18:41

Fiji's deposed prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, says his attempt to return to Suva this Friday has been thwarted by Fiji's military government. The former prime minister fled to the Lau Islands after being ousted in a coup last December. Mr Qarase and his wife planned to return to the capital this Friday. But Mr Qarase is claiming his trip is being blocked.

GUAM: Unlicensed doctors won't be given trainingAudio

Updated 28/08/2007 16:18:41

Guam Memorial Hospital has cancelled its plan to train unlicensed doctors from the Philippines who'd been working at the facility. The doctors had been introduced to correct a shortage in specialist doctors.

NAURU: NGO report slams Australia's "Pacific Solution"Audio

Updated 27/08/2007 11:30:10

A report on Australia's policy of keeping asylum seekers on remote Pacific islands claims it's inefficient, unaccountable, and diverts aid from poverty reduction. The report, "A Price Too High" from the NGOs Oxfam and "A Just Australia", says the Pacific Solution has cost Australian taxpayers more than half a million dollars per person to process fewer than 1,700 asylum seekers. It puts the total cost at just over a billion Australian dollars. Oxfam spokesman, Nic Mclellan, says the policy costs too much, fuels mental illnesses of asylum seekers, and distorts the relationship between Australian and Pacific countries.

PNG: Sir Michael Somare seems certain to form new governmentAudio

Updated 27/08/2007 11:30:11

Newly re-elected Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare has been working on the make-up of his new Cabinet.

FIJI: Foreign company gives kiss of life to textile industryAudio

Updated 27/08/2007 11:30:11

At a time when many investors have shied away from Fiji, a German-owned textile manufacturer has pledged its willingness to lend a hand. Freundenberg Limited - which employs 37,000 employees around the world -- sent its senior executives in Melbourne and Hong Kong to Suva this week, meeting buyers and textile factory operators. Company managing director Malcolm Barrow says they hope their visit will instill greater entreprenuerial spirit in Fiji's garment industry.

TONGA: Overseas Tongans expected to support democracyAudio

Updated 27/08/2007 11:30:11

A change to Tonga's laws allowing dual citizenship could have a big impact on the Kingdom's politics, according to the country's pro-democracy movement. New legislation allows Tongans who take our citizenship in overseas countries to retain their Tongan passports and right to vote. With more Tongans living overseas than in Tonga itself; mainly in New Zealand, Australia and the United States; this could mean a large number of new voters participating in elections in future. Pro-democracy movement leader Akilisi Pohiva says he expect Tongans living in western democracies to support his movement, but believes the change may have been prompted by anxiety over land ownership.

SOLOMON IS: NGO's reject gov't controlAudioTranscript

Updated 27/08/2007 11:30:10

Civil Society groups in Solomon Islands are against moves by the government to control them. They are reacting to Prime Minister Sogavare's plans to introduce legislation requiring NGOs and civil society groups to be accountable. Announcing his intention in parliament, Mr Sogavare said while the NGOs demand transparency in government, they themselves must be accountable. Spokesman for the civil society groups, Joses Tuhanuku says the NGOs are governed by their constitutions and are accountable for all their activities. Mr Tuhanuku says controlling the activities of NGOs is just part of Prime Minister Sogavare's dictatorial move.

FIJI: Exodus of nurses likely to disrupt health careAudio

Updated 27/08/2007 16:15:54

Fiji's health care services are facing a potentential crisis now that 50 percent of its senior nurses are considering leaving to work overseas. General-Secretary for the Fiji Nursing Association Kuini Lutua claims half of the nurses who participated in the recent 16 day strike are considering leaving the country because the interim government failed to meet any of their demands. Mrs Lutua says a number of countries have expressed interest in recruiting Fiji's more senior nurses.

SOLOMON IS: Parliament Amends Ramsi ActAudioTranscript

Updated 27/08/2007 16:15:54

The Solomon Islands parliament yesterday passed a government motion reviewing the legislation that set up Ramsi, the Regional Assistance Mission. The motion tabled by Prime Minister Sogavare, gave the members of parliament the opportunity to debate the Ramsi facililation at as required by the act itself. Observers believe the motion is part of government moves to amend the Ramsi facilitation act in November.

NAURU: Reformist government returned to powerAudio

Updated 27/08/2007 16:15:54

The people of Nauru have given their reformist government another solid majority in the island's national elections. The President Ludwig Scotty and all his senior Ministers have been returned to power. The ABC's Sean Dorney reports that when the final results were posted last night, the Scotty Government scored its second landslide in succession.

PACIFIC: Warning on tuna stocks relaxedAudioTranscript

Updated 27/08/2007 16:15:54

A scientific committee has relaxed its warnings concerning dwindling tuna stocks in the Pacific. Last year the committee told the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission that inorder to protect tuna in the Pacific the catch of some tuna species would need to be lowered - in one case by up to 25 per cent. At this year's annual meeting the scientific committee has presented new findings that suggest tuna catches no longer need to be reduced. It's good news for the fishing industry, but as Steve Holland reports, pressure on stocks remains high as the fishing industry is told to exercise caution.

TONGA: Disagreements holding up political reformAudioTranscript

Updated 24/08/2007 12:14:41

Disagreement over when and how to hold elections are holding up progress within Tonga's tripartite committee on political reform. The committee includes MPs representing the government, nobles and the people, and has been given an extension until September the 6th to come up with an agreement on changes to the make up of the Kingdom's parliament.

PNG: Sustainable foresty important revenue earnerAudio

Updated 24/08/2007 15:29:35

Papua New Guinea's care-taker Forest Minister, Patrick Pruaitch has given an undertaking to manage its forests in a sustainable way within 5 years. Mr Pruaitch says forestry in P-N-G is a huge revenue earner and they must work harder on developing the country's plantation forests.

FIJI: Garment exporters could still qualify for duty free entryAudio

Updated 24/08/2007 15:29:35

There are growing fears in Fiji that garment exporters in the island may default in meeting conditions which allow for duty-free entry of their exports into Australia. Warnings about this possibility were raised at a dinner forum in Suva this week, organised by Australian executives of one of the world's largest textile supplier, Freudenberg.

SAMOA: No condoms for female athletesAudio

Updated 24/08/2007 15:29:35

One of Samoa's leading HIV AIDS campaigners says he's perplexed and disappointed about a decision by South Pacific Games Organisers to remove female condoms from gift packs intended for athletes. Samoa has imported 50,000 condoms for the Games. And as part of its safe sex campaign, the Samoa AIDS Foundation made up safe sex kits to be included in the official Games gift packs for athletes and officials.

NAURU: Anxious wait for outcome of election pollsAudio

Updated 24/08/2007 15:29:35

Thousands of people on Nauru will head to the polls tomorrow for the first election since a reforming government took power three years ago. While polling day is expected to be peaceful, there's simmering concern about the political climate in Nauru.

PACIFIC: Community development programs used to protect coral reefsAudioTranscript

Updated 24/08/2007 15:29:35

Delegates from around the Pacific have converged on the American Samoan capital Pago Pago this week for the 18th US Coral Reef Task Force meeting. The meeting is discussing ways the US Government can help protect coral reef systems in its affiliated and freely associated pacific islands.

FIJI: Hundreds of Fiji sugar cane farmers forced off landAudioTranscript

Updated 23/08/2007 11:12:13

In Fiji more than 500 sugarcane farmers are expected to be pushed off the land and into poverty by the end of this year. The problem is their land leases expire and many won't be renewed.

Lynette Hyslop

PALAU: Taiwanese fising boat arrested for shark finningAudio

Updated 23/08/2007 15:50:32

A Taiwanese fishing boat 's captain and owner are facing 30 charges in the Palau Supreme Court relating to illegal fishing. It's alleged the Sheng Yi Hsing was engaged in the controversial practice of shark finning, and that it had its vessel monitoring beacon switched off.

FRENCH POL: Paris not happy with politics in PapeeteAudio

Updated 23/08/2007 15:50:32

The French government has organised a meeting in Paris to discuss changes to French Polynesia's political system to end the territory's instability which has caused three changes of government in three years. Since July President Gaston Tong Sang has been fighting for his political future.

PNG: Opposition says no TV for membersAudioTranscript

Updated 23/08/2007 15:50:33

Papua New Guinea's Opposition is unhappy with the Parliamentary Speaker, Jeffery Nape's plans to buy TV sets for all 109 members. Deputy Leader, Bart Philemon says it is a waste of tax payer's money.

SOLOMON IS: Sogavare wants more ministersAudioTranscript

Updated 23/08/2007 15:50:33

Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare is accused of further strengthening his control over the government. The parliament this week passed a government bill to increase the number of ministries by three.

KIRIBATI: President Anote Tong Retains SeatAudio

Updated 23/08/2007 15:50:32

Kiribati President, Anote Tong has retained his seat following yesterday's national elections. Around half of the 23 parliamentary seats have returned inconclusive results, and will have to go to a second round of voting.

PNG: Police discover ammunitionAudio

Updated 22/08/2007 12:34:51

In Papua New Guinea, police are looking for an Indonesian citizen allegedly involved in producing ammunition in a house he was renting. Police have not ruled out the possibility the chemicals and equipment are being used to make bombs and other illegal activities.

PACIFIC: Strong Virgin profit leads to expansion plansAudio

Updated 22/08/2007

The low cost airline, Virgin Blue, has more plans to expand in the Pacific, after announcing Polynesian Blue, its joint venture with the Samoan government, more than tripled its profit in the last financial year. Polynesian Blue posted a pre-tax profit of four point six million Australian dollars in the year to June 2007.

SOLOMON IS: Opposition coughs-up information on ethnic tensionAudioTranscript

Updated 22/08/2007 16:22:53

A senior Solomon Islands politician says national leaders have nothing to fear about their role in the ethnic conflict if they have nothing to hide. Opposition MP Peter Boyers made the comment in response to allegations that the opposition is using former militants to fabricate information about the government.

PNG: Election fall-out causes more violence in highlandsAudio

Updated 22/08/2007 16:22:53

Violence has erupted in Papua New Guinea's troubled Southern highlands province with four people hospitalized from gun shot wounds. A car and several buildings were damaged following a confrontation between Electoral Commission officials and counting officials over unpaid election allowances.

FIJI: EU to withold sugar subsidyAudio

Updated 22/08/2007 16:22:53

Fiji's interim government denies claims that the EU will not be paying sugar subsidies in 2007. Radio Australia has been told by reliable sources the EU will not be providing subsidies worth around 30 million dollars US for this year's crop, and subsidy payments for 2008 and 2009 are at risk.

FIJI: Treason probe against Qarase shelvedAudioTranscript

Updated 22/08/2007 16:22:54

A Fiji Police investigation of deposed prime minister Laisenia Qarase for treason has been put on hold. It's alleged Mr Qarase appealed to Australian prime minister John Howard to intervene militarily just before the coup, led by the current interim prime minister, Frank Bainimarama. The Fiji Police asked the international police organisation, Interpol, to investigate the matter, but with no result so far.

KIRIBATI: Voters busy electing new governmentAudio

Updated 22/08/2007 16:22:53

The people of Kiribati today cast their votes in the country's general election. One hundred and forty-six candidates are contesting the election for the 44-seat parliament.

PACIFIC: Taiwan courts island nations votes at UNAudio

Updated 21/08/2007 11:57:05

Six Pacific Island countries have joined nine other countries who also recognise Taiwan, and put their names to a letter addressed to United Nations Secretary General Ban ki-Moon, calling on him to allow the Chinese island state's application to become a full member. Taiwan provides aid and other financial support, in return Pacific nations back Taiwan's stance on international issues.

SOLOMON IS: USP students offfered some relief.Audio

Updated 21/08/2007 11:57:05

Hundreds of desperate Solomon Islands students at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji have finally been paid part of their outstanding book and living allowances. More than 400 Solomon Island government-sponsored students were left without money, food and faced eviction from their rented flats.

CNMI: US Senate to revise Federalisation BillAudioTranscript

Updated 21/08/2007 15:58:21

The Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas played host to a delegation from the US Administration and Department of Insular Affairs last week for a public debate on the US-proposed Federalisation Bill, taking control of immigration and labour laws away from the CNMI. Outside the well-attended hearings, a group of migrant workers protested against the Governor, Benigno Fitial's opposition to the Bill.

NEW ZEALAND: Coronation seventh Maori kingAudioTranscript

Updated 21/08/2007 15:58:21

Celebrations are continuing in New Zealand following today's coronation of the seventh maori monarch - King Tuheitia Paki. Royalty and political leaders from across the Pacific travelled to the small central North Island town of Ngaruawahia for the culmination of the week-long event .

FIJI: No sugar subsidies in 2007AudioTranscript

Updated 21/08/2007 15:58:21

The European Union will not subsidy payments for Fiji's sugar industry this year. In May this year the EU told Fiji's interim government subsidies, valued at around 30 million dollars US each year would continue only if it showed it was serious about returning to democracy.

PNG: Stock Exchange untouched by international troublesAudio

Updated 21/08/2007

The Port Moresby Stock Exchange has escaped the roller-coaster ride that has thrown the world's big exchanges into chaos over the past week. The big falls in stock prices internationally, were precipitated by concerns about bad loans in United States sub-prime mortgage market. The Australian Stock Exchange saw an overall fall of 15 percent followed, yesterday, by the biggest one day rise in almost ten years.

PNG: Birth registration beginsAudio

Updated 20/08/2007 11:39:28

For the first time, Papua New Guinea is to start registering the birth of children. The Department of Community Development is encouraging parents to take part in the birth registration exercise.

TONGA: Dual citizenship welcomed by NZ Tongan leaderAudio

Updated 20/08/2007 15:32:24

Tongans who emigrate can now retain their Tongan citizenship when they become citizens of other countries. A bill allowing dual citizenship for overseas Tongans has been given the Royal Assent by King George Tupou V. There are currently more Tongans living overseas than in Tonga - mainly in New Zealand, Australia and the United States.

MARSHALL IS: Dometic air services grounded indefinitelyAudioTranscript

Updated 20/08/2007 15:32:24

Marshall Islanders are again feeling the isolation of island life, after the shut down of it's only domestic airline. Air Marshall Islands operates two aircraft but one plane was taken out of service two weeks ago while the second plane was grounded at the weekend after a mid air emergency.

PACIFIC: United Nations denies links with alleged investorAudioTranscript

Updated 20/08/2007 15:32:24

The United Nations most senior representative in the South Pacific has denied the UN has any connection with an organisation calling itself the Office of International Treasury Control and warned people to ask lots of questions before becoming involved with it. The OITC is promising to invest a massive six billion Australian dollars in a development bank and other initiatives in Fiji, such as tourism and mahogany.

PNG: Police crack down on drugs for guns racketAudioTranscript

Updated 20/08/2007 15:32:24

Papua New Guinea police have arrested 9 people including four women allegedly involved in a ''drugs for guns'' racket in PNG's Western province. Its believed the illicit trade is sourced from Australia and Indonesia.

NEW ZEALAND: PM says Australia also used airline as troop carrierAudio

Updated 20/08/2007 15:32:24

The row over Australia chartering Air New Zealand planes to fly troops to Iraq has spread across the Tasman. Last week New Zealand's Parliament was in uproar after it was revealed the country's national carrier had made two flights to the Gulf in June. The Prime Minister Helen Clark said the airline's charter arrangements in this case had not been in the national interest since New Zealand was strongly opposed to the US-led invasion of Iraq.

CNMI: Disagreement over US Federalisation takeoverAudio

Updated 17/08/2007 09:25:25

There's disagreement in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariannas over Washington's plans to assume control of immigration and labour of the island group. CNMI Governor Benigno Fitial says the legislation will have a detrimental impact on the economy, however, the CNMI's Washington Representative Pete Tenorio is backing the proposal.

FIJI: Health minister advises Methodist church on debt paymentsAudio

Updated 17/08/2007 15:43:10

Fiji's interim health minister has suggested that the methodist church use some of its fund raising money to pay its dues for the Ba Mission Hospital. The Methodist church is expecting to raise two million Fiji dollars in its annual fundraiser.

NAURU: Election campaign proceeds without fussAudio

Updated 17/08/2007 15:43:10

In Nauru, around four thousand voters will go to the polls in eight days on the 25th of August to elect a new government. So far, 83 candidates have registered their intention to contest the 18 parliamentary seats.

SOLOMON IS: Tsunami scare in Honiara following quakeAudio

Updated 17/08/2007 15:43:10

Residents living along the coast of the Solomon Islands capital Honiara ran to higher ground last night in fear of a tsunami following an earthquake. The six-point-seven magnitude tremor was centered just off the coast of south west Guadalcanal.

GUAM: Locals not worried by Russian nuke bomber incidentAudio

Updated 17/08/2007 15:43:10

The government of Guam says people on the island were not worried by an incident last week in which Russia claims a pair of its bombers overflew the US Pacific territory.The head of long-range aviation in Russia's Air Force, General Pavel Androsov said two Russian Tupolev-95 nuclear bombers buzzed Guam and exchanged smiles with two carrier-based US interceptors.

SOLOMONS: Long overdue reforms to prison systemAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

Reforms to the Solomon Islands Correctional Services Act are due to go before the country's parliament at this sitting. The reforms reflect a perception throughout the Pacific region that changes to prison systems are long overdue.

AUS: Claims uranium exports to India may breach treatyAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

A long-time American nuclear non-proliferation expert says Australia's decision to export uranium to India may be in breach of the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty. The agreement signed in 1985 and known as the Treaty of Rarotonga, bans the use, testing and possession of nuclear weapons within the borders of the zone.

TONGA: Second military contingent headed to IraqAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

A second contingent of Tongan soldiers is being deployed to Iraq to help guard the headquarters of the US led Coalition forces in the country. The 55 members of the 450-strong Tonga Defence Services all volunteered for the mission.

SOLOMON IS: SkyAirWorld agreement standsAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

The Australian company that has grounded a plane leased to Solomon Airlines says its wants to keep doing business with the company despite a falling out. SkyAirWorld repossessed its E-170 jet on Friday after Solomon Airlines failed to meet its lease payments.

FIJI: Changes to Trade Disputes Act disputedAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

Fiji's Teachers Association says it will now take its grievances to court because of the the interim governments refusal to allow recent trade disputes to go to compulsory arbritration. The President of the Fijian Teachers Association Tevita Koroi says they are also concerned about changes the interim government wants to make to the Trade Disputes Act.

FIJI: Election date joke sours for interim PMAudio

Updated 16/08/2007 16:10:12

A joke at the expense of Fiji's media relating to the time of the next general election has gone decidedly sour for interim prime minister Frank Bainimarama. The interim prime minister was frustrated at constantly being asked by the media when the next general elections will be held and apparently he just plucked the date, 13th of March 2009 out of the air.

AUST: Plea to PM to speak on human rights of PapuaAudio

Updated 15/08/2007 12:19:21

Australia's Prime Minister John Howard is being asked to speak up for the human rights of Papua when he meets Indonesia's President in Sydney next month. The Chairman of the Papuan People's Assembly wants the issue raised when Australia hosts 20 national leaders during the APEC summit in September.

NIUE: Overseas Niueans unlikely to heed return callAudio

Updated 15/08/2007 12:20:45

Appeals by the Niue government for overseas based Niueans to return home are likely to be ignored according to a community leader in Auckland. The island's premier, Young Vivian, has asked Niuean church ministers in New Zealand to appeal to their parishioners to consider returning, to boost Niue's shrinking population.

TONGA: Democracy leader says no reason for emergency regulationsAudio

Updated 15/08/2007 16:08:00

Tonga's democracy movement claims the government intends to keep emergency regulations in place until after the Pacific Islands Forum summit is held later this year.The government this week re-imposed the regulations for another 30 days - the ninth time they've done this since the riot in November which severely damaged the central area of the capital, Nukualofa.

PNG: Police investigate threats to Asian businessesAudio

Updated 15/08/2007 16:08:00

Papua New Guinea police are investigating threats made against Asian businesses in the country's Western Highlands province. Police say two men claiming to be government officials have warned Asian businesses that they will be evicted from the province.

VANUATU: Lucrative Millenium Fund safeAudio

Updated 15/08/2007 16:08:00

The Vanuatu government says its continuing participation in the Millenium Challenge Fund is safe.The Bush administration initiative is worth 65-million US dollars to Vanuatu for infrastructure projects such as roads and airstrips and looked like being derailed when accusations of misappropriation of funds against Millenium Challenge Director Lennox Vuti surfaced again recenlty.

SOLOMON IS: Solomon Airlines in dire financial stateAudioTranscript

Updated 15/08/2007 16:08:00

The Chairman of Solomon Airlines, Rick Hou says the airline's problems are so dire that the new board is looking at all possible options to bail it out. Mr Hou, who is also Governor of the Solomon Islands Central Bank, says the airline might have already ground to a halt and temporary arrangements are being made while the board looks at other alternatives - including partnership with other airlines.

PACIFIC: Study finds serious coral reef damageAudio

Updated 14/08/2007 11:52:34

New research has been published into the state of coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean and the findings are far from encouraging. It's the first comprehensive scientific survey of Pacific reefs and it's revealed a level of destruction far worse than previously thought.

VANUATU: More arrests expected in unfolding bank fraudAudio

Updated 14/08/2007 16:07:20

An extraordinary case of bank fraud is unfolding in Vanuatu. Several weeks ago prime minister Ham Lini sacked two parties from his coalition for alleged involvement in the fraud and now new information suggests at at least five police officers are allegedly involved in the case.

FIJI: Shadowy group offers $US6-billion land dealAudio

Updated 14/08/2007 16:07:20

In Fiji, a shadowy group promising to invest six billion Australian dollars in a development bank and other projects for indigenous Fijians, is worrying authorities.The group known as the Office of International Treasury Control claims to have links with the United Nations and with the United States Federal Reserve.

FIJI:Vatukoula gold mine re-opensAudio

Updated 14/08/2007 16:07:20

In Fiji, the Vatukoula goldmine has begun hiring workers as it gears up to return to full operations.The mine was closed in December with the loss of more than 17-hundred jobs after its former owner Emperor Mines ran up substantial losses.

WORLD: Biofuels driving food prices upAudio

Updated 13/08/2007 12:50:18

A decade ago, much was made of the potential for so-called bio-fuels to save the world from global warming. Biofuels -- which come from plants like corn and wheat - are supposed to be carbon-neutral.

PACIFIC: Global warming coming soonerAudio

Updated 13/08/2007 12:51:30

Scientists say global warming is on the way sooner than expected. Climate researchers at Britain's Bureau of Meteorology have revealed forecasts showing significant temperature rises will begin to emerge after 2009.

Papua:A foreign policy shame for Australia.Audio

Updated 13/08/2007 12:52:24

Australia's attitude to West Papua is one its three foreign policy shames according to a senior member of the Opposition Labor Party. Under the Lombok agreement signed recently with Indonesia, Australia has promised not to support separatist movements in West Papua or to encourage activities in Australia by people supportive of Papuan separtism.

PACIFIC: NZ Catholic Church dismisses sex-abuse priest claimsAudioTranscript

Updated 13/08/2007 16:11:25

The New Zealand Catholic church has dismissed claims that some priests who've sexually abused children are being shifted from Australia and New Zealand to the Pacific. A psychologist and former nun who earlier this year quit as complaints manager and head of the professional standards committee of the Order of St John of God in Australasia, says offending priests are often moved from country to country to avoid legal problems.

AUST: Andrew Hughes appointed top UN copAudioTranscript

Updated 13/08/2007 16:11:25

Fiji's former Police Commissioner, Australian Andrew Hughes, is to become the United Nation's top cop. Mr Hughes is one of Australia's most highly regarded police officers and will take up his new position next month as Police Advisor with the U-N's Department of Peace Operations.

FIJI: Union opposes proposed changes to Trade Disputes ActAudio

Updated 13/08/2007 16:11:25

Fiji's Nursing Association general-secretary is challenging the interim government to show how the nurses strike saved them 400-thousand Fiji dollars. Kuini Lutua says the military led goverment has left out the cost of overtime and salaries for replacement staff from its figures.

PNG: Sir Michael Somare sworn in as Prime MinisterAudio

Updated 13/08/2007 16:11:26

Papua New Guinea's eighth national parliament has returned Sir Michael Somare as prime minister. Geoffrey Nape was re-elected as the Speaker.

GUAM: Russians claim nuke bombers overflew GuamAudioTranscript

Updated 10/08/2007 14:41:44

Russia is claiming two of it's nuclear bombers overflew the US territory of Guam earlier this week, forcing US fighter jets to scramble to intercept them. In a reviving of the Cold War practice of sending long-range aircraft to test western air defence networks, Russia says the crews of two Tupolev 95 Bear aircraft exchanged smiles with the pilots of the American carrier-based fighter jets and then flew home.

SOLOMON IS: Speaker stands his groundAudioTranscript

Updated 10/08/2007 14:41:44

The Solomon Islands Speaker of the House Sir Peter Kenilorea declined an invitation from the government to stand aside while the vote of no confidence was debated today. Sir Peter disallowed a point of order contradicting the governments view that the vote of no-confidence should not be heard while there is a case before the courts involving the mover of the motion and the Speaker.

SOLOMON IS: No confidence motion withdrawn for nowAudio

Updated 10/08/2007 14:41:44

After over a month of waiting, the people of Solomon Islands will have to wait a little longer to find out if Prime Minister Manessah Sogavare will survive a motion of no confidence. The motion was withdrawn before debate began in parliament today because of legal action taken by the Prime Minister and the Attorney General Julian Moti against the speaker Sir Peter Kenilorea and the mover of the motion, opposition MP Edward Huniehu.

FRENCH POL: Plane crash claims at least 17 livesAudio

Updated 10/08/2007 14:41:44

In French Polynesia, 17 bodies have been recovered after an Air Moorea twin engine Dorner aircaft crashed earlier today. Twenty-people are believed to have been on the flight. Most of them are thought to be locals.

PNG: Police Comissioner attacked by armed rascalsAudio

Updated 10/08/2007 14:41:43

Papua New Guinea's Police Commissioner Gari Baki has been attacked by armed rascals while jogging in Port Moresby. Mr Baki was running between the Waigani market and the revival church when he was attacked.

FIJI: Qarase breaks exile to travel to SuvaAudioTranscript

Updated 10/08/2007 16:06:39

Ousted Fijian Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase says he will travel to Suva at the end of this month for the first time since he was exiled following the coup in December. Mr Qarase wants to meet his lawyers in Suva to discuss a court case he and a number of members of his SDL party are bringing against the interim government.

FIJI: Media sceptical about government inquiryAudio

Updated 10/08/2007 16:05:14

Many of Fiji's news organisations have been criticised for not participating in an inquiry into the media organised by the country's Human Rights Commission. The consultant appointed to head the inquiry, Dr James Anthony, says the decision by local media to stay away is disappointing.

FIJI: Nurses take military government to courtAudio

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:39

Fiji's Nursing Association members have decided to end their two week long strong and return to work on Saturday.The decision was reached after the interim government annouced it would not pay the nurses salaries due today but the General-Secretary for the Nursing Association Kuini Lutua says the fight to get back the five percent pay cut taken away earlier this year is not over.

Papua:A foreign policy shame for Australia.Audio

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:39

Australia's attitude to West Papua is one its three foreign policy shames according to a senior member of the Opposition Labor Party. Under the Lombok agreement signed recently with Indonesia, Australia has promised not to support separatist movements in West Papua or to encourage activities in Australia by people supportive of Papuan separtism.

PNG: Legal challenge to PM SomareAudioTranscript

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:40

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare's qualification to lead his National Alliance Party in forming a new government is being challenged in court. A rival group led by former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan says the constitution of Sir Michael's party does not allow a leader to run for the Prime Minister's position twice.

AUST: Downer warns of corrupt leaders in PacificAudio

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:40

Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has outlined the country's attitude and future committments to the Pacific in a keynote address in Canberra. He warned that corrupt leadership in some Pacific countries is taking its toll on the health and education of citizens.

SOLOMON IS: PM case a pretext to avoid voteAudioTranscript

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:40

There are claims that legal action being taken in Solomon Islands by the Prime Minister is an attempt to stop a motion of no confidence from being heard in parliament. Prime Minister Sogavare is taking civil action in the Solomon Islands High Court against the Speaker of Parliament and the intending mover of the motion of no-confidence, M-P Edward Huniehu.

PACIFIC:Private sector ideas go to Pacific Forum leadersAudio

Updated 09/08/2007 16:25:39

The Pacific Islands Business Forum has come up with a comprehensive program to put to Pacific Island leaders at their summit in Tonga in October. The Business Forum, held in Nadi, was the biggest and most comprehensive regional consultation ever held between the private sector and regional organisations and government Ministers.

NZ: Silent vigil against child abuseAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:27

Anti-violence campaigners in New Zealand say they're encouraged by the support they received today for a nationwide silent vigil against child abuse. In cities and towns across the country many people heeded their call to pause for a few minutes at lunchtime to condemn attacks on the young and the vulnerable .

SOLOMON IS: New board looks at salvaging Solomon AirlinesAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:27

The new board of Solomon Islands' flag carrier, Solomon Airlines is looking at ways to try to salvage the troubled airline.The airline is facing financial and operational problems, especially on its international routes.

FIJI: Military government ramps up pressure on nurses strikeAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:28

Fiji's interim government has stopped the payment of salaries to striking nurses to try to force them to return to work. Traditionally the docking of salaries for industrial action has been negotiated after the strikers have returned to work but this time the minister for Finance Mahendra Chaudhry has ordered pays to be stopped immediately.

SOLOMON IS: PM defends Moti with 666 questionsAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:28

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister has tabled in parliament a detailed defence of his attorney general Julian Moti in the form of a questionnaire containing 666 questions for the Australian Director of Public Prosecutions, Damian Bugg. The questionnaire deals with Julian Moti's arrest in Vanuatu, his prosecution and the attempts by Australia to arrest and prosecute him.

PNG: Violence breaks out in western highlandsAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:28

Violence has erupted in Papua New Guinea's Western Highlands with locals exchanging gunfire with security forces who tried to remove a roadblock on the PNG highlands highway. It's alleged tribesmen of former Prime Minister Pais Wingti torched a semi-trailer and raped five women following his defeat in the general election.

TONGA: Government defends sacking of top unionistAudio

Updated 08/08/2007 15:46:27

The Tongan government has defended the sacking of the general secretary of the country's Public Service Association, Mele Amanaki. She lost her job at the Ministry of Agriculture because of what the Public Service Commission describes as political activities.

TONGA: New political party to be based in two countriesAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 11:13:00

A new Tongan political party is to be officially launched in the Kingdom next week. The Langa Fonua Tuuloa, or Sustainable Nation Building Party, was started in New Zealand last year and aims to involve Tongans living overseas in the countrys politics.

FIJI: Let Bainimarama attend Forum.Audio

Updated 07/08/2007 11:14:17

Fiji's deposed opposition leader Mick Beddoes is urging Australia, New Zealand and other regional leaders to allow the country's interim Prime Minister to attend the forthcoming Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Tonga. Mr Beddoes was responding to comments by Australia's Foreign Minster Alexander Downer that Frank Bainimarama will not be welcome at the Forum.

TONGA: PSA official sacked, claims intimidationAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:48:07

The general secretary of Tonga's Public Service Association says she's lost her job because of her activities on behalf of the union. Mele Amanaki was sacked from the Ministry of Agriculture over what the Public Service Commission describes as political activities.

SOLOMON IS: Student killed in VanuatuAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:48:07

A young Solomon Islands student has died in Vanuatu after being injured in a fight at a nightclub in Port Vila.Paul Sikoasi of Malaita Province was a new student at the University of the South Pacific's Port Vila campus and was due to start classes today.

VANUATU: Sato Kilman to stay EPG ChairmanAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:49:52

Vanuatu politician Sato Kilman will stay on as the Chairman of the Pacific Island Forum's Fiji Eminent Persons Group despite being implicted in a million dollar fraud involving his country's national bank. Mr Kilman has lost his Foreign Affairs portfolio and his position as Deputy Prime Minister.

TONGA: Academic predicts formation of political partiesAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:53:10

The news that Tonga may be about to significantly increase the number of popularly-elected members of parliament has been welcomed by an expert in the country's political system. The tripartite committee on political reform has reached a consensus that the number of MPs elected by the people should be increased from nine to 17.

NZ: Opposition to Dubai bid for airportAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:54:17

Opposition is mounting in New Zealand to the proposed sale of the Auckland Airport to the Dubai Aerospace company. Trade Minister Phil Goff says the Government is opposed to the privatisation of New Zealand's airport and not just Dubai's offer.

PNG: Julius Chan says time for new leader and govtAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 15:56:37

Papua New Guinea is nearing the end of a lengthy election process that has spanned nearly six weeks. Current Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare is close to retaining the country's leadership after his National Alliance party was invited by the Governor General to form the next government but his main rival is a former Prime Minister who has returned to politics after a 10 year absence.

SOLOMON IS: Bartlett lashes out at AFPAudioTranscript

Updated 07/08/2007 15:50:57

A former spokesman for the Solomon Islands militant group, the Malaita Eagle Force, who has been acquitted of conspiracy says the charges against him were absurd. The High Court dismissed four charges against Alex Bartlett of murder, arson and riot in relation to last year's riots in Honiara.

FIJI: 20 nurses detained by policeAudioTranscript

Updated 07/08/2007 15:51:58

In Fiji, police have detained 20 nurses including the president of the Fijian Nursing Assocation Kuini Lutua for protesting outside the Cabinet offices in Suva. The military led government warned the nurses they would be arrested if they went ahead with their demonstration.

FIJI: Public Service strike collapsesAudio

Updated 07/08/2007 17:29:34

Fiji's public service strike has collapsed, with the Public Employees Union and the Viti National Union of Taukei Workers calling off their industrial action. The Fiji Islands Confederation of Trade Unions has announced its members will return to work tomorrow.

AUS: Downer says Bainimarama not welcome at ForumAudio

Updated 06/08/2007 10:53:45

Australia 's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer says Fiji's interim Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama will not be welcome at the forthcoming Pacific Islands Forum and he hopes he stays away . Mr Downer believes that's now a widely held view within the countries that make up the Forum .

PNG: Writs expected to be returned todayAudio

Updated 06/08/2007 10:53:46

PNG's Govenor General will have the country's election results on his desk by later today. Although Parliament does not sit for another week, indications are that Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare should have the numbers to continue in government.

TONGA: Recommendations for greater democracyAudioTranscript

Updated 06/08/2007 13:10:29

Tonga could be about to change its political system to give ordinary voters much more power. A tripartite committee of MPs set up to consider options for reform has reported back to Parliament asking for another month to finish its work, but it has already reached a consensus on some things, including changes to the makeup of the House which would see the people holding the majority of the seats.

SOLS: PM to be challenged by no-confidence voteAudio

Updated 06/08/2007 16:09:10

The national parliament of Solomon Islands will reconvene tomorrow when the leadership of Prime Minister Manessah Sogavare will again be challenged by a vote of no confidence. For over a month Mr Sogavare has lived under the shadow of a no confidence motion over his determination to appoint Julian Moti as the country's Attorney General.

PNG: Somare invited to form governmentAudio

Updated 06/08/2007 16:09:36

Papua New Guinea's electoral commissioner Andrew Trawen has finally declared the results of the 2007 general election. Our reporter in Port Moresby Firmin Nanol is at Parliament and witnessed the declaration inviting Sir Michael Somare to form the next government.

SOLS: Tight security for parliamentary sittingAudioTranscript

Updated 06/08/2007 16:09:10

Security will be tight in Honiara when the Solomon Islands parliament begins sitting tomorrow. Unlike the security situation during last year's riots, the Commander of the Regional Assistance Mission's police contingent, Denis McDermott says this time they are well prepared.

SOLOMON IS: Conflicting views on parliament proclamation.Audio

Updated 03/08/2007 10:38:54

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister and the Speaker of Parliament have expressed conflicting views on the proclamation of parliament meetings. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said recently that since independence, the Clerk had proclaimed parliament meetings but the Speaker of Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea says the Clerk never proclaimed parliament meetings.

VANUATU: Earthquake damage being assessed.Audio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:48:55

Vanuatu police are checking reports of a landslide on the southern part of Santo Island following yesterday's earthquake. Early reports say the landslide affected a South Santo community but the extent of damage is still not known.

PNG: Somare still ahead as final election results nearAudio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:49:30

With almost all the results from the Papua New Guinea election now announced, Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare's National Alliance Party is claiming the support of more than enough MP's to be able to form a government. But an alternative grouping led by former prime minister Sir Julius Chan is still trying to persuade MP's to support them.

NZ: All Black supporters compose new national songAudio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:48:55

In less than a month rugby's four-yearly global ritual begins in earnest, with more than 20 teams playing for the World Cup in France. In New Zealand, All Black supporters have come up with something special to lift team spirits.

FIJI: Minister welcomes signs strike is crumblingAudioTranscript

Updated 03/08/2007 15:50:23

A Fiji cabinet minister has welcomed signs that a nationwide public service strike may be crumbling. The strike called by the Fiji islands Confederation of Trade Unions began yesterday in the wake of a nationwide nurses strike.

FIJI: Union head insists strike is not crumblingAudio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:49:53

The secretary-general of the Fiji Islands Conferation of Trade Unions, Attar Singh, denies that the nationwide strike is in trouble. He says the Fijian Teachers Association has gone back to work but they have already filed notice that they will stage a second strike in 21 days.

SOLOMON IS: PM accused of being Moti puppetAudioTranscript

Updated 03/08/2007 15:53:25

The Executive Officer of Transparency Solomon Islands has described Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare as a puppet of Attorney General Julian Moti. Joses Tuhanuku was reacting to Mr Sogavare's claim that leaders of the Civil Society network are a bunch of individuals serving foreign interests.

PACIFIC: New Australian technical college opensAudio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:54:46

The new Australian Pacific Technical College has began its first classes in Vanuatu. The Australian government is providing nearly 130-million dollars U-S over the next five years to set up and run four campuses across the Pacific.

TONGA: Kele'a editor defends 'Anti-christ' articleAudio

Updated 03/08/2007 15:51:48

A Tongan newspaper editor is defending his publication against government accusations of printing seditious articles.The government has criticised the pro-democracy Kele'a newspaper over what it describes as a hate campaign against Prime Minister, Doctor Fred Sevele, including one article which speculated that he was the anti-christ.

PNG: Sir Julius Chan emerges as PM rivalAudioTranscript

Updated 02/08/2007 15:46:44

Former Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan has been nominated as a main rival to challenge Sir Michael Somare for the Prime Minister's post in a bid to form an alternate government. Sir Julius was nominated by another former Prime Minister, Sir Mekere Morauta and former government treasurer Bart Philemon.

PACIFIC: Aust keen to begin free regional trade talksAudio

Updated 02/08/2007 15:46:44

Australia has told the Pacific Trade Ministers meeting in Vanuatu it is keen to begin free trade negotiations with the region. Historically, Pacific leaders have been wary of such a move because it would mean duty free access for Australian products and could create an influx of cheap Australian goods that would kill off local jobs and industries.

VANUATU: earthquake disrupts power & waterAudio

Updated 02/08/2007 16:01:35

A powerful earthquake has struck Vanuatu creating panic and disrupting power and water supplies. The magnitude seven-point-three quake was about 45 kilometres southeast of the central island of Santo.

FIJI: Strike motivation could be political says unionistAudio

Updated 02/08/2007 15:51:40

The motivation behind the strike in Fiji has been questioned by the head of a union which doesn't belong to the Fiji Islands Confederation of Trade Unions. The general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, Agni Deo Singh, says his members have nothing to do with the strike, having already made an agreement with the interim government about how and when to restore the five per cent pay cut.

FIJI: Unionist alleges army threatened to kill himAudioTranscript

Updated 02/08/2007 15:52:54

A prominent Fiji trade unionist is alleging he was threatened with death by the country's military. The general secretary of the Viti National Union of Taukei Workers and a senior figure in the Fiji Islands Confederation of Trade Unions, Taniela Tabu, says he was interrogated, assaulted, imprisoned and threatened after being taken to the Queen Elizabeth barracks in Suva yesterday.

PNG: Calls for voiding of rapists electoral winAudio

Updated 02/08/2007 16:13:11

The public outcry against convicted rapist James Yali being able to take his seat in the PNG parliament is growing.The former Governor of Madang province is serving a 12-year jail sentence after being convicted in 2004 of raping a 17 year-old girl.

AUSTRALIA:Public Opinion favours more aidAudio

Updated 02/08/2007 16:14:28

Australian's believe their government should make a bigger contribution to overseas aid according to a new report released by World Vision. The report found 60-per cent of people thought Australia was in the top 10 aid donors in the world, when in fact the country rates 15th.

PNG: claims sex abuse priests moved to the PacificAudio

Updated 01/08/2007 13:42:05

There's been a warning that some Roman Catholic priests involved in the sexual abuse of children maybe being moved to the Pacific Islands. It comes from Michelle Mulvihill, a psychologist and former nun who earlier this year quit as complaints manager and head of the professional standards committee of the Order of St John of God in Australasia.

PACIFIC; Trade row flares with the European UnionAudio

Updated 01/08/2007 15:58:05

A major row has flared between Pacific members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States and the European Union, just five months before they are to finalise an economic partnership agreement. Trade ministers of the Pacific meeting in Vanuatu now hope the row - over the Europeans insistence on linking partnership agreement negotiations with its existing development aid package - will not stall negotiations.

PNG: Row over ruling party using a government aircraftAudioTranscript

Updated 01/08/2007 15:58:06

Papua New Guinea's election results are close to being finally declared and the usual political horse-trading is now well under way, with Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare's National Alliance Party claiming to already have the numbers to retain government. But a row has blown up over the party's apparent use of a government aircraft to fly independent MPs to meet party officials and MPs in Kokopo, in East New Britain.

FIJI: Senior union man taken to military barracksAudioTranscript

Updated 01/08/2007 15:59:02

Fiji trade unionists are concerned about the welfare of a senior colleague who has been taken to the military barracks in Suva on the eve of a major strike. The vice-president of the Fiji Islands Confederation of Trade Unions, Taniela Tabu, was at last report still being held by the military.

FIJI: New study finds Fiji most expensive place in Asia-PacificAudio

Updated 01/08/2007 16:03:26

Fiji has become the most expensive place to live in the Asia Pacific region according to a new study by the Asian Development Bank. The finding comes as no surprise to the Fijian Council of Social Services.

NAURU: Snap election called for late AugustAudio

Updated 01/08/2007 17:05:01

The people of Nauru will be going to the polls later this month. President Ludwig Scotty has announced a snap election, dissolving the current 18 member parliament.

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