March 2008

Nauru political crisis still deadlockedAudioTranscript

Updated 31/03/2008 13:39:01

There is still no end to the political deadlock gripping the parliament of Nauru. For more than two weeks the opposition and government have been fighting for control of the country and the parliament. Nearly a fortnight ago Opposition MP David Adeang was successfully nominated as the speaker of parliament, after government aligned speaker Riddell Akua stood down, to stall a vote of no confidence in President Marcus Stephen. But that move has given the opposition control, and it's trying to stop two government ministers from entering the house.

New all-Maori TV channel launchedAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:45:02

New Zealand's Maori Television station is expanding its service by starting a new channel, which will broadcast solely in the Maori language. The station has been operating for four years now, and chief executive Jim Mather says the launch of the channel, named "Te Reo", is another milestone in the battle to secure the future of the Maori language.

New Caledonia Reserve Bank says 2007 very positiveAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:46:50

A new report by the New Caledonia Reserve Bank says 2007 was a very positive year for the territory despite a stagnation in tourism. The healthy outlook follows the recent announcement of record profits by the New Caledonian mining firm S-L-N from its nickel mining operations last year.

Investigation into missing UN funds in PNGAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:49:15

Papua New Guinea's Minister for Community Development and Youth, Dame Carol Kidu has ordered an investigation into the alleged misuse of United Nation's money intended for the PNG Youth Commission.

Mixed reaction to Australian seasonal workers planAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:56:20

Pacific Islanders could be one step closer to working in Australia following the announcement that Australia is considerring a seasonal workers scheme. Australian farming groups have welcomed the news, saying it's a long overdue solution to a chronic labour shortage, particularly in rural and regional areas. Australian unions are concerned foreign workers will take Australian jobs but farmers say Australians don't want the mainly low skilled, labour intensive jobs - and they have thousands of vacancies to prove it. The Australian government says the debate is premature, that no announcements have been made and none will until the results of New Zealands recently implemented program can be clearly seen.

Australian Minister says Pacific economic growth prospects are goodAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:58:21

Economic growth in the Pacific has picked up and is forecast to be reach a high of four-point-five percent this year.That's the conclusion of AusAid's first annual Pacific Economic Survey launched in Vanuatu today by Australia's Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs, Duncan Kerr. The report nominates economic reform and better macroeconomic management, success in tourism, increasing remittances and the resources boom in Papua New Guinea as contributing factors.

Big naval exercise in New CaledoniaAudio

Updated 31/03/2008 16:52:29

Patrol boats from Papua New Guinea, Tonga and Vanuatu are taking part in a naval exercise in New Caledonia aimed at improving the region's ability to respond to a natural disaster. Exercise Southern Cross which runs for the next two weeks, will simulate a tsunami disaster in a fictional Pacific island nation, played by the northern end of New Caledonia's main island, Grand Terre. Royal Australian Navy Captain Peter Laver, the task group commander, aboard HMAS Kanimbla, says landing ships from Australia, New Zealand and France will be training alongside the three Pacific patrol boats.

Tension high on Bougainville after 3 killedAudioTranscript

Updated 31/03/2008 17:10:06

472The situation in the Buin area of South Bougainville is still tense following a recent clash in which three Mekamui rebels were killed. Acting Police Commander on Bougainville, Cletus Tsien says the Mekamui band of rebels led by Damien Koike, were attacked by pro-government ex-combatants 10 days ago. He says attempts by police to get both parties involved to negotiate have so far been unsuccessful. Mr Tsien says the issue between the pro and anti government factions involved in the clash is not new.

Strike disrupts television in New CaledoniaAudio

Updated 28/03/2008 16:41:27

French Polynesia is already feeling the effects of a strike that is disrupting fuel supplies. Now another industrial dispute has emerged .. this one involves a conflict between unions and the management of a public television station over the broadcast of a pornographic movie.

Taiwan denies cheque book diplomacyAudio

Updated 28/03/2008 16:43:00

Taiwan's Ambassador in Honiara, George Chan says his country has not and will not engage in cheque book diplomacy in Solomon Islands. He was responding to claims by former Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer that Taiwan has been paying political bribes in the Pacific. Ambassador Chan says Mr Downer is using Taiwan as a scape-goat for his own failure as foreign minister in dealing with the former Solomon Islands government.

Aust takes next step on short-term seasonal work schemeAudio

Updated 28/03/2008 16:45:04

Australia's next step in its consideration of a short-term seasonal labour scheme for Pacific Islanders, is to examine the demand for such a scheme in Australia. Pacific Island leaders have been calling for such a scheme for years, but the former Howard government refused to entertain the option. In opposition, the ruling Labor Party had also been opposed to such a scheme but since coming to office and holding wide consultations with Pacific Island governments, the Rudd government has been more positive towards the idea.

Academic says Chinese loans could help Fiji's econonyAudio

Updated 28/03/2008 16:46:33

An expert on Fiji's economy says the country's depleted foreign reserves desperately needs the injection of funds curently being negotiated with China. Fiji is negotiating loans totalling 230-million US dollars for development of rural roads, water supply, low cost housing and shipping infrastructure. An economist with the Australian National University in Canberra, Satish Chand says if the money is spent on development it could have a short term positive impact on Fiji's economy.

Telecommunications showdown in PNGAudioTranscript

Updated 28/03/2008 16:53:44

An ongoing telecommunications wrangle between the Papua New Guinea government and an Irish mobile phone company is coming to a head. Soon Parliament will decide whether to change a policy that will give the state owned Telikom a monopoly to operate a single international gateway. The change would mean the new market player, Digicel, would have to direct its international calls through Telikom.

Global rice shortage hits PacificAudio

Updated 28/03/2008 16:54:17

Consumers are being urged to prepare for higher prices in the cost of rice as global shortages begin to affect the Pacific. The price of rice is at a 20-year high, creating hardships for those already dealing with increases in the cost of other staple food items and fuel. And there are fears some may try to cash in on the problem, as demand for rice grows.

Australian farmers welcome move on guest workersAudioTranscript

Updated 28/03/2008 16:57:46

In Australia farming groups have welcomed the news that the government is now considering allowing Pacific Islanders to come to Australia as guest workers.

Good prospects of reopening Bougainville copper mineAudioTranscript

Updated 28/03/2008 17:00:33

There are 'positive prospects' for reopening the Panguna copper mine in Papua New Guinea's Autonomous Bougainville province, with local landowners planning a major reconciliation. The mine was closed nearly 20 years ago during a secessionist conflict led by the late Francis Ona, which was sparked by landowner issues and environmental damage caused by the mine.

Tonga to start first commercial undersea mining explorationAudio

Updated 27/03/2008 12:42:55

Tonga is the latest Pacific country to join the rush towards commercial exploration of its undersea mineral resources. Leading undersea mining and exploration company, Nautilus Minerals is launching a new Pacific exploration campaign with five million of its 20-million US dollar campaign to be spent in the Kingdom. It will be the first time such commercial exploration has taken place in Tonga.

NZ defence minister visits East TimorAudioTranscript

Updated 27/03/2008 12:55:24

New Zealand's defence minister Phil Goff has made his first visit to East Timor since the attacks last month on the country's leaders that left President Jose Ramos Horta wounded and rebel leader Alfredo Reinado dead. Mr Goff met with the country's leaders and expressed his support for East Timor in the wake of the attacks and discussed the continuation of New Zealand's commitment to the international stabilization force.

Debate on Solomons budget starts todayAudio

Updated 27/03/2008 12:57:05

The Solomon Islands parliament will resume its sitting today to debate the 2008 national budget. The one-point-four billion Solomon Islands dollar budget, was tabled by Finance Minister Snyder Rini on Tuesday. The government has been operating under a contingency warrant which expires at the end of this month - so parliament has to pass the budget by then.

Former Solomons PM criticies Australian aid programAudio

Updated 27/03/2008 16:08:23

Australia's aid programme in Solomon Islands has been criticised in the Solomon Islands national parliament. Former prime minister and opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare says Australia's aid programme has failed miserably in his country.

Ex-Aust foreign minister calls for Pacific guest workersAudioTranscript

Updated 27/03/2008 16:10:58

Australia's previous Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, says the Rudd Government should give South Pacific Islanders special rights to work in Australia. Mr Downer says he favours a scheme for Islanders to enter Australia, even though this was not the policy of the Howard Government. He says labour mobility should be offered to Pacific Islands in return for their commitment to meet minimum standards of governance.

No end to Nauru parliamentary crisisAudio

Updated 27/03/2008 16:13:45

Nauru's speaker of parliament, opposition Member David Adeang is expected to enforce a ban on two government M-P's entering the house when it sits late tomorrow. On Easter Saturday, a sitting of Parliament, unattended by any government M-P's, passed a motion and set new rules which will bar entry to parliament of any member who has dual citizenship. The government has already indicated it will challenge that ruling in Nauru's Supreme Court.

NZ foreign minister warns Fiji about forum powerAudio

Updated 27/03/2008 16:16:15

New Zealand's Foreign Minister has issued a warning to Fiji not to underestimate the power of the Pacific Islands Forum Secetariat. Winston Peters has hinted at stronger moves against Fiji if it fails to honour an election promise given at the Forum in Tonga. Mr Peters says the University of the South Pacific is one example of an institution which is financed by a number of Forum member countries.

NZ & Australia pressure Fiji for electionsAudio

Updated 26/03/2008 10:31:36

Australia and New Zealand say they will continue to pressure the interim government in Fiji for elections to be held in March next year. Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, and his New Zealand counterpart, Winston Peters reaffirmed this commitment during talks in Auckland yesterday. They told a news conference in Auckland late yesterday that they want a firm commitment on an early free and fair election in Fiji.

Academic says Fiji's 'good governance coup' faces failureAudio

Updated 26/03/2008 10:33:56

Fiji's December 2006 coup conducted in the name of good governance is now facing impending failure. That's according to academic, Jon Fraenkel who says attempts by the interim government to stamp out corruption and racism have failed. Dr Franenkel addressed his concerns in a paper "The Impending Failure of Fiji's Good Governance Coup" for the State Society and Governance in Melanesia project at the Australian National University.

Talks try to resolve strike in French PolynesiaAudio

Updated 26/03/2008 17:24:28

Talks have resumed in French Polynesia in an attempt to resolve a strike disrupting fuel supplies. Fuel stocks are running low and the pressure is on to find a solution to avoid a shortage.

Vandals damage runway lights at Port MoresbyAudioTranscript

Updated 26/03/2008 17:27:03

Papua New Guinea Civil Aviation Authorities are investigating an incident which prevented an Air Niugini flight from Singapore landing after vandals damaged runway lights at Port Moresby airport.

Former Aust Foreign Minister says Taiwan bribing PacificAudio

Updated 26/03/2008 17:29:17

Australia's previous Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, says Taiwan has been paying political bribes in the South Pacific. He says Taiwan's President-elect, Ma Ying-Jeou, has promised him that the new government will stop "dollar diplomacy" in the Pacific. Mr Downer was in Taiwan for Saturday's election and says Dr Ma gave him a personal assurance about improving Taiwan's behaviour.

Foreign ministers apply pressure to FijiAudio

Updated 26/03/2008 17:31:14

Foreign Ministers meeting in New Zealand today applied pressure on Fiji to provide a timetable for democratic elections next year. The 16 ministers were unamious in their resolve to make sure Fiji's delegates report that message back to the interim regime. A three page document detailing the outcome of the meeting was published today.

Two parliamentary by-elections in Solomon IslandsAudio

Updated 25/03/2008 17:17:50

The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission is deploying police to polling stations during two parliamentary by-elections in Malaita Province on Thursday. The by-elections in the Aoke-Langalanga and East Malaita constituencies follow the deaths of the sitting members last year. They were Bartholomew Ulufa'alu a former prime minister; and Joses Sanga, a former government minister. The Director of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, Musu Kevu says the two women are mounting a good challenge against their male opponents.

Australian, NZ foreign ministers hold talksAudio

Updated 25/03/2008 17:36:53

Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith met today in Auckland for his first talks with New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters. And tomorrow Foreign Ministers from across the region will also gather in Auckland for discussions which are expected to feature recent events in Fiji.

Two dead, one missing in New Caledonia floodingAudio

Updated 25/03/2008 17:46:27

In New Caledonia, two people are dead and another is missing after torrential rain and flooding over the weekend. One man died in a road accident between the villages of La Foa and Boulouparis and another died trying to cross a river. Emergency services are still searching for a third person feared downed.

Tongan minister docked three months payAudio

Updated 25/03/2008 17:48:22

Tonga's Minister of Tourism will have to work without pay for the next three months. This follows a report from the Auditor General into the deposit of a cheque from the Chinese Embassy into the Minister's personal account. Fineasi Funaki's handling of the 16-hundred US dollar donation from the Chinese Embassy to the Ministry was the subject of an official investigation after the Minister's CEO, Edgar Cocker, wrote a letter of complaint to the prime minister.

Cloud over future of Nauru governmentAudio

Updated 25/03/2008 17:50:51

A week after an attempted motion of no confidence in Nauru there is still a cloud over the future of the island nation's government. Right now President Marcus Stephen is the leader of the country. But with the successful appointment last Thursday of opposition MP David Adeang as the speaker of parliament, in many ways the government has lost control of the institution which makes the laws for the country. So far the opposition's held one meeting of parliament without any government MP's, and the government's concerned this will happen again soon.

Police say crime rising in HoniaraAudio

Updated 21/03/2008 10:45:33

In Solomon Islands, incidences of armed robbery and break-ins are reported to have dramatically increased in the eastern part of the capital, Honiara. Police say the main targets have been the Ranadi industrial area and homes in east Honiara. They say in some instances, gangs of youths have attacked security guards in their attempt to steal from business premises.

Flour price hike putting bread out of reachAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 08:56:55

There's been a call for consumers in Fiji to boycott bread in protest at yet another flour price rise. Fiji Council of Social Services director, Hassan Khan, says low income families will be hard hit by the latest price hike - the fifth time flour's gone up in just seven months. Fiji's Prices and Incomes Board has said the cost of flour will rise by ten cents a kilo, from $1.37 to $1.47, and a kilo of sharps will also go up ten cents.

PACIFIC: Education reforms to boost Pacific learningAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 08:58:00

Education in the Pacific is again in the spotlight, with two nations implementing programs to enhance development. Tonga is establishing a National Qualifications and Accreditation Board, to help highschool graduates further their education; while Fiji is working to create a registration board to raise teacher standards. The developments are taking place against the backdrop of a wider debate over whether education in the Pacific should be standardised, and whether students are better serviced on their home islands or abroad.

Women's rights recognised by USAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 08:58:47

It's back to work for two Pacific Island Women after winning the United States Government's most prestigious awards for courage. The Executive Director of the Fiji Women's Rights Movement, Virisila Buadromo and a Papua New Guinea woman living with HIV/AIDS, Helen Samilo, were recognized by the US government for championing human and equal rights in their communities. The Secretary of State's International Women of Courage Award for 2008 was presented by Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice in Washington.

Korean finally laid to rest in Pago PagoAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 08:59:29

In American Samoa, a Korean man who died nearly a year ago, will be buried in Pago Pago later today. The man's body has been in LBJ hospital morgue for almost 12 months while authorities tried to contact his family in Korea. No-one has come forward to accept responsibility for the body. Chief Satele Galu Satele has now agreed to have the man buried on his family land.

Fate of RAMSI envoy still unknown.Audio

Updated 20/03/2008 09:00:01

The Solomon Islands' government envoy to RAMSI, Michael Maina says he has yet to be officially informed of his dismissal from the position. It's being reported in Solomon Islands that Mr Maina has been dismissed, because he's challenging the electoral result in the seat of a key minister in Dr Derek Sikua's government. Mr Maina says he's yet to hear if that is correct, and is continuing with his duties. But others there are claiming the move to get rid of Michael Maina has more to do with trying to get rid of RAMSI.

Qarase pledges fresh elections if he wins court challengeAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 15:42:40

Fiji's ousted prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, has promised that if he is returned to power, he will dissolve parliament and call fresh elections. His lawyer gave Mr Qarase's pledge to the High Court in Suva, which finished hearing the former leader's challenge to the legitimacy of the interim government earlier today. Now that the case has been heard, the three judges, headed by Chief Justice Anthony Gates -- say they will make their ruling by notice.

Former minister Adeang becomes Parliament SpeakerAudio

Updated 20/03/2008 15:41:59

Nauru's former Finance and Foreign Minister, David Adeang, has become the Speaker of Parliament, just two days after he and former President Rene Harris failed in a bid to stage a vote of no confidence in the Marcus Stephen government. The political upheaval comes two weeks after a riot on the island involving around a hundred youths, in which a police station was burned down.

US Senate bill could ban foreign workersAudioTranscript

Updated 19/03/2008 08:53:28

Guest workers may be banned from the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas by 2014, if a landmark bill is passed by the United States Senate. Bill S.2739 is widely expected to be passed this year, and one of its many provisions allows for the Marianas to be federalised -- bringing immigration and work practices under US mainland control. The Marianas government has vehemently opposed the bill, saying it will destroy its struggling economy. But many of the islands' residents are speaking out in support of federalisation; they accuse the government of using a scare campaign to maintain the status quo.

Opposition polician welcomes RuddAudio

Updated 19/03/2008 08:54:13

A prominent member of Solomon Islands' parliamentary opposition, Charles Dausabea says the recently elected government of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is a good thing for his country. Mr Dausabea was the chief whip in the former Sogavare government, which was at odds on many issues with the former Howard government in Australia. He says however, that the Solomon Islands public and both sides of national politics favour Mr Rudd's leadership.

PNG forces 'ill-equipped' for overseas deploymentsAudioTranscript

Updated 19/03/2008 08:58:17

Papua New Guinean soldiers could be deployed as United Nations peacekeepers if the PNG parliament approves new ''Forces Abroad'' legislation later this year. PNG Defence Force leader, Commodore Peter Ilau, says the proposed bill is the product of more than three years of discussion. If it is passed into law, PNG troops could be sent abroad to serve as UN peacekeepers, or in regional missions in countries like Solomon Islands and East Timor.

Australian judges role in Fiji debateableAudioTranscript

Updated 19/03/2008 08:59:19

An attempt by a Fiji non-government organisation to have an Australian Judge serving on the High Court of Fiji investigated in her home state of Victoria, raises significant issues, according to the Victorian Bar Council. The Pacific Centre for Public Integrity has written to the Victorian state attorney general, and to the state's Legal Services Commissioner, asking for an investigation into the professional conduct of Judge Jocelyn Scutt. The PCPI argues that any Australian lawyer appointed to the Fijian bench after the 2006 coup is breaking their oath to uphold the law. Peter Riordan, the Victorian Bar Council chairman, tells Bruce Hill the PCPI obviously feels that expatriate lawyers shouldn't serve as judges in Fiji at the moment, but says judges might argue they are actually trying to uphold the law.

Australian experts advise on cattle tick-fever outbreak

Updated 19/03/2008 15:47:47

A team of Australian experts is in New Caledonia to assist the government control an outbreak of tick fever, brought into the country last week in imported Australian cattle. The delegation includes Australia's chief veterinarian, an advisor from the Queensland Tick Institute, and an official from the Australian Agriculture Ministry. New Caledonia's government is meeting today on how to stop the disease spreading across the territory.

Coup court case drawing to a closeAudio

Updated 19/03/2008 15:49:35

In Fiji, the court case brought by deposed prime minister Laisenia Qarase challenging the legality or otherwise of the December 2006 coup adjourned early today. Lawyers for the State completed their closing arguments this morning. The court will resume tomorrow to hear lead counsel for Mr Qarase summarise his case. If the case winds up tomorrow its thought the judges panel presided over by Justice Anthony Gates could take up to four weeks to hand down its finding.

Oil Search gives top priority to LNG ProjectAudio

Updated 19/03/2008 15:48:59

Papua New Guinea's biggest company, Oil Search, says delivering its $US10 billion Liquid Natural Gas project is its highest priority for the next 5 years. Oil Search is a key partner in the ExxonMobil-led project - which independent economic experts say could double PNG's gross domestic product and create an income stream for government and landowners of $US31 billion over the next three decades. Oil Search Managing Director, Peter Botton, briefed brokers and journalists on the results of his company's 5-year strategic review in the eastern Australian city of Sydney.

Fate of RAMSI envoy still unclearAudio

Updated 19/03/2008 15:50:42

The Solomon Islands' government envoy to RAMSI, Michael Maina says he has yet to be officially informed of his dismissal from the position. It is being reported in Solomon Islands that Mr Maina has been dismissed because he's challenging the electoral result in the seat of a key minister in Dr Derek Sikua's government. Mr Maina says he's yet to hear if that is correct, and is continuing with his duties. But others there are claiming the move to get rid of Michael Maina has more to do with trying to get rid of RAMSI.

Transit visa requirement droppedAudioTranscript

Updated 18/03/2008 08:36:52

Pacific Island community leaders in New Zealand have welcomed the decision to scrap transit visas for people from most island countries travelling through Auckland airport. Many Pacific Islanders have to come via Auckland when travelling between countries in the region, and up to now they've had to apply for a transit visa, costing $A105. That requirement has now been scrapped.

Sir Michael to relinquish powerAudio

Updated 18/03/2008 08:36:58

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare has announced that he is contemplating retirement.
Sir Michael says after 40 in politics he "does not want to stay in power any more".

Schoolchildren 'turning to prostitution' over school feesAudio

Updated 18/03/2008 08:37:04

School children in Papua New Guinea are reportedly turning to prostitution and the drug trade to raise funds to pay for school fees. A survey by the ''Tingim Life'' (Think About Life'') program, which is funded by Australia's international aid agency AusAID, has revealed marginalised children, especially young girls, are offering sex to help pay for their education.

Jailed mayor among To Tatou Ai'a election winnersAudio

Updated 18/03/2008 15:57:41

There have been a few surprises in results from the second round of local elections in French Polynesia. President Gaston Flosse's party, the pro-autonomy group Tahoera'a Hueraatira has lost its stronghold over the township of Pirae to the To Tatou Ai'a candidate. To Tatou Ai'a did well in other parts of French Polynesia, winning several large townships. One of them is Mahina, where the mayor, Emile Vernaudon, was re-elected, despite being in jail.

Samoan MPs' resignation 'unprecedented'Audio

Updated 18/03/2008 15:59:14

The Samoan Government faces turmoil following the resignation of two MPs from the ruling Human Rights Protection Party. Palusalue Fa'apo and Muagututi'a Siaosi Meredith oppose the government's plans to switch the driving code to the left-side of the road, and the planned import of right-hand-drive vehicles from New Zealand. The two MPs argue the switch will be dangerous and expensive. The HRPP is pushing ahead with its controversial plan, and more resignations are expected, with some analysts even predicting the downfall of the government.

Nauru president's government challengedAudio

Updated 18/03/2008 15:59:45

The government of Nauru has won an extra two days' grace before having to face yet another no-confidence motion. President Marcus Stephen has been facing the prospect of a challenge to his power for the past week and a half - linked to the recent fire which destroyed the country's main police station and prison.

Telemedicine to give cutting-edge care in GuamAudio

Updated 17/03/2008 08:42:22

Medical patients on Guam will soon get access to doctors all over the world, thanks to a new, high-technology medical system. Telemedicine technology will connect Guam's health services with medical specialists abroad, via a high-speed broadband internet connection. The equipment is expected to be available at Guam's only civilian hospital, the Guam Memorial Hospital in 30 days, funded by the Guam Healthcare and Hospital Development Foundation, Guam Radiology Consultants and internet provider, TeleGuam.

United Nations sets up new joint venturesAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2008 08:45:30

The United Nations is opening new offices in Marshall Islands and Micronesia to expand its presence in smaller island nations. The new programs in Majuro and Phonpei will become part of a joint venture involving three UN agencies. UNICEF, UNDP and the UN's Population Fund will all work from the same office. Joint ventures will also be set up in Tuvalu, Nauru, Kiribati, Palau and Vanuatu. From Suva in Fiji, the UNDP already covers 10 Pacific countries.

Fiji concerns could mar Australia's 'new Pacific era'AudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2008 08:46:16

Australia is starting to confront what "a new era" in relations with the South Pacific might actually mean. It is being reflected, for example, in the warmer language being used by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's government about special access to Australia for Pacific Island workers. But Canberra's promise of a more understanding tone in talking to the Pacific is colliding with deepening concerns about Fiji's military regime.

Crack-down on illegal migrant workers.AudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2008 08:55:19

Solomon Islands Labour and Immigration authorities have launched a joint crack-down on illegal migrant workers. The Acting Commissioner of Labour, Josiah Manehia says the action follows the discovery of 48 Asians working for a logging company in Malaita Province without work permits. He says the crackdown will include include tighter immigration controls at Honiara Airport and visits by labour officials to logging camps.

Five women set to become township mayorsAudio

Updated 17/03/2008 16:15:12

New Caledonia has now completed the second round of voting in local elections, with around 100,000 voters casting their ballots in 10 townships across the country. Those candidates who didn't win an outright victory in the first round included the Mayor of the capital Noumea, Jean-Leques, who had to go to a second round for the first time since taking office in 1986. He's now secured re-election in the run-off, picking up just under 50 percent of the votes.

Most escapees back behind barsAudio

Updated 17/03/2008 16:16:42

In Vanuatu, most of the 21 inmates who escaped recently from Port Vila's main prison are now back behind bars. Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Arthur Caulton says only six prisoners were still at large by Monday afternoon. Mr Caulton says the escapees included inmates who'd been convicted of serious crimes including murder and rape.

Budget 'priority' as Solomons holds first parliament sessionAudio

Updated 17/03/2008 16:16:04

The Solomon Islands parliament has held its first session for the year, with discussion focusing on the urgent task of passing the 2008 budget. The government is currently operating on contingency funding, and must pass the $1.4 billion Solomon dollar budget before the start of the new financial year in April.

Prominent lawyer claims he received military 'threat'AudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2008 16:48:37

782A prominent lawyer in Fiji says he has received a threatening phone call from the military. Graham Leung believes an article he wrote criticising the interim government called "Exposing the Lie" is the reason for the alleged call. Mr Leung also believes his email is being hacked and his phone calls tapped. Efforts made by Pacific Beat to contact Interim Prime Minister and military spokesman Commodore Frank Bainimarama regarding Mr Leung's allegations were unsuccessful. As a lawyer Mr Leung is currently part of the legal team defending businessman Ballu Khan for allegedly being involved in an assassination attempt on the interim prime minister and interim attorney general.

Rare bird gives hope to PNG conservationistsAudioTranscript

Updated 14/03/2008 08:54:31

As a campaign to protect Papua New Guinea's biodiversity steps up, the rediscovery of a rare bird there has given conservationists cause for celebration. Scientists from the World Wide Fund for Nature have warned that PNG's rich biodiversity is under threat from invading foreign flora and fauna. But a bird not seen for 80 years has recently been sighted, giving conservationists some cause for hope.

Health authorities tracking typhoid outbreakAudio

Updated 14/03/2008 08:54:36

In Fiji, health authorities want to develop strategies to control the outbreak of typhoid. A meeting on Thursday brought together the Sugarcane Growers Council, the rural water supply and multi-ethnic affairs, to develop strategies to control the spread of the disease. Since January this year, 65 people have been diagnosed with typhoid. 19 of the confirmed cases are in Macuata in the northern division.

Inmates mass walk outAudio

Updated 14/03/2008 08:54:42

744A loop-hole in Vanuatu's new Correctional Legislation has been blamed as a major contributing factor to three mass escapes from the main prison in Port Vila so far this year. Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Arthur Caulton says, inadequate correctional services resources were also a problem. Mr Caulton says that by late on Thursday, a total of 21 inmates were still at large after the latest escape. He says among those who've escaped is a detainee who was charged in January with brutally murdering an Australian woman at her home outside Port Vila.

Noumea mayor faces surprise second election roundAudio

Updated 14/03/2008 16:05:53

The second round of New Caledonia's local elections is taking place on Sunday. Ten townships will be casting votes, including in the capital Noumea, where the Mayor, Jean Leques , failed to win a first round majority for the first time since taking office in 1986. Final results are expected by Monday.

Port Moresby would welcome Australian police returnAudio

Updated 14/03/2008 16:07:26

PNG's deputy Prime Minister Puka Temu has been speaking on the prospect of Australian police returning to duty in his country. That possibility was raised following Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's visit to PNG earlier this month. Canberra pulled Federal police out of PNG in 2005, after the government of Sir Michael Somare refused to guarantee them immunity from prosecution. But relations between the two governments have improved since then.

Deputy PNG Prime Minister visits AustraliaAudioTranscript

Updated 14/03/2008 16:08:56

As PNG's stock exchange continues to outperform bourses in much of the rest of the world, the country's deputy prime minister Dr Puka Temu says Port Moresby is aiming for an annual growth of more than 10 percent in the coming decade. Much of that wealth is expected to be generated by PNG's Liquid Niugini Gas project, which will ultimately see around $US7 billion, or 19 billion kina, invested in a two-train gas processing plant at Napa Napa, near the capital. On a visit to Australia, Dr Temu says the terms of the LNG deal could be finalised in the next few weeks.

More criticism for Fiji human rights commissionerAudio

Updated 14/03/2008 16:12:26

Fiji has again featured prominently in the United States Department of State's annual report on Human Rights Practises. But the negative report from the US has been attacked by Fiji's Human Right's Commissioner Dr Shaista Shameem, who says the US has no right to criticise any country. Her attack has drawn fresh criticism of her, and her role in Fiji since the 2006 coup.

Port Moresby Stock Exchange hits new highsAudioTranscript

Updated 13/03/2008 08:43:43

The Port Moresby Stock Exchange continues to defy world trends, posting another new record high this week, as the Kina Securities Index broke through the 6000 point barrier. The new record high means Papua New Guinea's stock exchange has gained almost 6 per cent this year, while the Australian Stock Exchange, even after yesterday's strong performance, has suffered a 16 per cent fall.

Business coalition criticses government's HIV responseAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 08:45:25

In Papua New Guinea an influential volunteer group has described as "feeble" the government's response to the country's HIV AIDS epidemic. In the twelve months since BAHA - the Business Coalition against HIV AIDS - began operating, it's already approved 42 HIV workplace policies for employers. By contrast, the government's National Aids Council has been in existence for a decade and has been plagued by bureaucratic wrangles and maladministration. Business Coalition boss Rod Mitchell is critical of the government's leadership in the battle against one of PNG's biggest threats.

Fears tick fever could spread throughout New CaledoniaAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 08:45:32

And officials in New Caledonia have indeed confirmed that domestic cattle herds have been infected with tick fever, brought into the country by infected animals from Australia. The disease, known as babesiosis, can devastate cattle herds. Earlier this week Australia's Agriculture Minister Tony Burke said the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service had allowed the cattle to be exported to New Caledonia after being vaccinated against tick fever. New Caledonian import laws require cattle to be drenched rather than vaccinated, as innoculated cattle can still pass the disease onto ticks, which then transmit it to uninfected animals. It's not yet clear whether the New Caledonian government will launch an action seeking compensation from Australia.

No-confidence motion in Guadalcanal premierAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 08:44:36

The Premier of Solomon Islands' Guadalcanal Province, Joash Salani is facing a motion of no-confidence in his leadership. Deputy Premier Braddley Tovusia says he and five other executive members resigned on Tuesday, after the Premier refused to step down. Mr Tovusia claims that earlier, Premier Salani had agreed to resign, to allow the present provincial government to continue under a different leadership.

Close scrutiny of French Polynesia's local electionsAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 16:24:55

Initial results from the first round of local elections in French Polynesia are being closely watched, a month after the general elections, after which Gaston Flosse was elected president. Mr Flosse won the presidency due to an unexpected alliance in the Assembly between his pro-autonomy Tahoera'a Hueraatira, and the pro-independence party of Oscar Temaru. This was despite Gaston Tong Sang's pro-autonomy To Tatou Ai'a party winning the greatest individual share of general election votes. Two weeks ago, more than 8,000 people took to the streets in Papeete protesting the result of the presidential election. And all eyes are now on the local elections, with a second and final round due to take place this weekend.

Ok Tedi mine closed for third dayAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 16:25:56

944Papua New Guinea's largest gold and copper mine, Ok Tedi Mine, remains closed after nearly 300 mine workers walked off their jobs over a pay rise dispute. The decision to stop work on Tuesday is now affecting gold and copper production as the workers' strike continues for a third day.

Qarase regime court challenge continuesAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 16:27:17

838In Fiji, the trial by deposed prime minister Laisenia Qarase challenging his removal from office in the December 2006 coup continued today. Counsel on behalf of Mr Qarase told the three High Court judges, the President did not have the power to appoint Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama as Prime Minister. And lawyers representing the interim regime dismissed Mr Qarase's explanation why he took so long to initiate the action as "lame".

Legal action considered against Vanuatu PMAudio

Updated 13/03/2008 16:33:21

Vanuatu's opposition is considering legal action against Prime Minister Ham Lini, after the revelation he accepted a fraudulent offer of $US10 billion. Last month Mr Lini registered a complaint with police, over an international approach to invest the money, to assist in reducing carbon emissions on the Pacific Island Nation. An investigation found the offer was fraudulent, and one of the Prime Minister's advisors who organised it has been dismissed. But it's since emerged that before the investigation began, the Prime Minister signed a document accepting the offer without consulting members of his cabinet. Now one of the people involved in making the offer, Australian Trevor Pettett says, as Mr Lini has signed the deal, Mr Pettett and his associates consider it's been accepted by the Vanuatu government.

Faster HIV testing plannedAudio

Updated 12/03/2008 08:51:46

Testing for HIV/AIDS in Solomon Islands is likely to become a faster process in the next 12 months. The Solomon Islands Ministry of Health says plans are in place to have blood samples verified at the National Public Health Laboratory rather than sending samples to Australia for confirmation.

Draft $1.4 billion budget under scrutinyAudio

Updated 12/03/2008 08:52:41

The government of Solomon Islands has submitted a draft budget of $1.4 billion Solomon dollars to the Public Accounts Committee for scrutiny. The bipartisan parliamentary committee will consider the draft budget over the coming week before it is tabled in Parliament by the Finance Minister next week.

Tuna plant could reshape fisheries sector: MinisterAudio

Updated 12/03/2008 08:53:47

Papua New Guinea's government is in the process of creating a Pacific Marine Industrial Zone, in the tourism township of Madang. Within two years it is hoped the facility will process tuna caught in PNG waters and elsewhere in the Pacific. The industrial zone will cover 200 hectares at Kananam, along the North Coast of Madang, and will house up to 10 tuna processing factories, capable of creating more than 30,000 job opportunities.

Preparations underway for 'radiation exposure' court caseAudioTranscript

Updated 12/03/2008 08:56:54

The French Polynesian Nuclear Test Veteran Association is preparing to bring to court next month, the case of eight Polynesians who formerly worked on Moruroa nuclear sites. Of the eight men who worked on the sites in the 1960s, only three are still alive. They claim their group developed leukaemia due to exposure to radiation during nuclear tests carried out by the French government between 1960 and 1996.

Samoa's ruling party 'divided' over driving code proposal

Updated 12/03/2008 16:34:52

There were rare scenes in Samoa's Parliament today when three ruling party members spoke against the government proposal to switch the country's driving code from left to right hand drive. Members were debating the findings of a Parliamentary Committee, set up to consider two petitions objecting to the proposal. On Tuesday the committee rejected both petitions and tabled its findings.

Controversy over US human rights criticismAudioTranscript

Updated 12/03/2008 16:36:09

The United States State Department has strongly criticised Fiji in its latest annual assessment of human rights. The rebuke follows US Secretary of Stated Condoleezza Rice this week awarding the executive director of Fiji Womens Rights Movement, Virisila Buadromo, with an International Women of Courage Award. But Washington's disapproval of Fiji's interim government's record on human rights has been rejected out of hand by the head of the country's Human Rights Commission.

Qarase in court challenge of coup regimeAudio

Updated 12/03/2008 16:37:07

In Fiji, deposed prime minister Laisenia Qarase has spent most of the day in the High Court witness box. The case filed by Mr Qarase is to determine the legality or otherwise of the December 2006 coup. Under cross examination Mr Qarase was asked if he had asked Australia and New Zealand for military intervention.

Ticks from Australia infect New Caledonian cattle

Updated 12/03/2008 12:15:56

Australian cattle exported to the pacific island of New Caledonia have infected local cattle with tick fever. Canberra is blaming the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, or "Aquis", saying the outbreak is due to a certification error.

Solomons call to end aid dependency

Updated 11/03/2008 08:47:28

Solomon Islands Opposition Leader, Manasseh Sogavare says the country won't advance economically until it ends its reliance on foreign aid. Mr Sogavare says aid dependency has not taken the country anywhere almost 30 years on from independence. He says what Solomon Islands needs is an aggressive private sector-led approach, that can maximise benefits from the country's natural resources.

Psychotherapist blames politics for suicidesAudio

Updated 11/03/2008 08:48:30

A Fijian psychotherapist says there's been a sharp rise in the national suicide rate since the December 2006 coup.Selina Kuruleca says there were twice as many suicides and attempted suicides from January 1st to the end of February this year, as there were in the same period last year. But regional experts say suicide remains an ongoing problem in the Pacific, and that more factors are involved in the increase in Fiji than the coup.

Government back-tax probe labelled witch huntAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2008 16:26:29

A Niue opposition MP claims tax inspectors from New Zealand are trying to get back taxes from local businesses as part of a government attempt to cover its own financial shortfall. Terry Coe, a former Finance Minister, says Niue has only around a thousand citizens, few businesses, just one accountant, and he says cyclones have destroyed some businesses tax records. He claims the Niue government's attempts to get back-taxes dating back seven years by using two New Zealand inspectors could force some businesses to close.

Australian police to assist with Nauru fire investigationAudio

Updated 11/03/2008 16:26:29

Australian Federal Police have arrived in Nauru to help local officers investigate a fire at the main police station and prison. Nauru's Justice Minister Mathew Batsuia says so far no arrests have been made in relation to Friday evening's fire, which is believed to have been the result of arson. The fire broke out around 11pm last Friday, shortly after police dispersed a protest by around 30 people at Nauru's power station. Mr Batsuia says it's not clear if the two incidents were linked, but police are investigating them both.

Finance minister Chaudhry cleared of tax evasionAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2008 16:27:35

An inquiry in Fiji has cleared interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry of breaches of the Tax Act. Interim Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum released the report by the three-member panel, saying the inquiry into tax evading allegations against Mr Chaudhry "has been put to rest, and the matter is now closed". However, the inquiry findings have been criticised by ousted opposition leader Mick Beddoes, ousted prime minister Laisenia Qarase and former Labour Minister Kenneth Zinck. They say the terms of reference were too limited; they question the independence of the three panelists, and believe the findings clearing Mr Chaudhry were predictable.

Record profits for New Caledonian mining firmAudio

Updated 11/03/2008 12:13:38

SLNThe New Caledonian mining firm Societe Le Nickel has announced record profits in its nickel mine operations from last year. The $US642.5 million profit is a record for the company.

Christians celebrate Arrival of Evangel

Updated 10/03/2008 08:41:34

RAMembers of the Christian Protestant faith in French Polynesia have been celebrating the arrival of the Evangel. A large rally marking the festival was held in Papeetee by the Ma'ohi Protestant Church.

US announces major military cutback in Marshall Is

Updated 10/03/2008 08:41:45

The US is cutting back its operations at the Pacific missile testing range in the Marshall Islands. About $US6 million will be cut from the $US250 million annual budget this year. It is expected to lead to around seven per cent of the American and Marshall Islands workforce being cut.

Smoking ban could hurt Asian tourismAudio

Updated 10/03/2008 08:41:39

A proposed ban on smoking in public in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas is worrying the country's businessmen. A bill aimed at banning smoking in restaurants, bars and many workplaces has been introduced in the legislature by Representative Justo Quituga. But there are fears the move could harm the country's flourishing tourist industry,

Youth rally in Fiji wants answersAudio

Updated 10/03/2008 08:41:52

A leader of a youth rally being planned in Fiji, wants the interim government to use the gathering as an opportunity to explain itself to the young pople of the country. Spokesman for the Young People Concerned Network, Peter Waqavonovono says young indigenous Fijians want answers from the government on numerous issues. He says interim government ministers, chiefs and people in the judiciary have been invited to attend the "Gone E Taukei Youth Rally" in April.

Warmer Australian-Solomons relations after visitAudio

Updated 10/03/2008 08:42:09

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says relations between Australia and Solomon Islands are getting back on track. Mr Rudd was speaking during his stopover visit to Honiara at the weekend. Despite recent years of tumultuous relations between Canberra and Honiara, Mr Rudd was greeted warmly on arrival at Henderson International Airport. The warm reception was matched by the Australian prime minister bearing gifts of an $AA14.5million in aid funding under bilateral arrangements and the granting of fifth freedom rights to national carrier Solomon Airlines to fly between Vanuatu and Australia.

Conservationists warn forest carbon partnership could fail

Updated 10/03/2008 08:41:59

Conservationists have given a cautious welcome to the new forest-carbon partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea, signed by Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd and Sir Michael Somare last Thursday. Forests cover nearly two thirds of PNG's land area, and comprise one of the world's most important remaining rainforests. A key aim of the partnership is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from PNG that result from logging. The conservation group Greenpeace says the new partnership won't work unless unless it factors in illegal logging, industrial corruption, and the need to fund capacity-building in government.

Memorial Service for RAMSI's fallenAudio

Updated 10/03/2008 15:43:39

In Solomon Islands, a memorial service has been held by RAMSI commemorating the death of three of its members. The service was held today on the third anniversary of the death of Private Jamie Clark. The memorial service also commemorated Adam Dunning, a member of the Paticipating Police Force, and Tony Scriva, a civilian, all of whom died while in the service of RAMSI.

Violence in Nauru takes on political angleAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2008 15:45:09

A weekend of violence on the Pacific island nation of Nauru has left the country's main police station destroyed, and seen the country's main government offices nearly burnt down. The unrest has also taken on a political angle, which may bring an end to the country's current government, less than four months after it took power. Last Friday protestors, unhappy with pollution caused by the resumption of large-scale phosphate mining on Nauru, set fire to the police station, which also houses the country's jail. Residents living near where the mineral is processed and loaded are strongly opposed to the resumption of large-scale mining. Leading the protestors is former President Rene Harris. And next week a vote of no confidence in current President Marcus Stephen is expected in Nauru's parliament. Members of Mr Stephen's government have been difficult to contact for comment about the violence, or their political future.

Prime Minister Rudd trip to Pacific well receivedAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2008 15:46:10

Last week saw the first major engagement of Australia's recently elected Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, with his two closest Pacific neighbours. On Thursday and Friday Mr Rudd was in Papua New Guinea, and on Saturday he was in Solomon Islands. By all accounts his trip was a success, both for Australia, and for the two Pacific states, which rely in a number of ways on Australia for support.

NZ pushes Australia to accept migrant workers under FTAAudioTranscript

Updated 07/03/2008 09:43:34

New Zealand's Trade Minister Phil Goff has encouraged Australia to consider a migrant worker scheme, as a way of encouraging Pacific Island Nations to adopt a free trade agreement. Yesterday Mr Goff met with Australian Trade minister Simon Crean to discuss ways of speeding up the implementation of the "Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations", or PACER. The agreement was signed in 2001, and is supposted to come into effect in 2011. But some of the smaller nations in the region are worried it will only benefit New Zealand and Australia.

New car sales best everAudio

Updated 07/03/2008 09:44:45

Commonwealth of Northern Mariana's ailing economy has had life breathed into it with the sale of new cars up by 54 percent. The islands' three car dealerships sold 71 units last month, compared to 46 in February last year. The Commonwealth Automobile Dealers Association president Matthew Deets says he had to hit the books to find out when and if sales had ever been this good before.

High expectations of Australian PM visitAudio

Updated 07/03/2008 15:48:22

Expectations are high in Solomon Islands of the visit tomorrow of Australia's prime minister Kevin Rudd. Mr Rudd has received a warm reception in PNG, and it's being reported that he can expect the same warm welcome in Honiara.

Rudd gets warm welcome in PNG's GorokaAudio

Updated 07/03/2008 15:49:17

In PNG, Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd landed in Goroka this morning to a welcome usually reserved for royalty. Thousands of fans lined the streets before Mr Rudd commenced his official duties in Goroka.

Governor believes Pacific Islands Forum membership 'achievable'Audio

Updated 06/03/2008 08:45:24

The governor of Guam says he's confident the island will eventually join the Pacific Islands Forum. The Forum meets annually to discuss issues affecting the region but US Pacific Territories are not represented at the meetings. Governor Felix Camacho has just returned from Washington where he attended the US Inter-Agency Group on Insular Areas. The group heard renewed calls from US Pacific territories to become members of the Forum. Governor Camacho's executive assistant Shawn Gumataotao says it's a long and complicated process but the Governor is confident that it will become a reality.

Project to rebuild schoolsAudio

Updated 06/03/2008 08:45:24

Students in Solomon Islands will benefit from a new multi-million-dollar project to rebuild schools damaged by last year's tsunami. The Education Ministry is working with development agencies including NZ Aid, the European Union and UNICEF to get schools in Western and Choiseul Provinces re-opened. The project will also help replace lost books and equipment, and train teachers.

Australian government denies sports boycott rumoursAudioTranscript

Updated 06/03/2008 08:47:08

The Australian government has quickly moved to deny reports it wants an international boycott of Fijian sporting teams. The proposal was raised in an Australian newspaper on Wednesday, as a means of forcing Fij's interim Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama to hold elections early next year. But while the proposed boycott's been denied in Australia, it shows how closely sport is linked to politics.

Food price hikes may mean healthier livingAudio

Updated 06/03/2008 08:48:09

The rising price of imported and processed food in Fiji could lead to people growing more of their own food, which may ultimately improve their health. That's according to spokesmen for two leading civil society groups in the country, who've urged Fijians to abandon bread, butter and other processed foodstuffs in favour of locally grown substitutes.

Women 'poorly represented' in Pacific parliamentsAudioTranscript

Updated 06/03/2008 08:49:26

In the lead up to International Women's Day this weekend, governments across the Pacific are being urged to address the lack of women in their respective parliaments. Last week the Inter-Parliamentary Union revealed that Pacific countries have the world's lowest proportion of female representatives. Solomon Islands, Nauru and Tuvalu are among the 13 countries worldwide with NO women in Parliament. The others include Libya, Saudi Arabia and Burma.

Coconut growers win Body Shop oil contractAudio

Updated 06/03/2008 16:28:40

Samoan coconut growers have won a contract to supply organic coconut oil to the international skincare firm, The Body Shop. The deal between certified organic farmers and the British-based firm will see Samoan virgin coconut oil going into the company's bath and body product lines. More than three tonnes of the oil, which will be sold under the Fairtrade label, has already been sent to the United Kingdom.

Kingdom's aid to snow-hit China criticisedAudio

Updated 06/03/2008 16:30:07

One of the world's smallest countries has donated money to one of the biggest. Tonga has been thanked by the Chinese government for giving $US25,000 towards relief work after a heavy snow disaster which hit China last month. But the decision to send money from a small developing island states to a nation with one of the most powerful economies in the world has been criticised as wasteful by Tonga's pro-democracy movement.

More commercial flights bring airfares downAudio

Updated 06/03/2008 16:31:31

Commercial air services in Solomon Islands are breaking new ground in the number of flights and cheap airfares. Civil Aviation authorities say that by the end of March, some 18 commercial flights will be going in and out of the country a week. Solomon Islands had been one of the most expensive destinations to fly commercially to or from in the world, but airfares are finally becoming more competitive.

Australian, PNG prime ministers in fence-building talksAudioTranscript

Updated 06/03/2008 16:33:15

Australia's prime minister Kevin Rudd is meeting his PNG counterpart Sir Michael Somare in Port Moresby today, to begin discussions to repair the rift between the two countries. A cause of the rift was the downgrading of the multi-million dollar Enhanced Cooperation Program. Other items listed for discussion are climate change initiatives, the Kokoda Trail and a seasonal worker scheme.

Lawyers say Australia should pay riot damageAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:36

Lawyers for the Solomon Islands government say Australia must indemnify the Solomon Islands government for any possible costs Honiara may be liable for as a result of riots in 2006. This call was part of a submission from the attorney general's chambers delivered to the Commission of Inquiry investigating the Honiara riots.

Nuclear veterans launch class action against BritainAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:35

Veterans from Australia, New Zealand and Fiji who witnessed nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in the 1950's have joined a class action against the British government. More than 1,000 ex-servicemen from Britain and other Commonwealth states are seeking compensation for serious illnesses, including cancer from radiation exposure. But while there may be help for veterans born in the UK, the British government is ruling out compensation for those born elsewhere.

Security in PNG tightened ahead of Australian PM visitAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:36

Papua New Guinea Police have tightened up security in preparation for Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's official state visit which gets underway on Thursday. Mr Rudd's Pacific tour will take in PNG and Solomon Islands, and aims to strengthen ties between the three countries. The Australian leader will be accompanied by the Pacific Islands Affairs Secretary, Duncan Kerr and the Parliamentary secretary for International Development Bob McMullan.

Medical tests expanded for nuclear veteransAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:36

35,000 nuclear test veterans from Algeria and French Polynesia are to get access to more medical checkups from the French government. The increased access follows a decision by a French court last week, which ruled that a veteran with cancer could have his disease classified as an occupational illness. The man had worked on nuclear test sites in French Polynesia in the 1970s.

Huge LNG project announces contractorsAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:36

A massive gas processing project in Papua New Guinea has moved closer to reality, with the announcement of the successful companies which will be involved in the front-end engineering and design phase. The Liquid Niugini Gas project plans to invest around $US7 billion - around 19 billion kina - to build a two-train gas processing plant at Napa Napa, near Port Moresby. The project is backed by Merril Lynch Commodities, InterOil and Pacific LNG. This initial phase involves an investment of around $US100 million over the next year.

Kiribati seamen involved in drug traffikingAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 14:45:35

A firm that hires Kiribati seamen is concerned at the numbers being caught up in drug trafficking. The South Pacific Marine Service, based in Tarawa, says 19 Kiribati seamen have been jailed for drug offences over the past 13 years. Six are currently serving jail sentences in different parts of the world, including the United States and China.

Bainimara invited to Melanesian Spearhead Group SummitAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 17:02:24

Fiji's Interim Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama has been invited to the 17th Melanesian Spearhead Group Summit in Vanuatu next month. The Prime Ministers of the other MSG countries, PNG, Solomon Islands and the host Vanuatu, have already confirmed their attendance. But the Fiji interim government has yet to say whether Commodore Bainimarama will be coming.

Kokoda track to 'dominate' PNG talksAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 17:02:56

Kevin Rudd's first visit as Australian PM to the Papua New Guinea is likely to be dominated by the future of the Kokoda Track. Canberra wants the historic World War Two path heritage-listed to protect it against a proposed copper mine at the southern end of the track. But it's now emerged that the very stretch of path under threat from the mine might not part of the original Kokoda Track after all.

$US25 million new EU finance package for Wallis and FutunaAudio

Updated 05/03/2008 17:02:24

The European Union has said it will allocate $US25 million in new funding to the French Pacific territory of Wallis and Futuna over the next five years. The money's been provided under the European Development Fund.

PACIFIC: Large trade mission to NZAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 08:41:21

More than 150 Pacific-based businesses are sending delegations to a major trade expo in New Zealand. Pacific Islands are among New Zealand's biggest trading partners, with exports to the islands topping $US850 million a year. However, far fewer goods flow in the opposite direction, and the Pacific Trade Expo aims to redress that imbalance.

SOLOMON IS: Authorities urged to consider child rightsAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 08:42:05

There's growing concern in Solomon Islands on the rights of children, after a dramatic rise in the number of crimes being committed by young people. More than three quarters of the Solomons' population is made up of people aged under 29. Statistically this means more crimes are committed by young people. With more young people being tried by the judicial system, Honiara based NGO group, Save the Children has launched a campaign to educate the police on children's rights.

PNG: Shipping controversy heats upAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 08:43:31

Papua New Guinea's Maritime Union has called on Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare to have a ship certification company he allegedly owns shares in, deregistered. The Union claims the firm, Pacific Registry of Ships, doesn't carry out proper safety checks on ships and is putting passengers' lives and vessels at risk.

FIJI: Launch of International Year of the Coral ReefAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 08:44:04

The International Year of the Coral Reef was launched in Fiji this week. Part of a worldwide campaign to raise awareness about reefs and threats to their sustainability, the launch and its projects are designed to motivate people to take action to protect the fragile marine environments. While the launch has been celebrated as a step forward, some experts say they're only looking at a small part of what needs to be done.

MARSHALL IS: Election probe results releasedAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 16:06:13

The Pacific Islands Forum has released its report on the elections in Marshall Islands last year. It is nearly three months since the final result in the Marshalls' was declared, but the results are still being disputed, with at least four seats before the courts. The Forum's election report was written by the team of observers it sent to cover the vote. Overall they said the Pacific Island's nation's electoral system is sound, but made several recommendations to improve how elections are conducted.

FIJI: Qarase coup challenge beginsAudio

Updated 04/03/2008 16:06:54

In Fiji, the court case by deposed prime minister Laisenia Qarase challenging the legality of the December 2006 coup got underway today. However, lawyers for the interim government petitioned the court for an adjournment.

FIJI: Ambassador brings Chinese ethanol investorsAudio

Updated 03/03/2008 09:40:50

A group of Chinese investors is considering setting up a $US27 million plant to produce ethanol from cassava in Fiji. The Chinese entrepreneurs are currently in Fiji, hosted by Fiji's ambassador to China. But while those involved in the Fiji's fuel industry seem alternately excited or unfazed by the project, the public response has been more cautious.

PACIFIC: New program targets women's healthAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2008 09:41:56

A special program to guard women's health after conflicts or natural disasters is being introduced for East Asia and the South Pacific. The health effort is based on research that shows pregnancy and childbirth complications are the most common causes of death and disability among women force to flee their homes. A training program for Pacific agencies is to be conducted in Suva in July.

PNG: Defence force accused of helping rebelsAudio

Updated 03/03/2008 09:43:30

Papua New Guinea's Defence force is accused of transporting arms to help a rebel group on PNG's Autonomous Bougainville province. The defence force has denied the allegation that one of its aircraft was used to fight Me'ekamui rebels. The PNG defence force was allowed to return to Bougainville under a Peace agreement, following a decade of civil war which claimed thousands of lives.

PACIFIC: Economy, environment threaten states' survivalAudio

Updated 03/03/2008 09:43:12

An Australia defence expert says bleak economic and environmental prospects are threatening the political survival of many South Pacific states. Allan Behm was the head of the International Policy and Strategy Divisions of Australia's Defence Department and now works as an adviser on political and security risks. He says even the largest Pacific country, Papua New Guinea, faces a long slide towards being ungovernable, as a result of unmanageable politics and corruption. Mr Behm's prepared a paper for the Kokoda Foundation think-tank, looking at Australian security policy until 2050.

SOLOMON IS: Two women contest by-election

Updated 03/03/2008 09:42:48

In Solomon Islands two women are among 21 candidates contesting next month's bye-elections for two