Pacific Region News
Kiribati receives $6-M from EU
TARAWA, Kiribati—The government has received $6 million from the European Union to fund a rural electrification project for the outer islands.
The project will be implemented by the Kiribati Solar Energy Company to provide electricity to about 1,500 households and traditional meeting halls on the outer islands in the next five years.
The solar company has already successfully implemented a trial renewable energy-based rural electrification program on three outer islands, North Tarawa, Nonouti and Marakei.
Fiji planning to build second gold mine
SUVA, Fiji Islands—Construction of a second gold mine could begin by the end of this year in Tuvatu, west of the main island of Viti Levu.
Charles Barclay, chief operating officer of Emperor Mines Ltd., said the company is in the final phase of a feasibility study for a mine, which could employ at least 200 people.
Emperor operates a 70-year-old mine at Vatukoula in the north of Viti Levu, where output is expected to almost double over the next two years.
Greg Norman proposes golf course
ALOFI, Niue—Premier Sani Lakatani said Australian golfer Greg Norman and golf course architects John Darcy Associates have proposed building a $38 million golf resort on the island.
Lakatani said banks in Australia, New Zealand and the United States are backing the project, which could provide a crucial source of income for the island’s ailing economy.
Niue, the world’s largest coral island, has been struggling for economic and social survival after its population plunged from 5,000 to 1,700 in 20 years because of a lack of employment and investment.
Fiji denies prostitution claims
SUVA, Fiji Islands—The garment industry has denied claims that some workers who come to Fiji on work permits moonlight as prostitutes.
The issue arose after Law Reform Commissioner Anthony Gates was quoted as saying there is evidence some expatriates are prostitutes.
According to Gates, this evidence came out during public hearings in Nadi to discuss possible changes to the law on sexual offenses.
But a garment industry official said there is no way the industry would bring people into the country who are involved in criminal activities.
PNG hospitals braces for nurses strike
PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea—Hospitals throughout the country have developed contingency plans as they await word on the outcome of the final round of talks between nurses and the government to avert a threatened strike.
Most hospitals have reportedly arranged for a skeleton staff to attend only to emergency accidents and critically ill patients.
Other services will have to be closed temporary, hospital officials said.
Nurses have overwhelmingly voted to go on strike if the government fails to meet their demands for better pay and conditions.
