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PNG army will not use Force to remove Asylum Seekers

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DESPITE setting another deadline for the 379 refugees and asylum seekers at the Manus Island regional processing centre to leave yesterday or face forcible eviction, Manus police commander David Yapu says force will not be used to move them. “Force will not be used but voluntary removals will continue and the process is happening smoothly,” Mr Yapu said.

PNG authorities have moved into the centre yesterday and destroyed shelters’ and storage water tanks built by the refugees who are refusing to leave the decommissioned, Australian-run detention centre on Manus Island, but have avoided using force to forcibly evict anyone in their efforts to move people on.

“That’s a good approach, if those that really want to go to Lorengau than they obviously can go there but those that did not really want to go to Lorengau they can stay back in Lobrum awaiting this court and you can’t force anybody against his will and so they can’t be forced to go to the place where they don’t really want to go, so the approach that they are taking is good,” the refugees and asylum seekers lawyer Ben Lomai said.

Mr Lomai said that if the approach is humane like this one than the government is likely to get some solutions.

In a statement on Sunday, Immigration and Border Security Minister Petrus Thomas urged refugees and asylum seekers still in the processing centre they must leave by Monday “so that they can have access to basic necessities such as food, water, medical care and security and that the work on decommissioning of the facility can be completed for the PNG Defence Force to take complete control of their land and property”. Post Courier/Pacnews

PNG Kumuls team for RLWC Quarter Final against England

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The Papua New Guinea LNG Kumuls squad that will face England in the Rugby League World Cup Quarter Final has been named. Boas brothers will partner in the halves while Cronulla Sharks  James Jegeyaro will start at hooker.  Hunters forward Moses Meninga has been retained after impressive performance against the USA last week. He will play prop along side Luke page.

1 David Mead
2 Justin Olam
3 Kato Ottio
4 Nene Macdonald
5 Garry Lo
6 Ase Boas
7 Watson Boas
8 Moses Meninga
9 James Segeyaro
10 Luke Page
11 Rhyse Martin
12 Willie Minoga
13 Paul Aiton
Interchange

14 Kurt Baptiste
15 Stargroth Amean
16 Stanton Albert
17 Rod Griffin
Reserves

18 Enock Maki
19 Wartovo Puara
20 Thompson Teteh
21 Lachlan Lam

PM O'Neill does not set his salary conditions : Staff

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The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea  Peter O’Neill, does not set his salary conditions, says PM’s Chief-of-Staff, Edward Mike Jondi.
Mr Jondi made this statement today following a report published in The National Newspaper outlining the salary ranges of all the Ministers and Members of Parliament (MP) of which the Prime Minister tops the list.
The COS stressed that all pay for leaders are set by the Salaries and Remunerations Committee of which the Opposition Leader is a member. It is a bipartisan Committee.

“PM O’Neill does not set his salary conditions.
“The pay for a MP is not only for him/her but is shared with the communities for funeral, school fees, medical and so on, which is expected as part of the leader’s responsibility,” Mr Jondi said.
Mr Jondi said that the information taken from Salaries and Remunerations Commission Determinations of 2015 for Elected Leaders was published for public consumption; however, the paper should consult the Office of the Prime Minister to get a balance view before publishing the article.

PNG Explores Opportunities with Qatar for Co-operation and Investment in Oil and Gas, Agriculture and the Financial Sector

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The Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill , has welcomed the opening of discussions with the Qatar to initiate co-operation opportunities in the oil and gas sector, food production and processing and the financial sector.

Taking part in a two-day Official Visit to the State of Qatar, at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Qatar, the Prime Minister said now is the time to work with more partners in the global community to strengthen key sectors of the economy.

Meeting with Qatar’s Minister of Economy and Commerce, Ahmed Bin Jassim Bin Mohammed Al-Thani, in Doha last night, the Prime Minister said there are several opportunities that the two countries will pursue in the coming months.
"Qatar has an economy that shares several economic synergies with Papua New Guinea, particularly in the oil and gas sector,” PM O’Neill said from Doha.

"Over the past decade, they have built a leading presence in the LNG sector and works with several of the same companies as Papua New Guinea.
"While both of our countries are active in the market, there are opportunities to work together on technical issues, and there is the potential for investment.
“As our country prepares for the next LNG project, it is important for us to work with other countries and gain from their experience, as well as strengthen our collective positions.”
The Prime Minister said there is also interest in Qatar to be active in Papua New Guinea’s expanding agricultural sector.
“Strengthening domestic food security in Papua New Guinea, as well as expanding our export markets, is essential for our country.

“We have such enormous potential in our agricultural sector, but we cannot do this alone.
“We need to be proactive in attracting foreign investment, as well as strengthening our technical capacity and skill levels.
“Qatar has made substantial investments in several countries around the world and is looking at further expansion.

“We will maintain a dialogue with the Qatar Government and relevant agencies as we explore the potential for investment and technical co-operation.”
While in Doha, the Prime Minister also met with the Governor of the Central Bank of Qatar, Abdula Mohamad Al-Thani.
“As Qatar has expanded its oil and gas exports, it has also introduced a number of reforms in their financial sector, including enhancements in monetary and fiscal policy development.
“There are lessons to be gained from engagement between the banking sectors in our two countries. Our technical teams will now engage to consider options moving forward.”
Prime Minister O’Neill will meet with Qatar’s Prime Minister, Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani, in Doha on Tuesday, to further discuss opportunities for future engagement and investment.
Photos: PM O’Neill meeting with Qatar’s Minister of Economy and Commerce, Ahmed Bin Jassim Bin Mohammed Al-Thani, in Doha.

Fiji Bati - mania

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Before the Vodafone Fiji Bati arrived in drought stricken Townsville it rained and on Sunday, 15 minutes before the team landed in New Zealand, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Wellington.

Team media relations manager Petero Civoniceva said it could be a divine sign as the team prepares for a tougher match against New Zealand on Saturday in the Rugby League World Cup quarterfinals.

The Bati did not walk out of arrivals at the Wellington International Airport until after midnight, but it did not dampen the spirits of the many Fijian fans who waited to welcome the team.

"It was an awesome surprise for the team to see the Wellington community. It was pretty humbling and I know it meant a lot to the boys

"We are going to such a big game on Saturday, to know that there will be a lot of Fiji blue in the crowd, it is going to be pretty exciting.

"When we walk out there on Saturday night, we are not only going to do it for everyone in Fiji, but there's going to be a good crowd of Fijian supporters from Wellington to back us all the way.

"We have been blown away by the amount of support and hearing the interest and the support in Fiji makes us realise the great responsibility we have when we put on the white jersey. It's not just for the Fijians back home, but for the Fijians all over the world. They take every run with us, they take every tackle with us, they are there with us all the way."

Meanwhile, Vodafone Fiji Bati players have been promised monetary rewards if they progress and even if they win the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

FNRL chief executive officer Timoci Naleba said $200,000 had been set aside for the national squad if they win the title.

With 23 players and the team management, each member could pocket about $8000 if they return victorious and $100,000 if they finish second in the tournament.

Naleba said the incentive promise included the quarter-final against New Zealand on Saturday in Wellington.

"For the record, the players are getting $AU150 ($F236.37) commencing today because they have now qualified for the quarter-finals.

"The players got $AUD100 ($FJ157.58) for the pool matches from October 21. The players have been paid for the pool matches and once they qualified, we added some bonus to their daily allowance and if they qualify for the semi-finals, they will get $AU200 ($FJ315.16) per day. -

"There are payouts from the world cup and the sponsors.

"Those money go to the players, according to the agreed percentage. The incentives for the players, if they qualify to play in the semi-finals, a certain percentage of what Vodafone is going to give us is $100,000(US$50,000).

"If they win the final, the players will get certain percentage of the $200,000(US$100,000) which the Vodafone has promised to give us and is in the contact."

Naleba returned home last weekend after watching Fiji's pool matches against USA, Wales and Italy in Australia.

"Team spirit is very high and it is important for us to keep the boys' spirit in good shape. Potter has done a great job with Joe Rabele.

"We anticipated a tough match against Italy and the boys came through. We will have a great game against New Zealand on Saturday."

The Fiji Bati will play New Zealand at 7.30pm on Saturday in Wellington.


SOURCE: FIJI TIMES/PACNEWS

New Crowne Plaza will be Fiji's largest hotel

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Fiji may be a small island nation, but it's about to get a big island resort, according to InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), which has announced plans to build a new Crowne Plaza hotel on Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji's archipelago.

The property -- Crowne Plaza Fiji Wailoaloa Beach -- is scheduled to open in 2020 and will be Fiji's largest hotel, according to IHG.

“As the most popular travel destination in the South Pacific, the islands of Fiji accounts for close to 40 percent of travel to the South Pacific, a figure that continues to grow annually. In 2017 alone, Fiji recorded an increase of 7.8 percent in the number of international travelers visiting the country. This strong growth potential represents a key opportunity for us to introduce the Crowne Plaza brand to Fiji,” said IHG Chief Development Officer for Asia, Middle East, and Africa Rajit Sukumaran.

Located just 10 minutes from Fiji's main airport, Nadi International Airport, Crowne Plaza Fiji Wailoaloa Beach will have 453 guest rooms; five restaurant and bar options, including a pool bar and a beach club; a 24-hour fitness centre; two swimming pools; and what IHG promises will be "one of the largest conference centres in Fiji," although the company has not yet announced its size.

“As the first resort in Fiji for the brand, Crowne Plaza Fiji Wailoaloa Beach complements IHG's existing portfolio of brands in the South Pacific, allowing us to better meet the different needs of travelers visiting Fiji,” Sukumaran continued.

“Guests can look forward to a truly immersive travel experience with the Crowne Plaza Fiji Wailoaloa Beach, with such vast, pristine natural beauty that Wailoaloa offers. With panoramic ocean views, we invite guests to take in the exquisite wonders of the island from the comfort of the resort, whether in their rooms or in and around the resort.”.

SOURCE: TRAVEL NEWS/PACNEWS

Qatar’s Broadening Economic Base Offers Opportunities for PNG

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The Prime Minister . Peter O’Neill  has concluded a series of high level meetings with Government Officials in the State of Qatar, from which he anticipates will come greater technical co-operation and investment from a country that has transitioned into the LNG market as is the current experience of Papua New Guinea.


Following meetings with Qatar’s Prime Minister, Finance Minister and other senior Government Officials, while on his return from the APEC Summit in Viet Nam, Prime Minister O’Neill said the key outcome of the visit is a further demonstration of the urgent need for Papua New Guinea to properly diversify the Nation’s economic base.
“We have been talking about diversifying our economy to maximise gains for some time, and now is the time to act so we can build our key sectors into the future,” the Prime Minister said at the meetings in Doha.

“There is great potential for creating thousands of new jobs, establishing new skills and stimulating small business.
"From humble beginnings, Qatar has diversified its economic base better than most resource-focused economies around the world.
"While oil and gas remain the cornerstone of its economy, Qatar has made inroads into downstream processing and other energy related fields.
"Qatar has also leveraged its resources boom to expand the tourism sector, and made substantial investment in agriculture around the world.
“The perspective from our engagement in Qatar is clear, that we have to not only get the most from expanding our LNG production, but we have to utilise these gains to diversify production and jobs in our economy.”

The Prime Minister said following the visit this week, a delegation from Kumul Consolidated Holdings, as well as other Government agencies and private sector representatives, will meet with officials in Qatar.
“The Qatar Prime Minister and I have agreed that we will bring together a joint forum to look at capacity building and investment opportunities between Papua New Guinea and Qatar.
“As an emerging economy, Papua New Guinea must take advantage of new opportunities to expand the economy. Importantly we must move beyond the boom-and-bust cycles that comes with dependency on global energy prices.
“In doing so we will draw on the experience and capacity building opportunities from countries like Qatar, and our other partners around the world.

“I look forward to tangible outcomes from the discussions that have taken place over the past two days, and delivering additional policy initiatives to work with the private sector.
"I thank the Prime Minister of Qatar, Ahmed Bin Jassim Bin Mohammed Al-Thani, for his invitation for Papua New Guinea to undertake an Official Visit to his country."
Photo: Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, meeting with Qatar Prime Minister, Ahmed Bin Jassim Bin Mohammed Al-Thani, meeting in Doha on Tuesday.

PNG Kumuls v England RLWC Quarter Final Preview

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England hooker Josh Hodgson and PNG hooker James Segeyaro
 will be key men for their teams on Sunday afternoon.
Credit: Gregg Porteous; David Buller. Copyright: NRL Photos.
England face an undefeated PNG side who venture outside Port Moresby for the first time in this World Cup.

Wayne Bennett's side has shown patches of what they are capable of without yet putting in an eighty-minute performance, with victories over France (36-6) and Lebanon (29-10). The Kumuls come to Melbourne after accounting for Wales, Ireland and the USA by a combined 128-12.

The English get Sam Burgess back who returns from a knee injury and will start in the second row, with Ryan Hall and Kallum Watkins replacing Stefan Ratchford and Mark Percival in the backline. Gareth Widdop retains his spot at fullback, while Kevin Brown and Luke Gale remain in the halves. Elliott Whitehead comes back into the back row and Josh Hodgson starts in place of James Roby who drops to the bench.

PNG coach Michael Marum has made minimal changes. Ase Boas comes in for Lachlan Lam at five-eighth, while Stanton Albert and Rod Griffin are on the bench for Nixon Putt and Enock Maki respectively.

Why England can win: They've started well in all three games so far and, apart from their opener Australia, have overcome their opponents through an influx of first-half points. Their defence has also held up against the best – the Kangaroos could only manage three tries – and Bennett will have them primed for a better performance coming into the knockout rounds.

Why PNG can win: The Kumuls are riding the wave of their success in the pool stages. Skipper David Mead has led the way with four tries this tournament and will be keen to add to his tally on Sunday. Many of these players have been together for a long time when you factor in the PNG Hunters' success in the Queensland Cup and coach Michael Marum has got them playing for each other.

The History: Played 2; England 2; PNG 0. England has had the better of the Kumuls in their two previous clashes, though the Pacific nation went close in the 2008 World Cup where England left it late to win 32-22.

Match officials: Referee: James Child; Touch judges: Mark Craven and Chris Butler; Video referee: Steve Chiddy.

Televised: Channel Seven – live from 3:30pm AEDT.

NRL.com predicts: England's game management and the class in their spine should be too much for PNG. The latter has been impressive, and they need to keep their error count to a minimum if they are to challenge Sean O'Loughlin and his troops. England by 10.

England v Papua New Guinea
Melbourne Rectangular Stadium
Sunday 4pm AEDT
Source: NRL.COM

More than 47,000 living with HIV in PNG, official says

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 More than 47,000 Papua New Guineans are living with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) with Enga being the highest HIV prevalence province.

National Aids Council Secretariat (NACS) regional manager Valentine Tangoh told a workshop on gender equity and social inclusion in Port Moresby that the spread of HIV still outpaced responses taken in the country despite some progress being made.

“National HIV prevalence is estimated at 0.89 per cent among adults (15-49-year-olds). That’s the highest among Pacific nations,” Tangoh said.

He said for last year and this year, it was estimated that there are 47,795 people living with HIV in PNG.

“Of these, 2800 are estimated to be new infections for this year alone, one quarter of them are children and young people.New born babies account for 16 per cent of new infections annually.

“These are data shown by people who went to the hospitals or in voluntary counselling centres getting tested on their HIV status.

“However, there are many people in the country who don’t go to test and know of their HIV status and so the figure might increase,” Tangoh said.

He said the pandemic was concentrated in certain geographical locations within key population groups.

“HIV prevalence of one per cent or more is recorded in the Highlands provinces and Enga is the highest with 1.77 per cent, National Capital District with 1.64 per cent, followed by Jiwaka with 1.49 per cent, Western Highlands with 1.32 per cent, Western with 1.23 per cent, Eastern Highlands with 1.0 per cent, Chimbu with 0.9 per cent, Oro, Manus and Central with 0.7 per cent, Madang with 0.6 per cent and the other provinces showing a much lower prevalence.”

He said HIV prevalence in 2014 was 0.7 per cent with the total number of people living with HIV estimated to be 37,000 but HIV prevalence has increased to 0.89 in 2016 and 2017 with a total of 47,795 people estimated to be living with the virus.

Of the 47,795 people living with HIV, only 52 per cent or 23,800 are on antiretroviral therapy (ART).

“The rest are not receiving any treatment and that is a major concern.

“Major fluctuations in government budget allocations are a real issue that contributes to this high prevalence.”

Tangho said further that HIV/Aids was a developmental issue and must be addressed across all sectors.

“HIV should still be seen as a huge threat to Papua New Guineas’ national security and stability and economic growth.

“This is the fact that we as a country cannot deny.

“We need response from all sectors of the community and that can only be realised by integrating the aspects of HIV into policy documents.”

Tangoh said integrating HIV issues into the Medium Term Development Strategy was timely and could reach out to all government agencies and organisations, political leaders, the private sector, non-governmental organisations and communities.

“We must strengthen partnerships and integration with and between government agencies, political leaders, government workers and teachers to take ownership of HIV in the workplace and teach the students.

“We seriously need committed government funding through the annual budgetary allocations and provincial administrators must take HIV issues seriously into their annual plans and their five-year development plans.”.... PACNEWS


SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS

BSP Launch VISA Debit Card with Added Security

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Bank South Pacific (BSP) launched the new BSP chip enabled Visa Debit Cards on Thursday 9th of November, 2017 at its BSP First Lounge at the Ravalien Haus, Port Moresby.

This new enhancement has been implemented, to counter and protect customers and the bank against security breaches and counterfeit card fraud.

BSP CEO, Mr Robin Fleming was present at the launch and gave a product background saying, "Most major card issuers around the world have migrated to this new technology to protect consumers and reduce the costs of fraud and BSP proud to migrate into this new technology."

These chips are known as EMV chips. EMV - which stands for Europay, Mastercard and Visa - is a global standard for cards equipped with computer chips and the technology used to authenticate chip-card transactions.

Earlier, Mr Fleming also announced at the BSP Quarter 3 Financial Presentations at Ravalien Haus, Port Moresby that, "these new and improved cards are being deployed to improve payment security, making it more difficult for fraudsters to counterfeit cards. It's used worldwide and is an important step forward for BSP."

Present at the Launch on Thursday night was BSP Brand Ambassador and Captain of the PNG Kumuls, David Mead who also applied for a New Visa Debit Card.

A Step forward for BSP with EMV chip enabled card

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In the next few weeks, BSP Visa Debit card users will be issued cards that come equipped with chips on them.
IMG_1859
These chips are known as EMV chips. EMV - which stands for Europay, Mastercard and Visa -- is a global standard for cards equipped with computer chips and the technology used to authenticate chip-card transactions.  This new enhancement will be implemented, to counter and protect customers and the bank against security breaches and counterfeit card fraud. Most major card issuers around the world have migrated to this new technology to protect consumers and reduce the costs of fraud and BSP will also be migrating into this new technology.

"These new and improved cards are being deployed to improve payment security, making it more difficult for fraudsters to counterfeit cards," said Robin Fleming, BSP Group CEO.  "It's used worldwide and is an important step forward for BSP." This was announced on Thursday at the Quarter 3 Financial Presentations at BSP Haus, Port Moresby.

EMV-enabled cards offer several benefits over the current magnetic-stripe cards. The chip cards will have a small, metallic square you will see on new BSP Visa Debit Cards. That is a computer chip, and it is what sets it apart from the rest of the cards.

"The magnetic stripes on cards store unchanging data. Whoever accesses that data gains the sensitive card and cardholder information necessary to make purchases. That makes traditional cards prime targets for counterfeiters, who convert stolen card data to cash," explains Rebecca Senge, BSP's Head of Product Development.

"If someone copies a mag stripe, they can easily replicate that data over and over again because it doesn't change. Unlike magnetic-stripe cards, every time an EMV card is used for payment, the card chip creates a unique transaction code that can only be used once," added Ms Senge.

"If a hacker stole the chip information from one specific point of sale, typical card duplication would never work because the stolen transaction number created in that instance cannot be used again and so the card would just get denied, " she further added.

For many countries in the world, fraudsters have shied away from countries that have already transitioned to EMV cards, however, this has increased exposure for card users and issuers in countries like Papua New Guinea who still use the magnetic stripe cards," said Mr Fleming.

"With the introduction to the new BSP chip enabled Visa Debit Cards, it adds an added security level that matches world class standards," said Mr Fleming.

For merchants and financial institutions, the switch to EMV means adding new in-store technology, internal processing systems, and complying with new liability rules. For consumers, it means learning a new payment process.

The chip enabled cards will be issued to BSP Visa Debit Card users. For more information, call the BSP Customer Service Centre on 320 1212/7030 1212 or Email: servicebsp@bsp.com.pg.

PNG Orchids v England Women's RLWC Match live updates

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The Papua New Guinea Orchids will take on England in the Women' Rugby League World Cup match today at 6 : 00 PM. Follow the live updated below. Refresh (reload) the page every time to see the latest updates on this match.



Live Updates :  Second Half underway

Full time: England 36 PNG  8 
78 mins : Try England 36  PNG 8
73 Mins: Try England 30 PNG 8. Boot Scores for England
70 mins: Still England 24 PNG 8
65 mins: England 18 PNG 8 : Try for PNG but Referee rules knock on.No try

60 mins: TRY England: 24 PNG 8 : Danielle Bound scores for England
55 mins: The score still remain at England 18 PNG 8 : Orchids attacking now

50 mins : Still England 18 PNG 8 : A brilliant try-saving tackle from PNG's  Martha Karl denies Tara-Jane Stanley from grabbing another try for England

45 mins: England 18 PNG 8 : Good news for PNG, fullback Amelia Kuk is back out there after leaving the field in the first half.
41 min: Second Half underway


HALF- TIME : ENGLAND 18   PNG 8
38 mins : Try England: 18 PNG 8: This time it's left winger Charlotte Booth who dives over in the corner.
35 mins: Try England: 14 PNG 8 : Winger Tara-Jane Stanley goes over untouched in the corner.
30 mins: PNG's Amelia Cuk attacks the tryline again but the England defence forces a mistake, and the PNG fullback looks to have been hurt in the process

27 mins : Try England: 10 PNG 8.  Amy Hardcastle busts a tackle and bursts into the clear, and races 70m to score a terrific TRY for England
25 mins : TRY PNG Orchids: 8  England:  6  Anne Oiufa scores  and Amelia Kuk kick is ugly off the boot, and a wicked bounce evades everyone
20 mins :  PNG's Amelia Kuk then continues her hot start to the match with a break that almost results in a try, but she just can't beat the last tackle

11 mins : England Try :  Shona Hoyle, converted by Tara-Jane Stanley. PNG 4-6 ENG
10 mins: Solid defence from PNG held out England Try opportunity
6 mins: PNG TRY! Naomi Kaupa. Conversion missed by Amelia Kuk. PNG 4-0  ENG


In Earlier Matches.

-Defending Champions, Australia outclassed Cook Islands  58 - 4
- New Zealand kicked off the action with a thumping 50-4 win over Canada.

Lupari says Religious Education must be a compulsory subject in PNG's Education System

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Religious Education should be a compulsory subject in the school system, says the Chief Secretary to Government, Ambassador Isaac Lupari.
Chief Secretary Amb Lupari said that Government must seriously consider introducing Religious Education as a compulsory subject in our education system.
Amb Lupari made this statement when addressing the Heads of Gov’t Agencies at a recent Departmental Heads meeting in Port Moresby.

“If we are going to address law & order, social ills, decline in ethical standard, decline in morality, increase in domestic drug abuse and so forth, in a serious manner, we must introduce Religious Education as a compulsory subject in our school system.
“What we are doing today, will not address the root cause of these social problems in the country.
“The root causes are lack of discipline and respect for our culture and respect for our laws.
“How do we address these causes? 

“Religious Education is one of the only viable solutions,” said Amb Lupari.
“We are a Christian country and Christianity is defined in our Constitution.
“Yet this is not translated or embraced in our education and work place systems.”
If we introduce or make Religious Education as a compulsory subject such as science and maths, we will produce educated population based on discipline, respect, integrity and value for each other, he said.
“The impact on our society will be positive. We will have lesser social ills, law & order problems and more importantly increase in economic prosperity.
“I am really happy that the Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has seen the merits of Religious Education and directed us to work together with all stakeholders to develop the Religious Education program.
“The tentative plan is to install the Religious Education as core subject in our school system from grade one to grade 12 commencing 2019.
“I will be working closely with all relevant stakeholders including departments of Education, Community Development & Religion and Higher Education to give priority to this policy agenda,” the Chief Secretary said.
Amb Lupari said look at the experiences of other countries around the world when they institutionalized Religious Education into their education system and work place.
They have a disciplined population, self-respect for one and other, integrity, and respect for laws, peace and harmony in their communities.
“As a result, they have witnessed high economic growth, social order, law & order and improvement on the quality of lives of the people.
“PNG will achieve the same results if we adopt the Religious Education as a compulsory subject.
I encourage all my colleagues and other stakeholders to develop this policy and have Religious Education become a core subject in our education system.
“Let's all work together to develop this policy and hence it is implemented in our school system by 2019,” he said.

Tongan election seals Pohiva dominance

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All nine cabinet ministers of Tonga's caretaker Government were re-elected in Tonga's snap General Election Thursday.

Akilisi Pohiva's Democratic Party won 14 out of the 17 seats.

The successful candidates were announced by the Electoral Commissioner, Pita Vuki last night.

The re-elected cabinet ministers are caretaker Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva, Semisi Sika, Mateni Tapueluelu, Poasi Tei, Vuna Fa'otusia, Semisi Fakahau, Penisimani fifita, Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa and Saia Piukala.

Two former cabinet ministers, Siaosi Sovaleni and Tevita Lavemaau who were fired by the Prime Minister from his Cabinet following the dissolution of parliament on 24 August were re-elected by their constituencies. Vava'u female People's Rep, ‘Akosita Lavulavu was also re-elected.

There will now be two female People's Representatives in parliament: newly-elected People's Rep Losaline Ma'asi and re-elected People's Rep ‘Akosita Lavulavu.

The only three new People's Representatives who were elected in today's election were Losaline Ma'asi, Mo'ale Finau from the Ha'apai Constituency No. 12 and Vatau Hui from Constituency No. 17.

Former CEO for the Ministry of Agriculture, Losaline Ma’asi, snatched away the seat of former Minister of Finance, 'Aisake Eke from Tongatapu Constituent No. 5.

The 17 People’s Representatives are:
Tongatapu 1, Samuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva, 1376 votes
Tongatapu 2, Semisi Sika, 1111 votes
Tongatapu 3, Siaosi Sovaleni, 1421
Tongatapu 4, Mateni Tapueluelu, 1436
Tongatapu 5, Losaline Ma’asi, 1034
Tongatapu 6, Poasi Tei, 1426
Tongatapu 7, Sione Vuna Fa’otusia,1274
Tongatapu 8, Semisi Fakahau, 1183
Tongatapu 9, Penisimani Fifita, 1302
Tongatapu 10, Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa, 1631
‘Eua 11, Tevita Lavemaau, 790
Ha’apai 12, Mo’ale Finau, 635
Ha’apai 13, Veivosa Taka, 905
Vava’u 14, Saia Piukala, 1366
Vava’u 15, Samiu Vaipulu, 684
Vava’u 16, 'Akosita Lavulavu, 921
Ongo Niua 17, Vatau Hui, 438 votes

Noble’s Representatives elected include:

Tongatapu
1. Lord Tu’ivakano
2. Lord Ma’afu
3. Lord Vaha’i

Vava’u
1. Lord Tu’ilakepa
2. Lord Tu’i’afitu

Ha’apai
1. Lord Tui’ha’angana
2. Lord Fakafanua

‘Eua
1.Lord Nuku
1. Lord Fusitu'a

A total of 86 candidates contest the election, including 15 women, for 17 open seats.

Meanwhile, a publisher and political commentator says 'Akilisi Pohiva is the big winner of Tonga's election on Thursday.

Kalafi Moala said it was a remarkable and unexpected feat, given the Pohiva administration's tenure was cut short by the August dissolution of Parliament.

The King called the snap election over concerns about the government's conduct.

Moala said despite this Pohiva's brand remains strong.

“He has declined in terms of numbers but he's still the most dominant politician that's influenced politics in Tonga,” he said.

The public has not listened to the accusations surrounding the conduct of 'Akilisi Pohiva and the last government according to Moala.

There were claims the government had acted unconstitutionally by signing international agreements without the King's approval.

The dissolution was the end of a term full of controversy, including the late withdrawal from hosting the 2019 Pacific Games, and the development of a heritage site.

But  Moala said that didn't seem to matter.

“Even the fact that there have been the proclamations everywhere during this campaign that this is the most scandalous government that's ever been in Tonga, obviously nobody listened to that.”

“It's quite interesting. It was like teflon, it just comes out and it hits people and it falls off,” he said.

Seven of the nine seats set aside for Nobles were returned to the incumbents, Lord Vaha'i and Lord Fakafanua two changes in Tongatapu and Ha'apai respectively.

Meanwhile, one of 14 Democratic Party candidates to win a seat in Thursday's election in Tonga said the result shows the people did not agree with the dissolution of Parliament.

Pohiva Tu'ionetoa, a cabinet minister in the last government, said the people have made a statement.

“Although the House has been dissolved, they do make a strong statement that the people want the democracy to progress. The people state that the dissolution of Parliament was not the proper way to progress in democracy in this country,” Tu'ionetoa said.

SOURCE: RNZI/WIRES/PACNEWS

Australia's allies push for faster end to coal

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Some of Australia's closest allies are pushing for an end to coal power, in an increase of pressure for richer countries to do more to curb climate change.

While one of our neighbours says it seems only a change of governments will make Australia end its coal obsession.

New Zealand, the UK and Canada are among 20 countries which have signed up to the Global Alliance for Powering Past Coal, a surprise addition to the COP23 UN climate conference in Bonn, Germany on Thursday.

The group hopes to double in size over the next year.

UK's conservative Climate Change Minister Claire Perry said reducing global coal consumption should be an urgent priority for all countries.

“Unabated coal is the dirtiest, most polluting way of generating electricity,” she told the launch.

“The Powering Past Coal Alliance will signal to the world that the time of coal has passed.”

The alliance covers developed and developing countries, including some of Australia's Pacific island neighbours who are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change: COP23 president Fiji, the Marshall Islands, and Niue.

The Marshall Islands labelled coal the biggest barrier to curbing rising temperatures.

At an earlier event, President Hilda Heine said the country was very disappointed in Australia's continued pursuit of coal mining and energy.

“We're neighbours with them; they should be aware of the issues that are facing small island countries,” she said.

“We hope that maybe a new government can come in and change the position of the current government, which is to continue to promote coal.”

Greens MP Adam Bandt said the Turnbull government seemed to be getting Australia caught in a pincer movement and it was "posing an existential threat to many of our neighbours".

He hoped the new alliance would prove coal shouldn't be subject to a culture war.

“You've now got conservative ministers, social democratic ministers and green ministers sitting side by side committing their countries to phasing out coal,” he told AAP in Bonn.

“Each will do it in their own different way but that commitment suggests it's now crossing party lines.

“A door has been opened for the Australian government here."

Asked what Australia thought of the new alliance and whether it had been invited to join, Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg cited Bloomberg's 2017 energy outlook predicting coal would remain the bedrock of Asia's power supply, accounting for about a third of electricity in 2040.

The government's new energy policy is expected to lead to coal and gas combined making up nearly two-thirds of Australia's power generation by 2030.

At the moment, coal alone generates about three-quarters of Australian power.

“The Turnbull government's national energy guarantee is technology neutral and will deliver the right mix of thermal and renewable generation to deliver an affordable and reliable energy system as we transition to a lower emissions future,” Frydenberg told AAP.

The new alliance comprises Angola, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Costa Rica, Denmark, El Salvador, Fiji, Finland, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Marshall Islands, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niue, Portugal, Switzerland, and the UK, plus five Canadian provinces and two US states.

SOURCE: AAP/PACNEWS


Fiji Bati boosted with funding

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THE Vodafone Fiji Bati campaign at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Australia has been further boosted with a $129,000 funding from the Government through the Fiji National Sports Commission.

This was revealed by the Fiji National Rugby League after the first payment under the grant was received yesterday from the Commission's executive chairman, Peter Mazey.

FNRL chairman Filimoni Vosarogo said the grant would go towards the payment of players' weekly allowances as agreed to by the FNRL and the Fiji Bati players and management.

"Rugby League World Cup Ltd pays each player $AUD30 ($FJ47 —— conversion according to yesterday's international exchange rate) per day on a weekly basis during the RLWC tournament," Vosarogo said.

"Contrary to international media report, it is not the National Rugby League (NRL) that tops up the Fiji Bati players' allowances by an extra $AUD70 ($FJ 109.65), but it is the FNRL through commercial sponsors and the Fijian Government grant through the Fiji National Sports Commission that does the extra payment to make it a $AUD100 ($FJ156.60) per day payment to each of our players and staff."

He said after the team qualified for the quarter-finals, the players' allowances had increased to $AUD150 ($FJ235).

"RLWC Ltd still pays the players $AUD30 and FNRL pays the remaining $AUD120 ($FJ187.83). It is something that is intended to take care of players' welfare in camp and helps with families to an extent.

"They are performing well for the country and we are all pleased to have the Fiji National Sports Commission extend funds to ensure that our Bati are getting some form of allowance at this critical time of the tournament.

"FNRL acknowledges the support of Vodafone Fiji Ltd, Fiji National Sports Commission, Pacific Energy, Asco Motors Ltd, FIJI Water, The Fiji Times and apparel sponsor, BLK, for their continued support to our Fiji Bati team in this RLWC tournament."

The Kevin Naiqama-led side is in Wellington, New Zealand, preparing to play the Kiwis at the Wellington Regional Stadium.

"We look forward to seeing the Cake Tin painted blue this Saturday. We are urging all Fijians, here and abroad, those who are able to travel to Wellington to do so and support the Bati play World Cup co-hosts NZ in their Capital City.

"The boys need your prayers, they need your support and they definitely need you to cheer them on this Saturday, whether it will be in front of a TV screen or at the stadium, let's come together and support our warriors defend," he said.

Meanwhile, Vosarogo revealed that FNRL chief executive officer Timoci Naleba has been asked to go on leave citing operational matters at the FNRL headquarters.

"He has been asked to take his leave accrued. He has leave days to take," he said..

....Fiji Times

Tonga boilover has Samoa believing they can eliminate Australia

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Prop Sam Tagataese says Tonga's landmark victory over New Zealand on Saturday has given Samoa the belief they can cause the upset of the century by eliminating holders Australia from the World Cup this Friday.

The first quarter final, at Darwin's TIO Stadium, is regarded as little more than a formality with the Australians having only conceded 10 points for the entire tournament while Toa Samoa are yet to win a game.

But Cronulla's Tagataese said tier two nations no longer saw the big three of Australia, England and New Zealand as unbeatable.

"It grows confidence and encourages a lot of the other players around Australia and New Zealand – Pacific boys – to strive and play for their countries or their parents' country of birth," the 30-year-old said.

"I thought it was great that Tonga won. Hopefully they do well and hopefully we can do something special too against the Aussies on Friday."

Another Samoan, Josh Papalii, said while his team did not watch the Hamilton epic live on TV, there was jubilation when the result came through.

"Hearing that result, the boys were pretty buzzed up about that," said Papalii.

"Finding out we had Australia on Friday, we were definitely keen to have a good game on Friday and hopefully win."

According to Samoa's assistant coach Sean Long, the secret to an upset is not trick shots or surprising the champions with left-field tactics.

"I think quite a few teams have probably tried that in the past," Long said after a crocodile 'chose' Samoa as winners by snaffling a pork chop hanging from their logo over one dangling from the Australia coat of arms.

"We've just got to go out there and start enjoying it a little bit more. I think there's been a lot of lads getting a bit frustrated it's not been going the right way for us.

"We need to go out there and start enjoying the footy again.

"That gets you in a good place. As long as they're working hard for each other, that's the battle really."

Tagataese added: "If you look at all our games, it's just completions. We're probably last in completions, can't really hold onto the ball.

"Whatever team you're playing for, how good you are, if you're completing at 30 per cent, you can't win a game."


SOURCE: SMH/PACNEWS

As climate disasters surge, world puzzles over who will pay

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After a year when powerful hurricanes, floods, droughts and fires have racked up hundreds of billions of dollars in damage in countries from the United States to Bangladesh, you might think their leaders would be looking desperately to the U.N. climate talks for new ways to cover those costs.

You’d be wrong - at least when it comes to the richer countries and the formal process that aims to do that.

A mechanism aimed at putting in place ways to help poor countries hit by growing “loss and damage” from climate change to foot the rising bill was first agreed by rich and poor nations at the U.N. climate talks in Warsaw in 2013.

Its backers have suggested a range of innovative ideas to raise cash – from a tiny tax on each stock trade and other financial transactions, to a levy on airplane flights. But richer countries, so far, have blocked action in moving ahead on any of them at the conference this week in Bonn, hosted by Fiji.

“There was hope the Fiji (meeting) would be more willing to move forward” given the scale of the potential losses low-lying Pacific islands face from storms and sea level rise, said Sven Harmeling, CARE International’s climate change advocacy coordinator.

But “there’s no real move to discuss the financial instruments we need,” he said. “They’re not even willing to start the discussion.”

Instead, so far, countries are looking to a single solution to fill the gap: insurance policies.

Insurance can – and is – helping poor countries and communities lower their risks from climate disasters. But it cannot work in every situation, experts say.

Slow-moving crises, such as sea level rise, are nearly impossible to insure. Insurance payouts can provide effective help for big, sudden disasters – a powerful hurricane or flood – but aren’t so effective at helping out with the increasing drumbeat of smaller but accumulating everyday losses.

And what happens when disasters come so frequently, and at such cost, that they are no longer insurable? That’s a worry, experts working on loss and damage issues say.

“These disasters are eroding whatever development gains we’ve made,” said Harjeet Singh, who leads climate policy work for aid agency ActionAid. “People can’t stay safe. Before they cope with one disaster, another one hits them harder.”

And that’s not just in poor countries, he said. Even the United States this year has been slammed by hurricane damage, flooding and runaway forest fires. The costs of Hurricane Harvey alone could reach as much as $190 billion, U.S. agencies estimate.

“Loss and damage will not be limited to developing countries,” Singh said. New ways of dealing with losses, including taxes, “are needed equally for developed countries. It’s in everyone’s interest.”

So what’s holding back progress? There’s the longstanding fear among rich countries that moving ahead on dealing with loss and damage will end up with them being held financially liable for the costs of damage around the world driven largely by their own use of fossil fuels over decades.

But lobbying by powerful industries against taxes on things like fossil fuel use and financial transactions also are playing a role, Singh said.

“These are the same vested interested that have got us to a stage where the only planet where we can live is becoming uninhabitable for many,” he said. “We’re moving towards a very dangerous world if we continue to serve the interests of the same lobbies.”

What poor countries are asking for at the U.N. climate talks, he said, is not “billions on the table” direct from rich governments but “space to work on financial instruments”.

Failure to find answers will have consequences for rich countries as well as poor –and not just from worsening disaster losses. If poor families can no longer survive, they will move, he warned, adding to migration pressures around the world.

 “With some support, they can stay where they are, with some finance and instruments to help them recover. Trust me, the majority of people do not want to move,” Singh said.

SOURCE: REUTERS/PACNEWS

14 ministers in new Solomon Islands Government sworn in

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Solomon Islands Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela has named his cabinet Ministers after he was sworn into office.

14 cabinet ministers in his Government took their oath of office Thursday.

Prime Minister Houenipwela and other senior Government officials witnessed the swearing-in ceremony at Government House in Honiara.

They are:

1. Manasseh Sogavare, MP, as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance and Treasury;

2. John Maneniaru, MP, as the Minister for Fisheries & Marine Resources;

3. Peter Shanel Agovaka, MP, as the Minister for Communications and Aviation;

4. John Dean Kuku, MP, as the Minister for Education and Human Resources Development;

5. Jimson Fiau Tanagada, MP, as the Minister for Home Affairs;

6. Bradley Tovosia, MP, as the Minister for Mines and Energy;

7. Freda Tuki, MP, as the Minister for Women, Youth & Children Affairs;

8. Moses Garu, MP, as the Minister for Police & National Security;

9. Andrew Manepora, MP, as the Minister for Lands and Housing;

10. Bartholomew Parapolo, MP, as the Minister for Culture & Tourism;

11. Samuel Manetoali, MP, as the Minister for Forestry and Research;

12. Nestor Ghiro, MP, as the Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening;

13. Dr Culwick Togamana, MP, as the Minister for Environment & Conservation;

14. Connelly Sandakabatu, MP, as the Minister for Public Service.

The remaining ministers are expected to take their oath of office and oath of allegiance today.

SOURCE: SIBC/PACNEWS

PNG Kumuls v England Rugby League World Cup live updates, live streaming

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We will bring the live updates of the Papua New Guinea Kumuls versus England, Rugby League World Cup match here. The match will be played at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia.  The game begins at 3:00 pm (PNG time) this afternoon. We will use twitter feeds to update the match. We will also post live videos. Refresh the page every time to see the updates.




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