 |
| pn267 |
The EU and New Zealand want to wrap up an FTA this year - but will that come at the cost of a good deal on agriculture? Phil Hogan, the EU’s
Showing posts with label EU. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EU. Show all posts
Sunday, 17 February 2019
Prospects for a NZ-EU Agricultural Trade Deal
Friday, 25 March 2011
Fiji 'Playing Politics' at MSG? Pacific Islands Trade, Disabilities, Gays have Human Rights
WEEKEND READING ♦ Allen Lockington Column ♦ People's Charter Pillar 4 Public Service Efficiency: for Discussion ♦ Father Arms Corrects Me on the Charter's Proposed Voting System
♦ Kevin Rudd Takes His Eye off Pacific Islands
I had hoped to publish " Two Viewpoints on the Alleged Torture of Detainees" but this will now be deferred for two weeks due to the Amnesty International NZ CEO being temporarily unavailable.
Photo: A comment on last year's Engaging the Pacific meeting that was held when the MSG meeting was cancelled by then Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei, some say due to Australian pressure.
N0258. SNIPING FROM THE SIDELINES. The Melanesian Spearhead Group is meeting in Suva this week and next. Last year's meeting was abandoned because the then MSG chairman, Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei, refused to hand over his chairmanship to Fiji whose turn it was to host the meeting. Natapei denies he was influenced by Australia and NZ in his decision. This year, no longer chairman and no longer PM, he tells Radio NZ International that Vanuatu should reconsider its membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group because the MSG is now — and for one brief term only — "chaired by a non-democratically elected government.”
Thank you, RNZI, what would we do without you to keep us informed on what we should think about Fiji? Having obtained Natapei's statement RNZI journalists ferreted out another negative comment on the MSG meeting, this time from Auckland University's (and formerly USP's) Dr Steven Ratuva who is usually not known for negative comments.
Steve warns the MSG not to become "a tool of geopolitics." He says (or is reported to have said) Fiji's chairmanship of the MSG meeting "consolidates Commodore Bainimarama’s power in his scrap with Australia and New Zealand, and he may feel he’s now the new regional leader to be reckoned with."
“Perhaps in the long run that kind of thinking may be counter productive to the MSG which really needs to be focused more on economics and trade rather than in terms of fighting the political battle. So if [Commodore] Bainimarama uses the MSG as a means by which it can leverage politically then it might not be in the future interests of the MSG.”
But, Steve, since all politicians play politics (that's what they do), why can't Fiji join the game? Fiji did not kick itself out of the Pacific Islands Forum, or the PACER talks (it wanted to participate). Australia and NZ influenced the Pacific's Forum members to make that political decision. Fiji did not ask the Commonwealth to be excluded from the Delhi Games. Australia and NZ urged the Commonwealth to take that political decision. Fiji did not ask the EU to suspend aid to its sugar industry. Australia and NZ were at it again. And Fiji has not placed travel bans on Australian and NZ sportsmen and women. That's Australia and NZ again. So if Australia and NZ are playing politics, is this also not the "the future interests of the MSG — and the Forum? As the saying goes, "If it'sgood bad for the goose, it's good bad for the gander."
Perhaps we can now get some worthwhile coverage of the MSG meeting by Radio NZ International — or any other media news source for that matter. It's not often we get so many Pacific leaders together. They should merit some mention.
N0259. MSG TRADING PARTNERS. The Director of Trade and Investment at the MSG Secretariat, Mere Falemaka, has told MSG delegates that while there has been an increase in trading among the MSG countries, there's a long way to go before the trade potential is fully realized. She urged all MSG countries to explore areas outside their traditional trading boundaries.
Australia continues to be the Region's biggest trading partner in both imports and exports followed by Asian countries (China, Japan, Indonesia, Korea and others) with whom trade it rapidly increasing. New Zealand comes next.-- based on No:0722/MOI.
N0260. FIRST LADY LAUNCHES DISABILITIES WORKSHOP. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) two-day workshop on empowering the deaf was launched by the First Lady Adi Koila Nailatikau on Thursday. The workshop was by the Fiji Association of the Deaf. The association has received $38,000 funding from the European Union for a one year period. The workshop focused on issues relating to employment and health. -- Based on No:0717/MOI.
N0261. FIJI AGAINST GAY DISCRIMINATION. Fiji joined 84 other countries recently in released a joint statement at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on "Ending Acts on Violence and Related Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity." Local NGO, Women's Action for Change director Peni Moore said her organisation was pleased with the action taken by the Government.
"For those of us who've been working in this area for a long time, it gave us great pride to see what the Government has done," said Mrs Moore. She said she was honoured to be a member of one of the first Pacific island countries that was a signatory to the statement.
The US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, said the event stressed a commitment by the US to human rights through dialogue, open discussion and frank conversation, according to a statement yesterday. "Gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights," Mrs Clinton said.
♦ Kevin Rudd Takes His Eye off Pacific Islands
Photo: A comment on last year's Engaging the Pacific meeting that was held when the MSG meeting was cancelled by then Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei, some say due to Australian pressure.N0258. SNIPING FROM THE SIDELINES. The Melanesian Spearhead Group is meeting in Suva this week and next. Last year's meeting was abandoned because the then MSG chairman, Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei, refused to hand over his chairmanship to Fiji whose turn it was to host the meeting. Natapei denies he was influenced by Australia and NZ in his decision. This year, no longer chairman and no longer PM, he tells Radio NZ International that Vanuatu should reconsider its membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group because the MSG is now — and for one brief term only — "chaired by a non-democratically elected government.”
Thank you, RNZI, what would we do without you to keep us informed on what we should think about Fiji? Having obtained Natapei's statement RNZI journalists ferreted out another negative comment on the MSG meeting, this time from Auckland University's (and formerly USP's) Dr Steven Ratuva who is usually not known for negative comments.
Steve warns the MSG not to become "a tool of geopolitics." He says (or is reported to have said) Fiji's chairmanship of the MSG meeting "consolidates Commodore Bainimarama’s power in his scrap with Australia and New Zealand, and he may feel he’s now the new regional leader to be reckoned with."
“Perhaps in the long run that kind of thinking may be counter productive to the MSG which really needs to be focused more on economics and trade rather than in terms of fighting the political battle. So if [Commodore] Bainimarama uses the MSG as a means by which it can leverage politically then it might not be in the future interests of the MSG.”
But, Steve, since all politicians play politics (that's what they do), why can't Fiji join the game? Fiji did not kick itself out of the Pacific Islands Forum, or the PACER talks (it wanted to participate). Australia and NZ influenced the Pacific's Forum members to make that political decision. Fiji did not ask the Commonwealth to be excluded from the Delhi Games. Australia and NZ urged the Commonwealth to take that political decision. Fiji did not ask the EU to suspend aid to its sugar industry. Australia and NZ were at it again. And Fiji has not placed travel bans on Australian and NZ sportsmen and women. That's Australia and NZ again. So if Australia and NZ are playing politics, is this also not the "the future interests of the MSG — and the Forum? As the saying goes, "If it's
Perhaps we can now get some worthwhile coverage of the MSG meeting by Radio NZ International — or any other media news source for that matter. It's not often we get so many Pacific leaders together. They should merit some mention.
N0259. MSG TRADING PARTNERS. The Director of Trade and Investment at the MSG Secretariat, Mere Falemaka, has told MSG delegates that while there has been an increase in trading among the MSG countries, there's a long way to go before the trade potential is fully realized. She urged all MSG countries to explore areas outside their traditional trading boundaries.
Australia continues to be the Region's biggest trading partner in both imports and exports followed by Asian countries (China, Japan, Indonesia, Korea and others) with whom trade it rapidly increasing. New Zealand comes next.-- based on No:0722/MOI.
N0260. FIRST LADY LAUNCHES DISABILITIES WORKSHOP. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) two-day workshop on empowering the deaf was launched by the First Lady Adi Koila Nailatikau on Thursday. The workshop was by the Fiji Association of the Deaf. The association has received $38,000 funding from the European Union for a one year period. The workshop focused on issues relating to employment and health. -- Based on No:0717/MOI.
N0261. FIJI AGAINST GAY DISCRIMINATION. Fiji joined 84 other countries recently in released a joint statement at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on "Ending Acts on Violence and Related Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity." Local NGO, Women's Action for Change director Peni Moore said her organisation was pleased with the action taken by the Government.
"For those of us who've been working in this area for a long time, it gave us great pride to see what the Government has done," said Mrs Moore. She said she was honoured to be a member of one of the first Pacific island countries that was a signatory to the statement.
The US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, said the event stressed a commitment by the US to human rights through dialogue, open discussion and frank conversation, according to a statement yesterday. "Gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights," Mrs Clinton said.
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
PM on Racism and Elections; Graham Southwick on the EU's 'Never-ending' Story
“Na veivakaduiduitaki vakamatatamata e vakadukadukalitaka na noda vanua (Racism corrupts our country).“E kune e loma ni politiki, ka kauta mai na veilecayaki e na noda vanua. E teteva na veimata tamata kei na lotu. E dodonu me vakawabokotaki. E vakataotaka na toso. (It is rife in politics and creates uncertainty among people. Racism is found in religious societies also. It should be stamped out. It affects growth and progress).
He said the People’s Charter was built on removing racial differences.
“This Government wants to remove racial discrimination so that we can live together peacefully. This is the charter — one country and one people. We should learn to love each other and appreciate each other’s race. This is your country and this is your land. No one can take them away from you but what this Government wants is to shape a Fiji every citizen will enjoy living in.We are working on these grounds to pave a way for the 2014 elections.”
He said citizens of this country should elect good politicians for the 2014 elections. “Select politicians who can move the country forward so that we gain prosperity. Don’t just elect anyone. We want a Fiji for everyone.”
He said the voting age should be dropped to 18 to allow youths to raise their choices and voices in the formation of their government. “Soldiers go to war at the age of 18. They fight and die for our country but they are not given the freedom to have a say in how to run their country.”
“That is why we are working hard to make changes before the elections. This Government is for you the people, but you should also change for the better. Watch what is happening around you; the prices of food you buy, the state of frozen foods in the shops and supermarkets, the cost of hardware prices and so many things. Be alert so that you can also change and move forward."
Bainimarama is the first Prime Minister to visit Nakalawaca and Namara. His next visit will be to Kadavu island to inspect the progress of Government-funded projects and meet the people.
N248. EU'S 'NEVER-ENDING LIST.' Fiji Fish Company head Graham Southwick says the recent EU audit may pave the way for fish exports to the EU but he wonders whether it’s worth meeting the EU's remaining conditions. The EU still needs to clear fisheries exporters and it’s asked them to fulfill an extensive list of conditions.
“Now they’re talking about having to upgrade not only the factories, they want to upgrade the boats and then they want to upgrade the trucks ... Where is the thing going to end really, upgrading the airport or the aircraft? ...We don’t have any finite list that we can say, ’OK if we do these 10 things that we can go to Europe’. At the moment the list seems to be never-ending.”
Southwick says Fiji exporters have asked for a final list of conditions so that they can work out how much it’ll cost to come up to EU standard.
[Sounds a bit like the battle to get Australia to accept NZ apples! All's fair in love and
Monday, 24 January 2011
It's Only a (FRU) Game & Ugly Racism, Housing Authority Helps Poor, EU Extends Agreements
Reader's opinions on the new posting days and times would be most welcome.
N0065. A NEW BALL GAME. In a new development the FRU Board, on the advice of the International Rugby Board, has reversed its decision and will not resign over the lottery saga.
The IRB apparently think changes to management could be a contravention of the FRU constitution which "could result in the IRB having to take a determination on the continued membership of the IRB of the FRU." They have further advised that a decision on the lottery is a matter between the FRU and the Fiji Commerce Commission.
The IRB made no mention of the inspection of the FRU accounts that suggested mismanagement and misspending (at least $150,000 is missing), and they had nothing to say on charging two different prices for the same ticket, which, surely, is at the crux of the issue. Fiji does not need anyone, at home or overseas, to condone the mismanagement of public money. Mismanagement and misuse of office are but short steps on the way to full-blown corruption.
'UGLY RACISM'
And on this issue, the supposedly pro-democracy CoupFourPointFive blog published this comment from one of their readers.
- "IRB vs Regime - & the winner is?
-
Remove the scumbags said... - Time to totally isolate the scumbags in this military regime. Ban Fiji rugby Union from the world cup and all other international rugby until the human rights abusing Fiji military return to their filthy barracks. As for their few cowardly coup supporters - read the latest in the Cros Walsh pro junta racist blog - he and his mongoose supporters (in their bitterness and desperation) are now attacking the hapless families of the NZ mine disaster and the floods in Australia. Vermin, all of them."
Pike River disaster in this blog. The person commenting has made this up.
The CoupFourPointFive comment was brought to my attention by a reader who wrote:
Ugly racism at 4.5 has left a new comment on your post "Why the Roadmap? The Politics under the Bridges Pa...":
"Croz, to follow is yet another disgraceful example of the way Coup 4.5 tolerates, and arguably encourages, racist comments about Indo-Fijians.
Like you, the site's operators have the ability to screen such material and choose not to do so. Yet they routinely reject moderate opinion that in any way portrays the Bainimarama regime in a favourable light. I would strongly urge you to tackle this appalling racism head-on by giving such postings the highest prominence on your site. It's high time to go to war against 4.5, a site that poses as moderate and pro-democratic but is really a front for the racists of the indigenous hard right. More than anything, this shows why the coup of 2006 was vital to protect the rights of other citizens. And we need to keep our boots on their miserable throats."
N0066. HOUSING AUTHORITY HELPS POOR AND UNEMPLOYED. The Housing Authority Board has approved a new housing loan rehabilitation policy that will assist customers who are finding it difficult to meet their loan repayments due to retirement, sickness, unemployment and disability. The policy will also assist those defaulting customers who are covered under the Village Housing Scheme. The new policy will target customers who have paid more than twice the principle loan amount, and those who are unemployed or facing financial difficulties.
The PM said the policy is not a handout but a "social desire to assist the marginalized and those who are at risk of losing their homes." It will assist home owners by either writing off part or the whole of their remaining loan or by temporarily assisting the unemployed by freezing the interest and fees on the loan balance for up to 12 months. Hundreds of middle and low income families are expected to be assisted under the policy.
N0067. EU PARLIAMENT EXTENDS AGREEMENTS.The European Union has extended its Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (I-EPA) trade agreements with Fiji and PNG, and stated that it has a strong interest in continuing to maintain close, high-level economic relations with the Pacific states. The EU parliament added that the agreement could also lead to negotiations on a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement if so desired by the two countries.
The Interim EPA was initiated by Fiji and PNG in 2007 and signed by them in 2009 in order to ensure that preferential exports of sugar and fish into the EU market continue after the expiry of the trade preferences under the Cotonou Agreement on 1st January 2008.
Foreign Affairs Minister Ratu Inoke Ratu Kubuabola said that I-EPA was critical to the survival of the Fiji Sugar Industry because is provided a guaranteed market access into the European Union until 2015, at preferential price, which was equivalent to the price received by the European Union Sugar producers. He hoped that after 2015, the agricultural reforms undertaken by the European Union will ensure that the interest of Fiji and other ACP Sugar producers will be maintained in the European Union market. Ratu Inoke was hopeful the ban on fisheries exports will be lifted now that health and safety issues have been addressed.
A meeting of the Pacific ACP Trade Ministers will be meeting in Apia on 3-4 February to instill momentum in the Comprehensive EPA negotiations with the European Union. --- Based on 2011, No: 0154/MOI.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
UK, French, EU Trade, Minimum Wages, Workplace Discrimination, Development Multiplier Effect
The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss issues relating to bilateral trade opportunities between Fiji, United Kingdom, and France and with the European Union as a whole.
The issues discussed included capacity building and training opportunities within the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Fisheries and Forestry; technical expertise on legislation' market excess, and government’s focus on export promotion, import substitution and poverty alleviation.”
Help was also sought on the EU ban on kava exports and the wish to extend the FairTrade Act to non-sugar agricultural commodities. -- Based on 2011, No:0039/MPI.
N0020. MINIMUM WAGES— AGAIN. Government backed down from implementing minimum wages last year due to employer pressure. The issue, however, is not dead and Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment, Filipe Bole, has confirmed that the ministry was actively engaged with the tripartite social partners at the Employment Relations Advisory Board to finalise new minimum wage formulae to be adopted by the Wages Councils.
After the three special sittings of the Wages Board last year the social partners unanimously agree to adopt the wage setting criteria in the ILO Convention No. 131, especially Article 3, as the basis to objectively review the minimum wages under the WRO. This included an appropriate national minimum wage formula compatible with the economic and social realities of Fiji. The Board also agreed to engage local professors of economics to recommend formulae for the sectoral minimum wages and national minimum wage to the Board before final formulae are recommended to the Minister for Labour for Cabinet’s consideration. The Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment under the Peoples Charter to move towards a national minimum Wage in phases to help alleviate poverty. 2011, No:0042/LABOUR.
Comment: The phases seem more likely to help employers, and not those in poverty. Once again we see the difficulty government has in juggling conflicting interests. Small employers especially are finding things difficult in the present economic climate but even when things were easier some employers paid the least possible wages. And if the conditions are difficult for employers, those living on wages below the poverty line will be finding it even more difficult.
N0021. DISCRIMINATION STILL IN WORKPLACES. Labour Minister Filipe Bole said the Employment Relations Promulgations of 2007 prohibit all forms of discrimination in the workplace. But despite this discrimination and unlawful segregation work cultures between races and gender continue. The Regulations state entitlements to fair labour practices and equal opportunities in employment for all workers in accordance with the 1998 International Labour Organisation Declaration on the Fundamentals Principles and Rights at Work that Fiji has ratified.
Under these parts, no employer or person shall discriminate against any worker or prospective worker on the grounds of ethnicity, colour, gender, religion, political opinion, national extraction, sexual orientation, age, social origin, marital status, pregnancy, family responsibilities, state of health including real or perceived HIV status, trade union membership or activity, or disability in respect of recruitment, training, promotion, terms and conditions of employment, termination of employment or other matters arising out of the employment relationship.
The Minister said one of the biggest challenges his ministry faces is the promotion of non-discriminatory labour practices in private and public workplaces. All employers need to adopt and practice Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) values and behaviours that are also in line with the Peoples Charter and Government’s firm commitment to introduce equal citizenry and non-race-based electoral and political systems.-- Based on 2011, No:0042/MOI.
N0022. DEVELOPMENT IN NORTHERN DIVISION. Over 1,350 projects have been funded by the Northern Development Programme over the past three years. NDP manager Waisale Tuidama said the projects cost $7.5million,about $3.5m funded by NDP and $3.9m by other banks. Sectors funded include 553 projects in dalo and yaqona farming, 217 fishing projects, 127 sugarcane projects, 39 rice farming projects and 105 livestock projects. The multiplier effect is estimated to be about $35m.
The Manager said, "The NDP was focused towards establishing fishing projects during the first two years. Now we are trying to develop livestock, dairy, rice and other commercial farming projects to utilise the natural resources and become self-sufficient.We hope to introduce cluster farming whereby a farmer is involved in numerous farming projects. This will also make it easier for the farmer to market the products."
Thursday, 9 December 2010
EU to Engage, Kisan Sangh Supports Sugar Reforms, More Fiji Water, Rural Development, Soqosoqo Vakamarama Welcomes Funding
EU WILLING TO ENGAGE ON ROADMAP. The European Union has indicated its willingness to engage more with Fiji on its Roadmap for the Return to Democracy in 2014, according to Fiji’s ambassador to Brussels Peceli Vocea, who said a letter outlining the EU’s position has been signed by Catherine Ashton, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Commissioner Development Andris Piebalgs.
“That’s a very interesting development." he said. "I think a letter was just sent to Fiji signed by the Commissioner Development, and Catherine Ashton, that they are looking forward to working with Fiji on the roadmap – with regards processes Fiji may need to put in place for 2014.” He described the letter as a very important gesture, and a very important development for Fiji with the EU.
FIJI'S OLDEST UNION SUPPORTS GOVT REFORMS. The Fiji Kisan Sangh (Farmers'Union) has called on cane growers to get together and support government’s plan to reform the sugar industry. Sangh national general secretary Pundit Om Prakash reiterated PM Bainimarama’s earlier statement to farmers that too much political interference in the past caused the downfall of the sugar industry. With an allocation of $123m set aside for the sugar industry Pundit Prakash says this clearly indicates how much government is committed to reviving the industry.
Pundit Prakash has also welcomed the $6m allocated for the cane replanting program saying that farmers should be thankful and work hard to make full use of this initiative. He says farmers can also be rest assured that things will run smoothly within the FSC as government has indicated it will monitor the income and expenditure of the company from next year.
Kisan Sangh was the first farmers' union formed in Fiji in 1937. The Wikipedia entry is well worth reading, just in case we forget the Colonial Sugar Refining Company.
FIJI WATER. A reader thinks I erred in linking to the Sydney Morning Herald article on Fiji Water without further comment. He wrote: "You start it with I didn't know that Fiji Water had 'paid less than $F1 million in total corporate tax since its inception, and received up to $F5 million UNDERLINE a year in value-added tax refunds for its export sales.' A valid point, he says, but I should have said they were given a 12-year corporate tax exemption when they set up. Nor did I mention "the reason they get their VAT back is that they are the country’s most successful exporter and they are complying with one of this very Government’s policy to encourage exports. A plan that has worked spectacularly well in the case of Fiji Water. You do not mention the royalty they pay to Yaqara ...the millions in duty [and] PAYE they pay, [and] the millions they make in FNPF contributions." I hope this redresses my omissions.
RURAL GOOD WORKS. Works Ministry spokesperson Sainiana Waqainabete said this government is committed to improving the lives of people living in rural areas by providing them with proper infrastructure. Developments taking place include major upgrading of roads, electricity and water provision, focusing in the immediate future on Labasa, Tailevu and Nadroga. She said there are indications that some people who have migrated to urban areas return to their villages once proper roads, electricity and piped water are supplied.
SOQOSOQO VAKAMARAMA has applauded the increased 2011 budget allocation for the Women’s Plan of Action 2010-2019. General secretary Adi Finau Tabakaucoro said the increase of $50,000 in the Budget and the allocation of $160,000 for the Fiji Women’s Federation, to total $1.6m, reflect on the government’s commitment to the development of women in the country. The allocations will help more women to start micro-enterprise businesses and income-generating projects to reduce poverty, especially in rural areas.
Adi Finau said "Government is doing its part. It’s providing the resources and facilitating development initiatives and reforms are resulting in several changes for the better. Now the responsibility rests on the communities, the NGOs and the civil society to play their part to ensure the aims of the Government particularly those outlined in the Roadmap for the Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development 2009 to 2014 is being fulfilled.” -- Based on 2010, No:2103/MWSS.
FIJI'S OLDEST UNION SUPPORTS GOVT REFORMS. The Fiji Kisan Sangh (Farmers'Union) has called on cane growers to get together and support government’s plan to reform the sugar industry. Sangh national general secretary Pundit Om Prakash reiterated PM Bainimarama’s earlier statement to farmers that too much political interference in the past caused the downfall of the sugar industry. With an allocation of $123m set aside for the sugar industry Pundit Prakash says this clearly indicates how much government is committed to reviving the industry.
Pundit Prakash has also welcomed the $6m allocated for the cane replanting program saying that farmers should be thankful and work hard to make full use of this initiative. He says farmers can also be rest assured that things will run smoothly within the FSC as government has indicated it will monitor the income and expenditure of the company from next year.
Kisan Sangh was the first farmers' union formed in Fiji in 1937. The Wikipedia entry is well worth reading, just in case we forget the Colonial Sugar Refining Company.
FIJI WATER. A reader thinks I erred in linking to the Sydney Morning Herald article on Fiji Water without further comment. He wrote: "You start it with I didn't know that Fiji Water had 'paid less than $F1 million in total corporate tax since its inception, and received up to $F5 million UNDERLINE a year in value-added tax refunds for its export sales.' A valid point, he says, but I should have said they were given a 12-year corporate tax exemption when they set up. Nor did I mention "the reason they get their VAT back is that they are the country’s most successful exporter and they are complying with one of this very Government’s policy to encourage exports. A plan that has worked spectacularly well in the case of Fiji Water. You do not mention the royalty they pay to Yaqara ...the millions in duty [and] PAYE they pay, [and] the millions they make in FNPF contributions." I hope this redresses my omissions.
RURAL GOOD WORKS. Works Ministry spokesperson Sainiana Waqainabete said this government is committed to improving the lives of people living in rural areas by providing them with proper infrastructure. Developments taking place include major upgrading of roads, electricity and water provision, focusing in the immediate future on Labasa, Tailevu and Nadroga. She said there are indications that some people who have migrated to urban areas return to their villages once proper roads, electricity and piped water are supplied.
SOQOSOQO VAKAMARAMA has applauded the increased 2011 budget allocation for the Women’s Plan of Action 2010-2019. General secretary Adi Finau Tabakaucoro said the increase of $50,000 in the Budget and the allocation of $160,000 for the Fiji Women’s Federation, to total $1.6m, reflect on the government’s commitment to the development of women in the country. The allocations will help more women to start micro-enterprise businesses and income-generating projects to reduce poverty, especially in rural areas.
Adi Finau said "Government is doing its part. It’s providing the resources and facilitating development initiatives and reforms are resulting in several changes for the better. Now the responsibility rests on the communities, the NGOs and the civil society to play their part to ensure the aims of the Government particularly those outlined in the Roadmap for the Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development 2009 to 2014 is being fulfilled.” -- Based on 2010, No:2103/MWSS.
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
Call for UN Involvement, US Blocks Fiji's Open Access to UN; ACP- EU Fact Finding Mission
CALL FOR UN TO GET INVOLVED. Great, I thought. RadioNZI has at last published something other than its usual condemnation of Fiji. The email alert read: "Call for United Nations to get involved in liaising with Pacific neighbours. A New Zealand businessman with extensive interests in Fiji is calling for the United Nations to be brought in to help resolve the strained relations between ..."
So I clicked their website to read the rest of the story and this is what I got: "Error!Invalid Story ID<\p>. News Content © Radio New Zealand International ." We are left wondering why.
SAD, VERY SAD. Hillary Clinton's recent visit to Australia and New Zealand, — and her comments on a fresh engagement with Fiji — led optimists to think the US would take a lead in finding more appropriate policies on Fiji than the failed policies of Australia and New Zealand that in four years have produced no positive results. But now, with the US failure to issue three visas to Fiji officials, the forewarnings of the the pessimists have proven correct.
The Chief Justice was to have attended the 9th Session of the Assembly of States Parties at UN HQ in New York. The invitation came from the International Criminal Court.
Permanent Secretary for Fisheries Viliame Naupoto was denied entry to the US to attend an international Convention for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.
The Minister for Local Government and Environment needed a transit visa to attend the 16th UN Conference on Climate Change (COP16) in Cancun Mexico. Fiji attended the 15th Conference in Copenhagen last year that failed to lay out a concrete plan to maintain global temperature rises and legally binding reductions to CO2 emissions. High level participation and involvement of all countries and Governments including Fiji at COP16 in Cancun, Mexico was therefore crucial.
Bigger Issue : US Blocks Access to UN
The failure to issue visas to these, and other Fiji representatives, raises a larger and more general issue: how on earth did the international community allow the United Nations to be located in New York without first ensuring that UN-recognized state representatives were guaranteed freedom of access?
One must note that similar restrictions were not applied against Communist countries during the Cold War, nor are they applied against BIGGER countries with far less legitimacy and far worse civil rights issues than Fiji.
One reader observed: "This is typical of the bullying of small insignificant states that goes on hypocritically under the radar. Designed to be insulting, and another obvious interference with the Fiji judiciary."
The action (or lack of it) by the US Embassy gives the clear impression that it does not want Fiji, as a small developing country which is vulnerable to the immediate effects of climate change, to be involved in and to address issues such as climate change, global carbon trading system, rising sea levels, emission reduction and renewable energy technology transfer. These issues are of utmost importance to Fiji as an island State and Fiji, like all other countries in the world, must be allowed to raise these issues at the global level."
Fiji Vital to US National Security: Wikileaks.
There are two other related issues to consider: In most matters Fiji may be "insignificant" in US eyes but as Wikileaks recently pointed out US documents have listed Fiji’s Southern Cross undersea cable landing in Suva as vital to US national security. Fiji is one of 300 countries listed by the US as “critical infrastructure and key resources located abroad" – also known as potential terrorism targets. US State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley told CNN, "Without discussing any particular cable, the release of this kind of information gives a group like al Qaeda a targeting list."
Big Brother is Watching
Finally, another cause for reflection on the "Free World." My blog reader Global Citizen had this to say: "An entirely speculative question here, but one now wonders whether your rights under the visa waiver programme still qualify... you have, after all, and no doubt noticed by Washington, become a lobbyist for a military regime to whom they do not give visas for.... tried visiting the US recently? It is actually a serious issue - you will have been noticed and reported upon. Lobbyist for undesirable regimes is something Washington takes note of. I'd check if I were you; detention at LAX is very tedious. You might even share the facility with an Australian woman from MinFo."
I'm not a lobbyist nor do I wish to visit the USA, but Global Citizen raises a worrying question for others who may choose not to toe the mainstream line. It is always easier to swim with the current.
ACP- EU FACT-FINDING MISSION. The joint parliamentary assembly of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group and the European Union has decided to send a fact-finding mission to Fiji next year. Solomon Islands representative at the meeting, Milner Tozaka, described the mission as an important and positive engagement with Fiji because it will give ACP and EU MPs the opportunity to get first-hand information from the Fiji authorities.
SAD, VERY SAD. Hillary Clinton's recent visit to Australia and New Zealand, — and her comments on a fresh engagement with Fiji — led optimists to think the US would take a lead in finding more appropriate policies on Fiji than the failed policies of Australia and New Zealand that in four years have produced no positive results. But now, with the US failure to issue three visas to Fiji officials, the forewarnings of the the pessimists have proven correct.
The Chief Justice was to have attended the 9th Session of the Assembly of States Parties at UN HQ in New York. The invitation came from the International Criminal Court.
Permanent Secretary for Fisheries Viliame Naupoto was denied entry to the US to attend an international Convention for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.
The Minister for Local Government and Environment needed a transit visa to attend the 16th UN Conference on Climate Change (COP16) in Cancun Mexico. Fiji attended the 15th Conference in Copenhagen last year that failed to lay out a concrete plan to maintain global temperature rises and legally binding reductions to CO2 emissions. High level participation and involvement of all countries and Governments including Fiji at COP16 in Cancun, Mexico was therefore crucial.
Bigger Issue : US Blocks Access to UN
The failure to issue visas to these, and other Fiji representatives, raises a larger and more general issue: how on earth did the international community allow the United Nations to be located in New York without first ensuring that UN-recognized state representatives were guaranteed freedom of access?
One must note that similar restrictions were not applied against Communist countries during the Cold War, nor are they applied against BIGGER countries with far less legitimacy and far worse civil rights issues than Fiji.
One reader observed: "This is typical of the bullying of small insignificant states that goes on hypocritically under the radar. Designed to be insulting, and another obvious interference with the Fiji judiciary."
The action (or lack of it) by the US Embassy gives the clear impression that it does not want Fiji, as a small developing country which is vulnerable to the immediate effects of climate change, to be involved in and to address issues such as climate change, global carbon trading system, rising sea levels, emission reduction and renewable energy technology transfer. These issues are of utmost importance to Fiji as an island State and Fiji, like all other countries in the world, must be allowed to raise these issues at the global level."
Fiji Vital to US National Security: Wikileaks.
There are two other related issues to consider: In most matters Fiji may be "insignificant" in US eyes but as Wikileaks recently pointed out US documents have listed Fiji’s Southern Cross undersea cable landing in Suva as vital to US national security. Fiji is one of 300 countries listed by the US as “critical infrastructure and key resources located abroad" – also known as potential terrorism targets. US State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley told CNN, "Without discussing any particular cable, the release of this kind of information gives a group like al Qaeda a targeting list."
Big Brother is Watching
Finally, another cause for reflection on the "Free World." My blog reader Global Citizen had this to say: "An entirely speculative question here, but one now wonders whether your rights under the visa waiver programme still qualify... you have, after all, and no doubt noticed by Washington, become a lobbyist for a military regime to whom they do not give visas for.... tried visiting the US recently? It is actually a serious issue - you will have been noticed and reported upon. Lobbyist for undesirable regimes is something Washington takes note of. I'd check if I were you; detention at LAX is very tedious. You might even share the facility with an Australian woman from MinFo."
I'm not a lobbyist nor do I wish to visit the USA, but Global Citizen raises a worrying question for others who may choose not to toe the mainstream line. It is always easier to swim with the current.
ACP- EU FACT-FINDING MISSION. The joint parliamentary assembly of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group and the European Union has decided to send a fact-finding mission to Fiji next year. Solomon Islands representative at the meeting, Milner Tozaka, described the mission as an important and positive engagement with Fiji because it will give ACP and EU MPs the opportunity to get first-hand information from the Fiji authorities.
Friday, 3 December 2010
Natapei Out, Election Date, 2011 Budget, PACER, Tui Cakau a Villager, EU Fish, China Cement, Pine Dividend, Qarase in Court
WEEKEND READING (published 8:40 — 9:00 am Saturday
♦ Allen Lockington column
♦ Fr Barr on Productivity and Stability
♦ Peter Gleick on Fiji Water
♦ Fire at Fiji Museum by Roderick Ewins
NATAPEI OUT. Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei has been ousted from office in a 30:15 no confidence motion. Former Deputy Prime Minister, Sato Kilman has been sworn in as Prime Minister.
The move happened while Mr Natapei was out of the country, on his way to Cancun for the UN Climate Change Conference, and was driven by unhappiness over his push to have five opposition MP's suspended from the house, and also over his refusal to hand over the rotating chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group to Fiji, many said because of Australian pressure.
Mr Natapei was to officially apologize to Fiji for this action in a reconciliation ceremony in Honiara next week. Mr Kilman will now presumably perform this task for him
ELECTION DATE REAFFIRMED. The Strategic Framework for Coordinating Change spokesman Edward Tunidau has assured those attending the Fiji, Australia and New Zealand Business Forum that elections will be held in September 2014. He said the implementation of government's Roadmap and the Strategic Framework for Change was high on the agenda of the Public Service Commission. Mr Tunidau highlighted issues of good governance practices and how they planned to achieve this.
"Our commitment to the betterment of Fiji is continuing and we are now focusing on the economic and social development from 2009-2010. From 2012-2014, we will focus more on political development," said Mr Tunidau.He said the Constitution would be developed by 2013 with public consultation by September 2012. Other changes to be expected include electoral reforms that will be implemented under the new electoral system. "The voting age has moved to 18 years and there will now be a one-person-one-vote electoral strategy," said Mr Tunidau.He said good governance relied heavily on accountability and transparency. He said this had been taken up by the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption.
THE 2011 BUDGET. I will reserve my comments on the Budget until after I've obtained a copy. Meanwhile, here is a link to straightforward summary with some tables, and here's a polemic critique by Prof Wadan Narsey. Comments on Wadan's article (from Pacific Scoop, copied unacknowledged by Coup4.5) by economists would be particularly welcome.
PACER PLUS AND PIPSO. Fiji was barred from Pacer Plus meetings following its suspension from the Pacific Islands Forum. It seems, however, that Australia and New Zealand have recognized Fiji's economic importance in the region and indicated that they wish for some Fiji participation in the negotiations. The result is that Fiji will be "represented" by its private sector at the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisations second Business Forum in Nadi December 8-9 where topics for discussion will include PACER Plus, funding availability in the region, how the region can benefit from the current economic boom in PNG and the expected economic boom in Guam as a result of the multi-billion dollar relocation of US Marines to the island country.
CHIEF 'JUST A VILLAGER'. Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the paramount chief of Cakaudrove, has not yet met the PM after saying a month ago that he wished to do so. Cakaudrove is the only province to withhold its support for Government which, given Ratu Naiqama's extreme nationalist politics, is no surprise. Cakaudrove chiefs and the provincial council, however, do not all agree with Ratu Naiqama's position and this is probably a reason why he said he wished to meet the PM.
Now, Ratu Naiqama is playing games. He says the PM "is a busy man and needs to set a time and date in which they can meet" and the PM is saying "if Ratu Naiqama wants to talk, he will have to make an appointment like everyone else."
Ratu Naiqama says “I’m waiting for him, the reason being, him being in that position of Prime Minister, it is a very busy position. Me on the other hand, I am just a villager in the village, so I think it is only proper that he provides the time and date as to when he wants to meet me. As for me, I am ready anytime.”
FISH FOR EUROPE? Fiji may soon re-commence fish exports to the $100million worth European market. Fiji was banned from exporting fish to the EU after it failed to fulfill phytosanitary conditions in 2008 and lost the market, which at that time was worth $100m. The report of an EU Food and Veterinary Office mission in September is likely to give Fiji a clean slate which could mean exports may recommence in 5-6 months time..
CHINESE CEMENT AT SIGATOKA? A Chinese delegation from the Northern Heavy Industries Group Company is currently in the country to hold talks on the proposed establishment of a cement factory in Sigatoka.
PINE PAYS FIRST DIVIDEND. For the first time ever Fiji Pine Ltd has handed over an interim dividend of $1 million to Fiji Pine Trust and dividends will be paid to landowners.The Trust has also bought back $500,000 of government shares in the company.
Ministry of Fisheries permanent secretary Viliame Naupoto is the new board chairman of Fiji Pine Co.Ltd, replacing LtCol Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara who was chairman from April 2009. Ratu Tevita is currently on extended leave from the military.
QARASE BAKANI IN COURT. Former PM Laisenia Qarase and former NLTB General Manager Kalivati Bakani appeared in court yesterday for the consolidation of their fraudulent conversion charges.
The FICAC prosecuting lawyer told the court that during his tenure as Minister of Fijian Affairs, Qarase had submitted a paper in cabinet for the approval of a $100,000 grant to invest in the Vanua Development Corporation, a corporation created for the purpose of investing money from indigenous landowners.
Qarase and Bakani face six counts of fraudulent conversions each.The case was adjourned to January 24.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Fiji Not a Lousy Place to Live, EU Mission Report, Economic Update, IMF Wants VAT Increase, Two Chiefly Forked Paths
VISIT THE RECORD 37 COMMENTS TO YESTERDAY'S POSTING.
SEE NEW QUOTE OF THE WEEK IN THE RIGHT SIDEBAR. 
FIJI HIGHER ON HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INDEX. With the deluge of recently reported world indices, each of which has shown Fiji to be a lousy place to live, it is pleasing to see the recently released 2010 UNDP Human Development Index report shows Fiji has improved its ranking from 108th out of 169 countries to 86th. The composite index is widely regarded as the most meaningful measure of the quality of life because it takes into account factors such as life expectancy, education, gender equality, income and income equality. The HDI has been used since 1990 as an alternative or supplementary measure of national development, until then measured solely by economic criteria such as Gross National Product (GNP), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and rates of economic growth.
Norway ranks number one in the world as the best country to live followed by Australia and New Zealand. Countries more comparable to Fiji, and their 2010 ranking, include Jamaica 80, Tonga 85, Maldives 110, Fed.States Micronesia 103, Indonesia 108, South Africa 110, Timor Leste 120, Solomon Is 123, PNG 137. Download the 2010 Report by clicking here.
EU MISSION ENDS VISIT. Last year Fiji lost its status as a fish exporter to the EU after their officials found deficiencies in Fiji's quality inspection authority. The situation is now thought to be rectified and Fiji hopes to again export fish to EU countries. Fiji's Solander Fishing Company has spent heavily on fixing its ships and five have now been classified as A-grade. In 2007, Fiji's total canned and frozen fish exports were worth around $100million, $3m more than the year before. For their overall report click here.
OVERALL ECONOMIC UPDATE. The Reserve Bank has announced that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth projection of 1.8% for 2010 is expected to be revised downwards due largely to declines in the agriculture sector, especially sugar. Weak performances were also experienced in transport, storage & communications, health and social work, real estate and business services and the community, social and the personal services sectors. The only industries that contributed positively through higher export values to this year’s growth so far were tourism, gold, timber and fish. Inflation fell to 1.1 percent in September, a marginal decline from 1.2 percent in August.The 2010 inflation forecast has been revised down to 4.0 percent.
IMF WANTS VAT INCREASE.The International Monetary Fund has recommended that VAT rates be increased in order to contain fiscal deficits and ensure a sustainable level of public debt which, at about 73% of GDP, constrains government's ability to cushion the economy against future shocks. So far Government has refused to increase VAT because it places a disproportionately heavy burden on the poor who, unlike the better-ff, have little to no discretionary expenditure.
TUI NAMOSI AND RO TEIMUMU. Former SDL Minister and Namosi high chief Ratu Suliano Matanitobua says the December 2006 Coup has happened and it is time to move on. He said he has left the events of the past in the past and he knows his people will suffer if he continues to work against government. He says he has made the decision for the sake of his people. He is calling on his people to support government and help move the country forward.
Ratu Suli's comment, made at last week's Provincial Council meeting, is ambiguous. He is calling for his people to support Government but seems to be doing so only because he thinks that if they don't, they'll miss out on development money. As far as I know there is no instance of this having happened to any province. If accurately reported, one wonders whether his approach is the same as that of Ro Teimumu who also last week welcomed Government's development work in Rewa province but continued to oppose the government in every other way.
Several government initiatives, including the Land Use Decree and the equal distribution of land lease money, will see chiefs, who used to take a bigger share, more than somewhat out of pocket. I wonder how many chiefs are playing liu muri.
Monday, 15 November 2010
Rumour-Mongers Got One Right, Tonga Okay, MSG Special Meeting, Sect Children Start School, Sugar Production Update, IMF Report, Price Anomalies
See new QUOTE FOR THE WEEK in the right sidebar, and scroll down to the Weekend Readings you may have missed. Notice also the new blog description above and the new countdown to election facility in the lift sidebar.
COMING BACK TO BITE THEM. Remember the Michael Field story a few weeks back? Unrest brewing in Fiji. Esala Teleni and Pita Driti "dumped" and "sent on indefinite leave." Tevita Mara "removed" as commander of the 3rd Fiji Infantry Regiment "amid wild rumours of further action." Well, Driti and Mara are back from leave and Teleni has been appointed Fiji's next amabassador to China. The latest is from Victor Lal on CoupFourPointFive. Reserve Bank Governor Sada Reddy has been stood down.
"According to highly reliable sources inside the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Reddy had allegedly transferred thousands of dollars to his private bank account in New Zealand last year, shortly before he devalued the valueless Fijian dollar ... More information as we get it." I don't know about the transfer allegation but he's presently on holiday in New Zealand where he has permanent residence and obligations to meet. So I'd expect him to be transferring money on a regular basis." Over to you Victor and Michael. I hope you will confirm or correct the information as you get it. If you accept bets, I'd be happy to be paid in "valueless Fijian dollars." Oh, and Teleni, don't do a Falun Gong in China.
THE LATEST FROM C4.5. Their reporting could be improving. In a recent posting their unsubstantiated rumours are no longer stated as facts from usually reliable sources. Now they have "tips." They surprised themselves with the last one — "One of the tips given to Coupfourpointfive in the past two days has eventuated... " Teleni has been made Ambassador to China. But they sought "confirmation" before publishing it. "We were unable to run it then but its confirmation today, suggests other information given to us is also credible." And the other credible information? Lands Minister Netani Sukanaivalu is "gone"; Brigadier Mohammed Aziz is to be sent on leave, and Neumi Leweni will be put in charge of RFMF Nabua." But still no correction of previous false tips, and no further mention of Sada Reddy's "absence from office."
TONGA OKAY BUT NOT FIJI. Concern is apparently growing that Tonga could be headed towards violence as a fragile balance of power is threatened by the country's first democratic elections. Cited are the "emergency powers ..still in place ...after riots in 2006; the King's control and build up of his defence service to use if the 17 candidates elected fail to form a government."
Tongan MP and former police minister Clive Edwards says the new MPs needed to exercise caution. If they [the politicians] don't go along as expected, the army may be used. Election candidate and Hawaii-based Pacific Islands Development Programme director Dr Sitiveni Halapua said the country was still technically under military rule. Groups had to get permission for any political gathering and a group of church leaders was not allowed to march to pray for the election, which showed, Halapua said, "the power play and the restrictions". -- Based on a Stuff article.
While one may be surprised that Australia and NZ did not impose travel bans years ago, it is to be hoped they will not repeat their Fiji mistake if the present situation does not unravel as they wish.
SOLOMONS TO HOST MSG MEETING. Solomon Islands PM Danny Philip will host a special Melanesian Spearhead Group meeting on December 15 which will see the transfer of the chairmanship from Vanuatu to Fiji in a traditional reconciliation ceremony.This is likely to involve traditional chiefs from both countries.Mr Philip said his government is honoured to host the event upon request from the current MSG Chair, Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei.He said engagement with Fiji is one of his government’s policies and the MSG meeting is in line with his views on approaching the Fiji issue.
SECT CHILDREN START SCHOOL. Forty years ago a sect leader in Vatukacevaceva village to the north of the Nakauvadra mountains, the legendary habitat of ancient Fijian gods, founded the Kadrala Church which did not allow children to go to school. This must have been known to the education authorities. The village is only ten kilometres down the road from Rakiraki but it was not until a few weeks ago that government stepped in and banned the church from operating because members' children were not allowed to attend school.The village Turaga ni Koro said, "The church disbanded after talks with Government officials and it is now no longer in existence. All the children are now in school and the members are actively involved in village work." This also is part of the Roadmap.
CANE PRODUCTION DOWN. In the first four months of the crushing season (June — September) cane production fell 9.1% and sugar production 13.9% compared with the same period last year. Crushing for the 2010 season ends at Penang (Rakiraki) Mull on the 19th and the Lautoka Mill on the 25th of this month. The date for Labasa has not yet been determined.
IMF SHOWS CONFIDENCE IN GOVERNMENT REFORM PLANS.The International Monetary Fund has shown confidence in Fiji’s ability to meet most of its reform programs without the Stand By Arrangement Loan.The IMF team led by Jonathan Dunn applauded the initiative of the government to implement certain changes but urged Government to remove price controls, saying that while the idea "is notable, it is not an effective means of reaching those that really need the assistance." He also thought they would drive investors away.
Minimum interference by government in the economy is part of the IMF ideology, and if the controls were universally applied they could deter investors. But the controls are limited to basic needs items and they are arrived at after extensive discussions with importers, wholesalers and retailers. I would see this as healthy government-private sector interaction. Mr Dunn would have been more helpful had he pointed to more effective strategies to assist the poor and low paid working people.
PRICE CONTROL ANOMALIES which handicap some local manufacturers will be addressed soon. Flour Mills of Fiji representative Ram Bajeet told a recent forum that the price controls resulted in the manufacturer getting a negative margin whereas the retail trade get a positive margin. "There are those who import and sell here, and they would get a high margin whereas those that bring unprocessed products, process them here and sell them here would receive a negative margin.” Commerce Minister Sayed-Khaiyum agreed and said the matter would be referred to the Commerce Commission.
Big fleas have little fleas upon their backs to bite 'em,
And little fleas have lesser fleas, and so ad infinitum.
"According to highly reliable sources inside the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Reddy had allegedly transferred thousands of dollars to his private bank account in New Zealand last year, shortly before he devalued the valueless Fijian dollar ... More information as we get it." I don't know about the transfer allegation but he's presently on holiday in New Zealand where he has permanent residence and obligations to meet. So I'd expect him to be transferring money on a regular basis." Over to you Victor and Michael. I hope you will confirm or correct the information as you get it. If you accept bets, I'd be happy to be paid in "valueless Fijian dollars." Oh, and Teleni, don't do a Falun Gong in China.
THE LATEST FROM C4.5. Their reporting could be improving. In a recent posting their unsubstantiated rumours are no longer stated as facts from usually reliable sources. Now they have "tips." They surprised themselves with the last one — "One of the tips given to Coupfourpointfive in the past two days has eventuated... " Teleni has been made Ambassador to China. But they sought "confirmation" before publishing it. "We were unable to run it then but its confirmation today, suggests other information given to us is also credible." And the other credible information? Lands Minister Netani Sukanaivalu is "gone"; Brigadier Mohammed Aziz is to be sent on leave, and Neumi Leweni will be put in charge of RFMF Nabua." But still no correction of previous false tips, and no further mention of Sada Reddy's "absence from office."
TONGA OKAY BUT NOT FIJI. Concern is apparently growing that Tonga could be headed towards violence as a fragile balance of power is threatened by the country's first democratic elections. Cited are the "emergency powers ..still in place ...after riots in 2006; the King's control and build up of his defence service to use if the 17 candidates elected fail to form a government."
Tongan MP and former police minister Clive Edwards says the new MPs needed to exercise caution. If they [the politicians] don't go along as expected, the army may be used. Election candidate and Hawaii-based Pacific Islands Development Programme director Dr Sitiveni Halapua said the country was still technically under military rule. Groups had to get permission for any political gathering and a group of church leaders was not allowed to march to pray for the election, which showed, Halapua said, "the power play and the restrictions". -- Based on a Stuff article.
While one may be surprised that Australia and NZ did not impose travel bans years ago, it is to be hoped they will not repeat their Fiji mistake if the present situation does not unravel as they wish.
SOLOMONS TO HOST MSG MEETING. Solomon Islands PM Danny Philip will host a special Melanesian Spearhead Group meeting on December 15 which will see the transfer of the chairmanship from Vanuatu to Fiji in a traditional reconciliation ceremony.This is likely to involve traditional chiefs from both countries.Mr Philip said his government is honoured to host the event upon request from the current MSG Chair, Vanuatu PM Edward Natapei.He said engagement with Fiji is one of his government’s policies and the MSG meeting is in line with his views on approaching the Fiji issue.
SECT CHILDREN START SCHOOL. Forty years ago a sect leader in Vatukacevaceva village to the north of the Nakauvadra mountains, the legendary habitat of ancient Fijian gods, founded the Kadrala Church which did not allow children to go to school. This must have been known to the education authorities. The village is only ten kilometres down the road from Rakiraki but it was not until a few weeks ago that government stepped in and banned the church from operating because members' children were not allowed to attend school.The village Turaga ni Koro said, "The church disbanded after talks with Government officials and it is now no longer in existence. All the children are now in school and the members are actively involved in village work." This also is part of the Roadmap.
CANE PRODUCTION DOWN. In the first four months of the crushing season (June — September) cane production fell 9.1% and sugar production 13.9% compared with the same period last year. Crushing for the 2010 season ends at Penang (Rakiraki) Mull on the 19th and the Lautoka Mill on the 25th of this month. The date for Labasa has not yet been determined.
IMF SHOWS CONFIDENCE IN GOVERNMENT REFORM PLANS.The International Monetary Fund has shown confidence in Fiji’s ability to meet most of its reform programs without the Stand By Arrangement Loan.The IMF team led by Jonathan Dunn applauded the initiative of the government to implement certain changes but urged Government to remove price controls, saying that while the idea "is notable, it is not an effective means of reaching those that really need the assistance." He also thought they would drive investors away.
Minimum interference by government in the economy is part of the IMF ideology, and if the controls were universally applied they could deter investors. But the controls are limited to basic needs items and they are arrived at after extensive discussions with importers, wholesalers and retailers. I would see this as healthy government-private sector interaction. Mr Dunn would have been more helpful had he pointed to more effective strategies to assist the poor and low paid working people.
PRICE CONTROL ANOMALIES which handicap some local manufacturers will be addressed soon. Flour Mills of Fiji representative Ram Bajeet told a recent forum that the price controls resulted in the manufacturer getting a negative margin whereas the retail trade get a positive margin. "There are those who import and sell here, and they would get a high margin whereas those that bring unprocessed products, process them here and sell them here would receive a negative margin.” Commerce Minister Sayed-Khaiyum agreed and said the matter would be referred to the Commerce Commission.
Friday, 5 November 2010
Rakiraki, Land Leases, Fiji's Prisons, US Presence, Samoa Spat, EU and Sugar, Bruce Hill's "Viliame", Pacific Eye Clinic
ALL PART OF THE ROADMAP: RAKIRAKI A NEW TOURIST DESTINATION? Recently gazetted a town, Rakiraki in Viti Levu's Northeast, aims at becoming a tourist destination, according to Town Council interim administrator, Ms Seini Vunivutu-Raiko. And it could well be when improvements to Kings Road are completed. Rakiraki is about half way between Nadi and Suva on Kings Road, and a convenient stopover spot for a round-the-island tour or for visits to the nearby island of Nananu-i-Ra and other homely tourist resorts. The town is the site of Fiji's smallest sugar mill, Penang.
Ms Vunivutu-Raiko says roads in the town will be improved next year at a cost of $100,000 and a special zone for tourism is being created on the town fringes. Consultations between the town, the Penang Mill and the Ra Chamber of Commerce should see other attractions to the package that resorts and hotels offer. When the town's 5,000 people and the population of its hinterland are taken together, Fiji's two major races are equally represented in the area, and this also has considerable tourism potential. -- Based on 2010 No:1808/MOI.
LAND LEASE REFORMS. The Strategic Framework for Change Coordinating Office is now focusing on land reforms to ensure a win-win situation and equal benefits for both landlord and tenants. Click here.
NZ AND FIJI PRISONS. Hamilton Samuels worked in NZ prisons for 24 years. Visiting Fiji for the Marist Old Boys Reunion recently he said he was impressed with the Yellow Ribbon (forgiveness and second chance) programme for ex-offenders, the interaction of prison staff and prisoners (in New Zealand, we were not allowed to talk or shake hands with the prisoners) and the vocational and rehabilitative emphasis in Fiji's prisons. Click here for more information on the Yellow Ribbon Programme.
VIEWS ON US HEIGHTENED PRESENCE IN FIJI. I said "US involvement may prompt the New Zealand government to change its actions on Fiji, but these changes are likely to be mostly hidden from view and only evident over time. Nothing is going to happen suddenly or dramatically. New Zealand has dug itself a deep hole with its well meaning but ill-advised policies on Fiji, and it will take quite a time to dig itself out.” Click here.
SAMOA'S TSUNAMI MONEY.Questions raised by NZTV presenter John Campbell about missing aid money could lead to legal action by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. NZ Foreign Minister McCully is satisfied all the money was spent wisely and doesn't want to know any more about it. It cannot escape notice that Tuilaepa is a strong supporter of NZ's position on Fiji and has constantly taken swipes at Bainimarama for his presumed abuse of power.
EU AND SUGAR. The $4.7 million EU fund allocation for the 2007/2008 cane planting program is expected to be fully utilized by the FSC by the end of the year.The balance of $500,000 from this allocation has now been given to the FSC and no further grant is expected from the EU after to the political situation.
The $4.2 million used so far has not been so fruitful as hoped, due to bad weather and the effects of cyclones over the last three years. The allocation of $6 million by Government ($1,000 per hectare) for the cane planting programme has helped growers get through this year.
PM BLAMES DIRTY POLITICS FOR SUGAR PLIGHT. Click here.
ON "By Bruce Hill For Radio Australia." Interviewed by Bruce Hill, "Viliame" says he fears for his life but then says if he's sent back to Fiji it's torture and prison, which if true is bad enough but it's not death. So he's become an overstayer dodging Australian authorities — and with the extra publicity from the ABC programme he's probably improved his chances of being allowed to stay in Australia.
His story started a week or so back when Bruce interviewed him along with two others about ethnic Fijians wanting protection visas. Viliame says people in Fiji would recognize his voice from this programme, and he's been told military officials had called his Fiji phone number and asked if he was at home. But PS for Information, Sharon Smith Johns, said no-one knows who he is or even cares. "We are simply not concerned with a handful of people in Australia who are seeking asylum or refugee status or whatever it might be," she says."We have bigger things to get on with. There is no persecution."
So we have Viliame stupidly airing his views on an ABC programme, knowing full well that his voice would be recognized and — if he believes himself — that he would be in serious trouble in Fiji for speaking out against the Government there. And we have a callous Bruce Hill who interviewed him twice despite the fact that the consequences could — if he believes Viliame — be torture, imprisonment or even death.
Meanwhile, hundreds of the de facto government's opponents, including deposed PM Laisenia Qarase and others far better known than "Viliame", walk free on the streets of Suva.
Bruce, if you persist in broadcasting this sort of unsubstantiated nonsense, I'll have to conclude you are not as even-handed as you claim. Try balancing this report with something more substantial about Fiji. How about the following item for starters:
FIJI'S PACIFIC EYE CLINIC AWAITS OPENING. The Ministry of Health is optimistic that the new Pacific Eye Centre will open on November 30th as planned. The facility (which cost US$1.5 million was built with support from the Australian and New Zealand Governments and the Fiji School of Medicine) is a first for the South Pacific. The clinic will have state of the art equipment, and will be available for over eight million people in the Pacific region, many of whom are struggling with eyesight problems, or battle blindness on a daily basis, often because of diabetes. Specialists in the field of optometrics will conduct training at the Centre and so start to address the region's chronic shortage of eye specialists. -- Based on 2010, No:1832/MOI.
Thursday, 21 October 2010
Good News from Cakaudrove, SFO Threatens NZ Journalists, EU's €, Bruce Hill, Usaia's FDFM and Me
Map from Walsh: Fiji: An Encyclopaedic Atlas, 2006, USP.
This, in my view, constitutes a major change in the Fiji political scene and offers hope of early reconciliations and faster progress with the reforms leading to the 2014 elections. Its significance is confirmed by the response of Sai Lealea, a popular anti-goverment blogger, on his blog Fiji Coup 2006. He writes from Wellington:
"Coming from my paramount chief, this is indeed a monumental decision. It is one I will have to consider in terms of my position against the current illegal regime in Fiji, if indeed it is confirmed as a statement from the Tui Cakau ... I have been heavily guided in my opposition to the illegal takeover of the government of Fiji in 2006, by the principled stance taken by the chiefs of Fiji and the Great Council of Chiefs ... In the event the Tui Cakau's call to the people of Cakaudrove to support the current regime's initiatives is confirmed, I will be reconsidering my current stance in line with my paramount chief's direction. In such a case, I will be emboldened by the fact that his call is for supporting the initiatives currently implemented to benefit the people of Cakaudrove, especially those greatly in need of assistance, and those who contribute to the coffers of government through taxes."
Ratu Naiqama said this was a new beginning for the people of Cakaudrove and he hoped there would be widespread support for whatever decision was made. He said development efforts undertaken by the Government continued to lift the standards of living of the people [and] he had never heard of Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama trying to stop the assistance to his people. The latter remark is especially significant because overseas anti-government critics had claimed Government development moneys were only being spent in rural areas loyal to government, or used as bribes to win over areas with uncertain support.
The Roko Tui Cakaudrove Ro Aca Mataitini said the two-day meeting would ensure that the people embrace the reforms outlined in the People's Charter for Peace and Progress. The Government would always respect the Vanua and in return the Government hoped the Vanua would do the same. He said the people of Cakaudrove needed to open their hearts and accept the changes that were currently in place. After the two day meeting which ends today, the Tui Cakau, Provincial Council Chairman Emitai Boladuadua and the Roko Tui Cakaudrove will make an appointment to meet the Prime Minister. For the FijiVillage account, click here.
I DIDN'T KNOW THIS. Our media raised hell about the Fiji Media Decree. What it didn't tell us was that the Serious Fraud Office Act 1990 gives the SFO powers to execute search warrants on media offices and to charge journalists who attempt to "obstruct investigations" with imprisonment for 12 months or a fine of up to $15,000; with publishers facing a $40,000 fine. I only found out because of "Sarah's" comment on yesterday's posting. Had we known this when the international media was calling the Fiji Media Decree "draconian" we would have been in a better position to form an informed opinion. Source: Scoop.
EU ASKED TO RECONSIDER ITS STANCE. EU Ambassador Peceli Vocea has requested the EU to relax its stance on Fiji. EU suspended assistance amounts to over €24 million in sugar subsidies (and would do This means withholding development aid worth about 30 million euros ($44 million) and subsidy payments to sugar farmers amounting to 115 million euros ($169).
TRYING TO BE AN IMPARTIAL JOURNALIST. Bruce Hill rang me after my postings (19 October) which suggested a lack of balance in his interviews with Rev Yakabi and Usaia Waqatairewa, and I thank him for that. I think he genuinely tries to be impartial but his choice of topics and those interviewed indicate just how difficult it is to modify the internalised positions we grow up with.
Bruce thinks democracy is the best system of government and has no sympathy for those who overthrown democratic governments. I agree. But I doubt Fiji under Qarase was a democratic government and I think Bainimarama is just as genuine as Bruce in wanting a democratic government. Bruce thinks some people in Fiji would not talk to him because they were afraid but it is just as possible they are tired of answering the same loaded, anti-government questions. I suggested he ask people what questions they would like to be asked, and thought he would get a better response with this approach.
Bruce knew little about Usaia Waqatairewa and the FDFM but thought they represented a significant number of emigré Fijians. He cited their recent meeting which drew people from all over Australia. My information is that they struggled to get 200 people to the meeting and those attending were exclusively ethnic Fijians.
In the course of the conversation Bruce directed me to his earlier interview with three ethnic Fijian SDL supporters who had been declined refugee status in Australia. The abuses they cited were in 2007 and towards the end of the programme the Australian authorities said they had no information to support claims of ongoing abuses.
Here is the link to Bruce's programme. His interview is fair but why the choice of topic and informants, and the late denial by Australian authorities?
Monday, 4 October 2010
China Rolls On, EU Rolls Back, Chaudhry, Tiger Woods, Some Hard Questions on the Media
WELCOME TO OCTOBER AND A NEW WEEK.There are several new features in the right sidebar this week: a new Quote for the Week (that the PM should recognize) and three videos-- two patriotic songs and an an old interview with 'the Man.' The Countdown clock shows there are still about 1,440 days to the elections. You should also check out the Weekend Reading if you missed it. Your comments, of course, are welcome as usual but no more anonymous comments, please, if you wish to have them published.
PERSONAL ATTACKS AND RACISM. In making your comments, remember that while criticizing a person's statements or known position is a perfectly acceptable means of debate, attacking the person and not their statement, is not. Similarly criticizing someone who happens to be of a different race or culture is not racism, but attacking the person because he or she is of that race or culture, and writing stereotypal derogatory remarks about the person's race or culture, most definitely is.
CHINA'S AMBASSADOR Han Zhiqiang said he appreciates Fiji's adherence to the one-China policy and support for their country's reunification process. Addressing the reception last Wednesday to mark the 61st anniversary of the founding of the PRC, Han said China supports Fiji's economic and social progress and is willing to provide assistance to Fiji without political conditions.
"Urgent disaster relief donation after cyclones last year, Chinese government scholarships, on-going projects like Navua Hospital and low-cost housing are all examples of China's helping hands toward Fiji," he said. During the first half of 2010, nearly 8,000 Chinese tourists visited Fiji,an increase of 32% on 2009.
EU: "LACK OF PROGRESS." The European Union, as expected, has extended its sanctions against Fiji for another six months "in order to assist [sic!] the country's return to democracy, respect of human rights and the rule of law." It is unclear how the suspension of EU money to assist the ailing sugar industry and the thousands of Fiji citizens affected will benefit from this ongoing action that has seen the cancellation of sugar allowances, to which Fiji is entitled, since 2007 and no new funds from the 10th European development fund. Ordinary Fijians, one suspects, are far more concerned about the "fundamental right" to work and earn enough to support their families that the supposed absence of "fundamental freedoms" used by the EU to explain its actions.
There is one concession: "Given the deteriorating economic and social situation and in particular a significant increase in poverty, the EU is currently examining possibilities for direct support to vulnerable populations, not channelled through the Fijian government." In other words, they will help ameliorate a situation that they have helped cause. It's a help, of course, but direct assistance to the sugar industry would help far more. And if it went via government, what harm is there in this? The military won't be hitting heads with candy sticks.
Some would see their action as international solidarity against a rogue regime; others a string of carriages (Forum, EU,Commonwealth) pulled by Australian and New Zealand trains on a collision course with Fijian livelihoods.
Hardly had I typed this, than Kevin Rudd's office came out with, "Australia, along with New Zealand and the rest of the international community, remains resolute in calling for a prompt return to democracy and the rule of law in Fiji." There's no doubt about which is the train and which the "rest." There's little doubt also, if this attitude persists, that it will do irretrievable damage to Australia's reputation in Fiji. Unless, of course, Australia can engineer a counter-coup!
CHAUDHRY IN CUSTARDY. Sorry for the pun but he does seem to welcome confrontation. Reports in the "heavily censored" Fiji media indicate that former PM and FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry spent the weekend in custody after being arrested on Friday for holding a public meeting in Rakiraki without a permit, which is a breach of the Public Emergency Regulations. He is expected to appear in court today.
THE TIGER WOODS STORY AND FIJI. "The massive disillusionment over Tiger Woods's womanising is based on the widespread error that information conveyed through the media, often shaped by stars and their handlers, is reliable and comprehensive." -- NZ Listener 2-8 October, p.22. Read on ...
Speaking at 2010 Pacific Islands Media Association (PIMA) conference in Auckland on Friday, the keynote speaker, well known and respected Tongan media publisher and media freedom activist 'Eakalafi Moala, said, "Press freedom in the Pacific Islands is under constant threat" while "New Zealand journalists ..took freedom of the press for granted."
He said threats to Pacific media freedom were due not only to "government blocking" (he was especially critical of Fiji's Media Decree, where, incidentally, the Fiji Broadcasting Commission reported his speech!) but also to "the social and cultural fabric of the local community" that accepted Government actions less critically than in Western countries. "Media freedom," he said, "operated more easily within a Western-educated social structure and conduct.”
Taken at face value, most would agree. But I wonder. Is it as straightforward as this? In an ideal world, would press freedom always prevail? Or, to play devil's advocate, should it ever prevail? What, exactly, is media freedom? Can a case be made that restrictions should be placed on the media in some situations? What are those situations? 'Eakalafi talked of cultural constraints in the Pacific but are there no cultural or other constraints in Western societies?
How free, really, is the New Zealand media? Does it truly provide access to information the people need to know? Who decides what we will read and hear and how it is presented? Who decides the news? I'm reluctant to write about Fiji again in this context, but when did the NZ media last report a contrary view on the situation there? How have they helped to explain what is happening, and why? How do they decide who to interview? Do they ever verify their stories?
One can also ask what is meant by information when so much of what we see is sensationalism and trivia. What real balance exists in their coverage? Even media people ask what's happened to investigative journalism.We've never before had so much access to information, but we've also never has access to so much wrong or useless information. Sometimes I ask, do I know more about any matter of consequence because of the media, or am I merely more misinformed? And then I ask myself about the supposed role of the media in a democracy and what it actually does.
Who really is this freedom for? I am not an advertiser or a shareholder in the media. I don't vote for their Boards or sit on their appointment committees. I have no say whatsoever in what they choose to publish or not to publish. I am not part of the media or any other establishment. I cannot vote them out with a letter to the editor or an appeal to the Broadcasting Standards Authority.
When it comes down to the hard questions, we should ask how significantly different are the NZ and Pacific media? Different masters, different circumstances and different stories, but I suspect that whoever pays the piper still calls the tune. My only freedom is the choice to switch off the TV and radio and not read the newspapers. Sometimes, not always of course, I wonder how they dare claim a special, elevated place -- the Fourth Estate -- in a democracy when their power is more akin to a "dictatorship of the publishitariat."
Freedom of the media, by the media, for the media? An overstatement, perhaps. But by how much?
PERSONAL ATTACKS AND RACISM. In making your comments, remember that while criticizing a person's statements or known position is a perfectly acceptable means of debate, attacking the person and not their statement, is not. Similarly criticizing someone who happens to be of a different race or culture is not racism, but attacking the person because he or she is of that race or culture, and writing stereotypal derogatory remarks about the person's race or culture, most definitely is.
"Urgent disaster relief donation after cyclones last year, Chinese government scholarships, on-going projects like Navua Hospital and low-cost housing are all examples of China's helping hands toward Fiji," he said. During the first half of 2010, nearly 8,000 Chinese tourists visited Fiji,an increase of 32% on 2009.
There is one concession: "Given the deteriorating economic and social situation and in particular a significant increase in poverty, the EU is currently examining possibilities for direct support to vulnerable populations, not channelled through the Fijian government." In other words, they will help ameliorate a situation that they have helped cause. It's a help, of course, but direct assistance to the sugar industry would help far more. And if it went via government, what harm is there in this? The military won't be hitting heads with candy sticks.
Some would see their action as international solidarity against a rogue regime; others a string of carriages (Forum, EU,Commonwealth) pulled by Australian and New Zealand trains on a collision course with Fijian livelihoods.
Hardly had I typed this, than Kevin Rudd's office came out with, "Australia, along with New Zealand and the rest of the international community, remains resolute in calling for a prompt return to democracy and the rule of law in Fiji." There's no doubt about which is the train and which the "rest." There's little doubt also, if this attitude persists, that it will do irretrievable damage to Australia's reputation in Fiji. Unless, of course, Australia can engineer a counter-coup!
CHAUDHRY IN CUSTARDY. Sorry for the pun but he does seem to welcome confrontation. Reports in the "heavily censored" Fiji media indicate that former PM and FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry spent the weekend in custody after being arrested on Friday for holding a public meeting in Rakiraki without a permit, which is a breach of the Public Emergency Regulations. He is expected to appear in court today.
THE TIGER WOODS STORY AND FIJI. "The massive disillusionment over Tiger Woods's womanising is based on the widespread error that information conveyed through the media, often shaped by stars and their handlers, is reliable and comprehensive." -- NZ Listener 2-8 October, p.22. Read on ...The Media, Some Hard Questions and the
'Dictatorship of the Publishitariat'
'Dictatorship of the Publishitariat'
Playing Devil's Advocate
Crosbie Walsh
He said threats to Pacific media freedom were due not only to "government blocking" (he was especially critical of Fiji's Media Decree, where, incidentally, the Fiji Broadcasting Commission reported his speech!) but also to "the social and cultural fabric of the local community" that accepted Government actions less critically than in Western countries. "Media freedom," he said, "operated more easily within a Western-educated social structure and conduct.”
Taken at face value, most would agree. But I wonder. Is it as straightforward as this? In an ideal world, would press freedom always prevail? Or, to play devil's advocate, should it ever prevail? What, exactly, is media freedom? Can a case be made that restrictions should be placed on the media in some situations? What are those situations? 'Eakalafi talked of cultural constraints in the Pacific but are there no cultural or other constraints in Western societies?
How free, really, is the New Zealand media? Does it truly provide access to information the people need to know? Who decides what we will read and hear and how it is presented? Who decides the news? I'm reluctant to write about Fiji again in this context, but when did the NZ media last report a contrary view on the situation there? How have they helped to explain what is happening, and why? How do they decide who to interview? Do they ever verify their stories?
One can also ask what is meant by information when so much of what we see is sensationalism and trivia. What real balance exists in their coverage? Even media people ask what's happened to investigative journalism.We've never before had so much access to information, but we've also never has access to so much wrong or useless information. Sometimes I ask, do I know more about any matter of consequence because of the media, or am I merely more misinformed? And then I ask myself about the supposed role of the media in a democracy and what it actually does.
Who really is this freedom for? I am not an advertiser or a shareholder in the media. I don't vote for their Boards or sit on their appointment committees. I have no say whatsoever in what they choose to publish or not to publish. I am not part of the media or any other establishment. I cannot vote them out with a letter to the editor or an appeal to the Broadcasting Standards Authority.
When it comes down to the hard questions, we should ask how significantly different are the NZ and Pacific media? Different masters, different circumstances and different stories, but I suspect that whoever pays the piper still calls the tune. My only freedom is the choice to switch off the TV and radio and not read the newspapers. Sometimes, not always of course, I wonder how they dare claim a special, elevated place -- the Fourth Estate -- in a democracy when their power is more akin to a "dictatorship of the publishitariat."
Freedom of the media, by the media, for the media? An overstatement, perhaps. But by how much?
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Beyond the Gibberish, Possible Crusher Sabotage
Commonwealth Gibberish
Opinion
Crosbie Walsh
Opinion
Crosbie Walsh
Photo: See footnote 3, below.
But Fiji has made it abundantly clear -- for over a year now -- that elections would not be held until 2014, and it has given its reasons. The most that can be hoped for is the lifting of the Public Emergency Regulations, increased civilian involvement in government and more dialogue, with political dialogue starting before 2012. Why didn't CMAG push for this approach?
The CMAG "reaffirmed their solidarity with the people of Fiji." They said they were ready "to assist Fiji in appropriate ways on its path back to constitutional democracy, consistent with Commonwealth values and principles.” And they reaffirmed the Commonwealth's "continued efforts to engage in constructive dialogue with the Fiji government and other stakeholders, particularly through the Secretary-General’s Special Representative [Sir Paul Reeves], and encouraged such engagement in good faith to continue." Sounds reasonable but there was no moderation of positions since the last time they met.
What does this gobbledygook² mean?
The CMAG thinks the situation in Fiji before the 2006 Coup was an unimpaired democracy. They do not recognize any of the worthwhile policies and actions of the Fiji Government. I do not know what they mean by "solidarity with the people of Fiji." It could mean anything, or nothing. They think an early election is the way to resolve Fiji's deep-seated problems. They will only assist when elections loom. They will not relax sanctions or urge others to do so, even though they are hurting ordinary people in Fiji and making economic recovery more difficult. They will continue to follow the lead of Forum countries,led by Australia and New Zealand. There is absolutely nothing new in their statement. But to assume, as some readers have, that this was a statement separate from that of the EU that also continued its sanctions last week, is, I think, a little naive. All such statements are clearly taking their lead from the Pacific Forum that is taking its lead from Australia and New Zealand. Hear one and you have heard them all. The only country slightly out of step is the US where Hillary Clinton has signalled she wants fresh engagement with Fiji.³
Beyond Gibberish: What could have been said?
After acknowledging the "positive" legislation passed in recent months and logistical work being done by the Elections Office, CMAG could have defined more precisely what they mean by "progress" with a proposed timetable (and inducements) for each major step. For example, the immediate lifting of PER, a larger and more representative Strategic Framework for Change office, more civilian representation in Government at all levels, the commencement and conclusion of dialogue on the Constitution and electoral reform, more open discussion in the media about these issues, and finally the elections.
And what could Fiji have done? Fiji could have provided the Roadmap timetable and said that with overseas legal, advisory and financial assistance --and the lifting or progressive easing of sanctions-- Fiji should be able to bring everything forward six months (and electoral dialogue 12 months). This would result in major political dialogue starting late next year -- with public informal discussions earlier -- and the elections being held in late 2013 or early 2014.
The art of diplomacy is compromise but it takes two to tango.
¹The CMAG comprises Australia, Bangladesh, Ghana (chair), Jamaica, Maldives, Namibia, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu.
² Gobbledygook=bureaucratese, a kind of doublespeak. Doublespeak=meaningless speech that consists of nonsense syllables mixed with intelligible words; gibberish.
³ United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has told Fiji's Foreign Affairs Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola that the US wants dialogue and partnership with Fiji.
CRUSH SABOTAGE? With mill boilers at Rarawai, Labasa and Lautoka sugar mills all breaking down within the span of only a few weeks, Permanent Secretary for Sugar Manasa Vaniqi is wondering whether sabotage is involved. He thinks the breakdowns are too common to be a consequence of old machinery.
“We are not blaming anyone but based on the reports that we have been receiving there seems to be a consistent breakdown on that particular area of the boiler. And people are not fixing it. And we are going down to the bottom of that one, the investigation is ongoing and we are waiting for the report.” The mill engineering upgrade programmes are achieving nothing.
Friday, 6 August 2010
Forum Out, EU Questions its Relevance; ACP Out: Who Did It? Thinking ... Not Sleeping: From Total Silence to Mature Debate?
WEEKEND READING. Allen Lockington's column; an Indo-Fijian's impressions on his home visit; Book Review. Michael Field's Swimming with Sharks, and in "Fiji and its Dictator" Chris Griffin, an Australian social anthropologist now living in Fiji, challenges ABC Rowan Callick's views published in last week's Weekend Australian. A veritable feast of comment and observation. Enjoy.
FIJI STILL OUT OF FORUM. The announcement causes no surprise and no further comment is necessary. Silence is the most perfect expression of scorn. -- George Bernard Shaw.
FORUM: EU SAYS FIJI MISSED. Fiji's absence from the Forum has prompted questions about its relevance and ability to help lift Pacific islanders out of poverty. The latest question comes from Christian Leffler, head of the EU Forum delegation.
"When Fiji is not participating fully in regional cooperation," he said, "as witnessed by their absence from this Pacific Islands Forum meeting, that also weakens the possibility to take the region forward. Fiji is an important regional actor in the Pacific because of its traditional role, because of its geographic location, because it is one of the larger islands in population and economy."
WHO TOLD FIJI TO LEAVE? With both the ACP General Secretary and the EU delegation in the Pacific supporting Fiji's claim that it is a full participatory and financial member of the Pacific ACP, who stopped Fiji's attended at the ACP meeting in Vila? It is thought only "one or two" countries opposed Fiji's inclusion. Who were they? This was a "mickey mouse" decision that lacked legality. Someone owes Fiji an apology and a full refund of expenses. A Cabinet Minister and a Permanent Secretary had better things to do in Fiji than spend two fruitless days in Vanuatu. I hope Fiji will take the matter up with the appropriate higher authorities.
RUPERT MURDOCH'S NEWS LTD profit for the full-year was $US2.5 billion.
Thinking ... Not Sleeping's series of postings over the last week sparked valuable discussion from readers, and, as previously indicated, I shall post the whole series on the companion blog Na Sala Cavu (see right side bar) to encourage ongoing comments from readers. The following is Thinking's response to a challenge from another reader in his last posting.
" A great thing about this site is we can agree/disagree/debate/learn. This is all absent in Fiji at present as you know. I assume you also live in Fiji and we are both using pseudonym for similar reasons. For me, my comments no matter how carefully I tried to put then would definitely land me in trouble if I put my name to them. As I have mentioned earlier this creates a serious issue going forward. We won’t be able to move from total silencing to mature debate over night.
"How will the military react for example in 2013 when perhaps a new political party starts to campaign… with a genuine platform and promise to restructure the military and apply the same checks and balances put in place by the military itself on government. For example audits, public inquiries, restructuring and reduction in numbers. At this time the military would have had seven years of only hearing exactly what they want to hear. They will be feeling 100% indestructible…how will they react to this legitimate new parties platform ?
"I disagree with Croz on many things and he, I am sure disagrees with me. I see what he is trying to do as valuable (well done Croz) and have learnt from reading his and his readers' points of view. I’ve altered my views on some things as a result and feel more open to alternate views even when I think them wrong initially. In fact that’s why I decided to write my long comments because I was not accepting the reality of Fiji right now and being way too negative. I was still critical/blunt but Croz chose to publish my thoughts all the same.
I think this freedom to debate would go a long way to healing in Fiji and produce better outcomes. Being able to see real people's names next to real debate would enrich it further. In fact people would probably start to ignore the ‘rubbish’ out there because it would be the only stuff that remains anonymous."
Note: The statue, for readers who do not know, is the "Thinker" by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) who said:
What makes my Thinker think is that he thinks not only with his brain, with his knitted brow, his distended nostrils and compressed lips, but with every muscle of his arms, back, and legs, with his clenched fist and gripping toes.On a lighter note, a good Fijian friend shared this joke about the statue: A little child stood looking at the statue with his mother who explained it was a famous statue of the Thinker. "What's he thinking about?" the child asked. "I don't know!" she replied. "Maybe he's trying to remember where he left his clothes," said the child.
Don't forget to check out the weekend reading.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
