Pacific Region News

Solomons called responsible for Bougainville effects

HONIARA, Solomon Islands –- Papua New Guinea Ambassador Winis Ponate has told the Solomon Islands government that it has only itself to blame for the alleged negative effects of the 10-year secessionist crisis in neighboring Bougainville.

Earlier, Solomons Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulafa’alu said, “Bougainvillians have taught our people how to make homemade guns, distill home brew alcoholic drinks and to make, smoke and grow marijuana.”

He said the new social problems emerged only after Bougainvilleans fled the conflict for the Shortland Islands and other Solomon areas.

Ponate’s response was that the problems are the direct result of the Solomons not supporting calls by Port Moresby to help curb the Bougainville conflict.

Cracks on volcanic Ambrym Island to be examined

PORT VILA, Vanuatu -– Government geologists are being sent to Ambrym Island to investigate large earthen cracks found after last month’s earthquake on neighboring Pentecost Island. The earthquake, followed by a tsunami, killed 10 people and left hundreds homeless.

Disaster Control Center head John Sese said reports of cracks on three smaller islands in the same area also will be investigated.

Fiji hotels call for lifting of fireworks ban

SUVA, Fiji Islands -– The Fiji Hotel Association has asked the Ministry of Commerce to lift its ban on fireworks, as they are a major part of planned millennium activities.

Fireworks now are temporarily banned, following a death, injuries and damages caused by the use of fireworks during last month’s Hindu Diwali Festival of Lights.

The association forecasts good hotel occupancies during the millennium period, but said guests are anticipating the largest fireworks display in a century.

Taiwan donates $500,000 to Pacific community

SUVA, Fiji Islands -– The government of Taiwan has donated $500,000 to the regional Pacific Community, according to retiring director general Dr. Robert Dun.

The funding, announced by Republic of China diplomatic representative Chi-kun Ning, will support several regional projects. They include the 8th Pacific Arts Festival, which will take place in New Caledonia next year, as well as health improvement and fisheries development projects.

Fiji’s executioner dies

SUVA, Fiji Islands - Fiji’s only known executioner, William Reeves, 91, has died at a local retirement home.

Originally from England, Mr. Reeves was hired by the colonial government as an executioner following World War II, and only worked when there was to be a hanging.

Fiji’s last known execution took place in the early 1960’s.

Former Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, Ratu Inoke Bainimarama, said there was more than one executioner, but “we all took an oath that we’d never reveal the identities of the executioners. I stand by that.”