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Pacific News In Brief For June 25
Samoa - drugs
MPs in Samoa have raised concerns about the rise in drug-related crime.
Loau Keneti Sio raised the issues of methamphetamine importation and escalating youth drug offenses in parliament.
Another MP, Manuleleua Paletasala Tovale, underscored the urgent need for enhanced security measures in light of increasing crime rates.
The Samoa Observer reported these sentiments were echoed by MPs across various constituencies, who collectively stressed the critical need for immediate attention to these issues.
American Samoa - marine
A new marine protected area has been set up in American Samoa covering more than 50 thousand square metres.
Talanei.com reported protected area in Fagasa will be closed for five years to all fishing activity by both village residents and outsiders.
The Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources and the village of Fagasa has signed a cooperative agreement, which provides a co-management approach with the department and the village council.
Fiji - health
Fiji's Valelevu Health Center requires maintenance to improve medical services for almost 60,000 people.
Health Centre Board of Visitors chair Bimlesh Prasad told FBC to accomplish various projects, the board has to look for relevant donors.
He said the government only provides support for capital projects.
But, he said, they are looking forward to the budget announcement on Friday, hoping that it will be beneficial for the health centre.
Samoa - sailors
Six Samoan sailors working on overseas shipping contracts have been sent home prematurely for misconduct, in the space of two months.
Samoa Shipping Services chief exectuvie Tafesilafa'i Ipiniu Filipo said this recurring issue not only reflected poorly on Samoa's maritime workforce, but also jeopardised opportunities for newly graduated seamen.
He said alcohol-fuelled mistakes and decision-making is a main factor.
He told the Samoa Observer the Samoa Shipping Services addresses these issues seriously.
Fiji - forum
Fiji's cabinet has approved the country co-hosting the 2024 Pacific Small Island Development States (SIDS) Solution Forum.
The forum is scheduled for November.
Fiji will co-host it alongside the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.
The SIDS Solutions Forum relates to supporting the achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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