1. A Delicate Geo-political Balance:
The Israeli-Hamas conflict isn’t confined within the borders of the two entities. Instead, it’s a focal point where East meets West, where religious ideologies intertwine with national aspirations. As countries align themselves either in support or opposition to the belligerents, it tests the fabric of our global geo-political tapestry.

2. Geo-strategic Implications:
The Middle East has always been a geo-strategic hotspot located at the nexus of Africa, Asia, and Europe. The Israeli-Hamas conflict further magnifies the region’s significance. The Straits of Tiran, a critical waterway for global trade, is one example of the strategic stakes at play. As tensions escalate, safe passage and regional stability become imperative for all nations.

3. A Ripple in the Global Economy:
The war has not only impacted the lives of millions but has sent shockwaves across the world economy. With the Middle East being a significant energy hub, the conflict poses potential threats to the stability of global oil prices, as exemplified by previous regional conflicts. We’ve seen how turbulence in one region can cascade into a worldwide economic downturn.

Furthermore, as alluded to in recent reports, there are concerns about the war rekindling inflation. This could stall the recovery efforts after the COVID-19 pandemic and affect global economic policies and consumer sentiments.

4. The Need for Global Unity:
Times like this underscore the importance of cohesive international diplomacy. Though geographically distant, the Cook Islands feel the ripples of such conflicts. As global citizens, we must advocate for peace, dialogue, and mutual respect. Stability is paramount for nations like ours dependent on international tourism and trade.

5. A Personal Call for Hope:
I’ve always believed that amidst the darkest storms, there lies an indomitable spirit of hope. This hope drives us forward, urging us to build bridges of understanding and compassion. A resolution can be achieved with concerted global efforts honouring all parties’ rights, aspirations, and histories.

In wrapping up, the Israeli-Hamas conflict is not just a regional affair—it’s a global one. As the Leader of the Opposition in the Cook Islands, I believe in the power of dialogue, understanding, and diplomacy. Through these avenues, we can hope to see a dawn where peace reigns supreme, not just in the Middle East but in every corner of our shared world. Let’s strive for that dawn together.

Meitaki ma’ata

#Photocredit: https://depositphotos.com/photos/war.html

1. Addressing Shipping Challenges:
Rakahanga’s geographical distance from Rarotonga, the center of commerce, poses a significant hurdle due to inconsistent shipping. To overcome this, we must advocate for improved and regular shipping services, explore alternative transportation means, and strengthen local supply chains, ensuring seamless connectivity and access to markets for our local produce.

2. Reversing Depopulation through Economic Opportunities:
The issue of depopulation hampers the island’s potential growth. By creating lucrative and sustainable economic opportunities within the fishing sector, we can incentivize residents to stay and attract former inhabitants to return, fostering a vibrant and thriving community.

3. Embracing Renewable Energy:
Complying with the Cook Islands Government’s Climate Change Policy 2018-2028, transitioning to renewable energy sources is imperative. Escalating diesel costs are straining the Island Councils Budget; hence, investing in sustainable energy solutions will not only mitigate financial stress but also contribute to environmental conservation.

4. Sustainable and Regulated Fishing Practices:
Ensuring the adoption of sustainable fishing methods and stringent regulation of foreign fishing licenses is crucial to preserving our marine biodiversity. This approach safeguards our fish stocks, particularly tuna, from depletion, thereby securing the livelihoods of our local fishermen and the future of Rakahanga’s fishing industry.

5. Diversification and Value Addition:
The development of diversified fish products, such as smoked fish and dried tuna jerky, coupled with investment in processing facilities, can significantly elevate the value of our produce. This diversification ensures increased revenue and enhances the resilience of our local businesses to market fluctuations.

Moving Forward:
In moving forward, addressing these key issues serves as a foundational stepping stone towards the realization of Rakahanga’s potential. Balancing our economic aspirations with our commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being is pivotal. As we navigate the challenges and explore the myriad of opportunities, let us unite in our endeavor to cultivate a sustainable and prosperous future for Rakahanga and the broader Cook Islands.

Our shared vision should be one of resilience, sustainability, and community empowerment. By harnessing the blue wealth of Rakahanga through responsible practices, innovative solutions, and a commitment to our people and environment, we are paving the way for a brighter, greener future for our cherished Cook Islands.

Introduction: Taking the Helm
In a scenario traditionally dominated by government initiatives, I find myself, as the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Tina Browne, steering our first private member’s bill since the 1970s – the Cook Islands Amendment Bill 2023. This unprecedented move marks our unwavering commitment to resolving long-standing issues in land ownership that have, regrettably, been left in abeyance.

Addressing the Specifics: Unravelling the Bill’s Essence
The Amendment Bill 2023 is not an expansive exploration of land law reform but a targeted effort focusing on the narrow yet significant definition of “owner” in the Cook Islands Act 1915. This pivotal initiative was ignited by a High Court decision in 2020, which spotlighted the complexities and hurdles in securing consents for occupation right applications.

Delving into the Details: Understanding the Urgency
I recognize the practical and legal impediments Cook Islanders face in asserting their occupation rights, mainly due to the ambiguous definition of “owner” and the ensuing complications. This amendment aims to dissolve these barriers, offering a more streamlined and achievable path to occupation rights, a necessity especially for our compatriots in the Outer Islands.

Forward-Thinking: Envisioning the Amendment’s Impact
Envisaged with retrospective application, the amendment seeks to safeguard those who have operated under the shadow of a previously misconstrued law. It clarifies the transition of interests following a landowner’s demise and simplifies the identification of landowners. By doing so, we are fostering a clearer, fairer, and more inclusive approach to land ownership.

Unity Beyond Politics: A Shared Aspiration for a Brighter Tomorrow
Initiating this Amendment as the Leader of the Opposition represents more than a mere political act; it embodies our shared aspiration for the future of the Cook Islands. It’s a future where every Cook Islander, regardless of political affiliation, can access and enjoy their land rights unencumbered. I harbor hopes that this Bill serves as a catalyst for continued bipartisan efforts to enact laws that truly resonate with the needs of our islands.

Conclusion: Navigating Towards a Harmonious Future
With the Cook Islands Amendment Bill 2023, I am resolute in addressing a pivotal issue that has constrained the realization of land rights for the people of Cook Islands. As we venture into this groundbreaking territory, I extend a warm invitation to fellow Cook Islanders, stakeholders, and political counterparts to join in constructive discourse and lend their support to this legislative endeavor, together navigating towards a future replete with prosperity and harmony.

Hashtags:
#CookIslandsAmendmentBill2023 #LandOwnershipReform #OppositionsFirstPrivateBill #BipartisanUnity #NavigatingTheFuture #PioneeringProgress

#Photo Credit: Getting Around the Cook Islands

Recently, I had the unique opportunity to represent the Cook Islands at the Third Conference of the Pacific Islands Parliament Group (PIPG) hosted by Tonga’s Legislative Assembly in Nukualofa. This eye-opening experience from 22nd to 24th August 2023 gave me insights into our region’s existential threats and the pivotal role of parliaments.

Climate Change & The Pacific: A Journey from Impacts to Actions

The conference’s theme resonated deeply: “Parliaments, Climate Change and Disasters; From Impacts and Science to Action.” The essence? Recognizing the immediate need to combat climate change, with parliaments being key drivers in this fight.

Our Shared Stewardship of Blue Pacific

Drawing from the Tarahoʻi Declaration 2019, it’s evident that climate change imperils our beautiful Blue Pacific – our oceans are warm, sea levels rise, and extreme weather events threaten our shores. For many, these aren’t just statistics or predictions – they’re lived experiences, particularly for vulnerable groups like women, children, older people, and fishermen.

The Tangible Impact of Climate Change

Recent calamities, including the Hunga Tonga Hunga Tokelau volcanic eruption and the catastrophic cyclones that hit Vanuatu and New Zealand, underscore the looming reality of climate change. The Pacific region is recognized as one of the most disaster-prone globally.

Cutting Through the Science

The science is indisputable. Climate change, propelled by human actions, is having harmful effects on our ecosystems. The IPCC’s latest report paints a bleak future if immediate measures aren’t taken. The Blue Pacific is intrinsically linked to climate change, raising concerns about our maritime boundaries as sea levels rise.

The Role of Parliaments: Bridging the Gap

As governance platforms, parliaments hold the power to enforce impactful climate change policies and ensure governments adhere to international commitments. Our Pacific Island nations have shown significant leadership on the global stage, with Vanuatu pioneering a resolution seeking clarity on international laws regarding climate change.

PIPG Conference Highlights: A Dive into the Program

The program had insightful sessions, notable attendees, and memorable events. From attending church to visiting the sites ravaged by the 2022 Tsunami, every moment left an indelible mark. The presentation by Lord Fakafanua on “Parliaments as Climate Change Champions” was particularly enlightening. Our stay at the Dateline Tanoa Hotel was the perfect backdrop for such a transformative event.

Charting a Way Forward: Recommendations
1. The Cook Islands Parliament should prioritize the insights shared, especially those from Lord Fakafanua.
2. Ensuring our presence at the forthcoming Palau meeting is paramount.
3. It would be beneficial to involve representatives from our northern group islands in future delegations, particularly in light of potential relocations due to climate change.

A Heartfelt Thanks

In closing, my heartfelt thanks go out to the Deputy Clerk and the Cook Islands Parliamentary Services staff for their unflinching support and ensuring our successful participation.

This trip to Tonga was more than just a conference. It was a reminder of our shared responsibilities, the urgency of the situation, and the pivotal role each of us and our institutions play in safeguarding the future of our Blue Pacific.

Let’s confront the uncomfortable truths:
– Premature deaths from NCDs are shifting unpredictably:
– 2016: 24%
– 2017: 22%
– 2018: 20%
– Yet by 2019, an unsettling rise to 26%

Despite the influx of resources and funding to our Ministry of Health, why are these numbers not stabilizing and decreasing? The ambitious target the World Health Organization (WHO) set aims to reduce NCD-associated premature deaths by 25% by 2025. But are we on the right path to meet this goal?

Our healthcare system, already strained, is being burdened further. Local and local interventions necessitating expertise from New Zealand come at a growing cost. Most disturbingly, our men, pillars of our families, remain detached from the pressing urgency of these health warnings. Major threats, ranging from heart disease to diabetes, loom large over our community.

In my position as the Leader of the Opposition, I need a transparent and comprehensive re-evaluation of the strategies and leadership dynamics of the Ministry.

To navigate these challenging waters, I suggest five strategic policy directions:

1. Engage the Community: Cultivate health campaigns that resonate deeply within our communities, paying particular attention to the men and encouraging them to be health ambassadors.

2. Champion Local Nutrition: Partner with nutrition experts to formulate national dietary guidelines. A stronger push for local, wholesome foods can significantly reduce our reliance on processed imports.

3. Health Check-ups for All: A nationwide campaign can ensure that every citizen gets a free annual health screening. Further, families who opt for group check-ups can avail of added incentives.

4. Prioritize Physical Well-being: We can create a culture where physical health is valued and practised early on by embedding robust fitness regimes in educational institutions and workplaces.

5. Re-energize Public Health Regulation: This is crucial. A renewed, more creative perspective on our Public

Health Regulation, supported by incentives, can pave the way for innovative approaches to combat harmful habits while offering avenues of support and counselling.

In conclusion, the surge of NCDs in the Cook Islands is a collective challenge that demands our united action. A blend of innovative, community-centric solutions and a reinforced public health framework can guide our beloved nation towards a brighter, healthier horizon. We owe this to ourselves and to the generations to come.

1. Invest in Infrastructure
We must develop comprehensive irrigation systems, storage facilities, and transportation networks to ensure products can be stored adequately and moved from farms to markets seamlessly.

2. Research and Development
Investing in agricultural R&D will enable us to discover drought-resistant crops, develop sustainable farming methods, and incorporate technology that enhances productivity.

3. Training and Education
Without a knowledgeable workforce, a revitalised agricultural sector remains a distant dream. Specialised agricultural training programs should be set up in collaboration with educational institutions.

4. Financial Support
Small and medium-sized farmers must have access to low-interest loans and grants. We should also explore options for public-private partnerships to invite investment into the sector.

5. Market Access
Creating a direct link between farmers and consumers through farmer’s markets or e-commerce platforms can cut the go-betweens, ensuring higher income for farmers and fresher produce for consumers.

6. Policy Incentives
Tax breaks, subsidies, and other incentives will encourage farming and reduce the cost of local agricultural products, making them more competitive against imports.

7. Comprehensive Legislation
We need laws that support sustainable farming practices, protect local farmers from unfair trade practices, and ensure the safety and quality of local produce.

By focusing on these seven policy decisions, we can build an agriculture sector that is self-sufficient and a significant contributor to our economy. Import substitution isn’t just an economic policy; it’s a commitment to our identity, resilience, and the future prosperity of the Cook Islands.

In unity and foresight, we can cultivate a future where our islands are not merely paradise for tourists but also lush, self-sustaining havens for all Cook Islanders.

Let’s work together to turn this vision into reality.

#PhotoCredit: Alovelyplanet.com

Rugby league, rugby union, netball, soccer – each has carved its niche in our community, providing more than just a game. They offer camaraderie, instil discipline, and showcase our national pride. Visit the BCI Stadium on a match day or the National Sports Arena in Nikao during a tournament, and you’ll witness not just the thrill of the game but also an echo of our collective spirit.

While the zest and zeal surrounding sports are infectious, we must also address the elephant in the room – the mental strain sports can sometimes place on our athletes. The expectations, the drive to excel, the burden of representing one’s nation, and, at times, the physical and mental injuries. Our arenas might not be as grand as those in larger countries, but the weight of responsibility on our athlete’s shoulders is just as significant.

When injuries strike, as they sometimes do in any competitive setting, the Cook Islands has always been prompt in offering medical aid. Be it through local facilities or, in extreme cases, specialized care in New Zealand. We’ve cheered for our stars like Luciana Nicholas and Alex Beddoes as they’ve placed our flag high on international platforms. But how often have we paused to understand the mental toll that an injury, a lost match, or pressure might have placed on them?

The physical aspects of sports injuries are visible, treatable, and, most importantly, spoken about. But the mental scars? Those are often hidden, pushed into the background, masked by a brave face, or overshadowed by the next match or tournament.

Our sports facilities, clubs, and bodies have always been proactive about player safety. Still, it’s high time we expanded this safety net to include mental health support. Mental well-being is as crucial as physical fitness, if not more. An athlete’s mind drives their performance, resilience, and determination.

Moreover, the broader community, not just our athletes, also grapples with mental health issues. The joy, unity, and pride sports bring to our islands can be channelled as a therapeutic tool. Imagine creating community leagues that promote the sport and become platforms for open dialogues on mental health. Places where a lost game is not just about points but also about understanding, resilience, and growth. Where a win is celebrated, but so is the spirit of participation.

In the idyllic setting of the Cook Islands, where sports mirror our society, let’s pledge to make mental health a part of our mainstream discourse. The passion and dedication our community pours into sports can be our beacon. It can guide us in breaking barriers, creating supportive environments, and ensuring that our people, our athletes, and our youth don’t just thrive in the fields and courts but also the game of life.

In our islands, where every goal, try, and point reflects our spirit, let’s ensure our mental well-being scores the highest.

#photocredit:www.cinews.com

As the Leader of the Opposition, I had the privilege to observe and participate in the vibrant gathering of female MPs from across the Pacific at the “Tuākana, Tēina, Whenua, Talanoa” wānanga in Wellington from the 7th to the 9th of August. The experience was nothing short of transformative, and I’d like to share my reflections on this significant event.

A Gathering Unlike Any Other

This was different from your everyday political meeting. The room was alive with energy, intelligence, and a shared sense of purpose transcending national borders. As we sat together – representatives from Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Bougainville, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands, Tokelau, and of course, New Zealand – I could feel the collective aspiration to achieve more.

Workshops with a Twist

The workshops were brilliantly crafted, addressing vital topics such as political acumen, social media savvy, and engagement strategy. What set these sessions apart was the camaraderie and the light-hearted exchanges that peppered severe discussions. Learning while laughing – that’s a recipe for success, I reckon.

A Unifying Leadership

The election of new leadership for the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Pacific region added gravitas to our gathering. It symbolized fresh thinking and united determination. The anticipation felt like waiting for the final score in a thrilling netball match. Democracy in action can indeed be compelling!

Our Tai A Kiwa Programme

Participation in the “Our Tai A Kiwa” programme added another layer to this enriching experience. The Cook Islands Parliament’s commitment to promoting women’s participation, enhancing political skills, and creating a safe space in an often male-dominated environment spoke volumes. Here, I saw courage wrapped in grace and ambition served with humility.

Conclusion: A Melody I’ll Cherish

The wānanga was more than a conference; it was a melody of minds and hearts. I left Wellington with an enriched understanding, a sense of shared goals, and a handful of delightful anecdotes. These gatherings remind us that politics can be a realm of mutual respect, shared learning, and even a sprinkle of wit.

For those interested in immersing in the detailed journey, I recommend visiting the pages of the [New Zealand Parliament] (https://www.parliament.nz/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/office-of-the-speaker/press-releases/female-mps-from-across-the-pacific-headed-to-new-zealand-for-valuable-development-opportunity-at-parliament/) or the [Cook Islands Parliament] (https://rb.gy/uidza).

In the ever-changing landscape of politics, moments like these are oases of inspiration. The Pacific has sung a song of unity and empowerment, and I am still humming the tune.

#photocredit: Mary Aue

1. Economic Synergy: At its core, this agreement should fuel economic growth. The Cook Islands and Fiji can create a mutually beneficial economic ecosystem that elevates both nations by aligning strategies that stimulate entrepreneurship, innovation, and industry diversification.

2. Air Bridge to Prosperity: Strong air connectivity is the lifeline of modern economies. This agreement should prioritize enhancing air routes, fostering direct access between the two nations. This will boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, infusing vitality into both economies.

3. Trade Renaissance: Broadening the horizons of bilateral trade is pivotal. The agreement must facilitate exchange by dismantling barriers, streamlining customs processes, and encouraging cross-border commerce. This synergy can amplify economic potential on both sides.

4. Tourism Harmony: The pristine beauty of Cook Islands and Fiji calls for joint efforts to nurture sustainable tourism practices. This agreement can ensure an enduring source of revenue and environmental conservation by pledging to preserve natural treasures and promoting responsible tourism.

5. Embracing Labor Mobility: A forward-looking approach to labour mobility can enhance both nations’ human resources. The agreement should outline provisions that enable skilled individuals to contribute to various sectors, thus nurturing a global talent pool that benefits the Cook Islands, Fiji, and beyond.

6. Climate Resilience Pact: The shared vulnerability to climate change necessitates a united front. This agreement should earmark resources for climate adaptation and mitigation projects. A collaborative stance on climate action can safeguard communities against impending threats.

7. Engagement in Regional Platforms: Acknowledging the importance of platforms like the Forum Troika and Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM), the Cook Islands and Fiji should actively participate. These gatherings offer dialogue, coordination, and mutual support opportunities among Pacific Island nations, enhancing regional influence.

The spirit of unity and determination that defines this endeavor holds the potential to create a robust partnership between the Cook Islands and Fiji and is a testament to effective collaboration for the betterment of their citizens and the broader Pacific community. The new Development Cooperation Agreement is an emblem of hope in a world that thrives on partnerships, where countries unite to transform challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future.
#Photo Credit: Photo / Jeremy King NZ Herald