Nuku'alofa Times Issue 168

Nuku‘alofa

Times

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Volume 6 Issue 168 Thursday 11th November 2021

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E: iliesatora2012@gmail.com

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COVER STORY... page 03

PM Hon Dr Pohiva Tuionetoa

Health Minister Dr Amelia Tuipulotu

Health CEO Dr Siale Akauola

of procedures as Tonga is cleared

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LOCAL NEWS

No transmission as Tonga is set to return to normal

Nuku’alofa (Nuku’alofa Times): The first COVID-19 case for Tonga is now confirmed as a historical case in quarantine, the Ministry of Health confirmed today.

But his second weak positive test meant he is not able to transmit the virus and he will undergo a new 21 days of quarantine, in line with World Health Organization procedures, Dr Siale Akauola confirmed at a press conference around 3pm here in Nuku’alofa today.

“He tested a weak positive again but the good news is that he is not able to transmit the virus,” Dr Siale said.

“He will go through the new 21 days of quarantine and we will

Health Minister Dr Amelia Tuipulotu at the press conference this afternoon. Photo: Nuku’alofa Times

keep monitoring him and the rest of the 214 passengers that came with him from Christchurch.”

All frontline workers who served at the

Fua’amotu International Airport when the flight arrived on October 27 will be tested again this weekend and if they all return negative results the current lockdown and curfew restrictions is set

SAMU’S FIJI FOOD CORNER with TOP 1 PIZZA

Taufa’ahau Rd, Nuku’alofa (opposite ANZ Bank)

to be lifted on Tuesday morning.

“We are going to test all the frontliners again and if they test negative then we turn to the normal lockdown used previously.”

Health Minister Dr Amelia Tuipolotu said although the passenger tested a weak positive “he is fine and doing well”.

“We are thankful to everyone who has been in quarantine and following the procedures,” she added.

Disaster Management Minister (MEIDECC) Hon Poasi Tei, chair of the National Emergency Management Committee, said things look all set at the moment, pending the testing of all frontliners.

“If they provide negative results then we will revert to the 12am to 5am lockdown,” he said.

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Prime Minister Hon Dr Rev Pohiva Tuionetoa wants all Tongans and her residents to continue to follow the restrictions.

He said government will continue to review every situation and put in place plans to help ensure Tonga is safe.

Meanwhile, Acting Police Commissioner Brigadier Lord Fielakepa told the press conference this afternoon that over 30 people have been arrested for kava drinking during

Hon Poasi Tei says if all results are negative curfew will be lifted. Photo: Nuku’alofa Times

the lockdown period.

“These were mainly at community police posts, homes and kava clubs,” he said.

“Kava drinking anywhere is prohibited at this time.”

He has sounded a warning that anyone caught breaking restrictions will be punished by law.

Looking forward The Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Disaster Management (MEIDECC) Mr Paula Ma’u said the next repatriation flight into Tonga will be confirmed later.

That could be the last flight into the country for the year as well.

“We will then resume again in 2022,” he added.

Education Minister Lord Huakavameiliku said that a committee has been tasked with reviewing standing procedures to ensure that there is no loophole that

could see community transmissions if there were flights coming in with possible positive cases.

“This is ongoing and we do this to see whether there is anything we can do better,” he added.

Trade and Economic Development Minister Tatafu Moeaki told the press conference that government is continuing to access impacts of lockdowns for businesses in Tongatapu who might have suffered from the event.

“That is currently being done and we will confirm that once we have been able to determine the issues,” Hon Tatafu added.

Vaccination rates continue to increase with 93% of the total eligible population (18 year olds and above) have had their first shots of vaccines while under-18 year olds to 12 year olds have reached 84% of the first dose.

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LOCAL NEWS /OPINION

Review of procedures as Tonga is cleared

by ILIESA TORA

Prime Minister Hon Dr Pohiva Tuionetoa says important to work together.

Photo: Nuku’alofa Times

N u k u ’ a l o f a (Nuku’alofa Times): The risk of transmitting COVID-19 to the community lies with the frontliners who serve returning passengers on repatriation flights from overseas.

And the Ministry of Health is focused on ensuring that procedures that guide all frontliners is reviewed, with loopholes identified and solutions found to ensure the safety of Tonga.

Health Chief Executive Officer Dr Siale Akauola told the media press conferences held during the lockdown in Tongatapu last week that this is being done urgently.

“We have a team that is reviewing the procedures to make sure that there is no gaps,” Dr Siale said.

“It is critical that our frontliners know what to do do and follow them.”

The media had asked about the issue because some frontliners were moving around the community following the arrival of a repatriation flight from Christchurch

in New Zealand two weeks ago.

That flight brought in Tonga’s first positive COVID-19 case.

The passenger has since been cleared and all frontliners, who had to be gathered into quarantine at the Kupesi Hotel in Fua’amotu after the positive case was confirmed, sent home following negative test results.

One Customs Officer travelled to Ha’apai and had to be quarantined there.

Dr Siale said it is critical that the procedure is secure.

“We can not afford to get one case into the community because that would be fatal for Tonga,” he said.

“Our health system will not be able to cope with severe cases.”

Education Minister Hon Huakavameiliku said that a committee dealing with the issue will be making recommendations to the National Emergency Management Committee.

“They will make their recommendations on

what we need to do to ensure that we are all safe,” he said.

Tongatapu underwent a week-long curfew following the confirmation of the positive case.

That was lifted on Monday afternoon.

Government is calling on all Tongans and residents to get vaccinated before borders are opened or more flights are allowed in.

Prime Minister Hon Dr Rev Pohiva Tuionetoa said the opening of more flights will depend on vaccination.

“We need everyone to get their double shots first,” he said.

“If we wait and delay flights bringing Tongans home will also be delayed.”

There is likely to be one or two repatriation flights this month.

Tonga is now officially registered with one positive COVID-19 case.

Luckily for the country the passenger was vaccinated twice before returning to Tonga.

Dr Siale said the fact he

was vaccinated ensured the passenger did not get seriously sick and was not able to transmit the virus.

Vaccination is continuing daily here in Tongatapu.

Government wants to see 90% of all eligible population vaccinated.

Health Minister Hon Dr Amelia Tuipolotu said

they were hopeful all eligible people will get their shots done.

“We are thankful to all those who have had their shots and urge everyone who have not to go and get their shots,” she said.

“It is critical for Tonga. And we know that vaccination will help.”

Dr Amelia also thanked

all frontliners who continue to give their time to serve.

“We are grateful to all those who are out there doing the work to help keep Tonga safe,” she added.

All 215 passengers from the Chirctchurch flight will be released once they have completed the 21 days quarantine.

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LOCAL NEWS

“Hao Moúi” Tsunami Drill for Schools at Lifuka

New Parliament Building

Nuku’alofa (NZHC): A stakeholder consultation will be conducted for the residents, business operators, Government Ministries and Departments that are located along the CBD area of Nuku’alofa starting from the intersections of Taufa’ahau and Vuna Road to the intersection between Taufa’ahau and Laifone Road to the intersection between Laifone and

Fatafehi Road leading up to the intersection between Fatafehi and Vuna Road and closing back to Taufa’ahau Road.

This will be part of the environmental impact assessment carried out to determine the negative and positive impacts the building will have on the residents, businesses and offices that are located within the vicinity. The

consultation is carried out in two parts, there is an online survey and the face to face consultation is for those who we have arranged to have two sessions. It is therefore imperative that the following email or facebook account be used to register your name and interest and the details of either online survey or which stakeholder meeting be sent to you.

Lifuka (MEIDECC): The National Emergency Management Office (NEMO), the Tonga Meteorological Office (Tonga MET) and the Communications Department from the Ministry of MEIDECC combined to celebrate the annual National Tsunami Awareness Day with the First Responders of and in Ha’apai to conduct a Tsunami Drill for the schools in Lifuka on Friday 29th November 2021.

World Tsunami Day is on 5th November 2021 annually and these Departments celebrated early in Ha’apai, prior to the preparation of end of year exams.

This drill was targeted at school students, teachers and principals, the Ha’apai Emergency Operations Centre staff and Tonga MET staff based at at Koulo with the aim to increase participants knowledge of the required immediate response which included the evacuation routes to the designated meeting place/s. It also was conducted to test the readiness capability of

the Ha’apai Emergency Operation Centre and Tonga MET service at Koulo.

This year’s tsunami drill differs from previous drills as all schools at Lifuka were able to participate.

This drill followed usual practice with the First Responders and Logistics and Coordination Cluster which consist of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, Tonga Police, Tonga Fire and Emergency Services and Tonga Red Cross Society in providing the required support at Ha’apai’s Emergency Operations Centre, less than a year old, and in the field (at the schools).

The Ha’apai participants were able to test drive the use of the new sirens through the National Early Warning System (NEWS) project, implemented by the Government of Japan, through the Communications Department of MEIDECC. GPS Tongaleleka, GPS Pangai, GPS Koulo, Haápai High School, Tailulu College and St. Joseph College students were the participants, with the First

Responders supporting in the safe evacuation from the physical locations to the meeting points/ assembly areas, with Tonga MET supporting with the broadcasting. Further instruction was disbursed

by EOC in Lifuka.

Ha’apai’s EOC was staffed by NEMO, the First Responders, MEIDECC Officers and volunteer officers from the Governor’s Office and the Ministry of Revenue and Customs.

The CEO for MEIDECC, Mr Paula Ma’u highlighted that “Today is historical as the first tsunami drill in Ha’apai given her vulnerability to tsunami and natural disasters because of low lying islands in the middle of deep, deep oceans.”

MEIDECC CEO thanked all willing participants – the First Responders, participating Ministries and schools that were engaged in this drill in a collaborative effort to empower Ha’apai children, communities and build their resilience in response to events they may potentially impacted by.

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LOCAL NEWS

Changemaker Stories: Netina Latu Vea

Nuku’alofa (ITTF): Netina Latu Vea’s Smash Down Barriers programme aims to promote social inclusion and acceptance of persons with disabilities in remote villages in Tonga.

The Changemaker Stories look to redirect the spotlight from the “project impact and outcomes” of our regular work to the humans behind the projects – those who choose to go above and beyond. We hope it will inspire others to do the same and serve as testimony that however big or small your idea is, it is possible to bring positive social change to your community. These are the everyday heroes in the Dream Building Fund.

“Everyone was created for a purpose, and everyone has a gift. Given the right opportunity to enhance those gifts, everyone can positively contribute to society.” – Netina Latu Vea, project leader, CEO of Tonga Table Tennis Federation (TTTF).

Inequality manifests itself differently, sometimes even without us knowing.

In the Kingdom of Tonga, where over 170 South Pacific islands are lined in white beaches, coral reefs, and tropical rainforest, project leader Netina Latu Vea saw great societal bias against persons with disabilities (PWD). With her programme Smash Down Barriers, Vea and her team at the TTTF aim to promote social inclusion and acceptance by improving the quality

of life for PWD in remote villages on the main island of Tongatapu and the outer islands.

Apprehension first, understanding will follow “PWD are looked down upon in Tonga in a way that they have limited resources compared to the rest of us. It is difficult for them, as there is not enough awareness towards the topic, as well as the daily barriers PWD face in our society.”

Having had great success in her initial project, Bounce it Back, Vea has also faced her share of challenges and obstacles.

“Table tennis is fun and a sport that can be adapted for anyone to play and enjoy. It is probably one of the best sports to achieve our goal, but it is also only a minor sport in Tonga.

There are a few extra steps needed if we want to use table tennis as a tool for our purpose. The Dream Building Fund allowed us to extend the reach of our projects and we ought to be strategic about our approach.”

Smash Down Barriers consists of three interconnected projects that provide the roadmap to improving the quality of life for PWD in remote villages and outer islands of Tonga.

“In phase one, we focus on the inclusion of PWD and changing

perceptions within the community. We start on a grassroots level with the already established project Bounce it Back, rolling it out to schools in villages to build school children’s undrestnding of PWD. Phase two focuses on delivering an inclusive table tennis coaching course to village volunteers, while phase three aims to deliver inclusive table tennis programmes and engage PWD in remote villages.”

The hardest part is getting started Even with a welldesigned plan, Smash Down Barriers has seen a few ongoing challenges.

“A common challenge in our country is delay to due traditional procedures especially in villages if a funeral happens. The delay of implementation could last for a week. We need to be strategic in our approach to ensure our target audience does not lose interest in the programme.”

Traditions aside, the lack of understanding for PWD and their struggles has cast great shadow for families and friends of PWD, creating further barriers for the programme to gain trust from its target audience.

“Our team needs to be careful to ensure the families of PWD are comfortable to trust us to allow their children or family member with PWD to join the programme.

PWD are usually frowned

upon in our society and families are scared to let their loved ones with PWD come out in public. With the support from the Australian High Commissioner, her Royal Highness Princess Salote Mafile’o Pilolevu Tuita and Government Ministries, we hope we can relieve this fear.”

Dreams always come a size too big “… so we have to grow

to fit them. Working with the ITTF Foundation has given us the opportunity to make positive change to the lives of our friends and families living with disabilities in Tonga.” “ The opportunity we offer our target audience with our programme will improve their lives and contribute to an equal and inclusive society.

Everyone has the right to play, no matter the capabilities.”

Seeing her own growth

through the programme, Vea encourages everyone to be the changemaker.

“Anyone who dares to make a positive contribution to society needs to have the confidence to go ahead and do what’s in their heart. Do not settle for mediocrity for your dreams. Twenty years from now, you would be more disappointed with the things you did not do, rather than the ones you have done.”

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EDITORIAL

Nuku’alofa Times Cartoon Lets us do our part and leave Health to do theirs There are too many armchair critics around.

More so on social media platforms right now – and majority of them living outside of Tonga.

The current COVID-19 case has proven that.

More Tongans, especially those who are accessible to mobile fones and the internet, rely on social media now for their news than on mainstream media like radio, television and newspapers.

Even if what they are getting are unconfirmed, rumors or make believes people share because they have their own hidden agendas.

Sadly a lot of so called journalists in Tonga are also part of the group who trust social media blogs and updates that are unconfirmed and baseless.

More sad is the fact that some of these so called journalists take these unconfirmed, baseless and unethical news and use that to misinform or ill-advise readers, viewers or listeners.

We live in a world that is full of different challenges.

COVID-19 struck the world almost 24 months ago, after the Huwan outbreak that the Chinese tried their best to hide.

Before that we were trying to keep alive from the mass destruction we were bringing upon ourselves in the form of climate change.

That has been an ongoing problem we are also continuing to battle with daily even more so now.

HIV/AIDS killed millions when it broke out – and medical experts are still trying to find a cure.

The announcement by the top echelons of the Ministry of Health, in Dr Amelia Tuipolotu and Dr Siale Akauola, on Wednesday, November 4 that the COVID-19 positive case had returned negative results on Monday, should be taken as a relief for those who were worried of a possible transmission here.

Both Dr Amelia and Dr Siale clarified and confirmed that: * the passenger was vaccinated twice and tested negative before coming to Tonga from Christchurch. * the passenger then tested positive after 3 tests that were done but the positive result was a weak one. * since the weak positive was announced the passenger had tested negative again. * a further test will be carried out on Friday this week and if that proves negative again then the all-clear will be given to Tonga. * all equipment used by the Ministry of Health in Tonga were already tested and are at the same standards as those used in New Zealand or any other country as per World Health Organisation (WHO) standards. * the Ministry trusts the systems and procedures in place for testing and confirmation of results of tests carried out to confirm whether one is negative or positive and there is no need to send for verification overseas. * having double shots of the vaccine has proven to work and that was one of the reason why the passenger has tested negative again after the weak positive was first recorded. * everyone who are eligible for vaccination in Tonga (12 years old and above) must get double shots so that they are protected. * the Ministry of Health will continue to work on confidentiality of information with patients and also counsel repatriated passengers to ensure that they do not spread information that could put them in jeopardy and under public scrutiny.

National Emergency Management Committee chairman Hon Poasi Tei, Minister responsible for Emergency under the Ministry of MEIDECC, said Tongans must believe in the Ministry of Health and leave them to do their work.

He told the press conference on November 3 that government’s plans and actions are led by the advise that the Health officials give them.

And he has called on people to trust that process and system. To play their own part in doing what they need to do to make sure that Tonga is safe.

So what can we do?

First of all, stop believing everything that you read on Facebook or any other social media UNLESS you see that is from authorities like the Ministry of Health, government ministries trusted media organisations and people who we believe are trustworthy to share such information.

Find out whether they are true or not.

Second, go and get vaccinated if you are not vaccinated.

Third, wear your masks where you need to and keep social distancing.

Fourth, follow the restrictions set out by government.

Fifth, keep safe and make wise decisions for you and your family.

Tonga and her people must understand that some who post issues on social media and try to get their readers and viewers to follow their thinking will not help you out when you are in trouble.

We have a responsibility to our families, to our communities and to Tonga to ensure that we are able to keep everyone safe in our own circles.

Let us do our part, let Health and government do theirs!

Nuku‘alofa

Times The NUKU’ALOFA TIMES is published once a week for Tonga by NUKU’ALOFA TIMES MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS of Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu KINGDOM OF TONGA Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: ILIESA TORA EMail: iliesatora2012@gmail.com Phone: (+676) 864-2633 Associate Editor: ALFRED TORA EMail: alfredtora@rocketmail.com Production: TEVITA SILIVA

EMail: silvergreen8@gmail.com Phone: +676 7745984 Correspondences in Tonga, The Region and the World

Dr Manu retained as CEO for Agriculture, Food and Forests

Nuku’alofa (PSC): The Public Service Commission is pleased to announce the successful re-appointment of Dr. Viliami Toalei Manu of Kolofo’ou, Tongatapu as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests with effect from 01st November, 2021 for a period of two (2) years.

Dr Manu holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Soil Science (2001) from the University of New England, Australia.

He holds a Master of

Science (second class Honours) in Analytical Chemistry (1989) from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand and has also attained a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry (1982) from Massey University, New Zealand.

Dr Manu’s career in the public service began in 1983 when he was appointed as an Agricultural Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests.

Since then, he has taken

over senior positions within the Ministry including Senior Soil Chemist (1991), Principal Soil Scientist (1994) and later to the Chief Plant Pathologist position. He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer for Agriculture, Food and Forests on 11 October 2016 where he continued to serve until the end of his contract on 10 October 2020.

Dr Manu is also a dedicated National Pesticide Registrar with extensive experience in

managing the import, provision of statistics, advice and trainings on safety of Pesticides into Tonga. He is also Tonga’s National Codex Contact Point for the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/ World Health Organisation (WHO) Codex Alimentarius Commission since 2007 and the National Codex Contact for the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Genetic Modified Platform since 2014.

Dr Manu has sat on various professional committees namely the Chemical Review Committee of the Rotterdam Convention’s Conference of the Parties as well as the Designated National Authority for Tonga for the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Pesticides in International Trade since 2012.

The Public Service Commission congratulates Dr Viliami Toalei Manu on his re-appointment as Chief Executive Officer for Agriculture, Food and Forests and looks forward to his continued contribution to the Government and the people of Tonga.

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OPINION COLUMN

The 5 Attributes to Emotional Intelligence

Alfred Tuikoro Tora is Associate Editor of the Nuku’alofa Times. He currently lives and studies in Utah, United States of America. The opinion column is his and not of the Nuku’alofa Times. He will be a regular contributor to the Nuku’alofa Times.

by ALFRED TORA Emotions are what makes us human and is the basis of how we make decisions!

It regulates how motivated we are to climb the corporate ladder, who we pick as partners in life and business, and even down to the simplest tasks we do daily such as what clothes we put on and such.

It is then important to understand how emotions work and how to control it both internally as well as with your social interactions. To do this, we will break down the 5 attributes that make a model of Emotional Intelligence and how they each contribute to a higher EQ level.

1. An Awareness of Self The Greek philosopher Socrates advised that we should know ourselves first. Simply put, we must learn to be honest with ourselves about who we really are.

This is hard because we always seem to be the heroes of our own stories right? We cannot do wrong in our own eyes and we are almost always as perfect as the day we entered this earth. What that means is, that we are unable to be truthful about what our weaknesses are and even, to some extent, what our actual strengths are as well.

To become true Masters of emotion, we must first find out what makes us tick to see what we can do during those situations.

Once we identify those potential situations - such as dealing with angry customers or co-workers - we can take a step back to collect our thoughts and remain calm.

2. Self-regulation Once you have done a self assessment and have identified what situations are triggers and how you

react during those times, you are able to understand your emotions quite well.

The next attribute to be aware of is self-regulation.

Self-regulation is the ability to control your emotions which helps you remain calm in the face of stressful situations.

It enables you to reflect on mistakes and difficult scenarios to identify lessons that could be learnt.

Without self-regulation, we are more likely to blow up whenever things don’t go our way. We tend to criticize mistakes that we, and our team, make. This cuts into an important time in development, where instead of learning from our mistakes, we spend too much time blaming ourselves and others.

The world we live in now is changing at a rate never seen before, and if we cannot control our emotions and learn to adapt, we will soon be left behind.

3. Empathy This attribute is the one most identifiable to what EQ is. Empathy is the ability to read and relate to the emotions of others around you. This is an essential skill to have in order to fit into any social setting.

In the business setting, having empathy allows you to connect, build relationships, and earn

the trust with people you interact with. This would include team members, clients, and your bosses.

It also necessary for understanding cultures different from your own, new business environments and avoiding conflict stemming from misunderstanding.

The ability to create strong relationships and build trust contributes to increased loyalty which are integral to successful businesses.

4. Motivated Teams Emotionally intelligent individuals and teams are able to stay motivated and motivate each other!

Teams with high EQ are more likely to be passionate about what they do and strive to create excellence within their environment. It encourages leaders to improve operations, to ask the hard questions about their teams, and to work through adversity.

It also drives team members to achieve set goals because they are passionate about those goals and not because of rewards.

5. Interpersonal Skills As I have mentioned before, social skills - or Interpersonal skills as it is now called - are essential to fit into a social group and this includes work

teams and organizations.

This is a culmination of the rest of the attributes - it is putting all the attributes associated with EQ together.

Having interpersonal skills means having the ability to understand people, develop strong relationships, motivating others and doing all these in a friendly way.

For organizations to work, teams need to work together to achieve the goals they have set.

Having the skills to create relationships and motivate each other to hit those goals are definitely essential in today’s world don’t you think?

Call to Action Now that you have a grasp of the different attributes of Emotional Intelligence

is - Self-awareness, Selfregulation, Empathy, Motivation and Interpersonal skills - I hope that you’re encouraged to develop it within your life.

Not only does it benefit your professional life, but it can also be helpful in your social life as well. As I’ve said before, much of what EQ is allows you to fit into society better.

How much Emotional Intelligence do you think you have?

Do you think that EQ is as important as we think it is?

What, if any, are occupations that you think does not require high EQ?

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LOCAL NEWS

Green climate financing attracts

The attendants at the Workshop -The 29th of October is also the day that Tonga recorded its 1st Positive reported case of Covid – 19, despite this unfortunate turn of events, a successful workshop was still held

Nuku’alofa (MEIDECC): The Green Climate Fund Private Sector Readiness Project Management Unit (PMU) under the Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, held its 2nd

Inception Workshop on Friday 29th October 2021.

More than 30 participants attended the workshop from across the Private sector both formal and informal, key relevant

government agencies and Public Enterprises, Civil Society Forum and representatives from the GCF National Designated Authority – Climate Change Dept,

MEIDECC. The workshop was an opportunity for the PMU and TCCI to provide an overview of the project and procedural guideline to enable the private sector to access and tap into available GCF funding windows.

While emphasising the need to overcome the private sector barriers, the participants were interested in mobilising the project interventions by sector while at the same time investing in low carbon technology.

As the Green Climate Fund is now available in Tonga, greater effort is

needed to raise awareness about the opportunities it presents to the Tongan business space. The half day event’s main objective was to continue to drive messages about what is available through the fund, the kind of projects that may be assisted and the application and approval process.

To this end, this project will guide the private sector to invest in low emission climate resilient development through developing robust strategic planning that can promote or/and attract the engagement of the private

sectors. The participants were also given an idea about the project workplan and timeline until August 2022.

At that time successful projects will be incorporated into Tonga’s Country program pipeline.

Future consultations will be announced by the Project Management Unit in due time. The public is however encouraged to visit tongachamber.to and also engage with the facebook page (facebook. com/chambertonga) to stay abreast with future consultations and information about the GCF in Tonga.

Mr Paula Taumoepeau – President TCCI Board encourages mitigation & adaptation measures regarding climate change to be included in all business plans

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REGIONAL NEWS

Fiji police stop climate rally by youths

Suva (RNZ): A peaceful march organised by young people in Fiji to celebrate creation ended abruptly after police officers stepped in to stop the rally in Suva last weekend.

Organisers told local media police also removed their banners.

They say the youths wanted to show their support for the Fijian COP26 delegation in Glasgow.

Rally organiser Atelemo Laticakaudrove said there was ‘miscommunication’ with the Suva City Council which had granted them the green light to proceed with the march along the footpath at the park.

But police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said no permit was issued by police and they had to disperse those gathered.

Police have said no

application had been made to police with regards to a march and, as such, no permit had been granted.

Police said senior church members present at the march were informed that any permit for a public march had to be issued by police in consultation with the FRA (Fiji Roads Authority) and the respective municipal council.

“The issue was the permit as there was none issued by Police,” Naisoro said.

“This was relayed to the senior members present that a permit for a march is issued by Police in consultation with FRA and the relevant municipal council.”

Meanwhile, the opposition said the decision by police to disperse the March for Creation by youths of the

Columban Society of the Catholic Church in support of the Government’s participation at COP26

Tuvalu minister to address Cop26 knee deep in seawater to highlight climate crisis

In a statement, National Federation Party vice-president Lenora Qereqeretabua said “the hypocrisy of the FijiFirst Government is unbelievable”.

“Frank Bainimarama and Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum give speeches in Glasgow against climate change. But young people in Fiji are not allowed to march and show their support

for the same thing,” Qereqeretabua said.

She said last Saturday was a day of action for young people all over the world to rally and demand climate justice.

More than 50,000 young climate warriors marched in Glasgow, calling on world leaders to act now to save the planet.

“In hundreds of places across the world, young people turned out in support,” Qereqeretabua said.

“But not in Fiji. Why? Because the police said they needed a permit from

H o n i a r a (SOLOMONTIMES): 239,438 doses of COVID-19 vaccines, which includes both the AstraZeneca and Sinopharm Vaccines 1st and 2nd doses, have been administered as of Friday last week 5th of November.

Of the total doses administered 59,226 (14.3%) people are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is from a toal vaccine eligible population of 414,327.

Up to 120,986 (29.2%) people have received their first jab, meaning close to 43.5 percent of the eligible population have received at least one

dose of the vaccine.

With health care workers, 42.9 percent have received 2 doses of COVID-19 vaccines and 76.8 percent with at least 1 dose.

For our elderlies, 55 years and above, only 6.8 percent have completed 2 doses and 26.1 percent with at least one dose. With this, the Ministry of Health is urging households with elderlies to help them reach vaccination sites to get their vaccine doses. They are the most vulnerable and are more likely to get serious complications should they become infected with COVID-19.

Vaccine administration is higher among males than in females, with a total of

‘made no sense at all’.

Opposition slams police action

the Fiji Roads Authority to march on the footpath.

“Young people are already frustrated with this Government for failing to address their concerns.

“And now, even when they try to speak up on the same side as the government, they are stopped.”

Both Fiji’s Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and Climate Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, who attended COP26, have yet to respond to RNZ Pacific’s requests for comment.

239,438 COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the Solomons

Funafuti (GUARDIAN): Tuvalu’s foreign minister has recorded a speech for the United Nations climate conference in Glasgow standing knee-deep in seawater to highlight how his low-lying Pacific Island nation is on the frontline of climate change.

Images of Simon Kofe standing in a suit and tie at a lectern set up in the sea, with his trouser legs rolled up, have been shared widely on social media, drawing attention to Tuvalu’s struggle against rising sea levels.

“The statement juxtaposes the Cop26 setting with the real-life situations faced in Tuvalu due to the impacts

of climate change and sea level rise and highlights the bold action Tuvalu is taking to address the very pressing issues of human mobility under climate change,” Kofe said in his video message.

The video was shot by public broadcaster TVBC at the far end of Fongafale, the main islet of the capital Funafuti, a government official said. It is due to be shown at the climate summit on Tuesday and comes as regional leaders push for more aggressive action to limit the impact of climate change.

Many big polluters have vowed to intensify their carbon cuts over coming decades with

some aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

But Pacific Island leaders have demanded immediate action, pointing out that the very survival of their lowlying countries is at stake.

Before Cop26, it emerged that one-third of Pacific small island states and territories would be unable to send any government figures to the summit in Glasgow due to Covid-19 travel restrictions.

The lack of high-level representation of Pacific nations at the meeting led to fears that the concerns of these countries, which are among those most at risk due to the climate crisis, would not be appropriately represented at the summit.

102,724 males vaccinated.

55 percent of total doses have been given to males as compared to females who account for 45% of the doses.

To achieve coverage of 90 percent 313,668 will need to get their first jab, while 192,682 will need to get their second jab.

Community and Church Leaders who have had their vaccination also urged to encourage those that are vaccine-hesitant to get vaccinated. People not yet vaccinated are encouraged to take the courage and stand up for what is actually right, because many lives will be saved, and you can make the difference in the vaccination drive.

Thursday 11th November 2021

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REGIONAL NEWS

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 10

Picking and choosing of students must stop, says Minister Kumar

“It is your duty to serve the children PNG: State of your area first.” directed to join NO JAB, NO JOB case

Suva (FIJISUN): As school leaders you have to convince parents and students that no school is better than the other.

This was the statement

by Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Premila Kumar, to the school heads of Andhra Sangam College

and Sigatoka Methodist College yesterday.

Speaking during her official visit, Ms Kumar told the school heads that most of them only chose high achievers and boast about their schools’ academic results.

“No child should be

denied to study whether he or she is poor in academics,” she said.

“You need to stop picking and choosing students coming to your school.”

Ms Kumar urged the school heads to follow the zoning policy.

“What we have found

out that some of these schools are overcrowded.

We were not being able to balance students from each schools.

“We have to work out ways that we can filled each classrooms. So it is your duty to serve the children of your area first.”

Naomi Mata’afa said this was included in the FAST manifesto for the 2021 General Election.

Parliament has approved 250,000 tālā to fund a

review of the Constitution, the first in 60 years.

Fiame says the fiveyear term was an original provision from the beginning of the Constitution.

But the Head of State can be removed at any time by a two thirds majority vote of Parliament.

Samoa’s first Head of State was a joint appointment of Tupua Tamasese Meaole and Malietoa Tanumafili II, who were appointed for life.

But the next Head of State would hold office for a five-year term.

Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese

Efi served as Head of State for two terms and Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II is currently in his first term.

The wide-ranging review will cover legislation relating to the appointment of Head of State and Members of the Council of Deputies and establishing legislation that would restrict the Prime Minister to two consecutive terms in office.

Fiame said questions such as whether Head of State appointees should be limited to members of Tama-a-Aiga would be determined in the legislative chamber.

Samoa’s Head of State could be appointed for life

Apia (RNZ): The Samoan government will consider a constitutional change to allow the Head of State to be appointed for life.

Prime Minister Fiame

Port Moresby (POSTCOURIER): Two cases against the ‘no jab, no job’ policy is now before the courts.

The first cases is filed by a human right organization to declare the no jab, no job policy unconstitutional.

The other case is filed bu aggrieved employees of the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), through their workers union against the commision for the implemention of the no jab, no job policy.

Both cases were mentioned before Deputy Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi at the Waigani National Court this week and were adjourned to November 16.

NCDC Workers Union is seeking redress for the rights of unvaccinated NCDC staff who have been barred from entering their workplace after NCDC implemented the no jab, no job policy, while the human rights organisation is seeking redress for all working citizens including staff of NCDC. The human rights case is pursued by a lawyer, Baundo Francis, who is also the founder and executive director of Human Rights Advocacy International Inc (HRAII).

He filed the application pursuant to s.57 of the Constitution and Rule 6(c) and (e) of the Human Rights Rules 2020.

Justice Kandakasi saw the need for the State to be party to the proceedings and issued directions for the National Executive Council, the Minister for Health and the Pandemic Controller to join as parties in a case against the ‘no jab, no job’ policy.

He directed the NEC, which included the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet, Health Minister Jelta Wong and Pandemic Controller David Manning are to join as parties in the proceeding.

Thursday 11th November 2021

www.nukualofatimes.to

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 11

YOUTH

MORAL STORY OF THE WEEK

THIS WEEK’S TOP 10 SONGS

Two Friends & The Bear

French Toast

1. Shivers - Ed Sheeran 2. One Right Now - Post Malone 3. Stay - The Kid LAROI 4. Easy On Me - Adele 5. Cold Heart - PNAU 6. Heat Waves - Glass Animals 7. Industry Baby - Lil Nas X 8. Love Nwantiti - CKay 9. Escape Plan - Travis Scott 10. Money - Lisa

THIS WEEK’S TOP 10 MOVIES 1. Eternals 2. Dune: Part One 3. No Time To Die 4. Venom 5. Ron’s Gone Wrong 6. The French Dispatch 7. Halloween Kills 8. Spencer 9. Antlers 10. Last Night in Soho

boxofficemojo.com

open.spotify.com

Vijay and Raju were friends. On a holiday they went walking into a forest, enjoying the beauty of nature. Suddenly they saw a bear coming at them.

They became frightened.

Raju, who knew all about climbing trees, ran up to a tree and climbed up quickly. He didn’t think of Vijay. Vijay had no idea how to climb the tree.

Vijay thought for a second. He’d heard animals don’t prefer dead bodies, so he fell to the ground and held his breath. The bear sniffed him and thought he was dead. So, it went on its way.

INGREDIENTS * * * * * * *

Raju asked Vijay;

“What did the bear whisper into your ears?”

Vijay replied, “The bear asked me to keep away from friends like you” …and went on his way.

6 thick slices bread 2 eggs ⅔ cup milk ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (Optional) ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (Optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Optional) salt to taste

DIRECTIONS DirectionsInstructions Checklist

Moral of the story: A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Step 1 Beat together egg, milk, salt, desired spices and vanilla.

Step 2 Heat a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.

S

Step 3 Dunk each slice of bread in egg mixture, soaking both sides. Place in pan, and cook on both sides until golden. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 240 calories; protein 10.6g; carbohydrates 33.6g; fat 6.4g; cholesterol 128.3mg; sodium 477.7mg.

Youth Weekly Horoscope ARIES (21Mar-19Apr)

Take the money and run LIBRA (23Sep-22Oct)

“I am so rich!”

TAURUS (20Apr-20May)

Shake it up SCORPIO (23Oct-21Nov)

“I’m worth it.”

GEMINI (21May-21Jun)

CANCER (22Jun-22Jul)

LEO (23Jul-22Aug)

Health is wealth

We are what we make

No drama

SAGITTARIUS (22Nov-21Dec)

CAPRICORN (22Dec-19Jan)

AQUARIUS 20Jan-18Feb)

I deserve some R&R

Life is better with (good) friends

What if it wasn’t just a dream?

VIRGO (23Aug-22Sep)

Do less PISCES (19Feb-20Mar)

Escape is attainable

Thursday 11th November 2021

www.nukualofatimes.to

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 12

ENTERTAINMENT

Vin Diesel wants to end Dwayne Johnson feud for the sake of ‘Fast 10’

Hollywood (YAHOO): After walking Paul Walker’s daughter Meadow down the aisle, Vin Diesel has a proposal for Dwayne Johnson: Come back to the Fast and Furious fold.

Though Diesel and Johnson have been publicly dinging each other in the five years since butting heads on the set of 2017’s The Fate of the Furious, the actor best known for playing Dom Toretto in the long-running franchise appears ready to finish his feud with the former wrestler.

In an Instagram post shared on Sunday, Diesel wrote, “My little brother Dwayne... the time has come. The world awaits the finale of Fast 10. As you know, my children refer to

you as Uncle Dwayne in my house. There is not a holiday that goes by that they and you don’t send well wishes... but the time has come. Legacy awaits.”

Diesel went on to reference an obligation to his late costar Walker, who died in a single-accident collision in November 2013, to keep the Fast and Furious franchise ticking.

“I told you years ago that I was going to fulfill my promise to Pablo [Walker],” he told Johnson. “I swore that we would reach and manifest the best Fast in the finale that is 10! I say this out of love... but you must show up — do not leave the franchise idle. You have a very important role to play.

Hobbs can’t be played by no other. I hope that you

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ production temporarily delayed

rise to the occasion and fulfill your destiny.”

Johnson made his first appearance as Luke Hobbs in 2011’s Fast Five, reprising the role in Fast & Furious 6, Furious 7 and The Fate of the Furious. After clashing with Diesel on the set of the latter film, Johnson embarked on his own Hobbs spinoff, 2019’s Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw and did not appear in F9, released earlier this year.

Johnson — who is said to have fueled the feud with a sincedeleted 2016 Instagram post calling out “candy asses” who don’t “conduct themselves as stand-up men and true professionals” — addressed his beef with Diesel during an

interview with Vanity Fair published last month.

Though he stands by what he wrote in his Instagram post, the Rock acknowledged that “it caused a firestorm.”

He added, “Yet

interestingly enough... [it was] as if every single crew member found their way to me and either quietly thanked me or sent me a note.

But, yeah, it wasn’t my best day, sharing that.

I shouldn’t have shared that. Because at the end

of the day, that goes against my DNA. I don’t share things like that. And I take care of that kind of bulls*** away from the public.

They don’t need to know that. That’s why I say it wasn’t my best day.”

U2 Releases Original Song from ‘Sing 2,’ ‘Your Song Saved My Life’

Hollywood (MSN): The Black Panther sequel’s production is taking a break.

ET has learned that filming on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is being temporarily delayed due to Letitia Wright’s injury she sustain earlier this year. For the last two month, the Marvel movie has been filming in Atlanta, with director Ryan Coogler shooting as much as he could without the actress, who plays T’Challa’s sister, Shuri.

Production is expected to pause the week of Thanksgiving and is expected to resume in early 2022.

“Letitia has been recovering in London since September from injuries sustained on the set of Black Panther 2 and is looking forward to returning to work early 2022,” Wright’s rep told ET. “Letitia kindly asks that you keep her in your prayers.”

In August, Wright was hospitalized in Boston after a stunt mishap. At the time, ET learned that the minor incident involved a stunt rig.

“Letitia Wright sustained minor injuries today while filming a stunt for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” a Marvel spokesperson told ET at the time. “She is currently receiving care in a local hospital and is expected to be released soon.”

In September, ET spoke with Angela Bassett, who plays Wright’s on-screen mother, who shared that the Wakandan princess was doing just fine.

Dublin (YAHOO): After teasing it on social media earlier in the week, U2 has released the full-length “Your Song Saved My Life,” an original song the group and recorded for “Sing 2,” an animated musical set to hit theaters Dec. 22.

Although the new song

doesn’t represent any vast jump in genre, U2 fans will recognize it as a departure from the group’s usual style, starting off with a gospel-pop style piano and elevating into orchestral accompaniment before wrapping up with a falsetto chorus and not many guitars

in sight.

Several U2 catalog songs, including “Joshua Tree” favorites and “Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of,” also appear in the movie, which has Bono taking on a lead voice role for the first time, envisioned as a lion. His character, Clay Calloway, is

a legendary rock star who’s lived in seclusion since a tragedy 15 years earlier, and is now being coaxed out of retirement by the fledgling cast of a stage musical being mounted in a Las Vegas-like — but, of course, strictly animal-inhabited — resort city.

Thursday 11th November 2021

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SPORTS / ADVERTISEMENT

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 13

Thursday 11th November 2021

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SPORTS

Traditional Welcome For Fijian Drua World class facilities to boost Drua’s preparations, says interim CEO

From front (left-right) Interim Fijian Drua chief executive officer Brian Thorburn, NSW MP Ben Franklin, Ballina Shire Council Mayor David Wright, traditional custodian of Ngangbal Country in the Bundjalung Nation Lois Cook with the Drua players after the welcoming ceremoney on November 5, 2021. Photo: Fijian Drua

SUVA (FIJI SUN): The Fijian Drua rugby side were traditionally welcomed by the Ngangbul Country and the Lennox Head community on Friday.

The Drua are going to be based at the Lake Ainsworth Sports and Recreation Centre to prepare for their debut at the Super Rugby Pacific competition which gets underway on February 18.

The local-based players flew out to Sydney, Australia, last Thursday

where they were joined by the New Zealand and Australia-based players.

Interim Drua franchise chief executive Brian Thorburn and head coach Mick Bryne spoke during the welcoming ceremony.

Thorburn said it wasn’t easy finding a location where the team could base itself for such an extended period.

“We needed to find a home base where the team could initially prepare over a three month period until

the end of January 2022, which then could be used as a home base between Super Rugby Pacific matches during the 2022 season,” he said “The Lake Ainsworth facility provides everything that we need.

It has an excellent training field, a great gym and all the facilities needed to provide a professional environment for a Super Rugby team.

“Our players will stay in cottages on site, enjoy

very high-quality dining facilities, with team rooms and coaches’ offices that are a great fit.”

Also at the welcoming ceremony was New South Wales member of parliament Ben Franklin, Ballina Shire Council Mayor David Wright, traditional custodian of Ngangbal Country in the Bundjalung Nation, Lois Cook, former Australian Wallabies star first five eight Berrick Barnes and Greg Clarke.

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 14

In Brief Ruthless England annihilate meek Tonga in 11-try thrashing

Twickenham (TELEGRAPH): Despite Tonga’s admirable commitment and physicality, it is not unfair to assume England’s starting XV would face a more rigorous examination with an in-house game at Pennyhill Park. And yet there was so much to enthuse about in this 11-try victory, perhaps most notably that in a stroke it brought a feel-good factor back to Twickenham, banishing memories of last season’s grim Six Nations campaign with a blitz of tries and daring.

Full-time: England 69 Tonga. That’s that. England will have tougher challenges - and you must feel for Tonga, who were totally outclassed.

Scotland 60-14 Tonga

Mike Tyson speaks on becoming Anthony Joshua’s trainer ahead of his rematch with Usyk

Las Vegas (LEGIT): Legendary Mike Tyson has reportedly agreed to train Anthony Joshua who is preparing for his rematch against Ukrainian sensation Oleksandr Usyk, SunSport reports.

It was gathered that Tyson would see such move as an honour having stated that AJ has so much

potentials, despite losing his belts to Usyk.

It was gathered that Joshua has been preparing for the rematch in the US and his promoter Eddie Hearn recently bumped into “Iron Mike” Tyson as they attended Canelo Alvarez’s victory over Caleb Plant in Las Vegas.

Meanwhile, Legit.

ng earlier reported that British heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte has knocked Anthony Joshua for his loss to Oleksandr Usyk last September. AJ lost all his belts to the Ukrainian who outboxed him in front of his home fans at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It is understood

that the tactics of Joshua’s coach Rob McCracken was questioned during the fight against Usyk and the 32-year-old is on the lookout for a new coaching crew in the United States. However, former Common Wealth champion Whyte has played down the reports that McCracken was to blame for AJ’s loss to Usyk.

Murrayfield (WALESONLINE): Scotland claimed a 60-14 victory over Tonga at Murrayfield in the opening game of the Autumn Nations Series.

Fielding a number of new faces, Gregor Townsend’s team ran in 10 tries in all against the south seas islanders.

There were four touchdowns for South African-born wing Kyle Steyn, including a first-half hat-trick, on just his second international outing and his first start, earning him the man of the match award.

Fellow wing Rufus McLean - who was born in Boston, USA, but schooled in Scotland - crossed twice on his Test debut, with further tries coming from prop Pierre Schoeman, hooker George Turner, back rower Nick Haining and loosehead Oli Kebble.

Tonga, who have Cardiff attack coach Richie Rees as part of their coaching team this autumn, trailed 36-9 at half-time.

But they stuck in there and claimed a try of their own through tighthead prop Filimone Lolohea ahead of Scotland stretching the margin of victory with a couple of late scores, as Glasgow’s Steyn went over for a fourth time in the final play.

Thursday 11th November 2021

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Nuku’alofa Times - Page 15

SPORTS

Salote Sisifa: Spotlight on Tonga

By Amellia Wood

Nuku’alofa (NETBALL AUSTRALIA): “A working mother with four children from the islands, here I am hustling and rubbing shoulders with the highest level of decision makers in sports, because this opportunity as CEO has allowed me that.”

If you had asked Salote Sisifa ten years ago where she’d see herself today, there is no way her answer would have been anywhere near sport.

One of eight siblings from Tonga’s central business district, Sisifa grew up with strong family values and curiosity of people.

These qualities directed her to the career she would spend the best part of a decade and a half in, before an unexpected role shift would set a new course.

“I kind of ended up where I am by accident, the best accident to have been in,” Sisifa said.

“My background is in media but in 2013 I spent a few months off from radio and television as Tonga Netball Association needed someone in place.

“I was supposed to just spend some time while they found the right people to be in place, but within a year I was offered the job and became CEO. So here I am, a journalist by profession now the CEO of Tonga Netball.”

Growing up in Tonga there were only two sports offered in schools for Sisifa and her friends– netball for the girls, rugby for the boys.

“I started playing netball when I was nine for Tonga Side School, the only English-speaking primary school at the time.

“During my high school days, I continued to excel in the sport and in my senior year my team took out first place, which was very common for our school.

“This performance was the result of having teachers at the school who were former national players and passionate netball supporters who coached our teams.”

Despite a childhood filled with netball, it wasn’t until

Sisifa took her first steps into Tonga Netball that her true passion, respect and love for the sport was bred - majority of these feelings stemming from her immersion in the community.

As one of the most vibrant sports in Tonga, over a thousand consistent participants from ages six to 60 compete in tournaments and competitions throughout the year on both the main island and outer islands.

Additionally, more than 1,500 officials and supporters actively engage with Tonga Netball’s annual events.

“I was quite lucky as a child to live in the central business district of Tonga which meant we could sleep and wake up at 7.30am to prepare for netball or school and get there on time,” Sisifa explained.

“Going out to the rural areas and outer islands is always eye opening for me, for many young netballers living out East or West, their days start as early as 4am to travel into town for education.

“We must always remind ourselves that the decisions we make on the main island in the capital must always be looked at from the different geographical views of our audience. Life is hard, the further you live from the capital, the harder life is for some.”

As a working mother of four and wife to a national Solicitor General, Sisifa

said her leadership style has been built on her belief that to do well, family life must be stable.

“My staff and I are a tight nit little netball family and are open to discussion of ideas,” she said.

“I tell my staff and those I work with, come from home one hundred percent ready to work. If you wake up with a sick child, having issues with your husband or partner, please sort that out so when you come to work, you’re ready to work.”

Despite being in the office and meetings most of the time as CEO, Sisifa thrives most away from her desk.

“My favourite part is that you can contribute to making positive changes,” she said.

“I’m a very hands-on leader and like to join the technical staff when they roll out our programs to the communities, especially when visiting the outer islands as I get to see the growth of netball and how they operate in comparison with what means they have in the islands.

“Because of the good work of the staff, officials, players and supporters, our sport is recognized and respected from all levels, which has given me the opportunity to sit in executive roles of Government Enterprises being a Former Director of the Information, Communications and Technology Board from 2018-2019.”

Reflecting on her time as CEO, Sisifa admitted

that the transition wasn’t complete smooth sailing.

“To be honest, where I am today didn’t come as a bed of roses, I was kind of house sitting the post while they were finding the right people to be in place.”

While Tonga Netball underwent legal actions pertaining to former affiliations, Sisifa was at the forefront of it all. After questions surrounding who the official national body of netball in Tonga was raised, Sisifa fought for her association to be identified as the clear choice.

“Long story short, we fought the hard yards, provided supporting documents and the requirements needed from the courts and authority bodies to confirm that Tonga Netball Association is the official body of Netball in Tonga.

“Anyone and any organisation that has had to go through a court case would know the toll this takes but coming out with good results in our favour was worth the fight.”

Additionally, to the internal challenges of netball, Sisifa has experienced the reality of what female administration in Tonga entails and the mountains that must be moved for its improvement.

“It is very simple for women in Tonga to pursue administration work in sports, it’s just not common.

“Rugby is the loved sport in Tonga, so it’s been hard

trying to persuade our government that netball deserves the same funding they’re giving rugby.

“I had to understand, Rugby has been in Tonga for 100 years this year, and they’ve earned the respect of the country over the years – with that in mind we had to work and prove netball was worthy.

“It has been challenging but the government have been very helpful lately supporting us, and I believe netball has gained the respect it has worked hard to achieve.”

With a newfound sense of respect across the country sees new opportunities for the growth of female participation at the administrative and organisational level.

This year, Tonga Netball, along with surrounding Pacific countries including Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea, became a part of the Pacific Women’s Sports Administration Program, which aims to create avenues in the Pacific for women’s leadership in netball and enable associations to advance women in decision-making roles.

The program will work to promote gender equality, leadership and economic opportunities and livelihoods for women across the region. In providing more resources and training to partner countries, it is a goal to reduce barriers to female participation and increase the safety to participate.

In Sisifa’s words, the

program ultimately means hope for more women like herself to advance.

“We will use the opportunity to review where we are at and aim for where we want to be in years to come, “We want netball to be the best governed and administered sport in Tonga. We hope for netball to climb to the national ranks over the next decade. We hope for growth in participation numbers. We hope for better administration.

“This program will definitely help because it’s evident from all other sports and issues in our country that the flaw isn’t in the players, but from administration and those in governance of the sport.”

In past years, Tonga Netball has still achieved many monumental milestones despite their small staff ratio. Carparks repurposed as netball courts have been upgraded, higher participation rates across the board, and their 2019 Pacific Games team bringing home a silver medal are just a few.

It’s Sisifa’s involvement in these successes that makes it clear in her mind that the next decade for netball in Tonga will be the best one yet.

“My grandfather in raising me often said ‘tauhi ho fatongia pea ‘e tauhi koe ho fatongia’,” Sisifa reminisced.

Translated, the phrase means whatever task you’re given, take care of your job and your job will take care of you.

“I’ve carried these wise words over the years.

Those that have worked with me in anything know that in whatever I’m part of I give it 100 percent and will go the extra mile to live up to the expectations to fulfil targets because that’s the kind of worker I am.

“I like the fact that young girls can relate to my story, just your average Tongan girl born and raised in Tonga becoming a CEO of Netball. It’s possible, anything is, just with will, hard work and prayers, anything can be accomplished.”

Thursday 11th November 2021

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SPORTS

Upcoming World Rugby vote on eligibility could boost tier-two nations

Nuku’alofa Times - Page 16

Nuku‘alofa

Times

SPORTS TELL US YOUR NEWS OR SPORTS EVENT AND WE WILL TELL EVERYONE ELSE EMail: iliesatora2012@gmail.com silvergreen8@gmail.com Phone: +676 864-2633 / +676 7745984

Rugby reform could open World Cup door for Wallabies star sacked over homophobic remarks

Charles Piutau and Malakai Fekitoa (PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES)

E n g l a n d (RUGBYPASS:) World Rugby are set to take a vote on proposed changes to international eligibility which could make it considerably less difficult for players to switch their test allegiances.

According to The Telegraph, World Rugby are preparing to vote on a proposal that would allow players to switch nations after a three-year standdown period, provided that their parents or grandparents were born in the nation to which they’re intending to switch their allegiances.

Under the current rules, once a player has played test rugby, they’re locked to that country for life – unless they’re able to utilise the sevens ‘loophole’.

As such, there’s a significant number of players – primarily from the Pacific Islands – who after playing a handful of tests for the likes of New Zealand, Australia and England, are unneeded by their chosen nation but could make a huge difference to a tier-two side for which they would normally be eligible.

Examples include the likes of Charles Piutau, Steven Luatua and Nathan Hughes, who all played their ‘final’ tests at a relatively young age and are now frozen out from partaking in international rugby.

The likes of Malakai Fekitoa and Lopeti Timani have both used sevens to switch nations from NZ and Australia to Tonga, but that rule is considered needlessly

complex and locks out players who aren’t built for the compacted form of the game.

While the movement to change the stringent eligibility requirements has the backing of various World Rugby member unions, 75 per cent of the unions (39 out of 52) would need to agree with the changes for them to progress.

“We can’t compete with other countries with the resources they can throw around,” Peter Harding, chief executive of the Tongan Rugby Union, told The Telegraph.

“We are a country with 100,000 people so getting a little bit of help in competing is not too much to ask.

“The best players in the world come from here, so everyone is always after

them … This would be a game-changer if we can get some of those players back. If you include the first generation players then there’s well over 1,000 players in other countries because they have emigrated for better opportunities.

“The thing with Island players is just because they have got another passport they are not from that country. Their family connections to the Islands are much stronger than what Anglo-Saxon people have got. Their family connections and links to their roots are ingrained in their DNA.” The proposed change to the laws of the game was initially put forward by the Portugal Rugby Union, with World Rugby set to vote on the matter on November 24.

Sydney (MIRROR UK): Axed Australia talisman Israel Folau could make a return to the Test arena in time for the 2023 Rugby World Cup as the sport’s lawmakers consider an overhaul of eligibility rules.

The Telegraph reported World Rugby will take a vote this month on whether to relax the current laws, which would leave players free to play for a second nation after a three-year period without a Test cap.

As things stand, rugby players are not permitted to represent a second nation at Test level, although there is a loophole allowing players to switch if they take part in Olympic sevens qualifying events.

The new rules would also stipulate that the transferring player or their parents would have to be born in the country to which they intend on switching.

Folau, 32, had his Rugby Australia contract terminated in 2019 due to comments he made on Instagram, whereby he alleged “hell awaits” homosexuals unless they “repent” for what he perceived to be sins.

The full-back was born in New South Wales to Tongan parents, and he’d be imminently eligible to represent the Pacific nation provided the law change gets the thumbs up.