Australian medical team treats Tongan heart patients [1]
Monday, October 20, 2008 - 16:34. Updated on Friday, February 20, 2015 - 20:52.
Highlights from Tonga's newspapers, October 15-16, 2008. An English translation summary by Tevita Fonua.
The Kalonikali reports that a 25 member medical team from Australia is working in Tonga for a fortnight under an AusAID project. Cardiologists in the team have identified 16-18 cases of children and adults for treatment. Surgeon Dr Andrew Cochrane said the team brought equipment so that the surgery could be performed at Vaiola Hospital and the patients would not have to travel overseas for treatment.
Also in the Kalonikali, Trade ministers from member countries of the Pacific and ACP will explore trade opportunities at a two-day conference in Nadi, Fiji on October 20-21 to discuss the latest development on EPA, the economic co-operation agreement with the EU. Trade officials were to meet with the ministers on October 16-17.
The Kele'a on October 15 reports that Taito Philip Field, the ethnic Samoan politician and founder of the Pacific Islanders Party, is keen to enter the New Zealand parliament and throw out what he claims are the un-Christian laws enacted during the stewardship of the Labor Party, including the legislation sanctioning gay marriage.
The Talaki on October 15 alleges that a male teacher at the Ha'apai High School slapped the face of a student during morning devotion, then pinched and injured her ear. She has since quit the government-owned HPS and will instead enrol at a Catholic school.
Concern was raised in parliament that the government is in no hurry to establish the Constitution and Electoral Commission.
The Taimi on October 15 reports that political activist 'Alani Taione had organized a fund-raising dinner in Auckland at $25 per person. But despite inviting ordained ministers and congregations, only 12 people turned up. 'Alani was aiming to raise $30,000 with which he was hoping to start a radio station, a woefully inadequate amount for such an enterprise, according to one veteran broadcaster. It was thought that 'Alani had roasted two cows for the dinner.
The Women's District Committees of Tongatapu have formed the Consumer Federation of Tonga, to look at problems affecting the quality of goods and services available in Tonga. They elected Mele 'Amanaki, who holds a MSc in Food Science and Technology, as president.