Sub-regional Fono to improve key thematic areas in Tonga [1]
Thursday, August 17, 2023 - 19:02
The Prime Minister, Hon. Hu'akavameiliku delivered the keynote address at the Polynesia Public Service Commissioners Sub-Regional Fono yesterday, in Nuku'alofa.
The meeting is held from 16-18 August at Tanoa Hotel, and hosted by Public Service Commission.
The sub-regional meeting is designed for Pacific Public Service Commissioners by the Public Service Fale in New Zealand and aims to re-establish direct connections between colleagues to gather Commissioners' feedback on priorities, themes and interest areas to be included in the planning of the annual Fono held in Wellington, New Zealand in November 2023.
The Pacific-led Public Service Fale was established in January 2020 to serve and facilitate Pacific Public Service Commissioners in achieving their goals and strengthening public services for their citizens. Sixteen Pacific Countries are served by the Fale, including Tonga.
The Fale Governance Board is chaired by Hon. Luamanuvao Dame Winne Laban and is made up of representatives from the three sub-regions of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia, with the New Zealand and Australia Public Service Commissions having observer status on the board.
The Fale's work program focuses on three key thematic areas: Digital Connectivity, Leadership Development, and Strengthening Governance.
The Chairman of the Public Service Commission said, "This gathering serves as a preliminary step as we gear up for the upcoming annual Pacific Public Service Fono, where comprehensive discussions on future Public Service plans will be deliberated upon."
Distinguished delegates from the Polynesian Countries of the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau and Tuvalu attended the Fono, with secretariat and coordination support provided through the Public Service Fale of the New Zealand Public Service Commission.
This Fono also hosted Commissioners, Chairpersons, CEOs and Senior Management staff representing the Public Service Commission Office from the Polynesian Countries.