The Tongan Cabinet went on a retreat to the island of Pangaimotu on Friday, January 13, led by the Prime Minister, Lord Tu'ivakano.

The Chief Secretary and Secretary to Cabinet Busby Kautoke told Matangi Tonga today, that the retreat was an informal gathering of the Prime Minister and Ministers to discuss various issues, including the upcoming implementation of a newly structured government and the reshuffling of Ministerial portfolios.

Busby said that recommendations from discussions during the retreat would be submitted to Cabinet on Friday, January 20 for approval before release to the public. During the retreat, Cabinet also reflected on happenings during the past year.

The retreat was attended by ten of the 12 Government Ministers. The two Ministers unable to attend were the Minister of Police, Hon Lisiate 'Akolo and the Minister of Lands, Lord Ma'afu, who were overseas.

Earlier this month, Government released the proposed new government structure of 13 ministries and nine agencies:
1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
2. Prime Ministers Office
3. Ministry of Finance, National Planning & Revenue Services
4. Ministry of Public Enterprises
5. Ministry of Internal Affairs
6. Ministry of Justice
7. Ministry of Police, Prisons and Fire Services
8. Ministry of Health
9. Ministry of Education and Training
10. Ministry of Commerce and Tourism
11. Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Forests and Fisheries
12. Ministry of Infrastructure
13. Ministry of Lands, Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources

Agencies reporting to a Minister:
1. Defence Services
2. Public Service Commission
3. National Bureau of Statistics

Other Agencies (independent):
1. Legislative Assembly
2. Palace Office
3. Lord Chancellor's Office
4. Attorney General's Office
5. Audit Office
6. Commissioner for Public Relations