Agriculture reports funding surplus
By Charles Pitt,
Political Editor

The Ministry of Agriculture ended last financial year (30 June 2006) with a surplus of $77,648 when nett expenditure is taken into account.
The Ministry’s nett appropriation was $1,190,440 and it spent $1,112,792. This represents a saving of 7%.
This information comes from the Ministry’s annual report which was tabled in Parliament when the House resumed on Wednesday 13 December 2006. Copies of the report are available from parliament at a cost of $15.
Secretary for Agriculture Nga Mataio reports it was a busy year and its finances were in a healthy state.
While some outputs were overspent, (operating expenses were 11% over budget), the report advises that higher revenue was generated than had been budgeted (trading revenue was up 32% than forecast).
Higher charges put in place last October at Punanga Nui market helped the increase. Also there was under expenditure in depreciation of assets.
The 32 % increase ($68,000) in trading revenue was notable. Revenue had been forecast at $144,000 but $212,002 flowed into the coffers. The income from the Punanga Nui market had been forecast at $50,000 but $84,012.28 was collected. Sales of plants and quarantine fees collected were slightly below forecast.
On the other side of the ledger, it is noted that bad debts amounted to $17,440. The Ministry made a saving of 23.5% on its power bill, paying just $12,161.09.
The Ministry overspent its advertising and broadcasting budget by a whopping 845.6%. It had budgeted $315 and spent $2,978.72.
HELP
Mataio’s report highlighted a number of issues which needed to be stated.
Without the assistance of outside agencies it would have been extremely difficult for the Ministry to adequately address some of the concerns relating to development of the sector. Assistance from the FAO (United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation) and SPC (Secretariat of the Pacific Community) towards agricultural rehabilitation following the 2005 cyclones was well received.
Local food production needs to be increased to meet local demand due to the increase in tourism. This demand is being met by food imports.
The Ministry needs to market itself more often and more openly promote its services.
The SPC facilitated exercise on reviewing the bio-security legislation needs to be completed. Outer islands agriculture needs to be strengthened in the face of depopulation and the Punanga Nui market requires further structural and management improvements in view of its increased significance as a venue for small business and community based activities.
The report also makes a number of recommendations. Among these are;
n A call for more long term study awards to be earmarked for agriculture. In the last 10 years the average has been one new award every three years. There should be an award each year to ensure trained staff levels are maintained.
n The regulatory arm in terms of border control needs to be significantly strengthened. Increased traffic flow calls for more manpower and resources for quarantine.
n An all weather stage on the eastern side next to the playground would assist many potential promotional activities.
n Increased transparency is needed to combat ongoing public criticism.
In the report Mataio also points to initiatives to strengthen management, skill development and training.
Mataio operates an open-door policy where staff can see him at any time without appointment. This is especially welcomed where the media is concerned. Access to this Head of Ministry is actually encouraged. Other Ministries take note.

Headlines : Times 181 18 Dec 2006
- Audit Shocks: Ex-Health boss overpaid $6000
- Health cash gift ‘stolen’
- $36,950 ‘FEES’: Dual roles a conflict of interest for chairman
- Slow progress with projects
- TIVAIVAI TALENT: Tungane Broadbent features in Brisbane
- Bridge work at O’oa, Matavera
- Cook Islands skater joins top team
- Agriculture reports funding surplus

Headlines : Times 180 11 Dec 2006
- Women wanted: Why this man’s here
- Nanette’s report top in the islands
- TOURISM BOOST
- GET READY RARO
- Puna on Wigmore It’s right decision
- Why Wigmore win struck out
- Students endure tough week
- GET WITH GAMES
- Lafala a name to celebrate