The Dean resignation requires an explanation

Tourism is the largest industry in the Cook Islands and is without question the backbone of our economy. It contributes by far the greatest to our GDP. It provides job opportunities for some 80% of the private sector employees through goods, services and related commercial activities. It provides cash in hand for the Mamas who sell eis, fruits and artefacts. It gives some rationality to our already heavily imbalanced Balance of Trade. It provides hope of a career for our young people and a very good reason for staying in the Cook Islands. It is at the heart of our future development and the continuing wellbeing of our economy.
Anything, therefore, that is likely to disturb this critical industry in a negative manner needs to be sorted out promptly and transparently and at the highest level.
My fear is that John Dean’s resignation may well have a negative impact on the industry. Already ripples of concern are sweeping through the industry and the rumour mill is busy. All sorts of allegations are being made and are further fuelled by statements made by the principal actors in this drama which do not agree.
The industry should not be left wondering in this manner. Confidence within the industry must be restored as quickly as possible. I believe that the Minister of tourism should step up to the task, provide a clear explanation and repair what I believe is a retrievable situation.
Since his employment, John Dean has pretty much kept his thoughts out of the public arena preferring to let his work and results speak for him. From the beginning he was determined to expand the numbers of tourists from Australia. This has happened. He was determined to have a direct service out of Sydney. This has happened but for a matter of a few dollars. Not only has he expanded our tourism numbers for the calendar year 2009, we have passed the 100,000 mark with flying colours – and during a time when a financial tsunami was sweeping the world!!
What could possibly have triggered his resignation when he has performed after only two years into his contract? It surely cannot be his age since the Tourism Board knew that he would turn 65 during the course of his contract! The man is possessed of vast experience in the industry and should not be let go this easily. The industry as a whole has confidence in him, which is important.
I believe that the Minister should intervene now and dowse any fires that may be burning within the corporation and effect a resolution to the satisfaction of all, restore confidence within the industry and let John Dean get on with his job.