Minister Updates House of Ariki on Forum Outcomes
Minister of Education Hon Teina Bishop took time out in his busy schedule on Thursday to brief the President of the House of Ariki Travel Tou Ariki on the outcomes of government’s participation at this year’s Pacific Leader’s Forum held in Auckland last week.
Minister Bishop saw this as an opportunity to keep the Ui Ariki informed of agreed decisions involving government on issues that impact on our people. Government recognizes the importance of keeping our Ui Ariki abreast of national issues and intends to continue to strengthen its partnership with our Traditional Leaders in recognition of their mana and status within the Cook Islands.
The Minister also met with representatives of the Koutu Nui recently to discuss and clarify government’s position regarding the issuing of exploratory fishing licenses. “There is a lot of misconception and misunderstanding out there so it is vital that we convey the right information,” said the Minister.
Equally important is to ensure that our Traditional Leaders also have the opportunity to discuss amongst themselves issues such as this so that there is consistency in the quality and level of advice being given and received.
Minister Bishop added that as Government continues to position itself internationally, it was equally important to ensure that the Traditional Leaders were accorded the proper protocols of being kept informed of these developments so there are no surprises.
President Travel Tou Ariki thanked Minister Bishop for this initiative and informed him that the House of Ariki is grateful to government for considering them at this time and will advise the Minister responsible of their responses to the Forum Outcomes Document in due course.
He is looking forward to meeting with the Koutu Nui also to exchange views on the exploratory licenses issue as they have not formally met since the death of the late President Te Tika Mataiapo Dorice Reid. “There are other matters we would like to discuss as well but right now, government has provided us with this opportunity which in my view is a step forward,” concluded Travel Tou Ariki.
- Minister for Education Media Release

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