NZ contributes $10.2 million to Cook Islands renewable energy programme
The New Zealand government has agreed to contribute $10.2 million towards the Cook Islands renewable energy programme.
The agreement was signed in the Cabinet Room at 9.30am on Thursday between the New Zealand High Commissioner, His Excellency John Carter on behalf of the NZ Government and Cook Islands Prime Minister Hon Henry Puna and Finance Minister Hon Mark Brown on behalf of the Cook Islands government.
Also present to witness this historic occasion were Ministers Bishop and Glassie. The Cook Islands newly appointed Energy Commissioner Roger de Bray was also present along with staff of the OPM’s Renewable Energy Division.
Before the signing ceremony, John carter spoke first. He said the NZ government was very pleased to contribute to the renewable energy programme. He said it signaled a major step forward for the Cook Islands and NZ was hugely supportive of the achievable goal of 100 per cent renewable energy by 2020. Carter said the NZ government applauded the Cook Islands on a significant step. He said Energy Commissioner Roger de Bray has some challenges ahead. Carter said the renewable energy programme showed leadership and that the Cook Islands was leading the world.
Prime Minister Puna in reply thanked the New Zealand government on its very generous assistance and contribution to government achieving its energy policies. He referred to the special relationship with NZ and went on to officially welcome Roger de Bray as the new Energy Commissioner. Puna thanked the NZ High Commissioner and said on behalf of the Cook Islands and government he accepted the contribution with appreciation.
Following the signing and before refreshments, John Carter mentioned he would be participating in a public function at the weekend and said he would be happy if the PM directed Finance Minister Brown to attend and make a personal contribution. Carter indicated he would be enormously satisfied, personally, if Brown could do this. -Charles Pitt

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