Untitled Document

SOLOMON ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

PEACE PLAN 2000

PROGRAMME OF ACTION
POLICY, OBJECTIVES, STRATEGIES AND TARGETS 2000 – 2002
HONIARA, JULY 2000

SOLOMON ISLANDS

PLAN STATEMENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

PART ONE: PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES
1.1 POLICY AND PRINCIPLES
1.2 NATIONAL OBJECTIVES

PART TWO: STRATEGIES AND TARGETS
2.1 MINISTERIAL FUNCTIONS
2.1.1 OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
2.1.2 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL UNITY, RECONCILIATION & PEACE
2.1.3 MINISTRY OF HOME AND ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS
2.1.4 MINISTRY OF FINANCE
2.1.5 MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY
2.1.6 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
2.1.7 MINISTRY OF FORESTRY, ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
2.1.8 MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, EMPLOYMENT AND TRADE
2.1.9 MINISTRY OF LANDS AND HOUSING
2.1.10 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
2.1.11 MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND PRIMARY INDUSTRIES
2.1.12 MINISTRY OF CULTURE, TOURISM AND AVIATION
2.1.13 MINISTRY OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
2.1.14 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES
2.1.15 MINISTRY OF POLICE AND JUSTICE
2.1.16 MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT, WORKS AND UTILITIES
2.1.17 MINISTRY OF MINES AND ENERGY
2.1.18 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
2.1.19 MINISTRY OF YOUTH, WOMEN AND SPORTS
2.1.20 MINISTRY OF FISHERIES AND MARINE RESOURCES
2.2: THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT BACKBENCHERS
2.2.1 PARLIAMENTARY SELECT COMMITTEE
2.2.2. BOARDS OF STATUTORY AUTHORITIES
2.2.3 SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS

PART THREE APPENDICES
A. CABINET SUBSIDIARY BODIES
3A.1 NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
3A.2 CABINET DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

PLAN STATEMENT (back to top)

This is a Peace and Justice Plan, born out of our humble beginnings and the human experience we have (travelled) and traversed together in the past twenty months but blended together with Almighty God's saving graces of faith, hope, and love. It is a humble Plan with a new beginning for a new Solomon Islands Society in the 21st Century. The Plan contains our intentions for legislative and policy directions and sign-posts of what we may and can do together for one another and for each other under the Leadership of the Government of the Coalition for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace. Justice and Peace are ordained inalianable rights of every child, women and man in Solomon Islands as they are for people in other parts of the world. Indeed, Justice and Peace do cover and subsume all the other fundamental human rights and freedoms of the individual as provided in our National Constitution and in the United Nations Charters. Today, we are called upon by the events of our own recent past to dedicate this Plan to Peace and Justice with unprecedented importance and prominence. We have decided to do so because those events have tested the fabrics of the safety, security, unity and solidarity of our young national life. Those tests have brought out into the open the real challenges of the ethnic differences that do exist and can persist in our rich cultural diversity. From now on, instead of allowing those differences to divide us further, we have chosen by our own willingness under this Plan to recognise and respect our inherent different cultural customs, traditions, norms, mores and practices in order for us to acknowledge and appreciate one another as having equal rights and freedoms under our Constitution and our Divine Creator. By this free choice, we are embarking on laying the foundation of Peace and Justice for Solomon Islands in the future. The Government's directions and sign-posts for development are contained in the details of the Programme of Action 2000 - 2002. These details are outlined under the Policy Principles and Objectives, Development Strategies and Programme Targets. In pursuing these targets, the Government is most mindful of the need for continuity in some of the programmes and projects. At the same time, necessary fundamental adjustments that would be conducive to sustainable progress and prosperity have to be made. It is Government's overall aim and commitment in the Programme to make the maximum use of the country's national resources for the maximum benefit of our people. The total development of the human being and society according to the principles of democracy as enshrined and entrenched in the National Constitution are an inseparable aspect and part of this aim and commitment. We shall undertake the implementation of the programme objectives, policies and targets with realism which lead us to understand that these are guidelines only to assist the Government of CNURP in the attempts and efforts to create an environment which will be conducive to real progress and meaningful development. With this fundamental understanding, we do call on and invite the Provincial Assemblies, Chiefs, Community Leaders, Women and Youth leaders, Churches, the Leaders in both the Public and Private Sectors and our genuine overseas friends to come forward and assist us to work towards finding a lasting peaceful solution to the country's social unrest as well as finding the pathway towards a better quality of life for all Solomon Islanders in terms of health, education and the availability of other basic services. This call and invitation is extended to the Leadership of both the IFM and the MEF along with the members of the MEF/Joint Operation. We pray and hope that these groups would respond positively to this humble call. It is intended that this program will be reviewed at an opportune time. But as we begin, we are now ready to work, and work hard. Let us , therefore, all work together for our beloved country, Solomon Islands, and for one another. There is a lot to be done and with only 1 year remaining we hope to achieve at least the programs and projects that can be realized. This needs the combined effort of all stakeholders and the civil society. Finally, your new Government under the CNURP Leadership is committed to Good Governance, transparency and accountability. I therefore, request all Solomon Islanders to work a little extra-harder, be committed and dedicated to whatever you do as we rebuild together our happy Isles, Solomon Islands, where Justice and Peace are restored and progress and prosperity are seen and felt. God Bless Our Solomon Islands.

Hon Manasseh Sogavare
MP Prime Minister

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (back to top)

The Government of the Coalition for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace wishes to acknowledge the efforts of the persons and organisations who have assisted in the production of this Programme of Action 2000-2002. The Members of the Drafting Committee who have spent their time and energy in putting the documents together are: Hon J.S. Tahua, Hon D. Philip and S. Alasia, as well as the members of the Government Caucus in particular Mr M. Mata and the Executive Secretary to the Chairman of the Government Caucus Mrs L. Alekera. The staff of the Office of the Prime Minister who kindly made funds available to meet the printing of this Volume are also acknowledged and I thank the Pacific Printers for printing and binding this work.

Hon William Haomae Chairman Drafting Committee of the Coalition for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace

PART ONE: PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES

1.1 PRINCIPLES (back to top)

(i) The following are the Principles which the government has adopted as guidelines for the process of national development and nation-building and for these purposes the Government shall:

(a) continue to uphold the democratic principles of universal suffrage and the responsibility of executive authorities to elected bodies;
(b) advance to uphold the principles of equality, social justice and the equitable sharing of the costs and benefits of the development of our resources;
(c) respect and enhance human dignity and strengthen the building of our communal solidarity;
(d) cherish and promote the different cultural traditions within Solomon Islands;
(e) ensure the active participation of our people in the governance of their affairs and provide within the framework of our national unity for the decentralisation of power;
(f) provide good leadership to encourage our people to be purposeful in the development of their resources and thereby be able to contribute to the building up of Solomon Islands to be an inclusive society in line with our traditional good cultural norms and practices;
(g) promote self-reliance as a means to encouraging our people to be productive in all spheres of development; and
(h) encourage partnerships in development and adopt a gender-balanced approach in education and employment on the basis of equal opportunity for all our people.

(ii) In formulation and enacting policies and legislation shall ensure that the authorities responsible for these tasks do adhere to the spirit and letter of the above principles.

1.2 NATIONAL OBJECTIVES (back to top)
In translating the foregoing Principles into practical measures for development and nation-building, the Government has set itself these following national objectives and strategies.

(i) Objectives
The objectives are to:

(a) finding a lasting solution to the social unrest on Guadalcanal and start the process of National reconciliation and healing;
(b) advance Solomon Islands for its entry into and existence during the Twenty-first(21st) century;
(c) achieve real and tangible economic growth in real per capital incomes;
(d) generate job opportunities for Solomon Islands growing labour force;
(e) promote a more equitable distribution of the benefits of development and improve social conditions, especially in the rural areas;
(f) maintain greater financial sustainability and stability;
(g) foster a greater sense of national unity and national identity; and
(h) improve the quality of life for all Solomon Islanders.

(ii) Strategies
The strategies for pursuing the above objectives are to:

(a) adopt a pro-active approach to finding a lasting solution to the social unrest on Guadalcanal and its effects;
(b) continue the development of the resource-based economy;
(c) develop other sectors with potential for growth and employment generation;
(d) develop selective industries and promote more export diversification;
(e) take appropriate steps to increase the level of savings to finance local investment and reduce overseas borrowing and dependence on external sources;
(f) encourage both local and foreign investment through appropriate incentive and institutional support;
(g) rationalise public investment programs and confine these to areas which are clearly justified in terms of expected future economic and social returns;
(h) give greater emphasis to the tourism sector because of its favourable growth potential in the medium term;
(i) continue to improve and expand the primary sector;
(j) actively encourage small-holder farming systems at both the commercial and subsistence levels;
(k) actively pursue down-stream processing in the timber industry;
(l) promote increased investment and direct such efforts to boat-building and construction activities;
(m) enhance efforts towards the manufacturing and industrial sectors to make them more efficient and competitive;
(n) implement provincial development objectives through - integrated rural development urban development progressive improvement of village and rural settlement acceleration of small-holdersagriculture and fisheries development establishment of cottage and small-scale industries - particularly in rural areas land-use plans provisions of rural infrastructure increased decentralisation provisions of social services.
(o) pursue the strategies for social development through - improving the quality of health care and education provision of welfare assistance to more disadvantaged areas of the community by a more target-oriented basic needs program provision of a policy on housing to the lower income groups assistance to women improvement of public transportation further enhancement of law and order improvement of leisure facilities protection of the natural environment.

PART TWO: STRATEGIES AND TARGETS 2.1 GOVERNMENT MINISTERIAL SUBJECTS 2.1.1 OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER (back to top)

(a) Coordination of Ministerial Functions
(b) Cabinet
(c) National Development council
(d) National Parliamentary and Political Affairs
(e) Constitutional Affairs and Amendments
(f) Information
(g) Honours and Awards
(h) National Security.
(i) Public Service
(j) In-service Training
(k) Manpower Deployment
(l) Constitutional & Legislative Reforms
(m) Public Service Reforms

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation
(b) Commission of inquiry
(c) Leadership Code Commission
(d) Ombudsman Commission
(e) Public Service Commission
(f) Judicial & Legal Service Commission
(g) Police and Prison Service Commission
(h) Teaching Service Commission
(i) National Education Commission([proposed)

2.1.2 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL UNITY, RECONCILIATION & PEACE (back to top)

(a) National Unity
(b) Peace Process
(c) Reconciliation and Healing Process
(d) Rehabilitation

2.1.3 MINISTRY OF HOME AND ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS (back to top)

(a) Citizenship
(b) Local Government - Honiara City Bill
(c) Births, Deaths and Marriages
(d) Electoral Functions
(e) Ecclesiastical Affairs
(f) Public Holidays
(g) Civic Affairs
(h) Cinematography & Censorship
(i) National Archives
(j) National Disasters
(k) Ceremonies
(l) Liquor Licensing

Statutory Authority

(a) National Disaster Council
(b) Honiara Town Council
(c) Electoral Commission

2.1.4 MINISTRY OF FINANCE (back to top)

(a) The Budget
(b) Banking
(c) Loans and Guarantees
(d) Statistics
(e) Treasury
(f) Internal Auditing, Systems & Stock verification
(g) Aid Management (Bilateral & Multi-lateral)
(h) Inland Revenue
(i) Customs & Excise
(j) Insurance
(k) Central Tendering
(i) Financial Management & Accountability
(m) Macroeconomic Policy
(n) Monetary and Fiscal Reforms
(o) Sectoral Reforms
(p) Institutional Reforms
(q) Gaming and Lotteries

Statutory Authority

(a) Central Bank of Solomon Islands
(b) Solomon Islands National Provident Fund
(c) Investment Corporation of Solomon Islands
(d) Development Bank of Solomon Islands
(e) Credit Union League
(f) Home Finance Corporation
(g) Peoples Bank (Proposed)
(h) Solomon Islands Unit Trust (Proposed)
(i) Auditor General Office
(j) Central Tender Board
(k) Gaming and Lotteries Board

2.1.5 MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY (back to top)

(a) Defence Force
(b) National Security
(c) SI National Reconnaissance and Surveillance Force
(d) Defence Training

2.1.6 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS (back to top)

(a) Foreign Affairs
(b) Diplomatic Relations - Bilateral & Multilateral
(c) Consular matters and Relations
(d) Protocols - ceremonials
(e) Representations - Overseas Missions
(f) Treaties and Conventions

2.1.7 MINISTRY OF FORESTRY, ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION (back to top)

(a) Forestry
(b) Research
(c) Environment and Conservation
(d) Timber Marketing and Research
(e) Licensing
(f) Wildlife

Statutory Authority

(a) North New Georgia Timber Corporation
(b) Timber Marketing Board (Proposed)

2.1.8 MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, EMPLOYMENT & TRADE (back to top)

(a) Investment
(b) Local Enterpreneurship
(c) Immigration
(d) Labour
(e) Trade and Testing
(f) Industrial Development
(g) Trade - Internal & international
(h) Commerce
(i) Registrar General
(j) Consumer Affairs

Statutory Authority

(a) Commodity Export Marketing Authority
(b) Solomon Islands Ports Authority
(c) Investment Board

2.1.9 MINISTRY OF LANDS & HOUSING (back to top)

(a) Lands
(b) Survey
(c) Hydrography
(e) Physical Planning
(f) Cartography
(g) Resettlement

Statutory Authority

(a) Home Finance Corporation

2.1.10 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL PLANNING & HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT (back to top)

(a) National Development Planning
(b) Manpower Planning
(c) Policy Evaluation and Monitoring
(d) Coordination and implementation of Programs
(e) Project Formulations, Appraisal & Funding
(f) Population Planning
(g) Provincial Development Unit

2.1.11 MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & PRIMARY INDUSTRIES (back to top)

(a) Agriculture
(b) Quarantine
(c) Livestock
(d) Research
(e) Extension
(f) Farm Management and Development

Statutory Authority

(a) Livestock Development Authority

2.1.12. MINISTRY OF CULTURE, TOURISM AND AVIATION (back to top)

(a) Tourism Development
(b) Cultural Affairs
(c) Aviation
(d) Meteorology
(e) National Museum
(f) National Art Gallery & Cultural Centre
(g) Relics, Monuments and Memorials

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau
(b) Civil Aviation Authority (proposed)
(c) Air Transport Licensing Authority
(d) National Cultural Commission (proposed)

2.1.13. MINISTRY OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT (back to top)

(a) Provincial Government Development
(b) Provincial Budgets
(c) Rural Development

2.1.14 MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES (back to top)

(a) Health & Medical Services
(b) Institutional infrastructure Development
(c) Environmental Health
(d) Social Welfare
(e) Health Education
(f) Population Control

Statutory Authority

(a) Medical Board
(b) Dental Board
(c) Hospital Board
(d) Nursing Council
(e) Pharmaceutical Board
(f) Practitioners Board

2.1.15 MINISTRY OF POLICE, JUSTICE DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY (back to top)

(a) Law and order
(b) Police Training
(c) Law enforcement and security
(d) Fire Service
(e) Vehicle Licensing and Registration
(f) Traffic
(g) Law Reform
(h) Public Solicitor
(i) Director of Public Prosecution
(j) Attorney General's chambers
(k) Fire Arms control and Licensing
(i) Judiciary

2.1.16. MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT, WORKS AND COMMUNICATIONS (back to top)

(a) Infrastructure Development (Road and Bridges)
(b) Shipping and Maritime
(c) Communications
(d) Postal Services
(e) Spectrum
(f) Television
(g) Land Transport
(h) Reef blasting

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands Water Authority
(b) Postal Corporation

2.1.17 MINISTRY OF MINES AND ENERGY (back to top)

(a) Mining
(b) Mineral Exploration
(c) Energy
(d) Water Resources
(e) Geology
(f) Licensing
(g) Hydrology
(h) Rural Electrification

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands Electricity Authority

2.1.18. MINISTRY OF EDUCATION (back to top)

(a) Institutional Infrastructure Development
(b) Education Policy
(c) Schools and Education Institutions
(d) Inspectorate
(e) Curriculum
(f) Selection and Guidance
(g) Informal Education
(h) Teaching Services
(i) Library Services
(j) Scholarships
(k) Pre-school and Kindergartens
(i) Vocational Schools

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands College of Higher Education

2.1.19. MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORTS AND WOMEN DEVELOPMENT (back to top)

(a) Youth Development
(b) Sports Development
(c) Women in Development
(d) Parks

Statutory Authority

(a) National Council of Women
(b) National Youth Congress
(c) National Sports Council

2.1.20 MINISTRY OF FISHERIES & MARINE RESOURCES (back to top)

(a) Fisheries & Marine Resources
(b) Aquaculture
(c) Research
(d) Extension
(e) Licensing and Inspection
(f) Rural Fisheries

2.1.1 OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

1. BACKGROUND

(I) The Office of the Prime Minister is fully responsible for the overall coordination of the Government through the Executive collective decisions of the Cabinet and Caucus.
(II) The Department of Public Service is being established to facilitate the efficient implementation of Government Policies and Programmes.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE

(i) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to this Office are:-

(a) Coordination of Ministerial Functions
(b) Cabinet
(c) National Development Council
(d) National parliamentary and Political Affairs
(e) Constitutional Affairs and Amendments
(f) Information
(g) Honours and Awards
(h) National Security
(i) The Public Service
(j) Manpower Deployment
(k) In-service Training

(ii) This Office is responsible and answerable for the Statutory Authorities:

(a) Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation
(b) Commission of Inquiry
(c) Leadership Code Commission
(d) Ombudsman Commission
(e) Public Service Commission
(f) Judicial & Legal Service Commission
(g) Police and Prison Service Commission
(h) Teaching Service Commission
(i) National Education Commission (proposed)

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Office are to:

(a) coordinate the work of all the Cabinet Ministers and their line Ministries;
(b) develop an information delivery system that plays its role in National development, unity and identity of the country;
(c) continue to develop the National Parliament infrastructure and services and Parliamentary practices;
(d) continue to develop the Solomon Islands National Constitution;
(e) improve bilateral relations with selected countries; and
(f) strengthen the Government's solidarity through full participation of the Government backbenchers.
(g) continue to develop a disciplined, efficient, effective and transparent Public Service; and
(h) continue to improve performance in the Public Service through appropriate manpower recruitment and training

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In pursuit of its objective, this Office will be guided by the Strategies:

(a) the establishment of a Political Security and coordinating unit;
(b) taking an active role in developing bilateral relationships with selected Asian countries;
(c) maintaining a legal adviser in the Prime Minister's Office.
(d) strengthening of In-service training at SICHE and ensuring that all established staff attend appropriate courses;
(e) continuing the Public Service Re-deployment exercise to ensure appropriate placement of staff;
(f) continue implementing the Public Service Structural Adjustment Programs;
(g) maintaining good industrial relations with the government workforce; and
(h) recruit a suitable person under Technical assistance to head the Public Service Department

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
The Office shall pursue the following program targets:

(a) coordinate the functions line Ministries;
(b) engage back-benchers as Board Chairpersons and Special assignments;
(c) lead a business delegation to Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and Republic of China;
(d) introduce the Leadership Code Commission's Repealing Act;
(e) review the overall Government performances;
(f) amend the Constitution for the life of Parliament to be extended from 4 to 5 years;
(g) continue to put in place an Act for the Terms and conditions of Former Prime Ministers and Governor Generals;
(h) establish a Political, Security and Coordinating Unit;
(i) arrange Provincial visits by the Prime Minister;
(j) coordinate and disseminate as widely as possible information on Government's development policies; and
(k) review and amend this Program of Action and incorporate other projects which may be made from time to time by the Minister responsible.
(l) review the Public Service wages and salaries
(m) continue with in service training
(n) continue to implement Public Service Structural adjustment programmes;
(o) the redeployment of staff
(p) recruit a suitable person under Technical Assistance to head the Public Service Department; and
(q) review and amend this Program of Action and incorporate other project which may be made from time to time by the Minister responsible.

2.1.2 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL UNITY, RECONCILIATION AND PEACE

1. BACKGROUND

The Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace is being established to facilitate the efficient and effective implementation of Government policies and programmes aimed at resolving the current ethnic tension on Guadalcanal and Malaita; restoring peace, safety and security; and promoting the enhancement of unity throughout the country. The Ministry shall also deal with National Reconciliation and healing.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) National Unity
(b) Peace process
(c) National Reconciliation and Healing
(d) Rehabilitation

(ii) The Ministry will be responsible for the Peace Advisory council (PAC) which will later be established as the Reconciliation and Peace Commission.

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) find a lasting solution to the social unrest on Guadalcanal and Malaita and any similar situations that might arise elsewhere in the country;
(b) promote, nurture and nourish national unity, dignity, identity, peace and security;
(c) encourage, enhance and enlighten national reconciliation and healing; and
(d) initiate and participate in rehabilitation programme.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by these strategies

(a) strengthening of the Ministry with adequate manpower and funds to deal with the social unrest on Guadalcanal and its effects;
(b) coordinate the peace, reconciliation and rehabilitation processes;
(c) appoint a Senior Minister as the Political head of the Ministry

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
The following Programme Targets will be undertaken and pursued, that is to:

(a) payment of compensation where appropriate;
(b) negotiate and formalise a ceasefire and peace settlement between MEF and IFM;
(c) formulate appropriate legislation to facilitate the peace process ie in terms of Amnesty and other related issues;
(d) seek funds to pay for compensation for damages to properties caused as a result of the social unrest on Guadalcanal;
(e initiate and implement the processes of national reconciliation and healing; and
(f) ensure the programming and implementation of rehabilitation of affected families and persons.

2.1.3: MINISTRY OF HOME AND ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS

1. BACKGROUND
The Ministry deals with internal matters which pertain to the government's responsibilities. It aims to present and promote the Solomon Islands image and to instil nationalism, patronism and pride to reflect upon the identity and expression of its citizens.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Citizenship
(b) Local Government - Honiara City Bill
(c) Births, Deaths and Marriages
(d) Electoral functions
(e) Ecclesiastical Affairs
(f) Gaming and Lotteries
(g) Public Holidays
(h) Civil Affairs
(i) Cinematography and Censorship
(j) National Archives
(k) National Disasters

(ii) This Ministry is responsible and answerable for these Statutory Authorities:

(a) Electoral Commission
(b) Constituency Boundaries Commission
(c) Honiara Town Council
(d) National Disaster Council
(e) Gaming and Lotteries Board
(f) Censorship Board

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) pursue and promote the criteria or what is accepted for the acquisition of citizenship in Solomon Islands;
(b) review and amend the Electoral Provisions Act and the Solomon Islands Constitution to provide for more efficient democratic electoral process in Solomon Islands.
(c) ensure the furtherance and proper coordination of ecclesiastical affairs of the people as provided for in the National constitution for the freedom of association and worship;
(d) improve the work of the Electoral Commission by providing proper and appropriate facilities for carrying out its tasks; and
(e) manage and promote disaster awareness and the dissemination of information to the people throughout the country for disaster preparedness and the efficient delivery of relief services to areas stricken by such disasters.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by the following strategies in pursuance of its objectives:

(a) ensuring fair and acceptable criteria for the acquisition of Solomon Islands Citizenships;
(b) keeping the National Parliament Electoral provisions Act and the National Constitution under careful scrutiny and examination to ensure the attainment of democratic fair representative government at all levels of the Solomon Islands Society;
(c) safeguarding the ecclesiastical affairs of the people in the exercise of their fundamental rights and freedoms as provided in the National Constitution;
(d) continuing to improve the administration infrastructure for performing electoral functions at all levels of representative government in the country; and
(e) continuing to improve the work of the National Disaster Council for disaster preparedness and relief work.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
The following program targets will be pursued:

(a) review and amend the Citizenship Act;
(b) review and assess the performance of the National Disaster Council with a view to enhancing its role and performance;
(c) work on the adoption of a national dress;
(d) continue to assess the number and boundaries of electoral constituencies;
(e) work closely with SICA; and
(f) review the coordination of National Disaster Council activities.

2.1.4: MINISTRY OF FINANCE

1. BACKGROUND
The diagnosis of the Public sector expenditure over the past years have revealed the need for the Ministry of Finance to restructure its Public Sector expenditure. The Ministry will focus on six major issues:

(a) the serious institutional, procedural, and processing problems of budgeting, investment planning and coordination.
(b) the accounting function is very weak, leading to poor control and non existence of Auditing;
(c) recurrent costs continue to be too high;
(d) expenditure pattern do not reflect the Governments priorities
(e) institutional and administrative capacity is both weak in the line Ministry and the government statutory bodies;
(f) the public sector investment programs are too large for the Government - implementation capacity.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Budget
(b) Banking
(c) Treasury
(d) Loans and Guarantees
(e) Statistics
(f) Internal Auditing, Systems and Verification
(g) Aid Management(Bilateral and Multi-lateral)'
(h) Inland Revenue
(i) Customs and Excise
(j) Insurance
(k) Gaming and Lotteries
(l) Central Tendering
(m) Financial management & Accountability
(n) Macro economic Policy
(o) Monetary & Fiscal Reforms
(p) Sectoral Reforms
(q) Institutional Reforms

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for these Statutory Authorities:

(a) Central Bank of Solomon Islands
(b) Development Bank of Solomon Islands
(c) Solomon Islands National Provident fund'
(d) Investment Corporation of Solomon Islands and its portfolio
(e) Solomon Islands Credit Union League
(f) Home Finance Corporation
(g) Solomon Mutual Insurance(SMI)
(h) Merchant Bank (proposed)
(i) Solomon Islands Unit Trust(proposed)
(j) Auditor Generals Office
(k) Central Tender Board

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) develop an efficient and effective fiscal and Monetary policies;
(b) develop and implement a Provincial Funding system'
(c) strengthen and ministerial staff through appropriate training;
(d) improve and strength and Revenue collection division;
(e) develop further the Loans and Security Act of 1979;
(f) reduce budget deficit
(g) improve budgetary discipline in all Ministries
(h) improve financial control and macro-economic management;
(i) broaden the base of the financial systems;
(j) improve availability of credit facilities in rural areas;
(k) attain an interest rate regime conducive to private sector;
(l) reduce inflation rate;
(m) restore foreign exchange reserve to satisfactory level;
(n) review, monitor and ensure an acceptable level of gaming especially casinos and their activities in the country.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
To pursue its objectives, the Ministry will be guided by these strategies:

(a) make budget more transparent, prepare realistic financing plan for all domestic and external resources, investment and recurrent expenditure, including debt services on a commitment basis;
(b) introduce a programme of budgetary and accrual accounting system into the budget;
(c) improve tax administration and collection
(d) reduce the overall budget deficit to levels sustainable with the domestic financial system;
(e) encourage the establishment of new financial institutions to increase competition and improve available services;
(f) maintain positive real interest rates and maintain a flexible interest rate policy;
(g) apply sound monetary and fiscal policies to bring down and stabilise the rate of inflation; and
(h) implement a review of tax and tariff structures to be consistent with macro economic and policy objectives.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme targets will be undertaken:

(a) privatisation of ICSI portfolio companies;
(b) budget preparation;
(c) review of import and export duty;
(d) review and broaden tax basis;
(e) review of the Government Accounting system;
(f) establishment of Public Enterprises unit;
(g) establishment of Public Expenditure;
(h) establishment of a Provincial Funding system;
(i) establishment of two separate Accounts under the consolidated fund:- one for recurrent expenditures and one for development expenditures
(j) review and revise banking and financial system legislation;
(k) review and revise the Central Bank Act;
(l) undertake other programmes which may be assigned by the responsible Minister and Cabinet from time to time; and
(m) undertake the following identified projects:-

(i) Merchant Bank Establishment
(ii) Henderson Runway
(iii) Unit Trust Establishment
(iv) Fuel Storage relocation

2.1.5: MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY

1. BACKGROUND This is a newly created Ministry which is to highlight the defence and national security of the country. The Defence Force will oversee National Security and in due course to establish air surveillance unit. In times of peace the Force would be required to engage in civil works and assist in times of natural disasters.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:-

(a) Defence Force
(b) National Security
(c) SI National Reconnaissance and Surveillance Force
(d) Defence Training

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives to be pursued are to:

(a) protect the country in times of emergency
(b) protect the Natural resources of the country
(c) engage in civil works and assist in times of natural disasters

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In pursuing its objectives the Ministry will adhere to the following strategies:

(a) legislation to establish the SI Defence Force for presentation in Parliament;
(b) establish an air surveillance unit
(c) build and improve Defence Force housing
(d) pursue training for the Force

6. PROGRAMME TARGETS These proposed program targets will be undertaken:

(a) recruit eligible personnel for the Defence Force
(b) introduce legislation to establish the Defence Force
(c) establish an air surveillance unit
(d) build and improve Defence Force Housing
(e) pursue training for the Force

2.1.6: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

1. BACKGROUND

(I) Before Independence (7 July 1978) Solomon Islands foreign relations were conducted by the British Colonial administration under the direction and supervision of their London-Based Foreign and Commonwealth Office(FCO). This responsibility was then formally transferred to the Solomon Islands government(SIG) as from Independence Day (7/7/78).
(ii) Initially Solomon islands established diplomatic ties with 32 other sovereign States and became a full-fledged member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth, the South Pacific Forum. In pursuing these new responsibilities, the SIG operated from a Home Base with a small staff under one Roving Ambassador/High commissioner who was at the same time permanent Secretary of the Ministry.
(iii) The Ministry's main task is to promote and safeguard the country's interests and good image overseas through maintaining and enhancing friendly and cordial relations with all sovereign states and international and regional organisations, especially those States with which it has formal diplomatic ties and the Organisations of which it is a member.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Foreign Affairs
(b) Diplomatic Relations - Bilateral & Multilateral
(c) Consular Relations and Consular matters
(d) Protocol ceremonials
(e) Overseas Missions Representation
(f) Treaties and Conventions

(ii) Presently the Ministry has no direct responsibility for any Statutory Authority.

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The Ministry is to pursue these objectives:

(a) review Solomon Islands Overseas representation with a view to achieving cost-effectiveness and efficiency;
(b) review and assess Solomon Islands relations with other States, International and Regional organisations and Institutions;
(c) maintain, support and assess the country's efforts of cooperation with other countries in the South pacific region;
(d) continue reviewing and assessing initiatives for the peaceful resolution of the Bougainville Crisis;
(e) assess the scope and need to establish Solomon islands resident representation in the Asian region;
(f) pursue drafting a Foreign Relations Bill and ensure its passage in Parliament;
(g) continue staff training to ensure efficient and professional service in the Ministry's management and operation.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In pursuit of its objectives the Ministry shall adopt and use these strategies:

(a) reassess the outcome of the study Mission that was sent to the Asian Region in 1995 with a view to establishing a resident diplomatic or consular mission in the region to cover the ASEAN sub-region;
(b) reassess Solomon Islands diplomatic relations with other status to determine the extent of benefits derived from those relationships;
(c) reassess Solomon islands membership of International and Regional Organisations to determine the extent of benefits derived from those association;
(d) continue to encourage the PNG Government and the BRA leadership to maintain dialogue as a means to seeking a negotiated peaceful solution to the Bougainville conflict;
(e) actively pursue the drafting of a Foreign Relations legislation as a framework for dealing with new Political occurrences
(f) ensure the cost-effective and efficient funding of Solomon Islands Overseas resident diplomatic and consular missions;
(g) continue to train and maintain a career diplomatic corps for the Ministry's home base and the country's overseas missions; and
(h) enhance and strengthen Solomon islands relations with the other Forum members countries as well as with the Melanesian Spearhead Group members.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These proposed programme targets shall be pursued:

(a) commission a study mission to the Pacific Rim countries;
(b) carry out an evaluation of Solomon Islands membership of International and Regional Organisations and Institutions and report thereon to the SIG;
(c) formulate and enact a Foreign Relations Bill by the end of 1998;
(d) undertake and evaluation report on Solomon islands diplomatic relations with other states;
(e) continue consultations with the PNG Government and the BRA leadership until there is peaceful resolution of the Bougainville Conflict with the aim of an early negotiated settlement;
(f) establish a resident mission, either diplomatic or consular, in the ASEAN region;
(g) establish a Diplomatic Training Corps and formulate a professional training programme; and
(h) continue to enhance performance and output by the career diplomatic corps.

2.1.7 MINISTRY OF FORESTRY, ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

1. BACKGROUND
This Ministry covers the overall performance of the forestry sector and the environment. The forestry resources of the country consist of both natural forests located mostly on customary land and plantation forestry. Concern has been expressed about sustainability of timber resources in the country and the effect of harvesting of timber resources on the environment and the natural heritage of the country. Currently, only 12% of the country's natural forest is suitable for being logged. The rate of replanting is such that it is now at par with the rate of harvesting natural forests. It is projected that reafforestation would exceed harvesting in the next five years. The forestry sector is currently the main revenue earner for the country and a major source of employment.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Forestry
(b) Research
(c) environment and Conservation
(d) timber marketing and Research
(e) Licensing

(ii) Statutory Authority

(a) North New Georgia Timber Corporation
(b) SI Timber Marketing Board(proposed)

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) ensure sound Forest management and land conservation practices so that forest resources are further developed and maintained in perpetuity.
(b) Improve the efficiency of forest industry production, strengthen value-added processing facilities and maximise the market value of logs;
(c) expand domestic and export market for plantation and indigenous timbers;
(d) support and promote the appropriate end-users of timbers;
(e) further involve owners in the ownership and operation of the timber industry;
(f) maximise employment opportunities an undertake greater manpower planning, development and training.
(g) promote public education awareness to increase environmental, social and economic benefits of forests;
(h) increase timber products, other than log exports for domestic consumption and export.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by these strategies in pursuit of its objectives:

(a) to amend certain provisions of relevant Forestry Acts;
(b) to ensure the sustainable harvesting of trees;
(c) encourage foreign investor in establishing processing plant in veneer and plywood for export;
(d) encouraging processing so that round log exports would be phased out;
(e) foreign investors and landowners will be encouraged to replant trees on logged land;
(f) emphasis will be placed on enabling resource owners to harvest their own resources on a sustainable basis; and
(g) encourage and assist resource owners in processing and exporting of their timber resources.

5. PROGRAMMES TARGETS
These programme targets will be pursued:

(a) implement a programme for policy development, administration and support services in these areas -

(i) management services;
(ii) training and education
(iii) timber utilisation, research and promotion; and
(iv) silvicultural research

(b) encourage foreign logging companies in replanting by applying appropriate administrative and legislative measures;
(c) continue with forestry expansion;
(d) establish a Timber Marketing Board
(e) review the forestry export quota;
(f) continue to encourage the privatisation of the reafforestation programmes and projects;
(g) improve and continue with forestry extension programme;
(h) review the sustainable quota for the harvesting of the rural forests;
(i) monitoring of the shipment of export round logs; and
(j) incorporate other programmes made in the course of this Parliamentary term by the Minister and Cabinet.

2.1.8: MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, EMPLOYMENT AND TRADE

1. BACKGROUND

(a) This covers both the local and foreign investment.
(b) Local and indigenous investors to date have been handicapped by lack of financial resources and management skills. The establishment of an indigenous enterprise division is being set up to oversee and coordinate government policies to overseeing this important area.
(c) Foreign investment interests in the country has been very low due to lack of infrastructure, political instability, unattractive incentive packages and unorganised land tenure system.
(d) Most Foreign Investors concentrate mostly on primary industries such as logging, fisheries and mining development;
(e) The overall aim of the Government is to promote potentially viable, efficient and appropriate industries to satisfy domestic and export markets.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Investment
(b) Local Enterpreneurship
(c) Immigration
(d) Labour
(e) Trade and Testing
(f) Industrial Development
(g) Commerce
(h) Internal and External Trade

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for these statutory authorities:

(a) Commodities Export Marketing Board
(b) Solomon Islands Ports Authority
(c) Foreign Investment Board
(d) Registrar of Corporate Affairs

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) encourage more foreign investors to invest in the country;
(b) encourage more indigenous people to participate in various investment;
(c) to diversify into new investment areas;
(d) to create more employment opportunities;
(e) encourage foreign investment as a means of transferring skills.
(f) encourage investment as a means of import substitution;
(g) Solomon Islands to invest in overseas countries through Unit Trust Development;
(h) reduce trade and balance of payment imbalances;
(i) seek better prices and quality supplies;
(j) encourage the re-export of other commodities;
(k) encourage trading with other Pacific Countries;
(l) maintain the growth of the labour force at a level that is compatible with the creation of employment opportunities;
(m) generate morel employment opportunities;
(n) improve labour's skills, performances and safely at work;
(o) improve employees and employer's relationship;
(p) encourage more Solomon Islanders to enter into various commercial activities;
(q) encourage improved commercial activities; and
(r) encourage cottage industries as a further means of self employment.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry shall be guided by these strategies in pursuit of its objectives:

(a) provide competitive and conducive foreign policy;
(b) establish necessary infrastructure;
(c) provide land for various instrument;
(d) reserve areas of investment opportunities for indigenous Solomon Islanders;
(e) in consultation with the Ministry of Finance, review present tax system, both direct and indirect tax to broaden the country's economic base;
(f) establish trade Consulars in some overseas countries;
(g) research into alternative sources of imports;
(h) encourage bulk purchases;
(i) create an Investment climate which will yield more job creations through increased foreign investment and by providing more development opportunities in the rural areas:
(j) provide more financial assistance to local Solomon Islanders through the judicious use of its fiscal and monetary policies;
(k) encourage more related and practical training to our local business people;
(l) allocate available land for development purposes; and
(m) support and encourage trade delegations to other trading partners.

5. PROGRAMME AND TARGETS

(I) THE Ministry will pursue these programme targets:

(a) review of the existing investment act;
(b) acquire new sites for Industrial development;
(c) identify and reserve areas of investment solely for Solomon Islands;
(d) review of the existing Immigration Act;
(e) review of the existing Labour Act;
(f) review of the existing Trade Dispute Act;
(g) identify and declare duty free zone;
(h) review of the existing company law;
(i) institute foreign and local investment awards;
(j) hold annual seminar with the private and commercial sectors;
(k) sponsor overseas trade mission;
(l) expand the local industries activities;
(m) prepare policy on the Foreign and Local investment aware; and
(n) promote local manufacture goods and agricultural commodities for export.

(ii) The following projects have already been identified:

(a) Coffee Processing Facility
(b) Cargo Vessels
(c) Private Sector initiatives
(d) rural Entrepreneurial initiatives (e) Provincial small scale development;
(f) N.Z. Micro-Projects;
(g) Bina Harbour and Noro Development
(h) Ranadi and Henderson Industrial Estate
(i) Review of the existing Foreign Investment Act
(j) Acquire new site for industrial development.
(k) Approval of about $50m-$100m worth of Foreign Investment.

(iii) Review the programme and incorporate any amendments of projects that may be made from time to time by the Minister and Cabinet.

2.1.9: MINISTRY OF LANDS AND HOUSING

1. BACKGROUND
New emphasis has been placed on the aspect of land in relation to its development, security, value and usage. The emphasis has convinced the government to isolate this resource to be treated under one specific new portfolio called the Ministry of Lands.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Lands
(b) Survey
(c) Hydrography
(d) Cartography
(e) Physical Planning
(f) Housing
(g)1 Resettlement Schemes

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) distribute residential, industrial, civil and public land in urban and semi-urban areas according to need;
(b) in consideration of limited land in urban centres the maximisation of land will be encouraged in conjunction with proper planning for public utilities such as roads, drainage's and water mains;
(c) regulate a housing policy for the country in conjunction with basic housing needs in urban areas and rural communities;
(d) maximise the security of Government, freehold and customary land in the country with the view to increasing value per unit of land, security for investment and other usages of land;
(e) examine and evaluate developed and undeveloped alienated land for their return to original landholding groups or tribes either for resettlement or development;
(f) evaluate and assess the basis and management of the customary land recording Act;
(g) establish a competent and efficient land management unit for the compilation and dissemination of land usage and development information;
(h) review the Land Titles Act and other relevant legislation's with a view to vesting the final decision on customary land disputes in the Chiefs; and
(i) identify opportunities areas for proper development.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by these Strategies:

(a) immediate reviewing of lands that have been lawfully granted but have not been developed.
(b) initiating moves and strategies to institutionalise land and to increase land security in rural communities;
(c) examine and evaluate developed and undeveloped alienated land for their return to original landholding groups or province;
(d) establishing a Physical Planning Unit drawn from developers and planners for the re-planning of Honiara city and other provincial centres; and
(e) regularising and standardising policies in urban, semi-urban and rural areas.

5. PROGRAMME OF ACTION
These programme targets will be pursued:

(a) appoint, as soon as possible, a new Commissioner of lands;
(b) return Gizo Forestry Project to original landowners;
(c) return selected alienated lands to original landowners'
(d) appoint and train land Recording Officers;
(e) complete the work on peri-urban policy on TOL areas;
(f) establish a computer system on land information;
(g) carry out a pilot programme on customary land reform system;
(h) implement the government's Housing policy and review the housing estate along Kukum Highway;
(i) review the Lands and Titles Act; and
(j) review the Programme of Action and incorporate any projects that may be made from time to time by the Minister or Cabinet.

2.1.10: MINISTRY OF NATIONAL PLANNING AND HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

1. BACKGROUND

(I) This Ministry is pivotal to planned and properly coordinated development. From its position of responsibilities, it is able to have an overview of all sectoral and provincial planning activities and programmes. It, therefore, has to ensure that plans, programmes and projects are implemented, monitored and reviewed in line with approved policies and legislative provisions for which expenditure is authorised by Parliament through the Annual Budget Estimate and the National Development Plan.
(ii) The Programme of Action contains the Guidelines for the formulation and implementation of projects for development in any given period within the time span of the National Development Plan which, may range from five to twenty years. The task of project identification, necessarily, is the responsibility of the other ministries. For the purposes of this present Programme of Action, the chosen time span for the National Development is five years.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) the Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:-

(a) National Development Planning
(b) Human Resources Development Planning
(c) Policy Evaluation and Monitoring
(d) Project Formulation, Appraisal and Funding.
(e) Programmes Implementation and Coordination
(f) Population Planning and Monitoring

(ii) Presently the Ministry has no direct responsibility for any Statutory Authority.

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The overall objectives to be pursued are to:-

(a) oversee, coordinate and monitor overall, national development;
(b) coordinate the implementation of the Programme of Action;
(c) monitor and review sectoral programmes;
(d) evaluate and monitor policies and programmes formulation and implementation; and
(e) coordinate provincial development plans and programmes.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The strategies and Targets to be pursued will be to:

(a) review all planning activities which had been undertaken during the past twenty years(1978-1997);
(b) the preparation of Five National Development Plans;
(c) prepare and draw up a Human Resources Development Plan for the period 1998-2008;
(d) the preparation of a Population Plan following the National Census;
(e) the coordination and monitoring of the implementation of the Programme of Action;
(f) carrying out policy evaluation and monitoring;
(g) assessing and coordinating foreign aid programmes;
(h) assisting provincial authorities with the training of their planning staff;
(i) the reorganisation of the Ministry for effective and efficient performance for productive output;
(j) the further development of the role and work of the National Planning Consultative Committee;
(k) assisting in the servicing of the National Development Council; and

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These proposed programme targets shall be pursued:

(a) review planning activities;
(b) prepare and complete the following Plans -

(i) The National Development Plan
(ii) A Human Resource Development Plan;
(iii) A Population Plan;

(c) coordinate and monitor the implementation of the Programme of Action;
(d) carry out policy evaluation and monitoring;
(e) assess and coordinate foreign aid programmes;
(f) undertake training courses for provincial planning staff
(g) reorganise the Ministry for effective and efficient performance for productive output;
(h) further develop the role and work of the National Planning Consultative Committee;
(i) participate in the servicing of the National Development Council; and
(j) perform any other tasks as may be assigned from time to time.

2.1.11: MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

1. BACKGROUND

(i) Solomon Islands is an agrarian country with 85 percent of the population living in the rural areas. They are dependent on agriculture for their livelihood and as a main source of income. There are basically three main agricultural sub sectors in the country, namely:

(a) the small holder sub-sector which is dominantly for subsistence but increasingly involved in cash crop production;
(b) the intermediate communal sub-sector which comprises communally owned agricultural enterprises and are commercially oriented entities; and
(c) the large-scale commercial sub-sector which comprises large commercial companies and which operates on alienated and registered land;

(ii) However, plans to develop the Agriculture Sector to increase production capacity for export have not been as successful as expected;
(iii) the Ministry of Agriculture has been established to emphasise the Government's drive to aggressively developed this important sector to meet both domestic consumption and overseas export.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Agriculture
(b) Quarantine
(c) Livestock and Horticulture
(d) Extension Services
(e) Farm management and Development

(ii) the Ministry is responsible and answerable for this Statutory Authority

(a) Livestock Development Authority

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry for Agriculture are to:

(a) increase output and productivity in food gardening(excluding rice);
(b) increase copra and coconut oil export;
(c) increase cocoa export;
(d) increase oil palm export;
(e) increase spices development and export;
(f) increase rice production;
(g) increase domestic coffee productions;
(h) embark on Irish potato development
(i) continue beef cattle development and increase domestic beef production for domestic market;
(j) establish and develop dairy farming;
(k) increase pig production;
(l) increase the production of chicken meat and eggs
(m) increase goat production
(n) improve production and marketing of bee-keeping products
(o) improve the capacity for successful marketing of agricultural produce; and
(p) strengthen institutional arrangements for all areas of Agriculture;

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In the field of Agriculture the Ministry will be guided by the strategies:

(i) priority will be placed on

(a) rural areas facing population and development pressures:
(b) areas that would provide food crops for urban markets: and emphasis will be on increased training, extension, capital assistance, research, demonstration and input supply for food production;
(b) maximising production potential from existing coconut plantations: this includes assisting small-holder farmers in production of high quality copra, replanting of senescent palms and control of pests and disease and marketing;
(c) assisting farmers to increase cocoa planting where appropriate, encouragement of intercropping with coconut and other suitable crops, provisions of drier parts and training in processing, provisions of seeds, pest and disease control;
(d) encouraging SIPL and Silvania Plantations(SI) Ltd to increase land under palm oil production and encouragement of out-growers
(e) priority will be placed on Nepalese Akabose chilli for domestic and export markets as well as vanilla on the Guadalcanal Plains and other suitable areas in the provinces for export, and chilli output will be assisted in terms of production, distribution of seeds, extension, training, distribution of drier parts and marketing;
(f) priority will be placed on assisting groups, families, individuals and schools venturing into rice production which will include extension and advice, in some instances, infrastructure developments seed storage and processing facilities;
(g) encourage Arabica and robusta Coffee plantings on Guadalcanal and Isabel and other highland areas for processing and marketing;
(h) expanding the Irish potato programme now underway in Malaita Province highlands and looking into post-harvest storage;
(i) establishment of an elite breeching herd at Tenavatu Farm for improve progene and then distributing this to selected farms particularly ranches and designated breeding farms around the country;
(j) establishing a programme to developing dairy farming in certain parts of the country;
(k) assisting farmers with breeding stock and facilitating the establishment of two additional 250-300 sower units on Guadalcanal by the private sector and assistance with down stream processing of pig products;
(l) encouraging commercial chicken operations around urban centres and in particular Honiara and improving a dual purpose flock at Tenavatu Farm to supply stock to farmers with a view to improving village progeny;
(m) distributing goats to farmers and promotion of leathering amongst small-holder farmers;
(n) developing and exploring marketing arrangements and markets for honey and other products, improving the quality of honey in the country and strengthening the Honey Producers Co-operative, encouraging farmers to have more hives;
(o) marketing skills need to be developed in order to seek and secure markets in both the local and export fields. Assistance is required in surveying and documenting producing capacity and in identifying produce with export potential;
(p) priority would be in training and extension, research and management;

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
The Ministry will pursue these programme targets:

(a) identify landholding groups to offer land and in conjunction with Dodo Creek Research personnel develop the land for commercial tree crops and other farms of Horticulture;
(b) identify individuals or family groups around the perimeter of Honiara who own tillable land to encourage and assist them to develop source farms to supply upcoming tourism programmes as well as the general public;
(c) identify interested entrepreneurs to set up good processing plants as well as dairy plants and such people will be given government support;
(d) identify landholding groups or individuals who are interested in beef cattle, production of chicken, meat and eggs, pig production, dairy farm development, Irish potato development, coffee production, goat production and bee-keeping development or any other agricultural products to be assisted directly by the government;
(e) develop and sub-divide the ex-Solrice land at Guadalcanal Plains and allocate plots to interested individuals, groups or communities for food production;
(f) establish the pineapple juice processing plant in Malaita and other Provinces;
(g) establish a dairy plant in a modules system in Honiara, Noro or Bina;
(h) establish a central coffee processing plant on Isabel; and
(i) develop water resources in economic potential areas;
(j) continue the women's Agriculture and Extension programme;
(k) improve the National Vegetable Demonstration Farm;
(l) provide improved fruit trees and vegetables varieties to farmers through the Dodo Creek Research Station;
(m) promote improved husbandry practices (including inter-cropping) for improve disease and pest control;
(n) provide assistance to farming groups to establish vegetables to supply urban centres starting with Honiara;
(o) pursue oil palm out-grower schemes;
(p) promote chilli seed production, processing and marketing;
(q) do a nucleus stage with small-holder farmers operating as satellite growers on the Guadalcanal Plains;
(r) promote further community rice production;
(s) develop a coffee processing facility;
(t) revitalise the cattle development programme; and
(u) enlarge the bee-keeping project

2.1.12: MINISTRY OF CULTURE, TOURISM AND AVIATION

1. BACKGROUND

(I) As the biggest and growing international industry tourism can provide a major and expanding source of foreign exchange earnings for Solomon Islands. In the short term to medium term, the tourism sector appears to be best placed in terms of economic base diversification, contribution to the economic growth and employment generation.
(ii) The development of the tourism industry along with the improvement of aviation services would contribute to the promotion and preservation of the people's rich cultural diversity.
(iii) Aviation includes the management of air transport policies, meteorological service and the airport terminal. To date, all services under this Division need to be improved in effectiveness and efficiency.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:-

(a) Tourism Development
(b) Aviation
(c) Meteorology
(d) Cultural Affairs
(e) National Museum
(f) National Art Gallery & Cultural Centre
(g) Relics, Monuments & Memorials

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for the statutory authorities:

(a) Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau
(b) Civil Aviation Authority (proposed)
(c) Air Transport Licensing Authority (ATLA)
(d) National Cultural Commission (proposed).

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry in its sectors are:

(a) ensure that tourism development is in harmony with national development policies and development;
(b) increase tourist arrivals through continuous hotel development, improved runway and completion of the Terminal building;
(c) build an international airport in the Western Province;
(d) increase the level of tourism awareness among local people and visitors to Solomon Islands;
(e) increase the level of tourism awareness among local people and visitors to Solomon Islands;
(f) ensure that adverse effects on local customs and cultures are avoided and the National culture is enhanced;
(g) promote and develop eco-tourism and natural sites; and
(h) put in place a National Cultural policy.

(ii) In the area of culture the objectives are to -

(a) promote cultural programmes in urban and rural areas;
(b) establish an appropriate National Cultural Policy and legislation;
(c) research into the establishment of a National Council of Chiefs.

(iii) In Aviation the objectives are to -

(a) continue to improve air services to the rural areas;
(b) encourage Solomon Airlines to increase its foreign exchange earnings;
(c) continue to provide and improve navigational facilities to local and international air services; and
(d) establish additional weather station, widening the scope-observation of existing stations and improving the network of climatology and rainfall observation.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In pursuing its objectives the Ministry will be guided by these strategies:-

(a) encourage more private investment in the tourism sector. In this regard more Hotels should be built in and around Honiara to provide springboard to the rural areas;
(b) government should utilise its taxation policy to entice investors to invest in the tourism sector;
(c) local financing institutions should be encouraged to channel more financial resources to hotels and tourism related activities;
(d) improve the internal transport and communication system;
(e) continue the programme of construction of new airfields in the remote areas, where the demand for air services in terms of efficiency and cost justify their construction;
(f) investigate the possibility of the introduction of competitive airlines to improve air services in terms of efficiency and costs;
(g) ensure that domestic operations maintain a high level of safety;
(h) up-date and improve air services and air navigational facilities and cope with changing technology;
(i) establishment of additional weather stations, widening the scope - observation of existing stations and improving the network of climatology and rainfall observation;
(j) upgrading equipment and improving date acquisition, data, storage, quality control and supervision; (k) further development of electrical climatological data-processing in Honiara;
(l) closer liaison and greater co-operation with users of the metrological/climatological information;
(m) widening the scope of information services for specific needs of weather sensitive industries, in particular, agriculture, transport, water resources and energy; and
(n) construction of Headquarters and institutional residences;
(o) promote cultural programmes in urban and rural areas;
(p) establish appropriate National Cultural Policy and legislation;
(q) research into establishment of a National Council of chiefs.

5. PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS
The major projects are -

(a) construction of new airfields;
(b) further improvement of Solomon Airlines;
(c) completion of Henderson Terminal;
(d) construction of an international airport in the Western province
(e) development of runaway extension and upgrading of NAVAIDSI;
(f) maintenance of Provincial Airfields;
(g) establishment of the Civil Aviation Authority
(h) development of Anuha Tourist Resort
(i) development of Mamara-Mavo-Tasifarongo project
(j) construction of MET headquarters;
(k) marketing promotions and publications;
(l) upgrading of secondary infrastructure;
(m) development of the National infrastructure for tourism development'
(n) tourism awareness programmes;
(o) build additional 1,000 rooms.

6. PROGRAMME OF ACTION

(a) improvement of existing airfields and terminals and constructing selected new ones;
(b) further improvement of Solomon Airlines;
(c) completion of Henderson Terminal;
(d) development of Runway extension and upgrading NAVAIDS;
(e) establishment of Civil Aviation Authority;
(f) construction of an international airport in the Western Province;
(g) development of Anuha Tourist Resort;
(h) promotion of eco-tourism and natural sites;
(i) meteorology services, improvements and construction of its Headquarters
(j) expansion and upgrading of National Museum, National Art Gallery and Cultural Centre;
(k) establish appropriate National Cultural Policy and Legislation
(l) establish National Council/House of Chiefs;
(m) incorporate other programmes later as and when required and approved by the Minister and Cabinet;

2.1.13: MINISTRY OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

1. BACKGROUND

(i) This Ministry if charged with the responsibility of developing the Provincial Government system as stipulated in section 114 of the National Constitution.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) the Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Provincial Government Development;
(b) Rural Development;
(c) Provincial Elections;
(d) The Provincial Development Unit;
(e) Provincial Funding Systems;
(f) Provincial Budgets;
(g) Provincial Local Authorities;
(h) The Role of Traditional Chiefs

(ii) Presently the Ministry has no direct responsibility for any Statutory Authority.

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) review the Provincial Government system;
(b) allocate and transfer certain percentages of state revenues to the Provincial Governments;
(c) assist Provincial Governments in drawing up their Plans for rural development in their individual provinces.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by these strategies:

(a) carrying out the implementation and enforcement of the Provincial Government Act 1996;
(b) ensuring the availability of financial and manpower resources for the establishment and working of Provincial Councils and Area Assemblies throughout all the Provinces;
(c) putting into place proper measures which would ensure that the Provinces do derive real benefits from their own resources; and
(d) directing more emphasis to be placed on infrastructures development in the Provinces such as roads, wharves and bridges;

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme target will be undertaken:

(a) review the Provincial Government system
(b) introduce better and proper funding systems for the Provinces;
(c) convene conferences of the Provincial Premiers;
(d) work out and apply the sharing of certain percentages of revenue/levy for the Provinces; and
(e) undertake any other tasks as may be directed by the Minister and the Cabinet from time to time.

2.1.14: MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES

1. BACKGROUND
This Ministry is concerned with Health and Medical matters and the portfolio subjects outlined below:

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Health Services
(b) Medical Services
(c) Nursing Services
(d) Hospitals and Clinics
(e) Public Health
(f) Traditional Medicine
(g) Rural Water Supply and Sanitation
(h) Population Control
(i) Health Education
(j) Social Welfare
(k) Private Medical Practice
(l) Red Cross and the Rehabilitation of the disabled persons.

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for these statutory authorities

(a) Hospital Board
(b) Medical Board
(c) Pharmacy Practitioners Board
(d) Nursing Council

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) work towards the general acceptance of the Primary health Care programme to achieve the global aim of "Health for all" by the year 2000.
(b) strengthen preventive health services through the Primary health care programme;
(c) improve and strengthen Hospital and clinical services; (d) increase the training of medical and health personnel;
(e) ensure the attainment of a population growth rate at a level which is conducive to better health standards of living;
(f) ensure that there is a place for traditional medicine practitioners in the Health and medical system; and
(g) provide assistance to charitable organisations such as the Red Cross and the disabled Persons Association.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by the following strategies:

(a) amend relevant legislation to update and provide efficient health and medical services; and
(b) change certain aspects of Health and Medical Policies.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme targets will be undertaken by the Ministry:

(a) family planning and population control;
(b) manpower development health;
(c) primary health care;
(d) urban and rural health and medical services;
(e) dental services;
(f) national bulk purchasing and distribution of drugs;
(g) eradication and control of malaria
(h) carry out more research into tropical medicine;
(i) turn the Research Centre into part of the SICHE;
(j) convene a national health seminar;
(k) amend relevant health legislation;
(l) increase intakes for -

(i) nurse training
(ii) para-medical training
(iii) doctor's training
(iv) dentists training

(m) encourage more training in specialised fields;
(n) continue with the work on the Second Phase of the redevelopment of the Central Hospital;
(o) increase financial allocations of Health Grants to private hospitals and clinics;
(p) research into herbal medicines
(q) promote education awareness on environmental health and AIDS;
(r) upgrading of Kilu'ufi and Gizo Hospitals;
(s) continue the Health Education;
(t) encourage community participation in health and medical services; and
(u) undertake any other tasks as may be directed by the Minister and the Cabinet from time to time.

2.1.15: MINISTRY OF POLICE AND JUSTICE

1. BACKGROUND

(i) This is a newly created Ministry which is to highlight the three important areas viz:

1. Law and Order
2. Justice;
3. Legal Affairs.

(ii) The Ministry will ensure the Police Force and its support services are improved in order to efficiently and effectively maintain Law and Order. The overall training need of and housing for the Police Force & Prison Service will be addressed.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Law & Order
(b) Police Training
(c) Law enforcement
(d) Fire Service
(e) Vehicle Licensing and Registration
(f) Traffic
(g) Law Reform
(h) Public Solicitor
(i) Director of Public Prosecution
(j) Attorney General
(k) Prison Service

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) ensure law and order is maintained;
(b) carry out decisions of the Courts;
(c) support overseas training needs of the Police Force
(d) provide more housing for the police Force and Prison Service.
(e) ensure that justice and fairness is afforded to all citizens;
(f) co-ordinate legal matters and to ensure proper administration of Courts;
(g) review and collate all law books and court decisions;
(h) establish and ensure a proper framework for village courts and local courts.

4.DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
To pursue its objectives the Ministry will be guided by these strategies:

(a) actively involved in the Peace Process;
(b) strengthen the Police Force through recruitment;
(c) more training for Police & Prison Service Personnels;
(d) build and improve Police & Prison Service Housing
(e) introduce or amend certain legislation to provide for certain changes which would ensure effective operation of justice, law and the courts;
(f) put in place certain short-term policies in order to assist effective operation of justice, law and the courts.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme targets will be undertaken:

(a) restore law and order and ensure it is maintained by the Police Force;
(b) recruit more people into the Police Force;
(c) introduce legislation to provide for amnesty
(d) support training of lawyers and magistrates;
(e) introduction of Customary recognition Bill in Parliament;
(f) identify candidates to undergo legal training for lawyers and magistrates;
(g) introduction of Bill to make amendment to Ombudsman Act;
(h) implementation of village courts/local courts;
(i) support more specialised training in law for lawyers & magistrates;
(j) implementation of custom recognition Bill; and
(k) incorporate other work programmes that may be approved from time to time by the Hon Minister or Cabinet.

2.1.16: MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT, WORKS & COMMUNICATIONS

1. BACKGROUND

(i) Transport and Communications do play an important role in the overall development of the Solomon Islands economy. While reasonable development had been undertaken in terms of infrastructure facilities, the continuing development and improvement of transportation to and communication with isolated islands, communities and area with developmental potential will be given priority.
(ii) Real efforts will be taken to ensure that the transport and communications systems do function in a cost-effective, efficient and integrated manner within a framework of a thoroughly considered and determined programme.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:-

(a) Infrastructure Development - Roads, Bridges and Wharves.
(b) Shipping and Maritime
(c) Communications
(d) Postal Services Policies
(e) Spectrum
(f) Television
(g) Land Transport
(h) Water Resources and Sanitation

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for these Statutory Authorities:

(a) Solomon Islands Water Authority(SIWA)
(b) Postal Corporation

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES

(i) The overall objectives of the Ministry are to:-

(a) develop and provide an efficient and effective network of transport services to all parts of the country;
(b) coordinate development so as to ensure a coherent and integrated approach; and
(c) continue research and development of a more cost-effective means of transport.

(ii) The Ministry's specific objectives in the main modes of transportation are as follows:

3A. Land Transport
The objectives in this sub-sector are to:

(a) provide road access to isolated and rural areas for social and economic development;
(b) improve and upgrade the major roads and bridges and adequately maintain them;
(c) provide roads and bridges to support the diversification of production in primary industries; and
(d) bring about effective control and regulation of the public transport system and ensure regular services at minimum costs while at the same time safety and good quality of service.

3B. Marine Transport
The objectives in this sub-sector are to:

(a) rationalise inter-island shipping services and improve the quality of the sea-borne transportation system;
(b) develop and efficient and cost-effective inter-island shipping service;
(c) provide necessary marine transport facilities so as to provide logistical support for the primary production industries;
(d) rationalise the operation of the semi-government shipyard; and
(e) retain a small Marine Fleet to service remote outer islands.

3C. Water supply and Sewerage
The objective in this sub-sector are to:-

(a) continue the improvement of water supply and sewerage systems that are treated and the effluents discharged safely in both Honiara and the other urban centres throughout the country;
(b) provide adequate source treatment, storage and distribution system so for all the areas within Honiara as well as adequately within Honiara as well as adequately catering for other urban centres; and
(c) develop and provide adequate systems treatment facilities for all urban centres.

3D. Communications
The objectives in this sub-sector are to:-

(a) expand the postal services system as a network to contribute to overall national development;
(b) extend and coordinate the telecommunications network to improve its role in national development and unity;
(c) reduce the waiting list of and subscribers to telephone services;
(d) provide a greater penetration of services, especially in the rural areas and outer islands.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In carrying out its work programmes in these four sub-sectors, the Ministry will be guided by these strategies:

4A. Land Transport:

(a) the formulation of a strategic Land Transport Policy which should take into account the importance of a cost-effective transportation linkages system throughout the country;
(b) the designing and implementation of a progressive Land Transportation Plan for a ten-year period; and
(c) ensuring official emphasis on a professional technical and dedicated workforce in the Ministry while allowing for the participation of capable private-sector companies in carrying out approved programmes and projects.

4B. Marine Transport:

(a) the rationalisation of inter-islands shipping services and the improvement of the quality of the sea-borne transportation system;
(b) the development of an efficient and cost-effective inter-islands shipping service;
(c) the provision of necessary marine transport facilities so as to provide logistical support for the primary production industries;
(d) the rationalisation of the operation of the semi-government shipyard; and
(e) the retention of a small Malaita fleet to service remote outer islands.

4C. Water Supply and Sewerage

(a) ensuring the improvement of water supply and sewerage systems;
(b) paying more attention to the need for clean piped water and proper sanitation in the village communities; and
(c) embarking on a regular education programme on the proper use of water resources as well as covering the importance of proper sanitation.

4D. Communications:

(a) the progressive expansion of the postal services system as a network for overall national development;
(b) the extension and coordination of the telecommunications network to improve its role in national development and unity;
(c) the reduction of the waiting list of subscribers to telephone services;
(d) providing a greater penetration of services, especially in the rural areas and outer islands; and
(e) activating the improvement of services in all areas of communications.

5.PROGRAMME TARGETS
These proposed programme targets will be pursued:

5A. Land Transport -

(a) construct new rural roads and maintain existing ones;
(b) upgrade urban roads; and
(c) construct new bridges and upgrade existing ones in both rural areas and urban centres.

5B. Marine Transport

(a) establish an appropriate route licensing system to ensure that operators do provide adequate services to all parts of the country;
(b) review existing freight rates and subsidies to establish an appropriate tariff structure;
(c) establish an appropriate ship financing scheme to encourage private sector operators to replace obsolete vessels;
(d) upgrade the Government shipping yard; and
(e) maintain and improve rural maritime facilities.

5C. Water Supply and Sewerage

(a) continue working on provincial and urban water supplies;
(b) embark on a progressive program of village water supplies and suitable sanitation development;
(c) initiate and implement an education programme on the proper use of water resources and proper sanitation; and
(d) continue the improvement of the Honiara sewerage system.

5D. Communications -

(a) continue the expansion of the postal services system as a network for overall national development;
(b) continue the extension and coordination of the telecommunications network to improve its role in national development and unity;
(c) reduce the waiting list of subscribers to telephone services;
(d) provide a greater penetration of services, especially in the rural area and outer islands;
(e) increase the automatic exchange capacity and opening of new automatic exchanges in Honiara and the Provincial centres;
(f) further enhance the performance and output of the Philatelic Bureau;
(g) develop new services such as the courier and electronic mail services;
(h) establish a postal banking service;
(i) review the spectrum licensing with a view to granting permits to private FM radio stations;
(j) review the DOMSAT network with a view for expansion to embrace Government sub-centres; and
(k) review the existing joint-venture arrangements.

2.1.17: MINISTRY OF MINES AND ENERGY

1. BACKGROUND

(I) the two main subjects in this Ministry are Minerals and energy To date these two important resources remained relatively untapped. Once developed the Mining sector would not only broaden and strengthen the country's economic base but would also increase employment and diversify our exports. Harnessing of alternative energy would contribute towards import substitution in terms of fuel costs and cater for the country's increasing power supply need sin urban and rural areas.
(ii) most of the Mineral and potential energy resources are located on customary land. Hence, policies and legislation have to be in place to ensure the active participation of landowners so that they too benefit meaningfully from the development of these resources.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(I) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Mining
(b) Mineral Exploration
(c) Energy
(d) Water Resources
(e) Geology
(f) Licensing
(g) Hydrology

Statutory Authority

(a) Solomon Islands Electricity Authority
(b) Mines and Minerals Board

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES

(I) The objectives for the development of the Mining sector are as follows:

(a) develop a comprehensive mining industry for socio and economic development by providing employment and diversifying the country's export earnings;
(b) ensure that the exploitation of Mineral resources are done in such a way that the interest of landowners are fully catered for;
(c) open another Gold Mine in addition to Gold Ridge Mining Project.

(ii) the objectives for the development of the energy sector are as follows

(a) develop potential energy sources to meet the increasing industrial needs of the country; and
(b) ensure that the country's people have access to an integrated cost-effective and affordable power supply.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The Ministry will be guided by these strategies in pursuit of its objectives:

(a) identifying of potential mine sites;
(b) negotiations with landowners for agreements which would pave the way for the establishment of mines;
(c) continuing to re-assess current licences on mineral prospecting that is attractive to potential mining companies;
(d) introduction of legislation which will pave the way for issuing licenses to interested companies to carry out hydro-carbon prospecting in the country;
(e) identifying potential sources to be developed to meet the increasing energy needs of the country's industries;
(f) strengthening of the Energy Division to identify potential sources to be developed for alternative energy in rural areas;
(g) reassessing and finding out potential funding for the development of alternative energy; and
(h) establishing water systems and other infrastructures in identified areas for integrated projects;

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme targets will be pursued:

(a) issue prospecting licences to companies interested in mining minerals and oil in the country;
(b) maintain support for the Gold Ridge Mining Project;
(c) open another Gold Mine;
(d) find potential funding for the Lungga Hydro Scheme;
(e) embark on a programme of surveying and evaluating mini hydro projects in certain suitable locations throughout the country, especially Government sub-stations and rural areas;
(f) open a number of mini-hydro projects in rural areas; and
(g) review the programme of Action and incorporate any projects that may be made by the Minister and Cabinet;
(h) pursue more aggressively the Mine potentials for Bugotu Nickel;

2.1.18: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

1. BACKGROUND
This Ministry is concerned with Education as a right and as much as possible all children should be allowed to go to school. The human Resources Development function of the Ministry has been transferred to the Ministry of National Planning, leaving the Ministry to focus on Education policy and institutional infrastructure development as well as inspection of schools.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY
The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Education
(b) Pre-Service
(c) Scholarships
(d) Curriculum
(e) Teaching Service
(f) Library service
(g) Research Control
(h) Schools & Educational Institutions
(i) Selection & Guidance

(ii) The Ministry is responsible and answerable for this Statutory Authority Solomon Islands College of Higher Education/University of Solomon Islands.

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry are to:

(a) ensure that Education is a right to be enjoyed by all, however, in practice it becomes a privilege as only a selected few can progress;
(b) emphasis the shift from the philosophy of "education for what" to the philosophy of "education for who";
(c) give equal opportunity to both males and females in schools and institutions of learning;
(d) increase the percentage of secondary schools intake;
(e) establish more vocation/rural training centres;
(f) put in place more literacy and community education opportunities;
(g) increased environmental awareness in schools;
(h) convert SICHE into a University; and
(i) encourage certain organisations to establish their own Primary & secondary schools

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
The strategies adopted for the Ministry to pursue its objectives are:

(a) amendment of relevant sections of the Education Act 1978 to cater for changes which could assist in achieving the educational objectives stipulated in 3, above; and
(b) place emphasis on a more coordinated effort in promoting environmental education programmes.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
These programme targets will be pursued as follows:

(a) continue establishing community high schools;
(b) continue the allocation of grants to secondary schools;
(c) introduce Forms 4 and 5 in some of the community high schools;
(d) increase teacher training opportunities for both primary and secondary schools;
(e) renovate and expand the national library
(f) consider establishing some senior secondary schools only ie forms 5-6;
(g) consider establishing separate classes/schools for boys and girls;
(h) introduce the amendment of the Education Act 1978 in Parliament;
(i) institute flag raising in schools;
(j) divert World Bank assistance to the strengthening and improvement of community high schools and
(k) SICHE becomes University of Solomon Islands; and
(l) certain changes to the present Education system introduced;
(m) establish the National Education Commission
(n) place more local input and flavour into the Curriculum contents
(o) recommence broadcasts;
(p) continue establishing community high schools;
(q) encourage individuals or groups of interested persons to establish institutes or opportunities for higher learning; and
(r) review the programme and incorporate any changes made from time to time by the Minister and Cabinet

2.1.19: MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORTS AND WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT

1. BACKGROUND

(a) Youth and women play very important roles in the overall development of the country. In recognition of the importance of these roles a new Ministry is being established to coordinate policy and priorities in relation to their participation.
(b) The Women's Division is renamed Women in Development to reflect a departure from past conceptions which pigeon-holed issues affecting women under the term "Women's Interests". The new emphasis is for Women to participate in the political, socio-economic and cultural development of the country.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(a) Youth Development
(b) Sports Development
(c) Women in Development
(d) Parks

Statutory Authority

(a) National Council of Women
(b) National Youth Congress
(c) National Sports Council

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES

(a) ensure that Youth and Women receive appropriate training and to acquire skills that enable them to play their role in the development of the country;
(b) engage Youth in Cultural, education voluntary programmes in both urban and rural areas so that they become law abiding citizens of the country;
(c) continue to encourage and involve women as equal partners in the political, economic and social development of the country;
(d) equal participation in sports for all citizens;
(e) develop Solomon Islands into a sporting nation by way of improving and building new sporting facilities.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

(a) create opportunities for school drop outs to engage in productive development and community work;
(b) establish Youth Voluntary Scheme;
(c) set up a National Sports Institute;
(d) develop and improve sporting facilities starting in the capital;
(e) send sports men, women and administrators overseas attachments and training;
(f) strengthen and coordinate women's activities in the overall nation-building; and
(g) review the Youth Congress, National Sports Council and National Council of Women.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS

(a) continue with Youth and Women training Programmes;
(b) strengthen the National Council of Women;
(c) strengthen the National Youth Council and Youth Training Centre;
(d) establishment of Provincial Women Councils;
(e) National Sports Stadium
(f) National Sporting Institute;
(g) strengthen Sports Administration;
(h) introduce legislation for Parks and Youth Voluntary Schemes;
(i) establish both National and Provincial recreational parks;
(j) establish a Credit Facility for women;
(k) to review this Programme and incorporate any amendments or projects that may be made from time to time by the Minister and Cabinet.

2.1.20: MINISTRY OF FISHERIES & MARINE RESOURCES

1. BACKGROUND

1. FISHERIES AND MARINE RESOURCES

(i) Fisheries activity forms an important part of the Solomon Islands economy. Fish forms a major protein element in the diet of the people, a form of cash for many rural people in the country and a major source of export earning and employment;
(ii) Emphasis will be placed on the development of deep sea fishing and the further development of the outer limits to the 200 mile EEZ.

2. FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRY

(i) The Portfolio subjects formally assigned to the Ministry are:

(a) Fisheries and Marine Resources
(b) Aquaculture
(c) Research
(d) Extension Services

3. POLICY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources are to:

(a) coordinate all fisheries activities operating within the 200 miles economic zone of Solomon Islands to achieve better and maximum benefit for the people of Solomon Islands;
(b) improve current fishing facilities to encourage local fishermen to effectively preserve and market their fish and other perishable marine products; and
(c) ensure that the harvesting practices of all marine resources are properly coordinated and monitored to ensure that certain resources are not depleted unnecessarily.

4. DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
In Fisheries and Marine Resources, the Ministry will follow these Strategies

(a) priority would be placed on encouraging fisheries enterprises (full time fishing on a commercial basis)focussing particularly on deep sea and reef fishing;
(b) improve and upgrade storage facilities and ice making machines in Honiara and various rural fisheries centres;
(c) interested entrepreneur to be identified and encouraged to develop more efficient aquaculture projects;
(d) encourage the existing prawn farm to expand to other provinces;
(e) priority will be placed on encouraging seaweed farming, giant clams and pearl farming;
(f) encourage large fishing companies such as NFD and other Joint-Venture fishing companies to process raw tuna for the export market; and
(g) improve transportation of fish to urban markets.

5. PROGRAMME TARGETS
The Ministry will pursue these Programme targets:

(a) establish giant clam shells, black lips and beche-de-mer farms in the provinces and embark on the giant claim shell mariculture pilot project;
(b) establish new prawn farms;
(c) privatise all rural fisheries centres and identify individuals or groups to takeover their management;
(d) encourage new large joint-venture fishing companies in processing of raw tuna for export;
(e) identify and encourage fish farming;
(f) provide training for the local fishermen;
(g) provide financial assistance to local fishing groups to acquire fishing gears and facilities;
(h) commence pearl shell spat collection;
(j) increase the supply of fish for the domestic and overseas markets;
(k) increase the output from mariculture and aquaculture;
(l) increase the processing of raw tuna for the export market;
(m) encourage the establishment of base facilities for other fisheries companies; and
(n) include other programmes agreed by the Minister and Cabinet.

2.2 THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT BACKBENCHERS

In line with the policy of involving Government Backbenchers in the administration and management of governmental interests and responsibilities and outside of Ministries, Government Backbenchers will be appointed to serve on the Committees and Boards as outlined below:

2.2.1 Parliamentary Select Committee

(i) There are two types of Parliamentary select committees as specified in the standing orders of Parliament, specifically standing orders 08 to 71B . The Select Committees are:

(a) standing select committees; and
(b) special select committees

(ii) Special select committees may be appointed from time to time to do special assignment which may be ordered by Parliament or by the Minister responsible for the subject of the special assignment. These special select committees may be terminated at the conclusion of their assignment in line with their Term of Reference.
(iii) Standing select committees are constituted to serve throughout the four-year life of Parliament. Presently there are these standing select committees;

(a) Public Accounts Committee
(b) House Committee
(c) Bills and Legislations Committee
(d) Constitution Review Committee
(e) Foreign Relations Committee

2.2.2 The Boards of the Statutory Authorities on which Government Backbenchers would serve are as follows:

(a) SIBC Board
(b) DBSI Board
(c) SINPF Board
(d) ICSI Board
(e) HFC Board
(f) SIVB Board
(g) SIWA Board
(h) PC Board
(i) NSLC Board
(j) SIEA Board
(k) MM Board
(l) SICHE Council
(m) GL Board
(n) Censorship Board
(o) CEMA Board
(p) SIPA Board
(q) FI Board
(r) LDA Board
(s) Hospital Board
(t) Medical Board
(u) PP Board
(v) Nursing Council
(w) Solomon Airlines Board

2.2.3 Special Assignments

(i) Supporters of the party may also be appointed to the various Boards of the Statutory authorities, other Government Boards and Special select committees of Parliament
(ii) From time to time it may be necessary for the Government to pursue special matters of national interest both here at home or overseas. At such times the government would appoint a Backbencher or a supporter to undertake such tasks as may be mandated.

SOLOMON ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

CONTENTS

PLAN STATEMENT(back to top)

2.1.1 OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

2.1.2 MINISTRY OF NATIONAL UNITY, RECONCILIATION AND PEACE

2.1.3: MINISTRY OF HOME AND ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS

2.1.4: MINISTRY OF FINANCE

2.1.5: MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY

2.1.6: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

2.1.7 MINISTRY OF FORESTRY, ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

2.1.8: MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, EMPLOYMENT AND TRADE

2.1.9: MINISTRY OF LANDS AND HOUSING

2.1.10: MINISTRY OF NATIONAL PLANNING AND HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

2.1.11: MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

2.1.12: MINISTRY OF CULTURE, TOURISM AND AVIATION

2.1.13: MINISTRY OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

2.1.14: MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES

2.1.15: MINISTRY OF POLICE AND JUSTICE

2.1.16: MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT, WORKS & COMMUNICATIONS

2.1.17: MINISTRY OF MINES AND ENERGY

2.1.18: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

2.1.19: MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORTS AND WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT

2.1.20: MINISTRY OF FISHERIES & MARINE RESOURCES

2.2 THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT BACKBENCHERS

PLAN STATEMENT (back to top)