Equipment Handover Celebrates Solomon Islands-Australia Parliamentary Partnership
In line with its longstanding partnership with the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, Australia recently handed over a range of equipment to support the parliamentary business of Solomon Islands.
The equipment, including audio headsets, wax sticks and heavy-duty embossing materials, will strengthen the capacity of staff from the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and procedures departments to carry out their work.
Australian High Commission Political Counsellor Kevin Playford handing over the equipment to Deputy Speaker of Parliament Hon Commins Mewa
These teams play a vital role in keeping Parliament running, including producing official records and formally sealing new pieces of legislation.
The previous cast iron embosser had been in use by the National Parliament since the 1980s and was well and truly ready to be retired!
Requested by the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, the equipment was facilitated through the Pacific Parliamentary Partnerships Fund, with the support of Australia’s NSW Parliament.
The National Parliament of Solomon Islands and NSW Parliament share a 14-year twinning relationship. Through this program, both parliaments engage in two-way exchanges, training opportunities and workshops, and share lessons learned.
From left to right: Second Secretary Laura Wilson, Political Counsellor Kevin Playford, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Honourable Commins Mewa, Clerk of Parliament, David Kusilifu, Director of Parliamentary Information Services Boniface Supa and Chief Procedures Officer Jean Tema
This partnership reflects Australia’s and Solomon Islands’ shared commitment to good parliamentary governance. A strong and well-resourced parliament is the bedrock of a healthy and thriving democracy.
In a small handover ceremony, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon Commins Mewa, thanked Australia for its continuous support to the National Parliament:
“This is not the first time we have received support from the Australian Government. Thank you so much Australia,” Mr Mewa said.
He urged parliamentary staff to take care of the equipment as they carried out their work.
In handing over the equipment, the Australian High Commission’s Political Counsellor, Kevin Playford, expressed Australia’s delight at delivering the equipment.
“Australia will continue to support Solomon Islands as a true friend and neighbour,” the Deputy Speaker added.
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Media Release from the Australian High Commission in Honiara