The National Environment Service recently conducted an induction training session for the Mitiaro Island Environment Authority aimed at familiarizing its members with essentialcomponents of their roles and responsibilities. The session delved into various aspects,including the National Environment Service (NES), its core functions, departments, as well as the pivotal roles of the Authority and Environment Officers.
The Mitiaro Environment Authority board members include Excellencies, Travel Tou (To’u Ariki), Teata Tetava (Kauono Tetava Tiatava Ariki), Nooroa Pouao (Kauono Tema’eu-Te-Ika-Mata Ariki), His Worship Makara Murare (Mayor), Honourable Tuakeu Tangatapoto (Member of Parliament) and Brandon Kaukura (Public Health Officer). This induction training has been conducted in Aitutaki, Mangaia and Mauke to help equip board members with methods for sound decision making.
During the training, emphasis was placed on the roles of the Authority itself, stressing its significance in guiding and implementing environmental policies and initiatives on the island. Additionally, the pivotal role of Environment Officers in executing and monitoring environmental programs.
In a broader discussion, authority members raised concerns regarding unresolved environmental issues on Mitiaro. Furthermore, there was a call to review existing regulations or by-laws to ensure their effectiveness in addressing contemporary environmental challenges faced by the island.
The induction-training program was led by Rarotonga based NES Staff, Tekura Moeka’a and Vavia Tangatataia. and supported by the Mitiaro Environment Officer, Gretta Murare.
