The Government has set the records straight and provide clarification on the issues raised in the Opposition Leader Hon. Mathew Wale’s melodramatic article regarding the government delegation trip to Australia led by the Deputy Prime Minister.
While it is accurate that Cabinet did not formally sanction the trip, it is essential to note that the Acting Prime Minister, Hon Bradley Tovosia, granted permission for the travel. This decision was made in light of ongoing engagements directly related to important national issue regarding land on Guadalcanal, but more importantly, peace and security of our country.
For example, Cabinet has already approved the sum of $140 m to settle the issue. Such significant transactions necessitate thorough due diligence and consideration, which aligns with the purpose of this trip. Additionally, the review paper on the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program, currently before Cabinet, was deferred pending further information; therefore, this trip is also for MPs to discuss issues surrounding PALM as well.





