Andrew Solomon Napuat

In his final press conference for this year held yesterday (Friday), the Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat, has reflected on some of the most important accomplishments of his ministry.

Beginning with the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF), Minister Napuat said the ongoing recruitment of police officers and 100 direct VMF recruitment is a major achievement for the security sector.

“The launching of Vanuatu’s Security Strategy and passage of the National Security Act are also historic achievements after independence.

“Now with the expanded definition of security, Vanuatu as one of the most vulnerable nation has prescribed its actions in the National Security Strategy to ensure it can combat the threats of climate change and other security issues in its borders.

“Also this year, our National Intelligence Unit has intercepted the biggest human trafficking operation in the southern hemisphere.

“It was a good experience for the investigation team; collaborating with the partners such as IOM in the operation. It also brings home the importance of integrated border management system, where Vanuatu needs to step up into.

“The case is now before the courts and a decision will be made soon.”

Minister Napuat said Vanuatu will have its first Border Management Strategy soon and the MoIA is discussing the development of its Human Resource Development Plan.

The government’s flagship programme of bringing the government closer to the people, under the Department of Local Authorities (DLA) is reaping its results with many citizens seeing services after a long time, he said.

“The lowest level of governance visibility is now raised after 39 years of maturity. The government will continue to invest in this programme to ensure citizens enjoy services at their door steps.

“A major development of the Department of Labor and Employment Services is its new structure, new legislative amendments to Work Permit Act, various consultation of the Employment Act and Seasonal Employment Act.

“The labour mobility space is now upgraded to an additional programme by the government of Australia, allowing a 3-year visa for seasonal employment under the Pacific Labour Scheme.”

Minister Napuat also talked about the visibility of border security services through the Vanuatu Immigration Services; the standardization of its vehicles, new logo, new uniforms including the launch of the site for the new Immigration Detention Centre .

He then commended the officers of the Electoral Office and Civil Registry and Statistics Department for ensuring all of Vanuatu is registered before the general election in 2020.

Minister Napuat made a call onto the Public Land Transport Authority, one of the important offices under his responsibility and stakeholders to ensure there is no fighting and competing for clients at the cruise ship wharf in 2020.

“Majority of locals are engaged in the transport business. In the new year, systems will be modernized and the new data base will assist the board to make relevant decisions in regards to conduct of drivers, dress code and general ethical values that public land transport drivers need to follow.

“I have signed several orders this year, and if only our very own local drivers are passionate about what they do and comply with my orders, Vanuatu will be truly a peaceful and caring nation.”

source:Vanuatu daily post