FROM CONCERN TO ACTIONS . The Second Forum held at USP Cook Islands

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This Forum focussed on climate-related concerns and actions for the Pa Enua of the Southern Group.
The programme is below.

The keynote speaker was Steve Barrett.
He has lived and worked in the Pa Enua, including as Island Secretary in Mauke.
Steve now works at the New Zealand High Commission in Rarotonga.

There were five other speakers. Their presentations were followed by a lively discussion.

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Taoi Noora spoke on the actions to address climate change that have been undertaken by the Aronga Mana (traditional leaders) of Mangaia

Shelley Tavai described the climate change related concerns and actions by the people of Aitutaki.

Tepuaroa (Pua) Tetava talked about the climate change related concerns in Mitiaro.

Kelvin Passfield of the Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) shared the findings of a recent study that contributed to understanding of the impact of introduced pine trees in Mangaia, and how the manage the consequences for water availability on the island.

Paul Moate of Infrastructure Cook Islands (ICI) spoke about climate change and Pa Enua infrastructure, with a focus on the Southern Group.

The subsequent lively discussion included comments by Nooroa Baker. He discussed options for harvesting the pine trees on a sustainable and economically viable basis.

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