Guadalcanal Province took delivery of its second passenger and cargo boat, the MV SOLOMONE 2 from the national government.
Speaking at the official hand-over, Minister for provincial government, David Day Pacha, said the occasion is a hall mark of CNURA government's support to the rural and remote people of Solomon Islands.Mr. Pacha said whilst the government addresses road services to remote parts of Guadalcanal, shipping services must continue.
He said the national government responded positively to a call for assistance by the Guadalcanal provincial government because of the genuine need for sister ship to MV Solomone 1.
Mr. Pacha however cautioned the Guadalcanal provincial executive to appoint an independent body to run a shipping service, free from political interference.
Guadalcanal Premier, Stephen Panga, said his government and people are honoured and thankful to the National Government.
He said the MV Solomone 2 is an achievement which would allow the people of Guadalcanal to enjoy a more reliable and efficient shipping service.
Government had spent about 400-thousand dollars in maintenance and related cost on the MV Kangava before handing it over to Guadalcanal province.
The hand over ceremony took place at Tulagi yesterday afternoon.
Source: SIBC News