Government is aware of food shortages in Provinces, and it is in the position to organize airlifting of cargoes to affected Provinces.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said on his instruction to the Oversight Committee has been discussion with partners- Solomon Airlines and Heli Support Services- on the option of airlifting cargoes while government is sorting out COVID- 19 related issues with cargo vessels.
PM Sogavare acknowledged the government of Australia for agreeing to initial funding for Solomon Airlines and Heli Support Services to start the airlifting of cargoes as soon as possible.
He also acknowledged that Australia is considering an appropriate fixed wing aircraft to provide support in the airlifting of the cargoes and Australia is also considering a ship to play support and the same ship will act as a temporary replacement while one of our patrol boats is going for maintenance.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare announced that the Oversight Committee is now working through Provincial Disaster Operation Committees (PDOCs) to prioritize cargo deliveries to Provinces starting tomorrow 7th February.
PM Sogavare also revealed that designated vessels to take cargoes to Provinces were halted due to some crew members were tested positive for COVID- 19.
-GCU Press