Integrity Agencies’ MoU Consolidates Pacific Partnership

CANBERRA, Aug. 6, 2012 /Medianet International-AsiaNet/ –

A new memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the offices of the
Commonwealth Ombudsman and the Ombudsman of Solomon Islands (OOSI) consolidates
an already strong relationship and provides an opportunity to build on, and
implement, a comprehensive program of capacity-building activities.

Signed in Brisbane last week by acting Commonwealth Ombudsman Alison
Larkins and Solomon Islands Ombudsman Joe Poraiwai, the MoU formally commits
the offices to work in partnership to strengthen the OOSI’s capacity to perform
its mandated functions.

‘My office is looking forward to working with our Australian colleagues to
enhance our skills and abilities in a range of areas, including corporate
governance, information systems and staff management,’ Mr Poraiwai said.

‘In fact, this work has already begun with the development of a proposal to
connect my office to the central Solomon Islands Government IT system and
training sessions in using Excel to manage complaints, assets and finances.’

Ms Larkins said the two offices had worked well together for several years as
members of the Pacific Ombudsman Alliance.

‘Our relationship is underpinned by values such as respect, open
communication, cooperation and friendship,’ she said.

‘The MoU means that we will continue to work together long-term. In fact,
we may even expand the partnership to include other Australian state and
territory ombudsmen who receive complaints on issues similar to those received
by the OOSI.’

The ombudsmen are planning activities that will assist the OOSI to:

* improve its technical capacity through effective case management systems
and processes, and strengthened ICT systems and processes

* strengthen its workforce capacity through technical, ICT, and financial
and senior staff management capabilities

* improve financial management through strengthened financial management
processes.

‘We have put together an ambitious but achievable program,’ Mr Poraiwai
said. ‘And I am confident that the productive relationship our two offices
enjoy will continue to flourish.’

Media contact:
Fiona Skivington
0423 845 160

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SOURCE: Commonwealth Ombudsman