By Talaia Mika
APIA, SAMOA – 20 OCTOBER 2021: The newly appointed Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Leatisā Uitimē Tala and the Minister for Natural Resources and Environment and Tourism, Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster took their oath of office in front of the Head of State this morning.
Held at the Head of State’s residence at Vailele, the morning ceremony was led by the Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, Member of the Council of Deputies Le Mamea Tuiletufuga Mualia Ropati, the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa, the Speaker of Parliament, Papalii Lio Masepau and Cabinet Ministers.
Fifty-year-old Leatisā was announced by the Speaker, Papali’i Lio Ta’eu Masepa’u has having the experience, qualifications and confidence in the role having worked at the Legislative Assembly for over 20 years.
Leatisā was the Acting Clerk following the suspension then termination of the former Clerk, Tiatia Graeme Tualaulelei who is facing contempt of court charges for his role in disobeying the court order relating to the swearing in of MPs in May this year.
The Minister for Natural Resources & Environment and Tourism, Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster regained his portfolio after resigning in June when he was charged and arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
The Court discharged him without conviction and fined $2,000 tala.
Toeolesulusulu served one term in parliament as an opposition MP and comes as no stranger to the environment portfolio having previously worked for the World Wide Fund for Nature, the Samoan government’s Division of Environment and Conservation, Seacology, as well as an environmental consultant.
Referring to the cabinet minister’s portfolio, Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa said the negative impact of climate change is a serious issue for small island states like Samoa.
“The objective is for all of us as leaders, public servants and citizens to protect our legacy in the environment through sustainable development for our future generations,” said the Prime Minister.
“Likewise, we need to ensure a green environment that goes hand in hand with sustainable tourism development.”