The Chairman of the House Health Committee Rep Vesi Fautanu Jr continued his push for a medical charter when lawmakers convened this morning after a two week break.
He informed the Speaker and colleagues that the Committee’s request for a flight to bring home stranded residents and take patients needing treatment off island, has been denied by the Coronavirus Task Force.
He said the Health Committee will not rest because of the cries from our people who want to come home and also those needing to go off island for medical treatment.
The Manu’a faipule said it’s his understanding there are 100 people in the latter category.
He asked that the Coronavirus Task Force be brought in to be questioned about their decision and to explain their plans.
Rep Vesi also pointed out that the 7th Emergency Declaration for COVID-19 continues the restriction on hours of operation for businesses, which is negatively affecting the private sector. This is another issue that he wants the Task Force to address.
He also expressed concern about the ban on bingo games when other gatherings with thousands of people, with no social distancing are being allowed.
He said that it’s not children that police are dealing with for bingo games…its elderly fathers and mothers.
And police should be taught the proper cultural protocols and how to address the elderly.
Rep Faimealelei Anthony Allen, suggested that before the hearing with the task force, the House should seek verification of the 100 patients needing treatment off island. He said he’s a member of the LBJ Hospital Board and he’s not aware of this.
Vice Speaker Fetu Fetui recommended that they discuss the issue with the governor and come to an amicable solution. He said he understands the need to prevent the territory from the pandemic but they must also heed the appeal of those wanting to come home to their families.
He was also unhappy about the way police dealt with senior citizens at bingo games over the weekend.
Fetu reminded that the conduct of police officers in dealing with members of the public particularly the elderly has been raised several times with the Commissioner of Public Safety.
He also questioned why bingos are banned yet campaign kickoffs are allowed. He said the rules should be applied equally and not for some and not others. He said there should be no exceptions and no one is above the law.
Rep Vaetasi Tuumolimoli Moliga advised caution when making statements in the media or on social media platforms because it affects the House’s reputation. He did not give any specifics.
He said what is paramount is to protect the lives of our people and the Fono should carefully weight this against the wishes of only a few people.
For his part, House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale stated that its been 6-7 months since the government has been occupied with preparations to protect the territory from coronavirus and he felt this was ample time to put plans in place. He supported having the Coronavirus Task Force appear before the House to answer members’ questions..
A hearing with the Coronavirus Task Force is set for 8:30 am on Wednesday.
