THE Government appears to have shelved plans to build the national laboratory project, either because it has no money or because senior officials have other interests.
The entire project could cost up to $10 million, sources familiar with the project told Solomon Star over the weekend.
It is believed the initial framework was completed and handed to the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet last November – almost six months after Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced the project in his Sine Die motion on 24 June 2024.
The Solomon Star over the weekend requested a response from deputy press secretary Allan Tavuhana, suggesting the project may have been abandoned.
There was no response.
In his Motion of Sine Die on 24 June last year, Prime Minister Manele emphasized the importance of the project, telling Parliament, “Both the 100 days program and the Policy Document contain clear and actionable provisions for the establishment of a National Laboratory Framework with a particular focus on meeting the health and trade laboratory needs of our country.
“This is crucial for several reasons and has far-reaching implications for both our public health system and prosperity, particularly in terms of export and import activities.
“Modern and well-equipped laboratories are essential for accurate and timely testing, which is the backbone of effective disease surveillance and control.
“This capacity is crucial not only for protecting the health of our citizens but also for ensuring that our health system can efficiently manage outbreaks and prevent them from escalating into crises
“On the trade front, the development of a robust laboratory framework is equally critical. In today’s globalized economy, the quality and safety of goods are of utmost importance.
“For our exports to meet international standards and be competitive in global markets, they must undergo rigorous testing and certification,” Prime Minister Manele told Parliament.
He said the rigorous testing and certification applies to a wide range of products, from agricultural goods and food items to pharmaceutical and manufactured goods.
“Reliable laboratory services ensure that our exports are safe, of high quality, and compliant with international regulations, thereby enhancing our reputations and marketability abroad.
“The establishment of National Laboratory Framework supports trade facilitation by streamlining the processes involved in testing and certification.
“This reduces delays and costs associated with exporting and importing goods, making our trade processes more efficient and competitive. It also helps in preventing trade disputes related to product quality and safety, fostering smoother and more reliable international trade relationships,” the Prime Minister said.
A number of meetings requested to discuss the initial framework in terms of costs has fallen on deaf ears.
There has been no response at all from either the Special Secretary to Prime Minister (SSPM) or the Secretary to the Prime Minister (SPM) to this day, according to those familiar with the initial proposal.
“The initial framework is said to be around SBD600, 000. There has been no input from either the SSPM or the SPM,” according to those familiar with the proposal.
This leaves everyone wondering whether the government has abandoned the entire project, which is expected to cost up to $10 million.
By Alfred Sasako
