A NEW Zealand-based non-government organisation, OceansWatch, is leaving Temotu Province because of Customs and Immigration issues.
The NGO, whose workers normally travelled directly to Temotu on yacht, said they’ve always experienced immigration and customs clearance delays at Lata.
This is due to the absence of immigration and customs officers in the province.
OceansWatchhad been working in Temotu for the past five years mainly on community conservation and livelihood activities.
But their local spokesman Lawrence Nodua said during those years, they’ve always experienced difficulties and delays when it comes to immigration and customs clearance.
“Last year customs had one of its officers there at Latawhile immigration does not have one,” Mr Nodua said.
“A check with immigration said they are ready to deploy an officer soon depending on the province’s support to improve housing condition for the officer,” added.
Mr Nodua said he understands the province is not doing their part to speed up the process.