RAMSI respects Solomon Islands law

OFFICE OF THE SPECIAL COORDINATOR

REGIONAL ASSISTANCE MISSION TO SOLOMON ISLANDS

MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday 14th November 2006

RAMSI respects Solomon Islands law

The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) respects and upholds the laws and customs of Solomon Islands because the mission respects the people it came here to help.

RAMSI Special Coordinator Tim George today said there was no foundation to allegations that prostitution is occurring at RAMSI’s base, GBR.

“I can see no evidence to back up these allegations,” Mr George said.

“Let me reassure Solomon Islanders that RAMSI takes misconduct very seriously. We do not tolerate it amongst our personnel.”

“RAMSI personnel are expected to obey the law while serving in Solomon Islands and to maintain the highest standards of personal and professional behaviour.”

The Commander of the Participating Police Force (PPF) Will Jamieson said there was no evidence of prostitution at the base.

“I am surprised that anyone would make such serious accusations without putting forward any evidence whatsoever,” Commander Jamieson said.

“If there is any information to suggest that members of the PPF, the RAMSI military or other people at GBR are involved in any criminal activity, this should be reported to the Solomon Islands Police Force.”

Commander of the Combined Taskforce (RAMSI Military) Lieutenant Colonel Jeff Quirk said he expected every military member to maintain the highest standards of behaviour during their time in the Solomon Islands.

“Any breach will be dealt with swiftly,” Lieutenant Colonel Quirk said.

The Special Coordinator noted that all RAMSI personnel were expected to behave in accordance with the relevant laws of Solomon Islands and were also subject to the laws of their home country jurisdictions. Any proven misbehavior by any member of RAMSI would result in that person being sent home.

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