PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): May 23, 1997 –
A resolution to express the gratitude of the Tenth Congress of the
FSM to the Honorable Bailey Olter, former President of the FSM, for
his distinguished service to his country and to the people of the FSM
was deferred during the 9th Day, May 19, of the 1st Regular Session
of the 10th Congress awaiting action on a companion bill that “will
mean more to the former President than the resolution alone”
according to a May 20, 1997 release from the Congress.
Six Presidential Communications to Congress for its considerations
included the proposal of relocation of the Division of Labor from the
FSM Department of Resources and Development to the Office of the
Attorney General; a nomination of Mr. Fred Sigrah to the Social
Security Board; a proposed legislation pertaining to the Immigration
Act, and a proposed legislation for the establishment of a Joint
Committee on Compact Economic Negotiation (JCN).
The President informed the Congress that he has permitted a
Congressional Act that designate additional ports of entries in the
FSM to become law without his signature. Nena submitted to Congress
the semi-annual fund status report for the FSM National Government.
Congressional Bill No. 10-10 passed on First Reading would
reallocate and modify the use of certain funds appropriated for
public projects and programs in the State of Chuuk.
In other related activities, the Health Education and Social
Affairs (HESA) Committee conducted a public hearing on the Department
of Health Services proposed FY’98 budget. testifying for the
Department were Secretary Eliuel Pretrick and other key staff.
Committee members questioned budgeted positions that have been vacant
for over a years and expressed disappointment over inadequate FSM
food inspection resulting in the ongoing sale of expired food items
by some business establishments.
Floor Leader Urusemal pointed out that since the enactment of the
National Food Safety Act (NFSA), in frustration, he introduced a bill
to repeal the whole NFSA. However, Floor Leader urged appropriate
staff of the Department of Health Services to work with the States to
bring about the intent of the NFSA.
Ten members were present during the May 20th, session while
Senators Yosiwo P. George, Redley Killion and Senator Roosevelt
Kansou were excused.
