24 December 2016

Government considers 2016 National Survey of Timor-Leste Public Opinion

Government considers 2016 National Survey of Timor-Leste Public Opinion

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, December 23rd, 2016

Government considers 2016 National Survey of Timor-Leste Public Opinion

The Government has analyzed the results of nationwide a poll conducted in November by the International Republican Institute’s Centre for Insights in Survey Research. The National Survey of Timor-Leste Public Opinion, released this week, indicates that survey respondents are optimistic, committed to the democratic process and have a generally positive view about the Government.

According to the IRI the poll reflected a “general attitude of goodwill” towards the Government with a combined 74% of respondents saying that thought that the Government was doing a ‘very good’ [29%] or ‘good’ [45%] job. A high proportion recognized improvements in healthcare [79%], education  [78%] and Electricity [71%] over the last year and 31% felt that their family’s financial situation had improved over the same time frame with 56% saying it had stayed the same.

Responding to the question “Based on your prior knowledge, do you approve of how the government is spending the petroleum fund money?” 52% responded that they strongly approved, 16% that they somewhat approved, 17% that they somewhat disapprove and 8% that they strongly disapprove. The support amongst the sample group for the ZEESM Project in Oe-Cusse Ambeno was 91% and for the south coast Tasi Mane project 89%.

It was encouraging for the Government to note that 98% of the sample group said that it is very likely that they will vote in the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections, indicating a strong commitment to participate in the democratic process.

Properly conducted opinion surveys can be a helpful tool providing insights into the perceptions of our citizens. This is the third IRI survey conducted in Timor-Leste and used a sample of 1,200 respondents aged 17 and older, representative of voting age adults nationally. Data was collected using in-person, in-home interviews in all of Timor-Leste’s 12 municipalities and the Special Zone of Oé-Cusse Ambeno.

Government Spokesperson, Minister of State Agio Pereira thanked the International Republican Institute for again conducting their independent survey in Timor-Leste and noted “the commitment to democracy and positive outlook reflected in this poll is encouraging as we work to address challenges and together build our nation.”ENDS

etljb

19 December 2016

Extraordinary meeting of the East Timor Council of Ministers of December 16th, 2016

Extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers of December 16th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, December 16th, 2016

Press Release

Extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers of December 16th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met on Friday and approved the General Forestry Regime, presented by the Minister of State, Coordinator of Economic Affairs and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. Although between 2003 and 2010 Timor-Leste lost 17.5% of its forest area, in particular primary forest, 58% of the country is still covered by forest. Timor-Leste is located in a biodiversity area globally significant – known as Wallacea – and, to maintain it, a sustainable management of forests is particularly necessary. Despite Timor-Leste having a globally significant biodiversity, the National Plan to Fight Land Degradation identified deforestation as one of the causes of erosion and degradation of river basins.

Still in this same area, the Council of Ministers approved the draft resolution on the Agreement for the Establishment of AFOCO – Asian Forest Cooperation Organization. The aim is to strengthen regional cooperation in the forestry sector in order to cope with the impact of climate change. This agreement comes in the wake of the dialog on Forestry Cooperation between the ASEAN Member States’ Governments and the Republic of Korea, and the decision to invite Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Timor-Leste to participate in the dialog on the creation of the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization.

Following the approval at the meeting of the Council of Ministers on March 9th, 2016, the Regime for the Transition of the Staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MNEC) to the Diplomatic Career was presented, as is provided for in the Statute of the Diplomatic Career. This is a special regime, within the Public Administration, and includes a series of public officials from MNEC, designated as diplomatic staff. The diploma specifies the rules for entry, progression and promotion.

The Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment, as Chief Negotiator for maritime borders, presented the state of play on the position of Timor-Leste in this matter.

east timor law and justice bulletin etljb

17 December 2016

Council of Ministers meeting of 13 December 2016

Council of Ministers meeting on December 13th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, December 13th, 2016

Council of Ministers meeting on December 13th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met on Tuesday at the Government Palace in Dili, and approved the first amendment to the Government Decree on the 2016 State General Budget Execution, proposed by the Ministry of Finance. This Decree changes the rules on budget execution in the category of Salaries and Wages covered by Government Decree no. 1/2016 of January 14th. With this amendment the time limit for the submission of the staff maps is extend for Services Without Administrative and Financial Autonomy (in Portuguese: SSAAF), Autonomous Services and Funds (in Portuguese: SFA) and Autonomous Bodies Without Own Income (in Portuguese: OASRP), in order to ensure the implementation of the budget in their categories and allow for continuity of payments and reliable information on how much the State spends.

To improve the quality of the interpretation of the elections legal framework and, therefore, improving the organization of the electoral process, the Council of Ministers approved the 5th Amendment to the Electoral Law for the President of the Republic and the 4th Amendment to the Electoral Law for the National Parliament, both presented by the Minister of State, Coordinator of Administration Affairs and Justice and Minister of State Administration. The amendments seek to harmonize with the laws for the election administration bodies and the administrative division of the territory, recently amended, and to enable the electoral participation of Timorese citizens residing outside the country. In addition, the harmonization of the provisions of the electoral law with the National Parliament's regime and the introduction of rules on violations of party discipline, with consequences that can include the loss of the office of deputy, seek to strengthen the authority of parliamentary seats.Despite an increase to 5% of the total number of voters registered in the electoral census having been proposed as a threshold, the Council of Ministers decided to maintain the current 3% of votes validly cast in order to assign to any party parliamentary mandates.

The Minister of State, Coordinator of Economic Affairs and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, presented the draft Law on Arbitration, Mediation and Conciliation, which allows for an alternative resolution of trade disputes. It was prepared based on the version of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) model law, adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1985; in addition to commercial arbitration, it also regulates the mediation and conciliation of trade conflicts. This Government initiative is intended to encourage private investment and the consequent diversification of the economy.

east timor law and justice bulletin

Timor-Leste granted observer status by the World Trade Organisation

Timor-Leste granted observer status by the World Trade Organisation

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, December 16th, 2016

Timor-Leste granted observer status by the World Trade Organisation

On the 7th of December the General Council of the World Trade Organization agreed to establish a Working Party on the Accession of Timor-Leste and granted Timor-Leste observer status. This allows attendance at meetings of the General Council and “as appropriate, meetings of other WTO bodies as observers” during the process of accession.

Minister of State, Coordinating Minister of Economic Affairs, and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, H.E. Estanislau da Silva, thanked the General Council at the meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, saying that “WTO accession has been a major governance, institutional building, economic and foreign policy objective of the Government of Timor-Leste” and was a part of the Government’s program to accelerate growth and support economic diversification.

The Minister of State explained that enhancing access to markets and improving opportunities for trade is one part of the Government’s package of proactive policies “to attract and stimulate investment in the productive areas of the economy, such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, light manufacturing and mining, besides downstream oil and gas; while improving economic infrastructure, and improving the business environment.”

The Government sees the accession to the WTO as a complementary process to Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN and as an important facilitator of economic participation in the region. The ASEAN statement to the General Council in Geneva said "ASEAN welcomes the application of Timor-Leste to accede to the WTO.  ASEAN notes Timor-Leste’s commitment to the WTO accession process, and its efforts to undertake social and economic reforms to this end.  ASEAN urges all members to support Timor-Leste in its accession process and its integration into a multilateral trading system."

Spokesperson, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “the Government welcomes the decision of the General Council of the WTO and looks forward to engaging in accession negotiations in order to proceed to full membership”. ENDS

Constitution of the East Timorese Justice Civil Society Organisation, Fundasaun Mahein

CONSTITUTION
FUNDASAUN MAHEIN
GENERAL PREAMBLE
https://fundasaunmahein.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/consfmeng30june2009.pdf

Fundasuan Mahein was established in June 2009 to fill a gap in the ranks of Timorese
civil society by providing for fulltime monitoring and reporting on issues relating to the
developing Timorese security in a manner which can increase citizen participation in the
process. It is the mission of Fundasuan Mahein to strengthen and develop the security
sector so that it can grant safety and thus prosperity to all Timorese citizens.
Additionally, it is will be Fundasaun Mahein’s objective to increase the participation of
the media, other NGOs, and wider civil society to substantively engage in public policy
issues relating to the security sector in a more informed, impartial and constructive
manner.

1. GENERAL PRINCIPLES
Fundasuan Mahein’s acronym is FM and the short version of the name will from herein
be FM. FM is a Non-Governmental Organisation that is a non-profit, which intends to
partner with other NGOs that work on 1) human rights, 2) vulnerable persons and 3)
issues in rural Timor-Leste, in so far as it relates to safety and security of citizens and
those security and defense issues along with the institutions as mandated by the RDTL
constitution to provide safety and security.

13 December 2016

Government of East Timor pays respects to Dr. George Junus Aditjondro

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
 Dili, December 12th, 2016

Government pays respects to Dr. George Junus Aditjondro

It was with deep regret that the Government of Timor-Leste received news of the passing of Dr. George Junus Aditjondro on the 10th of December 2016. The Government conveys its condolences to Dr. Aditjondro’s family and friends.

As an Indonesian academic, activist, researcher and journalist, Dr. Aditjondro courageously exposed conditions in Timor-Leste during the years of struggle and remained a committed advocate for proper development after the restoration of independence in 2002.

Aditjondro visited Timor in May of 1974 as a correspondent of Indonesia’s Tempo magazine and in the following years interviewed various Timorese leaders of all political persuasions both inside and outside of Indonesia. Following the Santa Cruz massacre in 1991 he became a leading figure opposing the Indonesian occupation and was critical in exposing media reporting on Timor and the positions of Indonesian intellectuals, who he believed had allowed themselves to become influenced by censorship and media manipulation. Such criticism put Dr. Aditjondro at considerable risk.

In 1993 Dr. Aditjondro participated in the Fifth Symposium on East Timor held in Portugal at the University of Porto, working closely with Timorese activists, several of who are currently Ministers of the Sixth Constitutional Government. He also spent many years in Australia, in self-imposed exile, where he was a supportive colleague in the activist movement pressing for the self-determination of Timor-Leste.

On the 20th of May 2010, the National Parliament of Timor-Leste recognized the contribution of Dr. Aditjondro with the conferral of the Princess Grace of Monaco medal.

Besides his passion for Timor-Leste, Dr. Aditjondro was an unrelenting critic of corruption in Indonesia, a dedicated advocate for empowering local agricultural communities and a key figure in nurturing environmental awareness.

Government Spokesperson, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted that “the voice of Dr. George Aditjondro was crucial in challenging the thinking of many in Indonesia and Australia about the events occurring in Timor-Leste between 1975 and 1999. Through his commitment to exposing injustice, he undoubtedly played a part in moving us towards the restoration of our independence. His voice of advocacy, warm friendship towards the Timorese people and unremitting support in the struggle will not be forgotten".ENDS

etljb

10 December 2016

Indonesia-Timor Leste to conduct joint survey on border dispute

ETLJB Source: Antara News Senin, 1 Februari 2016 18:56 WIB
Indonesia-Timor Leste to conduct joint survey on border dispute
The border post of the Republic of Indonesia and Timor Leste. (ANTARA)

Kupang (ANTARA News) - The governments of Indonesia and Timor Leste will conduct a joint survey of some border areas in East Nusa Tenggara Province, which are still considered as disputed territory by the two countries.

The results of the joint research would serve as groundwork for conducting a joint discussion to determine the disputed boundaries between the two countries, Head of the Border Management Agency of East Nusa Tenggara Paul Manehat stated.

"The joint research would be conducted in the near future, involving delegations from both Indonesia and Timor Leste," he noted here on Monday.

The initiative to conduct a joint research is proposed by Indonesias Ministry of Foreign Affairs as in the latest meeting with the government of Timor Leste in Dili, last year, the two countries had not reached an agreement on how to deal with the border dispute.

Paul remarked that the research would focus on some disputed areas such as the Citrana-Noelbes area in Kupang regency and Oecuse and Manusasi in Central North Timor regency.

The research would also involve the traditional and community leaders who have been living in coexistence in each territory in the border areas since their views are necessary to obtain the actual data related to the history of the areas located on the existing boundary points.

"Such concept has been based on the agreement between the two countries. It is aimed at gaining the best result to solve the border issue, which has been a cause of rising tensions between Indonesia and Timor Leste," Paul stated.

Commander of Udayana IX Military District Major General M. Setyo Sularso claimed that there are at least six disputed border areas in East Nusa Tenggara between Indonesia and Timor Leste.

Sularso affirmed that the disputes between the countries are categorized into two types of border problems.

The first one is an unresolved segment, an issue related to the state border between Indonesia and Timor Leste in which the borderline has not been agreed upon or decided by the two countries.

The second one is an unsurveyed segment, an issue concerning the borderline, which has been decided by the two countries, but the people of Indonesia and Timor Leste are unaware of it.

There are two disputes that are considered as an unsurveyed segment. The first is related to an area in a river or delta along the Noelbesi-Citrana area, North Netamnanu village, East Amfoang sub-district, Kupang regency.

The river is 4.5 kilometers in length.

"Indonesia wants its boundary line to be located on the western side of the river," Sularso stated.

However, Timor Leste has a different point of view.

Without regard to the sterile area status, which means there must be no activity in the disputed area, Timor Leste has, in fact, already built permanent agricultural offices, meeting hall, logistics warehouse, rice mill, irrigation canals, and paved roads.

(Reported by Yohanes Adrianus/Uu.INE/KR-BSR/F001) ETLJB

Draft Law on Preventing and Combating Human Trafficking approved in East Timor Parliament

Wed. 26 of Outubro of 2016, 12:26h

The Government’s Draft Law on Preventing and Combating Human Trafficking was approved by final vote in the parliamentary session, on October 24th. The new law provides for measures to prevent and combat human trafficking and also lays down measures with regard to protection and assistance to the victims.

The new diploma takes into account the international obligations assumed by the Timorese State in this regard, particularly the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and its two additional Protocols: Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air and the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Human Trafficking, especially Women and Children.

The Government has now 180 days, from its entry into force, to approve the necessary rules for the implementation of the law, namely, for the creation of the Committee to Combat Human Anti-Trafficking.

This committee coordinates, at the national level, the actions of the various bodies responsible for preventing and combating human trafficking . It promotes and also ensures cooperation with foreign entities in combating human trafficking and monitors the enforcement of the provisions of the international conventions that Timor-Leste has ratified or will subsequently ratify on this matter.

The Committee to Combat Human Trafficking is also the entity in charge of preparing and co-ordinating the Human Anti-Trafficking National Plan, and is responsible for promoting and monitoring the implementation of the measures provided for therein.

The approval of this legal instrument is another important step for the country in the light of the respect of human rights. Next November, Timor-Leste will be submitted to a new Universal Periodic Review, at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

Source: http://timor-leste.gov.tl/?p=16579&lang=en&n=1

2017 General State Budget Approved Unanimously in Final Vote

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
 Dili, December 9th, 2016
2017 General State Budget Approved Unanimously in Final Vote

On the 9th of December National Parliament voted unanimously to give final approval to the 2017 General State Budget with 60 votes in favor, none against and no abstentions. The approved Budget has an estimated total expenditure of $1,386.8 million, with the main categories of expenses as Salaries and Wages $209.7 million, Goods and Services $395 million, Public Transfers $421 million, Minor Capital $12.1 million and Capital Development [including the Infrastructure Fund and loans] $349 million.

Speaking after the final vote Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo, thanked all members of National Parliament for “the democratic and constructive way in which the 2017 General State Budget was debated” and noted that for the Government the unanimous vote “represents a vote of confidence which the Sixth Constitutional Government, until the last day of its work, will want to honor, working with even more commitment to the People and the Nation.”

During its passage through National Parliament the Budget was considered in generality and approved unanimously on the 25th of November. After presenting questions and debating issues, Members tabled approximately 80 proposed amendments that were considered by the ‘Eventual Commission for the Collection and Analysis of Proposals for Amendments to the Draft Law’. The Prime Minister observed that National Parliament’s decision to set up the Commission lead to “frank and democratic” discussion and the accommodation of many proposed amendments “without compromising the tax ceiling initially established and without distorting the Government’s commitments regarding the implementation of projects, programs and activities proposed for 2017.”

Prior to the final unanimous vote on the 9th of December, the Budget was discussed in the Plenary and voted on in detail, with analysis of each article of the proposed draft law. The 2017 General State Budget Law will now be presented to the President of the Republic, H.E. Taur Matan Ruak, for promulgation.

Closing the National Parliament’s final session concerning the 2017 General State Budget, the Prime Minister reiterated the Government’s “commitment to carry out the program of its mandate” with its focus on measures “to make the non-oil economy more dynamic and to increase the sustainability of national development.” ENDS

08 December 2016

East Timor Council of Ministers Meeting of 25 October 2016

Council of Ministers meeting of October 25th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Sixth Constitutional Government
Dili, October 25th, 2016
Press Release
Council of Ministers meeting of October 25th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met on Tuesday at the Government Palace in Dili, and analysed the report assessing the implementation of the first phase (2011-2015) of the Strategic Development Plan (SDP). This plan was prepared in 2010, with short, medium and long-term development goals, for the period from 2011 to 2030. The deadline for the short-term goals ended in 2015. This report, which is the responsibility of the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit working within the Prime Minister's Office, had support from the European Union Delegation in Timor-Leste. The main conclusions and considerations regarding results achieved during this first phase of the implementation of the SDP were presented to the Council of Ministers. The report will now be reviewed according to suggestions from government agencies.

The Minister of State, Coordinator of Economic Affairs presented the solar energy project proposed by the company Solar Power Hera Unipessoal Lda. from the group SBI Offshore Ltd. This project proposes the production of solar energy to add to the existing electrical distribution network system. The many advantages presented included the reduction of costs related to energy production, employment creation, faster electrification of rural areas and the reduction of pollution in the country.
The project for the creation of the National Institute of Social Security, IP, to manage and implement the Social Security system, was presented by the Ministry of Social Solidarity. Suggestions made by the Council of Ministers will now be incorporated in the Decree-Law, and the document will return to be analysed by the Council of Ministers in the near future.

The draft Government Resolution and draft document on the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) for the reduction of greenhouse gases were presented by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Environment. These were examined by the Government, in order to complete the documents, which should soon be presented to the United Nations (UN). National contributions were requested from countries participating in the UN Climate Change Conference, held in Paris in December 2015.

The proposal of the Prime Minister, to change the Law no. 7/2007, from July 25th, on the Status of the Holders of Sovereign Bodies was approved, in order to allow the promotion of members of sovereign bodies that are civil servants, ensuring that all holders (President of the Republic, President of the National Parliament, Prime Minister, President of the Supreme Court of Justice and members of the Government) can perform functions with a more demanding functional content and better suited to the experience and degree of responsibility that they acquired by virtue of the functions in the sovereign bodies.

The draft Government Resolution for completing the cooperation agreement with Portugal in matters of Internal Security, presented by the Minister of the Interior, was approved. This ensures the  continuation of the current cooperation programmes for the training of Timorese security forces, services and civil protection. ENDS

ETLJB

Meeting of the Easst Timor Council of Ministers of 14 June 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of June 14th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, June 14th, 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers from June 14th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met this Tuesday, at the Government Palace in Dili, and approved:
1. Amendment of Government Resolution N. 10/2014, of April 9th, which creates the National Commission for the Implementation of Measures to Combat Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism

After the Minister of Justice presented the first National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (AML/TF), the Council of Ministers approved an amendment to the Government Resolution N. 10/2014, of April 9th.

The amendment aims to increase the operability of all responsible bodies. It was considered necessary to include other bodies dealing directly with cross-border activities and criminal phenomena. The Ministers of Justice, Finance, Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, and Interior, as well as the Public Prosecutor of the Republic, Governor of the Central Bank, Anticorruption Commissioner, President of the Civil Service Commission, PNTL Commissioner, National Director of the PCIC, Executive Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit, Executive Coordinator of SERVE, Director Generals of the Migration Services, Taxes, and Customs, are now all part of the National Commission for the Implementation of Measures to Combat Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (in Portuguese CNCBC).

2. National Strategic Plan to Combat Money Laundering/Financing of Terrorism
The Council of Ministers approved the document setting out the National Strategic Plan to Combat ML/TF, submitted by the Minister of Justice, who presides over the National Commission for the Implementation of Measures to Combat Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism. This Plan stems from the risk assessment process on Timor-Leste, carried out in 2012 by the Asia Pacific Group (APG). The Plan intends to implement, sequentially, several measures which help to achieve the National Strategic Objectives 2016-2020, to reinforce the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.

3. The Government Resolution that assigns the name to the Reference Hospital in the Municipality of Baucau After analysis during the meeting of the Council of Ministers of June 7th, 2016, the Council of Ministers assigned to the Regional Hospital of Baucau the name: the Regional Hospital Eduardo Ximenes, in homage to the Eduardo Ximenes, a nurse, political activist and martyr of the national liberation struggle.

4. Decree-law on the 1st Amendment to Decree-Law N. 7/2014, of April 12th, on the Statute of the Military of the Armed Forces
This first amendment to the Decree-law approved at the meeting of the Council of Ministers on July 16th, 2013 focuses on the renewal of the mandate of the Chief of Staff, which up to now was limited to two mandates. With this approval, provisionally and exceptionally, the mandate may be renewed for a third term.

5. Technical Agreement on "Smallholder cattle enterprise development in Timor-Leste"
The Council of Ministers approved the technical agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAP) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, related to the Memorandum of Understanding on technical cooperation signed with Australia in 2003. This five-year agreement aims to increase the incomes of cattle producers and market intermediaries in Timor-Leste. The University of Queensland (Australia), MAF, National University of Timor-Lorosa'e and the University of Mataram (Indonesia) are involved in this project.

etljb

JSMP Case Summary Baucau District Court January 2016

JSMP Summary of the Trial Process Oe-cusse District Court February 2016

ETLJB Source: Edited by Warren L. Wright east-timor-news, timor-leste-news, east-timor, timor-leste, southeast-asia, legal-news, law-and-justice, asia, asian-law, asian-news, timor

06 December 2016

Conciliation Commission established with the appointment of its Chair

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, June 29th, 2016

Conciliation Commission established with the appointment of its Chair

The Government of Timor-Leste has been advised that the four members appointed to the Conciliation Commission have now appointed the fifth and final member, Ambassador Takoe-Jensen. The fifth member is the Chair of the Commission, the other members of which are the four party appointed conciliators, Judge Abdul Koroma and Judge Rüdiger Wolfrum (appointed by Timor-Leste) and Dr Rosalie Balkin and Professor Donald McRae (appointed by Australia).

The Conciliators are experts in the field of international law and are independent of the parties. The appointment of the Chair allows the Conciliation to move to the next step in its process - its first procedural meeting to discuss process and procedures.

ETLJB

Results demonstrate Government progress in implementing the Strategic Development Plan for East Timor

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, June 22nd, 2016

Results demonstrate Government progress in implementing the Strategic Development Plan

The finalizing of an agreement that enables the beginning of construction next year of a world-class port is the latest evidence that the Government is making progress in implementing the Strategic Development Plan 2011-2030. The port at Tibar, about twelve kilometers west of Dili, is scheduled to be operational by 2020 and is an essential infrastructure project to support Timor-Leste’s economic growth and diversification.

The Program of the Sixth Constitutional Government is guided by the Strategic Development Plan 2011-2030 which sets out how “Timor-Leste will invest in the core and productive infrastructure needed to sustain a growing, productive and connected nation.”

The port will join the completion of the National Electricity Grid and the completion of quality roads and bridges as a significant component of this “core and productive infrastructure”. Since 2010 Timor-Leste’s national electrical capacity has risen by 130%. Household access has more than doubled.

Timor-Leste is now seeing the results of essential infrastructure development and reforms to develop a business friendly environment, with the beginning of considerable foreign investment.

Construction of the Heineken beverage plant in Hera is well underway and the plant is set to commence local production in December 2016.

TL Cement, is targeting ‘ground breaking’ in March 2017 and completion by the end of 2019. This Baucau based facility is scheduled for local cement supply and production in 2018.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “The Government is making progress in delivering on essential infrastructure as set out in the nation’s Strategic Development Plan. We will continue to do what must be done to put Timor-Leste on the path of sustainable development by supporting the diversification of our economy and encouraging investment to generate employment opportunities.”ENDS

ETLJB

Timor-Leste’s efforts recognized on World No Tobacco Day

Timor-Leste’s efforts recognized on World No Tobacco Day

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, May 31st, 2016

Timor-Leste’s efforts recognized on World No Tobacco Day

Today, the 31st of May, is World No Tobacco Day. The World Health Organization promotes this day as an opportunity to underline the negative health consequences of tobacco use and to recognize individuals and organizations for their efforts in contributing to the reduction of tobacco use.

Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo, as a part of an ongoing social campaign, has today delivered a special television message to the nation noting the high use of tobacco in Timor-Leste with “70% of men and 42% of youth in the age group of 13-15 years consuming tobacco products.” He said that the message to stop the bad habit of tobacco use was “an important one for the future of the Nation because of the dangerous impact to the health of the Timorese people.”

The Sixth Constitutional Government has taken significant steps to reduce tobacco use. The Government has rolled out a campaign on television and radio warning of the dangers of tobacco use and encouraging smokers to ‘quit’. Medical personnel have been trained to assist people to give up their smoking habit and legislation has been considered that looks to restrict advertising of tobacco, limits smoking in enclosed public spaces and prohibits the sale of tobacco products to children.

In recognition of his leadership in contributing to these measures and fostering a healthier Timor-Leste the World Health Organization has conferred this years World No Tobacco Day Award in the South-East Asia Region to Prime Minister Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo. The World Health Organization Representative to Timor-Leste, Dr. Rajesh Pandav, called the Prime Minister’s leadership on this issue “a path-breaking example for other developing countries.” Prime Minister Araújo was nominated for the award by Health Alliance International.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “the health consequences of Timor-Leste’s high tobacco consumption cannot be ignored. For our development and to enable us to create a healthy future for the young people of our nation, measures to curb the use of tobacco are essential. As the Prime Minister has noted in his television message today, people should quit tobacco use because they care about their own health and because they care about the health of the Nation.”

ETLJB

Meeting of the East Timor Council of Ministers of 24 May 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of May 24th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, May 24th, 2016

Press Release

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of May 24th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met this Tuesday, at the Government Palace in Dili, and approved:

1. Decree-Law on the Regime for Ministerial Offices

This diploma updates the composition, structure and regime of the Government members’ offices to allow for a better implementation of their support structures. Until now members’ offices including the Office of the Prime Minister, were not regulated by legislation.

Recruitment rules for qualified labour are covered through the use of public servants or term contracts, which include confidentiality undertakings necessary for such roles.

2. Decree-law that creates the Authority for Inspection and Supervision of Economic, Health and Food Activities, PI

This diploma creates the Authority for Inspection and Supervision of Economic, Health and Food Activities, with powers to inspect and monitor economic activities, animal health conditions and control food quality.

This public institute is granted with authority and competence to instruct administrative offence processes and impose fines and penalties in the event of law infringement, as well as to promote actions for the dissemination of information aiming to reduce risks encountered in the food chain and risks to public health. This activity also intends to ensure regulated operations within the food and non-food industries, protecting consumers and the national economy.

This measure meets one of the Government Programme priorities, which provides for the relaunch of consumer protection policy and the improvement of the population’s living conditions, as well as the regulation of economic activities.

3. Decree-law on rules for access and classification of official documents

This diploma establishes the rules concerning public access to official documents and their classification regarding confidentiality. Uniform criteria are established for the relationship between public authorities and parties who may be interested in accessing official information, aiming to protect subjects, when indiscriminate use of information may affect the interests of the State.


The Council of Ministers also reviewed:

East Timor Cement Project set to advance with signing of Special Investment Agreement

TL Cement Project set to advance with signing of Special Investment Agreement

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, May 19th, 2016

TL Cement Project set to advance with signing of Special Investment Agreement

The TL Cement project came one step closer to fruition on Tuesday evening when the Government of Timor-Leste signed a Special Investment Agreement with the company TL Cement Lda.

At a signing ceremony conducted at Hotel Ramelau in Dili, Minister of State, Coordinator of Economic Affairs H.E. Estanislau da Silva explained that the Government was assisting the project to proceed by signing a Special Investment Agreement and by signing a ‘non binding letter of intent’ signaling that the Government would take an equity stake in the project in the future.

The Minister of State said that these measures sent a strong message that “the Government wants to see this cement plant built, and as soon as possible!”

Managing Director of TL Cement, Mr. James Rhee, expressed his appreciation for the agreement and his enthusiasm for the Baucau based project, which will bring substantial benefits to Timor-Leste including training opportunities, taxes and royalties and an estimated 650 full time jobs.

The cement plant will be based near a vast source of high quality limestone in the Baucau region and produce cement clinker base for export, and cement for domestic supply in Timor-Leste. The local community will be the first beneficiaries of the project through participation in the construction of a training facility. Longer term benefits are set to be widespread as the Government works with the company to ensure that personnel are recruited for the plant from all municipalities of Timor-Leste.

All three of the Governments economic reforms objectives; to increase private investment, promote economic diversification and increase sustainable employment are met in the TL Cement project. At the ceremony on Tuesday evening investment certificates were also signed with L&O Unipessoal (hospitality), Palm Spring Hotel Lda. and Stamford Medical Lda.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira expressed his appreciation for the progress of the project and noted that “the success of the TL Cement will send a positive signal to other foreign investors and add to a growing confidence that Timor-Leste is indeed a place to do business.”

ETLJB

Timor-Leste set to host International Conference on Maritime Boundaries and the Law of the Sea

Timor-Leste set to host International Conference on Maritime Boundaries and the Law of the Sea

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, May 18th, 2016

Timor-Leste set to host International Conference on Maritime Boundaries and the Law of the Sea

Some of the world’s foremost experts on maritime boundaries and the law of the sea have arrived in Timor-Leste to participate in a unique international conference to take place tomorrow at the Dili Convention Centre.

The ‘Dili International Conference: Maritime Boundaries and the Law of the Sea’ has been organized by Timor-Leste’s Maritime Boundary Office to raise awareness of the importance of the law of the sea and the role of international tribunals in resolving disputes peacefully. The conference coincides with the 20th anniversary of the establishment the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea [ITLOS] set up by the United Nations in 1996 and features the current President of ITLOS, Judge Vladimir Golitsyn as a keynote speaker.

After Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo opens the Conference on Thursday morning the President of ITLOS delivers his keynote address. Two panel discussions are set to follow. The first, including President Golitsyn [Russia], Professor Vaughan Lowe QC [UK] and Ambassador Eddy Pratomo [Indonesia], moderated by Minister of State H.E Dionisio Babo Soares, considers ‘Global Perspectives on Maritime Boundaries’. The second with Minister of State H.E. Agio Pereira, Ms. Jalila Abdul Jalil [Malaysia], Mr. I Made Andi Arsana [Indonesia] and Dr. Hao Duy Phan [Singapore], moderated by Ms. Janelle Saffin, focuses on ‘Regional Perspectives on Maritime Boundaries’, in particular, the Timor Sea.

The main themes emerging from the conference will be summarized by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, H.E. Hernâni Coelho before closing remarks are delivered by. H.E. Mari Alkatiri.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira expressed his appreciation for those coming to participate in the Conference and said “the Government of Timor-Leste welcomes delegates and welcomes the opportunity to facilitate discussion on the role of the Law of the Sea and maritime boundaries.” He noted “Timor-Leste values the role of international law in dispute resolution and recognizes the important role of bodies such as ITLOS in protecting the rights of smaller states and promoting the peaceful resolution of disputes.” ENDS

ETLJB

Multidimensional Poverty in East Timor: Different Approaches to Old Data

Different Approaches to Old Data

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, May 17th, 2016

Different Approaches to Old Data

Last week some media reports appeared declaring that over 68% of Timorese people live in multidimensional poverty. This may have come as a shock to those who are familiar with figures for poverty previously quoted by the Government of 49.9% [World Bank 2008] for the year 2007 and 41% for the year 2009 [World Bank 2010]. These two percentages, whilst still representing the massive challenge of poverty for our nation, showed an encouraging downward trend.

The 68.1% figure for Timor-Leste’s ‘Multidimensional Poverty Index’ [MPI] poor was quoted by Monash University Professor Brett Inder in a presentation in Dili last Tuesday and comes from an alternative method of measurement being applied to old data from 2007-2010. The 49.9% and 41% figures use the more conventional  ‘Consumption Poverty’ method, estimating the percentage of people living under a ‘national poverty line’.

Professor Inder’s figure of 68.1% for Timor-Leste’s MPI poor is quoted in report called Measuring Poverty and Wellbeing in Timor-Leste published by the Monash Centre for Development Economics and Sustainability in July 2015. This report explains how the MPI looks at 10 indicators across three dimensions of Education, Health and Living Standards and warns “the two approaches [MPI and Consumption] rely on different sets of information, and the method for calculating the index is completely different. So it is not possible to compare the values.”

Interestingly the Report, using the MPI approach recognizes significant improvement between 2007 and 2010 saying “In 2007, 70% of households were in multidimensional poverty, while in 2010 the proportion was only 63%. This is a clear improvement in wellbeing over a relatively short period, a very encouraging result.”

The MPI discussed in the Measuring Poverty and Wellbeing in Timor-Leste report captures no data after 2010 and so does not reflect any of the progress made since then. It is expected that progress in areas such as access to electricity, and improvements in sanitation and malnutrition, just to name a few, will have a considerable impact on any new calculation of Timor-Leste’s MPI.

The yet to be released 2014/2015 Timor-Leste Standard of Living Survey will be the most comprehensive new set of data that can assist to get a more complete picture of progress.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “The improvement of the wellbeing of the Timorese people is the number one priority of Government. This means assisting vulnerable people now, doing what we can to boost health, education and living standards and setting a course for sustainable long term development through the growth of a diversified economy supported by quality basic infrastructure. Although the figures being discussed using the Consumption and MPI methods rely on old data, it is encouraging that both show poverty reduction between 2007 and 2009/10. Academic analysis can help us to plan and develop good policy and is welcome, particularly when it deals with the most up to date data.”

Meeting of the East Timor Council of Ministers of 17 May 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of May 17th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, May 17th, 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers from May 17th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met this Tuesday, at the Government Palace in Dili, and approved:

1. Proposal for a Resolution of National Parliament to approve an agreement in the area of trade between Timor-Leste and Vietnam

Vietnam is a member of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and supports the candidacy of Timor-Leste to become a full member of this organization. The two countries have maintained a mutually beneficial relationship of cooperation. Thus, Government sends to the National Parliament an agreement that aims to develop economic and commercial relations between the two countries, so that the sovereign body may ratify it.

 2. Decree-Law on the Organizational Structure of the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources

In order to face the great challenges ahead in the area of mineral resources, it is essential to define and approve the organizational structure of the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, the government entity with responsibilities in the oil, gas and mineral sectors. With the approval of its organic law, the Government aims to give this ministry a structure that will enable it to efficiently carry out its tasks, thus contributing to the improvement of the services it provides and the further development of existing human resources.

05 December 2016

Submisaun JSMP ba Komisaun Reforma Setór Lejislativa no Justisa Maiu 2016

JUDICIAL SYSTEM MONITORING PROGRAMME
PROGRAMA MONITORIZASAUN SISTEMA JUDISIÁRIU


Submisaun JSMP ba Komisaun Reforma Setór Lejislativa no Justisa
Maiu 2016

Data : 13 Maiu 2016
Númeru : 7/S/V/2016

Asuntu        : Submisaun JSMP ba asuntu sira iha setór lejislativu no justisa


Bodik ba     : Ex.mo Dr. Jorge Manuel Ferreira da Graça,
Prezidente Komisaun Reforma Setór Lejislativu no Justisa

Hosi            : JSMP (Judicial System Monitoring Programme)

Saudasoins Justisa!

Uluk nanain, lori JSMP nia naran, ami hakarak saúda Sr. Prezidente Komisaun ho Membru Permanente Komisaun Reforma sira tomak ba servisu importante ne’ebé Estadu depozita ba Ita-Boot sira. JSMP hanoin katak prezensa ‘Komisaun Reforma Setór Lejislativu no Justisa’ (‘Komisaun’) ne’e importante no pertinente tebetebes.

Antes hato’o ami nia hanoin relasiona asuntu sira ne’ebé ami hanoin importante atu konsidera ba nesesidade reforma, permite ami atu introdús ami nia knaar ne’ebé ami dezempeña durante ne’e.

Kona-ba JSMP

JSMP (Judicial System Monitoring Programme) hanesan organizasaun sosiedade sivíl independente ida ne’ebé servisu atu garante justisa ba ema hotu. JSMP estabelese iha loron 28 fulan Abril 2001, ho papel institusionál atu monitoriza prosesu Tribunál Ad Hoc iha Jakarta, Indonézia no Painél Espesiál ba Krime Graves iha Timor- Leste. JSMP hala’o atividade monitorizasaun ba prosesu julgamentu iha tribunál distritál haat no Tribunál Rekursu, no halo akompañamentu intensivu no rigorizu ba dezenvolvimentu iha sistema justisa formal iha Timor-Leste.

JSMP mós observa atividade lejislativu iha Parlamentu Nasionál, partikularmente Komisaun A. JSMP regularmente prodús relatóriu anuál, relatóriu temátiku, komunikadu imprensa, sumáriu kazu no submisaun ba ezbosu lei sira ne’ebé prepara hosi governu no Parlamentu Nasionál. Atu hetan informasaun detallu liu kona-ba JSMP, favor vizita JSMP nia website iha: www.jsmp.tl

Ho referénsia ba Rezolusaun Governu Nú. 30/2015, JSMP aprezenta asuntu sira tuir mai ne’ebé JSMP konsidera importante no nesesariu atu reforma.  Embora iha varias asuntu ne’ebé nesesita ba reforma, maibé iha oportunidade ne’e, JSMP limita-an atu lista asuntu balun hanesan iha dokumentu aneksu. Ami hein hola laran-metin atu deskute asuntu hirak ne’e diretamente ho Señor Prezidente no Membru Komisáriu sira tuir ita boot sira nia disponibilidade.

Tribunál Rekursu husu JSMP atu halo observasaun substánsial ba tribunál sira

JUDICIAL SYSTEM MONITORING PROGRAMME
PROGRAMA MONITORIZASAUN BA SISTEMA JUDISIÁRIU


Komunikadu Imprensa
10 Maiu 2016

Tribunál Rekursu husu JSMP atu halo observasaun substánsial ba tribunál sira

Iha 05 Maiu 2016, ekipa JSMP ne’ebé kompostu husi diretór no kordenador unidade sira halo audénsia ho Meritíssima Dra. Maria Natercia Gusmão nu’udar Prezidente Interina Tribunál Rekursu. Dra. Maria Natercia Gusmão  agora dadaun subsitui Prezidente Tribunál Rekursu durante Prezidente Tribunál Rekursu, Dr. Guilhermino da Silva, iha auzensia tanba kondisaun saúde. Audiénsia ne’e hala’o iha Tribunál Rekursu Kaikoli Dili.

Audiénsia ne’e ho obejtivu atu intrega relatóriu anuál JSMP kona-ba Observasaun Jerál ba Setór Justisa (OJS) 2015 no Relatóriu Atividade Lejislativu Parlamentu Nasionál 2015. Durante audénsia ne’e JSMP uja atu diskute kestaun asesibilidade julgamentu iha Tribunál Rekursu no aprezenta JSMP nia deskobrementu sira relasiona ho funsionamentu tribunál distritál sira no Parlamentu Nasionál liuhosi JSMP ninia relatóriu anuál hirak ne’e.

Meritíssima Dra. Maria Natercia Gusmão, agradese JSMP tanba sai ona parseiru di’ak ba tribunál sira. Dra. Gusmão husu atu JSMP halo observasaun substansiál no analiza tuir provizaun legal aplikavel sira atu iha balansu entre krítika hirak ne’e no kualidade krítika ne’e rasik..

“Audénsia ne’e importante tanba tribunál rekursu bele fó fatin no oportunidade ba JSMP atu hasoru malu ho juis tribunál rekursu no bele diskute diretamente  JSMP nia rezultadu monitorizasaun ho juis sira,” dehan Diretór ezekutivu JSMP, Luis de Oliveira Sampaio.

Iha relatóriu OJS ba tinan 2015 nian, JSMP rekomenda asuntu rua ba Tribunál Rekursu atu konsidera, liuliu iha rekomenasaun númeru 10 no 11 hosi relatóriu OJS ne’ebé subliña kona-ba

10. Tribunál Rekursu tenke konsidera publika oráriu julgamentu no atualiza nia website atu asegura desizaun sira atualizadu no publika kedas desizaun sira ne’ e depoisde halo julgamentu.

11. Tribunál Rekursu tenke hala'o julgamentu barak liu no permite prosesu hirak ne'e atu hetan asesu husi monitór/observadór sira iha tribunál hodi garante katak prosesu hirak ne’e transparente no nakloke ba kontrolu públika.

Aleinde ne’e, JSMP mós diskute kestaun seluk kona-ba interpretasaun ba Artigu 113 (1) no (2) Konstituisaun RDTL relasiona ho imunidade ba membru Governu sira. Asuntu ne’e mós elabora iha JSMP nia rekomendasaun númeru 22 hosi relatóriu OJS ne’e (relatóriu kompletu bele asesu iha www.jsmp.tl)

JSMP haksolok tebes tanba Tribunál Rekursu nakloke-an no hakarak kolabora ho JSMP. Audénsia ne’e taka ho intrega relatóriu observasaun Jerál Setór Justisa 2015, no Relatóriu Observasaun Parlamentár 2015.

ETLJB

Tribunál Distritál Suai kondena pena tinan 10 prizaun ba arguidu ne’ebé komete krime abuzu seksuál ba menór

JUDICIAL SYSTEM MONITORING PROGRAMME
PROGRAMA MONITORIZASAUN SISTEMA JUDISIÁL



Komunikadu Imprensa
Tribunál Distritál Suai
09 Maiu 2016

Tribunál Distritál Suai kondena pena tinan 10 prizaun ba arguidu ne’ebé komete krime abuzu seksuál ba menór

Iha 03 Maiu 2016, Tribunál Distritál Suai prezide leitura akordaun no kondena arguidu MdC ho pena prizaun tinan 10. Tribunál deskobre katak arguidu provadu komete krime abuzu seksuál hasoru lezada ne’ebé foin tinan 11.  Tribunál deskobre katak arguidu obriga kolu lezada nia ropa, hatuur lezada iha nia hitin halo abuzu seksuál ba lezada.

Tribunaìl konklui katak arguidu provadu kontra artigu 177 (2) Koìdigu Penal kona-ba praìtika aktu seksuaìl relevante ho labarik ne’ebeì seidauk tinan 14 ho moldura penal tinan 5 to’o 15 konjuga ho artigu 182 (1) letra (a) Koìdigu Penaìl kona-ba agravasaun. Ne’e implika nia moldura penal agrava datoluk ida iha nia limite miìnimu no maìximu tanba viìtima nia idade ki’ik liu tinan 12.

Durante julgamentu arguidu rekuza faktus sira ne’ebé akuza ba nia. Maibé bazeia ba deklarasaun hosi lezada ne’ebé kontinua matein ho faktu sira katak arguidu komete duni krime refere. Aleinde ne’e tribunál mós prova bazeia ba depoimentu hosi lezada nia maun ne’ebé hare akontesimentu no reforsa liutan ho prova dokumental sira hanesan fotografia no relatóriu médiku hosi Ospitál Referal Ainaro ne’ebé hatudu indikasaun katak iha kanek no moras iha nia-orgaun seksuál.

"JSMP konsidera esforsu tomak hosi tribunál atu lori arguidu sira kumpri sira ninia hahalok iha prizaun maibé JSMP kontinua husu tribunál atu kondena arguidu sira ho pena másimu tuir lei penal haruka atu asegura katak iha balansu entre sentensa no gravidade hosi krime ne’ebé arguidu sira komete" dehan Diretór Ezekutivu JSMP, Luis de Oliveira Sampaio.

JSMP hanoin katak sentensa ne’e la atinze pena másimu hosi krime ne’e, tanba pena másimu ne’ebé agrava hosi krime ne’e tuir loloos mak tenke tinan 20 iha prizaun. Enkuantu sentensa ba krime ne’e mak tinan 10 prizaun mesmu kazu ne’e arguidu komete hasoru vítima ne’e foin mak tinan 11.

JSMP kontinua husu ba tribunaìl sira atu aleinde kondena arguidu sira ho pena prizaun, kondena mós arguidu sira selu indemnizasaun sivíl ba lezada, nu’udar forma reparasaun no rekonÞesementu ida ba lezada nia sofrementu.

Hanesan dalabarak ona JSMP subliña katak abuzu seksuál ba labarik iha kualker maneira tenke konsidera hanesan hahalok ne’ebé grave tebe-tebes, nune’e resposta krime hirak ne’e tenke ho maneira ida ne’ebé komprensivu atu ekilíbriu ho arguidu nia hahalok. Krime abuzu seksuál hasoru labarik la merese hetan toleransia atu ema hotu sente katak tantu sosiédade no instituisaun publiku sira kondena makaas abuzu seksuál ba labarik sira.

Iha alegasaun finál, ministériu públiku husu ba tribunál atu kondena arguidu ho pena prizaun tinan 12. Entretantu defeza husu ba tribunál atu tetu didiak kazu ne’e no aplika pena ne’ebé justu no adekuadu ba arguidu.

Kazu ne’e rejista iha tribunál ho Númeru Prosesu: 22/pen/2016/TDS. Julgamentu akordaun ne’e prezide hosi reprezentante juis koletivu, Dr. Samuel da Costa Pacheco. Ministériu Públiku reprezenta hosi Dr. Bartolomeu de Araújo no arguidu hetan defeza hosi Dr. Manuel Amaral hosi Eskritóriu Defensória Públiku.

ETLJB

Meeting of the East Timor Council of Ministers of 3 May 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of May 3rd, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, May 3rd, 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of May 3rd, 2016

The Council of Ministers met this Tuesday, May 3rd, 2016, at the Government Palace in Dili and approved:

1. Draft Law for Commercial Companies

The current Law N. 4/2004 is largely out-of-date in its solutions. Given the economic development programme designed by this Government, it is necessary to establish a legal regime for commercial companies, so as to simplify and facilitate the creation of small and medium-sized commercial enterprises. The drafting of this proposal has been preceded by a study done with the technical support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and its results were presented in November 2015 to the private sector, to the relevant ministries and other development partners, for discussion and debate. This draft law is part of a programme of legislative reforms that includes a legal regime review for SERVE (“SERVE - Serviço de Registo e Verificação Empresarial”), the laws for Commercial Registration and Licensing Procedures and a Law on Insolvency and Corporate Recovery.

2. Decree-Law on the Legal Regime for Licensing and Operation of Travel Agencies

The present diploma, submitted by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, regulates the licensing process and operation of travel agencies and aims to safeguard the rights of all that use them. Travel agencies are of great importance for the growth of the tourism, sector, one of the strategic sectors identified in the  National Development Plan.

 3. Decree-Law on the Legal Regime for the Classification of Camping Sites

Because of the extraordinary characteristics of the country for adventure tourism and the predicted growth in numbers of visitors hiking and camping, the Government has moved to regulate the licensing, installation, classification, operation and supervision of camping sites, to guarantee, in particular, safety, health and hygiene conditions in this type of infrastructure.

4. Proposal for a National Parliament Resolution: approval of UNESCO’s Constitution

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has a mission “to contribute to the  building of a culture of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information.”. Timor-Leste acceded to UNESCO on June 5th, 2003, and, under point (a) of article 115 of RDTL’s Constitution, the Government now presents to the National Parliament a proposal for the ratification of UNESCO’s Constitution.

The Council of Ministers also reviewed:

1. Draft Decree-Law on the Establishment of Special Tourist Areas

The Council of Ministers examined a proposal to establish special tourist areas with a view to attracting investment in the tourism sector. The development of policy in this area seeks to create high quality tourism infrastructure whilst preserving and enhancing Timor-Leste’s natural beauty. Special tourist areas are a basis for sustainable tourism development, particularly in regards to landscape preservation and environmental management.

Government of East Timor recognises World Press Freedom Day

Government recognizes World Press Freedom Day

Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, May 4th, 2016

Government recognizes World Press Freedom Day

Yesterday the Government of Timor-Leste expressed its support of World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993 and celebrated each year since on the 3rd of May.

In a video message the Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo, noted that “ensuring public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements” was a target of Goal 16 of the new United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Regarding this goal to “promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies”, the Prime Minister said “the Government is committed to work even harder to achieve this goal, with the collaboration and participation of the whole society, including journalists and media.”

Press Freedom in Timor-Leste is guaranteed by the Constitution of Timor-Leste particularly Section 40 regarding “Freedom of speech and information” and Section 41 “Freedom of the press and mass media”. After so many years of media constraint under colonization and occupation those responsible for drafting the constitution understood the importance of press freedom.

Timor-Leste’s Media Law was passed by National Parliament and promulgated on 13 November 2014. The law set out to ensure freedom of the press and promote the necessary balance between the exercise of this fundamental freedom and other constitutionally protected rights and values. As well as seeking to strike the proper balance between rights and responsibilities, media regulations aim to encourage the development of this dynamic sector and support the development of its professional standards.

In March this year the independent Press Council was fully constituted with its five members including two representatives of journalists elected by fellow journalists, two citizens appointed by National Parliament and one representative of media bodies elected by colleagues. Amongst the Press Council’s responsibilities are the promotion of freedom of expression and independence of the media and the support of the development of professional, technical and analytical skills of journalists.

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “The power of media was a key driver in advancing our struggle for self determination. On World Press Freedom Day we recognize the importance of press freedom to our democracy.”

ETLJB

Compulsory Conciliation moves to the next step but could be avoided by a commitment to negotiations on maritime boundaries between Australia and East Timor

5 December 2016 Source: GOvernment of East Timor Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Dili, 2 May, 2016

Compulsory Conciliation moves to the next step but could be avoided by a

commitment to negotiations on maritime boundaries

Today the Government of Australia has notified Timor-Leste of the appointment of its two conciliators for the

Compulsory Conciliation proceedings initiated by Timor-Leste on the 11th of April 2016.

Arising from Australia's on-going refusal to negotiate a permanent maritime boundary, Timor-Leste commenced the proceedings, conducted under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to facilitate the conclusion of an agreement with Australia on permanent maritime boundaries.

Australia has permanent boundaries with all of its neighbours except Timor-Leste, despite agreeing to negotiate boundaries in treaties over a decade ago and as required to do under international law. Prime

Minister, Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo has explained that “establishing permanent maritime boundaries is a matter of national priority for Timor-Leste, as the final step in realising our sovereignty as an independent State.”

The conciliation process is to be conducted by a panel of five independent conciliators who constitute a Conciliation Commission. Timor-Leste’s two appointed conciliators were named in its notice. The panel of four is now required to agree a fifth member as chair within 30 days.

The function of the Commission is set out in UNCLOS Annex V is to “hear the parties, examine their claims and objections, and make proposals to the parties with a view to reaching an amicable settlement.” The Commission seeks to encourage the parties to sit together and try to resolve their differences, effectively by third party assisted negotiation. If this is not successful within 12 months, the Commission will issue its recommendation in the form of a report.

Chief Negotiator for Maritime Boundaries, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão said in Sydney last Friday

"We've always wanted to negotiate, as countries are obliged to do under international law. An important point to note is that Australia could agree at any time now to negotiate maritime boundaries or allow the international court to make a determination as to where the boundary should be and we would welcome such a development.”

Spokesperson for the Sixth Constitutional Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira added “Timor-Leste is ready to fully engage with the Commission as it seeks to assist both our countries to reach an amicable settlement. However this is a process that should not have been necessary between friends.”ENDS

Republished by East Timor Law and Justice Bulletin

04 December 2016

East Timor Council of Ministers Meeting of 20 April 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of April 20th, 2016

Presidency of the Council of Ministers

Sixth Constitutional Government

Dili, April 20th, 2016

Meeting of the Council of Ministers of April 20th, 2016

The Council of Ministers met this Wednesday, April 20th, 2016, at the Government Palace in Dili, and approved:

1. Decree Law on the Basic Law for Land Use

The Constitution establishes the fundamental objective for land-use policy as the promotion of harmonious and integrated development of the sectors and regions, and fair division of the National Product. The Decree Law on the Basic Law for Land Use provides for the existence of two major types of instruments of regional planning: those of national scope and those of municipal scope. Its approval allows to the Government to define the guiding principles and objectives of the Administration, to identify various public interests with territorial dimensions, to use regional planning instruments as a means of Public Administration intervention, as well as to define the typology and the objectives such instruments have to follow.

2. Decree Law on the 1st amendment to the Organic Law of the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice

The structure of this institution was approved during the meeting of the Council of Ministers of April 13th, 2011. However, different functions and responsibilities have led to an increase in the volume of work encountered and the creation of positions such as researchers, monitors, trainers, officers and assistants, to provide expertise in the functions needing to be carried out..This amendment opts for a mixed, reduced and more operational structure.

3. Decree Law on the structure of the Secretariat of State for Youth and Sports

In line with the economic policy of the current Government, the Secretariat of State of Youth and Sports intends to adopt a simple and efficient structure, with only one Directorate-General in coordination with six National Directorates. The SSYS is under the subordination of the Minister of State, Coordinator of Social Affairs and has the mission to devise, implement, coordinate and assess policy in areas concerning the promotion of well being and the development of youth, physical education and sport.

4. Decree Law on the licensing process of advertising messages

At the meeting of the Council of Ministers of September 14th, 2011 , the Legal Regime of advertising activities was approved, in its general form. Due to the growth of economic activity and the requirements of coexistence among consumers and the various services, this Decree-Law comes, for the first time, to impose a normative discipline to the licensing process of advertising messages, foreseeing a typology as well as the display and printing of advertising media.

5. Decree Law on the National Library Structure

Approved by the Council of Ministers, the library has as objective to collect, process and conserve Timorese documentary heritage, as well as ensure its study and dissemination, and the classification and inventory of the national bibliographic heritage.

6. Decree Law on the legal regime of Legal Deposit of publications in Timor-Leste

The bibliographic, audio, visual, audio-visual and digital Timorese heritage constitutes an important historical and cultural wealth and as such should be preserved for the benefit of present and future generations. This diploma regulates the legal deposit of publications, in the National Library of Timor-Leste, aiming to ensure the registration and the safeguarding of the national intellectual production, by any means intended for public dissemination or distribution, both free and remunerated.

The Council of Ministers also reviewed:

1. "Rural roads" master plans

The Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Communications has presented a plan of road construction in rural areas, for the period of 2016 to 2020. Inserted in the Strategic Development Plan, the improvement of access facilitates people’s movements, increases the creation of jobs and facilitates private investment in the interior regions of the country

 2. Decree Law on the Economic Inspection and Food Security Authority

The Programme of the Sixth Constitutional Government considers the revision of the legal standards on product safety necessary to increase consumer confidence. The creation of this new entity gathers and coordinates the services related with the supervision, evaluation and communication of detected food risks, as well as with the promotion of the exercise of discipline in all economic activities of all sectors.

Republished by East Timor Law and Justice Bulletin ETLJB