10 Oct 2005

Mathias Taro becomes new Solomons fisheries minister

12:01 pm on 10 October 2005

The new Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister in Solomon Islands is Mathias Taro.

He replaces Paul Maenu'u, who eventually resigned after the controversy over his vote at a meeting of the International Whaling Commission because it was contrary to the stated government position.

Mr Taro was a former education minister who had been sacked in 2003 for questioning the leadership of the prime minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza.

Our correspondent says the two have since reconciled and Mr Taro never withdrew his support of the government.

He is currently chairman of the government's Investment Corporation of Solomon Islands but is expected to resign that position in light of his ministerial appointment.