Licensee anticipates delay in Cook Islands seabed exploration research
Rarotonga, COOK ISLANDS — Delays in the seabed minerals exploration and research are expected due to opposition and the efficiency of the regulatory system, says one of the three deep sea


![BETTING ON A SURE THING? The new American Samoa Legislature (Fono) building in downtown Fagatogo. The main building is expected to be finished by November 30th, according to the contract agreement between ASG and the contractor Paramount Builders, Inc. New offices for lawmakers will be completed at a later date. The Fono has gone into recess — saving five days of its 4th Regular Session of the 38th Legislature — in order that members of both chambers will experience the proceedings of the final five days of the session inside the new Fono building when they return, according to the Senate President. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] New fono bldg in progress](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/fono_bldg_10_2024_img_9781.jpg?itok=cpZ14F-6)

![ASG Treasurer Malemo Tausaga and TBAS Acting President and CEO Owen Peery during the Senate Budget & Appropriations Committee hearing in January this year about the illegally transferred $4.5 million of LBJ federal funds. The Senate has authorized the Senate SSIC to investigate the fraudulent bank transfer of LBJ hospital’s $4.5 Mil and implement safeguards against future scams. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] Malemo and Owen Peery](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/treasurer_malemo.jpg?itok=8KYi034W)



![The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry crew, whose efforts included enhancing maritime domain awareness, combatting illegal fishing activities across Oceania, and strengthening relationships with partners in the region. [photo: USCG] The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry crew](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/uscg_crew.jpeg?itok=i1xr_Q8i)
![Amata during a listening session with American Samoa Veterans in Honolulu on Sunday, Sept.29, 2024. [courtesy photo] Amata with veterans](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/amata_with_veterans_.jpg?itok=KCiPj-c8)
![Asked to critique the King’s performance, Freddy Tuilagi, replied: “Good – he’s got the moves.” [photo: Adrian Dennis/PA] KING CHARLES AND OTHERS](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/king_shows_his_moves.jpg?itok=c-vMoGZ2)