Gizo Civil Society On Murdered NZ Diplomat

Gizo Civil Society Message Over Murdered NZ Diplomat

Gizo Civil Society has sent condolences to the family and co-workers of the late Bridget Nichols.

Bridget was a shining light in her role as New Zealand's Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands. Bridget was also a personal friend to many of the members of the Civil Society and community members of Gizo.

Bridget Nichols gave us three years of her life from1989 to 1991. As a volunteer legal adviser to the Western Province of Solomon Islands she instigated a number of much needed ordinances which continue to help protect our environment and people. During her volunteer time she made many personal friendships. However, it was hard to get Bridget to take a day off work, even on weekends.

On February 15 this year Bridget came back to the Solomon Islands as New Zealand's Deputy High Commissioner and five days later was meeting with Government officials and Civil Society in Gizo, leading a delegation which was looking at how best NZ could help with the lack of law and order throughout the Solomon Islands.

Civil Society requested New Zealand to offer seconded Police Officers to the Royal Solomon Island Police (RSIP). This is seen as a last ditch attempt to rebuild the professionalism required to regain public confidence and respect for the RSIP.

On Friday March 15th it became public that New Zealand is looking seriously at this proposal.

On March 17th Bridget Nichols was murdered within her residence compound. Gizo Civil Society urges Solomon Islands and New Zealand to bring to justice the people behind this cruel and senseless murder. And please, quickly help make the Solomon Police efficient and effective again so that the good works of people like Bridget Nichols can be remembered and carried through to constructive conclusions.

+++niuswire

© Scoop Media