This is an historic occasion as it is the first time a director of the department has ever met in person the top Customs guy in the world.
The meeting was facilitated by Vanuatu’s Ambassador to the EU Mr. Roy Mickey. On behalf of the Vanuatu ambassador Mickey thanked Mr Kunio Mikuriya for the WCO’s continued support to DCIR, particularly customs division with respect to training, technical support and capacity building. Mr Mikuria as part of the discussions reaffirmed his offices commitment to Vanuatu as a member and confirmed specially tailored training for Vanuatu in September 2015.Vanuatu was accepted as a member to the WCO in 2009.
In other DCIR news the revenue collectors revenue collection to date currently stands at 6.3 billion. This equates to around 1 billion in collection every month. Despite cyclone Pam, this is a clear positive result of the government measures taken in the after math of Pam through VNPF, and in the private sector commercial banks in delaying loan repayments. Also within DCIR, changes in compliance approach in VAT, Customs Revenue and Post Clearance audit ensured revenue levels continued at the same level.
The Management team of DCIR met for three days last week commencing Wednesday, Thursday Friday for their management meeting, Business plan and 2016 Budget. Fruitful discussions were made on improving the management of the whole of DCIR. The corporate services noted the higher level of competency and confidence in the new young managers.
The Director Malas also wishes to publicly thank the Australian government and the people of Australia for donating a vehicle to replace the Value Added Vehicle damaged by cyclone Pam. In their previous meet Australia pledged continued support with the provision of work tools required in Border Control. DCIR has been receiving support and donations from Australian Customs in the past after a large drug haul on a yacht was made with the support of Australian Customs officers. This institutional strengthening is very much appreciated.
