RAROTONGA, Cook Islands (Cook Islands News, May 27) - Many non-governmental organizations are expected to benefit from new European Union funding in the next financial year.
A total of $1.6 million has been pledged by the EU towards the Outer Island Development Program.
The money is not listed as aid in the new budget, as it is destined for specific causes, according to Don Beer Jr., chairman of the budget committee.
"It is separated from the aid schedule for reasons of transparency," he explained. "The EU has to agree exactly what the money will be spent on before it is appropriated and it is all part of a dedicated program for the outer islands."
Some $700,000 will go to the Ministry Of Health for medical equipment in the outer islands.
A further $500,000 will go towards educational developments and $200,000 has been earmarked for human resources.
$67,800 will go to CIANGO, while other specific causes in the outer islands will receive a...