Main Findings
Operation Framework
1.
In the past, International response has been coordinated and regulated on an ad hoc basis
2.
The general framework of DRM does not provide adequate provisions for the facilitation
and regulation of International Assistance
3. There are limited numbers of existing legal instruments or facilities not only for international
response in general but also to assist expedite international response
4.
There is very little in the way of laws and procedures to regulate and screen potential
international humanitarian organizations before and after response to disaster
5. Lessons learnt from recent disaster response operations shows the need to strengthen legal
preparedness for the facilitation and regulation of international disaster response
6.
.
Indications
from stakeholders are that, given the size and capacity of the Cook Islands,
amendments to the existing relevant laws, policies and procedures is the most appropriate
action for the Cook Islands
List of laws to be amended
•National DRM Act 2009
•Cook Islands DRM Arrangement 2009
•Civil Aviation Act 2002
•Development Investment Act 1995-96
•The Maritime Transport Act 2008
•Currency Declaration Bill
•Ports Authority by-laws
•Financial Transactions Reporting Act 2004
•Transport Act 1966
•Land (Facilitation of Dealings)Act 1970
•Customs Regulations
•VAT Act 1997
•Telecommunication Act 1989
•Biosecurity Act 2008
•Entry, Residence and Departure Act (new Bill)
Standard Operation Procedure
DRM Act 2007
“(6) The Prime Minister may, after consultation with Cabinet
and the Council, if he reasonably believes compliance with an
Act or subordinate instrument prescribing the functions,
powers, duties or responsibility of a Government Agency
would inhibit the response or recovery declare the operation
of the whole or any part of that Act or subordinate instrument
suspended until revived by the Prime Minister.”