The Polynesian government has formally terminated the appointment of Hinano Teanotoga, Director of the Pearl House, through a council of ministers decree. The public industrial and commercial establishment (EPIC) will officially dissolve on November 30, 2013, marking a major restructuring of the pearl sector and the elimination of its primary promotional and legal protection body.
Employment Impact
- 12 employees affected:
- 1 civil servant (to be reassigned)
- 11 private-contract workers (facing layoffs)
- Nuihau Laurey, Vice President of the government, confirmed the decision, citing “streamlining of public action” and the Pearl House’s “lack of demonstrated usefulness.”
Rationale Behind the Closure
- Many of the Pearl House’s functions were already being handled by the Marine Resources Directorate
- Limited engagement from pearl farmers and internal reorganizations prompted the shutdown
- The government will transfer remaining responsibilities to the Marine Resources Directorate
A Short-Lived Institution
Established in 2009, the Pearl House was tasked with:
✔ Promoting and protecting pearls and pearl products
✔ Managing sorting, classification, and valuation of pearl production
This closure signals a shift in institutional strategy, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing Tahiti’s pearl industry. The move underscores the government’s push for greater efficiency amid financial constraints and evolving sector demands.
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