Governor Onaga states that a “pillar of the Okinawan Government” will be stopping new base construction, resolves to “do everything we can,” while admitting reducing the base burden, “still far away”
Governor Takeshi Onaga giving his year-opening address to prefectural government employees on the morning of January 4 at the Okinawa Prefectural Office
January 4, 2018 Ryukyu Shimpo Digital Edition
Okinawa Governor Takeshi Onaga made his New Year’s resolution with regards to the new base construction issue in Henoko while giving his year-opening address to prefectural government employees on the morning of January 4, stating, “We can absolutely not forgive the new base construction done without the consent of the Okinawan people.
The Okinawan government will do everything we can to work towards a solution.
” Onaga also reiterated that, “Hereafter we will continue to make the prevention of new base construction at Henoko a pillar of the Okinawan government, based on the spirit of protest.”
Additionally, he offered a resolution to, “do everything in his power to realize a treaty that closes MCAS Futenma and withdraws the Osprey helicopters from the islands.”
Onaga harshly condemned that, “the easing of the excessive burden of U.S. military bases on Okinawa is still far away,” referencing the number of incidents from the previous year including a part falling on an elementary school from a military helicopter and a fatal drunk driving accident involving a U.S. Marine.
On the economic front, Onaga noted the positive economic trends for Okinawa, including the expansion of demand in the tourism industry coming it at over 9,000,000 visitors in the previous year, as well as the job-to-applicants ratio reaching its highest level ever after a strong recovery.
He also expressed his hopes into strengthening Okinawa’s logistical capacity with the MICE multi-purpose convention center as well as a harbor for large-scale cruise ships.
With regards to social welfare, the governor resolved to, “Eliminate the school waiting lists as part of the effort to create a society where everyone can live and prosper without worry.”
He also raised examples of other policies such as policies to fight childhood poverty, care for the elderly, as well as healthcare policies including the construction of a new hospital.
At the start of the address, Governor Onaga stated, “At the outset of my 4th New Year as Governor, I am starting with a fresh heart meant to drive a government that will meet the expectations of the Okinawan people this year.”
Furthermore, he reflected on the previous year, commenting, “We made effective progress in all fields including the economy, education, welfare, and healthcare.”
The Governor also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming National Skills Competition and the Abilympics, and what it can do for promoting employment.
He also mentioned a desire to work towards getting the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, Iriomote Island, and Amami as World Heritage sites.
(English translation by T&CT and Sam Grieb)
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