Press Statement
19th January 2007

Otara Councillor Supports Rebuilding of Tonga

Otara’s Manukau City Councillor, Su’a William Sio is supporting the position of Manukau City Council staff involvement providing expert advice on Nukualofa’s structural needs as Tonga rebuilds its capital city.

“I’m in absolute support of this decision, and it is perfectly in alignment with Manukau City council policy to pursue strategic partnerships with other Pacific Island nations including Tonga,” says Councillor Sio.

“Besides, all costs associated with Manukau City providing this facilitation role will be borne by the Government of Tonga.”

“This is the same facilitation role that Manukau City played in the rebuilding of Niue some years ago in which we also sent council staff to provide expert advice on infrastructural needs of that country after it was devastated by a cyclone.”

Councillor Sio says he is not at all surprised by some councillors opposing this support for the rebuilding of Tonga.

“There are two or three Manukau City councillors who have traditionally opposed anything to do with Maori or Pacific peoples, so I am not at all surprised by their opposition.”

“I am surprised these councillors did not oppose this move when it was announced in early December last year.”

ENDS

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