Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

6 October 2009
Media Statement

Maungakiekie MP returns from tsunami-stricken Samoa

Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga has returned from his visit to areas in Samoa that were worst hit by last week’s tsunami.

He flew to Samoa, with Prime Minister John Key and Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully, to view the destruction firsthand, and to offer heartfelt support to the Samoan people who are left reeling from the disaster.

“I was shocked by the sight of the damage. It was awful. The extent of the catastrophe was difficult to comprehend. In some places, there isn’t much left, with entire homes and villages swept out to sea,’ says Peseta Sam.

“In the wake of the tsunami, the damage is severe and it will be a long time before the local community recovers. Some areas will probably never return to the way they were.

“While it was heartbreaking to see the damage firsthand, it’s important that we saw for ourselves the extent of the disaster so we could ensure our aid relief reaches those most in need.”

The Government has already allocated $2 million to help Samoa and Tonga recover from the disaster. There are 160 government personnel in Samoa helping out with the clean up – including Defence Force personnel, police, health, NZAID and other agencies.

“The New Zealand Government remains committed to standing beside Samoa through this tragedy – not just with short-term disaster relief but also long-term reconstruction,” Peseta Sam says.

“Our visit was a sign of friendship and solidarity. It was a sign of the strong relationship between New Zealand and Samoa.

“My thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who have lost loved ones in Samoa.

ENDS

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