Simon Power
Rangitikei MP

23 February 2004

Local MP welcomes initial cash injection

Rangitikei MP Simon Power says it's a great relief that the Government has finally got the message on the level of destruction caused by last week's storms in the lower North Island.

The Insurance Council and Local Government New Zealand have estimated the damage could top $100 million, making it the worst natural disaster since the 1931 Napier earthquake.

Mr Power says he is pleased with the Government's cash injection to the mayoral relief funds of $100,000 each to the Rangitikei and Manawatu and the further $450,000 advanced funds for emergency relief.

"But I look forward to further assistance from the Government as the clean-up continues in the medium to long term.

"The advance gives local councils a much needed short term boost to deal with flood devastation.

"The efforts of civil and military defence force services and volunteers to communities hit by the storms has been exceptional.

"Without their hard work the effect on those hit hardest would have been worse.

"I will be working very hard to make sure the destruction in Rangitikei and Manawatu remains a priority for the Government," says Mr Power

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