Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

30 September 2009 Media Statement
New Zealand Samoan community reeling from tsunami disaster

The thoughts of New Zealand’s wider Pacific community are with the Samoan people who have lost their lives or had property destroyed at the hands of the tsunami, says Maungakiekie MP, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga.

The tsunami struck the Pacific island, following an 8.3 quake centred 200 kilometres from Samoa's capital Apia.

“This is a terrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with the people from both Samoa and America Samoa who have lost loved ones, their homes or their livelihoods,’ Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says.

“This disaster has rocked the Pacific community in New Zealand, and there are many who are worried about family and friends in Samoa.
“As a Samoan-born New Zealander, I have a close connection with Samoa and know people who have been affected.

“I will be working with the New Zealand Government and the Samoan community here, and overseas, to assist in any way I can,” Peseta Sam says.

The Air Force has confirmed it is sending a P-3 Orion to the areas affected by the quake and tsunami. It is to conduct a reconnaissance mission surveying Samoa as well as the northern area of the Tongan island group.

“I welcome the support from the New Zealand Government and all Kiwis to help victims. “We have a strong relationship with Samoa. Our recent visit with the Prime Minister strengthened our ties, and we will stand beside Samoa in the clean up.

“I will be doing everything I can to go and help out in the clean up in Samoa, and will be talking to the appropriate ministers to see if I can assist.”

People concerned about family members in Samoa should try to make contact with them in the first instance. Those with ongoing concerns can call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 04 439 8000, and provide as many contact details as possible.

Anyone worried about the safety of non-New Zealand relatives in Samoa should contact the Samoan High Commission on 04 472 0953.

ENDS

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