October 1, 2009

SFWU sends condolences to Samoan and Tongan people

The Service and Food Workers Union has expressed their condolences to all those who have lost friends, family and loved ones in the recent tsunami in Samoa and Tonga.

The SFWU represents over 22,000 members in New Zealand, 23% of whom are Pacific Islanders.

SFWU National Secretary John Ryall said “Our thoughts are with our members and their extended families at this difficult time, and we express our deepest sympathies to those people who have lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy.”

“We are already hearing stories from our members about loved ones who have been lost, and some of our own staff members have been directly affected by this tragedy.”

“Many of our members are low paid workers trying to support their families back home. Tragedies like this will naturally have a huge impact on them, and will undoubtedly mean more sacrifices and hardship for them.”

“On behalf of our members we encourage other workers in New Zealand, our communities and the Government to offer all the support they can to the islands in this time of tragedy.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media