[pima.nius] Georgina te Heuheu - Minister expresses heartfelt sympathy

Hon Georgina te Heuheu Minister of Pacific Island Affairs
30 September 2009	Media Statement
Minister expresses heartfelt sympathy Pacific Island Affairs Minister Georgina te Heuheu tonight expressed her deep sadness at the unfolding tragedy in the Pacific, particularly in Samoa. The Minister said her thoughts were with those who know they have lost loved ones in the tsunami and those who were worried about family members or friends still unaccounted for. "Pacific people are known for their resilience but that will be sorely tested in the next few days. "As Minister of Pacific Island Affairs and a fellow New Zealander, my sincere heartfelt sympathy goes out to the families caught up in this tragedy here in New Zealand and in the Pacific," she said The full extent of the disaster is not yet clear but reports suggest there has been significant damage and many people have been injured or killed.   "New Zealand's diplomatic missions around the Pacific are in contact with local governments over what damage has been suffered, and how we might be able to assist.   "The Government is doing all it can to assist,' Mrs te Heuheu said. "Earlier today, an Air Force Orion was despatched to Samoa and will join the search along the coast of Upolu, Savaii and other islands and help assess damage to villages, roads and infrastructure. A C130 Hercules is on standby. "We are liaising closely with Samoan officials to determine their needs," Mrs te Heuheu said. New Zealanders 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. Anyone worried about the safety of non-New Zealand relatives in Samoa should contact the Samoan High Commission on 04 472 0953.   Media contact:       Rose  Hart      04 817 9878    021 279 9878

 

 

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