NZ Parliament: Luamanuvao, Lotu-iiga, Su’a Sio Pays Tribute to Pacific Tsunami Victims

Luamanuvao’s speech is available here.

Peseta Sam Lotu-iiga spoke:

• The scene of my most fond childhood memories destroyed by the power of the sea
• We saw firsthand the resolve of the Samoan people
• Somehow they were looking forward to a brighter future
• Like my colleague, and cousin, Luamanuvao said, they spoke a lot about their faith.
• Adversity has brought unity
• Tragedy has shown the great love that the people of New Zealand has for its Pacific neighbours.

Su’a William Sio spoke

• Chiefly tribute to the people and leaders of Samoa, Tonga and Tutuila (American Samoa)
• Chiefly lament to the dead
• Condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones
• Tribute to Peter Letiu and reciting his act of bravery in raising the tsunami alarm to low lying villages and here
• Thank you to all donors and helpers – businesses, organisations, schools, individuals and families – who have donated and helped with aid and assistance to those devastated.