MP: Assist cyclone victims

SAMARAI Murua MP Isi Henry Leonard is appealing to businessmen in Misima Island’s Bwagaoia Station to help in the supply of relief to victims of the recent cyclone that ravaged the region.
“The islanders are in urgent need of water, food and other necessities,” he added.
Making his appeal at a meeting with local and foreign businessmen on the island, Leonard said Murua’s Budibudi island was reported to be the worst hit.
“The cyclone ravaged the coral seas. Although the cyclone did not sweep directly through Samarai Murua, its strong winds and impact could still be felt in the islands’ interior.
“Most of the islanders on Budibudi have been displaced with water sources contaminated, food gardens and homes destroyed,” he added.
Leonard, who is tourism, arts and culture minister, said businesses could help provide food and water rations and send their invoices to the district office for payments.
Red Cross supplied relief from Alotau to Misima island, including medical supplies from Alotau General Hospital.
Meanwhile, a team from the district and electoral offices with medical and police personnel from Bwagaoia station had travelled by boat to deliver food, water and medical supplies to victims affected by the cyclone.
Ongoing plans and fundraising programmes for the long-term sustenance of the relief efforts were currently being worked out by the member’s office.