PM sheds tears

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill yesterday became very emotional and shed tears with his people when he visited the landslide area (left) near Hides, Southern Highlands province.Accompanying him to the disaster site, which so far has claimed the lives of about 60 people, were Transport and Works Minister Francis Awesa and Esso Highlands Ltd chief executive Peter Graham.Speaking to The National late last night, O’Neill said those who perished in the landslide did not have an opportunity to protect themselves."The disaster had occurred very early in the morning while the people were still asleep."There was no way they would have known what was coming."O’Neill said the National Executive Council would meet today to discuss relief measures including the relocation of relatives of those who perished in the disaster."I also extend my thank you and appreciation to the Australian government, Esso Highlands Ltd and the local and company relief workers who quickly arrived on site and assisted with rescue operations," O’Neill said.