UN resident rep conveys deepest condolences

THE United Nations in Papua New Guinea is greatly saddened by the loss of lives in the sinking of the mv Rabaul Queen and commends the search and rescue efforts.
UN resident coordinator David McLachlan-Karr conveyed his deepest condolences on behalf of the UN in PNG to the families and loved ones of those lost at sea.
“The thoughts and prayers of all UN staff are with those Papua New Guineans affected by the disaster,” he said.
“Those who have lost loved ones and the survivors will have many dark and trying days ahead but we want you to know you are not alone,” McLachlan-Karr said.
Condolence messages were sent from the UN headquarters in New York and other offices around the region.
To help the PNG government in this relief operation, the UN has made a modest contribution of US$21,500 (K53,821) to the Salvation Army to supply non-food items to survivors.
“The UN, as a humanitarian organisation devoted to the development of the world’s peoples, recognises the important work carried out by non-governmental partners such as the Salvation Army during these times of crisis and believes it is best to support those already working on the ground. 
“The contribution is made possible through the emergency cash grant scheme from the UN office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs in PNG,” he said.
Another world leader who conveyed her condolences to the relatives of those who perished in the disaster was Queen Elizabeth, Buckingham Palace announced.
The disaster is one of the worst on record in the Western Pacific, according to the National Maritime Safety Authority.