United Nations conveys deepest condolences

THE United Nations in Papua New Guinea is greatly saddened by the loss of life 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.”
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 contribution of US$21,500 (K53,821) to the Salvation Army to supply non-food items to survivors.
“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 II.
The disaster is one of the worst on record in the Western Pacific.
The last major tragic marine accident was three years ago in Tonga when the Princess Ashika sank and claimed 74 lives.