Further delays to recovery process

4 weeks after Cyclone Pat struck Aitutaki, many residents are still uncertain as to progress on the recovery stages and what the future holds for them. Although the recovery plan is being co-ordinated through the island administration, there are fears of nepotism and favouritism coming to the fore if this process is not managed properly.
To date, many residents do not know which of the 4 categories they fall under as they have not been officially advised. One resident claims there are lots and lots of meetings but no one is communicating with us. Some are still emotionally traumatized by the aftermath of Cyclone Pat. Because of their feelings of helplessness, this has been construed or misinterpreted as people sitting back waiting for things to be done for them. That is simply not true because we are waiting for direction and that has not been exactly forthcoming.
It is also understood a letter was circulated to all suppliers on Aitutaki via MFEM office dated 15 February 2010 informing them that no government accounts shall be opened with these particular businesses unless authority has been given by the Financial Secretary in relation to items required for Cyclone Pat.
This has raised concerns for several suppliers who responded to the call to provide emergency supplies in the absence of initial government support and they are worried, they may not get re-imbursed. One supplier is also quoted as saying that the current financial administration system in Aitutaki is inadequate and incapable of handling such transactions. There is simply no system in place so MFEM may need to provide that service either from Rarotonga or appoint someone to come over to manage the process.
In the meantime, nothing seems to be happening. While residents continue to wait with hope in their eyes, each day that nothing happens is a day lost in despair. While we are grateful that authorities are doing their bit, there is a feeling of despondency creeping through because of delays, promises being made and not being kept. Aitutaki is a small place and everyone knows everyone so rumours are likely to flow. The sooner government gets the recovery program underway, the better it will make our people feel especially for those who have totally lost their homes. More delays are not good for the island and people’s morale and confidence will drop.
Several residents have also asked to acknowledge the work of their local MP Teina Bishop who has done so much for them during the aftermath of the cyclone. Not only did he provide us with shelter, food and transport, he went out of his way to ensure that our families were safe. He didn’t wait to have invoices ready to claim his money back from the timber and other resources he owned. Instead, he just got in there and did what he could without any hesitation. We feel he and his wife Annie and their businesses should be acknowledged because of their humble and absolutely invaluable contribution in helping our people during our time of need.

Headlines : Times 290 02 March 2009
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