01/16/2004: 
Nauru
New Zealand supports continuation of Niueans on Niue
from ABC News Australia
The New Zealand government has reaffirmed it's commitment to maintaining a community on the cyclone battered Pacific island of Niue.
The New Zealand Foreign Minister, Phil Goff gave the undertaking, despite the extensive devastation on Niue by tropical cyclone Heta.
The New Zealand Herald quotes Mr Goff as saying the government will support whatever the Niue people want for their future.
However, he believes it's important that a viable community remain on the island.
The plight of Niue speaks volumes to the possibility of other islands sinking in the Pacific. It would be cool to go there before the island ceases to exist.
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[This is the print version of story http://www.abc.net.au/ra/newstories/RANewsStories_1023798.htm]NZ supports continuation of Niueans on Niue
The New Zealand government has reaffirmed it's commitment to maintaining a community on the cyclone battered Pacific island of Niue.
The New Zealand Foreign Minister, Phil Goff gave the undertaking, despite the extensive devastation on Niue by tropical cyclone Heta.
The New Zealand Herald quotes Mr Goff as saying the government will support whatever the Niue people want for their future.
However, he believes it's important that a viable community remain on the island.
A former chief executive of the Niue government, Terry Chapman says the island's future depends on decision taken by the New Zealand government in coming weeks.
The New Zealand Herald says Wellington has so far committed 300-thousand-dollars in emergency disaster aid.
Meanwhile, Australian defence personnel have delivered nearly 12-tonnes of emergency relief to Niue.
Twenty-one Australian Army and Air force personnel will stay in Niue for three weeks, offering medical support.
12/01/2004 07:49:26 | ABC Radio Australia News
