5 Mar 2010

Tonga Ashika victims get financial help from a relief fund

5:23 pm on 5 March 2010

Money from the Princess Ashika Relief Fund is this afternoon being handed out to the survivors and families of victims of the Tonga ferry disaster in the capital, Nuku'alofa.

There is about 600,000 US dollars in the Fund and families who lost members are receiving nearly 6,000 US dollars and survivors just over one thousand dollars.

The money is being handed out by the Chair of the trust administering the Fund, the Rev 'Ahio, who is also the President of the Free Weslyan Church in Tonga.

The money was donated by people and businesses in Tonga and overseas.

The King's sister, Princess Pilolevu, and the Prime Minister, Dr Feleti Sevele, were among the dignitaries present for the event.

The distribution of the money is at the same convention centre that is hosting the Commission into the sinking of the vessel.

Next Friday counsel are set to begin their final submissions into the inquiry.