29 Sep 2010

Launch of memorial for tsunami victims planned in American Samoa

12:05 pm on 29 September 2010

In American Samoa, ground will be broken tomorrow at the site of the memorial in Vatogi for those who died in last year's tsunami.

32 men, women and children died in the disaster in American Samoa.

The groundbreaking will take place after the government's memorial service at the Suiga Ula park at Utulei Beach.

The Public Works Director, Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei, says at Vaitogi a 60 square foot site has been cleared and a road has also been put in.

But he says they won't start building the monument until funds are available.

Taeaotui says the 9/29 memorial park will include a playground, tables and seats, bathrooms and a parking area.

Putting the memorial at Vaitogi has been criticised mainly by lawmakers who say Vatogi is out of the way.