20 Jun 2015

Cook Islands opposition against flight ban

1:49 pm on 20 June 2015

The Cook Islands opposition says it supports the continuation of Sunday flights between Rarotonga and Aitutaki despite the result of a referendum.

Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki, Cook Islands Photo: Ewan Smith

In April, a majority voted for an end to the flights, with those wanting the ban saying Sunday is a sacred day when businesses shouldn't operate.

The Aitutaki MP and One Cook Islands leader Teina Bishop says the flights should continue for the economy of the island, but mainly for social reasons.

"My support was more for social so that when people have funeral services or there is a family bereavement and also someone who wants to go to the hospital in Rarotonga, then the air service is available seven days a week."

The government has still to say whether it will honour the result of the referendum.

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