A counsellor at Samoa's Polytech has spoken of the stresses facing seafarers working abroad following the departure of 22 men for jobs overseas.
In a letter to the Samoa Observer, Elena Peteru, says recent research shows that Pacific Island seafarers live a stressful and lonely life while abroad.
She said those working on ships often gained a bad name for trouble making and unacceptable behaviour.
But Ms Peteru said the sailors needed help and on going support.
