21 Feb 2006

Train locals to take over tourism sector, Samoa election candidate urges PM

10:20 am on 21 February 2006

The leader of the Samoa Progressive Party wants Samoans to be trained further in the tourism industry so that they can take charge of tourism development in the country.

Toesulusulu Siueva told reporters in Apia that he wants to meet the Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele later this month to discuss his plan.

He says Samoans should have control of their country's tourism industry, instead of relying on outside investors.

Under the Samoa Progressive Party's proposal, US$3.6 million would be distributed to each of Samoa's four districts to develop tourism ventures.

The amount would be doubled in the second year.

Toesulusulu says Samoa should not have to rely on outside companies to develop and manage hotels.

His view is to equip Samoans with the skills so that they can do the job themselves.