6 Oct 2008

Niue's Premier expected to raise issues over aid in talks with NZ Prime Minister

6:32 am on 6 October 2008

The Niue Premier, Toke Talagi, is this week expected to speak to the New Zealand Prime Minister, Helen Clark, about what he has called the undemocratic approach taken by New Zealand aid officials.

His invitation to Wellington comes after he launched a scathing attack on New Zealand Government officials in his Budget speech last month.

He said much of the money given to Niue ends up going back to New Zealand to pay for high priced consultants.

Mr Talagi says he is particularly concerned that money set aside for tourism development over the past three years is yet to be allocated.

Miss Clark's office has said in a statement they will work to resolve the issues.