28 May 2009

American Samoa's Congressman and other officials meet with cannery officials

10:32 am on 28 May 2009

The closure of Samoa Packing is the topic of discussions between Congressman Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin, Senate President Gaoteote Palaie and Vice Speaker Laolagi Fonoti Vaeao.

The congressman who arrived in the territory on Sunday also met separately with Chicken of the Sea official John DeBeer and Samoa Packing executive Alfonoso Pete Galeai.

The congressman said he wholeheartedly supports the stance of Fono leaders that now is not the time for finger pointing, but for everyone to work together to combat the economic losses befalling the territory due to the cannery's closure.

In his meetings with Mr DeBeer and Mr Galeai, the congressman received assurances that all benefits due employees will be honored.