3 May 2019

Unfinished Vanuatu wharf upsets Opposition

8:15 am on 3 May 2019

The Vanuatu opposition leader, Ishmael Kalsakau, has called on New Zealand to explain why a wharf project in Port Vila is still incomplete.

Port Vila inter-island wharf

Port Vila inter-island wharf Photo: RNZ Pacific / Heather Maraki

Mr Kalsakau has contacted the New Zealand High Commission for an explanation on what's happening with the inter-island shipping wharf project and its funding.

RNZ Pacific's correspondent reported the Vanuatu Project Management Unit had said the project was stopped last year over design concerns.

Mr Kalsakau said he was appalled by the dire condition of a temporary wharf.

When ships are operating, the area is congested and hazardous for crews, passengers and adjacent residents, he said.