12 Oct 2018

Free electrical inspections possible after fires in the Cooks

From , 4:04 pm on 12 October 2018

Free safety inspections may be rolled out for older homes on Rarotonga after a spate of house fires.

The Cook Islands' Minister of Police and Internal Affairs says he'll consider the option following claims by the MP for Titikaveka that old and rat-eaten wiring was likely to blame for the fires in her electorate. 

Old wiring was also found to be at fault in one of three commercial blazes in Rarotonga.
 
Titikaveka's Selina Napa says the government has a discretionary fund to utilise but the minister, Vaine va-ee-neh 'Mac' Mokoroa, says it's meant for providing toilets for older and disabled Cook Islanders.

And as he told Dominic Godfrey, it's not enough money for the current task.

Rarotonga house destroyed by fire

Rarotonga house destroyed by fire Photo: Puaikura Volunteer Fire Brigade