Tokelau Presents Samoa Shipping Corporation With Ferry
10 year-old MV Tokelau transfer part of ongoing relations

By Kolotita Talatalaga

APIA, Samoa (Samoa Observer, Jan. 24, 2013) – The government of Tokelau presented MV Tokelau to the Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC) during a presentation on Monday as Cyclone Garry was threatening Samoa.

After more than ten years of serving the people of Tokelau, the MV Tokelau is no longer fit to ferry passengers. But Chief Executive Officer of SSC, Papali’i Willie Nansen said the vessel would have many uses.

"Even though the vessel cannot operate as a passenger carrier, we will look at other uses," said Papali’i. "We will see if there are any parts of the ferry we can use as spare parts, or if we will use it as a training vessel. The vessel is no longer in a state to ferry passengers."

General Manager of the Tokelau Office in Apia, Joe Suveinakama, said the handover of the ferry is an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Tokelau and Samoa.

"Today’s signing also acknowledges the long term relationship SSC has had with the Government of Tokelau," Mr. Suveinakama said.

"This gesture is an acknowledgement of SSC being part of the Tokelau Travelling Community Strategy and we continue to be grateful to Papali’i and his team for responding to Tokelau’s call whenever we need transportation for people between Samoa and Tokelau."

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