TO commemorate the Cook Islands 50th Anniversary of self-government, the Australian Government is pleased to donate a disability-inclusive mini-van for people with disabilities on the Island of Mangaia.
The mini-van is currently being sourced and fitted out but both governments have taken the opportunity for Deputy Prime Minister of Australia Warren Truss to announce and present the mini-van symbolically during a ceremony at Rarotonga’s Mangaia Hostel to the Deputy Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Heather Teariki.
“Under our Development for All 2015-2020: Strategy for strengthening disability-inclusive development in the aid program, Australia is proud to provide support for people with disabilities in developing countries,” Mr Truss said.
“Assisting people in the Cook Islands to find pathways out of poverty and to realising their full potential is a fitting way for us to recognise the Cook Islands’ half-century of self-government.
“Through this gift, Australia welcomes the opportunity to assist people with disabilities of on the outer Island of Mangaia and, in a practical way, help them to have better access to community services.”
In accepting the mini-van, Deputy Prime Minister of the Cook Islands Heather Teariki said: “The Government and people of the Cook Islands extend our gratitude to the Government of Australia for this prestigious gift.”
The ceremony took place in the presence of the Mangaia Te Maeva Nui team.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss and Cook Islands Deputy Prime Minister Teariki Heather during the hand over ceremony.
Media Contacts
For Mr Truss: Brett Heffernan 0467 650 020
For: Ms Teariki Bredina Drollet 29370