Simon Power
Rangitikei MP
23 February 2004
Local MP welcomes initial cash injection
Rangitikei MP Simon Power says it's a great relief that the Government has finally got the message on the level of
destruction caused by last week's storms in the lower North Island.
The Insurance Council and Local Government New Zealand have estimated the damage could top $100 million, making it the
worst natural disaster since the 1931 Napier earthquake.
Mr Power says he is pleased with the Government's cash injection to the mayoral relief funds of $100,000 each to the
Rangitikei and Manawatu and the further $450,000 advanced funds for emergency relief.
"But I look forward to further assistance from the Government as the clean-up continues in the medium to long term.
"The advance gives local councils a much needed short term boost to deal with flood devastation.
"The efforts of civil and military defence force services and volunteers to communities hit by the storms has been
exceptional.
"Without their hard work the effect on those hit hardest would have been worse.
"I will be working very hard to make sure the destruction in Rangitikei and Manawatu remains a priority for the
Government," says Mr Power
Ends