MEDIA RELEASE: WEDNESDAY 29TH November 2017

The advisory group advocating for an Erebus National Memorial welcomes the announcement of Prime Minister Rt Hon. Jacinda Ardern that the Government will progress planning for a national memorial to be ready for the 40th anniversary of the accident in November 2019. Spokesperson Rev Dr Richard Waugh says, “The announcement on the 38th anniversary of the accident is opportune and comes after nearly two years of advocacy work. There is no time to lose advancing the memorial project for the 40th anniversary in 2019.”

Erebus families representative David Allan said, “This is absolutely wonderful news for all the families, relatives and all those affected by the tragedy. It has been a long time coming. On behalf of all the families, I wish to thank the Prime Minister most sincerely for her empathy and prompt decision. Personally, the anniversaries are inevitably emotional days and it is comforting to now know that a fitting memorial for everyone is imminent at last.”

Patron of the Erebus National Memorial project, Lady June Hillary added yesterday, “I am very impressed by this advance. Let’s hope it will happen for 2019.”

For more information see: www.erebusnationalmemorial.nz   Erebus family members are urged to register on this website.

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