United Nations supports survivors of mv Rabaul Queen disaster

The United Nations (UN) in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is greatly saddened by the loss of life in the recent sinking of the mv Rabaul Queen, and commends the search and rescue efforts of the authorities.

 The UN resident coordinator, David McLachlan-Karr, conveys his deepest condolences on behalf of the UN in PNG to the families and loved ones of those lost at sea.

 “The thoughts and prayers of all UN staff are with those Papua New Guineans affected by the disaster,” he said.

 “Those who have lost loved ones, and the survivors, will have many dark and trying days ahead, but we want you to know you are not alone.”

 Condolence messages were also sent from UN Headquarters in New York and other offices around the region.

 To assist the government of PNG in this relief operation, the UN has made a modest contribution of USD $21,500 to the Salvation Army to assist with the supply of non-food items to survivors.

 The UN, as a humanitarian organisation devoted to the development of the world’s peoples, recognises the important work carried out by non-governmental partners such as the Salvation Army during these times of crisis, and believes it is best to support those already working on the ground.  

 The contribution is made possible through the Emergency Cash Grant scheme from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in PNG.