The Prime Minister this morning visited Yaro Village on Kia Island to meet the villagers and hear of their needs.

Village headman Kemueli Naisaramaki says 31 homes were severely affected by Tropical Cyclone Yasa and the families are now living in tents and tarpaulins provided by the government and AusAid.

Naisaramaki told the Prime Minister their main source of livelihood is fishing but all their fishing gear and equipment were destroyed by the cyclone.

He also briefed Bainimarama on the status of damage and repairs to the nursing station and the quarters occupied by the island nurse.

Both were partially damaged.

The village headman also informed the Prime Minister that they need an evacuation center, as the one they used during TC Yasa was flattened by the strong winds.

The borehole that supplies water to their homes was also damaged.

Two Mineral Resources Department personnel are currently carrying out repair works so supply can be restored.

Naisaramaki also told the Prime Minister of their intention to relocate the village to higher grounds.

They are seeking the government’s assistance in this regard.

The Prime Minister has assured them, their concerns have been noted and authorities in the Northern Division will look into it.