It’s not just citizens of Samoa who will be included in the group of special skills or technical workers being allowed into the territory.
According to testimony by the Chairman of the Coronavirus Task Force Iulogologo Joseph Pereira, before the Senate yesterday, foreigners with specialized skills who have resided in Samoa for many years will also be accepted.
Senator Nuanuaolefeagaiga Saoluaga Nua asked if this includes people from Australia and New Zealand who traveled recently to Samoa
Iulogologo explained that people from those countries are subject to a 14-day quarantine in Smaoa and if they travel here they are covid-19 tested and also subject to 14 days quarantine.
Senator Faamausili Mau Mau Jr., a member of the Immigration Board pointed out that under the law only the Immigration Board can issue approvals for persons allowed into the territory under special provision. That is if their expertise is not available in the territory.
Iulogologo responded that under the COVID-19 emergency declaration, the powers of the Immigration Board have been suspended. He said if a company or agency requires special skilled employees their request goes to the CTF and the AG will issue an OK Board to allow the person to travel from Samoa. The governor’s approval is also required. If the AG is not available then the governor issues the OK Board.
Governor Lolo Moliga stated at Sunday’s CTF meeting that flights to bring in special skilled and technical workers will begin August 1st and will continue up to August 17.
Reports received by KHJ News indicate that some of the travelers on the repatriation flights from Samoa have included owners and employees of local construction companies.
