The Senate has approved all nine nominees to the Samoan Language Commission.
Only six members appeared at a confirmation hearing on Tuesday: Faiivae Alex Iuli, Reverend Elder Fouvale Asiata, Reverend Peter Schuster, Asomaliu Tali, Fonofii Muaava, and Shute Tautu.
At the suggestion of Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, the Senate voted to confirm the six, as well as the other three members who were reported to be off-island: Bishop Kolio Tumanuvao Etuale, Aiono Okenaisa Fauolo, and Dr. Grant Muagututia.
Senator Muagututia Tauoa recommended that the Commission conduct seminars on the Samoan language for directors, noting that many who appear for hearings cannot speak Samoan and must resort to English.
