Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said the $10 million compensation fund from New Zealand must be distributed properly because an incorrect process could affect future settlements.
He said advice from government officials is for Safata to receive the money first while discussions on Siumu's claims are still ongoing.
Speaking in Parliament, he said reports alleging government interference in the distribution process were false. He said heads of government ministries had already explained the reasons for the delay and appealed for patience, particularly from residents of Safata and Siumu.
"This money is not money that we should distribute carelessly," Laaulialemalietoa said. "The money that comes from New Zealand must be distributed properly."
The prime minister said the $10 million payment was only the beginning of New Zealand's compensation for Samoa and that discussions regarding compensation related to the ship were only just beginning.
