The Government has defended the composition of its four-member delegation travelling to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games in Scotland, saying it is consistent with long-standing travel policies.
The response follows a Samoa Observer report that all four members were expected to travel business class and stay at the Hilton Glasgow, although only two representatives are permitted to attend the Commonwealth Sport Ministers Meeting.
In a statement issued by the Government Press Secretariat, Minister of Sports and Recreation Seuamuli Fasi Toma and Associate Minister Fiu Ponifasio Vasa were confirmed as attending the meeting in Scotland.
The statement said they would be accompanied by Ministry of Sports and Recreation Chief Executive Officer Luatua Semiperive Epati and Seuamuli’s son, Mareko Fasi Toma.
The Government said official international delegations led by a minister or associate minister have, for more than 30 years, been accompanied by the relevant ministry’s chief executive officer or another member of its executive management.
