Dear Editor, I wish to correct a statement made by the CEO of Cook Islands Airport Authority regarding comments I made over lighting issues for Aitutaki’s Airport. (Cook Islands News, Saturday, January 11, 2025).

I did not state that Air Rarotonga was against the proposal to install lights. I said “deferred supporting this proposal”. What was not included in the article to Cook Islands News was that dialogue had already commenced in early 2024 with Air Rarotonga and Aitutaki Airport Authority who were both supportive of the installation to install streetlights in principle however, the decision and delays were from “higher up”.

So please, don’t insinuate I was incorrect. Get your facts right. Incidentally, I provided the three lights that are installed (two of which I did myself) with the support of both Air Rarotonga and Aitutaki Airport Authority and will continue to do so in the interests of safety as these accidents are happening in my constituency because of officials “dragging the chain”.

Toanui Isamaela

MP for Amuri-Ureia

Aitutaki