Govt. urged to review cost of living and wages

By Ilia L. Likou 27 January 2017, 12:00AM

A 39-year-old man from Sinamoga and Tulaele has added his voice to a growing chorus of Samoans calling on the government to increase domestic wages.

Sio Isitolo, a 39-year-old father of three, reminds us that the cost of living continues to skyrocket and yet wages, especially the minimum wage, remains inadequate.

 “The struggle we go through to make ends meet everyday is the real picture of Samoa of today,” he told the Village Voice.

“The pay I get every week is not enough to take care and provide for my family.

“I just want to voice this out to the government because they should know and understand how hard it is to stretch our pay from day to day.”

Sio said the cost of living is beyond reach for many people.

 “Looking on how much I get from my pay every week… it is just not enough for my family.”

“Especially because we have so many obligations. We have to take care of the church and village obligations, fa’alavelave every month, family activities and then the family’s every day needs.”

Sio said he is saddened by the fact the government leaders don’t seem to care.

“They’re too busy voicing out their opinions in Parliament but outside here...the real world that we’re living in now, nothing is happening.

“They sound like they’re really going to do something to help us out but they’re just empty vessels.”

Sio said a $100 is like 10 sene these days.

“This makes me wonder about what’s next for Samoa in the next ten years?

“As a father, I always think about that. What will our children do?”

He also believes there is poverty in Samoa.

“I must admit my family doesn’t have much and I know this is the reality of many families in Samoa.

“Now schools are back next week and that’s another expense we have to deal with. I know I’m not the only parent going through this. 

“We really need help.”

By Ilia L. Likou 27 January 2017, 12:00AM

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