A Member of Parliament has asked the Government to consider legalising car racing so it can become a sport in Samoa.

MP Laaulialemalietoa Leuaatea Schmidt, speaking during a debate in Parliament on Tuesday on amendments to the 1960 Road Traffic Ordinance, said he acknowledged that there are concerns about street racing but there is a positive side to it. 

“While there are concerns over the matter but there is also the positive side to it, car racing is an international sport and the Government should consider legalising it, at the same time set strict restrictions," he said. 

Laaulialemalietoa said car racing and car shows are quite popular amongst the public. 

“This is like any other sport and just like the fishing game,” he added.

But Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr Sailele Malielegaoi said those interested in this sport can get it registered as a formal sport body and fund it themselves. But they should not use Government-funded roads to run their sport. 

“The Government does not have to step in to do that for them. The proposed bill does not prohibit them for doing that. If anything, they come from wealthy families and they can afford to lease the properties, and invest in that sport.

“But don’t race on the Government roads. They are more than welcome to conduct their own car shows and similar to fishing games. They have registered their sport body and they have also leased their own office to conduct their meetings, and where they presume to have their tournaments. 

“That is the same situation here. The Government did not assist the fishermen – they did that on their own. Again those interested in car racing should consider establishing their own sport body, and lease a certain property to conduct their races, just don’t do it on the main road," the PM added.