A shortage of workers has caused frequent delays for the building of 14 tsunami relief houses at Ta’anga in ‘Eua, at the resettlement area for some of the tsunami-affected families from Mango, Ha’apai.

The project supervisor, Semisi Fifita, in ‘Eua said that the delay is not due to funding or material shortages, but rather a lack of available workers, which has slowed progress.

He said that many local laborers have traveled overseas to participate in seasonal work programs. This shortage has impacted the overall progress, though efforts are being made to accelerate the work.

Initially, the houses were set to be completed by May 2024 however, a revised timeline has now been set for November.

This initiative is part of a broader effort, in collaboration with the Paletu’a Project, led by the Palace Office and the Ministry of Infrastructure, aimed at providing safe and resilient housing for those affected by natural disasters.

Of the 14 houses under construction, 11 are nearing completion, while one is still in the foundation stage and two have yet to begin construction.