Unison Sends Crew to Assist Fiji in Repair Efforts

Unison has sent a team of linesmen to Fiji to assist in repair efforts following damage to the electricity distribution network caused by Tropical Cyclone Winston.

Unison Group Chief Executive, Ken Sutherland, said when the call came from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the Company were eager to support the Government’s response.

“We have a number of Fijian staff in our team, some of whom have had families affected by the Cyclone. That alone was cause to assist, but we also have strong capability in our team and know we can make a difference by helping to repair the damaged electricity infrastructure.

“Whilst there our crew will work with Top Energy staff under the direction of the Fiji Electricity Authority, and undertake tasks like disconnecting fallen lines from poles,  clearing debris for the safe re-construction of power lines,  re-erecting fallen power poles, re-stringing power lines and re-installing fallen transformers and other overhead distribution equipment.”

The Unison team left for Fiji this morning and will be deployed to the area of Viti Levu. They will work on rotation for 21 days. If further assistance is required following this, Unison may send another team to continue repair work.

This is not the first time Unison has responded to calls for assistance from networks affected by natural disasters. It is however the Company’s first foreign response.