Senate confirms Matagi as Port director, House yet to vote

July 15, 2007 - The Senate believes that former House Speaker Matagi Ray Mailo McMoore is the right person to take over as Port Administration director and this was evident with a unanimous vote of 17-0 on July 10.

Matagi’s position will be official once the House of Representatives confirms his appointment. Matagi’s confirmation is expected to be one of the agendas on the House calendar when the Fono reconvenes in August.

The Port director position became open after PC Tuitele Fofo Tony resigned to occupy the Fofo County Senate seat left vacant with the passing of the late HC Rev. Sen. Faiivae Apelu Galea’i.

It was Tuitele who chaired Matagi’s hearing before the Senate Committee of the Whole prior to his confirmation.

Before his appointment as Port director, Matagi was hired to serve as an executive assistant to the Governor. In addition, he was also confirmed two months ago as a member of the Immigration Board.

Matagi was first elected to the lower chamber of the Fono in 1997, where he served as House Speaker from
2001 to 2006.

In his letter to the Fono announcing Matagi’s appointment, Governor Togiola Tulafono described Matagi as being “highly qualified for the post.”

He continued, “Through his experience, he has acquired an extensive knowledge and familiarity with duties of the highest caliber of government.”

Matagi served in the U.S Air Force and retired as a master sergeant in 1986.

If confirmed to lead the Department of Port Administration, Matagi will be in charge of multi million dollar projects including the management of six harbors and three airports in Tutuila and Manu’a.

Former House Speaker Matagi Ray Mailo McMoore has been appointed by the Governor to lead the Department of Port Administration. Matagi was unanimously confirmed by the Senate but the House is yet to vote.