Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Samoan prime minister defends decision to switch driving to left side of the road

Posted at 22:59 on 25 September, 2007 UTC

The Samoa government is standing firm on its proposal for thecountry to switch to right hand drive vehicles in July next year.

The Prime Minister, Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, has dismissed criticism suggesting that the change would cause havoc on the roads when it takes effect.

He says it may take time for drivers to get used to the new system but says it is unlikely to lead to an increase in traffic accidents.

The Prime Minister says the public will have a chance to voice their opinions on the proposal when legislation is tabled in parliament and referred to the house bills committee.