SPEAKER and Members of the Legislative Assembly warmly welcomed the ‘Ikale Tahi team at a luncheon program today.
In welcoming the rugby players, coach, and TRUB members, Lord Lasike said MPs decided to host the luncheon to show their full support of the team.
He added that despite the MPs differences in Parliament but they have set that aside to support the team in their upcoming endeavour.
“We are behind the TRUB, Coach and also the players…even though Nili Latu is only in the reserve but TRUB has opened a door for a national reconciliation,” said Lord Lasike
Meanwhile Tongatapu 1 MP ‘Akilisi Pohiva told the national rugby players “it was a pleasure having them over to meet them in person.”
He went on to apologise to the team, Coach and the TRUB for any inconveniences that Parliament may have caused due to the politicising of rugby. However he also pledges full on support from the members of Parliament.
He added the opening game between the ‘Ikale Tahi and the All Blacks is a historical event for Tonga is a small nation with fewer population comparing to New Zealand but with our Tongan pride it could make a difference.
Meanwhile the Honourable Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Lord Vaea hopes the players will become good ambassadors and wishes them the very best of luck.
The new Chairman of TRUB, Reverend Tevita Latailakepa told law makers and staff of Parliament that the team and coaches will do their utmost best to represent Tonga and God will do the rest.
“This is because they firmly believe that the people and the nation have faith and put their trust on them,” explained the Reverend Latailakepa.