It was a relief for the villagers of Cikobia this morning after a Navy vessel arrived on the island bringing with them relief supplies.

Vuninuku villager, Noa Cagituivei said the residents in the four villages are very happy and are thankful for the quick response from the Government, as it has come at a time when there is very little food supply left, and all the root crops have been badly damaged after Hurricane Tomas.

Cagituivei added the water supply on the island is in a very bad state, and is still dirty and unhealthy to consume, however they are thankful that the supplies also include water, and health officials are also there to help the villagers.

At the moment Cagituivei confirmed that the students on the island still cannot go to school as the classrooms need some immediate repair work, however the priority right now is food and safe drinking water, to avoid water borne diseases.

Meanwhile, Nalele villager, Waisale Vai confirmed they have received basic food items like rice, tinned fish, Fiji Water and tarpaulins for shelter.

Vai adds that the Military Engineers are also carrying out maintenance work on the damaged houses and kitchens in Nalele, something they will carry out in other villages.

Commissioner Northern, Colonel Inia Seruiratu confirmed yesterday that the rations that are to be given to the villagers in Cikobia should last them for a month.