P&O donates vaccines to Vanuatu
P&O Cruises has donated surplus vaccines to public health authorities in the Pacific island national of Vanuatu. The handover of 500 units of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine took place during one of Pacific Jewel’s calls at Port Vila, and forms part of the company’s CSR programme, which encompasses sustainable environmental practices, and providing local business opportunities as well as basic infrastructure for destination communities.
“The recent vaccine donation in Vanuatu highlights the strong relationship P&O Cruises Australia has established with communities over many years of cruising to the Pacific Islands,” said Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises.
“Cruise ship visits to the Pacific Islands currently deliver around AU$35 million (US$37 million) in economic benefit annually with the combined direct spending of P&O Cruises and its passengers,” Ms Sherry said.
“This economic contribution is likely to increase to AU$50 million annually when the ‘multiplier effect’ for tour operators and other shoreside activities are taken into account. Within 10 years, the direct economic contribution and ‘multiplier effect’ are likely to be around AU$100 million and AU$150 million annually.”
P&O Cruises Australia also works with Pacific Island governments and local communities to ensure the region benefits from cruise ship visits. More local initiatives include the upgrade of landing jetties, the building of amenity blocks and sewage projects.
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