PAUL Karalus the former Minister of Transport who resigned on July 11, six days after the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika on August 5 will give evidence on December 14 at the Royal Commission of Inquiry, Nuku'alofa.
Paul appeared for the first time on Friday morning, 30 October to take oath and submit documents relating to the sinking of Princess Ashika.
Lord Dalgety, the company secretary for the Shipping Corporation of Polynesia Ltd, also appeared on Friday morning and submitted documents. He was stood down to reappear on December 11.
Lord Dalgety and Paul Karalus were among the first group of 11 witnesses who were called to take oath and submit documents related to the MV Princess Ashika.
Other witnesses were Lou Pale Senior, a Marine Officer for the Ministry of Transport; 'Onesi Tu'ifua, a Senior Marine Engineer for the Ministry of Transport; Lisiate Latu, a Senior Marine Surveyor for the Ministry of Transport; Pohiva Tu'ionetoa, the Auditor General; Rev Tevita Haukinima, a Shipping Corporation Director; Kalesita Taumopeau, the Secretary for the Ministry of Transport; Tevita Falevai, a police officer; 'Aminiasi Kefu, Solicitor General, and Sateki Tupou.
It is understood that more witnesses have been served summons to appear as witnesses during the inquiry that will run until December 18 this year before adjourned to continue in January 2010.
