Sunday Chronicle PNG blogspot

PNG government trust account controlled privately

2010-04-04T18:24:00.000+10:00

By ROBEFRT PALME

A PRIVATE individual has been a signatory to a Papua New Guinea Government trust account.

And millions of kina from that account were paid to private consultants including payments to the signatory's company.

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee(PAC) revealed that the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority Working Group Trust Account (KPPWGTA) is operated outside the Papua New Guinea Government Computerized Accounting System (PGAS).

The PAC report, tabled in Parliament last month, reads: "Effectively this trust money has been handed to private persons and is unaccountable.

"We believe the purpose of this was to avoid scrutiny."

According to the PAC, this person is not a delegated person to be a signatory for the account.
It also reads:"It is notable that millions of kina have flowed to private consultants -including payments to the signatory's company.

"The department Secretary has lost control of Trust management. No records were produced for audit of the KPPWGTA.

"They were apparently kept at a private apartment by the Project Manager."

Meanwhile, the Committee in its report also said Government Trust Accounts should not be managed by the Public Service or Government agencies at any level.

"No Trustees, signatory officer identified as failing to maintain Trust records and accounts or conduct themselves as Trustees, signatories or accountable officers in a proper and lawful manner, should ever again be permitted to assume any degree of responsibility for management of public monies in any capacity-but particularly as a trustee," the PAC said.

The Public Service is patently and demonstrably incapable of lawful managing Trust Accounts and officers of that service are clearly incapable of understanding or performing their duties as Trustees, the report said.

The PAC attributed some of the failures to the inability by the Department of Finance and Treasury to protect the State by properly monitoring and recording the expenditure of public monies through this Trust account and or by requiring and enforcing accountability from its own Department officers.

PNG Parliament to pay K2 million for legal services

2010-04-04T18:11:00.000+10:00

THE NATIONAL Parliament will fork out K2 million annually to pay two private law firms when the house itself is rotting away, it has been alleged.

This will see in-house lawyers doing nothing when it comes to providing legal directions and advice for Members of Parliament.

Shadow Minister for Fisheries and Member for Bulolo, Sam Basil revealed this when commenting on the recent amendments to the Ombudsman Commission bill.

"We are not stupid here, but are being misled or deliberately denied legal services by the Speaker of Parliament and if we have less knowledge of the legal implications of bills then we can be easily fooled by the bill sponsors."

Mr Basil said the two law firms that have been engaged on retainer arrangement costing tax payers money is unnecessary and they only work for the interest of the government.

"I personally think the current system works to the best interest of the ruling party (National Alliance) to easily pass bills on the ignorance of MPs by not properly understanding the bills put before them. I think they love it that way; maybe now is a wakeup call for us all to find the loop holes and stop this nonsense."

He says as a result most times Members of Parliament are misled or being deliberately denied legal services by the Speaker of parliament when it comes to passing of certain bills on the floor of Parliament.

He therefore renewed calls for Speaker Jeffery Nape to step down.

"Sadly, this is the case and I still stand on my earlier call for the speaker of the national parliament to be replaced soon with a fair and a sound minded candidate from the Government or the Opposition. It doesn't matter anymore which side produces the new speaker, but for the sake of this country's Parliament operations, a change must happen soon. This controversial bill problem can be seen as one of the many problems this house has."

"I think Hon. Moses Maladina should recall his attempt to push for the bill. The public has said their piece, the majority of the Opposition has admitted being misled and will not support it while some government MPs and political parties have indicated their intention to withdraw their support for the bill.

"The next thing we all do not want to happen is the public taking to the streets to protest and I can see it coming if the bill sponsor continues to push.

"I would also like to call on the current MPs in parliament who think they will lose out on their stock exchange trading to resign from parliament and become stock brokers because they will take up the voter's time trading on the New York and POM Stock Exchanges and forget their responsibilities as elected MPs.

"PNG is a struggling country, especially its rural population and needs full time MPs and not stock brokers. We may also ask where the millions they acquire to trade in stocks came from with due respect to those were already millionaires before entering parliament."

Former PNG Constitutional Review Committee Chairman says reforms missed intentions

2010-04-04T18:09:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

THE then Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, Ben Micah has admitted that the Provincial and Local Level Government reforms which he spearheaded in 1995 have totally missed the intentions of the reforms.

Mr Micah said the Provincial Government Reforms which he spearheaded 15 years ago was to improve the delivery of basic services to the masses. However, the new Organic Law on the Provincial and Local Level Government has undergone too many amendments and has made it become ineffective and thus failed to deliver its intentions.

Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Puka Temu said, the government is currently looking at ways to improve the system of government in the country. While the national government will remain in its current state, the national government is still looking at ways of how to improve the provincial and local level governments further with the same intents of effectively delivering basic services to the rural masses.

"We are looking at retaining all levels of government. But under the District Authority Bill which is yet to go before parliament, we are looking at how we can make the lower levels of government more effective," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

"What becomes of provincial governments is not clear yet. Whether they will be retained as lower legislator or changed to a provincial authority," Dr Temu said.

A Ben Micah Constitutional Reform Committee abolished the 1976 Provincial Government System and replaced it with an Organic Law on the Provincial and Local Level Government.

The old provincial government system is headed by a premier voted from among elected provincial government representatives who forms the provincial legislature. The new Organic Law on the Provincial and Local Level Governments, a governor of the Province is the Chairman of the Provincial Assembly. He heads a team of appointed representatives who forms the provincial legislature.

Royalty trust accounts in chaos

2010-04-04T18:05:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE PNG Department of Petroleum has breached the Oil and Gas Act by not paying the landowners their royalties monthly.

This was highlighted by the Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC)report that was tabled in Parliament last month.

And the PAC said in its report that Royalty Trust Accounts should be given to some agency credible to manage.

A PAC report titled, "The Public Accounts Committee Report on the Inquiry into the keeping of the Government Trust Accounts for the Financial Years 2000-2008", said the case has worsened with the
Department of Petroleum since 2005 where Royalty Trust accounts are in a chaotic state.

"This Department seems to have decided to act precisely as it wants with both public and trust monies and to keep no records of those dealings," the PAC said.

According to the PAC, the AG raised concern that the Department did not compile its bank reconciliation for the six Trust accounts under its control from 31st May 2007 until June 2008.

The PAC said the AG requested records of expenditure from Trust Accounts totaling K29, 426,980 but nothing was received.

Other findings by the AG are;

Payments were made on an irregular basis

Trust Accounts for Gobe and Kutubu recorded nil payments since 31st December 2007, and this is a breach of the Oil and Gas Act 1998 which stipulates that all royalties are to be paid monthly.

The Trust accounts contain K80 million which should be invested and no interest has been paid into these accounts during the period May 30 to April 30, 2008.

The AG could not ascertain whether total payments of K6,724,203 made from Trust Accounts in the period 31st December 2007 to 30 April 2008 were made to correct persons as no disbursement records were produced.

Other areas of concern were that the development expenditure from these Trust Accounts totaling more than K47 million in 2007 showed among others incorrect expenditure vote was used for payments totaling more than K20 million and project payment of over K100,000 had no Central Supply and tender Board compliance.

PNG Deputy Police Commissioner thanks God for recall

2010-04-04T18:01:00.000+10:00

RECALLED Deputy Police Commissioner Geoffrey Vaki believes the constabulary needs God to cleanse, transform and renew it to its former past as a distinguished and professional organization.

Mr Vaki, who was suspended last March over an incident involving a lady, was reinstated by Police Commissioner Gari Baki on March 12 this year.

He said much publicity has been made on what is perceived to be a crisis in the Police hierarchy but he has maintained a low profile and have not come out to voice his views and opinion.

"The inference and perception that the senior management are embroiled in a struggle for position, power and supremacy and prompted me to come out and clarify my position so that the public at large can be given a more balanced understanding of the events that have come to light."

Mr Vaki said his suspension on March 1 last year has had media coverage much of which was biased, unkind and far from the real facts and circumstances that related to the case.

"My name, integrity and standing as a person were extremely tarnished and brought to disrepute - all at the stroke of a pen. All the good one has done in his career to date is simply wiped out in minutes by individual journalists who do not have the decency, ethics and respect to conduct research and come up with balanced reports," the Deputy Commissioner said.

He explained that it was the Commissioner's prerogative to suspend him and order an investigation. However, the party involved withdrew the case and apologized for causing Mr Vaki shame.

"I was never the instigator of the incident. That is what the public did not know about and in retrospect look at the extreme damage done to my name and integrity as a person. I've always respected protocols of human rights and rights concerning women and children. I've always maintained ethical standards and discipline. I've always held my head high as I've been an innocent victim all along."

Mr Vaki was directed by Commissioner Baki to resume office which he did on March 15. He has thanked both the Minister and Commissioner for his recall and attributes it to divine intervention... "I give praise, glory and honour to God almighty."

His recall, however, has become the subject of court proceedings by Deputy Commissioner Anthony Wagambie had been in the chair left vacant following Mr Vaki's suspension.

Mr Vaki told Sunday Chronicle he respected Mr Wagambie's decision to take the matter to court and he would just wait and see.

In the meantime, however, he believes the constabulary needs cohesive leadership at the executive level to assist the commissioner.

"It therefore calls for team players to be managers for change to bring about dynamic and tangible differences in the way this organization can carry out its duties to the nation.

"I believe I have the physical status, passion and vibrancy of mind to contribute in this context," Mr Vaki said.

He adds he has no other agenda in mind except to simply want to assume office to serve the government and people of this nation.

"The RPNG needs to seek God almighty's redeeming and healing hand...I sincerely believe in this."

Highlands highway bridge collapses

2010-04-04T17:56:00.000+10:00

By BUSTIN ANZU

A HIGHLANDS Highway bridge at Henganofi in the Eastern Highlands province collapsed last week, cutting off access to the highlands provinces as well as Madang and Morobe provinces.

Kafetina Local Level Government (LLG) President Elijah Kemeya said the bridge was expected to be fixed on late Saturday or early Sunday last weekend.

He said an excavator, owned by TSC Contractor and based in Lae was returning for service after upgrading roads in Lufa, in the Eastern Highlands province.

Due to heavy rains, the Kainantu side of the bridge was not stable and it gave way under the weight of a vehicle carrying the excavator.

President Kemeya, who is also Ward 4 councilor where Kronote Bridge is, said most of those bridges between Kassam and Daulo Pass which were built during the colonial era must be replaced with new ones.

He said the bridges could not withstand the weight from heavy vehicles.

The highway was cut off for about a week, denying access for highlands bound trucks loaded with basic supplies and goods for supermarkets, hospitals, schools, businesses, resource project sites, fuel depots and local business houses.

Those badly affected included betel nut vendors who had to cross on foot to the other side to continue their journey.

Coffee and tea exports did not reach their destination in Lae and Madang.

ALCPNG invited to Australia for 50 year celebration

2010-04-04T17:47:00.000+10:00

By JACK NOAH YAMAHA

FIVE senior pastors and a missionaries from the Association of Local Churches in Papua New Guinea (ALCPNG) were invited by their sister church, Finnish Pentecostal Church for their 50th annual conference in Brisbane, Australia over the long Easter weekend.

They have also extended their invitation to other sister churches in 48 countries in the world for this celebration. Papua New Guinea is represented by Iose Iamba (Chairman ALC PNG), Pastor Apai Tomio, Titus Pii (Principal of Pentecostal Bible School Mendi), Pastor Timothy Angopa, Benny Ipia (Regional Chairman, ALC Highlands) and Vekke Kampi(missionary).

Pastor Heikki Kivimaki, a senior pastor for Brisbane Finnish Pentecostal church said, churches in PNG have been recognised for their fruitful partnership over the last 40 years. ALC Papua New Guinea's representation at the conference is the result their long fruitful association in mission field.

Pastor Apai Tomio said Papua New Guiea group is very glad to be with thier evangelistical partners and celebrate the significant achievement Finnish church has achieved over the 50 years in Australia.

"We are some of the fruit of the seed they've sowed in the Pacific some forty years ago. We are delighted and looking forward to this conference and also to participants from other countries as well," said Pastor Apai.

The delegation will spend eight days in Brisbane.

Public broadcaster chaos far from over

2010-04-04T17:42:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

CHAOS and confusion is the order of the day in the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) of Papua New Guinea, a staff member told Sunday Chronicle.

According to a senior staff member, the tussle over the managing director's position between the incumbent Joseph Eladona and board chairman appointed Memafu Kavera is far from over.

He said on Wed, technicians pulled off the Kundu 2 signal following the suspension of the acting executive director for Kundu 2 TV, Joe Wafewa.

He said for a good three hours, Kundu 2 did not have any signal between 12 and 3 pm but technicians at the NBC exchange at Boroko picked up the problem and had it installed.

The officer who did not want to be identified in fear of reprisal said the technicians wanted to meet with the management at Studio 204 but the management did not turn up.

He said there is total confusion and the government must do something about it to resolve it immediately.
He said both men have already divided the staff and a completely new person is needed to neutralise the situation.

Meanwhile, lobbing for this position is going on and this paper is reliably told that some have brought submission for the position to the Prime Minister.

The State Solicitor had written to Mr Eladona that his time had lapsed and that he could not act as the MD but the Department of Personnel Management had advised otherwise, creating total confusion.

PPP confirms candidate for Rai Coast by-election

2010-04-04T17:39:00.000+10:00

PNG's PEOPLE'S Progress Party (PPP) has finally confirmed the endorsement of Henry Malompi Bayema as its candidate to contest the Rai Coast Open by-election.

This comes after resolving certain misunderstandings between Mr Bayema and party executives.
Reports received from Madang indicate the candidate Henry Malompi Bayema has nominated as an independent due to miscommunication between the party's executives and the candidate but since then PPP executives were on the ground in Madang last week and have sorted out those issues.

Candidate Mr. Henry Bayema has written to the Madang Provincial electoral office in Madang to advice them of his party alliance and endorsement while a copy will be delivered to the electoral commissions office in Port Moresby this week by PPP's general secretary, Amos Daniels.

Mr. Daniels while accepting the endorsement of Mr. Henry maintained that the party's commitment to the rural areas of Papua New Guinea is what the party stands for and cannot just seat back and watch the by-elections pass by.

"PPP must be part of every democratic process and must be well represented in all regions politically as PPP has got a lot to offer to the people of Papua New Guinea when in government."

The party's deputy leader and member for Bulolo, Sam Basil also while welcoming their candidate for the Rai Coast Open seat said the Rai Coast people from Astrolabe Bay LLG, Naho Rawa, Saidor and Nayudos Amon deserve a strong leader especially when the Rai Coast electorate is classed as the second least developed district in PNG where the bulk of the electorate is very rural and hard to reach.

"The development of Ramu Nickel mine also has brought a lot of issues from the concerned landowners, affected communities regarding spin offs and benefits and environmental concerns raised by the NGOs.

"The PPP members of parliament and its aliias will physically show the people of Rai Coast during the campaign period that we are all concerned about the future of this nation and the only way to exercise those rights is through the democratic way of a fair and a just election.

"The problems this nation is facing begins from the elected leaders from the floor of parliament, if you have bad leaders then you get a sub-standard leadership often riddled with corruption.

Mr Basil further noted that many past elections have seen cash and gifts being offered by the dominant and powerful political parties which always brings them back into power which has set a bad precedent in the way electioneering is done in PNG.

He said the urban areas of PNG including rural electorates who have easy access to the media and a sound knowledge of the politics of the day can produce a good and fair leader from the available information which needs not to be preached by the candidates themselves.

"Meanwhile the very remote electorates are prone to be bribed and conned into many unrealistic issues where they can easily vote without considering the pros and cons of the situations which often lead to the negative sentiments being expressed by the rural people of being neglected by the Waigani Government time and time again.

"This must change and the MPs from the opposition themselves will walk the track and spend time with the people on the ground to explain in detail the current situation in parliament. Also the general on-the-ground situation this country is facing which the rural people have limited access to due to the hardship of accessing media coverage in the rural settings."

Mr. Basil stressed a major political change should begin in the 2012 elections and Rai Coast by-election should set the precedent and pave a way forward for a regime change come 2012, Mr Basil said.

PNG Landowners demand K500 million in business grants

2010-04-04T17:32:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

PROJECT Area Land Owners (PALO) of the PNG LNG Project are demanding that the State and Developers increase their agreed Business Development Grant (BDG) of K120 million to K500 million.

In an impromptu meeting on Sunday last week at the Granville Motel, the landowners revealed that the K120 million BDG agreed at the Kokopo UBSA was completely inadequate.

The landowners, surprised at the State's relegation of the administration of the BDG from DPE to the Department of Commerce and Industry vented their frustration at each other in heated exchanges before coming to some resolutions for the State's consideration.

The general consensus was that the K120 million BDG was completely inadequate and that the State and Developers needed to review it.

Andagali Kurubugo, Chairman of Hides PDL1 Peoples Association Inc (Hides PDL1 PA Inc), told the meeting that he foresaw the problem and tried to counter it with a request for an increase of the BDG to K500 million in his peoples Position Paper at the Nogoli LBBSA .

"I knew we had so many ILGs and Landowner Companies in Hides alone and if we were to share the K20 million allocation from the K120 million allocated to us, all of us would be left with completely nothing. We relied on this seed capital and the mere pittance will be unable to allow us to be participants in the project on our lands," he said

Parila Wani Hayako, Public Relations Officer of Hides PDL1 PA Inc said the PALOs will have nothing to assist them with to participate in the project.

Alluding to recent media advertisements by the Department of Commerce and Industry setting out criteria for accessing the K120 million BDG, Mr. Hayako said most of the criteria were an insult to the landowners.

"We have been vocal about the State's failure to comply with the statutory provisions of the Oil & Gas Act on Social Mapping, Genealogy Studies and Clan vetting. Now Commerce and Industry is telling us that we need this information to qualify for the BDG. The State let us down and now the State is aggravating the situation by asking us to provide information that it never considered important in the lead up to the ratification of the project," he said.

Hayako said the K20 million break up for Hides was not enough.

"The last time I checked no capital equipment at Morgan Equipment is going for K2000. We can't buy a bulldozer, an excavator or a tipper truck. How can we participate in the LNG Project? This is a complete rip off," he said.

LJSP funds houses for senior PNG police officers

2010-04-04T17:29:00.000+10:00

LEFT - Kulunga (with pink shirt) receiving the keys from contractor Jarme while other senior police officers witness the small but significant ceremony. Picture by BUSTIN ANZU

By BUSTIN ANZU

Papua New Guinea Police has appreciated the role of the Law Justice Sector Programme (LJSP) in funding houses for senior police officers throughout the country.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Administration Tom Kulunga, while receiving the keys to a new house at Bumbu Police Barracks in Lae, thanked LJSP for helping to reduce the burden of searching for houses.

"Housing is one of the problems within the Police Force and the department is doing its very best to address it. The Sector (LJSP) has been very kind to us by building such houses for our officers," he said.

Kulunga, in company of ACP Joab Mangae (Logistics) and Giossi Labi (Momase), Morobe Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Peter Guinness and other Lae officers, received the keys from Jacob Bernard Jarme, managing director of JBJ Enterprises, the contractor who was tasked to construct the house.

The police chief said LJSP is also funding the building of seven other similar houses throughout the country.
Last year, the National Government released K50m for police housing around the country. Houses like Wau (Morobe), Popondetta (Oro), Milne Bay and Mount Hagen were part of that package but that was still not enough. Police barracks throughout the country need similar funding for their setups.

Police Commissioner Gari Baki, DCP Kulunga and ACPs Labi, Mangae and PPC Guinness previously travelled to Wau to inspect the houses and were impressed with the buildings for Wau police.

The keys were later handed over to Labi who forwarded it to OIC Barracks Policewoman Inspector Pauline Siaguru, who will be the tenant.

Labi said the constabulary is an advocate of equal employment opportunity and since Siaguru is the only female officer and in charge of the barracks, she will occupy the house, which was initially designed for provincial police commanders.

Contractor Jarme said the construction of the H65 house took his company 12 weeks to complete which was within the time frame and was built at a cost of K250,000 with funds made available by the Law Justice Sector Program.

NRI Launches PNG District and Provincial Profiles

2010-04-04T17:22:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

Papua New Guinea's provincial and district administrators including all members of parliament and other stakeholders in the country's development can now be able to compare their own performance against that of their peers in other provinces.

For the first time, the coutry's think tank, National Research Institute has compiled a Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profile that gives all basic information in Health, Education, Economic Activities, and other general information about social and economic development of the country.

Being the first, the publication, Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profile gives baseline information about health, education and economic activities in each province together with their indicators which will help development planners in each district and province including all Members of Parliament to access in order to plan for their districts and provinces.

The publication also included infrastructure as a delivery mechanism of both social and economic developments.

Director of the National Research Institute, Dr Thomas Webster said the publication will be the driver of change and resource allocation for decision-makers right down to the district levels.

"The need for district level data is very crucial so that we can monitor progress being made at the district level," Dr Webster said.

"Currently, our data systems are weak and as such, there is limited information on public record and use for development purposes," Dr Webster said.

The National Research Institute intends to update this publication every two years and in doing so, can give trend analysis developments in areas of health, education, infrastructure, and economic activities over a given time frame.

Environmentalist says PNG LNG environment report rushed

2010-04-04T17:18:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE Environment Impact Study (EIS) done by the developer of the LNG Gas project has a lot of flaws, according to an environmentalist engaged by the Gulf Provincial Government.

And, with this report in hand, the Gulf Provincial Government is taking the developer and the State to court for K2 billion in compensation.

Bafike Kongrui of Chem Clean Environmental Services LTD told a small gathering last week that if the impact assessments study done by the developer was to be presented in countries like Australia, Canada or the United States, it would have been used as "toilet paper."

Mr Kongrui said either the people involved did not know what they were doing or deliberately did what they did thinking that the Gulf people were naturally shy and would be ignorant of the impacts of the LNG project.

He said the assessment report done by the Coffee Natural Systems used some out-of-date data and also among many other issues did not quantify their findings against monitory value.

The environmentalist said the oil and gas may belong to the Government but what is on the land belongs to the people.

He said the people depend on the land and sea and the LNG project would have a lot of impact on the people who depend on them. He said the assessment report done by the developer did not quantify these and that makes the report unreliable.

Governor Havila Kavo in raising concern on the lack of response from the National Government and developer said his government would pursue legal actions if the concerns raised by his government are not addressed.

Mr Kavo said the laying of the gas pipeline would destroy the seabed and would affect the livelihood of his people.

UPNG to boost training for doctors

2010-04-04T17:16:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

THE SCHOOL of Medicine and the Health Sciences of the University of Papua New Guinea established a strategic vision and plan to train enough doctors and medical specialists to serve the country with their head, hand and heart.

The 3H (head, hand & heart) therapy was identified as central to the service provision of all medical doctors and specialists in the country during a two-day strategic planning meeting at Loloata Island resort last week.

Medical professors and academics from the University of Papua New Guinea, the Taurama Campus, Institute of Medical Research (IMR) in Goroka and partners from Flinders University in Australia gathered at Loloata Island Resort to map out the strategy.

It was identified that medical specialists and doctors needed to be trained for the rural health centers. For these doctors to serve in their designated areas, they needed sound knowledge of the kind of services to be provided.

"We wish to produce doctors and medical specialists who can use the head, hand and heart combination to serve the health needs of our people in this country," Dr. Isi Kevau, Dean of the School of Medicine and Health Science at the Taurama Campus in Port Moresby said.

Dr. Kevau said that the school has been producing professionals for 50 years.

"After 50 years, the faculty is taking stock of how far we came and is strategizing for the next 50," Dr. Kevau said.

A detailed and well-defined strategy is being put together to garner a strategic medical approach to the masses of this nation.

"The Medical School is poised to produce doctors and medical specialists who have the brain (head), the skills (hand) and (love) the heart to serve in the rural health centers. We wish to achieve this through this vision and strategy," Dr. Kevau said.

Renovation of all existing buildings, well equipped modern computerized learning facilities, research centers and construction of new facilities including lecture rooms, training facilities and equipments have been blended into this strategic approach to lift the profile of the premier learning institution.

The School of Medicine and Health Science is the only institution in this country that produced many medical specialists in PNG and Solomon Islands. It was formerly the Papuan Nursing College and later became a Faculty of the University of Papua New Guinea. In July this year, the premier institution will celebrate its 50 years of producing doctors in the country.

Papua New Guinea's Ombudsman Commission to have audience with Opposition

2010-04-04T17:13:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE Papua New Guinea Opposition's position on the "Moses Maladina" amendments to the Ombudsman Commission (OC)laws would be determined after they have an audience with the OC on May 5, 2010.

Opposition leader Sir Mekere Morauta told the media that there may be some amendments which could be good and better for the country.

Sir Mekere said this when calling on the OC to come out in the clear and tell the people about the proposed amendments and the implications.

He said everyone was crying out loud for the amendments to be thrown out but there could be some that would be good for the country.

The former Prime Minister said when a leader gets referred, he works under suspicion and one of the amendments the government wanted was to give the OC two weeks to make its findings known but the Opposition opted for 31 days which the government agreed.

However, the OC should come out and explain amendment by amendment so that politicians and the people including the NGOs and other stakeholders can fully understand and appreciate the implications.

Meanwhile, Transparency International and NGOs are calling on all Papua New Guineans to oppose the amendments.

Soon after the passing of the second reading by 83 votes, awareness campaigns are being conducted against the the amendments.

PNG Deputy Prime Minister vows to improve decision-making culture

2010-04-04T17:09:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

DEPUTY Prime Minister Sir Puka Temu has vowed to improve the political and bureaucratic decision making culture in PNG that is "based on facts and evidence information" to move the country forward in the next 50 years.

Speaking at the launch of the country's first ever Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profiles, the Deputy Prime Minister said decision-makers need evidence based information to make informed decisions that would not only bring the country forward but also "ensure there is accountability in all three levels of government".

"I want to see a political culture where decisions are made on credible information. Evidence based information for decision-making is needed in this country," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

A one-time National Health Secretary, Sir Puka said Papua New Guinea cannot go on repeating the mistakes of the past 30 years. He said there are too many writings on the wall and it is about time the decision-makers make decisions that are based on facts and evidence.

"These types of documents become critical for our future. And I want politicians to understand and appreciate these data," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

In launching the Papua New Guinea District and Provincial Profiles, the Deputy Prime Minister said leaders and decision-makers must be informed in languages they understand to translate documents, data and information into action so that resources can be allocated to address national development needs.

"The leaders cannot understand infant and maternal mortality rates until you start bringing in all the dead bodies to the national parliament. That will make the leaders understand what infant and maternal mortalities are," Sir Puka said.

Since his appointment as the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Sir Puka does not want to play the blame game but instead chart the progress of PNG's future. Under his leadership, the Government has launched a 50-year development plan. And he is supporting the National Research Institute to bring fort up-to-date and reliable data to complement Vision 2050.

PNG Governor funds local radio ministry

2010-04-04T17:06:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

SANDAUN Governor Simon Solo this week presented K100,000 cheque to the christian broadcasting network, Wantok Radio Light, to extend its coverage to the northern part of PNG border province with the gospel messages.

The funds were derived from the Governor's K1 million grant that are given to all members of parliament.

"This is the ten percent of my one million Kina," Governor Solo said.

This is not the first time that the Sandaun Governor has given tithes of his public funds. Earlier, the governor has given ten percent of his constitutional grants to all churches in his electorate and also a K50, 000 cheque to Radio Gabriel, a sister network of Catholic-owned radio station, Radio Maria.

Governor Solo said everything belongs to God and it is only appropriate to give it back to God in various ministries.

Governor Simon Solo is one of the two Governors in the country to have given such huge sums of money to the Christian broadcasting network. Western Province Governor Dr Bob Danaya has also given K100, 000.
Wantok Radio Light is a listener supported radio network spreading the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week and three hundred sixty five days a year.

Paru Aihi, member of the Christian Radio Governing Council, received the cheque in the presence of the station's managing director and staff members.

PNG undergoes International crime workshop

2010-04-04T17:00:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

PEOPLE who commit crimes in Papua New Guinea and take refuge in other countries or foreigners hiding here after committing crimes in other parts of the world can no longer run loose.

A two-day workshop this week has given enough teeth to law enforcement agencies to capture and prosecute such people under the International Crime Cooperation Act. The Public Prosecutors office organized and facilitated the workshop for agencies that prosecute such crimes.

The workshop came about after the much-publicised Julian Moti case. It was believed that the staff at the execution level were unaware of the processes and procedures to follow in handling those implicated of breaching laws of one country but taking refuge or living in another.

A senior officer with the Public Prosecutor department said that the workshop was organized to orient service agencies to be acquainted with the processes and procedures in capturing and prosecuting international crimes.

The agencies represented include Customs, Attorney General, Police, Law Society, Foreign Affairs, Australian Federal Police, Australian Attorney General, Ombudsman Commission, Prime Minister's Department, Labor and Industry, Interpol, Police Fraud Unit, Transnational Crime Unit and Private Lawyers.

They have been equipped now with the knowledge and skills in investigation, interrogations and arresting individuals or people accused of committing crimes in another country but living in PNG or commit crimes in here and take refuge in other parts of the world.

PNG growers, exporters query research and extension levies

2010-04-04T16:57:00.000+10:00

GROWERS and exporters alike in the East Sepik are questioning the PNG Cocoa Board (PNGCB) on the whereabouts of research and extension levies.

Agriculture Scientist and Cocoa Coconut Project (ACCP) Manager, Stephen Mombi sounded the alarm after so much was happening at PNGCB hierarchy in spite of the fact that there is no legal board in place.

The "no board" scenario has been the norm since 2007 all to the ignorance of Agriculture and Livestock Minister John Hickey, his Secretary Anton Benjamin and the Government of PNG, claimed Mr Mombi.

"PNG's total cocoa exports stood around 56, 000 metric tones at the rate of K20 per tone some K1.12 million must have been collected by PMGCB.

"By law (statutory obligation) PNGCB is supposed to pass on that money to PNG Cocoa Coconut Institute to carry out its primary function of research and extension.

"Right now PNGCB is not doing that; instead it encroaching on the primary functions of PNGCCI.
"PNGCB roles and functions s are to regulate, plan and divulge in policy matters and importantly look for better overseas markets and increase cocoa production in the country," Mr. Mombi said.

He called on the National Government to intervene and rectify the mess within the cocoa industry sooner rather than later.

Sir Mekere wants Port Moresby suburb roads sealed

2010-04-04T16:54:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

OPPOSITION leader Sir Mekere Morauta has suggested that the National Capital District get a loan and have the roads in the city sealed.

Sir Mekere said doing bits and pieces would not do much and is eventually costing the city millions.

The former Prime Minister said NCD could get a loan of K50 to K100 million and have it directed to upgrading and sealing of all the roads in the city.

He said this when presenting cheques to four groups for various projects in his electorate and announcing that he has allocated K6 million for roads.

Meanwhile, Sir Mekere said he is committed to working in partnership with Christian churches and other non-government organisations.

He also commended the work of the churches as partners in development and this country is in debt to their commitment where government services are not there.

Sir Mekere told the media and a small group of people that where there is no presence of the government, the churches are there.

As a leader he commended them for their continued services in both spiritual and physical.

Meanwhile, other funded activities in his Moresby North West electorate are the completion of bore water project at Nautana settlement worth K27,906, K10,000 to Agape group in Morauta for church building materials, about K4000 to Waigani catholic church, another K4,000 to Christian police ministry to buy musical instruments and K3,000 for Church of praise to buy building materials.

Mald commits to housing city teachers

2010-04-04T16:51:00.000+10:00

Moresby North East MP Andrew Mald with two buses he presented on Friday to the Susu Mamas and the Bomana CIS clinic. Picture by ROBERT PALME.

By ROBERT PALME

PORT MORESBY North East MP Andrew Mald is committed to building teachers houses inside school premises in his efforts to prioritize on human development in his electorate.

Mr Mald told this paper that human resources is one of his priority areas and to develop that resource, teachers must stay in houses in the school grounds rather than staying miles away from the school and in settlements.

He said a teacher staying in a good house on the school grounds would be more committed than someone who is staying miles away and either coming late or going early from school.

The MP said so far he has built eight houses and two more are planned for Bomana primary.
Those who received the houses so far are Bomana, Evadana and New Erima and he would extend this to other schools when land is available.

On Friday he also presented a 15-seater bus each to the Susu Mama's from his electorate and the Bomana CIS clinic.

He has also given three police vehicles and two are on their way and would be presented soon.
Mr Mald said he does not want the police to give excuses that there are no vehicles to attend to troubles in his electorate.

The MP said he wants his people to walk freely in the electorate knowing that police are patrolling their streets and settlements using the new vehicle he donated.

Southern Highlands school gets new classroom

2010-04-04T16:44:00.000+10:00

By RICHARD KELEBI

Tente Primary School in Mendi, Southern Highlands now has a modern double classroom thanks to the support of PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd (PNGSDP) and also through their own efforts.

The school has been run by the United Church since 1985. Tente, a suburb of Mendi, suffered widespread arson during the civil unrest in 2002 with many public buildings destroyed.

The high school and primary school were destroyed as well. The United Church has since conducted the Primary School in bush materials buildings and with the return of peace sought to rebuild on the old school site. The bad experience of 2002 which had haunted the United Church Highlands Region run school has since past and a positive sign of home is emerging.

Last Friday (19th March 2010), the Tente double classroom project was officially opened by Mr. David Sode, Chief Executive Officer of PNGSDP.

The event was witnessed by delegates of PNGDSP, the United Church Assembly office, staff and proud students and parents of the school.

Mr. Sode said, the United Church is no stranger to PNGSD as they have both being partners in bringing developments to other parts of the country such as Western province, Bougainville, New Ireland and Milne Bay.

"We first received the proposal to support this project in 2008 with funding of K180, 000 and saw an opportunity to contribute to education in the region. We have heard the stories of the conflict that swept this land. In turning from hostility to peace we stand with you to choose education for our future generation as the way forward; to open the minds of students to seek innovative ways of addressing challenges whilst at the same time treasuring traditional ways that brought prosperity to the people."

"Education remains a prime focus for PNGSDP to make meaningful impacts in the lives of people in rural communities. On a wider scale, the objectives of the company is to support sustainable development through projects and initiatives that benefit the people of PNG and it particular the people of Western Province, during the period after the Ok Tedi Mine closure."

In 2008, the United Church Highlands Region approached PNGSDP to contribute to the construction of the one double classroom. PNGSDP approved a funding allocation of K180, 000 with the United Church contributing K30, 000.00 bringing the total cost of the project to K210, 000.00

PNG major super fund declares K191 million profit

2010-04-04T16:40:00.000+10:00

Chairman of the Nambawan Super board of directors Sir Nagora Bogan (second from left) and some board members after the announcement on Wednesday. Picture by Mary Pia'afu of Nambawan Super.

By ALPHONSE BARIASI

MAJOR superannuation fund Nambawan Super has weathered the global financial meltdown and declared a "solid" profit for 2009.
The good news also translates to a 10 per cent interest crediting for the super funds' 113, 564 members throughout the country.

Chairman Sir Nagora Bogan announced on Wednesday that Nambawan Super made an after tax profit of K191 million for the past financial year. The 10 per cent interest to be credited to members' accounts equates to K236.5 million.

All members can expect their accounts to be credit with the new interest by end of next week. Sir Nagora said in a press statement that determining the annual interest rate is a very serious decision for the board of directors.

"The audited financial statements of the fund for the year and all aspects that have a bearing on the financial outcome have been considered, not just the after tax profit figure. The board makes sure proper accounting standards are met. It also factors in economic forecasts for the next few years to make sure it sets aside sufficient reserves to meet the prudential requirements set by the Bank of PNG."

While a double digit interest cediting has been approved for the year, reserves have increase to K74.7 million from the 2008 levels of K66.6 million.

The chairman also announced that in spite of the difficult investment conditions, the fund's assets stand at K2.83 billion, an increase K210 million from 2008.

The 2009 income of K249 million was attributed to good performance in interest earnings, property revaluations, international shares and exchange rate benefits arising from the drip in value of the kina.

"The fund has been prudent, responsible and conservative in the valuation of our investments. This is reflected in only 33 per cent of our total income being unrealized 'paper profits," Sir Nagora said.

Nambawan Super's success is attributed to its strong investment portfolio, 17 per cent of which is in property.
Port Moresby's central business district for instance, holds a number of prime properties owned by Nambawan Super. The latest addition is a nine storey office building.

Nambawan Super's other significant investments are in SP Holdings (20 per cent), Kumul Hotels (55 per cent) and Brian Bell group of companies plus a few others.

The funds' investment in the hotel and tourism industry includes the Alotau International Hotel in partnership with the Airways group of hotels and the Gazelle International Hotel rising from the home of the famed Queen Emma in Kokopo.

Earlier this week, Kumul Hotels Ltd announced the development of its new Holiday Inn Express hotel and apartments in the premises of the existing Holiday Inn in Port Moresby.

ANZ set to celebrate 100 years in PNG

2010-04-04T16:35:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

AUSTRALIA and New Zealand Banking Group, ANZ is set to celebrate 100 years of its operations in Papua New Guinea in June.

And as part of its celebrations, the ANZ Group will be making their existing products and services more accessible to their clients.

"We might carry out a full review of products ANZ is currently offering to make them more accessible to the people as part of our rebranding and centennial celebrations," said ANZ head of Marketing, Mea Ravu.

"For instance, we will relax our loan guidelines to ensure our clients have access to loan facilities. We want to make the bank uncomplicated to all our clients," said Mr Ravu.

The Bank was established in the country on the 16th of June 1910 and has since grown from strength to strength and to date, it serves a high-end market niche in Papua New Guinea with branches spread throughout major centres in the country.

Last year, the bank rebranded itself with a new logo that depicts that ANZ is part of the world we live in. And indeed, it has been part of the world that revolves around Papua New Guinea for the last 100 years when the country was taking its first steps to what is now called Papua New Guinea.

To kick-start their celebrations, the bank has put together a centennial celebration team that will move the bank's celebrations forward in the coming months. And the team wasted no time in going out to the communities.

They have donated school materials to Badighawa High School in NCD as well Kemabolo Primary School in the Central province. They expect to go to other centres in the coming months and the initial preparation of the centennial celebrations progresses.

Leader fears for sovereignty

2010-04-04T16:33:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

A HIDES Landowner leader fears that the use of G4S security company in the LNG Project will undermine our sovereignty.

Commenting on the recent announcement by the developers of the PNG LNG Project of G4S's engagement as the main security contractor for the project, firebrand Hides leader, Simon Ekanda stated that the move was ill-conceived and would lead to trouble.

"If we contract all our internal security requirements to them, where does that leave our sovereignty? When they take over the army and the police, we are finished. Are they trying to reap our resources through force?"
Ekanda said the move instead of utilizing landowners as partners in the project marginalizes and aggravates them further. What special skills does a guard need? Who can guard better than us locals who know our own customs and environment far better than any foreigner," he queried.

Referring to former Defence ForceCommander, Jerry Singirok's comments in the dailies this week on the issue, Ekanda said these views must be taken seriously. "This is a former top soldier talking and I support his views because that is exactly what I have been saying all along," he said.

Singirok is reported to have said amongst other things that the government allowing foreign owned security firms to participate in the PNG LNG Project when they have no appreciation of the local customs, cultures and the people might bring about a situation far worse than Bougainville.

"We have been demanding recognition as partners in this project on our lands but have been continuously pushed to the sidelines. The 26 chiefs of the Tuguba tribe did not sign the LBBSA and therefore are not obligated to the project. We are at liberty to do anything we want on our land," Ekanda said.

He said Governor Agiru's call for Exxon-Mobil to reveal how much of the US$ 15 billion would remain in the country is a complete turnaround.

"We wanted these answers at all the forums but never got any. Agiru signed the agreement and now he wants to know? It would have been better to know before he signed but we are right behind him in this view," he said.

Journalists learn about UN ideals

2010-04-04T16:30:00.000+10:00

WHAT are MDG's, EFA's and ESD? Regardless of the fact that the very existence of these UN initiatives lean towards helping humanity most of us including journalists do not have an understanding of what they are or how they can positively impact the lives of ordinary citizens.

Journalists from and various Pacific Island states including Papua New Guinea were fortunate to attend a workshop last week in Nuku'alofa the capital city of Tonga, to get an insight into Millennium Development Goals (MDG's), the Education for All (EFA) and Education for Sustainable Development.

Facilitated by the Tonga National Commission for UNESCO and the Tonga Ministry of Education, the weeklong workshop was specifically aimed at bringing about awareness amongst media, information and communication personnel and practitioners on international goals and commitments that relate to education.

The main idea of the workshop was to get journalist to better understand the international goals and commitment so that technicalities of these initiatives can be broken down into a language that is understood by people at the grassroots level.

Apart from being lectured on the international Goals and commitments Facilitators Mr. Mikko Cantel the ESD specialist from UNESCO Bangkok and Mr. Paul Hector from UNESCO's pacific cluster office in Samoa got the participants to seriously think of different ways of making Education stories make headlines on the media as they are competing for space with other genres such as sports and crime.

"Education stories can be boring sometimes. People are more interested in crime stories so you have to be creative in your way of writing...your stories must be more human centered", said Mr. Cantell.

The workshop began on Monday 22nd and ended on the 26th of March, 2010.

PNG 'Suicide' Bomber Kills Policewoman In a Terror Attack

2010-02-28T16:40:00.003+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

IN A suicide attack, a suspected criminal blew himself and a policewoman in the heart of Papua New Guinea's third largest city, Mount Hagen, capital of Western Highlands province on Friday.

And the city is in shock following the incident in which the suspect had a hand grenade detonated at the Wamp Nga service station opposite the main bus stop and the popular Mount Hagen market.

Assistant police commissioner and commander for Highlands Simon Kauba said the incident is the first of its kind for the police force where a terrorist like attack occurred.

"We got a terrorist like attack ...it is the first time for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary," he said.

Mr Kauba when talking to this paper yesterday morning (Saturday) said the body of the suspected criminal was still stuck to the vehicle as policemen and medical officers feared that there may be other grenades and refused to go near.

The police chief said the policewoman was trying to get off the troop carrier when the hand grenade went off blowing her about 25 meters from the vehicle, killing the suspect and seriously injuring the driver and three other policemen.

Mr Kauba said he was meeting with his senior officers in Mount Hagen and was also trying to get the bomb squad from Port Moresby to go to Mt Hagen and investigate the incident.

He said the suspect and now deceased has been identified as Pawa Moni, 35, of Kelua No. 2 village and was wanted for a series of crimes including an ATM machine robbery in Lae and the murder of a security guard at Konfarm outside Mount Hagen recently.

The assistant commissioner said police were informed of the suspect and they had him arrested from a PMV and were trying to get him into the vehicle when the grenade exploded.

Mr Kauba said the motive of the grenade attack is not yet clear as the arresting policemen are in the Mount Hagen hospital's intensive care unit, but they believe the suspect may have accidentally pulled the pin in the process of trying to escape from the arresting officers.

The commander said the city has come to a stand still as this is the first such incident for the police force and the country.

This he said is no longer a story heard in other countries but has come home and is shocking for the constabulary and the people of Mount Hagen and the country.

The policewoman is believed from the Mid Waghi area of the province and is a recent graduate from the Bomana training college.

Meanwhile, Mr Kauba has called on everyone to work with the police in endeavours to maintain peace and harmony in the society.

PNG on the brink of dictatorship rule

2010-02-28T16:16:00.000+10:00

- Attorney General warns of immature politicians and powerful multi-national corporations colluding to interfere in the third arm of government.

- All ingredients for a maturing dictatorship are already present in PNG

By BENNY SANDEKA

JUDGES of the National and Supreme Courts in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been told in no uncertain terms this week that the independence of the third arm of government is being question in the public arena and fears the last bastion of the country's democracy may become a joke within the next 30 years.

Attorney General, Dr. Allan Marat told a ceremonial court sitting in Port Moresby this week that "there are very serious issues being raised in court cases, the media and homes" about the independence of the judges relating to "conflict of interest" issues.

The Attorney General said: "Instances of conflict of interest and independence of judges are numerous. Some have been reported in judgments, some have been addressed administratively within the judiciary itself and some are tormenting the conscience of some judges."

"There are signs of maturing dictatorship in PNG and PNG has all the ingredients of corporatocracy, namely major corporations, international banks and colluding governments.

"The influx of mercenaries occur as a matter of course. Manipulation by outside political and commercial interests is increasing and mercenaries have been brought into PNG under the guise of consultants."

The Attorney General said, these developments are hair-raising and called on the courts to be wary of these developments and begin to design appropriate judicial attitudes to address them when they are presented in the court of law.

"There is a trend developing in PNG and the courts must be cognizant of it. More and more young, greedy and immature so-called leaders through their association with foreign economic hit men are becoming greedy and have sold this country to multi-million corporations," the Justice Minister said.

"There is now so much foreign interest at stake in this country. And unless the law enforcers, including the courts wake up to this development....our judiciary is going to be a joke to this corporatocracy in the next 30 to 50 years."

Dr Marat says, closely related to the issue of independence of the judiciary is the undue delays in the delivery of judgments in cases.

"When these young, greedy and immature so-called leaders are referred to the courts for obvious failures to observe the rule of law, their cases come before the courts and then, what happens?"

The Attorney General said judgments are delayed as dates are stretched out for far too long and these immature, greedy so-called leaders continue to govern a people who are crying for justice.

Dr. Marat said, a judge who delays a ruling, is responsible to some extent for additional problems emanating from delayed judgments. He says, such behviour will only entrench corporatocracy in PNG and erode the respect people have for the courts in this country.

"In these circumstance, your honours must take effective measures to defend the mineral, energy and other resources of PNG by handing down judgments as quickly as possible.

"Your decisions whether to reserve judgment for a long period of time or not must be inspired soley by the need to protect national interests and in the unrestricted defense of PNG's sovereign rights," Dr. Marat said.

PNG High School Funds Misused

2010-02-28T16:12:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

MALE students at Aiyura National High School in PNG's Eastern Highlands province are sleeping in their classrooms because of the inability of the contractor, who was awarded K4 million under the controversial RESI program, to satisfactorily maintain their dormitories.

Assessment of the work done reveal shoddy and very poor work worth an estimated K35, 000 of questionable maintenance.

This sad state of affairs has prompted Obura-Wonenara MP, Hon. John Boito, to come out publicly and point the finger squarely at the Department of National Planning and Monitoring for its perceived underhanded and grossly irregular awarding of the K4 million to the dubious contractor.

A visibly angry MP told a media conference on Wednesday that all proper financial and project tender procedures were breached in the awarding of this contract. He said the contractor did not possess Project Management or building background. "They had no capital, equipment or machinery. All this calls into question their competency," he said.

He said before the K4 million payment the company's operating account had a balance of only K51. 83. With the K4 million payment, we have information that, the principal started buying plantations and real estate. This is the same company that was awarded a dubious contract to maintain footpaths in Parliament. They have links to some very senior politicians,' he said.

Boito revealed that his office was aware that the Department of National Planning drew two manual cheques on July 3rd last year for Infrastructure maintenance at Aiyura National High School (K4 million, BSP Chq# 001070) and Tairora High School (K2 million, BSP Chq# 001054).

Both cheques, drawn from the Education Sector Infrastructure Rehabilitation Trust Account (RESI) and payable to the Obura-Wonenara District Treasury Operating Account were never delivered.

Boito said the Department of National Planning withheld the cheques for safekeeping and to date their fate remains a mystery.

He said despite this a further K4 million was raised on November 26th, 2009 and paid out to a John Mauves Investment Ltd for Maintenance of Aiyura National High School infrastructure. "The manner in which the contract was awarded is highly questionable and is of a suspicious nature. Please correct me but this project was never put on public tender. The Central Supply and Tenders Board have no knowledge of the project," Boito said.

The Deputy Governor of the Eastern Highlands said the project documentation was based on an original scope of work prepared by Ramu Engineering Ltd, the preferred local contractor appointed collectively by the Aiyura National High School Board of Governors and School Administration, the Obura-Wonenara District Administration and JDP & BPC.

"The contractor awarded the contract had no idea of the required maintenance work for Aiyura. Only National Planning has the answers to why the whole K4 million was paid up front to John Mauve Investment Ltd," Boito said.

He said normally upfront payment of 10% mobilization costs are paid for contracts. The rest is released stage by stage after satisfactory inspection reports.

Boito said numerous attempts to get answers from the Department of National Planning were unsuccessful. "My letters to the Minister on this matter have not been responded to," he said.

The MP revealed that he would seek legal avenues to ensure that the monies are recovered. On January 2 this year I registered the complaint with the Police Fraud Squad, I will ensure that we get to the bottom of this and stop such fraudulent practices from happening again, he said.

The deputy Parliamentary leader of the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) Party said these projects were in line with the undertakings of the 'Warongoi Accord' whereby Government backbenchers were told to submit project proposals for funding by the Government. PDM is a partner in the Somare/Temu Coalition Government.

Minister terminates projects

2010-02-28T15:53:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

TRIBAL warfare and other criminal activities would cause termination of development projects in the in Papua New Guinea's Enga province.

Works, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Don Polye issued this stern warning when announcing the termination of developmental projects in his electorate worth more than K100 million.

Mr Polye told reporters on Wed that his people do not seem to want development.

The Minister said tribal fighting and any other criminal activities that hinder development would only affect the people themselves and the best way to tell them to stop their illegal activities is to terminate the projects until they are ready and willing to look after the projects and workers.

Mr Polye said villagers in his political support stronghold started a tribal fight three weeks ago over pandanus nuts.

This he said, resulted in the ambush and chopping of four women to death and two men killed during the warfare and burning down of three double classrooms at Kiripiso primary school.

A very disappointed Minister said people must take ownership of development and embrace them. He told reporters that when the people who are supposed to receive these services engage in tribal warfare, these services would be diverted to other areas.

Mr Polye said services are very hard to come and people must take every care in looking after what the government brings to them.

The projects in his area include two major roads from Kandep to Liagiam, phases two and three and Kandep Keapal. Other projects include three major roads, one of them is a lengthy road and bridge works across the Lai river known as the Wasa bridge, building of health centers, classrooms and library and computer room for the Kandep High school and the sealing of the roads at the Kandep station.

PNG Women leaders decry 'fruit pickers scam'

2010-02-28T15:49:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

UNSUSPECTING mothers in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been victims of a scam that swindled hundreds if not thousands of their hard-earned cash.

A woman, named, established an entity known as PNG Mama Heart to Heart Foundation early last year and under the pretext of helping underprivileged mothers, proceeded to collect fees and other payments from them.

The fees and payments were purportedly for passports, visas, airfares and accommodation costs for the mothers to work as fruit pickers on Australian farms.

Every meeting the mothers attended they were asked to pay an initial fee of K100, which was later reduced to K50. The mothers were told at these meetings that all the necessary requirements were being pursued and that their travel was imminent.

However, the travel date has been deferred so many times that a couple of mothers become suspicious and demanded their money back from the named woman.

Prominent women leaders who have heard of this scam are angry and have called on the woman concerned to account for her shameful conduct towards the unsuspecting mothers.

Ms. Katherine Eremas, a women's advocate and committee member of Port Moresby YWCA's Membership and Program Committee who has been instrumental in exposing this scam is adamant that regulations should be put in place to deter such unscrupulous individuals from taking advantage of the ignorance and illiteracy of our mothers.

Schola Kakas, the President of the National Council of Women, has supported her stand.

Ms. Kakas said such regulations would protect the less well informed. She issued a warning to small people not to be gullible. Check with the council to see if such groups are registered. "This simple action wills safe guard your money," she said.

Another Woman leader, Susan Setae of Papua Hahine, condemned the scam and its perpetrators. She questioned how such people could live with themselves. It is criminal to steal from the small people, she said.

Ms Setae who is also a volunteer with the Port Moresby General Hospital's Family Support Centre said too many such mushroom groups are very dishonest in their dealings with the ignorant and illiterate small people of this country.

Meanwhile, Sunday Chronicle has been reliably informed that a complaint was laid by some mothers against the woman principal of the PNG Mama Heart to Heart Foundation on Thursday. The source said the mothers confronted the woman at the Waigani Police Station and demanded their money back.

She has reportedly told the angry mothers that she will refund their monies today.

Mass walk out planned

2010-02-28T15:45:00.000+10:00

Air traffic controllers threaten to resign

By TERENI KENS

PAPUA NEW GUINEA Air Traffic Controllers' Association (PNGATCA) members unanimously agreed to walk off their jobs over disparities in the awarding of individual contracts which they deemed illegal.

They have given their employer and the management of the newly established state-owned enterprise, PNG Air Services Ltd (PNGASL) 48 hours notice to respond to list of demands or face mass resignation.

In a signed petition written to the acting managing director Tars Bola, the PNGATCA members throughout the country have expressed disgust and frustration at the manner in which the company opted to award individual contract packages.

The members are former Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) employees but have been transferred to PNGASL in 2008 under a new department restructure.

They noted that this is in direct conflict with CAA Act under section 334 clause on assets transfer. It stipulates that in assets transfer all working conditions and remunerations will remain until and when a new agreement is made.

They said what the management has done is not in the interest of the workers. There were no consultations and discussions made to effect the decisions. All was done in isolation.

The PNGATCA said the individual contracts that are being offered now are depriving, discriminating, disparity in nature and unfair.

The workers further claimed that PNGASL being the young offspring of CAA lacks sufficient data or none at all for its use. This has resulted in management making ill-informed decisions and having to use outdated CAA salary schedule to draft the contract employment offers which are recognized to be not competitive to the current and ongoing market rates.

The association has therefore in its list of demands called on the PNGASL to:

* Nullify all present and past individual contracts offered;

* Unions, employer (PNGASL) and other relevant parties to re-negotiate the contract packages as per the HR manual section 22 provisions;

* All positions (including management) to be advertised on the open market;

* Organisational structure plus the salary structure to be made available as soon as possible; and

* Immediately call for negotiations by Enterprise Bargaining for a more current Enterprise Agreement.

Failure to comply with these set of demands the association will result in the association applying certain provisions of the PNGASL HR manual which include mass resignation.

It is believed the move is likely to create havoc on air traffic and pose safety risk on all domestic and international flights including loss of business for all commercial airlines in the country.

It is also understood acting managing director Mr Bola has been delivered the copy of the petition which was signed by 90 disgruntled officers of the PNGATCA around the country.

Mr Bola could not be reached for comments at the time when this paper went to print but it is understood he verbally told the association executives that he will respond soon.

The association members planned for a meeting today to decide on the next cause of action.

PNG adopts latest Japanese technology

2010-02-28T15:43:00.000+10:00

By OMAE KOAKE

PAPUA New Guinea this week became the first country in the Pacific region and the world to embrace and trial out a new and pioneering piece of Japanese electrical technology that is deemed to serve the bulk of the people nationwide through a simple and reliably affordable electricity system.

This new technology has never been used or exported anywhere else in the world since its invention and PNG is now the pioneering host of its trial and the eventual import for usage by the people.

The new product is the world’s first small hydro-power generation system called by the maker by the name ‘ Small Hydro Stream ‘ and is quite unique because the stream uses the movement of large mass of simple free flowing water current to spinning energy for power generation. It is manufactured by one of Japan’s rising technical actors, The Seabell International Cooperation Limited (SICL).

The biggest benefit of the system is that there is no need for dam construction because it is small machine( 2x2x2 m ) and conveniently portable where it can be moved from one location to another following water sources such as creeks, large drains, small streams and rivers where there is constant flow of water.

It can also be installed at sea to convert running water and waves into electricity that can generate approximately one to 10 kilowatts of power and can generate enough electricity to light up to 30 houses for over 20 year period.

The five kilowatts system is the world’s first invention of dual axis turbine, opposite rotation accelerating gear system form reducing friction loss with the mechanical parts always staying above water reducing risk-factors of durability and cost factors on manufacturing and maintenance. The technology is different from solar power, wind power or conventional type of head hydro power ( Yonki / Sirinumu type ) and only provides reliable new energy power generation by water current, a stable power for consistently 24hours in 365 days a year unless there is a mechanical need.

The advantage of the system is that the environment around the installation site will not be disturbed/harmed and the weather ( wind/sun ) has no effect on the operations because water is a renewable resource which is constantly available to generate electricity.

The presence of the technology in the country is the initiative of Education Minister, James Marape who searched the globe for the most reliable and affordable electrification for all educational institutions in the country.

In his hunt, he bumped into Dr. William Tongamp from Western Highlands province who is a post doctoral researcher with the faculty of engineering at the Akita University in Japan.

Dr. Tongamp then introduced Mr Marape to his close Japanese friend who happened to be, Nobuchika Ihara, the managing director for the Seabell International Cooperation Ltd, the manufacturer of the new hydro-power system.

From then on, collaborations among the three gentlemen started with Mr Marape representing the people of PNG with close assistance from Dr. Tongamp, our elite son.

After numerous negotiations, Dr. Tongamp brought Mr. Nobuchicka to his native village last year and the Japanese was stunned that his mother was still living in a grass thatched hut without complete electricity.

This particular visit to the one of the most remote parts of the world deeply moved the inventor of the world’s hydro-power who from then on made a solemn commitment to bring the hydro system to PNG first before the rest of the world.

In a press conference this week at the State Function Room in Parliament, Mr Nobuchicka Ihara presented the technology to politicians and representatives from the corporate, public and private sectors including the media.

Mr. Ihara told the conference in the presence of Mr Marape and Dr. Tongamp that his company plans to build a plant in PNG for creation of employment and also to supply smaller Pacific Island countries and neighbouring Asian region with electricity.

Mr Marape thanked Mr Ihara on behalf of the government and the people of Papua New Guinea for choosing our country for the trial of the first ever technology. He further stated that he went out looking for a technology that will meet our electricity needs and we have found one that is relevant, applicable and environmentally friendly that will compliment the Government’s rural electrification policy.

He said that as the Education Minister, he is excited about this new technology that can provide power 24hrs for our children to have access to library, internet and the world.

The Minister assured the country that PNG is about to see great changes in their livelihood through the tapping of the latest global technology. Otherwise, this piece of technology is believed to have large potential to become one of the major renewable energy sources on earth in the near future and Papua New Guineans should be proud because we will be the pioneering country on earth to use the technology.

PM must sideline implicated ministers: Tekwe

2010-02-28T15:33:00.000+10:00

Vice Chancellor of the Assembly of God (AOG) Jubilee University, John Tekwe has called on Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare to immediately sideline state ministers who have been implicated in alleged criminal and leadership charges.

Mr Tekwe said it was incumbent on Sir Michael to put the interest of the over six million Papua New Guinean citizens ahead of personal, party and parochial interest.

He said: "The PM must take stop being arrogant and take serious heed of the calls from all sectors of the PNG community to take lead in fighting corruption by cleaning his own backyard."

"He must act in PNG's national interest and immediately decommission all ministers who are implicated in the various high-profile scandals to allow for relevant state law enforcing agencies proceed with their investigations unimpeded.

"The father of the nation must live up to his words to uphold the virtues of good governance, transparent and accountable leadership by him (Sir Michael) stepping aside pending the outcome of major scandals created during his reign over the past seven consecutive years.

"It is high time the PM takes serious heed of the conventions of ministerial responsibility. Not only should the ministers implicated be stood down, the PM must also accept that he is responsible for the misconduct and wrongdoings of any member of his cabinet.

"The PM and all implicated ministers implicated in any scandal or are under investigation must immediately step aside to allow the process of law to take its course. The investigation should proceed without any undue influence and interference to protect the integrity of these important public and taxpayer funded offices, the Office of the Prime Minister being the highest," Mr Tekwe stressed.

National Broadcaster launches Central FM

2010-02-28T15:30:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

"KIBI Gadona" the voice of the conch-shell can now reach all the remote parts of Central Province through the newly launched satellite 95.5 FM band.

PANGTEL CEO, Charles Punaha officially handed over the FM radio station broadcast license to the Minister for Communications, Patrick Tamur at the March Girls Resort outside Port Moresby on Friday.

This paved the way for National Broadcasting Cooperation (NBC) Central to broadcast through the first direct satellite service donated by the Australian Government.

"Central is the last province to switch to FM band, but you are the first to have the direct satellite service," Joseph Ealedona, NBC Managing Director told the gathering.

He said that NBC will soon do away with its short and medium wave (S/MW) replacing them with the crystal clear FM bands.

The Minister for Communications, Patrick Tammur challenged the Central Provincial Government to take ownership of the NBC FM station in funding and supporting its operations.

He said that radio plays vital role in informing, educating and entertaining the majority of the people and thus need provincial government support.

"Radio still is the most effective means of communication, reaching majority of the people in this country, regardless of our geographic settings," Minister Tammur said.

The minister said that the NBC rehabilitation programs were a government initiative since 2008 and wishes to upgrade and renovate all its existing provincial stations in the country.

"I challenge the board to take NBC to the next level. You should tap into the regional challenges," Tammur said.

He said the National Government in its 2009 allocated K21 million and asked the NBC board to continue its work in rolling out the television program launched in 2008.

The launching coincided with the NBC board meeting which was also held at March Girls Resort where its 2010/2015 corporate plan was discussed.

NBC board chairman, Paul Reptario said that the organization was tasked to establish a nationally own television station and to improve the 20 radio stations in the country.

"A corporate reform program is being established. Twenty FM transmission stations launched and a TV station established," Mr. Reptario said.

The Central Provincial government committed K50,000 to maintain and up-grade communication networks for the Central FM station. The provincial government also pledge annual assistance.

Meanwhile, Minister Tammur and minister for National Planning and Monitoring, Paul Tiensten pledged jointly build 100 houses for their staff.

Minister Tiensten officiated at the ground breaking ceremony in Port Moresby on Thursday. He said that 100 houses would be constructed at 5-mile and 6-mile areas of Port Moresby.

Sir Arnold told to be more useful

2010-02-28T15:24:00.002+10:00

THE ousted Governor of Madang Sir Arnold Amet is reminded not to be involved in shallow media statements that affect the law enforcement agencies because he himself is facing the Courts of Law.

Prominent Madang businessman, former MP and founding leader of the Peoples Labour Party (PLP) Peter Yama said this in response to a media statement in a newspaper this week in which Sir Arnold call on law enforcement agencies to be "diligent and thorough" in carrying out their duties.

Mr Yama pointed out two aspects.

"Sir Arnold must be careful in making insinuating comments to influence the judicial element of the law enforcement agencies because he is firstly facing the Supreme Court resulting from the petition I put through the courts to contest his win for the governor's seat in the 2007 elections in which I successfully removed him in the Court of Disputed Returns.

"Secondly, sir Arnold's own carelessness and undue behaviour has placed the judicial panel hearing this case into some difficulty so the former Chief Judge cannot be seen to be making insinuating comments or trying to preach to the judiciary," Mr Yama said.

He said Sir Arnold is a highly respected senior PNG citizen and he is respected in Madang but his very behavior and cheap political outbursts are out of character for him and the law enforcement agencies realise that.

"He has no stay order from any court to remain in office and if he believes he can contribute anything to PNG nation building then it should be through the overall legal system to seal loopholes so similar de-facto governor situations like Madang's present case do not happen in the future," Mr Yama said.

He said law enforcement agencies, the Government and the public must question why Sir Arnold should still be call governor and be allowed to decide on sensitive matters like the provincial budget and major resource developments like mining in Madang.

Aust envoy praises Eastern Highlands

2010-02-28T15:22:00.000+10:00

PAPUA NEW GUINEA Eastern Highlands province last week received most needed acknowledgement by the Australian Government for championing the nation's development policies.

Australian High Commissioner Ian Kemish and Head of AusAID Stephanie Copus-Camphbell expressed this to Governor Malcolm Kela-Smith, his Provincial Executive Council, Provincial Administrator Munare Uyassi and senior managers.

Mr. Kemish commended the government and administration under Mr Kela-Smith and Mr Uyassi for providing a strong leadership in moving the province forward.

"Eastern Highlands is the province that has provided a strong leadership from both the political and administrative level with good ideas to move forward in term of development and service delivery," he said.

"Long dispela tasol na mi hamamas long kam long Goroka fest taim mi stap long PNG olsem Hai Komisina (Therefore I am happy to come to Goroka in my first tour outside of Port Moresby since being in the country as High Commissioner."

The High Commissioner led a high level delegation including Minister Counsellor for AusAID PNG Ms Copus-Camphbell, Ms. Lousie Baker, Second Secretary Foreign Affairs, and wife Ms. Rokanne Martens were on the familiarisation visit to the province. This was his first visit outside of Port Moresby after staying in the country for three weeks.

Mr. Kemish said Eastern Highlands was doing well by adopting the developments strategies of the government and development partners like AusAID and progressing well ahead to practically implementing them.

"Eastern Highlands is a leading province this is doing very well in implementing government directives and development policies and has a good understanding with us, AusAID, so we choose to come here first," said Ms. Copus-Camphbell.

The Australian heads in PNG praised the province for strong political stability, good governance, proper management of public funds, improved public service performances, effective service delivery and development of new initiatives and ideas.

Governor Kela-Smith thanked the High Commissioner and Head of AusAID for recognising his government and administrations effort in managing and improving the service delivery magnesium in the province.

He also thanked them for the support given by Australian Government through AusAID to partner the developments of the province.

After a lunch hour briefing with the Governor and the Provincial Administration, Mr. Kemish and his delegation went on air with NBC Radio EH, then drove to Bihute Jail Camp and later to PNG Institute of Medical Research to see AusAID funded projects. He also had dinner with the Goroka Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The High Commissioner also launched a four-year coffee project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research with the PNG Coffee Industry Corporation.

The delegation later met with NGOs, Care International, Save the Children, Clinton Foundation, Oxfam, Appropriate Technology Projects, Eastern Highlands Family Voice that were funded through the PNG-Australia development partnership to discuss the challenges on HIV-AIDS in the province.

They also visited the Asaro Health Clinic outside of Goroka that is run by the Clinton Foundation and departed for Port Moresby on Thursday morning.

New TV tower for Henganofi

2010-02-28T15:18:00.000+10:00

Words and picture by HENZY YAKHAM

IT WOULD soon be a thing of the past for people in Henganofi district of Eastern Highlands province to travel some 30 kilometres into their provincial capital Goroka to see their favorite television programmes.

Henganofi MP Ferao Orimyo has paid a Highlands based company, Highlands Cable Television K200,000, to erect a communication tower to transmit television signals.

Mr Orimyo said people in the coverage area would be receiving television signals by May this year.

The transmitter, to be erected at Menehave in the Fayantina Local Level Government area, will cover the whole of Henganofi district as well as parts of neighboring Okapa, Lufa, Kainantu and Ungai-Bena districts.

This is new and important service which the people, particularly those with television sets, will not have to make the one hour trip to Goroka just to see their favourite programmes such as rugby league and other games on TV," Mr Orimyo stressed.

He said currently, many public servants and others have to travel all the way to Goroka to see a game of Australian rugby league (NRL) games.

"The new service will enable people to receive EMTV and Kundu 2 signals and enjoy news and current affairs, educational and entertainment programmes," Mr Orimyo said.

Polye angered over non release of funds

2010-02-28T15:14:00.002+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE Department of National Planning and Monitoring should come directly under the Prime Minister's Department and not a separate ministry.

Minister for Works, Transport and Civil Aviations Don Polye said this when expressing disappointment and anger at the National Planning Department for not releasing funds for road maintenance.

The Minister told reporters on Wed that without funds to maintain the major roads, Works and Transport Department could not do much.

He said everyone thinks his departments are at fault when in fact, the department responsible for making budget allocations and releasing funds is sitting on the requested and budgeted funds.

Mr Polye also said that the Department of National Planning should know the importance of road maintenance and appropriate enough funding for it.

The Kandep MP said if he was responsible for budgeting, he would appropriate K400 million for transport maintenance, K250m for roads and K150m for jetties and wharfs.

The National Planning office was an implementing agent and should come directly under the Prime Minister as he is the chief executive officer of the country.

The Prime Minister thinks that the Department of National Planning is implementing the budget but when it does not release funds, it is frustrating for other departments to perform.

Mr Polye called on all departments to go in tune with the budget and government policies and have them implemented.

He said he was getting tough on the National Planning Department because he has had enough and could not wait for the department to release the warrant.

Meanwhile, there were already creditors with bills amounting to K30 million and that basically leaves the Works Department with no maintenance funds for the remainder of this year.

Both the secretary and Mr Polye said their submissions for a separate emergency vote in the budget were not appropriated.

This paper understands that K20 million was released on Thursday.

Senior BSP manager to stand trial

2010-02-28T15:09:00.002+10:00

SENIOR BSP Bank Manager John Maddison has been committed to stand trial in the National Court for misappropriation while senior lawyer for Gadens Lawyers Erick Anderson has been exonerated of all charges by the Waigani Committal Court this week.

Mr Maddison was not present in court because of medical reasons and Committal Court Magistrate Sinclair Gora adjourned to May 17 for the Defendant to be dealt with under section 96 of the District Courts Act and to be committed to the National Court.

Erick Anderson was discharged and his bail monies of K10,000 was ordered to be refunded forthwith.

Both men were arrested and charged by police after a complainant was laid by Madang businessman and former politician Peter Yama. They were charged under separate information with 50 counts each of conspiring to defraud and 45 counts each of misappropriation. John Maddison was further charged with one count of falsifying a document.

Magistrate Sinclair Gora in a 17 page ruling on sufficiency of evidence , discussed in detail the charges, the role of the Committal Court, the issues, facts and evidences including written statements of 14 witnesses and 13 documentary exhibits put forward by the police prosecution.

The witness statements included Peter O'Neil who was once the Chairman of PNGBC Alex Tongayu and Ian Augerea. He also discussed the defence submission in detail.

In his analysis of both the prosecution evidence and the defence submission Magistrate Gora said: "On the charge of conspiring to defraud I find that the prosecution evidence lacks credibility to show existence of conspiracy to defraud between Erick Anderson of Gadens Laywers and John Maddison of the BSP. Their meetings were purely on a solicitor/client basis and in the presence of and witnessed by the other bank officers such as David Bakau, Stubbs Vele and Reo Ainiu as stated in their statements. Therefore the evidence supporting this charge is NOT sufficient to warrant committing the both accused to stand trial in the National Court. Accordingly I order that the both accused be discharged as to the information containing the charges of conspiring to defraud.

"On the charges of misappropriation there appears to be questions as to the legal basis or authority under which bank debited the account of NIESENEL No. 77 Limited to pay legal fees to Gadens Lawyers. This is a legal issue which the bank and John Maddison in particular should answer. Although I note defense counsel had made appropriate submissions on law in this issue relating to the bank's authority under the Fixed and Floating charges or other interlocking securities but this is not the right forum to address issues of law which appear to be contestable. The proper forum would be the trail court. Hence on that basis I find that there is some evidence which is sufficient to support the charge of misappropriation against accused John Maddison and to warrant committing him to stand trial in the National Court.

"But the same cannot be said about accused Erick Anderson. All that he had his lawyers did was to do legal work on instructions from BSP. They then raised invoices. How the invoices were paid was none of Mr Anderson's business. In any case legal fees were paid to the firm and not to Erick Anderson personally and therefore he could not have misappropriated monies to his own use. The evidence is therefore lacking and is not sufficient to warrant committing the accused Erick Anderson to stand trial in the National Court on the charge of misappropriation. Accordingly I order that the accused Erick Anderson be discharged as to the information containing the charges of misappropriation and his bail monies of K10,000 to be refunded forthwith.

"On the charge of falsifying document under Section 414 (B) (ii) and (iii) as in the case of John Maddison I note that the accused has been charged with furnishing a document. This provision does not talk about furnishing a document. It rather talks about making or producing a document. So I agree with the defense submission that this charge is not known in law hence defective."

Outside the court room police investigators stated that they will be studying the whole ruling.

Complainant Peter Yama declined to comment, saying it is a police matter and they are the once who decide on the next course of action.

Central Bank warns of inflation

2010-02-28T15:07:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

THE national government's unrestrained drawdown of funds in the trust accounts coupled with the demand for cash by the initial development of the multi-million kina Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and weakening PNG kina against major trading partners is creating unease in the economic circles of rising inflation.

This means, if the current trends continue throughout this year, there are fears that prices of goods and services may be forced to increase this year and the years to come if the national government does not take heed of the warnings of the Central Bank.

In a public announcement in the newspapers this month, newly appointed Bank of PNG Governor, Loi Bakani said there is a high level of liquidity in the economic system. There is too much money circulating in the economy. The Central Bank will continue its tough monetary stance to absorb this liquidity and bring the inflation to a manageable level. As part of its attempts to manage the economy, the Central Bank has requested the government to transfer its numerous trust accounts to the mother bank. But the government has ignored this request igniting fears of increase in inflation.

Since 2008, the Central Bank has made great strides by reducing inflation from 13.5% that year to 6.7% in the last quarter of 2009. While it is expected to continue a tight monetary policy in the medium term, the Central Bank is calling on the national government to manage the economy prudently by maintaining close coordination between the fiscal and monetary developments of the economy to maintain price stability.

As part of its monetary policy, the Central Bank is expected to continue its Kina Facility Rate (KFR) at 8% throughout the medium term subject to reviews in the first quarter of this year which is due next month.

HIV does not kill, tuberculosis does: Advisor

2010-02-28T15:03:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

Tuberculosis has been a major killer in Papua New Guinea over the years together with malaria prior to the advent of HIV/AIDS.

While both malaria and tuberculosis still contribute significantly to the country's mortality rates to date, their importance on the health and development agenda has faded into oblivion as the country's major health priority is on HIV/AIDS.

But slowly, this silent killer is getting back on the country's health and development agenda with the realisation that "HIV is not killing people but TB and Malaria does."

"We cannot fight against HIV without addressing TB. HIV does not kill. TB does and we must improve our collaboration between TB and HIV," said Clement Totavun of JT International, a medical advisory group in PNG.

"Fifty percent of AIDS mortalities are directly from tuberculosis. People don't die from HIV. When people are treated with TB, they can live long lives with their HIV status," Mr Totavun reiterated.

The paradigm shift back to this old time killer disease comes amid discontent within and outside the National Aids Council Secretariat, the body tasked to manage and coordinate efforts towards addressing HIV/AIDS in PNG that the secretariat is not longer functioning.

Chairman of the National Aids Council Secretariat, Sir Peter Barter has expressed concern that funds earmarked for this cause in the past have been squandered.

But the worrying trend in administering tuberculosis drugs is that patients are not faithful in taking their drugs. This is making the tuberculosis disease becoming more resistant to treatment and can become fatal.

Kopkop imparts business tips

2010-02-28T14:59:00.000+10:00

PROMINENT women leader and owner of Kopkop College, Maria Kopkop said for a woman to do well in business, she must be aware of and acquaint herself with basic knowledge found in business principles and in business codes and rules.

Speaking at the inauguration of the National Women's Forum - Equality And Participation For Women: A Better Future For PNG at the State Function Room, Parliament House, on Feb 15, Ms Kopkop said in the case where there is a lack of processed knowledge, practical knowledge and skill, experiences can be also very beneficial factor - which women have in abundance. She said women have it because it is chiefly women who have to carry the burden of raising the family in PNG society.

"When it comes to commercial business, I believe that the obstacles that keep us from being good in business are rooted in the emotional, psychological and spiritual conditions that have shaped our thoughts. It is very much a cultural thing. We have been too long conditioned to do only certain tasks. In such things like business we have been conditioned to be seen but not heard.

"My own approach has been different. We have a dream and we are endeavouring to achieve our dreams, but following our instincts and our own natural hunches. For me, this is the cornerstone of my approach to personal finance, and it is with this that has brought my thoughts and wellbeing to have fun in learning all about business and wealth," Ms Kopkop said.

She said life in itself is a mega business and with self-knowledge and emotional clarity, a life of abundance is within reach for all in commercial business.

"In commercial as well as non commercial business, it is important to know what it is that you want you to do in business. One must have a vision. To do business, the idea must come from your mind, heart and soul. It must become your passion and as part of your well being.

"To be disciplined, l use devotion, honesty, and humility to energise my mental and physical energy in order to take the college through its role and responsibilities in support of human resource development for nationhood building," she said.

Ms Kopkop said to have money to start a viable business is a major obstacle. She said PNG women have yet to learn of the tremendous strides women have made in India and South East Asia through the benefits from micro-finance institutions.

She said women in these countries have grasped these advantages because they are disciplined and better money-managers, having to eke out the pittance that their cash-rich husbands dole out to them.

She said in Papua New Guinea today, many of women are confused about where to turn for reliable business information. Often women are confused about whom to ask for financial advice, bank loan facilities and maybe other unplanned questions.

"Often, when we do get answers to our questions, we are confused because we want to be sure those answers are correct. The answer is in better education for young women in schools," Ms Kopkop said.

She said the times are slowly changing. Many of the female students in Kopkop College are not content to be simple down-trodden housewives any more.

"They do not want to join the growing ranks of single mothers destined for a shackled life. They want to be doctors, chief executive officers, engineers, pilots and scientists. They want to share the benefits of higher standards in life.

"My philosophy and conviction is that women must learn the basic arts of business practices to do well in business," Ms Kopkop said.

PNG HIV/AIDS Care Foundation

2010-02-28T14:54:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

THE CHAIRMAN of a newly established NGO has called on the Government to seriously take stock of its efforts so far in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Peter Tulu Aro, Chairman of the PNG HIV/AIDS Care Foundation alleges that the Government pumped millions into the National Aids Council Secretariat (NACS) for its 'Condom Awareness Campaign' and it has not stemmed the tide of new infections.

He said the current media debate over the efficacy of condom use as a safeguard against infection reveal that more people were probably infected because of belief in this fallacy.

Tulu said because of the lack of basic services in rural areas urban drift was on the increase and this has led to the increase in prostitution. "These people are really vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections," he alleged.

Tulu has further called on resource companies and big business houses to support small NGOs, such as PNG HIV/AIDS Care Foundation and Churches to combat the AIDS epidemic. "These companies have taken so much of our resources and it is time they showed some civic responsibility and help in this fight," he said.

He said his foundation will concentrate its activities to the Southern Highlands and Hela Provinces." Every human being regardless of how you die or what they die of deserves a decent burial. We intend to look after HIV/AIDS victims and assist them become useful members of community," he said.

He said AIDS sufferers were stigmatized and there were instances were some had been buried alive. "We will need all the help we can get to ensure that everything humanely possible to ease the suffering of these people is done," he said.

Villages not paid yet for destroyed cocoa

2010-02-28T14:51:00.000+10:00

By ALPHONSE BARIASI

OVER 10,000 villagers in the Kamkabe area of Bogia District in Madang Province are still awaiting payment for their cocoa trees destroyed to stop the spread of the cocoa pod borer disease in mid 2008.

Waiting time for a K1.3 million payment for the destroyed crop has now extended into a second year and still there is no firm commitment from former Agriculture Minister and Bogia MP John Hickey and Department of Agriculture and Livestock Secretary Anton Benjamin.

The cocoa pod borer (CPB) disease was first discovered in the Boroi village in April 2008 and later at Kayan, Gamai, Damur, Garik and Kabuk villages.

Upon discovering the disease which was by then also prevalent in the Gazelle Peninsular, government agencies decided to cut down all diseased trees as well as all other cocoa trees and indigenous fruit trees.

In the process, 146,000 cocoa trees were chopped down and the villages' primary source of income was taken away.

They were promised:

* K1.3 million compensation for the loss of trees (to plot owners) and loss of business (to fermentry owners);

* Replacement hybrid seedlings for all trees cut;

* School fee assistance in 2008 and 2009; and

* Medical supplies to aid posts in the area.

The K1.3 million was arrived at by counting the number of trees and the number of bags produced by each cocoa dryer in a year.

All these were to have been settled in a year but that never happened. A submission was made to the DAL office in Madang and after more than a year, no response by concerned government agencies was given to the Kamkabe people.

The villagers confronted their local MP and Agriculture Minister John Hickey on two separate occasions in the electorate and he told them to "go see Anton Benjamin (DAL Secretary) because I don't know anything about it."

Following a meeting of villagers, spokesman Bobbies Karbain took it upon himself to travel to Port Moresby to see the Secretary.

Mr Karbain arrived in the city on January 28 but has been given a run around by the Secretary's office and had to spend almost a month in Port Moresby and was finally able to see Mr Benjamin on February 23.

Mr Karbain had also been to the Prime Minister's office which in turn directed the DAL to address the villagers' claim.

"I have no relatives here but fortunately, a friend of mine has provided me accommodation. I was living on bread and water these weeks," Mr Karbain told this reporter.

Secretary Benjamin said he was aware of the villagers demand for payment for loss of income. He also told Mr Karbain that there was money allocated for it but the process to get it was long and slow.

Mr Karbain has been directed to consult the provincial DAL office in Madang to follow up on the case.

He said however, that there was also an option to go to court over the matter if the department was slow or reluctant to pay.

"We have approached our MP who was Minister for Agriculture but he was not very helpful; maybe he took us as simple, ignorant people," said Mr Karbain.

The Secretary's office did not respond to questions regarding the matter faxed to his office on Wednesday.

Havelawa dismisses K6m contract allegations

2010-02-28T14:45:00.000+10:00

THE Acting Director of National Libraries and Archives has dismissed allegations by one-man, self-styled Millennium Governance Organization that it illegally engaged a security firm at the cost of six million kina annually without following proper procurement procedures as stipulated under the Public Finance Management Act.

This week, the Acting Director of Libraries and Archives, Jacob Havelawa said, the security firm in question was engaged as a matter of urgency after guards of the previous security firm engaged were believed to have stolen from the Waigani Library.

Mr. Havelawa said based on the quotations received, the security firm currently engaged is the cheapest - at K1.179 million. However, he did not say who the other security firms were who bided for the contract.

The Office of Libraries and Archives is still in the process of completing proper tender documentation before tenders are called in compliance of Public Finance Management Act.

Government must compensate for Tari town land - mayor

2010-02-28T14:43:00.000+10:00

By GENO NAU-BUGA

THE GOVERNMENT must seriously address compensation demands by the customary landowners of the Tari before further developments associated with LNG project in Southern Highlands province take shape in the town.

Tari town mayor, Ken Arawi pointed this out recently following what he termed as 'outstanding demands' by the Tari "papagraun" to the government for the occupation of their land.

Mr Arawi said landowners from nine council wards in Tari urban council have submitted their demand for land compensation to the government but are still waiting for a response.

The nine council wards in Tari urban include Piripu, Papiali, Kikita 2, Tulupate, Tan 1, Tan 2, Kupari, Pai and Kikita 1.

Mr Arawi stated that Tari town would be the centre of all business activities as well as the host of major service facilities such as the airport, banks, hospital, educational institutions and even other major infrastructure.

However, with the issue of compensation demands by the landowners still to be addressed by the government, it poses a threat to the future.

"To avoid disruptions to services in Tari town, especially those associated with LNG, the government must seriously look into the matter regarding compensation to Tari town customary landowners," Mr Arawi said.

Mr Arawi clarified that although the local people from within the Tari area would not be immediate beneficiaries to the LNG project, their land is where the township is and where business activities would be concentrated.

He further stated that the argument by the local landowners of the Tari town land is that their fathers and forefathers were not properly compensated by the colonial administrators or government representatives during that era.

"People still argue that they be paid compensation for the land Tari town occupies," Mr Arawi said.

"They claimed their fathers and forefathers were paid with steel axes, pieces of cloth and salt, which in modern times are absolutely very less in monetary value," he added.

The mayor did not specify the amount demanded by the landowners.

Democracy at stake: Olga

2010-02-28T14:32:00.000+10:00

By ALPHONSE BARIASI

A SECOND court-ordered recount of ballots for the Western Highlands regional seat seriously undermines the integrity of the government agency responsible for the conduct of fair elections, the Electoral Commission.

The recount also raises suspicions of foul play by those entrusted to conduct the election, Western Highlands Governor Tom Olga said on Friday.

"Our democracy is at stake," the governor said.

Governor Olga was commenting on the electronic recount of votes for the Western Highlands regional seat that commenced at the National Research Institute in Port Moresby on Wednesday.

The recount centre was closed to the public but independent observers were allowed to witness the proceedings.

Mr Olga said at the press conference that it appeared from the election petition by rival and former governor Paias Wingti that the Electoral Commission and its laid down procedures had been hijacked by corrupt officials.

He described the election petition and the resultant recounts now into the third year an abuse of processes and a waste of tax-payer's money.

"As a matter of principle, I accept the election petition. We have gone through the process fairly. Now we are going beyond the limits "(referring to a second recount when a first National Court ordered recount had already declared him winner).

He said the problem was not with the Electoral Commission but corrupt individuals who had been entrusted to do a honest job.

"People are taking advantage of the processes...this is a real threat to society. Now there is another recount. What does that signal to other democracies like Australia, New Zeland and the United States?"

In a letter to the returning officer for the Western Highlands seat, Mr Olga analysed the results of the 2007 election results and the recount of 2008 and stated why believes the results were manipulated.

"Despite the fact that total allowable ballot papers for 2007 were intact when counted in 2008, notable discrepancies were recorded in the elimination process. This leaves only one explanation and that is, unscrupulous officials may have manipulated the elimination process by playing around with ballot papers or figures to advance one candidate and disadvantage the other. Whatever it is, it will be determined in the second recount..."

"I'm not worried about the outcome; I am concerned about the integrity of the system. This has gone too far."

The protracted election petition and the void in political leadership at the Mt Hagen provincial headquarters have also derailed government service delivery in the province.

Mr Olga, however, said despite the absence of permanent political and civil service leadership in the province, Western Highlanders have coped well.

"The people are resilient; they work for themselves."

The recount results will be declared by the National Court after March 14.

Mayor calls for total liquor ban in Tari

2010-02-28T14:27:00.000+10:00

By GENO NAU-BUGA

THE COMPLETE break-down of law and order in Tari, the proposed capital of Hela province is mostly related to liquor, according to the town mayor Ken Arawi.

The town mayor in an exclusive interview with Sunday Chronicle, has called on elected national members of parliament (MPs) from Hela region demanding a total ban on the sales of liquour in Tari town.

Moreover, the mayor has called for a meeting where the Members of Parliament from Hela region, local level government presidents and even the developer ExxonMobil would engage in a round-table discussion to seriously look into the problem and other related matters and discuss how best they could solve them.

"Law and order has completely deteriorated in Tari, most of is related to liquor" Mr Arawi said.

"Beer is sold openly in market places and people are drinking public and are later cutting each other without any care at all," he stated.

He even mentioned that liquor is sold publicly as food items in public places. Moreover, people are drinking openly and without any care. It is from there that arguments over petty issues begin and fights erupts which usually result in people being wounded or killed.

He stressed that with the LNG developments taking shape in the Hela region, the problem could become worse if the issue of liquor is not seriously addressed.

A prominent youth leader from Kupari council ward in Tari, Timon Henry, in supporting the town mayor, stated that proper awareness needs to be carried out in the Hela region, especially in the LNG project areas.

He also called on the Hela transitional government and all Hela MPs and the developer ExxonMobil to immediately allocate funding for the awareness.

"I want law and order to be maintained because the situation if definitely getting out of hand," Mr Arawi said.

He also stressed that police in Tari must be seen to be doing their job. This is because most of the time the mobile unit based there is usually seen to be working for the interests of the LNG developer and not overseeing the general law and order issues in Tari town.

The mayor has therefore called on the police hierarchy at Konedobu to deploy more police personnel to Tari

Mr Arawi has also appealed to all chairmen of resource areas of Juha, Hides, Anogre and the pipe-line areas to assist, a million each from the respective parties to help combat law and order problems in Tari town.

In clarifying on the call for funding, Mr Arawi said because Tari town will be the headquarter of the Hela region, most of the services and facilities would be built in the township.

Mr Arawi said the funding is to assist set up a work-force or committee to be resourced with office facilities and vehicle to help in making awareness to help curb law and order problems in Tari.

Status report on road safety launced

2010-02-28T14:20:00.000+10:00

By OMAE KOAKE

It has been revealed in a recent road safety report that generally people between the ages of 10 and 40 years die as victims of road accidents in the country.

Most of these deaths are caused through excessive speeding, alcohol and drugs use, fatigue, vechicle factors, defects in road signs and simple carelessness of the drivers.

It is sad to note that most of these tragic accidents on record occur on national highways and major roads, a situation the National Government notes as a matter of seriousness. Statistics showed that 39 per cent of deaths were pedestrians, 10.6 per cent drivers of four wheel drives, 49.3 per cent passengers of four wheel drives and 0.8 per cent cyclists. traffic accidents in the report showed 39 per The proportion of the Road Traffic Deaths statistics shows Pedestrians 39%, Drivers of 4WD vehicles 10.6%, Passengers of 4WD 49.3% and cyclists 0.8%.

In a seminar held on Friday at the Granville Motel, the 2008 Global Status Report on Road Safety in Papua New Guinea was presented by the Departments of Health and Police. The Road Safety Survey was facilitated by the two departments in 2008 with the assistance from stakeholders which are the Motor Vehicle Insurance Ltd, St. Johns , National Road Safety Council, Traffic and the Land Transport Division.

The purpose of the seminar was to launch the Global Road Safety Report and hand over the report to the Works and Transport Minister.

In the seminar, the National Road Safety Council CEO, Frank Aku, said according to the revealed statistics, there is a serious problem in the country regarding road safety. He said that there were road safety laws in the country for the last 20 years or so but no one or agency is seriously enforcing them.

He said that his establishment is trying it's best to enforce the rules and strongly urged other partners and sakeholders to do likewise. " It is time now for all partners and stakeholders to work in partnership and constantly collaborate to decrease the road accidents," said Mr Aku.

" Those who register vehicles, issue licences and enforce the laws must collaborate now for the interest of the lives of our people or else all matters regarding transportation would be done corruptively."

There was also suggestions made to build more over-head bridges for major cities, station traffic lights near major schools, separate lanes for cyclists and introduce sub-ways and train systems among others to decrease road accidents as much as possible.

Iwei questions RESI funds use

2010-02-28T14:17:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

THE MEMBER for Telefomin, Hon. Peter Iwei has called on the Department of National Planning to fully explain the use of the RESI Funds.

Mr. Iwei wants the Department to reveal how the funds were used and the specific schools and provinces that benefited from the funds.

Speaking at a media conference in support of fellow PDM colleague, Obura-Wonenara's John Boito's call for an explanation to the awarding of K4 million to a dubious contractor for maintenance of Aiyura National High School infrastructure, the outspoken government backbencher said question must be asked on who had manipulated the system. "Is it the politicians or the bureaucrats? Most of us put in submissions after submissions and ended up with nothing," he said.

He said as the mandated State Leader representing the 40, 000 plus people of Telefomin he is entitled to some answers. We must not let this matter rest. There must be a proper investigation carried out into the use of these funds. Why some MPs got more than their fair share while the rest of us missed out, he said.

He said Telefomin High School, one of only two high schools in his electorate should have been considered for funding under this program because it is really run down.

"Instead I had to assist the school with K20, 000 from K300, 000 budgeted under my district's Education sector allocation. A further K30, 000 was paid to UPNG for students from my electorate," he revealed.

He said the K300, 000 was for Telefomin students studying in the various educational institutions throughout the country.

PNG's New Finance and Treasury Minister Tipped

2010-02-22T13:39:00.000+10:00

...Timothy Bonga likely to replace Pruaitch

By TERENI KENS

WHILE Papua New Guinea awaits the new cabinet announcement by Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare in a major reshuffle to be conducted soon as promised recently, there are indications that moves have already been made.

Member for Nawae and National Alliance Momase die hard Timothy Bonga is tipped to take on the Finance and Treasury ministry - the portfolio once held by the party's deputy leader from the Momase bloc, Patrick Pruiatch.

Reliable sources close to government say Mr Bonga was happy about the appointment but could not comment when contacted last night as it has not been officially announced.

It is not known whether Mr Pruiatch will be given another portfolio but in recent weeks serious allegations of misconduct in office laid against him by the Ombudsman Commission could have caused him his job. It is understood Prime Minister's son Arthur Somare is likely to take over the deputy leadership reigns for the NA Momase faction.

Similarly, the NA deputy leadership tussle and in-fighting in the New Guinea Islands recently has seen a major rift and calls to dump Minister Tiensten over allegations of misconduct in office by island leaders could have the Prime Minister's backing in order to uphold his commitment in fighting corruption in the country.

Bougainville regional MP Fidelis Semoso has been tipped to act on the ministry until such time a permanent appointment is made.

The re-elected Works, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Don Polye and deputy NA leader from the Highlands faction is hinted for the Deputy Prime Ministers post, while his counterpart from the Southern region Sir Puka Temu gets back to his Mining, Lands and Physical planning portfolio.

The move could see a split in the huge Works, Transport and Civil Aviation ministry. The Civil Aviation ministry is expected to merge with Tourism and Culture and would be administered by Minister Charles Abel who is tipped to remain.

Heads will also roll for several other non-performing ministers including Inter-government Relations Minister Job Pomat, Health Minister Sasa Zibe, Agriculture Minister John Hickey, Labour Minister Mark Maipakai, Police Minister Sani Rambi and speaker Jeffery Nape.

With all the chaos experienced within the NA led coalition government, the opposition leader Sir Mekere Morauta has reportedly said they are intact and he is more than ready to change the government, but awaits the Supreme Court decision on the validity of the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates before making a move.

Meanwhile, certain MPs from the Opposition have alleged an Asian mining giant has given a senior government minister huge sums of money (K40 million) to conduct what they termed as "under the table deal" in a bid to muster numbers on the government side.

The MPs said such huge monies should be put to go use rather then playing dirty politics and will be on alert to expose such corrupt practices when they are confronted.

Papua New Guinea Forest Minister refutes reports

2010-02-22T13:31:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

PNG FOREST Minister, Belden Namah, has refuted reports by the Public Accounts Committee that K100 million disappeared without trace over a three-year period and that more than K8 million in royalty payment vouchers for the years 2001-2004 and 2007 were missing.

Minister Namah, responding to last Thursday's local media reports on the missing millions in the two dailies, told reporters that, it was unfair for the National Forests Authority and its Management to be ridiculed by the press when, the matter had already been death with in 2008.

He said the issue of K100 million 'lost' or missing from the NFA is not a new issue. The Post- Courier first reported the matter on Tues, Sept 23, 2008. As far as the PNGFA is concerned, it is a dead issue.

"The MD provided explanations to re-state the facts on the next day in the same newspaper. And the fact is the K100 million is an aggregate or total of the NFA's National Budget Appropriations for the five years from 2000 to 2005,"the Minister stressed.

He stated the Auditor General (by its appointed auditors, Tengdui & Associates of Mt. Hagen) had audited the financial accounts for the five years and that all payment vouchers and records are kept by the PNGFA in accordance with the requirements of the Public Finances (Management) Act 1995.

Mr Namah said if such amounts of money had been pilfered or mismanaged, the entire NFA would have had serious operational problems.

He said, however, the Forests Authority was one of the most transparent organisations in the country.
"We have carried out major reforms in the industry and have developed one of the best Forestry Management Acts in the world and we should be commended," the Minister stressed.

He said Parliamentary Committees and any other group sensationalising issues should be mindful of the use of words such as 'misappropriation' as it harms the reputation of qualified people.

"These Committees must realise that they have to present their reports to Parliament before they can present it to the public," he said.

On the missing K8 million in royalty payment vouchers, Minister Namah said the process for collecting and accounting for royalties involves not only forests officers but landowners as well.

Minister Namah said the landowners as the resource owners know their basic right to receive royalty at the agreed intervals and they themselves ensure that the system is effective.

"It acts as a check and balance and nobody, not even the FA would mismanage these funds as the landowners would shut down logging operations if such were true," he stressed.

Five State entities did well by PAC

2010-02-22T13:27:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

A STATE enterprise which went to interim liquidation in 2001 has bounced back, not only making profits but meeting all the requirements of the Public Finance Management Act.

Post PNG was one of five entities commended and recognized by the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in its first hearing for 2010 on Wednesday.

Post PNG managing director Peter Maiden said, "Indeed, the failure of the Post PNG Board of Directors and Management to provide Financial Accounts on a timely basis for audit by the Auditor General's Office was the significant factor in Post PNG going into Interim Liquidation effective 23 August 2001."

Mr Maiden said a critical success factor in the performance and compliance of an entity are the governance processes.

"Key to good governance is the preparation of the annual financial accounts and their audit each year by the Auditor General's Office," the managing director told the hearing.

The other institutions recognized were the hospitals of Goroka and Alotau, the Bank of PNG and the Institute of Public Affairs.

These are five of 1,000 government institutions that the PAC had inquired into. The PAC also commended the Auditor general's office for their efforts in auditing the government's institutes.

Plus for gender, minus for MDGs: Clark

2010-02-22T13:25:00.000+10:00

PAPUA New Guinea is heading for the right direction in having 20 appointed women representatives in parliament.

Former New Zealand Prime Minister and now United Nations Development Program Administrator Helen Clark gave this commendation at a gathering dominated by women on Monday in the Parliament State Function room.

However, on the contrary the country is not ready to meet the Millennium Development Goals.
Miss Clark said the appointment of women representatives and is going in line with the world's vision of having 30 per cent of the parliaments represented by women.

She said PNG may not be that close by 17 percent though that is good and the approach is one many countries in the world are taking to address the gender equality issue.

At the inauguration of the National Women's Forum on Equality and Participation for Women; a better Future for Papua New Guinea, which Miss Clark co-chaired with the Minister for Community Development, Dame Carl Kidu, the discussion focused on the need to increase women's voice and participation in politics as a critical means to promote democracy, advocate gender equality and achieve sustainable and inclusive development.

She said women in decision-making has been a critical issue in PNG against a backdrop of high level of gender-based violence, coupled with high rates of HIV among women and girls between the ages of 15-29.
PNG has only one woman parliamentarian and efforts are underway to reserve 22 seats for women in Parliament.

Meanwhile, on the MDG's the United Nations general assembly will host the World Summit on the MDGs this September. PNG would not be on track to achieve any of them.

Ms Clark said said with the resource development in the country, PNG can make huge changes in human development.

She told the gathering that the UN Development program could assist where possible.
Miss Clark and her delegation left Monday afternoon.

Sepik ready Expo

2010-02-22T13:23:00.000+10:00

Words and picture by CYRIL GARE

THESE 10 East Sepik women represent SWIT or Sepik Women In Trade who this week were caught preparing their ID cards at Wirui Press in Wewak. They were preparing to travel to Lae, Morobe province next week to participate at the PNG Women in Business Expo to be held between Feb 26 and27.

SWIT led by East Sepik Provincial Advisor for Commerce, Elizabert Kaprangi (pictured above back row), is one of the four East Sepik women groups that will travel to Lae. Other Sepik women groups include FOWIAD (Foundation for Women in Agriculture and Development) led by Ms. Monica Otto, Mrs. Sumanop will lead East Sepik Florist and Horticulture group while Mrs. Donna Hukaku Balamus will lead the Sepik Meri Self Reliance Business Foundation.

PNGWIB President, Janet Sape told NBC national radio that Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare will officially open the Expo which will be hosted by Morobe Governor, Luther Wenge.

Mrs. Sape said the expo aims at promoting business ideas and opportunities for Papua New Guinean women and to raise consciousness and exhibit women skills and talents in the various products and activities displayed and build confidence in women as equally important partners in nation building.

Yama threatens to sue newspaper

2010-02-22T12:55:00.000+10:00

Papua New Guinea businessman and former politician Peter Yama has directed his lawyers to assess a possible defamation law suit against the Post-Courier for publishing alleged damaging statements against him in two consecutive front pages this week.

Mr Yama said from Madang that in what seemed to be a peculiar professional exploit rarely seen elsewhere, he was made to look like a villain in a genuine process of law that involved his fight to gain what has been awarded to his company by the highest courts on the land, one National Court and two Supreme Courts.

Yama Security Services (YSS), a subsidiary in the Yama Group of Companies, had successfully taken out a claim against MVIL to pay a judgment debt owed for a breach of contract in Jan 1999. However, Bank South Pacific, where MVIL has its account, has refused to pay the judgment debt of nearly K7.6 million plus interest and cost and instead want to take the money to cover a part of a questionable figure of K35 million loan which they claim the Yama Group owes to BSP.

Mr Yama had successfully laid a complaint with police alleging conspiracy to pervert the course of justice by certain MVIL and BSP officers. While three senior BSP officers had been charged, police were working to interview PNG Law Society President Kerenga Kua and Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited managing director Dr John Mua. But it was alleged that the duo fled to Chimbu, resulting in the Post-Courier stories, implying that Mr Yama was involved in claims that K100,000 was posted on the heads of Dr Mua and Mr Kua.

It was also alleged that Dr Mua and Mr Kua returned to Port Moresby after their representative, Blake Dawson Lawyers, successfully took out National Court orders which granted leave to apply for judicial review of the decision of Waigani District Court magistrate Fred Tomo made on Jan 15 to issue warrants of arrest of the two alleging that they conspired together and with John Maddison, Robin Flemming, Mary Joans, and James Kruse to defeat the course of justice by defying a legitimate Supreme Court order of 2000 in ordering MVIL to pay Yama Security Services an amount of K7,303,115.85 but instead the said money was diverted to Deloilte Touch Tohmatsu as an agent of BSP.

The court also ordered that an order be issued to stay the magistrate's decision of Jan 15 until determination of the substantive proceedings.

Mr Yama said the Post-Courier passionately reported about the threats on Mr Kua and Dr Mua over their handling of the case.

He described the articles as a deliberate and calculated attempt to discredit him and tarnish his image and reputation.

Mr Yama said he had been a policeman for 10 years while his wife Agatha Yama, who had also been one of the first PNG policewomen, have both been in businessman for well over 30 years.

He said during these years from a humble beginning till today, he has never set out to break the law, or kill or injure other people in connection with his work or business.

"How could I place K100,000 on somebody's head when I have been on the winning side in the court decisions? I have been fighting these cases for over 10 years and now I am just happy to receive favourable decisions. How could I possibly be upset and angry and want to take somebody's life? These allegations are just baseless, unfounded with no substance and clearly defamed my name," Mr Yama said.

He said that because he is going against the big "fishes" or the elite group who have been collaborating and conspiring for far too long in business. That is why their friends are speaking out for them.
"It's not like me coming the hard way to be what I am," Mr Yama said.

Mr Yama said the news articles have done great damage to him. They portrayed him as a man who was out to kill someone. They portrayed him as someone who would place a bounty on the head of another person, and hire a gang to go after and kill them.

"The imputations are that I am a bad person, someone who will stop at nothing to get what I want.
"My integrity and reputation have been seriously damaged by these articles. I and my family have been ashamed. I cannot accept this. I have done nothing to deserve this. The newspaper and the perpetrators of these articles have no basis to publish the stories," Mr Yama said.

Mr Yama said he has given notice to the Post-Courier last Friday to apologise or the paper would be sued for defamation.

K50 million to upgrade Hoskins airport

2010-02-22T12:50:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE National Executive Council meeting in Kimbu has approved K50 million to upgrade the Hoskins airport and three major roads.

The NEC also appointed three chief executive officers for three institutions and a new board for the Madang Hospital.

Works, Civil Aviations and Transport Minister Don Polye told this paper from Kimbe on Friday that the CEOs include a new Air safety Commissioner, an administrator for Milne Bay province and a CEO for Kimbe hospital.

While details of the other individuals were not ready, the Air Safety Commissioner is veteran pilot, David Inau.

This paper understands Mr Inau, can fly both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.

Meanwhile, Mr Polye said the K50 million would be drawn down from a K1.8 billion loan facility with the Asian development Bank.

He said Kimbe is one of the major tourism destinations and the airport is given priority and work will begin this year.

The Minister said he had a consultative meeting with the governor and the provincial executive council and landowners of the site of the Hoskins airport.

The roads he said are the Kimbe-Kandrian, North-South in Talasea and the New Britain Highway linking the East and West New Britain provinces.

Mr Polye also said work is being done now on three bridges that were washed away by floods between Biala and Kimbe.

He said it would cost about one to three million kina. The NEC in Kimbe ended on Thursday and Ministers returned on Friday.

Opposition leader provides school desks

2010-02-22T12:47:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

OPPOSITION leader and member for Moresby Northwest, Sir Mekere Morauta secured K8 million from an outside source to build more classrooms, teachers' houses and ablution blocks for schools in his electorate.

He revealed this whilst delivering 104 desks to Hohola Demonstration Primary School last Thursday. The desks valued at K31,000 were handed over to the school in a short presentation at the school ground. They were purchased through his District Services Improvement Program funds approved by the Joint District Budget Priorities Committee (JDBPC) last November.

Sir Mekere said that more than 5,000 desks would be presented to schools who have requested for his assistance. The JDBPC approved K1.5 million to purchase 5,000 desks for schools in the member's electorate. Hohola Demonstration became the first recipient of this educational assistance this week.

Other schools that will receive similar assistance will be St Paul's Primary, Morata Primary, Boreboa Primary, Carr Memorial Adventist, Sacred Heart Elementary & Primary, Kay Primary, June Valley, Eki Vaki, Waigani, St Michaels, Ted Diro, Ororo, Tokarara, St John's Primary and Red Cross Special Educational School.

"I want to see every child in my electorate to have a desk. Education is the future of this country and our children deserve decent learning environment. Education is my priority," Sir Mekere said.

"My plan is also to build more teachers' houses, classrooms and ablution blocks for identified schools in the electorate," the opposition leaders said.

"A plan to secure K8 million from an outside source will cater for this," he said.

He said education was the most important investment and urged the students to work hard.
"You owe it to your parents and yourselves to work hard. You have a very long way to go but step by step," he said.

Head girl, Ethel Doruba and head teacher Homoka Boge commended Sir Mekere for taking time off from his busy schedule to make the presentations.

Kerema High badly needs funds to remain open

2010-02-22T12:39:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

ONE of the oldest high schools in the country, and one that has produced some of the country's top brains is in dire straits for funds to remain open.

Kerema Coronation High School which produced former Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta, late Governor General and first Papua New Guinea writer Sir Vincent Eri and others was condemned by health authorities and needs more than K5 million to maintain its infrastraucture which has been falling apart since.

According to the board chairman Jack Narrie pictured above, health authorities condemned the school around October and issued eviction notices when a female student fell from through the rotting floors and sustained severe injuries.
Mr Narrie told reporters on Friday that the school which was opened when Queen Elizabeth was coronated in 1956 has never had any maintenance since and the buildings are falling apart.

The Chairman said the transportation of materials is becoming a nightmare with shipping cost going upwards of K50,000 on charters as there is no scheduled shipping into Kerema.

The Provincial Government gave K350,000 and committed another K300, 000 and four classrooms.
Mr Narrie commended the provincial government for the help which he said was the first time ever for any government to give any such amounts.

However, the school would still need more to fully maintain the old buildings and or replace them.
He also told the reporters that four grade nine classrooms had since collapsed and the new classrooms would replace them.

The chairman said there is no science lab for a school which is situated right in the township of Kerema and the school needs one as science is a core subject.

He has called on parents to understand the dilemma he is going through and called for support from every person that would want to contribute.

The school he said could not close because it is the only centrally located school.
He also announced that the school has started classes last Monday, a week or two later than the rest and called for students to return if they were at home.

Diplomatic corps reassures Secretary Mawe

2010-02-22T12:31:00.000+10:00

MEMBERS of the Port Moresby based diplomatic corps recently met with the newly appointed Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade Michael Mawe at a luncheon hosted by the Apostolic Nuncio at the Ela Beach Hotel.

Dean of the diplomatic corp and Solomon Islands High Commissioner, Bernard Bata'anisia, said the foreign diplomats were deeply honoured to have Secretary Michael Mawe as their guest of honour.

During the luncheon meeting, the diplomatic corps took the opportunity of exchanging views on issues of common interest between their respective countries and organizations and Papua New Guinea.

He added that the diplomatic corps also used the occasion to congratulate Ambassador Mawe on his new assignment as the Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

They also pledged to work closely with the Secretary, his Department and the Government of Papua New Guinea in advancing their bilateral and multilateral relations.

Secretary Mawe also assured the diplomats of his keen interest and that of his department to work closely with the diplomatic corps in advancing their bilateral and multilateral relations.

Ambassador Mawe was PNG's ambassador to Japan before being appointed Secretary.

Girls secondary school closed indefinitely

2010-02-22T12:29:00.000+10:00

By PIUS MON

THE ONLY all girls secondary school in the Western Highlands province has been forced to close for an indefinite period after landowners demanded hefty compensation for the use of water.

Notre Dame Secondary school, a Catholic agency school was closed by the Archbishop Young of Mt. Hagen, this week after a round table discussion with the landowners and concerned education authorities in the province.

Landowners from the vicinity of the secondary school have demanded for compensation from the school for the use of a water well in the last 42 years.

The main water valve has been turned off two weeks ago, leaving the school and other facilities in the area without water posing a health hazard for the students and staff.

Bishop Young said the Church was providing essential service to that part of the province and if people could not appreciate the tremendous contributions the church was giving them then it was better for him to withdraw the services.

He says compensation will be the last resort but in the meantime the church and education authorities in the province will work around the clock to seek other avenues to fix the problem.

Bishop Young added that they had to close the school and send the 700 plus students home, adding that there was no water into the school and this has posed a health hazard for both the students and the staff.

Bishop Young said the only way to let the government listen to this problem was to withdraw such services, adding that the Catholic Church, as partners in development, does not have any money to meet the compensation demand.

The downhearted bishop also said that other facilities such as a primary school, a health clinic and an elementary school were also closed down as they all come under the Catholic agency and are all affected by the situation.

Meanwhile, the assistant secretary for Education Division, Mr. Hans Gima expressed dissatisfaction over the way landowners have taken up the matter with the school administration and the agency.

A frustrated Mr Gima said students have a right to education and such action by disgruntled landowners will now affect the future of the innocent students.

He also acknowledge the partnership role that churches play in providing basic services such as education, health and others in remote areas where the government cannot reach, adding that the education department supports the move in the closure of the school while they work on other options to settle the matter.

Mr. Gima urged the staff to remain in the school premises while the situation is dealt with by authorities concerned until some solutions are reached.

Sir J warns of revolt

2010-02-22T12:26:00.000+10:00

NEW IRELAND Governor Sir Julius Chan has warned of a revolt by the People of New Ireland, if the National Government continues to strangle its advancement, by holding back hundreds of millions of kina, which rightfully belongs to the province by legally binding agreement.

Fed up with the National Government's attitude, Sir Julius announced in Kavieng on Friday the New Ireland Provincial Government was referring to seven of the nation's top public servants to the Ombudsman Commission for insubordination and defiant disregard of Political Leadership directions as the province steps up its "Give Back Our Money" campaign.

And Sir Julius has called on all New Irelanders to support the moves by the Provincial Government to seek all legal avenues available to direct the National Government to restore their rightful benefits.

More than K400 million in share benefits under the Lihir Mine Memorandum of Agreement, much of which have been pre-assigned to fund major economic, social and infrastructure development projects and programs under the Malagan Declaration are being withheld by the National Government.

Noting protracted power outages in Kavieng, strained medical service and government cash flow constraints since the start of the New Year, a disgusted Sir Julius directed his anger at the Prime Minister, the relevant Government ministers and the senior public servants "accusing them of negligence, lying, misappropriation, misconduct and corruption."

The New Ireland Governor further accused the National Government and the state bureaucracy of deliberate sabotage of projects clearly planned and outlined in the Malagan Declaration and the last three provincial budgets.

"We cannot allow the National Government to continue to insult and exploit our people. No more must we allow government ministers and bureaucrats to divert and misappropriate our inheritance," he said.

"These people are in direct violation of the National Goals and Principles of derivation in forcing us to our knees to beg them for what is rightfully ours, derived from our soil. How can they in their right mind, be so inconsiderate in not remembering the suffering we have gone through; the cultural destruction, increased social disruption and invasion of our rights to peaceful existence that once exist."

The Provincial Government has consistently over the last three years petitioned the National Government for the funds to be released as the planned major projects to impact the province's development and the lives of the people are being delayed beyond acceptable limits.

The Prime Minister himself promised during the an official visit of the province, a year ago in February 2009 publicly announced before the Provincial Assembly that he will honour and release K92 million from the outstanding Lihir MOA funds to support the province's budget to allow work to commence on major development and infrastructural impact projects. These projects are incorporated in the Lihir MOA but have been neglected since 1997."

Sir Julius pointed out that while Sir Michael did in fact direct the various arms of government to facilitate the payment of K92 million of the 14 years outstanding benefits, he and his government must accept culpability for the diversion and misappropriation of the New Ireland people's money to buy the expensive government toys such as the personal Falcon Jet and other dubious expenditure.

"Sir Michael's failure to deliver on his promise resulted in a deficit of K65 million in the 2009 provincial budget. This is political assassination of the worst kind. I have never isolated any province or groups during my reign. In fact the Sepik provinces had received special consideration in my time from roads to schools, agriculture and health services. Why now should he choose to belittle New Ireland, the hen that lays the eggs?

The National Government's attitude is tantamount to direct violation of equal distribution and derivation of wealth. And I am calling their integrity and competence into question under section 27.4 of the National Constitution. It is a smear of the constitution, it is wrong of virtue and creates a vacuum of suspicion and incitement, pushing the people to start thinking of their future in a united, dominated political entity where the small are discarded and their wealth robbed."

"I have lost all patience trying to follow the law. We abide by the constitutional laws but our patience is running thin. What more can the provincial government and my people do? We are exhausted being treated like small kids knowing we produce over K600 million each year for PNG.

"As one of the founders of this nation, I am forced to agonize over the thought of autonomy or even total separation. Most certainly, small provinces like New Ireland will never have the democratic strength to reach its destiny.

"We need to govern ourselves. Never doubt that New Ireland can stand-alone. We will be ten times better."

Catholic Church says no to condoms

2010-02-22T12:23:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

CONDOMS have the highest failure rates when it comes to contraceptives and remain the biggest cause in the spread of HIV and AIDS - that's the firm official stand of the Catholic Church.

In a Pontificate sanctioned book, the Case Against Condoms, President of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Alfonso Cardinal Lopez Trujilo said: "The Catholic church has repeatedly criticised programs promoting condoms as a totally effective and sufficient means of AIDS Prevention. The different Bishop's Conferences all over the world have expressed their concern regarding this problem."

According to Dr. Ligaya Acosta of the Human Life International, condoms have 15- 25 percent failure rates in preventing HIV and AIDS.

"The HIV virus is 450% smaller than the sperm. So even if sperms cannot pass through the holes in the condom, the HIV virus can easily pass through because of its microscopic size," said Dr. Acosta.

"I am quite concerned because people, especially the young are misled when total protection seemingly offered to them, while in fact there is no such total protection. Aware of the immensity of the pandemic, I want to speak out regarding the need not only to contain expansion of this pandemic but also, the need to prevent condom users from getting an infection that they previously thought was impossible to get, and which until now has had lethal consequences," said Cardinal Lopez in his book.

This stance was again drummed home to the Catholic Bishops of Papua New Guinea by their pro-life Missionaries to encourage Catholic congregations throughout the country to abstain from using condoms and instead be faithful their partners.

PNG's National Aids Council Secretariat has been advocating the use of condoms as a safety measure in containing the spread of HIV and AIDS. They expect that with the use of condoms, the HIV and AIDS figures were expected to plateau around the turn of this century.

However, latest NACS figures indicate that the number of new cases are on the increase with the rural population now highly vulnerable.

Ipatas says no to nepotism

2010-02-22T12:16:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

NEPOTISM should not be played at the expense of the lives of small people.

Enga Governor Peter Ipatas said this on Tuesday when calling the responsible authorities to immediately replace the Chief Executive officer of the Wabag General Hospital.

Mr Ipatas said, "I cannot compromise my people's health."

He made this direct call following a personal experience where there was allegedly no doctor on call to attend to his son who was sick last week after 10pm.

Mr Ipatas also said the CEO has not been working with and understanding the plight of doctors resulting in some of them leaving the province despite his government's efforts to provide cash incentives for them to remain in the province.

The Governor said the acting CEO is his relative and but the lives of the people are much more important than the employment and wellbeing of one relative.

Mr Ipatas said he made his position known for two years and he is now calling on the government to take action.

The Governor reveled that of the 12 doctors that started when the Wabag health center was given the hospital status, only three are remaining.

The man referred to as "action Governor" by his people said his government spent K3 million to have the health center upgraded and it has also been funding K250,000 as an incentive for the doctors since annually.
The governor said he has been following up with this for the last two years and nothing seems to have been done and all his calls have gone to deaf ears.

Mr Ipatas said his call is based on giving the best health services for his 300,000 people and stop them going to other neighboring provinces which may have associated problems.

He said he wants a medical doctor or a good administrator with sound management capabilities to run the hospital.

K6m security deal queried

2010-02-22T12:11:00.000+10:00

THE National Department of Education, through the Office of National Libraries and Archives, will be forking out about K6million each year to cover the cost of a 20-man security guard manning only two libraries in Port Moresby.

The security firm, owned by an expatriate, was engaged to look after the premises of the National Library office at Waigani and at Hohola for a monthly rate of half a million kina which equates to K6 million on an annual basis.

This means the security guards will be paid an hourly rate of K7, an amount almost similar to those in the mining industry. Standard security guards in PNG are paid about K1.50 to K2 per hour.

But the Acting Director of the National Libraries and Archives, Jacob Havelawa said that amount quoted has been inflated and wants those raising the allegations to see him personally at his office before going out to the media with such outrageous allegations.

He however did not give any figures of the actual amount of the contract.
"They said I received a 10 per cent cut from that security services outsourcing," said Mr Havelawa.
"This is outrageous. They must come to my office and we will talk it over," he said.

A self-styled Millennium Governance Organisation alleged that there was no proper tendering process to engage the said security firm.

According to the Public Finance Management Act, procurement of any goods and services above K300,000 must be tendered. But the Millennium Good Governance Organisation alleged that this procurement process has not been followed because the contract was awarded secretly.

The PNG Millenium Governance Organisation called on Minister of Education James Marape and Education Secretary Dr. Joseph Pagelio to investigate this engagement and terminate it immediately to safeguard the public funds that have been committed.

The Education Secretary's office has confirmed receipt of the allegations raised by the PNG Millennium Governance Organisation and have initiated internal investigations to check whether the allegations have any substance.

Sunday Chronicle physical checked at the Waigani Library saw security guards in their orange coloured uniforms with both the flags of PNG and the owner's country sewn side by side.

Debating the country's literacy rate

2010-02-22T12:08:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

THE debate on the country's literacy rate is a contentious issue among practitioners, development planners, policymakers and other stakeholders.

Depending on which side you are on - whether you believe that PNG has a high rate of illiteracy and that something must be done to address this issue or you believe Papua New Guineans are literate in one way or another.

Literacy, according to the universally accepted definition, is the ability to read and write and understand the written words in any language. One is considered literate when he/she can read and write and make sense of the written word while those who cannot do so, are considered illiterate.

Different sources give different rates of literacy in this country. The official figure which the National Literacy awareness Council Secretariat, the working arm of the National Literacy Awareness Council, wants to go by is 56.2 per cent. But a non-governmental organisation, PNG Education Advocacy Network (PEAN) believes the level of the country's literacy rate is much lower because interviewers during the last national census only asked the head of the household and did not verify with each occupant of a house. Backed with their survey results in parts of the country, PEAN argues that by being present in a classroom does not make a child literate as may be considered by the head of the household at that time.

Given these problems, stakeholders of literacy in this country are back on the drawing board. This time, trying to define what literacy means in PNG context before it is once again included in Census 2010. These stakeholders want to capture the meaning of literacy from a PNG perspective so that when interviewers of the national census go out to the provinces, they can get what it really means to be literate in a PNG context.

Willie Jonduo, the man at the helm of literacy in this country believes Papua New Guineans are literate without even knowing how to read and write. He said for instance, even though a villager does not know how to read and write, when a literate person shows him/her what buttons to press on a mobile phone to make a call or check his balance, that person can automatically know exactly what buttons to press without further assistance.

Mr Jonduo argues reading and writing alone cannot make one literate in PNG as Papua New Guineans have long observed times and seasons and without any written laws, they know exactly what they can do.

While concurring with Mr Jonduo, Dr Andrew Ikupu, the man who introduced the vernacular literacy in elementary schools, believes there is still need for reading and writing as a measure of literacy in PNG.

Dr. Ikupu said the level of literacy as defined by its universal definition is in urgent need now in PNG. He said, Papua New Guineans, especially the landowners in the PNG LNG impact areas are signing agreements without fully knowing and understanding their contents.

Dr Ikupu with help from Mr. Jonduo are spearheading moves to ensure all training providers in the country are properly monitored to ensure training programs deliver high quality technical and professional literate persons.

This will be done through a proposed National Literacy Institute. This proposed institute has received backing from UNESCO PNG office as well as the regional office in Apia, Western Samoa.

But despite being inbuilt into past census enumeration exercises, the level of government support towards improving the level of literacy to date is totally poor or non-existent. Dr Ikupu and Mr Jonduo believes the proposed National Literacy Institute will raise the profile of the efforts towards improving literacy - as defined by both universal meaning and the meaning in PNG context - to new levels.

Police association loses prime property

2010-02-22T12:03:00.000+10:00

By YEHIURA HRIEHWAZI - freelance reporter

THE PNG Police Association last Wednesday lost its bid to claim title over a prime property in Port Moresby worth more than K2 million at its current valuation.

The property is a four-bedroom high covenant house on Section 25 Lot 8, at Diho Avenue off Angau Drive. It was occupied by suspended Police Association President Robert Ali for the six years until his eviction from it last year by Industrial Registrar Mrs Helen Saleu.

Deputy Chief Justice Salika Gibbs granted orders sought by former Yangoru-Saussia MP John Jaminan that Registrar of Titles continue to probe how the police union claimed ownership of his house, Jaminan is allowed to talk with the Registrar of Titles - something Jaminan was not allowed to do under an order taken out by Police Association.

The court also ordered the police union to pay all legal costs of Jaminan's lawyers which amounts to about K20,000, but this was expected to be a problem because the cheque book was controlled by Industrial Registrar Saleu who was not party to the court case pursued by union secretary Clement Kanau without her approval.

Affidavits filed by Jaminan's lawyers showed that the title of the house was fraudulently transferred to the police association. A lawyer from the same law firm claimed to represent Jaminan and the police association in the transaction. Jaminan strenuously denied having any dealings with the law firm.

On realizing the situation, Henao lawyers which the police association hired to take carriage of the matter withdrew from the case on Wednesday and Jaminan's lawyer son, Chris Jaminan who was in court, assisted his father's counsel and sought Justice Gibbs' orders for the titles registrar to continue investigations into how the union for title to the house.

In about 2002, Jaminan entered into an arrangement to sell it to the late Mr Patrick Kolta - an accounting consultant - for K500,000. Mr Jaminan claimed he was paid only K150,000 and to this day, he said he was still owed K350,000.

Mr Jaminan was also seeking outstanding rentals of more than K577,000 including interests on arrears and the outstanding payments of the house if the police association wished to keep it.

However the union insisted that the house belong to 2500 members of the Police Association of PNG and the Police Association Welfare fund had the "legal title" over the property and successfully sought a court order preventing Jaminan from having any dealings with the Lands Titles Registrar. That order was lifted on Wednesday.

"Police Association Welfare Fund members' monies were used to purchase the property and Kunjil No. 19 Limited purchased the property outright from Mr John Jaminan with full settlement of the sale on July 31st 2000," the association said last year.

It further ascertained that Henao Lawyers "did finalise the contract of sale and purchase of land agreement" on the same date and claimed that it has it its possession the documented account of events that led to the "legal and proper acquisition" of the property by the Police Association Welfare Fund.

However Mr Jaminan strenuously denied having any dealings whatsoever with Kunjil No. 19 Ltd nor any law firm including Henao Lawyers and totally denied signing any contract of sales agreement with anybody, not even the Police Association Welfare Fund.

"I only dealt with Mr Kolta ... him and him alone. Not anybody else, not even a lawyer and definitely not Henao Lawyers," a visibly agitated Mr Jaminan told this reporter last year.

"I just want my house back," said Mr Jaminan, now a private citizen.

Airport security tightened

2010-02-22T12:00:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

SECURITY at the Jacksons International Airport has been tightened up as per CAA instructions.

Entrance into the terminals, both Domestic and International, is now strictly either by ticket and ID card, by a Blue colored VIP Pass, green visitor pass accompanied with ID or a Blue CAA Pass.

This measure has apparently been put in place as a deterrent to armed holdups and other dangerous activities at the airport.

Four private Security firms have been contracted to assist the CCA security to implement these new security measures at the airport. The four private firms are SOS, PASS, CORPS and G4S (formerly Protect) Security Services.

When the Sunday Chronicle visited the Domestic Terminal on Thursday, the usual crowding and sweaty jostling, the harassed looks, the noise and the obstruction of unnecessary bodies blocking the path to the domestic traffic counters was gone. The few passengers waiting to check in all looked relaxed and there was plenty of breathing space.

It was evident that any untoward behavior would be easily detected and contained as security personnel were everywhere.

Darius Keake, a Shift Supervisor of the SOS Security detail manning the main entrance explained that even airport workers, pilots, air crew and ground personnel, business tenants housed in the terminal and CAA personnel themselves were subjected to ID scrutiny. "No body is exempt as per CAA instructions," he emphasized.

"A few of our educated elites have argued with my guards on a couple of occasions for being subjected to the enforcement of these restrictions. I appeal to the travelling public to understand that we are only carrying out the instructions of our employer," he said.

Erex Dino a SOS Guard revealed that even uniformed members of the disciplined forces were subjected to these regulations.

"Experience has shown that a uniform does not necessarily mean that the person wearing it is a genuine member of the Police, Army or CS. Crimes have been committed by criminals posing as members of the disciplined forces and it is really not much of a hassle to just produce an ID card to back up your ticket or boarding pass," he said.

East Pangia is confirmed FMA project

2010-02-22T11:54:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

A Forested area in the Southern Highland, which is being pushed as a possible site for Carbon Trading conservation, appears to be an existing Forests Management Area (FMA) identified by the Government in 2002 to aid the recovery of the ailing economy.

Recent media reports show that agreements were signed between Incorporated Land Groups (ILGs) and Nupan (PNG) Trading and Tiyebo and Associates Ltd for Carbon Trading activities for these forests in East Pangia .

The East Pangia FMA, according to Kanawi Pouru, Managing Director of the National Forests Authority, has gone through the allocation process in accordance with the Forestry Act. The process is to be concluded with the execution of the project agreement by the first week of March 2010.

The MD, in a paid advertisement in the dailies this week, stated that the Government's intention to develop the FMA project under the principle of sustainable forest management has not changed.

Apparently, the Forest Management Agreement signed with the State by the landowners in 2002 is legally binding and the State has not excised or removed it.

"The government still honors its commitment to the people of East Pangia FMA Project area to deliver the much needed goods and services through development of this project. As far as the PNG Forests Authority is concerned the East Pangia FMA is intact and that logging operations will commence as soon as the Project Agreement is executed in March," the statement reads.

It further stresses that the media reports relating to the dealings of Nupan (PNG) Trading Corporation Ltd and Tiyebo and Associates Ltd in relation to signing of agreements with ILGs of East Pangia is being investigated and will be dealt with accordingly.

It adds that this does not change or vary the intentions of the PNGFA to develop the East Pangia FMA in accordance with the Forestry Act.

Peaceful people turned into vicious killers

2010-02-22T11:52:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES

THE PNG LNG Project, the biggest so far in our nation's history, is affecting the lives of our citizens but unfortunately, not in the way anticipated.

Greed, intensified by the lure of riches, has turned a once peaceful ethnic group into vicious killers.
The fight between the neighbouring Motuan villages of Boera and Porebada, two and a half weeks ago on Sun, Feb 5, erupted over ownership claims of portion 152, the proposed site of the LNG Plant. It left four people dead and many seriously injured.

Over 3000 men, women and children fled Boera village out of fear of reprisals from their relatives in Porebada. These refugees abandoned their homes and valuables and sought refuge with friends and relatives in Port Moresby and the other Motuan villages.

There houses have been left deserted and there is concern that most, if not all of them have been vandalized and their valuables looted.

After two and a half weeks of living with other people in foreign surroundings, the strain is beginning to tell on these innocent people. There is concern that their prolonged stay with their friends and relatives is a burden. But for a lucky few who have been able to enroll in schools in Port Moresby and the other Motuan villages the majority of the children have been deprived of their rights to education. They have no schools to go to since the nearest High School, Redscar, is in Porebada and Boera Primary has been closed.

There is also fear that physical harm will be done them if the perpetrators of the killings are not brought to justice.

Boera Elder, Rei Homoka, speaking to reporters at the roadside near a private residence in Port Moresby, said their plight was brought about by the vicious conduct of certain people in Boera. "This (the killings) is not the way of the Motuan and Koitabuan people in the entire time we have lived together," he said.

Mr Homoka and a few mothers with their children petitioned the Kairuku-Hiri MP, Paru Aihi and Central Governor Alphonse Moroi to help resolve the conflict and allow them to return to their homes.

Mr. Aihi, visibly saddened by the forlorn look in the faces of the mothers and children, condemned the prolonged inaction by the police to apprehend the perpetrators of the killings.

"This happened in full view of everyone. People saw who were armed and who were involved. Why has there been no suspects arrested yet? Possible suspects of the shooting of a PMV driver last week on the Hiritano Highway have been identified but no suspects for the Porebada killings have been arrested yet. Such hooliganism orchestrated by leaders is very dangerous for our nation," he said.

He said it is intolerable that the innocent suffer because of the actions of a few.

"The perpetrators are probably moving around in dark glass vehicles. They are eating and sleeping well while innocent women and children suffer. Police must get their act together arrest these people," the MP said.

PNG Institute of Business Studies turns 21

2010-02-22T11:49:00.000+10:00

By JOE IVAHARIA

FROM humble beginnings to becoming one of Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea's finest institutions the Institute of Business Studies this week celebrated 21 years of existence.

At an informal gathering to thank the academic staff, both old and new for their contributions to the institution over the years, Mick Nades the Director and principal said that IBS was today giving the best in terms of educational qualification to the countries human resources.

"Today we can be ranked among the country's best educational institutions providing quality educational courses and programs for our people from all walks of life who wish to improve in their quest for knowledge" Nades stated.

He related his words of appreciation to all staffs of the IBS both current and past who contributed one way or another to making IBS what it is today while adding that IBS was looking forward to moving to its new premises at 11 mile outside the city.

Mr Nades further elaborated that more new innovative ideas would be introduced to the institute through various programs in collaboration with other educational institutions abroad in order for Papua New Guinea students to attain quality and high qualifications and be among the best in the World.

During the occasion long serving staff were commended for their services to the institution and awarded certificates and presents as well as the rest of the academic and support staff who were also acknowledged for their contributions.

Pro-Ma Systems embraces literacy policy

2010-02-22T11:37:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

IN what is arguably the first in education to achieve the national government's Public Private Partnership policy, Pro Ma Systems Australia through its PNG office is supporting a literacy school for the under privileged children near Laloki outside Port Moresby.

St Peter's Literacy School is set to be opened by NCD Governor Powes Parkop today in the presence of representatives from Pro-Ma Systems, the National Literacy Awareness Council Secretariat, Goilala MP and Central province Governor, Alphonse Moroi.

The school is expected to take in more than 300 under-privileged children of Goilala origin and any other under privileged children in settlements around Port Moresby.

Besides an undisclosed financial contribution by the Pro-Ma Systems Australia to the school, the food supplement distributor has also organised tables, desks, library books and other essential materials needed to make these new education facilities the best.

An excited chairman and founder of the school, Peter Laiam said, once completed, the St. Peter's Literacy School will be one of the best literacy schools throughout the whole of NCD.

The school boasts a permanent classroom with shower and toilets for both male and female students. And according to Mr Liam, more classrooms, teachers houses and dormitories for the elementary students are coming on-stream as the year unfolds. They are planning to take up to grade six in the coming years. Currently, the facilities will cater for only elementary grades up to elementary year three.

According to the Director of the National Literacy Awareness Council Secretariat, Willie Jonduo, during the day, the literacy school will be catering for children whilst in the evening it will be taking adult literacy programmes.

The long winding road to establishing St. Peter's literacy school has humble, yet colourful beginnings. You can read full details of this story in the Niuscope Magazine coming to your bookstores soon.

Govt action lacking in corruption fight: TIPNG

2010-02-22T11:35:00.000+10:00

Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) is disgusted at the collapse of the governments financial management systems and the PAC reports clearly show a complete lack of accountability within the public service.

TIPNG said that it is very sad to learn from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that from the 1,000 enquiries carried out by the PAC into the operations of various government agencies, hospital boards, and trust accounts, most have not complied with lawful requirements.

TIPNG said the government must wakeup, the PAC has sounded the alarm bells and the NEC must address this situation as the highest priority.

"We understand the various PAC reports have been sitting with the NEC gathering dust, if this is true then this is indeed an indictment on the members of the NEC," TIPNG said.

TIPNG said it is totally unacceptable that government, and particularly the National Executive Council, turn a blind eye to reports submitted by the PAC. From the point of view of the people when Government does not bother to respond to theft and malpractice it becomes an accomplice of those who are stealing and misusing the peoples’ resources.

This state of affairs suggests the government has no respect for the people it is sworn to serve and is certainly not serious about ensuring that proper procedures and regulations, particularly the Financial Management Act are adhered to by all agencies in a transparent manner.

TIPNG is also shocked to see the statement from the PAC indicating that a report submitted to the Government on the state of affairs of the Department of Lands & Physical Planning was never given consideration.

TIPNG said such lack of action by the government continues to feed and encourage more unlawful practices translating into non delivery of goods and services to ordinary Papua New Guineans. The PAC reports and the statement issued yesterday must resonate with the key people in Government that we are heading on a dangerous path.

"In the words of the PAC member and Governor Mal Kela-Smith, the loss of public funds as a result of corruption could be as high as 3 Billion kina. Consider what this means to us as a Nation, if these corrupt networks are able to steal 3 Billion kina of public monies within our current economic levels, how much more are they likely to steal when the revenues for the LNG start flowing, if we do not take firm and decisive action to fix our government systems," TIPING said.

Meanwhile, TIPNG has commended the five best performing government organisations over the last five years.

They are the Bank of PNG, the Institute of Public Administration, Goroka & Alotau Hospital Boards and Post PNG. TIPNG commended these organisations that have managed to fulfil fiscal management requirements under the Public Finance Management Act and encourages their managers and staff to keep up the good work.

TIPNG said there is a desperate need for more organisations to follow the example of these organisations to ensure goods and services are delivered to the people.

TPNG also extended its thanks to the PAC for delivering its report and highlighting both the good and bad in public service accountability. TIPNG believed that the PAC is a vital arm of government oversight, and said it should be strongly supported in its work.

European Union releases NSA grant

2010-02-22T11:33:00.000+10:00

By EDDIE MOSES
A K1.5 million grant facility for Non State Actors (NSAs) funded by the European Union was launched at the Crowne Plaza Hotel last week.

The launch commences the new 'call for proposals' from Community Based Organizations (CBOs) or small NGOs 'to strengthen the role of Civil Society in district and local level planning and decision making.

It falls in the framework of the EU funded program 'Support to Non State Actors' and its goal is to enhance the role of civil society in the development process and dialogue with government at all levels in PNG by strengthening the role of civil society in promoting the demand for and delivery of good governance and improved service delivery.

Funding of the successful proposals will be from between K20, 000 to K80, 000.
Joseph Klapat, Secretary of the Department for Community Development (DFCD), the implementing agency for the program explained at the launch that the main role of government is to promote, assist and facilitate the development of civil society which is the approach DFCD is taking with the program.

The EU's First Secretary for Governance, Economic and Trade, Roberto, said the involvement of local players in development strategies is more crucial than ever in the framework of the fight against poverty.

"Working with Civil Society players, especially those active at the local level, is one of the important ways to rise to this challenge. Civil Society organizations are important actors in the dynamics of democracy," he said.

CBOs and small NGOs from only two districts each from four selected provinces are eligible to access these grants. The four provinces and their respective districts are Milne Bay (Alotau and Esa' Ala Districts), Sandaun (Vanimo-Green and Aitape-Lumi Districts), East New Britain (Kokopo and Gazelle Districts) and West New Britain (Kandrian-Gloucester and Talasea Districts).

Representatives from DFCD explained that the main criterion for selection of the provinces and districts was the existence of proper planning practices in these provinces and districts. A second call for proposals from a further four districts under this program will be announced in June.

Signs of a failed state

2010-02-22T11:30:00.000+10:00

FAILURE to account for government funds by about 1000 government institutions the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) had inquired into is a symptom of a failed state.

PAC member and Bulolo MP Sam Basil said on Wednesday that only five of the 1000 had satisfied the Public Accounts Management Act is an indication of a failed state.

He later told this paper that if the government institutions entrusted by the government and the people to serve them is not working, there is definitely something wrong.

Mr Basil said, "We have a big problem and we are pretending there is nothing wrong."
He said government institutions are placed to serve the country and its people but this is not happening.

The Member told this paper that governments have been defending the country over this and but the realities are written on the wall for all to see.

He said governments must admit the facts and look at ways of addressing them instead of defending.
In the first Public accounts committee inquiry for 2010, it was revealed that only five institutions have successfully satisfied the Public Accounts Management Act from the 100 inquired into by the PAC.

Keram villagers demand answers for "unfulfilled promises"

2010-02-22T11:28:00.000+10:00

By ALPHONSE BARIASI
A remote community in Madang Province has renewed claims that a promise made to them by an Australian salvage team that took a war time aircraft from their area in 1994, was never fulfilled.

A village spokesman said this week in Port Moresby that the salvage team left with an undertaking to return and build new classrooms and other buildings at the Keram community school.

But the Royal Australian Air Force, through the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby, has denied there had been any promise made the Bumbera community, situated along the Keram River in the Middle Ramu District.

A response from the Australian Defence Department through the High Commission in Port Moresby stated: "The Department of Defence confirms that it successfully salvaged a 'Boston' bomber aircraft from the Bumbera Village area in 1994.

The Department of Defence remains grateful to the Bumbera villagers who assisted with locating and recovering the aircraft. The Department of Defence confirms that no promises of compensation were made at any time to the villagers or local landowners for their assistance."

Following a number of previous attempts, the Bumbera villagers raised the matter again after hearing news that an American war time aircraft, the "Swam Ghost" was recently salvaged from Oro Province and a payment of US$100,000 made for it.

The Australian aircraft, a Boston bomber crashed into a swamp within walking distance from the Bumbera village during WWII. The pilot and co-pilot escaped and were hidden by the local people and brought to the safety of their base at Annaberg on the Ramu River.

According to village spokesman Emmanuel Kenamb, who got the story from village elders, the enemy was some distance downstream on the Keram and saw the aircraft going down and went searching for it and its occupants.

During interrogation, a number of locals were killed by the Japanese because of their reluctance to provide information but more so out of frustration because of the language barrier, Mr Kenamb said.

Mr Kenamb said the Australian Air Force team, led by Wing Commander Bill Ivory took the aircraft in 1994 with the help of young men from the village.

When the aircraft was floated, its engine oils and fuel were drained into the swamp polluting the water.
"The pollution and the amount of clearing up work done destroyed the important crocodile hunting ground," Mr Kenamb said.

He noted also that the aircraft was lifted out on a Sunday when the locals were in church. It would have been a better, although sentimental send-off if the villagers were there because the aircraft had been with them and became part of their history, Mr Kenamb said.

The aircraft has since been restored and is now in the Amberlie Air Base outside Brisbane, Australia. It will be shipped back to PNG and placed in a soon-to-be built modern history museum in Port Moresby.

Mr Kenamb was adamant that there was a promise made, contrary to a denial from the RAAF.
Under the War Surplus Materials Act, all relics are the property of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.

People seeking compensation for safeguarding or salvaging surplus war materials, including aircraft, will have to register their claims to the State through the National Museum and Art Gallery.

Sacred Heart celebrates Ash Wednesday

2010-02-22T11:24:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

YOU need to change and I need to change as well. I will change from screaming at you if you change your ways.

The headmistress of Sacred Heart Catholic Primary school. Helen Ofora told her students during the celebration of Ash Wed to start the Lent season in the Catholic Church calendar.

The headmistress urged her students and teachers to fast, repent and give in this time of the Lenten season.
"This is a time for repentance and to find new life in Jesus Christ. All of us need to change from inside and do charity work," the headmistress told those gathered.

Students, teachers and some parents gathered at the Hohola Catholic church last Wed to celebrate the annual event. Hohola parish priest, Fr. Elisco Sango officiated in the Eucharistic celebrations.

The teachers and students left their normal classroom duties to fully participate in this every important Christian celebration. Students from as low as the elementary classes sang beautiful songs and offered prayers of repentance to add clarity and meaning to begin the Lenten season.

Deputy head teacher and coordinator of the Religious Education Theresa Abdul said that each year the entire school gathers together as a great family to share and talk about the love of God for mankind.
"Every Ash-Weds, we come together to remind ourselves about what Christ gone through before he was crucified on the Cross," she said.

"Each class is given specific tasks to do on this day and every class has to prepare a gift box to be given to charity."

She said that coins are also collected through out the duration of the Lenten season and are given to charity organisations. Offering boxes are placed in each class so coins and other gifts are collected. These are gathered at the end of the season and donated to charities.

"It is also time of giving. We encourage our children to give generously from their hearts," the RE coordinator said.

She said that all children who attend Sacred Heart Catholic Primary are physically, mentally and spiritually nurtured so they can become responsible and respected citizens of our communities.

A baptism and first communion service will be conducted in June for the Grade 4 students this year.

GG praises Clark Visit

2010-02-22T11:21:00.000+10:00

GRAND CHIEF Sir Paulius Matane, Governor General of Papua New Guinea has applauded the visit of former Prime Minister of New Zealand and current Administrator of United Nations development Programme, Helen Clark to the country recently.

Sir Paulius said, the visit of Ms. Clark fortifies the work of UNDP in PNG and is in itself an assurance of the UNDP’s continuous partnership with the Government to address development issues in the country.

Grand Chief Sir Paulius made this known during Ms. Clark’s visit to Government house, last Saturday.

Grand Chief Sir Paulius said, PNG is working towards achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, especially in the areas of health, education and gender equality.

Grand Chief Sir Paulius paid tribute to the former UNDP country representative, Dr. Jacqueline Badcock, for her tireless efforts and active participation in supporting and establishing policies to address social issues in PNG.

He said, the UNDP has been particularly active in supporting women in Parliament and in ensuring the bill to have women in Parliament is realized. The outcome of the bill will be known when Parliament convenes in March.

Grand Chief Sir Paulius said, as far as gender equality is concerned, New Zealand provides a distinctive model which PNG can learn from and emulate. Women have held top positions in Government in the form of Dame Silvia Cartwright as Governor General, Ms. Helen Clark as Prime Minister and Dame Sian Elias as Chief Justice of New Zealand.

Grand Chief Sir Paulius assured that the work of the UNDP in PNG is being appreciated adding that the recent launched National Development Plan 2010 – 2050 highlights issues that are being promoted by the United Nations Development Programme.

In response, Ms Clark remarked that PNG is now at a stage of exciting changes especially in regards to the abundant natural resources available to it. She said, the liquefied natural gas project will bring enormous wealth to the country.

She said, these changes provide PNG the opportunity to push for improvements in the health and education sectors and to seriously address gender issues in all sections of the country.

Ms Clark said the UNDP will continue to support the national Government in this area and recommended that these issues be incorporated into the education curriculum for all schools throughout the country.

“There will be social issues and it will be good to have this as part of the education curriculum to teach young people how to budget their money, have access to health care and do away with alcohol consumption and gambling, these are vices. It all come back to education,” Ms Clark said.

Ms Clark added another matter of concern is corruption. She said, it is important to also include ethics early in education as a means of addressing corruption in society.

Ms Clark assured that the UNDP stands ready to assist the Government tackle these issues and meet the UN Millennium Development Goals.

Makapa Timber Area seeks forest certification

2010-02-22T11:18:00.000+10:00

THE 3,000 hectares Makapa Timber Concession in the Western Province is seeking to get Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Forest Certification.

The first step to FSC certification was a scoping visit carried out last week by Dr Robert Hrubes of Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) based in California USA.

Makapa logging concession, is managed by Innovision (PNG) Ltd (IPNG) which is a subsidiary of the Sabah Foundation of Malaysia. IPNG led by Mr Oscar Mamalai, the General Manager and a team of fully trained field foresters, has stepped forward, from the background of bad image of industrial logging in PNG to allow third party independent scrutiny of the company's operation.

"We want to do the right thing in forestry and forest management and are open to outside scrutiny to help us in this process. We believe FSCs track record worldwide suggest that getting FSC certification in Makapa will help us do the right thing and also help change the international perception and image of forestry in PNG".

The preliminary feedback from the scoping visit identified some major issues which will be addressed by Innovision over the coming months. Makapa is geared up to do responsible forestry and is looking forward to receiving the full report, which is due sometimes in late February early March 2010.

The FSC scoping is a major breakthrough for Forest Operators in PNG as this will be the first of its kind on a large-scale logging. Certification under FSC has set the highest standard in forest management worldwide and PNG national standards for forest certification has also set a high bar according to Dr Robert Hrubes, who has over 25 years of forest auditing work worldwide. "PNG FSC Standards has more indictors that raises the bar very high and certain aspects of the standard needs to be revisited in its periodic review to still meet the national standards requirements"...

Mr Yati A. Bun of Foundation for People and Community Development Inc (FPCD) pointed out that Forest Certification in community forestry has been achieved already in PNG. "What is needed is to upscale this to large scale logging and FPCD is proud to join hands with Innovision to start this process. If certified, Makapa will change the way large scale logging is done in PNG and we believe this is good for PNG as well as PNGs international image pertaining to forestry."

The scoping visit was made possible through funding from International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) of which PNG is a member. In 2008, ITTO called for proposal worldwide from Private Sector Civil Society partnership towards Sustainable Forest Management /Forest Certification. FPCD and Innovison put in a joint proposal to ITTO which was eventually approved and funded.

Further information, please contact Yati A. Bun on Tel#325 8470 and or email at yabun@datec.net.pg

Kapris names ministers

2010-02-14T09:33:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

TWO State Ministers were allegedly involved in the escape of the Papua New Guinea's most wanted criminal William Kapris and 11 others four weeks ago.

Police sources told Sunday Chronicle that Kapris told the policemen who arrested him that the two Ministers (named) provided K25,000 used in the planning of the prison escape.

Police Commissioner Gari Baki said he had not received any statement on these allegations.

However, if there is any truth, the normal process would be followed where the Ministers involved would be notified and taken in for questioning.

Meanwhile, Mr Baki revealed on Friday that there was a near clash between policemen who arrested Kapris and a unit from Mc Gregor late night on the Saturday when Kapris was arrested.

The Commissioner told Sunday Chronicle that policemen who arrested Kapris seemed to have forgotten all process and protocol by not taking Kapris to Boroko police station and locking him up.

Mr Baki said he was also not formally informed of Kapris's arrest as Kapris is the most wanted criminal and the Government had shown the urgency for the capture of Kapris by funding a special operation for his capture.

However, he was told of the arrest couple of hours later and by three different sources.

Mr Baki said as far as he is concerned Kapris is a convicted criminal and he is grateful that he was caught but the normal standard police process should have been followed.

He does not know why Kapris was not locked up and he has instituted an investigation to look into this.

He said when he learnt that Kapris was not at Boroko police cells, he directed Mr Huafolo and the Director for the Mobile units, David Manning to look for the unit and have Kapris taken to Bomana.

When Mr Manning's unit approached the vehicle with Kapris, guns were pointed at Mr Manning, resulting in a near shootout and that was around 12.45am, Mr Baki said.

The normal process would have been for Kapris to be brought back to Boroko police station, questioned and locked up but that did not happen and the policemen who arrested him were still driving him around for reasons known only to them.

Mr Baki also said he directed the policemen to take Kapris to Konedobu police headquarters for questioning by the intelligences unit but that was also defied.

The Commissioner revealed this when questioned about senior police officers interfering with the investigations.

An officer speaking on anonymity said Kapris told the policemen who were there with him before he was taken to Bomana, how the escape was planned, who was involved and the amount of money involved and the source of the money.

He also said: "Police hierarchy's involvement in the case is becoming obvious with the COP (Commissioner of Police) trying to see Kapris ... he is not the arresting officer ... Mr (name) had no right to stop the policemen from questioning Kapris and forcing them to take Kapris to Bomana," he said.

He said Mr Huafolo directed that policemen should not talk to Kapris and be taken directly to Bomana.

Mr Baki brushed aside claims of police hierarchy interfering in the normal process.

He said the decision he made were based on what was happening then when policemen chose to drive the criminal around and not take him in for questioning.

Metropolitan commander Fred Yakasa also denied receiving any report on the allegations of two ministers involved.

Kapris is the third men so far captured of the 12 escapees from the maximum prison.

Sir J wants Allied Gold out of PNG

2010-02-14T09:27:00.000+10:00

Words and picture by HENZY YAKHAM

THE NATIONAL Court decision last Monday (Feb 8) ordering the deportation of 14 Fijian security personnel who were brought in without work permits early last month by Allied Gold to work at its Simberi gold mine is indicative of arrogance by some foreign interests, the New Ireland Provincial Government has said.

Governor of New Ireland Sir Julius Chan said that the Simberi case was a typical case of ignorance and foreign invasion by Allied Gold Limited who was driven by monetary influences and did not care of the environment damages, health concerns and others affecting the people on Simberi Island and New Ireland province.

"Allied Mining CEO (Chief Executive Officer) Marc Caruso should not stop with the deportation of the Fijians. The eviction and subsequent court deportation must not allow management and CEO to end there. There is total violation of laws and sovereignty of the country," he stressed.

Sir Julius commended all relevant state agencies who were involved in the removal of the 14 Fijians, which he termed as the first phase of what should a complete exit of Allied Gold from Simberi Island and New Ireland province and PNG eventually.

He said he Government should now proceed with the second phase of bringing management to account for attempted infiltration of foreign elements and violation of Mining Lease agreement, particularly neglect and pollution and infrastructure as well as direct benefits on business and related issues, he stressed.

Sir Julius said the third phase is as the people want - the complete removal of Allied Gold and Marc Caruso from Simberi and New Ireland province.

"The NIPG will stand by the people's wish and call for immediate review, especially in benefits sharing. Caruso highlighted K2-5m royalty payments. What laugh at such price. Call him to relate that to profits. New Irelanders are not fools and Caruso must not play with numbers.

"What does he personally earn since and how is his personal income compared with these royalty payments to thousands of Tabar people. Caruso thinks we are stupid. The people want him out," Sir Julius stressed.

As well, the former prime minister described a recent newspaper advertisement taken out Mr Caruso to justify continued operation of the Simberi gold mine in New Ireland province as "heavy handedness and arrogance tantamount to lies".

The Fijians were flown directly to Simberi by Allied Gold, the first batch on January 2 2010 and the second batch on January 7 2010 raising serious security, immigration and work permit issue concerns.

It followed the closure of Simberi mine last year (November/December 2009) by the Mineral resource Authority (MRA) over health, environmental and safety concerns.

During the closure, the Simberi Mining Area Association (SMAA) imposed traditional sanction (tambu) of "gorgor" over ongoing disputes regarding a range of unsettled businesses and commitments with the Simberi mine management.

The gorgor was removed on January 2 2010 after SMAA and SGCL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

However, to the surprise of SMAA, police, local people and the NIPG, the Fijians were flown directly by the company to Simberi.

A combined Government team moved into Simberi with police help and brought the Fijians out to Port Moresby to leave the country on January 29 2009, but company lawyers intervened to seek relief from the court.

On February 8 2010, National Court Judge Ambeng Kandakasi established that the Fijians did not have work permits and ordered their deportation by February 12 2010.

Foreign Minister Sam Abal signed deportation orders on Thursday (Feb 11) for them to leave on Friday.

The 14 Fijians are;; Samesa Bilo Naga, Tanarusa Bosevou, Sitiveni Koya Naitini, Rata Josaia Ravonu, Asivorisi Jiare Lalakai, Jacalevu Batisaveve, Lowane Manasau, Sakarai Vatuturangani, Petoro Tambua Lailai,Samuel Tabua, Josesa Salu, Jowarie Serunitau, Paula Biutu and Towake Cama.

'Simberi mines should be reprimanded'

2010-02-14T09:23:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

PAPUA New Guinea is slowly slipping into a Nigeria of the Pacific unless something urgent is done to scrutinise employment of foreigners by resource developers in the country.

President of the Public Employees Association, Michael Malabag said already hiring of foreign mercenaries by the New Ireland-based Simberi mine provides a classic example where resource developers will hire their own fighting men from outside the country to protect their interest in PNG.

"There have been cases in Nigeria where resource developers hired guerillas from outside that country and fought guerilla warfare with local law enforcement authorities," said Mr. Malabag.

And he warned that Papua New Guinea is slowly slipping into such a scenario as that of Nigeria unless the relevant government departments immediately do something to curtail such illegal uprising before it becomes too expensive for the national government to resolve in the future.

The Public Employees Association President also called on the national government to reprimand the operators of the Simberi mines if media reports are correct that they have flaunted all immigration and employment laws of the country to engage mercenaries into Simberi.

SHP governor gives K500,000 for rural electrification

2010-02-14T09:21:00.002+10:00

MEMBER for Mendi and acting Governor for Southern Highlands Province Pastor Isaac Joseph presented a cheque of K500,000 to PNG Power recently to begin rural electrification construction in his electorate.

The line extension project, about 40km, will begin from Mendi to Mogol Secondary School and onto Birop Village, and then from Map to Monihiu Station and Bella Village.

PNG Power CEO Tony Koiri said PPL was still committed to carrying out RE in SHP and assured the governor that the project would be completed in time.

Mr Koiri also appealed to the governor to assist the construction teams on the ground especially when dealing with landowner issues.

Governor Joseph assured Mr Koiri his people will cooperate with the PPL team to speed up the project.

He added that the electricity service would help develop his electorate and urged his people to change their mindset of demanding for compensation and instead accept positive changes in their lives.

Nation awaits ruling on OLIPPAC

2010-02-14T09:20:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

THE Government and the Opposition alike are keenly awaiting the ruling of the Supreme Court reference on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates.

Pending that decision, the Prime Minister has delayed his much publicised cabinet reshuffle for another two weeks with the possibility of offering renegade opposition MPs ministerial portfolios in his cabinet to stabilise his government in the event that the Supreme Court reference throws out the OLIPPAC.

While the sponsor of the Supreme Court Reference on the OLIPPAC Law, Bob Danaya has openly said he is "not interested" in any ministerial portfolios, other parties in the opposition are playing the "wait and see" game before making a move.

The Opposition has tried to overthrow the National Alliance-led government following the 18 months grace period lapsed but had not succeeded due to provisions in the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates, which effectively prohibited Members of Parliament to switch alliances after voting for the Prime Minister at the formation of government immediately after the elections.

Western Province Governor, Dr Bob Danaya and his Provincial Executive Council have taken the challenge upon themselves to refer respective sections of the Organic Law to the Supreme Court to determine the constitutionality of OLIPPAC.

Submissions have been received from both the referrers and other interested parties to this high profile case and the Supreme Court has reserved its decision to a later date - which Western Province Governor Dr Danaya believes will be in the next two weeks, a timeframe the Prime Minister has also given to reshuffle his cabinet.

Both the Opposition and the Executive Government are holding their breath awaiting that decision. If OLIPPAC is ruled unconstitutional, old conventions of parliamentary democracy will be back on the floor of parliament, culminating in a vote of no confidence against the National Alliance-led government when parliament meets for its first session for this year next month.

Counsels for both the referrers and the defendants argued eloquently in court throughout this week. The refers maintained that OLLIPAC is unconstitutional because it infringes on MPs rights to move and vote on conscience and that removal of a Prime Minister in a vote of no-confidence is also constitutionally provided for.

Locals blame poor engineering for washed away highway crossing

2010-02-14T09:18:00.000+10:00

By PIUS MON

PREPARATION work on the multibillion kina LNG project in the Southern Highlands has been temporary halted after a culvert has been washed away at Tabuga in the Nebilyer district along the highway leading to Southern Highlands province last week.

And the local leaders are blaming it on the ‘poor engineering’ work done by the Western Highlands Provincial Works department after the bridge was first washed away by heavy flooding late last month.

Landowner and young local leader Mr. John Kanamba said after the first flooding late last month by the same river the old culverts were exposed.

He alleged that when the provincial works department visited the area, they did not remove the old culvert but instead back filled the exposed old culvert with gravel and let vehicles pass through until the second time the culvert was completely washed away leaving a gap of more than ten meters.

Mr. Kanamba added that if only the works department had removed the old culvert and replaced it with a big new one nothing would have happened.

“I blame the works department for their poor engineering, this second disaster would not have happened...this is a manmade disaster now and the works department is answerable for that,” he said.

He added that not only the commuters are affected but the operations of the multimillion kina LNG project and operations of Southern Highlands province, adding that it was going into its second week while works department is slowing the progress of construction of new culvert.

Mr. Kanamba also challenged the provincial works department to speed up the work and or if possible give the contract to a construction company if they do not have the equipment and manpower to speed up the work.

A visit by this reporter to the affected area revealed that most vehicles are stopping on either sides of the road while people crossed over to catch onward transport at either side of the washed away crossing.

Mr. Kanamba said there has been no harassing of the general public by the locals, adding that young men are helping to transport heavy cargoes and only charging less than one kina for a bag.

Police presence in the area is also contained any possible harassment by the locals while commuters are transiting to vehicles without fear or intimidation by the locals.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Works Manager, Mr. John Puri has brushed aside the allegation of poor engineering by the Works Department. He said instead that he was waiting for a reply from Port Moresby for one of the reports that he has submitted for reconstruction of the washed away culverts at the affected areas.

“Partly they are right...I was still waiting for the report from Port Moresby and it took about three weeks since the temporary work and then the second disaster struck,” he said.

Lack of equipment by the Provincial Works Department was another factor that also delayed the progress of the work. Equipment had to be hired from Southern Highlands province to continue the work.

“We have no equipment so we had to hire from Loma construction and Asi Holdings and all this is being done on commitment bases with arrangement by the top management,” he said.

Mr. Puri highlighted that if only they had the equipment and the local people had cooperated they would have fix the road within days, adding that the unnecessary delay has affected Southern Highlands for more than a week.

The road has since been reopened but for one way traffic but only. More work needs to be done, Mr more work needs to be done on the road, Mr Puri said.

Lawyers argue on OLIPPAC's legality

2010-02-14T09:12:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

MEMBERS of Parliament keenly awaiting the court determination of the legality of Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates law will know the outcome of this court challenge in a matter of weeks.

Western Province Governor, Dr. Bob Danaya, on behalf of his Provincial Executive Council, took out a Supreme Court Reference last year challenging sections 58, 59 and 60 of the said Organic Law saying it restricts their constitutionally guaranteed freedom under Section 32 of the National Constitution.

This week, lawyers representing the government submitted that the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates legislation is constitutional.

Counsel representing the Prime Minister and the National Executive Council, Aloysius Jerewai submitted that the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates law is in-line with sections 27, 127, and 38 of the National Constitution.

Section 38 deals with public safety, public welfare and public order (among others) while sections 27 deals with misconduct in office of leaders and sections 127 deals with protecting members of parliament from outside (foreign) influence. This section calls for a specific provision to enact an organic law to deal specifically with this issue.

"The purpose of this sub division is to protect elections and to prevent candidates from being or appearing to be or have been improperly or unduly influenced by outside (especially foreign) or hidden influence, and an Organic law may make provision ... for achieving that purpose," section 127 of the Constitution reads.

"Your honours, to summarise, public safety, public good, public order and public welfare should be paramount," Mr. Jerewai told the five men Supreme Court bench on Tue.

"OLIPPAC has not been enacted in isolation from the constitution. It is authorised by section 127 of the Constitution and is therefore in accordance with the constitution. The organic law did not infringe on any rights. It has complied with all necessary provisions of the National Constitution," Mr. Jerewai submitted.

Meanwhile, counsel appearing for the Attorney General submitted that under sections 18 and 19 of the National Constitution, the Supreme Court only have interpretative powers to interpret laws. It does not give the Supreme Court any powers to rule on the validity of laws.

The Attorney General's Counsel, while supporting Mr Jerewai's submissions on Section 38 of the Constitution, told the bench that since the introduction of the Integrity Law on Political Parties and Candidates, there has been general peace and stability in the political system. This peace and stability translates to the peace, welfare and good order of society as seen is increase in business and prosperity of the country.

Do not confuse census with EC

2010-02-14T09:10:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

ORGANISERS of Census 2010 have called on the people of Papua New Guinea to differentiate between the work of the Electoral Commission and that of the National Census.

Acting National Statistician, Kit Rongap said it is important that the people understand the difference between the working of the National Census and the Electoral Commission so that the people in the villages should not inflate numbers of people in their villagers when enumerators (those involved in the counting exercise) visit their villages.

Mr. Rongap said it is also important for the people to understand the work of the National Census so that enumerators are not chased away from the villagers when they go to each village to count the people.

"In the past, enumerators have been chased away from the villages because they think that supporters of different candidates are going around to count people before the elections," Mr. Rongap said.

Mr. Rongap said this fundamental difference has to be understood in order to achieve a trouble-free census this year.

Mr. Rongap's comments come as preliminary work on the nationwide, village by village enumeration begins.

This week, Census 2010 Officials were out in the provinces updating the Provincial Census Officers of what is expected of them.

Dispute over Napa Napa land

2010-02-14T09:08:00.002+10:00

THE Chairman of Kuriu (Kuna Kore) clan, Homoka Rei has spoken out against the Napa Napa Landowner Association headed by Pr. Hanua Gadiki of Gorou village and others.

He said that the association leadership's is in crisis because members are not traditional landowners of Napa Napa (DA5). He said Pr. is not from Roku village but from Gorou village.

He said the land, known as DA5, was acquired by the Colonial Administration in the 1800s. The land belongs to the Kuriu Clan and has always been demarcated traditionally in favor of two sub-clans from Roku village. The two sub-clans are Gaudi Kore and Kuna Kori.

He said the land includes the land on which the Napa Napa Oil Refinery now stands. This particular portion belongs to Kuna Kori sub-clan.

He said the Colonial Administration acquired it for no apparent use until the building of the Refinery and now the LNG #2 project at Hitau.

Mr Rei said the land has also been the subject of a National Land Declaration and proceedings are afoot before the National Land Commission.

"Since the time of acquisition right up to the establishment of the refinery, the rightful traditional owners have been abandoned. We have become mere spectators on our own land," Mr Rei said.

"We invite and welcome, our brothers and sisters from Gaudi Kore and Geita Kore sub-clan to work with us for the mutual benefit of everybody and to avoid unnecessary disruptions in the operations."

Local group challenges logging giant

2010-02-14T09:07:00.000+10:00

A LOCAL organization in Madang province, known as Asples Madang, is fighting against one of the region's biggest industrial loggers, Rimbunan Hijau (RH) chaired by billionaire Tiong Hiew King.

Aspeles Madang has accused Malaysian company, RH, of acquiring land illegally and of using brute force and bribery in its dealing with locals reports mongabay.com.

A lawsuit by a local landowner claiming that the Forest Management Area was illegally granted to RH has put the company's logging on hold for two months along the Ramu River in Madang Province. However according to Ecological Internet, which has started a campaign to expel RH from the area, the lawsuit is "only a temporarily reprieve".

Ecological Internet working with Asples Madang hopes to use the reprieve in order to bring attention to RH's alleged abuses which it calls "sociopathic", as well as highlight the possibilities of sustainable logging and alternatives to logging altogether in the region.

According to Ecological Internet RH has bribed local landowners, government officials, and police. The organization also reports on an incident where two teenage boys were shot by police allegedly paid off by RH after the boys broke into an RH tool shed.

This isn't the first time that RH has faced allegations of corruption and environmental degradation. A report by Greenpeace of RH's operations in PNG found that the company conducted large-scale illegal logging and had violated numerous human rights.

JK Balasubramaniam, RH company secretary, called Greenpeace's allegations "baseless, frivolous, vexatious" saying that Greenpeace was committing "economic terrorism".

However, a recent report by the Department of Labor and Employment also found evidence of bribery, corruption, and slave-like treatment of employees by RH.

The Ramu River Valley in Madang province is home to 2.47 million acres of lowland rainforest and swamp forest.

Rimbunan Hijau (RH) did not respond to request for comment, said mongabay.com.

Diplomatic corps reassures Secretary Mawe

2010-02-14T09:04:00.000+10:00

Capital City launches bus service; routes mapped out

2010-02-14T09:03:00.000+10:00

By BENNY SANDEKA

THE nation's capital city authority has launched a 'revolutionary' transport system that would ease all traffic congestion in Port Moresby without affecting the normal operations of the usual 30-seater PMV buses operating in different routes around the city.

Soon to go on the roads, the 10 40-seater buses will go around the capital city in circular routes at appointed times to provide a clean, safe and reliable public transport system for city residents 'especially women and children.'

The first route consisting of five buses will begin at the airport, through to Boroko, Badili, downtown Port Moresby, up the Poreporena Freeway, Gordons and back to the airport. Another lot of five buses will service the route from Gerehu through to Gordons, East Boroko, Malaoro, Port Moresby General Hospital, Hohola, Tokarara, Waigani and back to the University.

A minimum of two minutes is expected at every stop before the bus moves on to another route and a minimum of 10 minutes waiting time should be expected at every bus stop by the passengers.

The introduction of these new buses will help current PMV buses to service shorter routes thus reducing their operating costs as well as wear and tear of their vehicles.

Governor Powes Parkop and his team are still working out the costs of operating these buses without affecting the profitability of the normal buses in the city.

"For instance, if passengers pay normal bus fare within a route and want to make a connection, they can jump on any circular routes free of charge when they show a ticket," said Governor Powes Parkop.

"We are still trying to work out the details of how these buses are going to operate. But we know that public transport systems around the world hardly make profits. NCDC is considering significant subsidisation of these buses," said the governor.

The buses are expected to start early in the morning and work into the early hours of the night as part of the Capital City Governor's initiative "to reclaim the night from thugs and criminal elements".

Crowds at the bus stops cheered and clapped their hands when the buses were driven around the city at the launch. Other by-standers took pictures on their mobile phones and even some drove past with their cameras clicking.

This is the latest innovation from the "man with no money but millions of ideas," in making the nation's capital a better and safer place to live in.

Disabled seek protection law

2010-02-14T08:56:00.000+10:00

By ROBERT PALME

THE government has been urged to take ownership of disable people.

Chairman of the National Board for Disable Persons Brown Kapi told reporters that there are about 600,000 disabled people with different disabilities and the government must start now with the national population and housing census.

Mr Kapi, who is wheelchair ridden, is also calling on the government for a "homegrown, standalone" legislature for the disable people.

Mr Kapi said the legislature to complement the United Nations Charters would give the disable people some recognition and address the different imparities.

The legislature would provide for planners to include and consider the disable in any infrastructure development, employment opportunities and other areas where specialist attention is needed.

The chairman said the disabled are human beings who given the opportunity would contribute immensely to the development.

They must be treated with dignity and allow them equal opportunities to participate instead of seeing and tagging them as disable people.

Meanwhile, Mr Kapi has written to the National Statistical Office calling on them to include a separate census on the disabled people in the country.

He said the disable people have been deprived of their rights for the last 30 years and asked that the census teams collect the necessary data so that future planning could address the disable people.

Porebada presents petition to Moroi, Aihi

2010-02-14T08:49:00.002+10:00

By ABBIE COLLACO

POREBADA villagers in the Central province on Wednesday formally presented their petition to Central province Governor Alphonse Moroi and Kairuku Hiri MP Paru Aihi.

The petition included a compensation package for K150,000 cash for each family of the four dead and no less than K50,000 for each of the most seriously injured.

They further demanded from the Boera villagers, developer Exxon Mobile and the State 50 pigs as initial sign of peace effort and cash payment of K700,000 to be divided equally to seven sections of the village. They include Aru-itu, Dogu 1, Dogu 2, Poini, Miritanamo, Kahi and others.

The villagers gave a 14-days ultimatum.

The Porebada people have called for the removal of police personal on the borders of their traditional land because there have been constant harassment of traditional landowners and unnecessary discharging of high powered firearms that scared off villages going about their daily activities. They also called for the sacking of Central Provincial Police Commander for being ineffective in facilitating the peace process.

The villagers also demanded fair treatment, equitable participation and fair distribution of project benefits and the Minister to make a ministerial determination for 25%. They also demanded the developer Exxon Mobile and the State to refrain from contacting Sir Moi Avei for talks on the LNG Project as he is being investigated by authorities over his alleged involvement in the fight.

The Porebada villagers also demanded that the Church be part of the negotiations to safeguard the interests of the voiceless at the grassroots level.

The recognised members of the Porebada task force committee are Lohia Koani, Helai Morea, Seri Asi, Lohia Bodibo, Baru Vagi, Nohokau Lohia, Arua Soge, Gorogo Riu, Tara Gau and Rev. Baru Arua. The committee was set up to hold a roundtable conference with Governor Alphonse Moroi yesterday but the outcome of the meeting is yet to be known.

Meanwhile, Governor Moroi thanked the people of Porebada and their leaders for a very detailed petition.

He said he was humbled and saddened by the tragedy and the manner in which the people had gone through last week and how they had handled the issue.

Governor Moroi thanked the leaders for highlighting some of the prominent issues that formed part of the petition.

He said as leaders they would take up the petition with appropriate authorities but that would happen without the support of leaders who have put it together.

The two leaders Mr Moroi and Mr Aihi have made a commitment that they would give their support throughout until the problem is resolved.

Mr Aihi said they will pursue this until the people are fully compensated and warned the people not to release any statement to any person.

He questioned why the police haven't made any arrests yet. Mr Aihi said he agreed to the petition that the developer Exxon Mobile should stop work until the mess is sorted out.

Mr Aihi called on the National Court to expedite all hearings on land issues on state portion 152 as this was part of the problem.

Brown urges PM to remove Tiensten

2010-02-14T08:48:00.000+10:00

A LONG time politician, and former premier and Member of Parliament and Minister, Sinai Brown has called on the Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare to immediately remove Paul Tiensten as Minister for National Planning.

Mr Brown who was the former NGI leader of National Alliance party made the call alleging that everyday money is leaving the National Planning and Monitoring department and is unaccounted for.

He revealed that last week K80 million left the National Planning and the staff of National Planning and Finance are concerned that these funds are being spent on unbudgeted activities without proper scoping, and without following the proper government's procurement processes.

Mr Brown alleged the governor for Manus received two lots of payments. First was K700, 000 last week and more recently on Wednesday 10th February 2010, he once again received another K10 million under the pretext of fisheries project. Both these funds were not scoped and costed. Proper government procurement processes was not followed under the Public Finance Management Act. These funds were from various other activities pulled in together so that Mr Tiensten can give it to Mr Sapau to get his support.

Similar activities were used in East New Britain province (ENBP) where K30 million was spent. The people of ENBP are now asking whether or not these funds were scoped and costed.

Mr Brown said he was reliably informed that K80 million had been allocated to a province in the Momase region.

He said all these indicate that the Prime Minister must quickly remove Paul Tiensten from the Planning Ministry because the longer he stays, more money will leave the government coffers.

The former MP alleged that Mr Tiensten is using National Planning funds as his private account. He called on all NGI governors to be careful and to fight this type of practice as it amounts to bribery and corruption.

"They should not accept any cheques delivered direct to them. All cheques should be delivered to the head of the provincial administration."

Mr Brown also called on all other government agencies such as the Ombudsman Commission and Transparency International to speak out against these types of practices because they all boarders on bribery and corruption.

He reiterated that Planning Ministry is for NGI. Now the regional member for Bougainville, Fidelis Semoso has been appointed as NA leader for NGI, and anything Paul Tiensten does is irrelevant.

Mr Brown said that Mr Semoso has the support of all NA supporters of the region especially chiefs from his home province, in Bougainville.

Further, Mr Brown has called on the Ombudsman Commission to investigate the purchase of two second hand boats for K6.5 million each totalling K13 million allegedly for the people of Kandrian and Pomio district. The first cheque NO.40607, serial number 239661 dated 4th December 2009 for the K6.5 million. Both cheques were written in favour of Sarakolok West Transport Limited.

Mr Brown said that preliminary checks have suggested that the two boats should not cost more than K2.3 million each but much bigger boats.

"If that is the case, then where is the balance of the money? How will the Pomio people benefit?" he queried adding that "evidence has also shown that one of the boat is registered and owned by the principal of Sarakolok Transport Limited, a private company and not Pomio District Services. The second boat for Kandrian District is yet to be delivered. The question is does the people of Kandrian and Pomio own the boats?"

He called on the governor for ENBP, Leo Dion and the Ombudsman Commission to investigate these transactions for possible breaches under the leadership code.

However, Minister Tiensten in responding to the allegations said he is not surprised about all these allegations and has welcomed the call by Mr Brown and his exclusive club of governors and followers for investigations by Ombudsman or Transparency International in to the so called allegations.

NA Manus chapter demands apology

2010-02-14T08:39:00.002+10:00

THE NATIONAL Alliance Manus Executive arm and its political wing on behalf of the people of Manus is demanding an apology from former politician Sinai Brown for accusing them on the National EMTV news on Thursday, 11 February 2010 that they have gained from the current situation of the NA NGI saga.
The Parliamentary leader of NA Manus branch and regional member for Manus, Michael Sapau, the Chairman Francis Posanau and branch secretary Hilary Malai in a joint press statement have condemned Mr Brown for his short sighted and ill conceived accusations and demanded him to apologize.

They said the two projects he was accusing the people of Manus are well documented and are in the possession of the planning office.

"We call on him to call in person at the planning office and pick a copy of the documents for himself or he can get a copy from our governor."

"These projects documents were designed by the well educated sons of Manus and even Sinai Brown himself cannot understand the scope of the project so he should shut his mouth and hide himself in shame.

"This clearly shows a sign of desperate man demeaning his status as one of the respected leaders of the region. The people of Manus want to know what he has done for them when he was in the Planning Ministry," they said.

The executives said whilst the Manus branch is trying its best to restore peace and harmony in the region, Mr Brown is adding more fire by accusing the Manus people.

They said Mr Brown must come out clear and tell the supporters of the party as to his quality in restoring peace in the region adding that "if he cannot use his leadership quality to restore peace he should shut up and go and hide in his famous Warangoi Club Mill and concentrate in running his own business as a private citizen."

"We are beginning to see now that this issue is not really a regional one but one that belongs to the ENB politicians. Pride and strife for survival and prominence for greater wealth by greedy few is now ruining the quality of peace for once loving NGI people.

"We also appeal to the media to do proper research to prove allegations before going to the press.

"Mr Brown is not an elected leader anymore and we appeal to him not to spoil the name of good leadership of the region."

Somare - State enterprises to meet growing demands

2010-02-14T08:38:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

THE K300 million Port Moresby sewerage project will soon be developed at Joyce Bay near Kila Kila village to ease problems faced in the capital. The multi-million kina project is being funded by the Japanese government.

State Enterprises Minister, Arthur Somare was given a whirlwind tour of the project site including Portion 152 near the PNG LNG plant site in Central province and the Mt Eriama water treatment plant outside Port Moresby on Wednesday.

"It is Eda Ranu's social responsibility to provide decent water source to our rural people. With the impact of the PNG LNG project, the government through Eda Ranu is ready to do that," State Enterprises Minister, Arthur Somare said.

The Minister confirmed that demands of the PNG LNG project are massive and the government ensures that all State-owned Enterprises meet those demands. This was start of his familiarization visits to all SOEs to guide them into par with the current demands.

"The State-owned Enterprises (SOE) must build their capacity and resources to deliver. We are entering a phase of development never seen before," Mr. Somare said.

He said that a conducive environment for investors, developers and business houses is needed for them to operate effectively. The SOEs have the potential to become independent and self-sustaining with proper management and regulations to guide them.

The minister said that it was important for him to have a fair idea and understanding of all the State-owned Enterprises including PNG Power, Air Niugini, Eda Ranu and PNG Water Board so important decisions can be made.

"With these developments, SOEs must step up and be effective in the delivery of vital services such as water and power," the minister said.

The minister, the board and management of Eda Ranu and representatives from the media organizations visited water plant sites including the proposed sewerage treatment plant in Joyce Bay, proposed water supply pipeline to PNG LNG project at the junction of Porebada-Papa/Lealea in Central province, the Waigani reservoir and the Mt Eriama treatment plant.

The actual construction of the Port Moresby sewerage plant will begin in 2012. When completed the 300 million kina project will house some state-of-the art facilities, including research and monitoring centers.

"The outlet will be extended to 30 meter felly deep into the ocean," Billy Imar, Managing director of Eda Ranu told Minister Arthur at the proposed site.

Kas calls for probe into Ramu project

2010-02-14T08:23:00.000+10:00

Mr Kas wants probe into Ramu Nickel and Cobalt project prior to mine commissioning

By HENZY YAKHAM

FORMER Madang Governor Jim Kas has supported calls for a full inquiry into the awarding of the multibillion kina Ramu Nickel and Cobalt project China Metallugical Construction Company (MCC) before the commissioning of the mine.

Mr Kas said the Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare should take serious heed of the calls and concerns raised various landowner and community leaders.

He said the terms of reference of the inquiry should among others probe into:

* Why the project agreement was signed in China and not in Papua New Guinea as in the case for other projects;

* Establish the real value of the project;

* If the approved mine tailings disposal plan conformed to accepted world standards;

* Potential damages to the marine environment as a result of direct disposal of sentiments into the Basamuk Bay;

* Possibilities of commissioning an independent assessment on the whole project by PNG experts;

* If the landowners and local government councils in the project area were properly consulted; and

* The level of royalties, spin-off and employment opportunities of the local people and communities;

Mr Kas said as a leader from the province, he was very concerned that there are many important issues and unanswered questions that need to be sorted out before the commissioning of the mine.

"No slurry should be piped from Kurumbukari down to and disposed directly into Basamuk Bay until a full inquiry deals with all outstanding issues and concerns.

"The Government is not only duty bound, but has a moral responsibility to ensure that the wishes and aspirations of the people in project areas are properly addressed.

"I firmly believe that our own industry experts know many things that could well surface in a commission of inquiry," Mr Kas stressed.

He said this when supporting former Usino-Bundi MP Theo Tuya's call for the government to set up a commission of inquiry into the awarding of the project to MCC.

Mr Tuya had said that he was also shocked to learn from industry experts that the actual value of the Ramu Nickel and Cobalt project was K92 billion and not K1.7 billion as announced by the current Somare government and MMC.

His comments followed statements by high-flying PNG Geologist Jerry Gerry in Afghanistan and PHD student Geologist Paul Kia in Akita University, Japan.

Recent media reports alleged that the developer robbed the mineral deposits because the current National Alliance-led Government did not have the necessary negotiating capacity in signing the Mine Development Agreement.

Mr Kas stressed the in view of the well informed comments by industry experts and knowledgeable leaders as well as increasing landowner concerns, it was incumbent on the Sir Michael to set up an inquiry to deal with and recommend ways to resolve all outstanding issues.

He said: "Ramu is a very important project and only a commission of inquiry can establish if all due processes and procedures were strictly adhered to in the whole negotiation process eventual signing of the project in China".

"Why was the project signing done in China and not at the Government House or Port Moresby or in Madang," he asked.

As well, the former governor urged people in the project in Usino-Bundi and Rai Coast electorates to stand united and pressure the Government to resolve all outstanding issues and concerns prior to the commencement of actual production.

Mr Kas warned that failure to resolving these concerns could result in more serious problems in future.

Mr Kas wants probe into Ramu Nickel and Cobalt project prior to mine commissioning

Revival Centres of PNG troubles far from over

2010-02-14T08:16:00.000+10:00

SIX more leaders of the Revival Centres of PNG church in Port Moresby have resigned and a nation-wide split of the fellowship is looming as a faction of the Port Moresby assembly prepares to petition the Principal Pastor Godfrey Wippon to reinstate all pastors of the Port Moresby Assembly and remove newly appointed Regional Pastor, Daniel Tounei from Port Moresby Assembly.

The petition is drafted by current leaders within the Port Moresby Assembly of the fellowship and is expected to give the principal pastor the authority to immediately reinstate all pastors of the Port Moresby fellowship or risk splitting the fellowship nation-wide.

Pastors in the provinces have been informed and are awaiting the results of this petition before they can move to change the banners of their fellowships if the demands of their Port Moresby counterparts are not met.

The troubles of this once fast-growing fellowship began when the Principal Pastor and his team of Senior pastors came to Port Moresby in April 2009, to carry out an 'urgent national seekers' after which they promised the members of the fellowship in Port Moresby that "they will break the roof and be at the top". To date, so much has happened to the contrary. From 4000 members attending each Sunday, the numbers have gone down to around 1, 500 members.

"They promised us that we will break the roof and be at a new level spiritually and physically. But look at what has happened. Many people have left the fellowship and instead of breaking the roof and reaching a new level, we are going down," said a member of the fellowship.

The appointment of the new Regional Pastor is rubbing salt-to-the-wound. There has been long running disagreement between Pastors from Lumi and those from other parts of PNG. The new District Pastor is from Lumi in the Sandaun province.

A leader of the fellowship was also recently forced to resign from his leadership role for making reference to the Revival Centres of PNG as a "Lumi' church.

"You see, they are really using threat and intimidation against their members now. All spiritual common sense have departed from them and they are using threats," said a former Pastor of the fellowship.

Western Highlands parents call for leniency with fees

2010-02-14T08:12:00.000+10:00

AS THE 2010 academic year began last week for most education institutions around the country people affected by the recent natural disaster in the Western Highlands province are calling upon the education authorities and institutions to be lenient with them.

The people from the worst affected areas such as Dirtywara and Kondipena in the Dei District are calling upon the various education institutions via the provincial administration to consider those students coming from the affected areas.

A mother of four Mrs Sipora Mekpi said their family's only source of income was from garden produces and pigs to pay for school fees and other community contributions and family needs.

And she said recent flooding at Dirtywara has destroyed most of her food and coffee gardens, which are still under water now, and she also lost four big pigs along with five piglets during the flooding.

Mrs Mekpi said the four big pigs worth about K1,000 would have earned her K4,000 which is sufficient for her four children's fees and other family needs. However, she has lost everything to the floods.

To make matters worse, her only semi permanent house was under water making it impossible for the family to settle down properly and work for the students school fees.

Her first born son Charlie will be doing grade nine this year at Togoba Secondary school while Jessy and Jerusa John will be attending Kenembo Primary school doing grades six and two respectively and Lee Degl who attends Enkal Primary will be in grade five.

Mrs Mekpi said that the current policy of paying half or more than half of the school fees before enrolling students will now be a major problem faced by the parents who have lost almost everything in the recent natural disaster.

A dow hearted Mrs Mekpi said as it was a natural disaster, an unexpected event, most parents were betting on the sale of their pigs and the garden produces to pay for their children's school fees and this will not be the case now.

Theresa Peng, another mother from Dirtywara in the Dei district also shared the same sentiments, adding that her four grown pigs were all washed away including four piglets while her food garden is still underwater.

Mrs. Peng has three children all attending primary school and she said finding their school fees would be a difficult thing to do now as she has no cash to pay for the children's education.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Secretary for Education in the province Mr. Hans Gima said special consideration will be given to those parents from the recently affected natural disaster areas.

Mr. Gima further added that parents must show some form of evidence by way of written letters from their local councillors as well as reports confirming the loss of properties from the provincial disaster office.

He added that education for the children is a right and thus his office will not deny this right, adding that he will do his utmost to assist those parents through special arrangement with their respective schools that their children attend.

Reports reaching the provincial disaster office revealed that with the continuous rainy season being experienced in the province, the level of water is rising everyday and people have been warned to take extra precaution.