Post Courier, Wednesday February 18, 2015

Prostitutes clash over over territory

Local sex workers say A sians Local sex workers say Asians ‘undercutting’ their income ‘undercutting’ their income base or clients base or

BY GORETHY KENNETH

PROSTITUTION in the country is on the rise, especially in major centres and already there is a call for the industry to be legalised.

And sex workers in the nation’s capital, who have spoken to the Post-Courier, want the Government to recognise them, as they claim the Asian sex worker market is also

increasing in PNG. It is “undercutting” their means of generating income and fending for themselves in the city, they claim.

The statistics of the industry are not known, especially in the NCD, but there are about 22 locations which they operate from in the city – men and women included.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Work towards decriminalising prostitution?

THEincreasing cost of living in Papua New Guinea’s main urban centres is putting a lot of pressure on ordinary Papua New Guineans.

Many working men and women are doing what some call “side work” in order to earn extra money to feed themselves and their families. Times are tough and it is not getting any easier for them. There is no doubt increasing poverty in PNG cities and main urban centres are forcing a lot of men and women into prostitution.

Our story in today’s edition of the Post-Courier gives an insight into the secret lives of prostitutes in the National Capital District and the challenges that they continue to face while plying their trade. Despite condemnation by the various churches and being shunned by the public, including their families, prostitution continues to flourish in PNG cities and main urban centres. We believe it is time for the Government to revisit the issue in close consultation with donors, churches and non-government organisations. They should look at the prospect of decriminalising the world’s oldest profession in this country. There are three major reasons for us to go down that path: (a) addressing the increasing incidence of HIV/AIDS in PNG (b) tackling the high rates of gender violence and (c) protecting underage children from child trafficking and abuse.

HIV prevalence amongst adults in PNG is estimated to be 1 per cent with infection rates higher among high risk groups. The National AIDS Council last year picked out female sex workers, males having sex with males and the trans-gender as the vulnerable groups in PNG that needed the attention of authorities. Legalising prostitution will enable authorities to regulate working conditions as well as ensure strict hygiene and health protocols are adhered to. The protocols would include regular health checks including tests for sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS. While there is no clear link between the decriminalising of prostitution and a drop in cases of sexual violence, debate continues around the world on research showing a correlation between the two. A paper published in the United States in July last year highlighted the link between the decriminalisation of prostitution and a drop in sexual violence and incidence of gonorrhoea amongst the Rhode Island’s population. A 1986 PNG Law Reform Commission report estimates close to 70 per cent of women assaulted by their husbands.

The continued criminalising of prostitution also puts at risk the safety of young PNG boys and girls who are part of the profession. A survey on child labour in Port Moresby in 2011 conducted by the International Labour Organisation in partnership with the PNG Government interviewed 175 child sex workers. Most of them were girls and some started the trade as early as at 10-years of age. The survey found evidence of the children being trafficked by their guardians and parents. Legalising and regulating the profession will ensure only consenting adults stay in the industry. We note the comments of Community Development Minister Delilah Gore on this particular issue and acknowledge challenges that her department will face in its strive to address the issues. We believe it is a conversation that should be held with maturity and should begin now with the relevant stakeholders.

Index

Asia news .............................32

Bougainville Today ..............18

Business ..........................19-22

Classifieds .......................36-47

Comics..................................35

Highlands Post.....................15

Home news...............4-9, 12-13

Islands Post .........................17

Mamose Post .......................16

Pacfic news .....................30-31

Southern Post ......................14

Sport ................................49-51

Stars ......................................39

Sudoku .................................39

The drum ...............................3

Turf Guide .............................48

World news...........................33

Yu tok ...............................10-11

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Teachers’ conditions, facilities must improve

By GRACE AUKA SALMANG TEACHERS’ terms and

infrastruc-

conditions, school

tures and curriculum development must be improved in order to capture the student’s interest to attend and keep them in school, says an Education Department official.

“It is a two-way thing; we have to make children happy by providing a conducive environment for

them to be in the classroom to be educated,” he said. Head of policy and corporate services Uke Kombra said everyone, from the household level to the political level, must play a role in the education of PNG.

At the meeting on the outof-school initiative meeting that is underway, he said to ensure that all children receive fundamental rights to education, targeted issue of out of school populations

was crucial. He said there were issues raised by parents and students that absenteeism of teachers was common in some of the schools that made students give up attending school, bad classroom conditions’ and curriculum changes that did not capture a child’s interest were some of the factors that needed to be considered.

“Tackling the issue of

out of school children simply cannot be addressed through a one-dimensional; detailed analysis, targeted interventions and advocacy efforts must stretch across different ministries and across different sectors.

“We need to consider how many classrooms we have to build, how many teachers we have to have, policies and planning makers to address this issue,” Mr Kombra said.

Sex workers call for govt recognition

FROM PAGE 1

IN the other centres like Mount Hagen, East New Britain, Madang, New Ireland, Lae and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville where demand and statistics are known, they also operate on an ad hoc basis.

Minister for Religion, Youth and Community Development Delilah Gore said yesterday PNG was full of Christian churches which would go against decriminalisation of prostitution but added that, like everyone else, sex workers belonged in a society and

that the Government was working on a social protection law that would also cover them. She did not elaborate.

In Port Moresby, they are categorised as low-class, middle-class and high-class local sex workers and operate in locations including hotels and inns in the suburbs.

One leader of the highclass Papua New Guineans who helps these groups, not divulging too much information, told the Post-Courier that the industry was booming but faced a growing threat by the large numbers of Asian sex workers com-

ing into the country.

“Of course, we have to take into account the Christian values and principles we live by in PNG but hey, we are growing and becoming an economic leader and more and more people are coming into PNG, even our very own Papua New Guineans are already into this market,” she said (name withheld for security reasons).

“We have to face it and recognise these group as one of ours too.

“We will be liaising closely with the responsible authorities to see if we can have our say in our society

because this is one part of the group that … you may not believe it, but we are elites and we serve others but in a way Papua New Guineans will see it as promiscuous.

“But they mean well, most fend for themselves and also serve those in need.

“Like the gays and the lesbians, this group also wants their say.”

Two influential middleclass sex workers told the Post-Courier they were feeling threatened because most of their customers were being “hijacked by cheap Asian prostitutes” who are newcomers to PNG cities.

DEDICATION SERVICE

Govt introduces law for wealth fund

BY ISAAC NICHOLAS

THE GOVERNMENT has got the ball rolling for the creation of the Sovereign Wealth Fund to safeguard the country’s wealth for future generations.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill yesterday introduced the Organic Law to set up the Sovereign Wealth Fund, which will safeguard the nation’s wealth from its petroleum and mineral resources.

The proposed law is now before the Constitutional Laws and Sub-Ordinate Legislation Committee of Parliament to deliberate on before it is tabled for debate.

The SWF was to be established before the export

The bottom line

At a glance

SWF: The Sovereign Wealth Fund would manage funds flowing into it for the benefit of current and future generation of citizens.

SUB FUNDS: The Stabilisation Fund and the Savings Fund. THE ORGANIC LAW: Provides for how funds would flow into the SWF and its sub funds and how and when funds can be drawn down for use.

of gas from the PNG LNG Project began.

But the Organic Law was delayed after defects were detected in a previous version that was passed by Parliament in 2014, but not

gazetted for enactment.

According to draft legislation sighted by the PostCourier, the Organic Law introduced by the Prime Minister would establish the SWF, which would manage funds flowing into it for the benefit of current and future generation of citizens.

The SWF would have two sub funds – the stabilisation fund, and the savings fund.

The fund would be managed by an independent board and very reputable funds managers that would not be subject to any control or direction of any minister or the NEC.

The decisions of the board and managers are expected to be independent and in accordance with world’s best practice.

The organic law provides for how funds would flow into the SWF and its sub funds, and how and when funds could be drawn down for use for development and investment purposes.

It sets out the functions and membership of the board, and how they are appointed.

It also provides the qualifications for appointment, so persons appointed are not only qualified but also have high integrity and good reputation.

The delay in the establishment of the SWF has drawn concerns by both international as well as local commentators relating to the “Dutch Disease” and to avoid that is through the establishment of the SWF.

DEALS

YOU wonder if this has become modus operandi in the bureaucracy. Hohola residents saw two vehicles drive in. The vehicles’ drivers stepped out, exchanged and signed papers before promptly parting ways.

SIGNING

THE “transaction” occurred last Thursday at around 9am. The Asian driver of a grey-coloured Toyota Prado brought out the papers. They were signed by a local driving a white 5-Door with a government plate.

DODGY

THE residents couldn’t help but conclude this prompt meeting had all the hallmarks of a dodgy deal. Why sign documents in a little-known suburb they ask? Registration details of both vehicles can be supplied.

the Jackson airport in the national capital. There is no guarantee of its security –even at a closely monitored aerodrome – as this picture shows.

ALL WEATHER

THE Drum on the sorry state of the flags outside the National Library in the NCD caught the eye of an observer. He reckons the Enga, East Sepik, Manus and Western flags stood the test so are weather-proof!

SENSITIVE

THE same couldn’t be said of the one on Independence Hill. It was in tatters until last week when it was replaced by National Parliament staff. It’s our 40th birthday folks so let’s be super sensitive.

BEHAVE

RELOCATE

CAN City Hall make a decision on the continued use of the Unagi Oval as a temporary bus stop? PMV buses have literally taken over the sporting facility, somewhat marginalising the city’s sporting fraternity.

CAUTION

VEHICLE owners have to be wary of leaving their cars at

SOCIAL media now ensures PNG government bodies and agents are under more scrutiny than ever before. Civil servants need to ensure that they are above reproach and their actions legal.

WRONG

HENCE when close to 15 policemen opt to move around the city crowded in a Toyota Land Cruiser sitting and standing then something obviously is wrong. Is that why traffic cops no longer work?

PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

In 1958, a nuclear bomb was lost somewhere along the swampy coast of Georgia. Its whereabouts remain a mystery to this day.

BOUGAINVILLE public servants turned up in numbers yesterday for their dedication service. They are seen here reading the public servants declaration at the service.

Review of law to align schools

BY SHIRLYN BELDEN

THE current review of the Education Act intends to set consistency in the education standards used by private and public schools, an official says.

This means that private schools which are on different standards in terms of curriculum, teacher recruitment, school fees or teaching systems would have to be evaluated so that the education system and standard used were aligned with the recognised government formulated system.

According to the officer, the department was strategic with its approach in reforming the education standard where private schools could operate in line with the Government requirements and standard.

“Private schools use the PNG curriculum but they are not managed or monitored by the Education Department or the Government. They operate within their own standard in terms of teacher recruitment, school fees, student enrolment or teaching approach,” the officer said.

Private schools are run with no affiliation to the Government standard while permitted schools are privately managed but recognised by the Education Department.

The officer also confirmed that many of these schools were being established everywhere and the review would take into account their establishments.

The officer told the PostCourier that most private schools had been operating without recognition from the Government, let alone some were not using the regular standard set by the Education Department.

There had been widespread concern that many private schools had been operating like this for years and because of the limited spaces in public schools parents were forced to enroll their children in these schools and footing high school fees with under-staffed and under-trained teachers.

IN THE EYES OF POLICE

Gov to roll out open universities in districts

BY NELLIE SETEPANO MINISTER

for Higher Educa-

tion Malakai Tabar says the open universities plan will be subject to change and will be implemented in all districts around the country.

Mr Tabar was answering a question from Ijivitari MP

David Arore in Parliament yesterday about what had become of the open university concept that he as the previous minister had introduced.

This is an institution intended to look after materials, contents and programs of universities, he said.

At a glance

CONTENTS: The open universities concept is intended to provide materials, contents and programs of universities.

CONDITION: Provincial governments and districts have to give counter funding from their PSIP and DSIP funds for the establishment of open universities in all the 89 districts throughout the country.

Mr Tabar said he had a look at the concept and did not agree with it.

He told Parliament that the concept was discussed among heads of universities who argued that the concept would take away the independence and autonomy of universi-

ties. Instead, Mr Tabar said the Government has plans for PNG open universities to be established in 89 districts but was waiting for further endorsement from PNG Telikom for this program to go ahead.

The minister said he would

be re-visiting the old concept and would be asking each MP for assistance from PSIP and DSIP as their part in this project.

Mr Tabar also said there was increased accessibility by students to tertiary institutions as a result of increase in new tertiary institutions.

Kundiawa-Gembogl MP Tobias Kulang had asked what the Government’s plan was to address the alarming high rate of out-of-school students.

He said in 2007-14 there was increase in secondary schools from 82 to 129.

In 2013, 17,460 students set for examinations in which

4614 were selected to higher institutions. In 2014 a total of 19,828 students set for Grade 12 examinations and 5628 students were eligible for spaces for tertiary institutions. That was an increase by 1014, (21 per cent).

He said more plans to improve access to education as K62.5 million government’s funding for eight universities was appropriated for this year.

He told Parliament that leaders need to see respective districts and make it their responsibility to look after the out of school students and put them into schools.

STUDENTS of Tokarara and Dela Salle Secondary schools exchanging punches yesterday afternoon in front of the Waigani police station while bystanders watch. School fights like this and cult practices are two big problems still faced by most schools in the city. Picture: KENNEDY BANI

The concept of open university will bring universities to the door steps of those in rural areas.

Mobile phones bad, says teacher

BY MEROLYN TEN

MOBILE phones are a big distraction to students during study periods and parents should stop their children taking them to school, says one Port Moresby head teacher.

Kellie Kemali of Hagara

Primary School in Moresby Northwest electorate said this yesterday after noticing that her students’ performances were not up to standard and expectations.

“Even though it is a very important medium of communication, children nowadays are misusing it and distracting themselves from their school studies,” Ms Kemali said.

The head teacher said because of mobile phones, social media had become superior and as a result students were not taking education seriously.

“Most parents are very ignorant and not serious in disciplining their children but at the end of the year, they come crying and questioning teachers when things go wrong or when their children do not get a placing in their next level of education.

“Parents must start monitoring their children and

Morobe school principal slams report

NAWAEB High School’s principal has slammed media reports alleging poor management of funds allocated for infrastructure buildings at the school.

Gobuta Koiseng said the report was incorrect, adding that the reporter had mistakenly named the school as Nawaeb High School.

Mr Koiseng said the reporter had failed to confirm the information before publishing, only tarnishing the image of the school, especially teachers and the board of management.

But he commended statements that Nawaeb High School had done extremely well with academic results last year.

“I must commend the teaching staff and board of management for their commitment that resulted in a good number of our students securing places at secondary schools,” he said.

restrict them with the use mobile phones because students give most of their time to mobile phones than to their studies at night hours, especially,” she said.

Ms Kemali said also, parents should not buy mobile phones for their children but start drawing timetables and monitor their children during free time so that they could take education more seriously.

“By doing that the children would be able to get good grades,” she added.

“There is no reason for students to carry mobile phones around in school areas or use during study period, except on holidays,” Ms Kemali said.

WHO SCREAMS FOR ICE CREAM?

Mr Koiseng said there were no misuse of any funds as stated in the media.

“I believe he was talking about the new Boana Technical School which is currently sitting idle without any work being done as a result of mismanagement of funds,” he said.

He said Nawaeb High School had done extremely well during last year in academic terms with a record number of grade 10’s securing spaces in various secondary schools in the country. Meanwhile a spokesperson from the Nawaeb MP’s office, on behalf of the MP, apologised to Nawaeb High School principal, teachers and the board of management for the report.

Teachers undergo standard-based education training

BY MELISHA YAFOI

ELEMENTARY school teachers and coordinators throughout the country are currently undergoing a two week workshop on standard-

The bottom line

base education (SBE).

The SBE program will come into effect as of next Monday in schools throughout the country including Morobe Province.

The national Government

through the Education Department had decided to re-introduce the SBE program following the failure of the outcomes-based education (OBE) curriculum.

The OBE was discovered

to be non-effective, resulting in a drop in learning among school children in the country. Morobe education chairman Andrew Gena told participants at the opening

yesterday that the OBE curriculum was not good for the students learning and that was why so many students in the country have missed out on furthering their studies.

Education is the driving force in training professionals that will bring new developments, therefore the Education Department must look carefully at the needs of the teachers,” he said.

Even though it is a very important medium of communication, children nowadays are misusing it ...

KELLIE KEMALI Port Moresby

Knee, hip surgeries localised

THE Kundiawa General Hospital in Chimbu Province will perform knee and hip replacement surgeries with local specialists within the next couple of years.

Knee and hip replacement surgeries are two complicated and delicate areas in orthopaedic surgery which are done overseas but the Kundiawa hospital has made it possible through a twinning arrangement with the Puszczykowie hospital in Poznan, Poland, last year.

Two orthopaedic surgeons came and did surgeries for two weeks in August last year and one last week by Dr Peter Jeske, a specialist in orthopaedic surgery.

The team last year composing Drs Blazej Ciesielcyzk and Jakub Kucharski did 15 major operations which included five hip replacements while Dr Jeske did one hip and one knee replacement. Dr Jeske presented medical equipment needed for hip and knee surgeries to the hospital last week.

Marape admits lack of accurate school data

BY ISAAC NICHOLAS

FINANCE Minister James Marape has admitted that there are no accurate statistics on school enrolment figures but the fact is that there may still be space in our schools.

He said the point he was stressing at the recent education conference in Port Moresby was there is a need for expansion of space and the Government was aware of that and had for the first time allocated a total of K623 million to districts and provinces designated for education under the DSIP and

City NGO continues to help street kids

BY MAUREEN GERAWA

A BOY selling plastic bottles and cans is among other street children who have been put to school this year by the WeCARe Foundation. WeCARe stands for Women and Children at Risk and is a non-governmental organisation that does more than care for street kids.

It has programs for vulnerable women such as unemployed young women with children, the disabled and orphans.

In response to comments made in Parliament by Minister for Religion, Youth and Community Development Delilah Gore on street children, WeCare’s Mrs Dromenge said these children were not only orphans but those deliberately on the street by their parents.

“For instance, WeCARe is now supporting and putting two kids in Koki Primary School. The boy was collecting plastic bottles and cans to sell. We followed him to his home and found out that his father is disabled,’’ she said.

“The boy and his sister lived with their disabled father. They rely on what their relatives can give otherwise they go hungry, so the little boy was out on the street trying to get something to help the family.”

The boy is now in school, thanks to a sponsor who is also paying for his school uniforms and food.

At a glance

MR

SPACES: Marape says, there is a need for expansion of space and the Government was aware of that.

PSIP.

“Let me be the first to admit, we don’t have accurate statistics, it could be one million, it might be 600,000 or it might be less, but the fact of the matter is that there may still be capacity spaces in schools, that over time we have ignored so in the last

three years we have systematically trying to expand the spaces.”

“The aim of the government is sometimes very soon in our life, we must have 100 per cent of our children going into a school in elementary and they only come out in Grade 12 and then we feed

them into an expanded tertiary level.”

“That is our aim, we must give opportunity to all schools, no one must be left behind, whether its disable, blind, irrespective of gender or disability, every child born into Papua New Guinea must be educated.”

“The point is we need to expand infrastructure so that we create space so that no student comes out of Grades 8, 10 and 12 and find that there is no space for them to continue simply because of no infrastructure that will sit them in classrooms or house teachers to teach.

“We want all districts and provinces to embark on a plan in the education sector to increase infrastructure so that we have increase space.”

Mr Marape said the Government responsibility in terms of infrastructure was in colleges and universities.

He said technical colleges were allocated K40 million, teachers colleges (K40 million), nursing colleges K40 million, national high schools K25 million, Flexible Open Learning K5.2 million and universities infrastructure rehabilitation K62.5 million.

“The boy and the girl are both in school, doing Grade three at Koki Primary. This is just one case where we helped. We have tried to put the father in income generation to help the family,’’ said Mrs Dromenge.

The other two disabled children that WeCARe supports were selling stuff at Boroko. They live at Sabama, one of them was blind and he is usually led by his young brother. They come from a dysfunctional family.

“For most of them it is the family situation at home or wherever they live that forced them onto the streets.”

DR Jeske (middle) with Fr Jowarski and theatre staff examining the new equipment.

MARAPE: has admitted that there are no accurate statistics on school enrolment figures but the fact is, there may still be spaces in schools.

is a dream for the wise, a game for the fool, a comedy for the rich and a tragedy for the poor by Sholom Aleichem.

Sir Michael presents K265m East Sepik budget

GOVERNOR for East Sepik Sir Michael Somare yesterday presented the East Sepik Provincial Government’s K265 million budget to the Government in Port Moresby.

Sir Michael, who is PNG’s first and former prime minister, presented the budget to Treasurer Patrick Pruaitch at the Parliament House yesterday.

Sir Michael said high on the agenda for the 2015 budget for East Sepik was the local level government capacity building, law and order and land mobilisation for investment and infrastructure upgrade.

He said the budget also looked at health, education and rural development of East Sepik Province.

“It’s a service delivery budget,” he said.

“It was passed last week by the East Sepik Provincial Assembly and that’s why I am presenting it today (yesterday).”

Deputy Governor for East Sepik Ian Samuel was also in Parliament yesterday to witness Sir Michael presenting the budget to Treasurer Pruaitch.

Governor commends Oro admin

NORTHERN Governor Gary Juffa has commended the Northern provincial administration in its efforts to continue improving its control measures and systems of review and monitoring.

He said in a media statement that the reforms he had initiated would step up this year and beyond.

Mr Juffa made the comments upon receiving briefing updates from acting provincial administrator John Pai who has continued with the reforms implemented by his predecessor. The reforms include the creation of a provincial supply and tenders board and the establishment of the disciplinary committee and regular meetings of the internal audit committee.

For the first time, the Northern provincial government had called for tenders for all PSIP projects and also infrastructure projects funded under the recurrent budget.

The process of procurement and selection is near completion, Mr Juffa said. Meanwhile, the disciplinary committee had met several times already and several public servants have been disciplined.

The Governor commended the disciplinary committee for its efforts and had expressed satisfaction that the administration was undergoing a change for the better.

Mr Juffa has also confirmed that the Oro administration would be receiv-

Govt serious on logging damages

BY GORETHY KENNETH

ENVIRONMENT Minister

John Pundari yesterday told Parliament that the Government is seriously and aggressively pursuing issues relating to environmental damages caused by logging operations throughout Papua New Guinea.

Mr Pundari said this while responding to questions raised by West New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel on whether there were plans from the Environment and Conservation Department to monitor damages to environment due to logging throughout the country,” Mr Muthuvel said.

“WNB does not do enough monitoring on environmental damages from logging operation.

“The logging industry is highly prevalent in West New Britain but there is no effective monitoring of the logging activities to protect the environment.

“As a provincial government, we do not have enough capacity to monitor all those logging activities in very remote locations in West New Britain.”

Mr Pundari agreed that this is a big problem and the Government is addressing it.

At a glance

REFORMED AREAS: The reforms include the creation of a provincial supply and tenders board and the establishment of the disciplinary committee and regular meetings of the internal audit committee.

ing substantial assistance from the Department of Personnel Management and the Australian Government in developing effective and efficient service delivery mechanisms and developing and implementing good governance programs.

He also indicated that there would be a step-up in the efforts to investigate and prosecute individuals who have defrauded the Oro people as highlighted in various investigations and audit reports tabled by various organisations, including the Auditor-General, Treasury and Finance inspectors and internal audit and police investigation reports during the past 10 years.

“Many individuals got very rich at the expense of the people. No stone will be unturned. For too long Oro has been a cowboy town with criminal elements involved in substantial fraud and literally getting away without anyone doing a single thing, I intend to change that,” he said.

SIR Michael (centre) presenting the K265 million Budget for 2015 for East Sepik to Treasurer Patrick Pruaitch (right) while Deputy Governor Ian Samuel looks on in Parliament yesterday.

Court annuls land re-zoning

Parkop pleased with decision

A RECENT court decision quashing the move to rezone the Unagi Park in the nation’s capital into a commercial zone was welcomed by NCD Governor Powes Parkop.

Mr Parkop said in a statement that he was pleased with the decision on February 2, 2015, with the National Court quashing the decision of a former minister for lands to allow the rezoning of the land known as Unagi Park from open space to commercial zoning.

The Governor and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) had filed a judicial review application in the National Court challenging the decision to re-zone the land.

The land contained two leases, one held by Virgo No. 65 Pty Ltd over allotment 14 and the other lease held by Fairhaven No. 72 Limited over allotment 15, which is prime land near SP Brewery and Boroko Foodworld in Port Moresby.

The basis for the court challenge by NCDC was that in 1985, the land from which lots 14 and 15 were created was “reserved from lease”

At a glance

ISSUE: The move to re-zone the Unagi Park in Port Moresby from an open space for recreational purposes into a commercial zone by former Minister for Lands.

COURT DECISION: The National Court quashed the decision after NCD Governor and the National Capital District filed a judicial review application challenging the decision to re-zone the land.

BASIS FOR THE CHALLENGE: was that in 1985, the land from which lots 14 and 15 were created was “reserved from lease” for public recreation. This declaration by the then Lands Minister was followed by a decision in 1987 that the Interim Commissioners of NCDC were made the trustees of the same land.

CONCERN: That the land was reportedly re-zoned to commercial zoning as it would have led the way for the land to be built on.

for public recreation.

This declaration by the then lands minister was followed by a decision in 1987 that the Interim Commissioners of NCDC were made the trustees of the same land.

In April 2007, the NCDC physical planning board considered separate applications by Virgo and Fairhaven for the commercial development of allotments 14 and 15 respectively at which time the board recommended the re-zoning of both allotments to commercial zoning.

In a decision in December 2007, the then lands and physical planning minister

accepted the board’s decision for the re-zoning of the land and this decision was later gazetted in May 2009. Recently, NCDC and the Governor were concerned that the land was reportedly re-zoned to commercial zoning as it would have led the way for the land to built upon, which in NCDC’s view would have deprived the people of Port Moresby of an essential area for social gatherings, sport and exercise and recreational activities. Mr Parkop and NCDC therefore took the matter to court and successfully halted the re-zoning of the land.

PNG woman found guilty of drug trafficking jailed

A PAPUA New Guinean woman has been sentenced to nine-and-a-half years in jail for smuggling almost four kilograms of methylamphetamine, or ice, into Australia.

Mary Yawari, 42, was arrested at Cairns Airport in far north Queensland in October 2013 when she stepped off an Air Niugini flight from Port Moresby. She has been in custody since her arrest.

Three packages of drugs with an estimated street value of $A5 million (K10.5m) were found hidden in a false bottom in her checked baggage.

Customs officers uncovered 3.97kg of methylamphetamine with about 75 per cent purity, equating to 2.97kg of pure methylamphetamine.

Mrs Yawari faced a sentencing hearing in the Supreme Court in Cairns last Thursday. She pleaded guilty to trafficking commercial quantities of

illicit drugs, but claimed the suitcase was packed by her boyfriend – a South African man living in PNG –who asked her to deliver it to his friends.

Mrs Yawari said she was unaware of the contents of the suitcase, except that they were “presents” for her boyfriend’s friends, whom she did not know.

Commonwealth prosecutor Andrew Lloyd said Mrs Yawari told police her boyfriend drove her to Port Moresby airport the morning of her flight.

The court heard Mrs Yawari, a mother of four, was the second wife of the late governor of Southern Highlands, Hami Yawari.

Justice Jim Henry did not accept Mrs Yawari’s denial of culpability, saying she was effectively a drug mule who rolled the dice for a free trip to Australia.

Bulolo mother raped, tortured

BY FRANCO NEBAS

RELATIVES of a young mother who was raped and tortured to death in the Bulolo district of Morobe Province has described the killing as barbaric and in-human.

A relative, who wishes to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said the killing had occurred a fortnight ago when the deceased was returning home from Bulolo town.

He said the 28-year-old mother of one had gone to Bulolo town conducting her business and was on her way back to her village at Saipan when the incident occurred.

He said the deceased was confronted by a group of youths who allegedly dragged her into a nearby bush and took turns raping her, then tortured her before setting her body alight and

hid it under some kunai grass

The relative said the deceased was discovered six days later by two children who alerted the police.

“The body was already decomposed beyond recognition but we managed to confirm her identity from the marks on her legs,” the relative said.

“She was reported missing and we were looking for her until we had the news that a woman’s body was found dead and hidden under kunai grass

“We confirmed that it was our body with the marks on her legs because the rest of her body was burnt.”

Meanwhile attempts to reach Bulolo police station commander and Morobe provincial police commander Kaiglo Ambane for comment yesterday wereunsuccessful. Relatives are not satisfied with police action so far in investigating the death.

THE MUDDY field at Unagi Oval that is being used as a temporary bus stop.

Works will not pay compo

WORKS Minister Francis Awesa has made it clear to Parliament that the Works Department will not pay any more compensation claims until proper verifications are carried out.

He said that the department has not paid any compensation claims since this government came into office two years ago. He said in Parliament during Question Time that compensation is becoming an industry in iteslf when responding to questions from Chuave MP Wera Mori in regards to a K67 million compensation claim as reported in the PostCourier on Monday.

Mr Mori said compensation claim is not an industry in Chimbu and referred the Minister to an earlier exercise in 2009-2010 where K64 million was removed and only K6.4 million was paid, “Is it true that there is such a new claim of K67 million as reported? If so and such is the case, what are

the claims for?” He asked why the Works Department had not verified the claims and was trying to legitimise such claims, which may be fraudulent in nature.

Mr Awesa said the MP asking the question is privy to the payments that took place in Chimbu, drawing interjection from the Chuave MP, who asked the Works Minister to answer the questions and not deviate.

Mr Awesa said the K67 million claims against the State is now before the courts but many more claims are still coming through.

Army to provide road security

THE PNG Defence Force will provide security for road works on hotspots along the Highlands Highway as of next month.

The national Government has approved the army to assist provide security for contractors to work in problem areas along the highway following unnecessary delays caused by compensation demanding locals in Kompri, Kainantu district, Eastern Highlands Province, last week.

A team of soldiers from the Igam engineering battalion in Lae drove along the Highlands Highway on Saturday to inspect the entire length of the highway and were shown some of the problem areas by respective provincial Works managers in the provinces. Attempts to clear and reopen damaged sections of the highway in the region have been continuously hampered by compensation demands by locals who threaten and chase away workmen.

As of next month if they are serious, any compensation demanding landowners would have to deal with the soldiers rather than Works Department officials or contractors.

The Kompri blockade has been cleared last week.

A MASSIVE crowd congregated at the Paparatava parish in the Gazelle district of East New Britain last Friday as the province opened the legal year. Pictured are traditional dances at the ceremony.

TRADITIONAL WELCOME

There will not be any more compensation payments until probe is carried out ...

FRANCIS AWESA Port Moresby

LAI MUST VOTE ALONE

TO our provincial and national leaders. Can Lai Valley be made into a separate electorate from Mendi District in SHP? This is because we have the largest landmass, biggest population and more than 25 LLGs. Some have joined the Hela and Enga Provinces because past Mendi MPs have not provided services. Now God has given wisdom to our national leaders and soon we w ill have a sealed road from Mendi to Kandep, a high school, some primary and community schools. Credit must also go to Pastor Isaac Joseph who at least established certain schools like Monta and Marara community and elementary schools.

Ipmama Kapisbul Tenpuhaisem

DON’T

QUERY EASTER

I READ a complaint about Easter celebrations in the Post-Courier on Wednesday, August 6, 2014. So why are you arguing about Easter. It is found in the New Testament so why are you digging out the Old Testament. Your theology is not in the new covenant, so forget about arguing the Easter celebration, and continue worshiping your churches. We are worshiping only one god. We are the tree and you are the branches. The time will come and there will be one shepherd to rule this nation. Heaven and earth will disappear. His words will stand, that’s why we worship his resurrection every Easter.

S.B. Michael Rabaul

SUBSIDISE US TOO

AS a parent who sends my children to a private school, I would like to ask if the Government can also pay 75 per cent of the fee. This will help us parents, because these children w ill also help to carry this country. The Government must give us a fair go because we too are taxpayers.

Century 21 Parent

Currency control good move

PLEASE can Nancy

Billy Ave

AS A banking expert, I applaud our PM’s comment on his Government’s policy on the current management of foreign currency trading in PNG. Mr O’Neill is correct to say that we need to have some control measures in our foreign currency trading, largely because commercial banks were charging high margins on foreign currency trading and not lending enough to our local SME’s. This is a real challenge our nation was facing for a long time when Mr O’Neill explained on the floor of Parliament last week.

It is true that about 75 per cent of the declared profits by commercial banks over many years were earnings from foreign currency trading. That is why they do not

lend enough to our local SME’s or bother expanding retail banking operations across the country. They have been rating this country as high risk country, where their core banking function of lending was overlooked and have imposed so many unnecessary restrictions and fees and do not lend enough to our local SMEs.

Unlike BSP, the other three commercial banks do not bother expanding their retail banking operations across the country. Therefore, in the pretext of them providing vital banking service to our country, they only operate in a few big towns of PNG. The Bank of PNG has been sleeping for a long time because they failed to impose stringent regulatory discipline on

these commercial Banks. The current imposition of uniform counter-spot policy across all banks on foreign exchange manoeuvred by the O’ Neill Government is a very smart intervention which has been lacking for too long. Going forward to grow and streamline our local SME, BPNG must now start implementing stringent controls to ensure that 75% of the commercial banks’ declared profits should be earnings from interest income. Such action will push the banks to open their doors wider for our local businessmen and women to have access to affordable lending.

PNG Local Banking Expert

Malana living somewhere in Port Moresby call or text me me on this mobile number: 73859815. Friends and family who know her, please pass this message on to her.

Education Secretary Michael Tapo revealing that about 600 000 Education Michael that about 600,000 children are missing out on school due to various reasons children are out on school due to various reasons.

Image is everything overseas

Letter of the day

SERVING in other countries, representing PNG is sometimes a daunting task of trying to portray a good overall image of our beautiful country.

However we struggle to do that when issues’ relating to our law and order situation on the ground is asked. Law and order issues are our own worst enemy to a prosperous nation that we are all working towards and looking forward to.

Law and Order is everyone’s concern and everyone must take ownership of it.

The police force is in the forefront of the business of ensuring law enforcement and crime prevention, thereby endeavouring to secure a safe and peaceful society, where rights and freedom of fellow citizens are respected. How and when can we arrive there?

Policing in PNG is a tough job then policing anywhere else in the Pacific. Our people are tougher to deal with than many others in the Pacific.

So, do we need tougher and harder reactive policing and tougher penalties as a deterrent and preventive measure or as a way of inflicting retribution to those that have disregard for the law and disrespect for others?

You are entitled to say your piece of mind on this. But I think there is no quick fix to this but there must be a way, a way that is a steady and lengthy journey to a peaceful society, where there exist no race, no colour difference and no ethnic boundaries. But we all belong to each other and live in the true spirit of the foundation of our Melanesian values and way of living, which I sum up in two words as “caring and sharing”.

Police is charged with the primary role of dealing with issues, lead-

10 years ago

Text us on 208

BUAI BAN’S TWO LAWS

ing and paving the way forward in our long journey to peace and harmony. The recent inaction or perhaps complacent attitude of the police in Yonki when the incident of the kidnap of the teacher was reported, is a snap shot scenario of lack of effective policing methods or strategies.

Without prejudice to the prevailing circumstances that may have existed for Yonki police’s overall deemed failure to attend to the complaint at that time, it exposes the extend of the ability, and the capability of the local police, which must be part of a strategy that is interwoven into an effective policing strategy.

What is effective policing strategy then?

The police service and others in the front line of ensuring law and order in our communities must continue to improve and devise strategies that are accepted by the community and must have relevance to the change of times and to the change in the attitude and mindset of the people. This is not philosophy but practicality to the

cause of ensuring effective policing. The policing strategies must be well connected to the community and into the social structure of our communities. Not only that but it must also be aligned to the local level government system so that policing efforts are well accommodated and integrated which would be a perfect conduit for tangible partnership.

Those strategies discussed above are on the outset of policing roadmap. The internal controls, practises of attending to complaints, prioritising, reporting and monitoring are effective elements of good policing systematic boundaries which when effectively applied, managed and actioned, will contribute towards effective policing strategies.

Pressure release valves at Police Headquarters Konedobu must be open at to allow all the old gossip and fumes to exit, as it only disguises the view and taints efforts for effective policing strategies.

IN VIEW of the recent police brutality and killing of the two innocent people at the Hanuabada village, the NDC Governor Powes Parkop publicly stated in the media that his NCD reserve police were not responsible for these deaths as his NCD Buai Ban Law does not stop vendors from the Motuan villages to trade and sell there. If the NCD Buai Ban law exempts Motuan villages, I now question the Governor which destination by air, sea or land did he allow the Motuan vendors to travel and transport their nuts into their villages since they do not grow them. What is the logic behind it if he stops betelnut sales inside the city when he allowed the Motuans to sell freely in their villages? This is a kind of rule and divide tactic from a leader and unfair with the kind of his leadership style he clearly portrays in the nation’s capital city.

I call on the Governor to stand firm with his your public policy and should not to pay compensation under duress. If he admits liability as a result of his Buai Ban Policy, he too should do the same for the past deaths, and be accountable for every chaos in the entire city as a result of the latest police shooting at the Hanuabada village.

City Observer

LET’S VALUE LIFE

MY LETTER of the PC - 13/2/015

“Death Penalty Godly” provoked criticisms from people who know me.

I think the death penalty affirms the value of life. The bible supports death penalty. God allows for national defense and even personal defense because he values life. In acts of defense lives can be lost. If I walk down the road and a thug threatens to kill me, I have the right to defend myself.

In situations where the victims are not given the opportunity to defend themselves or their women or children then the society and law should step in and set standards to affirm the value of life through the death penalty. But even if death penalty is legalised in PNG not all murder incidences are punishable by death. Some deaths occur from acts of self defense or accidents. Thus normal jail terms can be given. Only when murder occurs out of improper cause then death penalty should apply.

After all, what is the difference between police shooting a criminal in the act of committing a crime and getting the same criminal to face the firing squad?

Johnson Apamumu - WNB

WHERE IS MR ARORE?

IT SEEMS the Member for Ijivijari

Mr. Arore has gone into hiding out of embarrassment for his failed attempt to appoint himself as the Governor of Oro.

We the people of Cape Nelson LLG (Tufi/Wanigela area) have suffered from lack of basic services at the hands of former Ijivijari MP’s because of their lack of foresight and vision for tangible development in all major sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, transport, communication and agriculture.

Our land is blessed with natural resources such as fi sh and a huge potential in agriculture and livestock as a major food bowl for PNG but these opportunities are lost because our leaders have blinked vision.

Please empower our people to be equal participants in national development.

Jijiro Tubuna Spear Point, Cape Nelson LLG

THE education sector has seen significant

THE education sector has seen achievements during the past years with achievements the past years with the net enrolment rate increasing, yet key the net enrolment rate challenges remain remain

EAST New Britain is the first province in the country to receive K1 million help from Rotary 2650 of Japan for eliminating polio virus in the province. PC Feb 2, 2005 p21

Fred Yakasa, DPS QPM

THE Pacific Games are nearing and renovation to the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium is taking shape. Here the 2015 sign is being assembled to be put on top of the building.

District sees big developments

DESPITE being isolated, the Huon Gulf District of Morobe Province has seen major changes in terms of basic infrastructure since MP Ross Seymour was elected into office in 2012.

Reflecting on his two years in office, Mr Seymour said it had been very tough trying to deliver services to his people, especially when government funds were not released on time.

However, his desire to see change in his district has seen tremendous improvements in infrastructure, rehabilitation and construction of government facilities, law and order, as well as helping churches and providing school fee grants to students.

Last December, the MP invited the National Alliance Party Leader and Treasury Minister, Patrick Pruaitch, to launch several infrastructure projects in the district, including the new Huon Gulf district headquarters to be constructed at Nazab in the Wampar local level government area.

Some projects Mr Seymour implemented include the Wampar High School, Huon, Salamaua-Hote Rural Hospital, the Salamaua-Pile

road which is currently in progress, the Morobe station-Pema 40km road, the 35km Rumion-Mama/ Bogeba road, as well as the completed Wagau-Bumatu/ Labu Tale road, the Huon Gulf District police station with cell blocks and police accommodations.

The Zaka Health Centre in the Morobe local level government area has been renovated, and a new health centre is being constructed at Siboma.

The health centre has a complete maternity ward and two new staff houses have also been constructed.

The equipment bought included 11 sawmills for community-based projects.

Huon Gulf is one of the biggest districts in Morobe Province.

It shares its boundaries with Markham, Naweab, Lae and stretches to Bulolo District and to Northern Province on the Morobe coast.

The district has three local level government areas; Salamaua, Morobe and Wampar with more than 120,000 people.

It has nine administrative districts and 101 languages are spoken by its people.

Oil palm aligns with agri reforms

AGRICULTURE and Livestock

Secretary Vele Pat Ila’ava has been appointed chairman of the Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) board.

Long-time OPIC board member Oka Ailan Kamale has been appointed deputy chairman while Leslie Wungen has been confirmed as the general secretary.

The appointments were gazetted on February 12, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Assik Tommy Tomscoll has announced.

“The appointments of the new chairman replacing veteran and Rural Industries Council chairman Sir Brown Bai, Mr Kamale as deputy chairman and Mr Wungen as the secretary general, are in line with the Government’s policy initiative to overhaul the agriculture sector based on the functional expenditure review recommendations,” Mr Tomscoll said.

He said the overhaul of the sector beginning with new legislations for a new look agriculture department and a new agriculture investment corporation similar to the Independent Public Business Corporation were inevitable.

“Some commodity boards and agencies, despite the Government’s clear policy indications, are dragging their feet, cluttering the board process, and hoping that implemen-

At a glance

ASSIK TOMMY TOMSCOLL: He is the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock. APPOINTMENTS: The appointments are in line with the Government’s policy initiative to overhaul the agriculture sector based on the functional expenditure review recommendations.

REVENUE: The oil palm industry earns PNG more than K1.2 billion a year.

INEVITABLE: Overhaul of the sector was inevitable.

tation of the recommendations will fall by the wayside.

“I can assure you that as long as I am the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock and this Government is in power, the reforms will happen.

“I will be receiving the bills to enact the National Agriculture Act and the Agriculture Investment Corporation any time now from the implementation and advisory team.” Minister Tomscoll said.

He said the oil palm industry earns Papua New Guinea more than K1.2 billion but the Government would like to see a more sustainable, open to participation and fairer distribution of gains from this industry to all stakeholders, especially the village and land settlement farmers.

HUON Gulf MP Ross Seymour (right) with Morobe Governor Kelly Naru (middle) and councillor Hiop Langim of ward 19 in the Wampar LLG at a gathering at Tararan village. Picture: PAUL MAIMA

New projects promote farmers

FARMERS are now more educated and need better access to agricultural services delivery, says a senior government official.

Farmers are also facing more challenges but understand and talk about a wider range of issues relating to agriculture development than in the past.

Agriculture and Livestock’s acting deputy secretary for corporate services, Stephen Mesa, said this at a meeting with an International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) scoping mission recently.

SECOND CHANCE

SMEs need more support

BY ABRAHAM AVEDIBA

COMMERCE and business

development officers need more training to better implement what has been stipulated in the small-tomedium enterprises (SME) policy.

Tanorama consultant Angela Filer stressed this during day one of the one week SME capacity building training programs conducted in Lae on Monday.

“Most of these officers understand the SME to a certain extent and they often deal with the SME that they are familiar with.

“There’s a gap between the government’s expectation of seeing the SME sector grow and what the duties that these officers are doing in their respective provinces and distractives,” Mrs Filer said.

According to Mrs Filer, officers from the seven par-

ticipating provinces had indicated a 7-10 per cent of SME activities in their provinces. She said that the results were quite disappointing as this was nowhere near the 60 per cent target that the Government is anticipating to achieve. “These officers need to be educated that several other partners are needed to be consulted in order for growth to occur in the SME sector.

“These partners includes institutions such as the Internal Revenue Commission for tax registration, IPA for SME registration purposes, and the National Development Bank and other commercial banks for financing purposes,” Mrs Filer explained. “It now up to us, the facilitators, to link these implementers to the policy makers, “she added.

Simbu provincial admin-

Dept conducts training in Lae

AS part of the small-to-medium enterprises (SME) capacity building program the Department of Trade Commerce and Industry conducted a one week training that attracted participants from various regions.

Deputy secretary Richard Yakam said the capacity building training program was the second of its kind and the entire project cost around K4 million. He said that the program consists of two components where provincial commerce and business development officers are trained and given office equip-

ment to implement the SME policy.

“This program is quite different from all the other SME programs that are being run because it is linked to Bank South Pacific as a financial institution.

“So it’s not just about training provincial commerce and business development officers and letting them go but there’s also a follow-up and mentoring component that follows,” Mr Yakam said.

Mr Yakam explained that these officers are in the forefront of SMEs in their prov-

inces so priority has been given in supplying them office equipment and the necessary knowledge to improve the sector.

It was stated that computers, printers and access to internet services were given to by the department to all the 22 provincial commerce and business development divisions.

The department’s project facilitator, Freddy Nawiyeu said the program was aimed towards educating these officers to attain confidence in assisting SMEs to access the financial assistance in either growing or formalising their businesses.

Group to promote kina culture

BY GLORIA BAUAI

PAPUA New Guinea’s traditional culture will be eaten away and replaced by western culture if not for patriotic people like Yake Pua, founder and chairman of the newly formed Kina Cultural Group.

The Kina Cultural Group aims to promote the long lost kina culture from the Ialibu area of Southern Highlands

province; a culture that has so many stories to tell and more importantly from which Papua New Guinea’s currency has been named after.

Mr Pua has been collecting antique kina shells for over 10 years and has formed the group with the dream to create an exhibit dedicated entirely to the traditional kina culture.

Mr Pua says this culture, which had been at the heart of

all other traditional practices in his area, had died away and the group wants to revive it for national benefit.

“This will be a benefit to the generation to come as they will know how it was in the past, for educational purpose and will also attract tourists,” he said.

Pua said they have already established contacts with relevant authorities and interested parties.

istration officer Rosemary Kaupa, a participant at the training, said there were a couple of areas in the SME that they still lacked knowledge on.

Ms Kaupa admitted that there was greater need for SME to access financial assistance more readily.

“Therefore, learning how to go about resolving this issue is seen as a vital area, that we need knowledge and skills on,” Ms Kaupa said.

Mr Mesa welcomed the mission, saying that farmers today faced more challenges but were educated and wanted better and improved access to services such as credit, marketing, infrastructure, extension, training, funding and others, as compared to farmers in the past.

The farmers were facing more challenges but were more informed and aware of many issues, were able to understand things and wanted more answers and assistance than previously, he said.

Mr Mesa said the proposed intervention by IFAD at the request of Government to implement a new project aimed at ensuring that small farmers and growers in selected value chains have secured access through sustainable linkages to improved inputs, technologies, skills, financial services and markets.

HERE aresome of the 50 Bougainville students who got the blessing from director of PNG National Polytechnic Institute in Lae after a meeting with ABG Minister for Community Development Melchior Dare. Mr Dare has spent two weeks in Lae sorting out the placings for these students - all in the name of human resource development for Bougainville. Picture: MICHAEL BISIRO

Tkatchenko praises locals

BY LEONNIE WAYANG

RESIDENTS of the Hovoii community in Sabama, Port Moresby, have been praised for using their initiative to attract services.

Moresby South MP and Minister for Sports Justin Tkatchenko said he appreciated that the residents had taken it upon themselves to work with him to ensure they had water supply in their community.

“Your community leaders initiated the water project themselves and it shows that they have a heart for the community,” he said.

“You have made my job easier and I appreciate the initiative, you are showing others what you can do and achieve when you put your mind to it.”

The eight water taps, funded by the Moresby South district office at a cost of K34,000, were installed at Hovoii community, which has a population of about 400 people. It will cater to the different blocks of residences in the area.

Soldiers storm shop

PNG Defence Force soldiers based in Daru forcefully entered the SVS HE&G supermarket and got away with 100 phone cards, two mobile phones and two cartoons of beer, police say.

Provincial police commander of Western Province

Chief Inspector Silva Sika said the incident happened last Tuesday at around 10am.

He said five soldiers, allegedly under the influence of liquor, went into the supermarket and ordered the tell-

Hagara primary gets new computers

BY MEROLYN TEN

THE Hagara Primary school in Hanuabada, Central Province, received two computer sets and a printer from LanFrame PNG Limited yesterday.

After finding out that the school desperately needed computers and printers since 2013, LanFrame PNG Ltd stepped in and donated the vital equipment.

“Hagara Primary School lost six computer sets and other fundamental school properties in 2013 during a break-and-enter. The school was struggling since then, however the struggles have finally come to an end,” says Kellie Kemali, the school head teacher.

Ms Kemali said Hagara primary was established in 1948, and was one of the first schools in Papua New Guinea that served the Motuans in Central Province and others in NCD.

“However, less attention has been given to the school concerning infrastructural developments and school equipment,” she said.

er to give them 100 phone cards, two mobile phones and 12 packs SP beer.

He said the woman at the counter, in fear of her safety, gave the soldiers what they wanted. On their way out of the shop, they punched the manager.

Insp Sika said on the same day, at around 2pm, four soldiers went to the shop, threatened workers and demanded two cartoons of beer.

They got the beer, verbally abused the staff, and went

down to Daru main wharf and drank the beer, the police Inspector said.

“Police were called to the scene and they went down to the wharf but when local police questioned them, they charged back so the police left and reported the matter to their platoon commander,” Insp Sika said.

He said he has directed the local criminal investigation division in Daru to investigate the matter and arrest them for their criminal act.

“No one is above the law,

even you are the defence or police, all are equal before the law,” Insp Sika said. He urged the soldiers to voluntarily come to the police station for questioning.

Insp Sika said the platoon commander was aware of the matter and also their commanding officers at Taurama and Murray Barracks in Port Moresby. Chief Insp Sika said as professional disciplined officers, they should air their grievances through proper

channels rather than resorting to criminal acts.

He said there are ways to solve problems instead of resorting to violence and terror.

While he acknowledged the good work of many soldiers, he said only a few are disrespectful, and urged the Taurama and Murray Barracks hierarchy to attend to the issues of their soldiers.

The soldiers are in the area to patrol the border with Indonesia.

“Along that line, with the high influx of students to the school every year, shortage of classrooms and teachers has become a very big problem as well.”

Ms Kemali said there were two double-storey classrooms that were left incomplete.

“We appeal to the Education Department to engage a new contractor or advise the old contractors to complete the buildings to accommodate three grade three classes.”

She also thanked the Government for its free education policy.

Leader calls for clarification

THE Fly River Provincial Government and Governor Ati Wobiro must not to share the 33 per cent Ok Tedi shares allocated by the national Government, a leader says.

Vice-chairman of Faiwolmin Association and chairman for Ok Tedi Mining Negotiation Tonny Itulam is urging the national Government to conduct a full-scale social mapping immediately.

He also urged the Government to carry-out an environmental impact and socio-economic impact studies and to fairly and rightfully declare true principal landowners by clans for the customary land owners of Ok Tedi mining.

He said there was no wider consultation with the CMCA communities and the six SML 1 villages are not aware of the

At a glance

SHARE: A leader urges the Fly River Provincial Government and Governor Ati Wobiro to not share the 33 per cent Ok Tedi share allocated by the national Government.

CONSULTATION: There was no wider consultation with the CMCA communities

33 per cent share. Mr Itulam claims there have been no mining development forums to date or benefits agreement forum.

The OTML should not be granted extension licenses but should continue to dig at the Mt Fubilan pit only, he said.

Mr Itulam said OTML should go back and see the customary

landowners for fresh negotiation as a way forward.

“Do not jump into sharing 33 per cent equity, but tap all the funds into national Government trust accounts and sort issues promptly and efficiently,” he said.

He said they are prepared to seek the highest court to interpret the Ok Tedi Mining Supplementary Bill.

He urged the national and provincial governments to jointly fund Ok Tedi mining customary landowners identification (social mapping) exercise.

“Thirty years is enough to evaluate all effects of Ok Tedi mining and we cannot repeat past history,” he said.

“We are calling for fully customary land owners recognition by tribal clans of Ok Tedi Mining landholders.”

MR Tkatchenko playfully splashing water at the kids during the official opening of the Sabama water project on Sunday.

If you have a story to tell, call us on 309 1042, or email bwaluka@spp.com.pg

If you have a story to tell, call us on 542 2602, or email posthagen@spp.com.pg

Legal year opens for Hela

BY ANDREW ALPHONSE

THE Hela people have been urged to uphold and respect the rule of law at all times if they want change.

Hela’s pioneer resident National Court Judge Martin Ipang made this remark during the legal year opening ceremony at Tari on Monday morning.

Justice Ipang who has being posted to Tari late last year said he has observed some changes taking place, especially with the engagement of PNG Defence Force soldiers and police personnel in the special security operations to quell tribal warfare and general lawlessness in Hela.

Justice Ipang told the police parade and the general public that had gathered for the occasion that the Hela people must respect government workers and law enforcement agencies that come to serve them. He said with the bad pub-

Western Highlands to sort out leave fare mess

TEACHERS in Western Highlands

who have missed out on leave fares last year hvae been asked by provincial education adviser Knox Kiap to register their names to the Provincial Education Board to be sorted out.

Mr Kiap, speaking at a press conference, announced that about 300 teachers who have not collected their leave fares yet and are not satisfied with the PEB must submit their names immediately.

He said to date no names have been received. He said it was a national issue that caused the delay and he apologised to the teachers in the province.

“This year teachers should get their leave fares at the closing day of classes while around September their money would be prepared and sent to their individual accounts,” said Mr Kiap.

He also outlined a number of teachers’ issues that need to be improved this year under his leadership.

These include teacher appointments, code of ethics, other business (smoking, chewing, and drinking) in official hours, teachers update form to consider long serving teachers and maintaining excellent academic results.

He said the provincial education board makes decision on teachers’ performance in order for them to change positions. Positions are minimal so teachers with eligibility will only be approved by stakeholders consisting of the community, parents, students and PEB itself.

Mr Kiap said teachers who are on a joy ride last year must be serious with their profession this year as it will be tough and their performance will determine their salary, teacher posting and leave fares.

Kiap: Don’t pay project fees

BY SIBA MESA

WESTERN Highlands provincial education adviser Knox Kiap has urged parents not to pay project fees for 2015 as authorised by the Education secretary and minister.

“I discourage schools in Western Highlands to charge projects fees, if schools do so than do it at your own risk and later face the consequences,” said Mr Kiap. He said this announcement is a directive from the secretary of the Department of Education so schools will be liable if they chase children out of the classroom and the principal will be referred to the Education Secretary.

As stated by Education Minister

Nick Kuman, the tuition fee-free funds paid to schools by the government, about K605 million this year, was sufficient to cater for all the schools’ needs and he made it clear that no project fees be paid until such time when the national education board decides to reverse that decision.

“My advice to the parents is not to pay project fees, if the government says no then the province has also said no,” said Mr Kiap.

Parents who are charged project fees must bring their concerns to the regional office office, he said.

Mr Kiap said schools that are defying the national education board and continuing to charge project fees must stop doing so.

At a glance

MARTIN IPANG: Hela’s pioneer resident National Court Judge.

CEREMONY: Legal year opening ceremony at Tari.

licity, including the recent attack last year on the senior provincial magistrate, public servants and others would not want to serve in Tari and Hela, thus making things only complicated for the locals.

Justice Ipang said following the attack on the magistrate, Tari would be without a district court magistrate for some time and it would only derail the process of justice, especially in committal matters.

Justice Ipang also urged the chief magistrate to send two district court magistrates to Tari, adding that the district court needs to be

opened. He said things are looking good this year as the Hawa Correctional Services (CS) would also open up while plans are afoot for the public solicitor, public prosecutor and community based correctional offices to be established in Tari to serve the Hela people.

Justice Ipang said law and order is everyone’s issue and not just the police or law enforcement agencies and therefore urged all Hela people and leaders to support the police and work with all sectors of law and justice divisions to ensure people live in peace and harmony, adding that no development would come to their place if there is serious law and order issue.

Justice Ipang also challenged the Hela people not to harbor their clansmen and relatives if they are involved in criminal activities.

He said those who break the law must face justice.

HELA resident National Court Judge Justice Martin Ipang (center) inspects a guard of honor put up by members of Tari police during the 2015 legal year opening.

Unitech hosts course crusade

A DEDICATION ceremony was held at the University of Technology during the orientation week.

The orientation crusade was jointly hosted by the Tertiary Student Christian Fellowship (TSCF) and the Student Representative Council (SRC).

The orientation was held to welcome the first year students into the university.

President of TSCF Fred Kawayo said apart from studies and other activities, it is very important that students develop good characters.

He said students having good characters and mindsets would push the nation forward.

He said the orientation crusade was to influence the first year students not to engage in ethnic clashes and other undesirable activities.

He also urged continuing students to set good examples for the new intakes.

Reverend Tony Dalaka, who was the guest speaker, told the new intakes that if they don’t consecrate themselves today there will be no better tomorrow for them as a generation and a nation.

Housing scheme for Lae public servants set

BY MELISHA YAFOI

PUBLIC servants in Lae now have the opportunity to own homes with the new housing scheme initiated by the Lae district administration.

Landowners will also be benefiting from the scheme, acting Lae district administrator Kaumu Laga said yesterday.

Mr Laga said this during the presentation of K1 million to the two contractors that will be engaged on the housing scheme project.

He said the funds will see the surveying and planning of the particular portion of the land allocated for the project on Busu Road.

“The K1 million will be shared among the two contractors; ENGCON Engineers with K400,000 and K600,000 will go to the public private partnership prgoram,” Mr Laga said.

The project was initiated several years ago but nothing was done. Many public servants were forced to live in settlements, where security was a major concern, especially for those working late shifts.

“This are some reasons why the local MP Loujaya Kouza had emphasised to ensure public servants within the district have access to good homes in order to carry out their duties more effectively,” Mr Laga said.

ENGCON Engineers project manager Robin Yalambing said the project will be an example to other districts and provinces to make good use of their land.

He said the project will consist of road links, access to water and power supply, communication links, shopping centres, hotels, institutions and the residential areas with recreational parks.

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PM: No politics in commission

BY FRANKIY KAPIN

THERE is no politics in establishing the Lae City Commission, says Prime Minister Peter O’Neill. He said it’s all about improving the status of the industrial hub of the country.

Mr O’Neill said Lae has been neglected for far too long that is why the Lae City Commission, headed by Lae MP Loujaya Kouza, is being established.

Mr O’Neill said Lae has gone through years of unreliable government services.

He said the standards are dropping with many more obvious setbacks.

He stressed that Lae has become unfavourable, requiring the establishment of a totally independent authority to deliver to the expectations of the people.

The prime minister said there is no political affiliation in the issue.

At a glance

NO POLITICS: PM O’Neill said there is no politics in establishing the Lae City Commission, it’s all about improving the situation in industrial hub of Papua New Guinea.

NEW DIRECTION: Lae has become unfavourable, requiring the establishment of a totally independent authority to deliver to the expectations of the people.

GOVERNOR NARU: This is our welfare and wellbeing. We need more consultations as well as proper and effective dialogue before coming to consensus.

CAUTION: The last thing we want to create is a statutory creature that cannot reconcile with current existing government arms and is incompatible to the system.

MP: The MP for Lae District is Loujaya Kouza.

Mr O’Neill was responding to Morobe Governor Kelly Naru at the commissioning of the new

25 megaWatt trailer mounted (TM) gas turbine in Lae on Monday. Mr Naru told the prime minister that there is a conflict that must be effectively addressed as far as governance of the city and the province is concerned.

He said information from the corridors of Waigani is not filtered down to the affected communities and population regarding the proposed Lae City Commission.

“This is our welfare and wellbeing. We need more consultations as well as proper and effective dialogue before coming to consensus,” Mr Naru said.

“The last thing we want to create is a statutory creature that cannot reconcile with current existing government arms and is incompatible to the system.”

However, the prime minister assured Governor Naru that a team will be dispatched to Morobe Province to conduct consultations.

PRESENTATION of the K1 million cheque from the Lae district administration to the two contractors of the Abongtu Land development estate.

BY NICOLE JOANNES

WEST New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel is urging the churches in the province to speak out against violence against women and the ills brought about by alcohol consumption.

Mr Muthuvel said the churches should make theirvoice heard because of the many negatives being impacted on the society.

He said the churches should speak up on issues that will cause a change of attitude and bring about positive changes to the community.

Governor Muthuvel expressed grave concerns that women are not free to move around in society when they are faced with various forms of violence against them.

He was saddened that over the weekend a 13-year-old girl was pack raped by perpetrators under the influence of liquor at Ismin in Talasea LLG while they slashed her father with a hook knife

Air Niugini reopens Kimbe office

BY NICOLE JOANNES

THE Air Niugini sales office in Kimbe has opened its door for normal operations after doing business out of locked doors after thieves broke into the office and walked away with the safe at the weekend.

Marketing and sales manager Dominic Kaumu said they are aware of the important service they provide to the public and the office has now opened again for normal operations with an internal security system installed.

Mr Kaumu said Air Niugini is also expected to replace the security firm that provides security at the office following the break-and-enter incident.

Acting provincial police commander Chief Inspector Gordan Magum said police have sketchy information on the break-and-enter incident and are still conducting investigations.

He said it is alleged that several suspects broke into the office on Friday night and got away with the safe.

Chief Inspector Magum said police investigators would be interviewing the two security guards who were on duty during the time of the breakand-enter incident and are not ruling out the possibility of an inside job. Meanwhile, the acting PPC said the acting Kimbe town mayor Siwi Bungo is now on bail.

Police last week arrested him for three counts of misappropriation of

At a glance

CLOSURE: Air Niugini office in Kimbe was closed following it being broken into by burglars who walked out with its safe.

OPERATION: But the office kept on doing busines behind closed door.

NORMAL OPERATION: The office reopens its door for normal business.

REASON: The Air Niugini is aware of the importance of the service it provides to the public.

INSIDE JOB: There were two guards on duty at the office when the office was broken into by the burglars who walked away with the safe. The police are not ruling out the possibility of an inside job.

SECURITY: Air Niugini’s office in Kimbe has now been reopened with internal security system installed. The Air niugini is also looking at terminating the contract between it and the security firm engaged to provide security.

public funds totaling K43,000. In another incident, chief Inspector Magum said police are expected to arrest a suspect of the alleged rape of a 13 year old girl and the injuring of her father at Ismin over the weekend.

He said several suspects attacked the rape victim’s father and his family at their house and slashed him on his head and his hand with a hook knife (oil palm harvesting tool).

when he tried to defend his family.

The ordeal was excruciating when they had to wait for ages for treatment at the Kimbe Provincial Hospital because there was only one officer on duty at the accidents and emergency ward with many patients waiting on the queue.

Mr Muthuvel said until women are seen to be moving freely around in the night, it is right now not safe to say that our society has seen positive changes.

The Governor sounded this message at the presentation of a K100,000 cheque to the Kimbe United Church for the renovation and maintenance of its provincial headquarters.

Meanwhile, United Church Reverend George Tukera thanked Governor Muthuvel for his assistance and said the church will work together with the West New Britain Provincial Government for the development of the province.

GOVERNOR Sasindran Muthuvel presenting k100,000 cheque to United Church Reverend George Taukera at the Kimbe United Church.

Electoral update underway

WORK on the Bougainville electoral has begun on Monday.

This exercise involves the compilation of all names of eligible voters that were collected in the enrolment exercise that was carried out throughout the region towards the end of last year.

Before the commencement of this exercise, the data processing operators (DPOs) were challenged by the regional returning officer of the 2015 ABG General Election, John Itanu to do a thorough work on the updating of the electoral rolls.

Mr Itanu, who is also in charge of the election operations, reminded the DPOs that the number of eligible voters who will be casting their votes in this election will depend on how accurately they entered the names of those who had filled in their claim for enrolment forms.

This data entry exercise is expected to take about two weeks.

From this data entry exercise, the ABG Electoral Commission will have a preliminary roll which will be distributed to all constituencies, district offices and council of elders’ offices for public scrutiny.

During the public scrutiny period,

At a glance

DATA ENTRY: This exercise involves the compilation of all names of eligible voters that were collected throughout the region in the enrolment exercise. A preliminary roll will be distributed for verification.

ELECTION: The ABG general elections are scheduled for July this year.

those eligible voters that do not have their names on the preliminary rolls can still fill in their claim for enrolment forms. After this, the new enrolments collected, including the changes made on the list of eligible voters, will be taken back to Buka for the updating of the electoral roll.

The updating of the electoral roll will end before the issue of writs, which is slated to take place in March.

Meanwhile, acting Electoral Commissioner George Manu has expressed confidence at the rate of progress of the data entry exercise. He said since the start of this exercise, there were no major hiccups, adding that about 50 per cent of work has already been done.

Radio manager calls for banking services

Aloysius

Laukai yesterday called on the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to immediately invite another bank into the region to help the people of Bougainville with their banking needs.

He made the call after waiting for decisions to be made for a bank loan for equipment at the New Dawn FM studio.

After being assured of a good response, the fully-guaranteed loan was kept on the pending file for more than two weeks, he said.

And with the continuous blackouts, the demand for cash pressured the office to cancel an interest bearing deposit account to help the situation, but that was also rejected by the bank, he said.

Mr Laukai said if there was another commercial bank the people of Bougainville can select which bank they can deal with for urgent assistance. He said that the Nationwide Micro Bank and the NDB are doing fine, but another commercial bank could be more beneficial to the business community.

Last year New Dawn FM faced a similar situation and withdrew K50,000 from another IBD account and this time they will be removing another K32,000 due to the same problem.

New Dawn FM is also ready to assist any bank who wants to establish on Bougainville by providing office space, Mr Laukai said. He said ordinary customers are also facing the same problem.

Factions sought peace

BY JACOB IENU

THE people of Panguna district are in full swing with the unification of warring factions through reconciliations.

The people of Parakake in the Pineinari village assembly last weekend reconciled with Severinius Ampa’oi and his family.

Mr Ampa’oi was a former Bougainville Copper Limited village relations manager and was the main target of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army. They pinpointed him for siding with BCL and not doing much for the mine affected areas during the start of the Bougainville conflict.

Mr Ampa’oi’s house was torched and his properties destroyed, his family was also shot at with one of

his nephews succumbing to bullet wounds.

At the ceremony, the chiefs, youths and women’s representatives and excombatants of the Parakake communities all said sorry and asked for forgiveness from the Ampa’oi family.

The Ampa’oi family is now happy that they’ve been accepted back into the community of Parakake and Pineinari as a whole.

The reconciliation was made possible by the Bougainville peace building program.

The event was witnessed by representatives from Simeko and Ioro Constituencies, ABG representative Jimmy Gibson who is the Project Officer of Implementation and Monetary and funded by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on behalf of ABG.

DATA processing operators busy at work. Picture: WINTERFORD TOREAS

NEW Dawn FM manager

Locals keen on oil palm project

VILLAGERS living along the proposed Bulldog oil palm project site say they are not giving up hope.

Since the pre-feasibility study conducted more than 20 years ago had indicated the suitability of growing oil palm, there has been numerous proposals, submissions, visits and meetings held, but little or no progress to date.

An estimated 100,000 people are likely to benefit if the project becomes a reality and supporters of the project, village and community leaders say they will not give up fighting for development.

The proposed project is located on the border of Morobe, Gulf, Central and Eastern Highlands provinces, and has the potential to become a major impact oil palm project similar to oil palm projects in West New Britain and Oro provinces.

In Port Moresby last week, Mathew Akama, chairman of the Bulldog oil palm project Ltd, a landowner company spearheading the project, visited the Department of Agriculture and Livestock Southern Regional office for a briefing on the progress.

He was accompanied by Kapao LLG president and chairman for health in the Morobe provincial government, Jacti Yotipu.

The two men and DAL Mamose Regional Office economist, Nelson Bomo, also visited a number of relevant government departments and parliamentarians to submit proposals and hold further discussions.

Both men urged DAL to take the lead and organise a team comprising of relevant government agencies to be involved in carrying out a full feasibility study on the proposed project.

They said that there were positive indications for funding support to come from the MPs for Menyamya and Kerema respectively, as well as the Morobe provincial government and interested investors.

An estimated K1 million is required for the feasibility study.

The bottom line

Elk-Antelope gas likely to be bigger

BY PATRICK T.WUNDAI

THE Elk-Antelope LNG project proponent InterOil Corporation (InterOil) yesterday advised that the Antelope-5 appraisal well in petroleum retention license 15, in the Gulf Province has intersected the top reservoir at 1,534m1 at a position that was 230m higher than the operator’s reference case.

Interoil said casing has been set and the plan is to drill ahead to evaluate the reservoir at Antelope-5. After reaching total depth it is planned to conduct an extended well test at Antelope-5 with pressure gauges monitoring pressure drawdown in other appraisal wells. “This type of test gives a better idea of reservoir connectivity and productivity.

Antelope-5 is about 1.8 kilometers from Antelope-3 and is appraising the western extent of the Elk- Ante-

lope field,” InterOil said in a statement.

The Elk-Antelope LNG project is said to be the biggest in the country and probably will surpass the current ExxonMobil operated PNG LNG Project.

The successful appraisal of well and its interception of top reservoir comes on the back of yet another positive outcome of successful arbitration which ruled in favour of InterOil and Total SA.

Total SA, the France based energy giant is the preferred operator of the LNG project leading a consortium of partners including Oil Search, InterOil and the National Petroleum Company of PNG.

Total managing director Philippi Blanchard revealed recently that the Elk-Antelope LNG Project is most likely to be the bigger with a cost estimated to be more than $US25 billion (K65.87 billion – cal-

culated at current exchange rate), over a period of more than 50 years.

He also indicated that the project is most likely to have 2 gas trains to feed more than 9 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas from the Elk-Antelope gas fields.

The Government without any hesitation declared its support for Total to operate the country’s second LNG project.

The Government made it clear through the Minister for Petroleum and Energy Nixon Duban that it would want to see the Elk-Antelope project commence production by either late 2020 or early 2021.

The consortium also outlined that they are preparing for early works in 2016 after all the technical and commercial processes such as front end engineering design and final investment decision are reached sometimes this year.

Market Snapshot

$A rises as RBA gives no hint of cuts

SYDNEY: The Australian dollar has edged higher after the Reserve Bank gave no indication of further rate cuts in its latest update. At 1700 AEDT on Tuesday, the local currency was trading at 77.97 US cents, up from 77.84 cents on Monday. The Australian dollar pushed as high as 78.10 US cents after the minutes of the RBA’s February meeting gave no hints on whether they would be cutting rates.

Duracell, the battery-maker, built parts of its new international headquarters using materials from its own waste.

PETROLEUM Minister Nixon Duban fl anked by senior executives of the consortium in the Elk-Antelope project at a media brie fing at the site last year. Picture: PATRICK T WUNDAI

SMEs thrive in Simbu

BY ABRAHAM AVEDIBA

WHILE there have been arguments of the government making least efforts in growing SME, several provincial governments have initiated programs to encourage its growth.

Simbu Provincial Administration officer Rosemary Kaupa told the Post-Courier that the people of her province have progressed with a number of SME activities with the assistance of their MP.

Minister welcomes miner

MINING Minister Byron Chan has welcomed the new joint venture and farm-in partnership between Highlands Pacific and AngloAmerican, to explore for copper and gold in the Star Mountains area between Tabubil and Telefomin.

The Minister hosted the JV partners at a dinner on Monday night in Port Moresby, where he officially welcomed Anglo American’s entry into PNG’s mining industry. In

JV to explore Star Mountains

attendance were representatives from Highlands, the Chamber of Mines and MRA.

“As minister responsible for mining, I congratulate and welcome the entry of Anglo American into PNG and assure you of our commitment to assist both yourself and your PNG partner Highlands Pacific in adding value to

your project.

“PNG is a proven exploration and mining jurisdiction and your entry into the country is evidence of investor confidence in doing business in the mineral sector.”

Minister Chan told Anglo that it had come into the industry at an exciting time when the sector was progress-

ing rapidly with a number of achievements recently.

These include the grant of mining licenses to Woodlark and Crater Mountain projects last year and that before the end of this year the government was expecting the submission of feasibility studies for two of some of the largest undeveloped copper deposits

in the world which are Frieda and Wafi-Golpu projects.

“We are confident that with your combined resources and our commitment, you will be in an enviable position to develop your flagship exploration project in PNG.”

In response, the Anglo delegation head, Mr Andre van den Berg said that Anglo was looking forward to committing itself in doing business in PNG through the partnership with Highlands Pacific.

Steamies chairman retires

STEAMSHIPS long time board chairman, Bill Rothery has retired after serving on the board of Steamships for 18 years.

During his 18 years on the Steamships board, he served as a director from 1997 to 2005 and then was later appointed chairman in 2006.

Before handing the reigns to his successor, former Steamships managing director, Geoff Cundle, Mr Rothery said he was grateful to be given the role to steer the company to where it is now, going on to describe PNG as an exciting place to do business with tremendous opportunity ahead.

He said the country had just been through a purple patch, so the immediate years ahead probably would require some consolidation, but there is no

doubt that long term growth prospects will be positive.

“Steamships position will likely follow the same path. We don’t want to put undue pressure on our balance sheet so in the immediate future we’ll maximise what we’ve got and put ourselves in the best position to participate fully in that next boom,” he said.

Mr Rothery said Steamships focus on sustainability in the areas of people, the community, safety and the environment are the key pillars of a responsible company and is happy to see Steamships continue in its commitment to this very important aspiration.

He said one of the highlight of his tenure as chairman on the board was the decision to have Steamships exit the retail sec-

tor to focus on Property.

“Other highlights also include taking a cottage industry, Laga Industries out of Goroka and transforming it into a full blown manufacturer based out of Lae.

“There’s the opening of the prestigious Grand Papua Hotel and of course the 90th anniversary of Steamships when we celebrated the rich and diverse history of the company,” he said.

Mr Rothery said the parent company, Swire, has a great regard for Steamships saying PNG has played a part in shaping the careers of a number of senior Swire people.

The new chairman, Geoff Cundle will resume his role in the company’s first board meeting of the year next month.

“Support from the provincial members is vital towards assisting a SME policy to be implemented amongst the locals. And we’re very grateful that Simbu MP Noah Kool has taken the initiative to establish a couple of projects to promote SME,” Ms Kaupa said.

She explained that the issue of finding suitable vegetable markets either locally or abroad has been resolved through the establishment of Simbu Farmers Cooperative (SFC). “This initiative was wholly funded by Mr Kool and this has helped local vegetable farmers maximise their productions and sales.

“What happens is that vegetables farmers sell all their produce to this company and this company then sells their produce on behalf of them to outside markets,” Ms Kaupa added.

It was also stated that Mr Kool had funded the cocoa project in the KaramuiNomane District of Simbu Province.

Ms Kaupa said the introduction of the cocoa project into the province was quite difficult as critiques doubted the success of the project due to the environmental conditions in the area.

“The results were astonishing because huge hectares of cocoa were planted in 2007 after feasibility studies were conducted in the preceding year. Huge amounts of fine cocoa were harvested late last year in Simbu and the people continue to engage in this SME activity,” she said.

According to Ms Kaupa the Simbu governor had also funded the local fish meal processing facility for local fish farmers to enrage in.

The facility has created an opportunity for locals to process high levels on concentrated protein into mixtures for local fish farmers to purchase and feed their fish.

Challenges still remain in SME sector

BY ABRAHAM AVEDIBA

THERE remain a number of challenges facing the country’s SME sector despite efforts from various parties to establish its growth, says an SME specialist.

Lessons from day two of a one week business advisory skills program revealed various surprising facts and figures relating to the various constraints that SMEs face.

East New Britain Provincial commerce advisor Henry Tavul, a participant at the training, explained that each of the constraints vary depend-

ing on the type of business conducted in each province.

“Some SME’s are into agriculture, while others are into tourism, fishing and with each of these types of SMEs are associated challenges.

“These include lack of support from relevant authorities to access and assign markets for each of these local SMEs, changes in government policies and regulations ... and the list goes on,” Mr Tavul said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade, Commerce and Industry is currently working with various local consultants to address this issue.

IN PNG there are many ways in which to earn a living. Alongside the Mobil Service station in Port Moresby a man has found a good spot to sell his empty containers.

ROADSIDE CONTAINER MARKET

Miner plans to sell Porgera stake

MINING Minister Byron

BY JEFFREY ELAPA

Chan said Barrick Gold’s intention to sell 95 percent of shares is a commercial decision and the State has no control or privy over it.

However, he said he was aware from sources of the decision to sell its shares and the visit of an Asian company with interest in the mine. He said he did not meet with them as it was a commercial decision.

However Mr Chan said any environmental issues and relocation exercise of landowners will have to be taken on by the new buyer.

Mr Chan added that Barrick has given money for relocation but land issues need to be addressed.

He was responding to questions without notice from Lagaip-Porgera MP Nixon Mangape in relation to the 95 percent proposed sale in Parliament yesterday.

Meanwhile, Porgera Landowners Association chairman Tony Mark Ekepa said in a statement that before selling its 95 percent share off, the company must take into account the unresolved issues caused by the mine to the local communities for the past 25 years.

He said there are many un-

resolved issues like the resettlement program, mine agreement review that is underway but Barrick PNG has already positioned itself in selling its shares without consultation with stakeholders like the Porgera landowners Asso-

ciation, the only mouth piece of the seven major landowning clans in the special mine lease area.

Mr Ekepa said the landowners association strongly oppose Barrick’s intention to sell its shares without taking

ownership of the liabilities like the damages to the people and the environment by the mine’s operation.

“We have learnt our lesson and have also experienced grief and distress when Placer Dome sold its shares to Bar-

rick in 2006. “Our concerns were not addressed and yet the operator wants to sell its shares to a Chinese company without addressing the landowner’s outstanding issues.

“Thus we strongly demand Barrick to carefully analyse

all mine related liabilities and other landowners’ outstanding issues including the environmental damage and the MOU commitments.

Therefore we demand the National Government and Barrick calculate these into monetary value and attach it as a separate price tag for the liabilities with its 95 percent share market price.

“This means there should be two separate sale prices for the 95 percent value and the mine created liabilities value included as compensation package separately on its share selling package.

“If any investor wants to buy Barrick’s shares then they must purchase it with the liabilities upfront and come to mine here, otherwise there is no sale of Barrick’s shares until all outstanding issues are resolved,” Mr Ekepa said.

He said the people have also learnt from the Ok Tedi mine issue and just like the people of Porgera when Placer Dome sold its shares to Barrick, and therefore the government should stop any further sale of the mine.

The landowners said if the government has concern for its people then they should allow outstanding issues to be resolved first before such transactions take place.

BARRICK Gold, developer of the Pogera mine has announced its intention to sell its 95 percent stake in the mine to an Asian company, however landowners oppose the move indicating that the developer settle all outstanding issues before selling off its shares.

More wet weather driving precaution

WET pavement contributes to millions of traffic accidents each year.

Here are some tips you’ll want to follow the next time you’re caught driving in the rain.

Safety starts before you drive, and your goal should be to see and be seen. Replace windshield wiper inserts that leave streaks or don’t clear the glass in a single swipe.

Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are properly functioning so other drivers will see you during downpours. Turn on your headlights whenever you drive.

Proper tyre tread depth and inflation are imperative to maintaining good traction on wet roadways. Check tread depth with a quarter inserted upside down into the tire

groove. If you can see above Washington’s head, start shopping for new tires. Check each tire’s pressure, including the spare, at least once a month and be sure to check the pressure when the tyres are cold.

Avoid Cruise Control

Most modern cars feature cruise control. This feature works great in dry conditions, but when used in wet conditions, the chance of losing control of the vehicle can increase. To prevent loss of traction, the driver may need to reduce the car’s speed by lifting off the accelerator, which cannot be accomplished when cruise control is engaged. When driving in wet-weather conditions, it is important to con-

centrate fully on every aspect of driving. Avoiding cruise control will allow the driver more options to choose from when responding to a potential loss-of-traction situation, thus maximizing your safety.

Slow Down and Leave Room

Slowing down during wet weather driving can be critical to reducing a car’s chance of hydroplaning, when the tires rise up on a fi lm of water. With as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road, tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road. Drivers should reduce their speed to correspond to the amount of water on the roadway. At speeds as low as 35 mph, new tires can still lose some contact

with the roadway.

To reduce chances of hydroplaning, drivers should slow down, avoid hard braking or turning sharply and drive in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you. Also, it’s important for motorists to allow ample stopping distance between cars by increasing the following distance of the vehicle in front of them and beginning to slow down to stop for intersections, turns and other traffic early.

Responding to a Skid

Even careful drivers can experience skids. If a driver feels their car begin to skid, it’s important to not panic and follow these basic steps: Continue to look and steer in the direction in which the

driver wants the car to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this will further upset the vehicle’s balance and make it harder to control.

If you feel the car begin to skid, continue to look and steer in the direction you want the car to go. Don’t panic, and avoid slamming on the brakes to maintain control. Overall you want to be extra cautious in wet weather. Slow down, avoid hard braking or turning sharply and allow ample stopping distance between you and the cars in front of you.

Also, do these things one-at-atime. Brake, then turn, then accelerate. www.ehow.com

Council calls on vehicles owners to claim impounded vehicles

BY DIANNE WAKETSI

THE NATIONAL Road Safety Council (NRSC) is calling on vehicle owners who have their vehicles impounded at the National Road Safety Council premises to come forward and claim these vehicles.

“Most of these vehicles have been parked here for almost two years and no one is making an effort to come and claim them,” NRSC Chief Executive Officer Nelson Terema said at a press conference yesterday.

He added that since there is no law in place for the NRSC to destroy these vehicles, as they are considered unroadworthy, the vehicles are parked here until the owner sees fit to register or pay the fi nes before the vehicle is taken away.

“Although there are traffic rules and regulations in place, motorists

continue to ignore these laws,” Terema said, He added that once the Road Traffic Authority is established, such practices of unclaimed vehicles will be towed away and smashed if vehicle owners fail to pay fi nes and register vehicles under the new Road Traffic Act.

SOME of the impounded vehicles that need to be claimed at the NRSC yard NRSC CEO Nelson Terema.

Defensive driving prevents road accidents

LEARNING how to drive is a lot easier than it looks. It looks intimidating from the passenger’s seat, or in the movies, but once you get behind the wheel and gently put your foot on the pedal, the process becomes very intuitive. If you’re a defensive driver and learn to take things slow in the beginning, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the basics. This article assumes you’ll be driving an automatic transmission vehicle. If you’re

not driving an automatic, click here to learn the basics of driving stick-shift (manual transmission), although the general process will still be the same.

Many accidents happen when vehicles unexpectedly fail while driving, putting you seriously at risk. The easiest way to prevent this is by practicing good vehicle maintenance tips every time you drive. Make sure your vehicle is fully operational? Check for any

Know your traffic rules

Accidents

When you are involved in an accident, you must fi rst of all stop your car and then give any help you can to any person who has been injured. When your car or the other car is damaged, or when some person has been injured, you must report the incident as soon as possible to the nearest Police station. You must give your name and address and the registration number of your car to any person who is in the other car or any injured person.

Remember: if a policeman asks to see your licence, you must let him see it and give him your name and address.

If there is any glass or parts of the motor car on the roadway after the accident, you or the person, who takes the damaged vehicles away, must make sure they take the broken glass or parts away too, because they could damage some other person’s car later, if you leave them on the road.

Serious Traffic Offences

If you are brought before a court and charged with a serious traffic offence, such as driving when you have been drinking beer or other liquor, or driving in a dangerous manner or dangerous speed or failing to stop after an accident, you may lose your licence for a very long time, or you may even be sent to prison. So always drive properly and safely and NEVER if you have been drinking beer or other intoxication liquor.

Passenger on Motorcycle

A person can carry a passenger on a motor cycle if: -

The motor cycle has the right foot rests for the passenger, only one passenger may be carried at one time and he or she must sit BEHIND the driver.

Both the passenger and the driver must wear safety helmets that are fastened on so that they will not fall off.

Heavy Trucks

When you drive a heavy vehicle that is over four tons in weight, you must carry in the vehicle small warning signs consisting of three red reflective triangles. If your vehicle breaks down, you put these warning signals on the road, one in front of the vehicle one at the back of the vehicle and one beside the vehicle nearest the middle of the road. You do this to tell other drivers that your vehicle is broken down.

warning lights or irregular smells, inspect the tread and inflation of your tires, and be sure your mirrors and windows are clean and positioned properly. Maintaining your vehicle this way can also cut down on expensive, larger repairs later. But keeping your car in good condition isn’t just about saving you money? it could save your life. The most important safety feature in any car is the driver. Always make sure the person getting

behind the wheel is fit to operate a vehicle. Don’t drive if you are sleepy, emotional, angry or anxious, as all of these can affect your judgment and decision-making skills. Be sure you’re fully aware of your surroundings and give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go in order to cut down on tense or stressful situations. And of course? Never, ever drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol!

Even perfect drivers are unable to control every aspect of the open road? Especially when confronted with unexpected hazards or unpredictable or aggressive motorists. It’s important to watch for irregular behavior from other drivers, like frequent lane changes, speeding and swerving. If you do come across an unsafe driver, remain calm and keep your distance.

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DRIVING

Fiesta is into the future

HOW does one take a well-loved motoring icon to the next level? Ford makes a great case with the new Ford Fiesta,sporting new looks and smart technologies to help keep drivers connected.

The new Fiesta is poised to redefi ne the small car segment with its exciting new bold design, segment-leading fuel economy, class-leading safety features and allnew smart technologies, including Ford SYNC.

The new Fiesta is powered by two powertrain options: the global 1.5L twin independent variable camshaft timing

(Ti-VCT) engine, and the award-winning 1.0L EcoBoost engine available later in the year. Eight new Fiesta variants will feature the 1.5L Ti-VCT engine, in both automatic and manual transmissions, and will be available at Ford showrooms nationwide starting in August at the following pricing:

New Fiesta 1.5L Ti-VCT Sport 5-door and Titanium 4-door: PhP 868,000

New Fiesta 1.5L Ti-VCT Trend 5-door and 4-door: PhP 798,000

New Fiesta 1.5L Ti-VCT Trend 5-door and 4-door MT: PhP 748,000

New Fiesta 1.5L Ti-VCT Ambiente 5-door and 4-door MT: PhP 698,000

The new 5-door Fiesta Sport+ with the 1.0L EcoBoost engine will be available to customers later in the year.

The new Fiesta is available in ten exciting colors, including Arctic White, Black Mica, Highlight Silver, Metropolitan Grey, Ice Blue, True Red, Aurora Blue, Chili Orange, Phantom Purple and Celestial Blue.

The Ranger workhorse

ASPIRATIONAL purchasing isn’t something normally associated with commercial pick-ups, but since its 2011 launch the Ford Ranger has gained a reputation as the tradie’s ultimate status ute.

The Ford Ranger is part of a small group of premium grade dual-cab workhorses that provide car-like comfort, safety and driveability, including rivals such as the Mazda BT-50 (sister ute to the Ford) and the Volkswagen Amarok.

It’s that very duality of performance – taking driver from building site to beach – which has made the current crop of top-end dual-cab utes increasingly popular among buyers that require even greater versatility than traditional SUVs can offer.

The Ford Ranger 4×4 double-cab line up kicks off with the XL 2.2-litre TDCi (plus on-road costs) with a six-speed manual (Ford charges an additional two grand for their six-speed auto across the range) and climbs to $59,390 for the range-topping Wildtrack 3.2-litre TDCi with auto transmission.

We tested the second-from-the-top XLT 3.2-litre TDCi auto, priced from $53,990.

To put the Ford’s pricing in perspective, the Mazda equivalent to the Ranger XLT is the 3.2litre BT-50 XTR (one below the range-topping GT).

Getting more out of hiring a vehicle

EJAY Plant and Equipment Hire is a locally owned business that has branches in Port Moresby, Lae and Mt Hagen.

The company was established in January 2014 with an aim to be part of the growing industry and to provide the best service possible which is affordable for its clients both corporate and private.

The business also has a car hire arm that offers a fi xed rate daily charges on all its fleet. And what better offer is there than the fact that you get a car with a full tank in fuel.

Ejay Hire Cars have their vehicles fully prepared to ensure comfort and safety for the customer. They put servicing their fleet a priority so that customers and clients are satisfied.

Those on business or families on holidays that need to get about in style and comfort at one of these centres can call in prior to their arrival or even at the counter for a great deal on the car of their choice.

There are Toyota Landcruiser Troopers, Toyota Hilux Fifth Element and sedans like the Toyota Camry and Toyota Vista and more.

Call today to fi nd out about the car hire service and to get help on the right vehicle you need to get about your business or to take your family around sight seeing or when you just need a car for a day or two.

The staff will be too happy to help you out when you call in to enquire.

For more information, call 7369 2921, 73577102 or 72787903.

DRIVING

Freeway drives roadside assistance

ROAD Side Assistance PNG is a subsidiary of the TG Holdings Ltd. We are a locally owned company which strives to provide a service which is honest, reliable, cost worthy and up to date. As the name speaks for itself, this is a company which specialises in road side assistance for motorists within city limits. We are on call 24 hours, 7 days a week.

At RSA, we provide everything in one package making it convenient for all car owners. Our vehicles are fitted with tools and equipment to get your car going in the quickest amount of time. We have gone one step further and have included the GPS Tracking and Remote Disable & Armed hold up response and pick up (monitored by JSM Investment)

We have qualified and experienced mechanics who are on call to attend to all your car problems, day or night. Our priority is your car 24 hours, 7days a week for members of RSAPNG members only. Following are the services we offer:

Jump Start/Flat Battery

Tyre Change

Towing

Free towing is provided up to15km in any direction of the breakdown/accident site. Whether it be a normal car break down, accident or if your car was stolen and needs to be retrieved. Any other requirements will be charged accordingly.

Towing will be offered to the member’s residence (RSA provides two types of membership. Please see attached membership forms for more information) or RSAPNG head office.

For Towing out of 15km town radius, a small fee will be charged depending on the distance from 15km town radius.

Vehicles over 2.5 tonne gross weight may require specialist equipment and additional labour. This will be at the drivers cost - unless you are covered by the RSA PLANTINUM PLUS MEMBERSHIP (see attached membership forms for more information)

Basic Maintenance/Electrical Breakdown

Free attendance of up to 20km from the nearest available RSAPNG premises.

Jump start will be provided if flat battery. If need replacement, that would be at drivers cost.

Bogged Vehicle

Free attendance up to 15km from RSAPNG premises to recover your vehicle, where it can be accessed, without leaving a constructed road/driveway.

Size & weight limits may apply for bogged service.

Any special equipment or additional labour will be at the driver/members cost.

Emergency Fuel

Can deliver Unleaded or Diesel up to 20km from the nearest RSAPNG premises.

Fuel will be provided at drivers cost. For a PLATINUM PLUS member, fuel will be supplied within their respective service entitlements.

Lock-out/Key lost

Free service up to 20kms from the nearest RSAPNG premises to open vehicle when keys locked in.

Lost keys, damaged locks, or if we are unable to open vehicle, a locksmith can be arranged at the drivers cost.

*Note: up on following customers request to retrieve keys locked in a vehicle, RSAPNG will not be responsible for any minor damage that may occur.

Wheel Changing

Free attendance up to 15 km from the nearest RSAPNG premises.

If the work requires additional labour, a service fee will be charged.

*Note: when replacing the faulty tyre, we will make sure that your spare is road worthy according to the PNG Government Legislation.

GPS Tracking & Remote Disable

RSAPNG can put a GPS tracking system in your vehicle.

We can switch off vehicles ignition at any time when requested by owner of the vehicle.

Armed hold up response & pick up (monitored by JSM Investment Ltd)

Respond to distress call out to retrieve stolen vehicle.

RSAPNG will attend to any members that have been held up by criminals.

We will notify listed relatives or your employer.

money matters

THE National Development Bank continues to provide fi nancial assistance to Papua New Guineans who want to start-up and/or grow their business and for those who have sought assistance from the Bank; have agreed that it has been a contributing factor to their success and has even made their dreams become a reality.

Last week, the Lahara Play School at Boroko, in the Nation’s Capital reached a significant milestone achievement following the opening of their brand new double story building that was funded by NDB.

For the School Founder and Principal, Helen Harricknen, this was certainly a dream come true for her to see her own sweat and toil become a reality and from its humble beginnings as a Pre-school after seeing the need to provide foundation learning for young children in the country.

Since 2006, Mrs. Harricknen had been developing her own

school based curriculum incorporating her years of experience as a secondary school teacher and administrator in both the Government and Church agency schools and the International Education Agency (IEA). She has a Bachelor of Education from the University of Papua New Guinea and a Masters Degree majoring in school revitalization from the University of Southern Queensland in Toowoomba, Australia.

“NDB has assisted me to realise my dream. A dream to enable children to learn in an environment that is conducive for learning and where children feel they are special and should encourage them to work hard,” Mrs. Harricknen said.

The new building caters for offices, staffroom, a library, ablution blocks, school canteen, a hall and family residence and students of the Lahara Play School have all the more reasons to smile.

In 2013, Mrs. Harricknen visited the NDB Head Office at Waiga-

NDB helps educator realise dream Minister decries incompetency

BY MARILYN PAUL

THE current Government continues to support transparency in its dealing in the way forward to bring development and achieve most of its outputs.

Any loophole that has been in existence in government departments is being ridden and will no longer be entertained.

This was stressed further by the minister for Public Enterprise Ben Micah at a media conference held yesterday. The media conference was held by the Managing Director of the IPBC Wasantha Kumarasiri OBE and the Chairman of MVIL Dr Ken Ngangan to brief the media on the outcome and the current status of the MVIL vs Woodlawn Court Case. The case came about in 2009, after MVIL transferred 96 million kina (about AU$ 43million) to Woodlawn to invest and manage the fund with the aim of growing the fund over time.

In accordance with the court ruling, Woodlawn transferred AU$20million to Gadens Lawyers

ni for fi nancial assistance under NDB’s General Loans for the construction of the new building and after meeting all the requirements her loan was approved and work began on the building.

“I thought the approval process was going to take long but to my surprise it took only two months, and my loan application was approved.” Mrs. Harricknen said. She said that this was no doubt a boost in confidence in the Bank as it signalled its seriousness to assist Papua New Guineans who are serious in running their business.

“I recommend NDB to other Papua New Guineans venturing into smaller businesses as the waiting period for the loan approval is short given that you meet the Bank’s requirements. It is our Bank, and the money remains in the country so we also help to grow the Bank, provided loan repayments are paid and completed on time.” Mrs. Harricknen reaffi rmed.

Trust Account in PNG in December and today PGK41.9million is finally being released to MVIL. Gadens Law Firm has provided legal representation for MVIL in the matter since proceedings were initiated against Woodlawn in 2011.

Minister Micah said this was one example of having incompetent persons in top posts and on the boards of state entity that do things without considering the Acts in place to guide the business forward.

He said when he took office he came across a lot of similar situations in most of the government entity where sums of money are committed but services are partly delivered or none at all. Mr Micah reiterated that such acts will not be tolerated and whoever is caught will be dealt with accordingly.

The matter at hand is challenged in courts in Australia as well as PNG. In relation to the matter in Australia, the IPBC Board has unanimously approved legal action against those responsible for losses incurred in the transaction and the establishment of the Fund.

THE newly built Lahara Play School building, funded by NDB. Inset: Principal, Helen Harricknen and Archbishop John Ribat of the Archdiocese of Port Moresby of fi ciate at the ceremony.

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Local TV show aims to inspire kids

Hey Kidz! Wazzup? Have you tuned into TVWAN lately? Series 1 of the locally produced show, SafeKidz Gang, is airing every morning at 8:00 am!

It’s a little bit fruity, a little bit nutty and totally fun – kind of chocolate… only not so fattening! LOL.

SafeKidz Gang started about four years ago – as a live show Digicel sponsored as part of the One Earth, One Vision campaign. It’s now a popular television production aiming to inspire our nation’s youngest viewers. Actively celebrating cultural diversity, it is the fi rst children’s TV series to come out of the Pacific.

The cast includes puppets and humans, with all members sharing a strong connection to PNG. The boys and girls presenting the show were either born or raised in PNG and many of the puppets are modelled on iconic local characters - including two Highland market meris, a baby albino buka and a very cheeky, highly competitive bird of paradise puppet named Cracka.

Jazzy, an intelligent 11 year old human cast member (who moved to PNG when she was only 5 weeks old) said, “ TheSafeKidz Gang is a huge part of my life. PNG is my home. I love PNG and I love the SafeKidz Gang because I know we are teaching kids to read, respect different cultures, care for the environment, stay fit and healthy and have fun too!”

Fourteen year old Bex, originally from New Zealand added, “The thing I love most is the way that all of us kids are like one big family! We have so much fun together during fi lming and also after all of the cameras are turned off! All of the kids are so awesome, and we all have great respect for each other.”

Joey, who recently turned six, loves being involved in the show as well. “I especially love Adventure Time because we get to meet new people and go to some really cool places”, he said.

All the SafeKidz cast are looking forward to fi lming Season 2 of the popular show, which, as Jazzy explained, will be “… traveling to some remote parts of PNG where we can make new friends.” She can’t wait to share the show with children all over the country and as Digicel Play continues to extend its reach throughout PNG, it’s likely her wish will come true.

Above: KID actors from Safe Kids Gang (L-R) Bex, Ty, Jazzy, Joey, Sammy, Elly, and Netsta.

SOME of the Safe Kids Gang actors with their puppet friends.

Ex-PMs plea for Bali pair

ALL of Australia’s living former prime ministers have made a united plea for Indonesia to spare the lives of two Australian men on death row.

Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran were given the death sentence in 2006 for leading a drug trafficking group known as the Bali Nine. Former Prime Minister John Howard sought clemency saying the pair had “demonstrated genuine rehabilitation”.

They are to be moved to an Indonesian island prison this week to be executed.

Australian media said they were supposed to be moved to the Nusa Kambangan high-security prison on Wednesday but that the transfer had been delayed.

Reports cited the Indonesian attorney general as saying it was done so that Chan and Sukumaran could spend more time with their families.

Indonesia has some of the toughest drug laws in the world and ended a four-year

moratorium on executions in 2013. It has insisted the executions will go ahead.

Malcolm Fraser – who was prime minister from 1975 to 1983 – and all his successors gave their support to Australia’s continuing protest against the executions, for which no date has yet been set. Bob Hawke told The Australian newspaper that justice should be based on human understanding.

“These two men made a mistake when they were young and foolish,” he said.

“They have served their incarceration with model behaviour, and I therefore urge and plead that the government reconsider its decision to now take their lives.”

Julia Gillard said: “I personally would find it heartbreaking if such extraordinary efforts to become of good character were not met with an act of mercy, of recognition of change.”

Paul Keating and Kevin Rudd also added their voices to the plea. – BBC

HEALTH CONCERN

Teen’s stay at Aged Care unacceptable

A WEST Australian mother has told a national inquiry it is unacceptable for her teenage brain-injured daughter to be living in an aged care facility.

The Senate inquiry investigating the needs of young Australians living with a disability is holding hearings in Perth.

Inquiry chairwoman and Greens senator Rachel Siewert told the hearing more than 3,000 Australians under the age of 60 were living in aged care homes that do not suit their needs.

Kirstine Bruce said her 18-year-old daughter Ariana was living in a facility where her daily life was dictated by the routine and requirements of the elderly.

“It’s hard going into that place, seeing how they look after them, how they just get her up, put her in a wheelchair and then put her in front of a TV,” she said.

“They get her up between 10 and 12, they put her into her wheelchair and then she’s placed in front of the TV for up to four hours, and then put back to bed between two and three, and that’s her daily routine.

“It’s not appropriate for young adults.”

-ABC news

AN Australian food company has expanded a recall of frozen berries that health officials are linking to nine cases of hepatitis A. Patties Foods said on Tuesday it was recalling 1kg packs of Nanna’s Raspberries, in addition to three other mixed berry products already pulled. Picture: BBC

Quick news

FISHING CONCERNS

SAMOA’S prime minister has downplayed concerns about the number of foreign fishing vessels the government allows in its waters, the Samoa Observer newspaper reports. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi says the more licences issued to foreign companies the better, adding it’s not important how many licences are issued because the fish don’t belong to Samoa, and are migrating species. He told the newspaper that issuing more fishing licences means more money for the country, and by the time a fishing boat has collected a catch, more fish arrive from Tonga’s exclusive economic zone.

PORT DISPUTE

AMERICAN Samoa has been granted an exemption from a massive industrial dispute at ports on the West Coast of the United States, Radio New Zealand International reports. A work slow down at West Coast ports has severely affected American Samoa, with the territory facing a shortage of food and other supplies as the number of shipments has been reduced. The Pacific Maritime Association – which represents management in the dock talks – has granted an exemption for shipments to American Samoa through the Port of Oakland. But the territory’s governor, Lolo Matalasi Moliga, wants an exemption for all shipping supplies to American Samoa, similar to that which is extended to Hawaii and Guam in labour disputes that affects the islands.

SCHOLARSHIP CUTS

A KIRIBATI MP says he’s distressed to learn that the number of university scholarships available to students this year has been reduced. A former Kiribati president, and the current MP for South Tarawa Teburoro Tito says he’s been told the number of government-sponsored scholarships has been cut from 60 to 40, RNZI reports. He says he’s spoken to the education authorities and is appealing for them to award more scholarships, as they are an important investment in human resources for Kiribati. However, an education official says there has been a drop in the overall number of scholarships awarded to students due to changes made to the way OzAid and NZAid select scholarship recipients.

HANDGUN DEBATE

THE office of the attorney-general in the Northern Marianas is opposing the repeal of the territory’s Weapons Control Act, which outlaws handgun ownership, RNZI reports. This comes as David and Li-Rong Radich seek a summary judgment in a lawsuit against the Department of Public Safety, claiming it denied their second amendment rights to own handguns. The attorney-general’s office says a favourable ruling by the court would not redress the plaintiffs’ alleged injuries.

MARSHALLS ARRESTS

A TAIWAN-flagged fishing vessel, its fishing master and radio operator have been arrested in the Marshall Islands for illegal fishing and interfering with fisheries observers. The Jih Yu 212 was arrested and searched last week following a court order allowing its arrest and a search by police and Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority enforcement officers, RNZI reports. Last Tuesday, the fisheries department filed nine charges against Taiwan-based Chern Lung Fisheries Co Ltd, which owns the vessel, its fishing master and radio operator. An initial hearing is scheduled for today in the Marshall Islands high court.

ARRESTS ‘GOOD’

AMNESTY International says manslaughter charges laid against eight police officers in Fiji doesn’t necessarily mean that justice will be served, RNZI reports. The director of public prosecutions announced that eight officers and a soldier have been charged with manslaughter and rape in relation to the death of Vilikesa Soko in police custody last year. But Amnesty’s Pacific researcher, Kate Schuetze, says while the arrests are a positive development, history shows there is a long way to go to ensure justice is done.

OWN LIST PLAN

THE Cook Islands government is planning a national honours list to coincide with celebrations of 50 years of self government, the Cook Islands News reports. The finance minister Mark Brown says they want to honour a wide range of individuals for their contribution to the nation, it reports. He says the government wants a Cook Islands Honours system to complement the Queen’s Honours list in New Zealand. Mr Brown says that as a mature developing nation it is time for the Cook Islands to take responsibility and honour those achievements.

CASINO EYED

FIJI’S government is planning to push through with plans for a casino, saying there will be no referendum on the issue, RNZI reports. This comes despite opposition comments in parliament that a casino would be alien for Fiji and people should be asked whether they want one. The minister for justice Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says the tourism industry is looking forward to a casino and draft laws are in place.

REBUILD DELAYS

THE delays in rebuilding homes in Tonga’s Ha’apai island group have been put down to legal issues and “finger-pointing”. Cyclone Ian devastated the group in January 2014, and there are still 80 per cent of people affected living in tents.The Tonga Red Cross secretary-general, Sione Taumoefolau, says he is concerned about side-effects such as sanitation and disease, RNZI reports. The Red Cross had started to build temporary houses last year but the Government told them to stop, in light of its World Bank-sponsored project.

CULTURE OF ABUSE

A NURSE who worked in the Australian-run detention centre on Nauru says a culture of abuse of asylum seekers by guards has been established there, RNZI reports. Alanna Maycock says she witnessed verbal and physical abuse of asylum seekers, lack of privacy for women in the camps, a lack of sanitary towels and behavioural issues in children. Ms Maycock says there is a feeling security guards can treat asylum seekers how they want.

CLIMATE CHANGE

THE associate climate change co-ordinator for Palau says his country is desperate for ways to fight climate change. Xavier Matsutaro is leading a team visiting Tonga to study an EU-funded project constructing foreshores in eastern Tongatapu. Mr Matsutaro says the use of structures called groynes to trap sand and address coastal eroision is a concept that could be used in Palau. He says they have used other methods to combat sea level rise and erosion in the past with mixed success, RNZI reports.

Hackers hit Australian banks

AUSTRALIAN banks are among about 100 from around the world that have fallen victim to an unprecedented hacking attack, an international cyber-security company says.

Security company Kaspersky Lab said more than $1.2 billion had been stolen by hackers from a number of banks and financial institutions in the past two years across 30 countries, including Australia.

The firm said it had been investigating with Interpol to track down the criminals.

Authorities believe a group of multi-national hackers from Russia, China, Ukraine and parts of Europe use a type of virus known as Carbanak malware to access bank employee computers and ultimately get inside their networks.

Once they gain access, they can mimic the actions of cash transfer staff after watching how they operate.

The hackers then transfer money from the bank into offshore accounts, or order the bank’s ATMs to dispense cash to a waiting criminal.

The thefts mostly targeted central accounts as opposed to customer accounts and usually

At a glance

VICTIM: Australian banks are among about 100 from around the world that have fallen victim to an unprecedented hacking attack, an international cyber-security company says.

SECURITY FIRM: Kaspersky Lab said more than $1.2 billion had been stolen by hackers from a number of banks and financial institutions in the past two years across 30 countries, including Australia.

AUTHORITIES: Believe a group of multi-national hackers from Russia, China, Ukraine and parts of Europe use a type of virus known as Carbanak malware to access bank employee computers.

took up to $10 million in each raid.

Of the big four Australian banks, ANZ said it was not affected, while the Commonwealth, Westpac and National Australia Bank declined to comment on this particular attack.

In a statement, a Commonwealth Bank spokesman said cyber security was of the utmost importance.

“We don’t comment on cybersecurity matters, however, we have systems and measures in place that actively monitor and protect our customers,” it said.

Banks and financial institutions in the USA, Russia, Germany and China were among the others affected.

Kaspersky Lab Australia said the company would not release details about which institutions were hit in Australia for commercial confidentiality reasons.

Kaspersky Lab spokesman Sergey Golovanov said the attacks were very sleek and professional.

“The attackers didn’t even need to get into the bank’s services; once they got into the network, they learned how to hide the money transaction activities behind particular actions,” he said.

The Australian Federal Police said it had not received a referral relating to the matter from the banking sector. -ABC

War crimes report delayed

Govt welcomes delay

A long-awaited report into alleged atrocities committed in the final stage of Sri Lanka’s civil war has been delayed until September, the UN says.

Sri Lanka’s new government has welcomed the delay. It had given an undertaking that it would co-operate “on a whole range of human rights issues”.

Sri Lanka’s army defeated separatist Tamil Tiger rebels after 26 years of civil war in May 2009.

Both sides have been accused of committing war crimes.

The UN Human Rights Council said last year it would investigate the alleged war crimes but President Mahinda Rajapaksa - who was defeated in elections in January - refused to co-operate with the inquiry.

The new government of President Maithripala Sirisena has asked for more time to prepare for the release of the report, which was due to have been published next month.

The president was in India on Monday for landmark talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Sri Lankan government says that it needs the extra

At a glance

ACCUSATION: Sri Lanka’s army and Tamil Tiger rebels have been accused of committing war crimes.

BENEFIT: Delay woud give space for internal probe.

time to set up its own judicial inquiry into rights violations that would follow on from the findings of the UN report.

“This will give space for the domestic investigation process,” a Sri Lankan foreign ministry official said.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein welcomed the delay, saying that it is possible that “important new information” could emerge in relation to the report.

Mr Zeid said that while it was a difficult decision to allow the delay, those responsible for committing abuses would not escape justice.

“I am acutely aware that many victims... might see this as the first step towards shelving, or diluting, a report they have long feared they would never see,” he said.

-BBC news

North Korea marks late ruler’s birthday

NORTH Korea has held celebrations for the birthday of late ruler Kim Jong-Il with mass fireworks, highranking military promotions and a rally by senior officials to pledge loyalty to current leader Kim Jong-Un.

To mark the February 16 date, Kim Jong-Un promoted dozens of top military officers on Sunday and paid a midnight visit to the mausoleum housing his father’s embalmed body, the North’s state-run KCNA news agency said.

Accompanied by a large group of senior party and military members, Kim bowed deeply and in “the humblest reverence” as he paid homage at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun.

The capital Pyongyang also staged massive fireworks on Sunday night to celebrate what is known as the “Day of the Shining Star”.

The anniversaries of the births and deaths of Kim Jong-Il and his father, the country’s founding leader Kim IlSung, are major holidays on the annual North Korean calendar.

In a statement to coincide with the anniversary, US-based Human Rights Watch said Kim Jong-Il, who would have been 73, should be remembered for presiding over one of the world’s “most brutal and repressive” governments.

During his 17-year rule, “Kim presided over the country’s worst famine and oversaw systematic crimes against humanity against his own people”, the rights monitor said.

Kim died in December 2011 and was succeeded by Kim Jong-Un.

Thousands of senior military and party officials gathered in a large auditorium in Pyongyang on Sunday to vow loyalty to the Kim dynasty.

During the meeting aired on state TV, Choe Ryong-Hae, one of Kim’s closest aides and general secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party, urged officials to protect the young leader with their lives.

In a keynote speech Choe praised Kim Jong-Il for promoting nucleararmed North Korea “to the echelon of the world’s top military powerhouse”.

“All party members and people should continue to follow the steps of the great general (Jong-Il)... under the guidance of comrade Kim Jong-Un,” he said.

The audience sat under a massive banner reading “The great leader Kim Jong-Il is always with us”.

The Kim dynasty has ruled the isolated state for nearly seven decades with an iron fist and pervasive personality cult. -ABC news

Bali duo transfer postponed

KEROBOKAN: Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan will not be moved from their Bali jail cells for execution this week, authorities say.

A spokesman for Indonesia’s attorney-general said their transfer has been delayed because Nusakambangan island, where they will be executed, is not yet ready.

Spokesman Tony Spontana also

said the Australian government had requested more time for Chan and Sukumaran to spend with their families, and a Brazilian prisoner also due to be executed was suffering a mental illness.

“I’m sure this week there won’t be any transfers,” he told reporters in Jakarta.

-AAP news

BOTH the army and Tamil Tiger rebels are accused of committing war crimes at the end of the war in 2009. Picture: BBC

Relatives demand vengeance

RELATIVES of Coptic Christians beheaded in Libya by jihadists are still demanding vengeance despite Egypt launching deadly airstrikes in response to the atrocity.

The killings were the latest incident showcasing Islamic State’s brutality and the way the Syrian conflict has fed instability elsewhere, which now threatens to open up a new front in the US-led war against the extremists.

Egypt has called for the USled coalition targeting Islamic State in Iraq and Syria - which includes Australia - to expand its mission into Libya.

In the little village of ElOar, near the Nile, about 200 kilometres south of Cairo, Coptic Christians mourned the deaths of 13 of the 21 men beheaded by an IS affiliate group.

On Monday a video was released showing the decapitation of the Copts who were kidnapped in wartorn Libya last month.

The horror of the video spread panic among Egyp-

tians who still have dear ones working in Libya.

“This is a criminal act perpetrated by people who are barbaric,” priest Father Tawadros said.

“They have no humanity. They do not belong to religions of the sky or religions of the Earth. They’re not humans. They’re monsters.”

For the relatives of the dead, the only hope now is that they might get the bodies back so they can be given a Christian burial. But some also thirst for vengeance.

“President (Abdel Fattah al-) Sisi must let us join the army and send us out there to avenge the deaths of our sons,” said one man called Fawzi. Egypt was swift to react after the release of the beheadings video, with its warplanes bombing jihadist targets in Libya in response.

Authorities have also offered compensation to the relatives of the victims - more than $US25,000, half of which was pledged by a private company. -ABC news

Ukraine truce shaky

UKRAINE forces and pro-Russian rebels are accusing each other of attacks, holding up an agreed pull-back of heavy weapons from the frontline. Both sides were meant to start withdrawing heavy weaponry from the frontline no later than two days after the start of a ceasefire that was meant to come into effect from midnight Saturday (local time).

However fighting still persists around the key government-held town of Debaltseve in Ukraine’s east, and both sides accuse each other of continued firing.

Kiev military spokesman Andriy Lysenko said rebels had continued to attack government positions and five Ukrainian soldiers had been killed and 25 wounded since the ceasefire came into force.

“The pre-condition for withdrawal of heavy weapons is fulfilling point one of the Minsk agreements - the ceasefire. 112 attacks are not an indicator of a ceasefire,” Mr Lysenko told a briefing. “At the moment we are not ready to withdraw heavy weapons.”

But Eduard Basurin, a spokesman for the defence ministry of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic, blamed Kiev for the breaches. -ABC news

RELATIVES and neighbours of the beheaded Copts mourn in El-Oar village.

Picture: ABC/REUTERS

We are having

Open

on Thursday 19th February, in conjunction with Luxury

Come along and meet Brent Tate from the North Queensland Cowboys, he will be onsite from 9am.

We will have a traditional Lihirian Dance group performing during the day.

All day BBQ and door prizes to win!

Solution to puzzle SL0854

stars

March 20 - April 19

After a period during which you’ve had to be uncharacteristically patient, you’ve learned a lot. But you’re ready for a change. That’s coming. In fact, with both your ruler Mars and Venus, which accents money and relationship, moving into Aries on the 20th, the tide will turn your way overnight.

April 20 - May 19

Some say you’ve avoided certain issues for fear of the battle confronting them would cause. But, actually, you’ve been unable to see a way out. Amazingly, events are about to reveal a path that will resolve those problems. Even better, you’ll soon discover they’ll be dealt with more swiftly than you’d conceived possible.

May 21 - June 20

Although your ruler Mercury’s cycle of reverse moment ended a week ago, you’re still dealing with fallout and confusion. Disruptive as this may be, it’s also giving you a chance to review certain decisions made while it was retrograde. What you learn won’t just be revealing, it could lead to timely changes.

June 21 - July 21

Typically, the New Moon is a time of stillness. Yet you’re so busy dealing with ongoing changes in your life and the circumstances of others, things could hardly be described as being quiet or still. However, this period is also about breakthroughs, which you’ll soon realise are exactly what’s needed.

July 22 - August 22

You probably don’t give it much thought. But when your ruler the Sun moves into a new sign, each month, as it just has, your focus shifts. It’s departed the rather detached, analytical Aquarius for intuitive, sentimental Pisces. Don’t be surprised if, suddenly, you’re more aware of the feelings of others.

August 23 - September 22

The idea of trusting your instincts has been in your mind, especially when situations arose that were so complex they defied ordinary analysis. Although you may have relied on those feelings then, you still tend to seek practical backup. If you’re anxious about major decisions, first experiment with more minor situations.

September 23 - October 22

For ages you’ve been wrestling with confusion about one particularly important relationship. It may be professional, a close friend or romantic. The issue is, what’s next. The current New Moon and its accompanying fresh perspective should offer exactly the insights necessary first, to clear your mind, then to discuss plans with others.

October 23 - November 22

For weeks you’ve had certain tricky issues involving family or domestic matters on your mind. However, there’s never been the right time to raise these. Now events will do it for you, although it’s because these issues are now pressing. Waste no time on reflection. Others are eager to talk things over.

November 23 - December 22

When certain ideas first arose, they seemed both potentially rewarding and uncomplicated. Unfortunately, they’ve proved the reverse. Yet you’re reluctant to give up. Do so. The period between now and early March is about decluttering your life and, in the process, paving the way for the miraculous developments to follow.

December 21 - January 19

Long ago you learned that while charm can work wonders, in most situations it’s best to be armed with hard facts. Yet with so much in transition, even you are having a tough time gathering reliable information. Instead, suggest you join with others in seeking out the knowledge you’d all benefit from.

January 20 - February 17

It’s not that you’ve been holding back and you certainly haven’t been hiding anything. Yet there are certain facts you haven’t discussed at all. The reason is, you haven’t actually dealt with the matters in question yourself. Ironically, talking them over with others could clear your own mind.

February 18 - March

Planning ahead has its virtues. For now, you’re better off taking things slowly, and continuing the extensive review that’s been central to your life since early this year. Gradually you’ll recognise what works, what needs to be changed and what must go. Only after that should you begin to consider the future.

Condolence Message

The Board, Management & Staff of Airlines PNG, would like to convey sincere condolences to the immediate family of the late

EDWARD BENEDICT DALA

Who passed away February 13, 2015

For those of us who knew Ed – either personally or professionally – his passing is a great loss and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, colleagues and the Esselars Team.

May His Soul Rest In Eternal Peace

Public Notice

Announcement of 2015 Orders of Papua New Guinea Investitures

The Office of the Governor General – Government House will host two investiture ceremonies in March 2015 for the 2014 Orders of Papua New Guinea Independence Anniversary Honours and the 2015 Orders of Papua New Guinea New Year’s Honours

Details are as follows:

Event: 2014 Orders of Papua New Guinea Independence Anniversary Honours Investiture Ceremony

Date: Thursday 19th March 2015

Time: 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Venue: Government House – Port Moresby

Dress: Formal

Event: 2015 Orders of Papua New Guinea New Year’s Honours Investiture Ceremony

Date: Thursday 26th March 2015

Time: 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Venue: Government House – Port Moresby

Dress: Formal

All notified recipients of the above Orders of Papua New Guinea Honours lists are hereby advised to contact the Office of the Governor General on Tel: 313 7000 and ask for Mr. Maguli Bernard and/or Mr. Gavera Igo. Queries and confirmation of attendance can also be directed by email to Mr. Maguli Bernard at: mbennard@governmenthouse.gov.pg and/or Mrs. Nelly Pouna at: npouna@governmenthouse.gov.pg.

Due to limited space each recipient is allowed two guests only. Expected time of arrival for all recipients at Government House is 12:00pm. All recipients are kindly asked to make the necessary arrangement to attend the Investiture ceremony on the date(s) stated above.

Tipo Vuatha, LVO, MBE Official Secretary

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral and independent organisation whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. The ICRC also endeavours to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles.

The ICRC Mission in Papua New Guinea is looking for qualified candidates to fill its vacancy for: HEALTH FIELD OFFICER – MOUNT HAGEN

The Health Field Officer will contribute to the implementation and running of health projects / programs, maintain and develop contacts with relevant interlocutors including health authorities and PNG Red Cross and provide necessary support required by Head of Department.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintain confidentiality of all medical files and individuals cases.

Carry out First Aid training (FAT).

Undertake travel to various locations within the Southern Highlands and Hela Province. This may entail undertaking duties outside usual office hours and time away from Mount Hagen, up to 5 nights (rarely).

Write concise and clear reports in English as prescribed by the Head of Department. Assist senior medical field officer in weekly tasks.

Be aware of socio-political situation in PNG and keep information up to date.

Channel all relevant information related to the context, in general and in specific surroundings to the appropriate responsible person.

Provide clear, concise and in-depth health analysis.

Create, interpret and analyze excel and mapping documents.

Interpret when required.

Translate technical documents for health activities and training sessions.

Support monitoring, evaluation and reporting.

Support Logistics of Heath Department

Assist the Health Manager / Head of Office with the implementation of ICRC supportive program to PNG Red Cross. Assist the Head of Department in preparing, organizing and implementing FA training lectures. Dissemination/Presentation of ICRC activities to interlocutors.

BACKGOUND AND SKILLS

Fluent in written and spoken English and in local language(s), a plus if Huli.

Please send your resume and cover letter by email only with the subject as HFO MOH 2015 to pom_port-moresby@ icrc.org , attention to the Administrator. Applications will close on 27 February 2015 Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Lihir Gold, a member of the Newcrest Mining Limited, operates the world class Lihir gold mine located on the tropical island of Lihir and provides residents with a peaceful and secure lifestyle. Fly-in, Fly-out employees enjoy a 15 day on 13 day off roster and are accommodated in wellappointed camps which include full dining, laundry services, and a modern medical centre. We are currently seeking a suitably qualified and highly motivated candidate for the following positions:

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN – FITTERS (X6)

Reporting to the Fixed Plant Maintenance Coordinator, the primary purpose of these positions is to carry out maintenance on fixed plant equipment including Pumps, Grinding Plant, Flotation Cells, Mills and related equipment.

Key elements of the role include: standards.

Qualifications / Experience / Attributes Required: environment.

Applicants must be safety conscious and be able to work in a multi-cultural work environment. interview.

Applications close 5th March 2015 and must be addressed to;

Senior HR Advisor - Recruitment

Newcrest Mining Limited - Lihir Operation PO Box 789. Port Moresby. NCD Fax: 986 5424

RecruitPNG@newcrest.com.au www.newcrest.com.au

The Miner of Choice

PROJECT PROFESSIONAL- YOUR NEXT CAREER MOVE

Newcrest Mining is seeking an experienced project administrator that is looking a diverse role that offers challenge and a balanced life style.

As our Superintendent – Project Services Your goal will be to ensure that projects are finished before schedule and under budget. You will coordinate and lead a team, in budget administration, providing analysis, keeping records, and forecasting financial objectives for large scale projects.

About us:

Lihir Gold, a member of the Newcrest Mining Limited, operates the world class Lihir gold mine located on the tropical island of Lihir and provides employees with a peaceful and secure lifestyle. Fly-in, Fly-out employees enjoy good work life balance with a 21 day on 14 day off roster. Our people are accommodated in well-appointed camps which include full dining, laundry services, and a modern medical centre. We provide tennis, squash, swimming facilities as well as a fully operational gymnasium. All employees have access to continuous career and professional development.

Key Attributes you should possess:

Able to Interpret project goals,

Ability set deadlines, and manage others to meet them

Understand financial boundaries so you can best allocate resources and schedule project deadlines

Ability to develop and implement systems and procedures

Able to conduct risk analysis evaluations

A passion to train and mentor others

How to apply:

Experience and qualifications:

A tertiary qualification in building, Civil Engineering, Accounting or Project Management

5 years + project administration, advantage to be within the mining projects

5 years+ contract administration experience

Experience in cost administration and or accounting is essential

Experience with SAP would be an advantage

Competent computer skills in MS Office applications, particularly MS project

Superior interpersonal communication skills, oral and written, in English.

If you believe you have some or all the attributes listed above, Lihir Gold Limited wants to talk to you about this excellent career opportunity.

Give us a call to talk about this opportunity or send your applications to:

Closing date: 27th February 2015

Senior HR Advisor – Recruitment

Newcrest Mining Limited, Lihir Operation PO Box 789, Port Moresby NCD Phone: 9865 377

Fax: 986 5424

Email: RecruitPNG@newcrest.com.au

Lihir Gold, a member of the Newcrest Mining Limited, operates the world class Lihir gold mine located on the tropical island of Lihir and provides residents with a peaceful and secure lifestyle. Fly-in, Fly-out employees enjoy a 15 day on 13 day off roster and are accommodated in well-appointed camps which include full dining, laundry services, and a modern medical centre. We are currently seeking a suitably qualified and highly motivated candidate for the following position:

TRADESMAN ELECTRICIAN RR 1969

Reporting to the Electrical Supervisor - Process Plant, the successful candidate main role will be to carryout day-to-day Process Plant electrical maintenance tasks to achieve consistently high standards of safety, availability and reliability.

Key Elements of the role include: within the Process Plant area, including High Voltage equipment and Variable speed drives. maintenance programs. projects.

The successful candidate will have: Mining Process Plant or an allied industry.

Those without an electrical license need not apply. supervision.

Senior Advisor- Recruitment Newcrest Mining Limited, Lihir Operations PO Box 789, Port Moresby NCD Fax: 986 5424 RecruitPNG@newcrest.com.au www.newcrest.com.au

The Miner of Choice

Study Overview

INVITATION FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST(CONSULTING SERVICES)

Issues and Developments of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and Policy Strategies for their Improvement in Papua New Guinea

Reforming State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) has become a critical development agenda in many developing countries. A key motive behind the reforms is to improve the delivery of essential services such as water, electricity, and telecommunication services provided by SOEs in a monopolistic environment. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), SOEs have experienced several policy shifts since independence in 1975. Essential services were initially provided by entities structured as Government Departments which later became Corporations and then incorporated companies under the Companies Act. At this point in time, most SOEs operate under the Companies Act and are overseen by the Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC) which is a shareholder trustee on behalf of the Government and people of PNG. A debate and discussion around the performance of SOEs and their non-performance in the effective delivery of critical services required for development of PNG is ongoing.

The National Research Institute (NRI), PNG’s leading think-tank on public policy and development-related issues, has initiated a Research Program that will contribute to the discussions and eventually sound policy recommendations for improvements in SOEs performance. The work will be carried out over three (3) Phases. Phase 1 will review the historical developments of SOEs and outline key policy and administrative challenges and discuss the question how past policy shifts have addressed these issues. Phase 2 will involve further in-depth analysis of the major issues being confronted by SOEs and consider various strategies for the development of SOEs. Based on the broader policy directions provided in Phases 1 and 2, Phase 3 will look at a specific sector or SOE, for example electricity, and analytically contribute to the thinking and discussions on how performance in this sector could be improved.

Phase 1 and Phase 2 Objectives

Phases 1 and 2 studies will be undertaken concurrently. The overall objectives are to:

and key legislative and administrative changes that have evolved over time; outline key policy shifts and reforms that were initiated to address these issues; articulate policy strategies to improve the development of SOEs.

Scope of Assignment Consultancy firms or individuals are invited to indicate their interest in providing consulting services for the study. Interested consultants must provide specific information that demonstrates that they are fully qualified to perform the service. The selected consultant(s) will work simultaneously on Phase 1 and Phase 2. The scope of the assignment will cover:

Phase 1: Documentation of the development of SOEs since Independence, highlighting the establishment of the State institutions, the legislative and administrative arrangements.

Analysis of issues and challenges that have impacted on the performance of SOEs in the past, and the policy shifts and reforms that have been introduced.

Phase 2: Identification and discussion on topical issues that are being faced at this period of time, which are featured in the current debate on SOEs in the country.

Policy strategies to address these issues and support the efforts to improving performances of SOEs.

Interested individuals and/or institutions with relevant experience in consulting and research in SOEs are encouraged to submit their bid to undertake one or both Phases of the consultancy.

Further information including Terms of Reference for the study can be obtained by contacting Ronald Sofe on email: rsofe@nri.org.pg or ronsofe@gmail.com or Tel: (675) 3260300; Fax: (675) 3260213.

All completed tenders must be placed in a sealed envelope, marked clearly with description of the project and submitted at the NRI Reception area. The tender closes on Friday 13th March 2015.

Attention: The Chairman NRI Tenders Committee National Research Institute P.O Box 5854 BOROKO, National Capital District

Authorized by: Dr. Thomas Webster, NRI Director

Oro’s big chance

BY JOE GURINA SOCCER

ORO have a chance to prove their staying ability against champions Hekari United in the Telikom National Soccer League (NSL) washed-out match at Bomana today at 2pm.

This match is a crucial one for them, as it will decide whether they are ‘pretenders’ or potential ‘contenders’ this season.

Under the guidance of former international Joe Turia, the team is optimistic about their chances.

On Saturday Oro brushed aside a classier FC Pom outfit 3-1.

With the confidence growing in the camp after that win…today’s matchup will determine where they stand.

However, they will find a hot and bothered Hekari, who will be forced to bring out the big guns after shooting blanks against lowly rated Admiralty.

Hekari coach Jerry Alan is also under the pump to produce with the O-League just around the corner as well.

You can expect Hekari to

push for a big win with a more physical approach for today’s bumper clash.

When asked how Oro will fare against a firedup Hekari, Turia yesterday said they are up against a well resourced team that only knows how to win at this level.

“Our fingers are crossed at the moment as to how we will perform,” he said. “It’s hard to tell, they are the champions. We will play the way we have been playing and hope the ball bounces our way,” Turia added.

Mining and telecom sector partners with MRFU

RUGBY UNION

THE mining and telecommunication sector have come on board to partner the Morobe Rugby Football Union (MRFU) in season 2015.

The deal is anticipated to extend into the future.

The MRFU received a double bonus with the backing from prominent businesses firms Anitua Hardware, a subsidiary of the Anitua Group of Companies and the business arm for landowners of the Lihir Gold mine in New Ireland.

The other is telecommunication giant Bmobile Vodafone. MRFU president Living-

stone Nenjipa announced on Saturday that Anitua Limited have come on board for the first time to back the premier union competition in Morobe with K10, 000.

Bmobile Vodafone in PNG group facilities and security manager David Pidik also announced its backing as the official communications provider for the MRFU.

“Bmobile Vodafone is proud to be the official communications provider for the start of Morobe rugby union sevens season,” said Pidik.

He also made the commitment for Bmobile Vodafone to support the development of MRFU in the future.

Kuma Cowboys triumph at Jiwaka Challenge

KUMA Cowboys have taken out the Coca-Cola Ipatas Cup Jiwaka challenge.

The Cowboys beat Banz Eka Wunnu 10-0 at the Baning Oval to secure the gold pass and K5000 to the play-offs in Lae. Banz Eka Wunnu, as runners-up received K2, 500.

Kerex Rangers and Kerex Raiders also received cash prizes for

their efforts. The Jiwaka challenge started on January 30 had attracted eight teams.

Four teams, Sovereign Real Estate Panthers, Minj KK Rebels and Haco Spiders were unable to secure space in the top four.

On Saturday, Kuma Cowboys beat Kerex Raiders 10-4 and Banz Eka Wunnu edged out Kerex Rangers 12-8. The two Kerex spon-

sored teams bowed out of the finals while Wunnu and the Cowboys met on Sunday in the play-off.

Executives of Ipatas Cup commended the locals for their good behavior and Baning league executives for allowing them to use the facilities to host the competition.

This now completes the Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka and Western Highland’s legs of the chal-

lenge. It is understood that the Baning League has been chosen to host the second semi-finals for the western-end challenge next month.

Meanwhile the Enga and Southern Highlands legs were played over the weekend at the Tente Oval in Mendi, Paiam Sports complex and Bit Street soccer field in the heart of Wabag town.

Both Enga and South-

ern Highland’s challenges will also be moved to a neutral venue to complete their matches aswell.

The executives of the competition are waiting for the head co-coordinator Jude Koke (Southern Highlands) and Nathan Anjo (Enga) to submit the full report on the ground.

While the Hela challenges will get underway at Koroba this weekend.

COCA- Cola Ipatas Cup Highlands match commissioner Mal Taime handing over the K5,000 prize money to Kuma Cowboys on Sunday.

HEKARI’S Tommy Semmy, Daniel Joe and goal-keeper Ismael Pole will lift the tempo in today’s clash with rivals Oro at Bomana.

In 2002, Germany’s Oliver Kahn became the first goalkeeper to win the Most Valuable Player of the World Cup.

The bottom line

REPRESENTATIVES shaking hands.

Hunters squad named

RUGBY LEAGUE

THE SP Hunters have named their squad for this Saturday afternoon’s trial game against the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve (5.30pm).

The match is the only preseason trial for the SP Hunters and will be televised live on TV Wan.

Wartovo Puara and Thompson Teteh will take their places in the trial after returning from their 6-week train and trial stint with South Sydney said coach Michael Marum.

Women’s soccer hope lies on IRC

SOCCER

PAPUA NEW GUINEA’S hopes of hosting a women’s Under20 FIFA World Cup next year now rests with a Government department.

Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and PNG Football Associating president David Chung told Post-Courier this while appealing to Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) to give their letter of approval.

The Under-20 FIFA World Cup tournament has been endorsed by the National Executive Council with other Government departments executing the NEC’s endorsement.

“I appeal to the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) to give us the approval as time is against us,” Chung said. Chung is adamant to push for PNG to host one of FIFA’s major tournaments next year, as it will put the country on the world map.

“We have received confirmation and approval from other Government Departments but we are still waiting on the IRC to release their letter of approval,” he said.

Such big tournaments like the FIFA World Cup requires Government intervention for security, immigration, customs, immigration, Foregin Affairs and tax exemptionthis is where IRC comes in, said Chung.

He said the IRC is the only department they were waiting for.

“I am still hopefully that we will get the letter of approval on time.

“This is a once in a lifetime chance for us to portray our country, our PNG.

“While we would have liked to see both players stay with South Sydney it’s a bonus to have them back and it will certainly strengthen our squad,” he stated in a media statement yesterday.

“We are happy to have them both back and hope the experience has made them even better players. I know both players will be looking forward to a big season with the Hunters and the possibility of another crack at the NRL,” he added. The SP Hunters have named a 21-man squad

with several players excluded while overcoming off-season surgery and injury.

These include Adex Wera, Sebastian Pandia, Timothy Lomai, Noel Zeming and Edward Goma. “We want to make sure the majority of the squad is fit and ready for the start of the season. So it is a chance for all the new players to step up and show that they deserve a spot in the 18 for our first game in three weeks time,” said Marum.

The SP Hunters Queensland

Intrust Super Cup season opener is against the South Logan Magpies in Brisbane on Sunday March 8. Meanwhile the SP Hunters season launch will be a week earlier on March 1 at the Gateway Hotel.

All die-hard fans are welcome to attend.

Tables are available for the event at K4,500 per table of 10 or K450 per person.

For all enquiries and bookings contact Brad Tassell at: brad@pngrfl.org.pg or phone 71114699. The SP Hunters

travelling party: Stargroth Amean, Thompson Teteh, Kato Ottio, David Lapua, Israel Eliab, Roger Laka, Brandy Peter, Wartovo Puara Jnr, Esau Siune, Willie Minoga, Adam Korave, Warren Glare, Lawrence Tu’u, Enock Maki, Ate Bina Wabo, Ase Boas, Henry Wan, Bland Abavu, JayJay Garison, Nickson Borana and John Ragi.

New Season Merchandise will be available for sale at the match for the first time leading into the SP Hunters 2015 Intrust Super Cup Season.

Pro bout to be staged in Buka

BOXING

SBC Events and Promotions Inc have announced that a professional bout has been confirmed for February 28 in Buka, Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Promoter, referee and judge Alex Rihatta announced that 28 year-old Stephen Korin from Buka will fight PNG welterweight title holder Douglas Walo in the 66kg division, in a non-title fight.

Rihatta said the fight will be Korin’s first professional fight, and has been scheduled for 10 rounds.

“Both are aggressive boxers and

they should provide good action and entertainment for those that get to watch the fight,” Rihatta added.

He said there will be professional undercard fights as well.

“Opening the day is Harris John Tsigala from Iyelilina Hanahan and Port Moresby-based pro-boxer Richard Kikira, both from the Halia Constituency in the undercard bout,” Rihatta said.

He said the trainers and coaches of the fighters are Steven Kevi, Tovin Rowa and Benjamin Tenevi. Rihatta said this will be the first time for professional boxing to be

staged in Buka. Promotional company SBC Events and Promotions Inc is working hard around the clock to confirm the venue, boxers medical clearances, license and others on time for the event.

Rihatta, who is also the CEO of SBC Events and Promotions, appealed to all four pro boxers and their management to meet the requirements by paying the appropriate registration fees and to submit medical clearances to the PNG Professional Boxing Control Board, the governing body of professional boxing in the country.

PNGFA/OFC president and FIFA vice-president David Chung.

THE 2015 SP Hunters squad.

Another Emil in the making

BY KILA NAO RUGBY LEAGUE

LIKE father like son.

Robin Emil, son of the late former Kumul Aquila Emil is showing the traits of a talented footballer in the making.

The rising talent featured prominently for the Moresby South Blacks team that won the PNGRFL southern confederation Digicel 9s Cup final at Kwikila on Sunday.

Emil captained the team and was a stand-out performer on the wing over the two days.

Whilst the talented teenager may not have his father’s playmaking skills, the young man backs it up with his blinding speed. Something the late Emil was known for in broken play.

Robin has not been an instant hit like his famous ‘old man’ but served notice while representing his mother’s village team (Porebada Sharks) in several Central Province nine’s tournaments.

Now based at Mahuru village (Kira Kira) the speedster has joined up with the Mahuru Eagles.

Life has since changed a lot for him with the wiry speed merchant being a much sought after player in the shortened version of the game.

He proved his capabilities when he skippered the Mahuru Eagles at the Lakwahuru 9’s tournament and in the Moresby South Rugby league completion in 2013 and 2014.

Born Robin Emil Pala on February 20, 1996, he is the biological son of the former Kumul legend from New Hanover, New Ireland Province. He said he was brought up by his aunty Gohuke Pala and grand-mother Morea Kovae at their Porebada village af-

ter his biological mother gave him away when he was a year old.

“Rugby league is popular at the village and I quickly got into the game like most of my school mates at Porebada Primary School,” he said.

“We used to play touch rugby every recess and lunch-time, and I guess my love for the game grew because I didn’t do too well in school,” he added.

“I was more into playing sports, going fishing and hunting,” he said.

The match winning performance at Kwikila has now catapulted the young man to the national scene, as the Moresby South Blacks will represent the Southern Confederate at the Pacific Balance Fund Limited sponsored PNGRFL Super 9’s tournament from March 1315 in Lae.

“We have some great players in our midst like former Kumul Larsen Marape, Steven Johns and former Gulf Isapea Jason Koivi who made our job easier,” he said.

“We are now looking forward to going to Lae as this is a big step for me and hopefully we can continue our good form,” he said.

“I also thank my family for their support and the coaching staff in our team especially our head coach Bagelo Solien,” said Emil.

Solien has nothing but praise for his deadly finisher and predicts a bright future ahead of him if he gets noticed.

“Nothing is perfect more than self belief and discipline and Robin (Emil) has all that as he demonstrates his leadership on and off the field…and that’s what makes him standout ahead of the rest,” Solien added.

Southern leg gets underway in Ipatas Cup

BY JOE GURINA RUGBY LEAGUE

TWENTY four teams are all set in a bid to vie for the Gold Pass in the Southern leg of the Coca- Cola Ipatas Cup (CCIC) this weekend in Port Moresby.

From this challenge only two teams will receive the gold pass entry to compete for the K160,000 prize money later in the year.

CCIC CEO Timothy Lepa yesterday said during the launching of the competition in Port Moresby that the

teams will be slotted into four pools of six respectively.

He confirmed that first place teams in each pool go into the playoffs and the winners of the two respective play-offs will get the gold pass.

“There is no final, the winners of the two play-offs will receive the gold pass,” he clarified. Lepa confirmed that Laloki High School outside Port Moresby and the Mc Gregor Police Barracks Oval will be the venues for the games.

He confirmed that so far four gold passes out of 16 have been handed out to winners

of each centre that include Jiwaka (Kuma Cowboys), Hagen (Monopu Tribesman) and Goroka (EMO Brothers).

He said the Lae play offs for both Crushers and Kamkumu Brothers is still pending a decision from the PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka, who has been tasked to deliberate on the issue.

He said the Southern leg will be a crucial one as some of the strongest teams from the Port Moresby off-season leagues are taking part.

CCIC southern region judiciary chairman Brian Jeme-

jeme yesterday confirmed the 24 teams. The 24 teams are: Freeway Bumpers, Parisco Brothers, Kay Juniors, NCC Carpets, Whitehaven Lagaip Brothers, Bige Petroleum Warriors, Koki Gabutu Brothers,, Tia Broncos, Six- Mile Storms, Manase Matiroko Chiefs, 9mile Giants, Warako Dust, Pom Diwai, Toks Mis Dogs, Waigani Ilarais, Bang 36 North East, Raiders Namona, Dep Eels, Port Moresy Muruks, Bomai Yal, Magani, M3 Bulldogs, Metro Rabgers and Lau Rangers. CCIC CEO Timothy Lepa.

league

a ball contact sport, that involves passing and kicking an oval shaped ball.

MORESBY South Blacks skipper Robin Emil (above), late Acquila Emil in action for the Vipers.