VILLAGERS at Porebada west of Port Moresby on Monday caught a 3-metre crocodile before it could attack anyone.
They believed the same crocodile has been seen recently at neighbouring Boera village, prompting villagers to sound an alarm for others to keep a close watch.
The Porebada villagers are seen here admiring and taking pictures of the ancient creature after capturing it.
Pictures: HAVATA LOHIA
VILLAGERS watched in horror as crocodiles fought over the body of a teenager at the weekend in Bougainville.
“Villagers present couldn’t believe what they were seeing. It was like watching a movie,”
said villager Gabriel Pama. The unbelievable scene climaxed with the teenager’s body being ripped to pieces in front of them, said Mr Pama. The attack on Saturday unfolded at Arakabauru River at Manetai in Central Bougainville.
CONTINUED PAGE 2
THEREis a lot at stake in July this year when the National Capital District plays host to the region’s largest sporting extravaganza – the 2015 Pacific Games.
First on the line is our reputation as the Pacific Islands’ largest state and our ability to give the 3500 athletes and spectators from the 24 different nations and territories a sporting spectacle to remember in the years to come. National pride should now take centre stage as we work together to ensure our Pacific Island visitors feel welcome, are looked after and return to their home countries and territories with fond memories of Papua New Guinea (PNG).
It is for this and other reasons why the actions of vandals in Port Moresby to deface the giant bluecoloured statue of a swimmer at the PNG Motors and Murray Barracks roundabout should be condemned by all sensible Papua New Guineans. The criminal act overnight confirms that we have sick individuals in our midst who lack character and a spirit of nationalism, to put the interest of the nation above theirs and ensure public property are not damaged, defaced or vandalised and instead protected.
The Minister for Sports and Pacific Games, Justin Tkatchenko, yesterday offered a reward of K10,000 to anyone with information which would lead to the capture and arrest of those responsible for the graffiti. He indicated that he will go one step further and introduce a private member’s bill to introduce tougher laws against individuals who destroy public property. The enactment of such legislation is a step in the right direction and should serve as a deterrent to those considering similar illegal actions.
While we appreciate that there were concerns over the awarding of contracts for games infrastructure and the increasing costs, we cannot change the fact that we – yes we Papua New Guineans – are hosting the games this year. Therefore, it is important that we unite to ensure the July 4-18 event goes as scheduled.
In fact it would be a great service to this country if those individuals responsible for the graffiti are identified and handed over to the authorities, without those assisting the investigations seeking payment or compensation of any sort. It can be your contribution to a better and memorable 2015 Pacific Games. There were also suggestions on social media for the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) to put fences around the various statues that are being set up in the different locations.
We have only three months left before the 2015 Pacific Games opening ceremony and it is important that we start thinking as a nation and speaking with one voice. We need to start taking ownership of the various games-related public infrastructure projects in and around Port Moresby in preparation for the games. While we look forward with anticipation to the arrest of the graffiti artists who defaced the statue, having the right attitude towards our hosting of the games and being able to put one’s hands up to ensure our visitors will be treated with respect and dignity will go a long way in ensuring it becomes the best games ever.
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Bougainville Today ..............20 Business ..........................22-24
Classifieds .......................42-54
Comics..................................41
Highlands Post.....................17
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VERY angry education service providers in the National Capital District want the National Executive Council to review its decision on their settlements claims worth millions of kina on work done during the past eight years.
The NEC had advised that the entire settlement claims by the contractors, in the millions of kina, was illegal and had also directed
the Education Department to consult with city hall to ensure unfinished school projects were completed through proper procurement procedures. The blanket decision by NEC did not go down well with contractors who gathered outside the Education Department head office at Waigani yesterday to claim that the NEC was ill-advised by Education to reach the decision that their entire settlement claims were illegal. They
said that if NEC had made that decision then it would mean that all their school infrastructure projects, including work done to the Office of Library and Archives, were are also illegal and must be removed. They wanted a review decision by the end of the week otherwise they would pull down or shut infrastructure in many schools in Port Moresby and the Office of National Library and Archives.
There are three groups of contractors claiming settlement claims: the NCD 2007-2009 RESI (rehabilitation education sector infrastructure) outstanding; the national library and archives (2012) and the 2012 RESI. Spokesmen for the groups, who did not want to be named, claimed they had gone through right procedures, especially through the RESI program to build infrastructure.
FROM PAGE 1
POLICE who were called to the scene were also attacked by a crocodile, believed to be the leader of the pack.
Mr Pama fronted up at the Post-Courier office yesterday to tell of the villagers’ harrowing experience and the sudden fear spreading through the community of crocodiles taking over their river.
On Saturday, a mother had reported that her 18-year-old son may have been taken by a crocodile at Arakabauru
River. According to Mr Pama, the mother and son had gone to their riverside garden to harvest pineapple when he decided to go for a swim.
His mother heard him calling for help but did not take notice. It was when he did not return to the garden that the mother went to the river to check on him, only to find his shorts and shirt.
According to Mr Pama, the mother knew then that crocodiles, which frequented the rivers in the area, may have attacked his son.
She raised the alarm and Manetai villagers formed search parties and went looking for the youth the next day. Pama said in villagers located the body because a pack of crocodiles were fighting over it.
“The villagers were still watching when the big crocodile came and wrested the body from the smaller crocodiles. Then it stood on its tail and ripped the body into pieces, at the same time biting the body into pieces.
“Police were called to the area and, with weapons,
went on a boat but could not get a good shot at the creature as it chased them by splashing the water, causing a big wave that nearly overturned the boat with all the policemen.
“The police team along with the deceased teenager’s brother only managed to recover his head which the crocodile did not swallow.”
Villagers along that Arakabauru River said lives were now at risk because the huge crocodile was frequenting the area.
The contract disputes act imposes a six-year statute of limitations on all claims, whether they are asserted by the contractor or by the govt.
By JOE GURINA
MINISTER for Sports and Pacific Games Justin Tkatchenko has offered K10,000 reward for information on the people who defaced the swimming statuette at the roundabout at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.
He made the offer yesterday after graffiti was scrawled all over the sculpture, saying the money was worth expending to find the culprits and punish them.
The sports sculpture was one of three that had been erected at various locations in the city to remind residents to prepare for the Pacific Games, which
The bottom line
SOCIAL media has its downsides as a politician recently discovered. An unidentified person used his Facebook profile picture in a new account, infuriating Moresby Northwest MP Micheal Malabag.
DERANGED
THE MP laid a complaint with Facebook alleging impersonation. But not before lashing out, saying: “Must be a mentally deranged person who thinks he will get away with it. I have reported him”.
BELATED Happy 80th Birthday to former House of Assembly representative Graham Pople. The former MHA retired to Cairns after stints as a Port Moresby shop manager and running the Tufi Dive Resort.
FUNDRAISER
BEING a true gentleman and true to form, Mr Pople agreed to shave his head after a bubu was diagnosed with leukaemia and another agreeing to raise funds for the Foundation by shaving his head.
REWARD: Sports Minister has offered K10, 000 reward for information on people who defaced the swimming statuette.
NEW BILL: Upset Tkatchenko said he would introduce a Private Members Bill for laws against individuals who destroys public properties.
Port Moresby would host in July. The National Capital District Commission and the Sports Ministry had spent more than K200,000 to mount these sculptures with four more being prepared.
Sculpture is three-dimensional
An upset Mr Tkatchenko said he would introduce a Private Member’s Bill in Parliament in May for tough new laws against individuals who destroy public propertiy because current laws were ineffective.
Graffiti artists would be targeted in the new law, he said.
He said the proposed law would enforce mandatory jail sentences for offenders so that people would start to respect public property.
Mr Tkatchenko said he would consult with the NCDC law committee to support the proposed law because it would be policing and enforcing it when Parliament passes it and
it is gazetted. “Enough is enough; we have to get realistic now. People cannot go on with this animalistic attitude,” he said.
“The law has to get tough on people who think they are smart in destroying public property.
“People spend huge amounts of monies to put up these structures yet, at the end of the day, their hard work is wasted when they realise that there is graffiti, or damage done, on their properties.”
He said the law would also crack down on vandalism and help promote Governor Powes Parkop’s dream of making Port Moresby a clean, beautiful city.
THE PNG Power-focused State of Emergency comes to an end next week. Hopefully normal supply of electricity services will be restored? Residents are crying foul at long and continuous power cuts.
ANY truth in reports OK Tedi mine’s senior management didn’t know of Peter Graham’s appointment as CEO? The PM’s announcement at a business forum in Sydney caught many by surprise.
A LOT of activity in the coffee industry lately. Deals have been signed between local and Asian companies worth a lot of money. Hope those who do the audits are monitoring the transactions.
NO PAINT
CITY Hall will need to be one step ahead of vandals who get a kick out of spraying public property with graffiti. Impose a moratorium on the sale of spray paint in Port Moresby until after the Pacific Games.
PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg
PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has announced that the Government has approved K10 million in disaster relief funding for six provinces that have sustained extensive damage during recent extreme weather.
In making the announcement, Mr O’Neill said millions of people across Papua New Guinea had been affected and a number of lives lost due to this extreme weather.
“The extent of the damage in many areas of Papua New Guinea has never been seen before,” Mr O’Neil said.
“Following assessments from the National Disaster Centre, and in consultation with district and provincial officials, the National Government is providing K10 million in disaster assistance.
He said the money was being allocated to the six provinces of West New Britain, Jiwaka, Southern Highlands, Bougainville, Northern and Gulf.
“These funds are being transferred directly to the provincial governments for their allocation to affected districts.
“It is important that these districts contact their provincial administrations and
give the details of the assistance they require.”
Mr O’Neill said damage across these provinces has been extensive affecting vital services and people’s livelihoods.
“The major storm-related problems that have been identified have involved the destruction of essential infrastructure including roads, bridges and power lines. This has to be repaired promptly and services restored.
“There has also been substantial crop loss across the country. There are grassroots families who have lost their food and their income.
“Action is needed to ensure people have access to food and that lost crops can be reestablished in the shortest possible timeframe.”
The Prime Minister warned that the danger of further cyclone damage is not yet over in the current storm season and people in risk areas must prepare for the worst.
“Cyclone Nathan remains active in the Coral Sea and we cannot discount the chance of extreme weather impacting on Islands in Milne Bay or the coast of Central Province.
THE Government will provide relief funding of K5 million to Vanuatu and K1 million to Tuvalu devastated by tropical cyclone Pam.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill announced the package yesterday, saying a Papua New Guinea assessment team would leave for the affected areas to assess further requirements that could be provided.
“The scale of the devastation in the South Pacific is extreme and urgent help is needed to erect shelter, to restore essential services such as power and sanita-
tion and to reestablish supply lines to provide food,” Mr O’Neill said.
“In Vanuatu many lives have been lost and communities devastated by cyclone Pam as it swept through the region and we must help those who are in dire need.
“The Government of Papua New Guinea is committed to help people in our region to recover from this devastation.
“K5 million in immediate support will be provided to the Government of Vanuatu with a further K1 million provided to Tuvalu.
“Funding will be provided to Vanuatu and Tuvalu governments because as they know what they need at a local level and can arrange to have this delivered.
“The assessment team will be made up of officials from departments of Foreign Affairs and Health, the PNG Defence Force, Police and the National Disaster Management Office.
“Several other Pacific Island nations has also been affected by Cyclone Pam, including Kiribati, and Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea is reaching out
to these Governments to better understand their relief and recovery needs.”
Mr O’Neill said that the recent extreme weather had been alarming for people across the Pacific and highlighted the vulnerabilities of developing nation in the Pacific.
“We will work with Vanuatu, Tuvalu and other nations around the Pacific in restore cyclone-damaged areas, and to strengthen our defenses as we continue to be impacted by extreme weather,” the PNG Prime Minister said.
NATIONAL leaders from the Pacific region should establish an insurance cover against natural disasters as a relief for their countries, Opposition Leader Don Polye said yesterday.
He made the remark yes-
terday in light of the devastation caused by tropical cyclone Pam in Vanuatu and effects of the wet season in some parts of PNG where infrastructure, homes and lives were destroyed.
Mr Polye said the Pacific
leaders should push for this agenda with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
“The Opposition believes that the insurance cover is a way forward for us. Hence, it will become a relief for
small island economies in their recovery efforts after a natural disaster strikes a particular country,’’ he said.
Mr Polye said that as the former chairman of these international organisations
he had included this as one of his agendas discussed two years ago during the WB and IMF’s Asia-Pacific constituency meeting in Washington DC. He said both organisations took the agenda on board
saying they only indicated its validity with keen interest for its establishment.
Mr Polye also expressed condolences to the Government of Vanuatu and the families who lost loved ones in the disaster.
ONE school in Port Moresby was quick to respond to West New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel’s plea for help.
It took them two days to collect 12 bales of clothes and 12 cartons of assorted items and K2000 in cash to help people hit by ongoing adverse weather in West New Britain.
Kilakila Secondary School students came out in full force to donate so much for the distressed families of West New Britain after reading reports about assistance given to WNB for the disaster appeal.
They said they had always helped other schools in the past and wanted to help where they could.
Mr Muthuvel thanked the school’s deputy principal Saju Francis who had accompanied the students to make the donation.
EMERGENCY restoration
works in provinces affected by the recent severe wet weather has already commenced.
Works and Implementation
Minister Francis Awesa announced this yesterday at a media conference, assuring the provinces affected that the tireless effort of the provincial officers to collect data was successful in such a short time to come up with the emergency restoration plan and costing.
He said that work had begun on credit basis by engaging contractors and Works Department staff to
OPPOSITION Leader Don Polye expressed his condolence and sympathy to Vanuatu President Baldwin Londsdale on the lives lost and devastation caused by Cyclone Pam in Port Vila and other parts of his country.
Mr Polye said it was an untimely tragedy.
“At this juncture of sorrow and sadness, we grieve with the Vanuatu Government, its people and the immediate relatives who have lost their loved ones in the tragedy,” Mr Polye said.
He said God would help restore normalcy in the lives of the people of Vanuatu.
Mr Polye also said Papua New Guinea needs a regional policy which would set the framework for the government to look into the affairs of smaller Pacific island countries in assistance.
He said he had a proposed policy to cover the region.
“It would be inappropriate for PNG to sit with a ‘juvenile attitude’ and assist smaller island nations on an “ad hoc” basis as resources have to be spent properly based on a regional policy,”
Mr Polye said.
He said this was the time the PNG Government should assist smaller island nations like Vanuatu during emergency situations.
RESTORATION: Emergency restoration work on provinces affected by the recent severe wet weather has already commenced.
FUNDING: Despite efforts already made for the restoration works, funding allocation is the only factor that needs a quick response.
PRIORITY: Priority is to restore access through temporary bypass works and restore roads and bridge structures to a proper standing.
do recovery works in all affected sites.
“Despite efforts already made for the emergency restoration works throughout the country, funding allocation is the only factor that needs a quick response from the government through the
National Executive Council (NEC) for approval and endorsement,” Mr Awesa said.
He said natural disasters were becoming frequent and costly every year and emergency maintenance was no longer an option.
He called on landowners, commuters and the general public to understand that such disaster had never been experienced before, meaning that Works had encountered such emergencies but not all over the country as experienced this year.
“I assure you all that the Works staff are currently on site to coordinate, assess, organise, restore, recover and rectify the damages and open up access for traffic.
“Priority is to restore access through temporary by-pass and when this access is restored for both light and heavy traffic prior to commencing work on the permanency works of restoring
the roads and bridge structures to a proper standard,” he said.
Mr Awesa said all provincial works managers in the affected provinces had been authorised to proceed with temporary restoration under the Works arrangement with available contractors. In the meantime, temporary access on Yombi in Highlands, Magi and Hiritano Highways had been restored.
Mr Awesa had instructed all provincial works managers to be on standby and on preparedness mode at this time to attend to any emergencies in a pro-active manner.
He said the PNG military and police personnel should have a quick response approach with humanitarian aid.
Mr Polye noted that PNG’s relationships with smaller island countries had grown comprehensively and deepened recently.
“PNG requires an effective system of governance of the smaller island countries which would reflect socio-economic values,” he said.
“It would be important for PNG to demonstrate influence and make a difference within the region for the benefit of smaller island countries.”
In contemporary society it is an accepted doctrine that the press has a right and indeed a duty, to maintain its independence.
bottom line
THIRTY-per cent of the fight against tuberculosis lies with the health sector, which covers issues such as treatment, while the rest involves everyone.
Deputy health secretary Dr Paison Dakulala said this when welcoming Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), a new partner in the fight against TB, in the National Capital District.
He said the fight would be won if everyone is involved in it, from the Government right down to the grassroots.
MSF, a not-for-profit organisation, will be working with the National Department of Health, NCD Health Services and others who are involved
in the National TB program in the National Capital District. Doctors Without Borders first came into the country to work in Bougainville in 1990s, but has since moved to other parts of the country such as Lae and Tari, where it is working with issues of gender violence.
Last year it extended its presence to Kerema, Gulf
Province, to work on TB. Its global involvement with TB, however, extends 40 years and is the largest NGO tackling Drug Resistant TB which is now being reported in the country as well.
At a press conference yesterday, Benjamin Gaudi, Head of Missions for MSF, said they got involved in the TB fight in Kerema last year and are now moving into the nation’s capital Port Moresby.
The goal for MSF is to develop a model of care after five years which will be replicated and sustained in other parts of the country where the need exists.
Statistics show that 6000 cases of TB are being reported annually in NCD which accounts for 25 per cent of
the total TB burden in the country. NCD, Gulf, Central and Western Provinces are currently regarded as the hotspots for TB.
Yesterday’s press conference was also attended by National Capital District Health Advisor Dr Gary Ou’u who welcomed MSF in the fight.
Dr Dakulala likened the fight against TB in PNG to that of the World Wars in Gallipoli and along the Kokoda Trail as it is involving different organisations both in the country and overseas.
These includes the Global Fund, World Health Organisation, Faith Based Organisations, Burnett Institute and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
THE widow of a prominent national leader has expressed disgust over the manner in which security guards at the Port Moresby General Hospital treat people.
She said this was a Melanesian country where people come from close-knit families and when one was sick, others wanted to help take care of him or her.
“As Papua New Guineans we come from communities where when one is sick we give support to one another,”’ she said.
“This is not a private hospi-
tal; it is a public hospital and when Papua New Guineans come to visit their loved ones, the security guards must treat them with respect.’’
The widow, who wished to remain anonymous, had raised concerns following the way security guards manhandled a Post-Courier photographer as well as the way they had treated people who were trying to go into the hospital. This had happened after 10 am. She had gone earlier to visit her grandchild who had been admitted at the hospital. The child and her parents were in Port Moresby for the first time.
She watched security guards screen people going into the hospital and did not like what she saw.
“I came around 8.30am and I’ve witnessed how people were turned away, and even told to go back or wait until midday. There are some people who come as far away as Gerehu. The visitors come to boost the morale of the patients.’’
She said she appreciates the work of the security guards, but every decision that is being made about who should go into the hospital must be done in consideration of a total picture of the situation.
“This is not a communist
or a socialist country where there is a lot of restrictions,’’ she said.
The newspaper photographer who was harassed had taken pictures as a journalist was being dropped off to see a doctor at a consultation clinic.
The security guard jumped into the vehicle and pulled the camera off the photographer.
The camera was eventually returned and the hospital chief executive officer Grant Muddle said media personnel should ask for permission to take pictures within the hospital grounds.
THE EVANGELICAL Lutheran Church of PNG (ELC-PNG) has refuted claims of ever receiving funds totalling about K20 million from both the national and provincial governments to establish its university.
ELC-PNG Council members however, told the Post-Courier there were no records in their
accounts division of these funds going into the church’s account.
A press release from ELCPNG Council executives revealed that funds were diverted to a group other than the council itself and this has caused great disappointment in the church. “We are not sure how and when these
funds were put into ELC_
PNG’s account because as far as our records show, there hasn’t been any funding given to us,” the council said.
“They observed that public funds amounting to K22 million have been given to the committee of the 2006 University Act on the understanding (or assumption)
that it supports the education ministries of the Lutheran church,” the council added. It was also stated that the council would work alongside stakeholders and other affected parties to have the issue resolved immediately.
The council suggested that a separate investigation be carried out into the funds.
The fight would be won if everyone is involved in it
...PAISON DAKULALA Port Moresby FROM left: MSF medical coordinator Dr Shahidul Islam, NCD health services adviser Dr Gary Ou’u and MSF head of missions Benjamin Gauin.
PORT MORESBY Nature Park’s Nature’s Café, has once again launched its popular coffee loyalty card to help reward their customers. Nature’s Café was opened by NCD Governor Powes Parkop in 2013. Only six months before turning two years old, Nature’s Café has become a popular choice for people to meet and enjoy a coffee, sitting on the deck overlooking the tropical rainforest of the park. Apart from wonderful coffee and cakes, it also serves a variety of tasty quick meals including pizza, hamburgers, hot chips and healthy options including salads and sandwiches. Port Moresby Nature Park’s general manager Michelle McGeorge said: “This card is our small way of thanking those that come and support our work by using our Café.” Pictured is Nature’s Café, Port Moresby Nature Park’s on-site café.
THE GOVERNMENT is envisioning to create more than 450,000 SMEs by 2050 through the Small-Medium Enterprise (SME) Corporation Act.
Since the Prime Minister of the day is legislated to head the SME Council, comprising of high profile ministers and bureaucrats, it’s certain to be sure that the country is anticipated to produce more than half a million millionaires, should the 450,000 SMEs portfolio and annual turnover projected figures come into the millions.
Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru yesterday outlined the Government’s vision.
“In the next 50 years from 2015 to 2065, we (Government) are looking at growing 450,000 to 500,000 SMEs. If countries like
Ben Micah has made it clear that the Ombudsman Commission has a place in this system of governance.
Mr Micah called a media conference yesterday on his referral, saying the Ombudsman Commission as the watchdog of the Leadership Code had all the right under its constitutional requirements to refer leaders. He wanted the commission to be fair when dealing with all leaders covered under the Leadership Code.
“I happen to fall into that category and they happen to do their job based on certain investigations and findings they have made, they have discharged that constitutional responsibility to refer me so I will not question their constitutional role, neither will I question the manner in which they go about doing their work. I think
this organisation has a place in our system of governance and it’s doing its job. I do not have an issue with that, therefore I am here to say that I am not going to run away.
“I just want to say that I was out of the country when I was informed through the media that I have been referred, even though I am aware from meetings and correspondence that has been going on between myself, my office and the Ombudsman Commission since July last year that there were issues relating to certain decisions and actions that I have taken that were under scrutiny of the Ombudsman Commission.
“I am prepared to go all the way to defend my integrity and reputation. That is something that you don’t buy off a shelf in a store. It is not something you borrow from anyone. It is something that is identified with you as a person, your character.”
Malaysia can have 500,000 SMEs, why not Papua New Guinea,”
Mr Maru challenged.
He also said PNG has failed its people over the last 40 years in failing to create millionaires.
“We have lost as a country; I have no regret to admit that 90 per cent of SMEs in the country is controlled by foreigners, while Papua New Guineans are left to fend for themselves on the street selling buai,” he said.
“We can’t sell buai all the time and become spectators on our own land. We must have dignified businesses. Selling of buai and being spectators on our own land now can’t happen under my eyes.”
According to the SME Corporation Act, the half a million SMEs would, if they (SMEs) have an annual turn over of a minimum of K10 million, create millionaires for the country.
The former managing director of National Development Bank (NDB) and MP for YanguruSausia indicated that under the new SME Corporation Act, which is ready to be passed by Parliament in the May sitting, Papua New Guineans will be able to take over all reserved businesses now being overtaken by foreigners, such as fast food marts, fuel stations, retail shops and others.
He said under the stret pasin stoa scheme, Papua new Guineans, through the SME sector, will be able to also buy back all the shops owned and operated by foreigners.
He also disclosed that the National Development Bank will remain as creditor or financier to the SMEs to enable the Government target of reaching half a million SMEs.
THE SUBMISSION on the verdict for Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Boka Kondra at the leadership tribunal in Port Moresby has been deferred to April 1.
The deferral was to give time to Kondra’s lawyer, Ian Molloy, to prepare his submissions in response to the Public Prosecutor’s.
Yesterday Mr Molloy told the tribunal members that he was not given enough time to view the submission by the Public Prosecutor containing the reasons and supporting documents on why and how Kondra should be punished.
The tribunal then allowed for the extension of time so that Mr Molloy could go through the documents and make proper submissions in response.
Meanwhile, the tribunal hearing for Manus MP Ronny Knight is expected to resume on Friday.
HEARINGS: Minister Kondra’s has been deferred to April 1, while Manus MP Ronnie Knight’s is expected to resume on Friday.
STUDENTS at the Madang Teachers College at the outskirts of Madang town were victims of a burnt down staff building and two lecture rooms in the same block.
The building housed three staff offices, the accounts office and the student services office.
The fire started in the early hours of the morning around 3am and is said to have been started by intruders, since some of the lecturers offices were broken into and computers and printers stolen.
Despite that, classes at the school resumed as normal and investigations into the incident are being undertaken by police criminal investigation divison (CID).
Some lecturers had their teaching plans, course books and materials burnt, while others were stolen from other lecturers’ offices.
Since those buildings are very important for the school new administration and lecture rooms will soon be set up.
An update of the incident will be reported as the story develops with investigations from CID and the reports from the administration.
THE duties and functions of the Public Prosecutor’s Office are not affected in any way by complaints of leaders against the Ombudsman Commission on their referrals.
This statement was made by Public Prosecutor Pondros Kaluwin following the recent series of referrals of several politicians by the commission to his office.
Mr Kaluwin told the Post-Courier yesterday that he was there to analyse files submitted by the commission and if there was sufficient evidence, he notifies the Chief Justice to set a date for a tribunal hearing.
He however, indicated that evidence must be good and have enough weight for him to notify the Chief Justice that the allegations warrant
Our functions are independent from the Commission ...
PONDROS KALUWIN Public Prosecutor
a tribunal hearing.
“Our functions are independent from the Ombudsman Commission,” he said.
Mr Kaluwin also said some matters referred to him were trivial in nature and could have been dealt with through other avenues.
He said the referrals made to him needed proper analysis as to the contents of the allegations.
AN ELECTION petition case against National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop is set to proceed in the Supreme Court this month.
The petition, filed by petitioner Michael Kandiu, is expected to go before a three-man Supreme Court bench on March 30.
The directions were issued on Monday by recently appointed Australian judge, Justice Terence Higgins at the Waigani Supreme Court. This came after a bid by
Governor Parkop to dismiss the entire election petition through an objection to competency application was refused last week.
Petitioner Mr Kandiu had filed the petition raising 36 grounds of alleged bribery, undue influence, and illegal practice amounting to errors and omissions on the part of Mr Parkop during the 2012 National Election for the NCD regional seat.
Mr Kandiu is seeking to declare Mr Parkop’s election null and void on those grounds and for a by-election of the NCD regional seat.
THE PUBLIC Prosecutor has written to the Chief Justice to appoint a tribunal to enquire into allegations of misconduct against Imbonggu MP and Works Minister Francis Awesa.
Mr Awesa was referred to the office of the Public Prosecutor by the Ombudsman Commission in November last year on allegations of misconduct in office.
Public Prosecutor Pondros Kaluwin said in a statement that he has pursued the file of Mr Awesa and was satisfied that there was sufficient, cogent and credible evidence and further referred the matter to Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia to appoint an appropriate leadership tribunal to hear the allegations. The allegations against Mr Awesa being that the leader unlawfully engrossed a public easement for personal use and in the process denied the public right of access to
the easement, causing disharmony and difficulty. He was therefore found to have failed in upholding his duties and responsibilities of office as a leader as required under Section 27 of the Constitution and the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership.
Mr Awesa is among a list of MPs and Ministers referred so far by the Ombudsman Commission to the office of the Public Prosecutor on various allegations of misconduct. About eight leaders have been referred so far since early last year and this year. They include Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Tourism Minister and North Fly MP Boga Kondra, Community Development Minister and Sohe MP Delilah Gore, Manus MP Ronny Knight, Kagua-Erave MP James Lagea, Public Enterprise Minister and Kavieng MP Ben Micah, Public Service Minister and Abau MP Sir Puka Temu and Mr Awesa.
BOGIA MP John Hickey has refuted reports yesterday that he did not appear on Monday at the Waigani Committal Court resulting in his case being adjourned. A fuming Hickey, backed by his lawyer and National Alliance Party secretary Joyce Grant, said yesterday that he and his lawyer were present at the Waigani Committal Court on Monday waiting for mention and later the case was adjourned because it was not listed. Hickey said yesterday that he was 90 seconds away from the court house when he was advised the case was adjourned because it was not listed.
“My lawyers were there… I was available, I was waiting, in fact I was 90 seconds away from the court house… the police didn’t show up, the case wasn’t listed. It wasn’t listed yesterday and the police hadn’t paid the fine at Vulupindi Haus when the case was scheduled,” he said.
Police fraud squad prosecutor Michael Awagl had told the courts that Hickey was informed that his first appearance in court would be Monday. Mr Awagl said he was the first prosecutor to be at the court house and the last to leave, and neither Hickey nor his lawyers showed face.
It makes one sad to read about massive destruction caused by a tropical cyclone on March 14, 2015, at Vanuatu. The world-community should come to the aid of the affected people there. A Vedic astrology writer had, on June 2, 2014, predicted that countries or regions whose name begin with letter “V” , besides some others, could likely be hit by tsunamis after October 2014 going to 2015 and mid 2016. It seems the prediction, though made in a public domain, did not come to the notice of concerned people who would’ve taken advanced safety measures. However, the master predictions can be visited in the article “Stressful times ahead for world economy in 2015 and 2016”. It was published on June 2, 2014, at www.astrologyweekly. com
Astrologer
I don’t really agree with how we welcome visitors in Port Moresby. Every time we have some important events or visitors from outside, we pretend to clean up our streets and cover up our filthiness with beautification for them to see. And once they leave, everything goes back to normal. This doesn’t make sense at all. Why hide our rubbish and crimes? Please let’s stop pretending.
True PNG
Whenever I go shopping, I refuse the plastic bags offered by shop assistants. Instead, I use my own reusable shopping bags. Plastic bags litter throughout PNG are polluting our country. Heavy rains wash plastics into the sea where marine lives are put at severe risk. Many countries have banned plastic shopping bags because of the problems they cause. Shoppers, please say no to plastic bags. Instead, use your own bilums and baskets or reusable bags to take your goods home.
Jack RoweIF YOU wish to assist with flood relief for the people of West New Britain, contact Maryanne or Tana from Governor’s office on 9835015/9835016.
I AM writing in response to a number of inaccuracies published in an article in Post-Courier on March 17, 2015, relating to the proposed P’nyang gas field development.
Assessments of the P’nyang field have been ongoing for some time. Full scale social mapping landowner identification (SMLI) studies began in 2013 and were submitted to the Department of Petroleum and Energy in November 2014 – prior to the signing of the memorandum of understanding in January 2015.
SMLI studies were field based, visiting true, resident landowners in their villages.
We understand that the Department of Petroleum and Energy
(DPE) is preparing for further engagements with landowners in the project area as provided for in the Oil & Gas Act.
ExxonMobil is a signatory to many initiatives, and our approach around the world – including here in Papua New Guinea – is consistent with the principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 169 concerning indigenous and tribal peoples in independent countries, the United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) performance standards on environmental and social sustainability, and the World Bank operational policy and bank procedure on
indigenous peoples.
We believe that the laws and regulatory processes of the Government of PNG also embrace these principles.
There is still a lot of work to be done before a decision to proceed with development can be made. This includes the award of a Petroleum Development Licence and appraisal drilling.
Anne Rix Media and communications manager ExxonMobil PNG LtdTRANSPARENCY International
PNG (TIPNG) and foreign development institutions’ continuous ridicule of PNG is causing more harm than good.
Their opinions are based on summaries they themselves instituted. Their “polls/studies” must be scrutinised thoroughly to substantiate its validity. Their silence on corporate corruption, which directly fuels governance corruption, is strange. A Commission of Inquiry must be set up to investigate these institutions. Must I remind these foreign institutions that PNG was lured into adopting a governing structure developed for barons and kings whose core fundamentals were to protect their reign and hold onto power? Their subjects were heavily taxed (land and harvest taxes in those days) so that they could live luxurious and pompous lifestyles. Aren’t these institutions their masters’ servants? The instruments may vary in form but the fundamentals still remain.
Thirty-nine years on PNG is still governed by that system. We have the governance system (king) and corporations (barons) dictating our every national development policies and strategies. They bombard us with policies and reforms they claim is necessary for growth and prosperity.
The system sets up civil societies and premeditated programs to exert control and influence over us.
It bankrolls its crusade by coercing and seducing us with promises of improved living conditions while it rapes and pillages our lands and seas.
As if that is not enough, it heavily taxes our small harvests, leaving us scraps to squabble over.
Where does that leave PNG 39 years on? PNG and its citizens continue to slave and struggle against the tyranny of the governance system it foolishly adopted.
Now I ask TIPNG, did PNG choose to be “worst corrupt” as you described it? How many systematic frauds, and there are many, have you and company singled out or you prefer your attacks on the victims? Wouldn’t you
agree with me that the governance system promotes and protects systematic corruption just like it was created to do? And the system has failed the country?
And to the so-called development partners, does PNG have to borrow more from you to improve its worst health indicators as you claimed? How many development loans to PNG have you written off as contributions to humanity and betterment of PNG?
Enough is enough. PNG must break the shackles off this form of slavery. We must eradicate all form of colonisation, industrial, political or otherwise. PNG must start looking at developing a governance system that embraces its 800-plus cultures under a common denominator. A governance system that makes the citizens kings and barons in their own land. It is time PNG stands shoulder to shoulder with its Melanesian brother Fiji and remove all trace of the union jack from its flag. God bless my home.
Douglas Bryan Barara Port MoresbyIT IS indeed a very emotional, heart wrenching time for our Melanesian brother nation, Vanuatu.
PNG has a long precious history with Vanuatu since the early 1980s when our government sent out the military to help put down the then “Jimmy Stevens uprising”. Likewise, Vanuatu treasures PNG’s support as the big Pacific brother. In that regard, can PNG not waste time in sending its own assistance package? Though PNG has its own domestic wet weather destructions in certain areas of the highlands as well as down on the coastal areas, it is now an opportune time to help Vanuatu.
It is not welcoming to see our
government talking about rising issues using a regional approach to natural disasters, which will be discussed during the Pacific Island Forum in Port Moresby in July. What help does PNG give Vanuatu during this time of heavy loss?
PNG was accused by Fiji about two years ago for “cheque book diplomacy”. The message behind the accusation signals that PNG spends money for gain. This was during the appointment of Dame Meg Taylor as the Secretary General of the Pacific Island Forum. We do not want another accusation of that sort.
PNG government should be practical by urgently putting up an as-
The report in Monday’s (16/03/15)
Post-Courier on the suspension of the EHP provincial administrator brings much frustration. I am not supporting any of the parties involved. I only wish to point out that the ordinary citizens of this once thriving, prosperous and vibrant province are now suffering as a result of self-serving, selfish, uncaring and narrow-minded individuals. I believe the deterioration of one of the best regional referral hospitals in the highlands region is testament to the ongoing power struggle Eastern Highlanders have been forced to witness. Now it continues with the PEC suspending the PA. I believe all these behaviour border on criminality because people are dying, children are suffering, businesses are collapsing, infrastructure is deteriorating and our leaders continue to play politics. Any sane person in their right mind would see that this is not right, unethical and not in the best interest of the province. The question is, can and will our leaders and senior bureaucrats open their eyes to reality and common sense?
sistance package to help Vanuatu as our government has a lot of money. This is also to show small Pacific island nations that we are capable of handling big events during good and bad times.
Australia and New Zealand have always been at the forefront in such natural disasters at very short notices. Why is our country, who is a “big brother”, still lagging behind? We have been independent for 40 years! Pacific games is just around the corner so do it right PNG.
Masen Iningi Via emailEastern Highlanders have suffered long and hard. Our leaders should be aware that this recent move may well be the proverbial “straw that breaks the camel’s back”. I will not be surprised to see major protests on the streets of Goroka, not in support of either parties, but for our very own survival. God bless EHP.
Havini ViraI would like to comment on “Dad gets nine years in jail for incest”
Post-Courier March 16th, 2015. As a concerned father, I was angry when I read this article of a father forcefully having sex with his own daughters. Exposing his private parts to his own daughters is madness and inhumane. Such an act must be condemned in the strongest terms.
The accused, William Lakuna, can expose his private parts to his wife, not his daughters. There have been continuous reports of fathers or men from East New Britain having sex with their own daughters and nieces. I just want to ask the good people of ENBP, is this your custom? At one time Sir Paulias Matane asked what was wrong with ENBP because there had been so many reports of fathers having sex with their blood daughters. These kind of fathers should be castrated and thrown into prison for life. They have no place in our societies. I beg the courts to hang these culprits upside down for the world to see. What a shame!
Saykongs WabagPort Moresby’s building boom started way back in 2009 and people have erected buildings and fences like bushfire to tap on the demand. This happened along freeways and main streets where one can drive and notice easily. The bricks, trim deck sheeting and razor wire fencings were happening right at the streets where Powes Parkop, Lesley Alu and Honk Kiap live. Have they just woken up from a long sleep? I own a four-unit property in the city and to guarantee the safety of my property and my tenants, I have to put up a nice fence with bricks, trim deck sheeting with razor wire on top. It cost me K30,000 together with labour. The scholarships, part time jobs, State of Origin shows, Easter and Christmas are of no interest to criminals. These programs will be of interest to full-time students and law abiding citizens. Petty crimes still happen around the area where these programs are held. Criminals have their own interest and obsession. Please come up with a win-win solution for both NCDC, property owners and general public.
Permanent Resident
Mr Lua’s statement casts serious doubts statement casts about the integrity and independence of about the and of the Commission and he should state the the and he should ... state the names of the people who are putting pressure names of the people who are pressure on the Commission to investigate leaders. on the Commission to leaders.
Smaller families will be the norm for Morobe Province, thanks to the launching of the population plan. March 1, 2005
years ago
A BUILDING contractor in Madang Province is appealing to any interested individual or business houses to assist a rural school complete an unfinished classroom which will become a place of learning for about 100 students next year.
Neycomb Works
Construction director Junior Bito Malawae called
into the Post-Courier office yesterday and shared his grievances of students attending the Panim Adventist Primary School in Madang being without properly maintained classrooms for decades.
He said the school was built in the 1950s with classrooms only catering for about 300 students.
Today, with the ever growing enrolment every year,
the school has been facing shortage of classrooms, resource centres, laboratories and other necessary learning facilities.
Mr Malawae said with the school’s plan to develop into a secondary school in three years time, his company is seeking about K6 million to build classrooms, five teacher houses, fencing and electricity plus two dormitories, one each for male
and female students. He said his construction company has begun work on the construction of a double-storey building containing six classrooms and three teachers offices but had to stop in September last year because of insufficient funds to pay for labour and other recurring expenses. The building is 36,200m long and 8000m wide. It will
contain six classrooms, a library, tools room, computer and science labs and three teachers offices.
Mr Malawae said he has given submissions to a number of business houses and politicians, including State Enterprises and State Investment Minister Ben Micah, but is yet to hear a response from them.
A submission was also made and sent to Madang
MP and Petroleum and Energy Minister Nixon Duban to assist the school.
‘‘The project is a big one which cannot go undone. The school will see more student enrolment next year and in the years to come when it includes grades 9 and 10.
‘‘Therefore, construction of vital infrastructures must begin now for the benefit of students,” he said.
THE roles and responsibilities of the new statutory body, the district development authority, are being discussed in Southern Highlands Province this week.
Provincial and Local Government Affairs Department Secretary Munare Uyassi on Monday said that consultations were been held right around the country to create awareness about the authority.
He made this known in his opening remarks at the Southern Highlands consultation for provincial administration, district administrations and local level government presidents on Monday at the Agiru Conference Centre, Mendi.
Mr Uyassi said the District Development Authority Act had already been passed and came into effect on January 1.
“We are here to explain what the DDA is, what its intentions are, clarifying the relationship the provincial government should have with the districts and LLGs in light of the DDA as well as to consult on what the ‘determinations’ would contain,” he said.
Mr Uyassi said the determinations would define the roles and responsibilities to be performed by the districts once agreed to in consultation with the provincial government and local level government.
“This will then be submitted to the Minister for Inter-government Relations to be endorsed and gazetted as the determination for each district,” he added.
He said the consultation was to ensure that key agencies were supporting the DDA implementation.
WELFARE officers are not following up on the cases relating to orphans or abused children who seek refuge at what is commonly known as “out of home care” centres in the country.
Lae City Mission executive Rammie Auwa said during an interview with Post-Courier in which he also revealed a few surprising facts in relation to stray children living off the streets.
“We often have cases here in Morobe Province where welfare officers often bring in children to our care centres to stay for a little while until their cases are sorted out.
“But in most cases, these children continue to live with us longer than expected, and we continue to shelter them and attend to their other needs as well,” he said. According to Mr Auwa, three to four children are brought to their care centre every month and the number continues to rise every year.
In addition to the issue most of the children not returning to their relatives, and are either illiterate or semi-literate. Street children in Lae have little or no to access education. For some children Grade 3 level is the highest level for them.
BY DONALD WILLIE
A FORCED eviction by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) has provoked retaliation by residents of a land outside of the airport perimeters, leaving a couple of security guards wounded.
Previous assistance request for eviction by the NAC had been denied by senior police officers, when land owners fronted up with documents stating that the subjected piece of land, known as Saraga Ima, described as portion 1229, Milinch of Granville, does not belong to NAC.
In the request letter from NAC to the police, dated 28th January 2015, NAC claimed that the land in subject was obtained by John Kaupa, through fraudulent arrangement with a former owner, namely Eliab Tokana, of Dubara Idibana Hohodae at Hanuabada, which eventually led to an eviction being effected by police on 30 January.
However, Mr Tokana and Mr Kaupa had court documents proving the ownership of the customary land.
Mr Tokana confirmed that the arrangements between himself and Mr Kaupa were not fraudulent.
Other copies of court documents showed that the matter had been taken to court earlier but thrown out due to lack of evidence.
Upon presentation of these documents, the police immediately
LEADERS are reminded to fulfil the constitutional provisions and guidelines which give effect to specific public policy implementation.
This was the reminder from Hortence Tanei of the Widows and Orphans Association Incorporation of Siara village assembly (VA) in the Selau constituency of North Bougainville, representing the interest of the women.
Ms Tanei said it was a sorry state of affair when widows and orphans are trying to make ends meet and yet the responsible leaders turn a blind eye on these unfortunate and under privileged group of people.
“The North Bougainville women member in the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Elizabeth Burain must inform us if her office has released any financial grant to the Selau Women Federation branch
during her term in office from 2010 to 2015,” said Ms Tanei.
The same call was also directed to the Member for Selau constituency, Terry Mose to find out if he has given any financial grants to such organisations since he was elected into office the women’s group has not seen any tangible development.
Ms Tanei said it is of common knowledge and understanding that these members are allocated their constitutional support grant every year for the five year term in office.
“Our constituency member must inform the voters on how these budgeted monies have been spent over the last four years and expressed concern that Section 20 of the Bougainville constitution states that the welfare of widows, children, orphans, the aged and the disabled must be encouraged in accordance with customary practices,” Ms Tanei said.
WOMEN still lack basic business literacy and this is hindering equal participation at the economic level, executive director of the Business Council of PNG Douveri Henao said.
He was one of the panellists of the 2015 PNG Women’s Forum last week in Port Moresby.
And vice-president of the PNG Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Janet Sios, who was also a panellist, said that although PNG had been a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) since 1993, women had not been benefiting fully from this participation.
Women in business and partic-
ipating in business and partnership and how APEC could increase access to markets for women was a discussion topic at the forum.
“It is not just about getting an education or a masters or PhD in business but rather about the basic skills needed in knowing where, when and how to market your product,” Mr Henao said.
“One can only get optimum value for your investment, time and product if you have the financial literacy skills. Once you know where the demand is and how to market your product best, that is the way forward.”
Mr Henao said that more women, both in the rural and urban areas, needed to have these skills training facilitated by stakeholders.
ISSUE: NAC claimed that the piece of land known as Saraga Ima was obtained by John Kaupa, through fraudulent arrangement with a former owner, namely Eliab Tokana.
OWNERSHIP: Mr Tokana and Mr Kaupa had court documents proving the ownership of the customary land the arrangement between them was not fraudulent.
EVICTION: Police refrained from the eviction ordering a stay of eviction on John Kaupa and his family and supporters.
refrained from the eviction, ordering a stay of eviction on John Kaupa and his family and supporters.
According to Mr Kaupa, NAC had forcefully moved in on Monday after hours, to remove the fencing they had erected under the watchful eyes of some police personnel, despite previous order to all units by police hierarchy to not interfere with Mr Kaupa until NAC could provide Court Orders from the national court.
This had provoked the settlers to retaliate, injuring security guards who were guarding the premises.
Mr Kaupa says he will take the matter up to court for damages and inconvenience incurred upon him.
IN accordance with ensuring that public funds were properly used to rebuild the iconic Koki market, Minister for Planning Charles Abel and Secretary for Planning Hakawa Harry were taken on a tour of the market by Moresby South Justin MP Tkatchenko.
Not having seen the K16 million market after it was rebuilt; Mr Abel was pleased with the current look of the oldest market in the city.
Mr Tkatchenko told Mr Abel and Ms Harry that there were 400 sellers from the Moresby South electorate who frequented the market.
“Each seller pays a K2 market fee and is allowed to enter and sell their goods,” Mr Tkatchenko said.
“The sellers will decide where they will sit, which is not a problem, and the central vendors have their own allocated shelter while the other sellers from the Highlands, Islands, and Momase regions have their own shelters.
“All funds used to build the market, TVET training centre, and other facilities in the market came from the DSIP funds.”
The proposed fish market will soon be completed.
The fish market will be used to sell and buy seafood and will see sellers coming from as far as the Fisherman Island and other Motu Koitabu villagers.
MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and Immigration Rimbink Pato was in Morocco for “a greater insight to development processes in Africa that could be applied in Papua New Guinea and around the Pacific”.
Attending the Crans Montana Forum and South-South Cooperation meeting in the northern African kingdom, Mr Pato said globalisation had brought most developing economies many similar challenges.
“Papua New Guinea shares some common development dilemmas with countries like Africa and the Caribbean,” he said.
“This forum will provide an opportunity to learn best practices on how these challenges to development can be addressed.
“This includes strengthening areas such as resource management, food security, fisheries, tourism and infrastructure that carry challenges for developing countries around the world.
“Matters that underpin stable economies including political stability, peace, security, human rights and gender equality are also on the agenda.”
Mr Pato said PNG had set an example for many developing economies, particularly in areas such as ensuring political stabil-
PEOPLE living with disabilities have been told not to hide away in their comfort zones anymore and be invisible to the world.
Disability advocate and wheelchairbound founder of Kapi Foundation, Brown Kapi, said providing a link between people with disabilities and the institutions, government and the rest of PNG was an ongoing job of his foundation.
“When it comes to inclusive employment, education and these kinds of opportunities you will be ready to receive these services from your government,” he said.
Mr Kapi recently visited the Kila police barracks, home of the police band, for the first time and met 14 disabled people with words of encouragement and challenge.
“I am here to show you that you have a place in this society. Though you may think you do not have value but I am here to tell you that you are not forgotten,” Mr Kapi told them.
Fourteen-year-old Ranu Bobby, of Hanuabada, who has a brain disorder and could not walk or speak, was particularly excited and could not help but squeal and clap animatedly, putting everyone in high spirits.
Mr Kapi encouraged the people to start a self help group and organise themselves so that they would attract attention from the government and donors to enhance their lives.
OCCASION: Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Rimbink Pato is in Morocco to attend the Crans Montana Forum and the South-South Cooperation meeting.
SIMILARITIES: PNG shares some common dilemmas with countries of Africa and the Carribean. This forum will provide opportunities to learn practises on how to address developments and changes brought by globalisation.
ity, infrastructure development and strengthening the resources sector.
“I am sharing our development experience, but also looking at how other countries have dealt with challenges in sectors like agriculture, or social issues including gender equality,” he said.
“These are issues where there is no single approach, but requires learning between communities.”
He said developing countries could learn from each other and adapt programs to suit local conditions.
Mr Pato said he would report back to NEC with recommendations and observations that were relevant to the country.
INCREASING the wild stocks of Barramundi in their natural habitat is the prime focus for the aquaculture hatchery project in Daru for 2015.
Formerly known as the Western Province sustainable aquaculture project under the umbrella of the PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd, the project is now being managed by Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) and making improved progress with the largest ever crop of barramundi fingerlings spawned and currently in production.
Daru hatchery supervisor and technical expert
Efran Adie and pontoon superviser Jason Tigaru, with the assistance of 10 staff, began 2015 with another successful spawning on January 7.
An estimated total of 35,000 healthy, fast growing fingerlings, ranging in size from 20 to 60milimetres (mm) are now ready for sale and
distribution for either re-stocking or farming purposes.
Mr Adie explained that once a graded fingerling reaches 50mm, it is ready to be released into its natural habitat to feed off natural food sources to then grow into adult fish.
“This is the biggest crop of fingerlings since the (aquaculture) project began under the PNGSDP.
We are very happy that Mr Middleton and OTDF have stepped in and supported us to achieve this.
With sales confirmed we are already planning for spawning another crop of fish late next month,” he said.
He said 10,000 fingerlings from this crop have been purchased by the National Fisheries Authority and will be flown to Port Moresby to stock the Sirinumu Dam.
The majority of the remaining fingerlings will be released into the Lake Murray habitat.
THE National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) is on course in its drive to establish its core roles and functions throughout the country.
Acting director general Norit Luio said this at NYDA’s last leg of regional consultation workshop last Tuesday in Alotau.
The heavy rainfall throughout the Southern region did not deter the three-day meeting which was attended by regional representatives.
Mr Luio led the NYDA team comprising senior officers from the Department of Prime Minister, Office of Community Development, and Solicitor-General’s Office.
“Our goals and functions are aligned with the Alotau Accord that was developed during the formation of the O’Neill-Dion Government in 2012,” Mr Luio said.
“And Prime Minister Peter O’Neill stated that half the population of PNG aged 20, or younger, presented enormous opportunities and challenges where governments needed to be more proactive in looking at ways to empower people.”
Mr Luio said the problem with youths in the country was due to lack of education opportunities, or skills training, which has forced them into illicit activities.
“It is also a growing concern where our young people lack knowledge in
health and are vulnerable to epidemic diseases such as HIV/AIDS,” he said.
Mr Luio said the lack of readily available programs that could absorb the increasing number of school dropouts annually was not sufficient to cater for the growing numbers of dropouts.
“In a research study by the Education Department, it was found that out of 17,000 students leaving grade 10 and 12 in a year, only 3000 continued to colleges and universities, including other tertiary institutions,” Mr Luio said.
He said the cost of this to the country is significant, due to the high statistics of incidents involving social disorder in our society that involved youths.
“There is a high unproductivity rate because our educational system discarded them, and we cannot pretend to overlook this issue but address it immediately,” he said.
“It is a fact that the future of every society revolves around young people, however if statistics shows an alarming trend in the making, then we need to establish and build a collaborative, and assertive effort with our key partners in the provinces, in addressing the concerns we have in society.”
He said the NYDA and its partners would do what they can to help.
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PEOPLE in Hela Province should by now be enjoying the proceeds of the multibillion PNG LNG project and not in the courts fighting for funds that they were supposed to receive in the beginning.
This concern was raised by a Hela man Stanely Arako.
HUNDREDS of people fl ocked to the Kondon Agaundo building in Kundiawa on Tuesday to witness the launch of the provincial public complaints of fi ce by Chief Ombudsman Commissioner Rigo Lua. The of fi ce would collate complaints from the Chimbu people on matters regarding public service, expenditure of public funds and the performance of mandated leaders. Also present at the ceremony were Chuave MP Wera Mori, deputy governor James Kendiyagl, provincial administrator Joe Kunda and his deputy Alphonse Kee. Pictue: MICHAEL KOMA
A WEB designer has been invited to receive the International Arch of Europe (IAE) Award in Frankfurt, Germany, but is in need of financial support to travel.
Mr Moses Map of Mercy Computer Services was invited by the Business Initiative Directions to receive the award on behalf of the company. The event will take place on April 25 this year.
Mr Map from Poroma, Southern Highlands Province, said his company was recently established but has been selected due to the quality of its products.
Mercy Computer Services specialises in web designing. Mr Map said since the company was newly established he could not afford to pay for the travel cost for himself and a colleague. He urged politicians and other capable people for financial assistance. “It would also be an opportunity to establish networks and to put PNG on the map in terms of quality web designs by a local SME,” Mr Map said. He added that IAE award was never attained by any other Papua New Guinean SME apart from Nasfund which had received an award in a different category some years back.
TWO warring tribes who have been at war with each other in Anditale area of the Kompiam-Ambum district have finally observed a truce by accepting a preventative order issued by the provincial police commander and officers of the Enga provincial law and order office.
This was achieved last week after several weeks of intense negotiations by police and Law and order officials between the two tribes, the Akol and the Erap tribe of Anditale in the Ambum sub district.
The two tribes have a traditional history of fighting each other in previous battles.
In this instance,the two tribes have been fighting each other causing disruption to services to the Anditale station; especially the Anditale High School.
Several houses and food crops have been destroyed and seven men have been killed in the conflict so far.
The fighting between the two tribes erupted early January this year when a man from the Erap tribe hacked to death a man from
the Akol tribe. The Akol tribesmen reported the matter to police and demanded the suspect to surrender.
Enga provincial police commander George Kakas on numerous occasions sent his men to demand the suspects surrender but he never surrendered.
Seeing that their demand was not met, the Akol tribesmen decided to take matters into their own hands by attacking and killing five Erap tribesmen and chasing them out of their land and occupying it.
Two police houses at Anditale police post which were occupied by villagers for several years were also burnt down, which Akol tribesmen claimed were occupied by their enemies.
The persistent efforts by my police personnel under the command of Wabag police station commander Inspector Epenes Nili and Kompiam police station commander, who are both from the area and the tireless efforts of provincial law and order officer Nelson Leia, the two tribes agreed to the truce.
about the people’s welfare and seek solutions to assist, rather than hiding behind the developers and saying everything about the project was alright.
“If everything has been run smoothly, why are the people still in the courts? ” Mr Arako said.
Mr Arako said the fact that some landowners are still in court trying to obtain funds like the infrastructure development grants and seed capitals, showed that the much hyped project was bulldozed by a minority group without proper consultation with the rest of the impacted population.
He said the mandated leaders should be concerned
“Why is Tari town being seen as a cowboy town with no regard for law and order?
What has the province to show for the LNG equities?”
Mr Arako said now the Government is lookin g toward developing the second LNG project in Gulf Province, and warned the people there to think twice and get proper advice from honest lawyers before putting pen to paper on the deals with the State and the developer.
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COCOA is the only cash crop that can intervene to change the current living standard of people within the Morobe local level government council area in Huon district of Morobe Province.
Major Ivan Timo of the PNG Defence Force said this during a one day cocoa consultative workshop held at Kobo village on the South Coast of Morobe LLG.
Mr Timo said the standard living in the villages were well below poverty, despite that political leadership in the past 20 years were from Morobe.
He said there were no tangible developments since
the country gained its independence.
“Services and business activities have not reached the people despite the fact that, this part of the LLG has produced political leadership for the past 20 years but the peoples’ life style had not change.
People are still using the old traditional ways which is clear evident of poor services reaching the people.
“So how can I help and what can I do to bring some intervention to change these life styles therefore I did a research for ways in which a commodity cash crop can reach all household to change their life styles, “Mr Timo said.
He said cocoa was then
chosen which he believes will change their lives, improve their standard of living, providing basis needs and provide income for the people.
He said cocoa was introduced by former Huon Gulf MP Sasa Zibe through Bris Kanda but did not come in a full packet resulting in cocoa farmers abandoning cocoa when Bris Kanda exits.
Farmers have quit farming cocoa, so we need to revive the existing cocoa farm and set the foundation to help improve their lives, so that it can provide incentives, and motivate those who have no cocoa farms to start venturing into cocoa industry,” he said.
SEVERAL factors have contributed to the delay in the payment of entitlements of former Lutheran Shipping employees, says the Evangelical Lutheran Church of PNG (ELCPNG) Council.
ELC-PNG Papua District President Qogi Zonggoreng while presiding the church’s council meeting recently assured that the matter has been prioritised to be attended to immediately.
“The first reason behind the delay is because Kambang Holdings, trading as Lutheran Shipping, had no proper records in place for the liquidator to settle the employees’ entitlements,” Mr Zonggoreng said.
According to ELC-PNG Council records there were over 300 employees who left after the company had closed down and many of their personal records were not kept in order.
Mr Zonggoreng described the process of sorting the records out to be an overwhelming one and that the liquidation team are currently working hard to have them settled prior to issuing the payments.
“The second reason behind the delay of the payment is because the ELC-PNG Church Council has received legal objection from
some factions of the church,” Mr Zonggoreng added.
He said a few factions of the church had decided to go against the council’s decision to have Kamabang Holding’s assets liquidated due to certain unknown reasons.
The church council, however, stressed that the issue between them and the segregated faction is one that has contributed immensely to the church facing the court and the delay of entitlements payouts.
Despite these issues, the church council reassured the former employees of Kambang Holdings they have arranged for the liquidation process to restart immediately.
Meanwhile, the ELC-PNG Council has announced that they will recommence coastal transport services upon the arrival of the new passenger- cargo vessel towards the end of this year.
“The Council has identified a commercial company with established shipping expertise to operate under the new business name Lutheran Shipping Services,” the Council said.
Arrangements are underway to have the vessel and its documents sorted out for its operations to commence next year.
By NICOLE JOANNES
AN oil palm grower in West New Britain, John Bima says he was insulted to hear over radio that the current weather pattern is nothing unusual from the ones experienced by the province in the past.
Mr Bima, from Galai one in Mosa LLG, which was hit hard by the current extreme weather, said he does not agree with comments by the head of national weather wervice, Jimmy Gamoga.
“Oil palm trees do not get uprooted under usual weather. Many landslides, overflowing rivers and flash water creating so much turmoil in the lives of people is not caused by the usual weather as claimed by the chief weatherman,” Mr Bima said.
He said he was born in West New Britain and lived over 40 years in this province and in his lifetime there he had not experienced or seen anything like the damages and destructions caused to roads, houses, cash crops and personal properties caused by this prolonged severe weather.
WEST New Britain Governor
Sasindran Muthuvel said he is alarmed by the new food security risks posed by the uprooting and damages caused to oil palm trees by the recent strong winds in the province.
He said the small farmers are already suffering from poor infrastructure to bring their crops to the mills and with such destructions to their crops, the small farmers are worse off.
Farmers rely on oil palm as their sole income earner, especially those in the land settlement scheme areas and this damage to the crops is a serious matter, said Governor Muthuvel.
He said farmers that had their palms damaged by the strong winds will lose income because they will no longer harvest fruits to earn an income.
Unless new replanting is done now, they will have to wait for years before the replanting cycle begins. During this period, the affected farmers have to find other means to sustain their living.
Mr Muthuvel said farmers in the land settlement scheme areas, seeking other income earning opportunities face a huge challenge because blocks are already populated and there is no extra land to grow food or introduce other cash crops where oil palm has already been planted.
CONCERN RAISED: WEST New Britain
Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel said says he is alarmed by the new food security risks posed by the uprooting and damages caused to oil palm trees by the recent strong winds in the province.
SOLE INCOME: Farmers rely on oil palm as their sole income earner, especially those in the Land Settlement Scheme areas and this damage to the crops is a serious matter, said Governor Muthuvel.
RISK: This is the risk with monoculture cash crop like oil palm.
This is the risk with monoculture cash crops like oil palm, he said. He called on officials of Oil Palm Industry Corporation to go out into those affected zones and assess damages caused by this extreme bad weather.
This destruction of hundreds of oil palm trees that occurred in the land settlement scheme areas of Mosa local level government has been described by farmers as scary and something new which they had never seen or experienced in many decades.
Meanwhile Works Minister Francis Awesa and Secretary David Wereh are expected to visit the province on Friday to see firsthand the damages caused by the bad weather.
“To me this definitely is a new and strange weather pattern”
Mr Bima said. Mr Bima said as a victim of this disaster he was outraged by such comments that played down the magnitude and extent of damage and destruction brought upon him and others by this very abnormal weather.
On the other hand he said he fully supports and is thankful to Governor Sasindran Muthuvel for his tireless efforts in trying to get assistance from the national Government, private sector, NGOs, individuals and foreign governments to help the victims of this disaster.
He said in his subdivision there are over 200 mothers whose gardens had been washed away by landslides and they have no other source of food supply to keep them going.
Women and children are feeling the pinch of this disaster.
“Our water sources have been damaged by the land slides. This is a life threatening situation never seen before. We are calling on the government and service minded individuals and organisations to act quickly and reach out to us,” he said.
SEVERAL staff from the Australian High Commission are in Bougainville on a project to gather stories about Bougainvilleans delivering services and making an impact in their communities.
The team is made up of Port Moresby-based Australian High Commission staff Andrew Gavin, photo-journalist Lorrie Graham, and Jeffrey Kop from the Buka office.
Ms Graham is an experienced photographer and is hired by the Australian High Commission to take photographs of infrastructural developments donated by the Australian government.
During the visit, the team stopped over at schools, health centres, law and justice facilities and community services to conduct photos and interviews.
The aim is to highlight and raise awareness about the work of Bougainvilleans delivering services to their own people and making an impact, with the support of the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the Australian Government.
In Arawa, the team visited the Arawa police station and had a briefing with police station commander Senior Sergeant Herman Birengka.
They also had the chance to visit the newly built Arawa police barracks staff houses and single quarter accommodation which was funded by Australia.
The team also visited the Arawa Health Centre, the project management unit and ABG technical services division. They will do the same also in Buin, South Bougainville before heading back to Buka and Port Moresby.
THE United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in PNG will support the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) implement the upcoming elections.
The new initiative to help in the elections was launched this month as a follow-up to the request of the Government of PNG and the Autonomous Bougainville Government for UN-backed electoral support to the general elections in Bougainville, scheduled to take place from May to June.
The project will provide shortterm (five month) support to the electoral process in the six areas of coordination of the observer effort; support to the establishment of electoral dispute resolution mechanisms; training support to women candidates; training of candidates and party agents; training of media representatives; and support to a post-elections lessons.
“The ABG welcomes the support provided by the UN family for the conduct of transparent and credible 2015 elections in Autonomous Region of Bougainville,” said ABG chief secretary Monovi Amani.
“This support is timely and will go a long way in providing a safe and enabling environment for the pathway to peace and development in Bougainville and creating a cred-
ible road map for the referendum to take place within the next five years.
Roy Trivedy, the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, said the initiative will help long term peace on Bougvainville.
“This work aims to assist Bougainville to move towards a long-standing peace based on a democratic process so that the people of Bougainville can build a better future for all,” Mr Trivedy said.
“As the UN team in Papua New Guinea, we are committed to support the Government of Bougainville to conduct credible, transparent and inclusive elections.”
He said the upcoming elections are seen as crucial as they will mark the start of the referendum period agreed upon in the Bougainville Peace Agreement with the new leadership leading Autonomous Region of Bougainville and its people towards referendum.
In this context the need for transparent, credible and well-administered elections is critical, he said.
The project is implemented by UNDP in partnership with its sister agencies. While it is focused on immediate support to the elections, opportunities for a wider long-term initiatives.
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PARLIAMENT has now passed and enacted into law the recently gazetted new Small–Medium Enterprises (SME) Corporation Act 2014.
Minister for Trade Commerce & Industry, Richard Maru announced this during a press conference held yesterday.
Minister Maru said Parliament also in the same legislation repealed the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) Act, paving way for the new SME Corporation to succeed the Small Business Development Corporation, the lead agency for the (SME) sector in Papua New Guinea.
He thanked the Government and Parliament for the overwhelming support received when he presented the SME bill of 2014 in Parliament.
Economic growth and SME sector growth is a policy priority for the O’Neil/Dion Government and the Minister is thankful that the new legislation has been passed, certified by the Speaker and gazetted into law.
Minister Maru said the corporate governance structure of the new SME Corporation will be the key difference between the SBDC Act and the new SME Corporation Act.
Under the new SME Corporation Act, the Prime Minister is chairman of the SME Council which was not the case under the SBDC Act.
The new SME Corporation will be administered by an SME Council and overall governing and oversight body with the Prime Minister as the chairman.
Membership of the SME Council consists of: Prime Ministerchairperson; Minister for Trade Commerce & Industry- deputy chairperson; Minister for National Planning & Monitoring; Minister for Agriculture and Agro- based industry; Minister for Science Technology and Innovations and few other economical ministries.
A few State institutions and line agency representatives including
The bottom line
Chief Secretary to Government; Governor of the Bank of PNG; chairperson- National Development Bank, chairperson-representative of the Indigenous Business Council; president-representative of Rural Industries Council; president-representative of the PNG Chamber of Commerce and president-representative of the PNG Council of Women are also members of the Council.
“The critical legislative reform is essential so the SME sector gets the focus and the highest support from the Government, because growth of the SME sector is the key in supporting our economic growth and
future as a nation,” said Minister Maru.
SME sector can create over 60 per cent of formal sector jobs instead of 20 per cent today, and contribute to 50 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) instead of 10 per cent today.
“Now that the legislation is passed, we will immediately appoint a competent SME Corporation Board and they will advertise the position of managing director, and forward a shortlist to me to take to the NEC so we can appoint a new managing director who will be approved to provide the leadership to take the SME Corporation
forward.
“This is especially critical as I will be presenting the new SME Policy and SME Sector Master Plan 2015-2030 to the NEC and then later in Parliament in the May sitting. I will also be presenting critical enabling legislations including the new Foreign Investment Regulation which also provides for reserved PNG businesses,” said Minister Maru.
“We are also drafting a new Franchise Legislation for PNG, the first since independence, to promote PNG citizens running of all franchise businesses in Papua New Guinea,” he added.
During 1990, employment in small businesses grew by 1.1 per cent, while employment in large businesses fell by 0.6 per cent.
THE ASIAN Development Bank (ADB) is preparing initial assistance to support the Government and people of Vanuatu for the deaths and widespread damages caused across the South Pacific archipelago by Tropical Cyclone Pam over the weekend.
ADB president Takehiko Nakao has announced ADB’s initial package of assistance amounting to $5 million will come from its Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund and other fund sources for relief and initial reconstruction work in Vanuatu. He said ADB will work with the Government of Vanuatu and other development partners to conduct an immediate needs assessment to identify and agree on the most urgent and important assistance required.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the people of Vanuatu for the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Pam,” Mr Nakao wrote in a letter delivered to the President of Republic of Vanuatu, Baldwin Lonsdale.
“ADB stands ready to help Vanuatu’s post-cyclone recovery and reconstruction.”
The Government of Vanuatu has declared a state of emergency for Shefa Province, which takes in the country’s capital Port Vila on Efate Island, as relief workers assess the damage.
Initial estimates have indicated that up to 90% of structures were either damaged or destroyed on Efate.
LEADING global communications provider Digicel said as recovery efforts commence in Vanuatu, the company has made good progress in restoring its network, enabling customers to make and receive calls, text messages and emails.
The Digicel network in Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, is almost fully restored and teams will soon move to connect the rest of Efate, Tanna, Santo and other islands.
The off-island fibre connectivity has been fully restored and bandwidth capacity over satellite has been increased by 500%, ensuring domestic towers have sufficient network capacity available.
Speaking from Vanuatu, Digicel Asia Pacific CEO, Michael Murphy, said; “We are deeply saddened by and concerned about the destruction caused by Cyclone Pam that hit Vanuatu on Friday, and the devastation it has
DIGICEL: A mobile phone network provider operating in 31 markets across the Caribbean, Central America, and Oceania regions. The company is owned by Irishman Denis O’Brien, is incorporated in Bermuda, and based in Jamaica.
VANUATU: Officially the Republic of Vanuatu, is located in the South Pacific Ocean. Vanuatu’s total area is roughly 12,274 square kilometres.
left behind.
“We know that at this time communications are of utmost importance as families and loved ones stay connected with those across the islands and abroad – and we are working tirelessly to enable customers to do so.
“With that, we have completely restored network con-
CONTRACTORS to the Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) in Madang Province have been encouraged to provide a safe and healthy work place for their employees during their operations at all times.
Vice president of Ramu NiCo Management (MCC), Wang Baowen emphasised this yesterday during his address to landowner company representatives during induction training at the company’s operation base in Madang.
Mr Wang urged that all contractors to the Ramu Project must adhere to every aspect of the company’s health, safety and environment standards and requirements.
Ramu Nickel Project landowner contracting companies who attended the safety induction training were KBK Limited, Wass Matau Limited, Raibus Engineering, Raibus Security and Maigari Limited.
KBK Limited represents landowners from the Kurumbukari area in UsinoBundi, Wass Matau represents coastal landowners in Rai Coast, Maigari Limited represents the inland pipeline landowners, while Raibus Engineering and Raibus Security are subsidiaries of an umbrella landowner company called Raibus Limited. The safety induction was organised by the Community Affairs Department of Ramu NiCo and facilitated by its HSE Department.
Mr Wang said he understands that most of the landowner companies have come into existence for only a short time since Ramu NiCo began, however, it is very important that these contractors abide by the safety standards requirements.
He also emphasised on contractors having knowledge on applying rules of PPE (personal protection equipment) SOP (Standard operating procedures) and safety’s golden rules and
other safety standard requirements. Mr Wang said in the next half year Ramu NiCo plans to conduct training courses and invite landowner company representatives to attend.
He also thanked contractors and landowner companies for their continued support and understanding during these tough and challenging times facing Ramu NiCo during the current slump in world metal price.
Training facilitator from Ramu NiCo HSE Department Raymond Managi, said the health safety and environment objective of Ramu NiCo is to provide a safe and healthy work place for its workforce, contractors and visitors in all activities associated with the company.
He added that although Ramu NiCo has a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work place, it is the contracting company’s responsibility to identify hazards, report it and find ways to eliminate or control them.
Landowner company representatives all agreed that at the end of the induction they will all nominate a representative from their organisation to attend further training on HSE. That person appointed will liaise with Ramu NiCo HSE department in all HSE matters.
nectivity in the capital, Port Vila, and are working with the Government and local companies to get technical staff to the outer islands so we can restore communications in as many locations as possible,” continued Murphy.
Public charging stations are being deployed across the islands so that customers can power their phones and Digicel is providing US$250,000, (more than K6 million) in free credit, so that customers can get in touch with their loved ones when services are restored.
While Digicel’s technical teams from Fiji and PNG are currently working remotely, charter planes and helicopters are being prepared for flight today.
In addition, Huawei, SES and other key vendors have kindly donated technical resources and equipment to aid Digicel in its recovery efforts.
All contractors to the Ramu Project must adhere to the every aspect of the company’s health, safety and environment standards and requirements
WANG BAOWEN Ramu Nico
MONARCHY New Zealand is happy Prince Harry will be visiting in May, but said the Government is responsible for not hosting him sooner.
Younger son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, the 30-year-old prince will be on his first visit of New Zealand, surprisingly given his love of adventure and rugby.
“The royals need to be invited by the Government in order to visit, Monarchy New Zealand chair,” Dr Sean Palmer said.
“It’s the Prime Minister’s decision to ask them to come down here,” he said.
“When anyone complains why don’t we see the royals here more often? The answer is you’ve got to ask the Government that.”
Monarchy New Zealand sees the royal family as an important part of New Zealand culture.
“It’s a vital component of
FOREIGN Minister Julie Bishop has announced to the Federal Government that she will send an additional urban search and rescue team to Vanuatu in response to the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Pam.
Ms Bishop said a team of 54 personnel will arrive in Port Vila today to assist in the clean-up and repair work for the capital’s hospital. The official death toll from the cyclone has been revised by the United Nations to 11 people from an earlier figure of 24.
But many officials anticipate the number will rise once they are able to reach the outer islands of the scattered archipelago to inspect the damage there.
Australian personnel carried out aerial reconnaissance flights over Vanuatu on Monday to assess the damage across the Pacific island nation, particularly in the southern islands where the eye of the cyclone was closest.
“In response to the aerial reconnaissance, we know that we need more medical and urban search and rescue teams,” Ms Bishop told reporters in Canberra.
“The ADF (Australian Defence Force) have been carrying out further assessments over the last 36 hours which have shown that the Port Vila hospital has been signifi-
cantly damaged.
“We believe that establishing this critical infrastructure after the cyclone is essential to giving healthcare to those injured as a result of the cyclone.”
She said the team would also provide assistance to Vanuatu’s government to “assess damage and potential recovery needs of other major infrastructure in Port Vila”.
Health Minister Sussan Ley said protecting the health of the population following the disaster was a critical part of the response and recovery effort.
She said 20 Australian medical staff; including doctors, nurses, and paramedics would leave for Vanuatu on Wednesday.
“The team will work within the new wing of the existing hospital and with local staff to provide general practice and emergency care shifts,” Ms
-ABC news
PRINCE Harryour government, a guarantee of our democracy, and a sign of our maturity and independence as a nation.”
Prime Minister John Key said he was thrilled New Zealand would have the opportunity to welcome the fourth-in-line to the British throne.
“This is Prince Harry’s first visit to New Zealand and we are very keen to show him as much of the country as possible,” Key said.
-Stuff news
MELBOURNE: A man and woman posing as council workers have assaulted an elderly woman in her Melbourne home.
The pair grabbed her by her hair and shoulders and
threw her to the ground after she let them into her Alphington home on Saturday. She was tied up and they then ransacked her home and left.
DON Bosco Technical School is a private Catholic educational institution owned and operated by the Sallesians of Don Bosco. Recently, 42 of its grade 12 students helped beautify the Anglicare POM Office and Good Shepherd Church yards.
IT’S NEVER too old to go to school as women from Moresby South found out when they signed up to learn how to sew under the skills training program sponsored by Moresby South Justin Tkatchenko.
Teacher in Charge Alice Hale said, “Many of the women for the first time are learning how to use a sewing machine and learning how to sew different items.”
She added that for the past four weeks the ladies have been learning how to sew skirts, blouses, dresses, pot holders and
are currently working on their graduation gown.
“We are grateful to our Member Justin Tkatchenko for his continuous support and for coming up with this training centre to help the mothers of Moresby South,” said Hale.
She added that this is the first batch of sewing class that will graduate in three weeks and she hopes that more ladies from Moresby South can also enrol at the centre and learn how to sew.
“Education doesn’t stop when you get married or have children, learning is a progressive
thing,” Hale said. She continued, “This is a good initiative for the women to learn how to sew and learn a skill that will provide an income for them in the long run.”
Many of the ladies told Post Courier that they enjoyed the sewing classes not only because they are learning new things everyday but because it also helps them to escape the hustles and bustles of home.
One mother praised Member Tkatchenko for his ongoing support to the women of Moresby South.
As part of its spiritual mentoring and educational programs students are sent to respective NGOs, Community Organizations and other selected venues to conduct a 5 hour community service work.
This program is called the Servanthood and Leadership Training or SALT Program. The program is conducted only for the Grade 12 students and the Industrial Training Course Students at the School in Gabutu.
Recently grade 12 Rinadli with the leadership of the Class Patron Mr. Peter of Don Bosco Technical School extended their community service to an NGO here in Waigani, Port Moresby. Mr. Peter said the school initiates the program in the hope of getting the final year students prepared to face the world outside as a servant leader. “We at the Don Bosco Technical School would like to help our students enhance their skills as a leader in the community through ac-
tivities as such” he added.
Mr. Peter said that there were 3 grade 12 classes and 5 Industrial Training Course Classes in total and all were spread out in the city to serve different community groups and the Port Moresby General Hospital, of which Anglicare PNG Inc. was one of the selected organizations to be provided with the yard cleaning assistance. His class had a total of 42 young men who under take the general subjects of formal schooling as well as technical subjects.
He added that the SALT Program is an annual event which coincides with their formation activities like school retreats. The service include trimming of hedges, cutting grass, collection of rubbish and sweeping or raking of fallen leaves and the general beatification within and outside of the premises.
Branch Manager for Anglicare POM Bernard Paru on behalf of the Organization thanked the students and Don Bosco School for this initiative and expressed that more such activities were welcomed by Anglicare. Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) Gabutu is a technical secondary school which caters for Grades 9 to Grades 12 and also offers Industrial Training Courses.
YOUTHS in the National Capital District have been told to behave themselves during the Pacific Games said NCD Youth Desk Coordinator Rex Buka.
National Capital District Commission Youth Desk has taken on board the responsibility of educating the youths on safety during the Pacific Games along with partners, Marie Stopes and the Pacific Games Committee.
“As we draw close to the Pacific Games youths in the city need to be educated and made aware on the type of behaviour they should display when the Games is on,” Buka said.
“We want to tell the youths that the Pacific Games is all about forging friendships, learning about each oth-
ers’ cultures, sharing and being one Pacific nation,” he added.
Buka said that since security during the Pacific Games will be tight, youths should be educated on how to stay safe and not get involved in illegal activities during that time.
He added that young people and youths must use this time productively and positively, engage in community development projects, be model citizens and future role models for younger children in their communities.
Buka added that our partners will also help during the awareness campaign educating youths on family planning issues by Marie Stopes and bringing the spirit of the games to the people through the Pacific Games Mascot Tura by the Games Committee.
ST PETERS Lutheran College was established in 1945 as a boarding school for Queensland’s small Lutheran community. From these humble beginnings, St Peters Lutheran College has grown to be the largest independent school in Queensland with over 2,100 day and boarding students from Prep to Year 12. Over 60 nationalities are represented within the student body.
St Peters is a Christian school which values God’s love, our Lutheran heritage and the traditions of St Peters Lutheran College including our strong ties with the people of Papua New Guinea since the 1950’s when the fi rst PNG students enrolled in the school as boarders.
Boarding in our recently refurbished boarding houses is available for boys and girls from Years 6 to 12. St Peters boarding provides an opportunity for the growth of lifelong friendships, exposure to other cultures and the development of character, self-discipline, leadership and initiative.
The St Peters curriculum provides a broad and appropriate range of subjects and promotes innovation and excellence in teaching, learning and pastoral care. Whilst our partnerships with families and the community which prepare students for further studies and careers, our students feel safe and are encouraged to serve others and their community with confidence and and our holistic approach focuses on equity, diversity, individuality and multiculturalism.
The St Peters academic programs begin in the Junior School (Prep –Year 4) with development of core literacy and numeracy skills. Then in the Middle School (Years 5 - 6), the St Peters curriculum focuses on the development of independent and active learning skills while reinforcing and building on core academic areas. The Junior High (Years 7 - 9)
curriculum builds upon what has been learnt in Junior and Middle Schools and introduces key concepts for Senior Schooling without the need for significant specialisation.
At the St Peters Outdoor Education Centre, Ironbark, about 60 km from Toowoomba on the Darling Downs, Year 9 students undertake a unique, life-forming five-weeks program of living and working on a cattle property. Ironbark challenges students physically, socially, intellectually and spiritually. Parents typically say that their children “grew up” while they were at Ironbark and students invariably say that Ironbark was the most significant part of their time at St Peters.
St Peters Senior School curriculum includes Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) subjects, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and Vocational Education & Training (VET) pathways. In total, over 40 Senior School subjects meet the diverse academic needs of our students as they prepare for their futures outside of St Peters, whatever or wherever they may be. A diverse co-curricular program complements our academic offerings with sport, music and cultural activities being the most popular choices. Our form teachers, pastors and counsellors contribute to our integrated pastoral care program which supports students and their families through their St Peters journey.
Chapel worship is central to the community life of all St Peters students, staff and faculty. As a school of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District, St Peters ensures that its program welcomes students of other Christian denominations and other religions or philosophical perspectives.
St Peters Old Scholars have distinguished themselves in all walks of life.
WESTPAC’S Everywhere Banking team in Lae took to the town of Gusap in January to bring innovative, low cost banking services and free fi nancial education to local communities in this booming agricultural town.
Team members from Westpac’s Lae branch visited the town to help introduce the bank’s innovative banking services and products tailored to communities in remote or rural locations.
“We’re very pleased to offer our unique In-store banking service in these communities,” said Geoff
Toone, General Manager, Westpac PNG.
“Men and women living near an In-Store Banking merchant can now make deposits, withdrawals, account balance enquiries and funds transfers between Westpac accounts. These services can now be as close as the customer’s local merchant, meaning customers save costs and travel time to a branch. Previously, this could take up to half a day.”
“In addition, we’re also pleased to be able to offer a new Mobile Banking service, which allows Papua
New Guineans to bank on the go – wherever they are,” he added. While in Gusap, the Westpac team offered free fi nancial literacy to locals. Free fi nancial education is at the heart of Westpac’s sustainability strategy to help empower through education by teaching more men and
women to bank and save with confidence.
Adam Downie, Head of Westpac Retail Banking said, “While we were pleased to be able to reach out to customers seeking accounts and quickly provide them with handy-cards, PINs and account numbers as well
as offer fi nancial literacy training, we’re aware that more men and women would like bankin g services and we plan to visit again,” he said.
“This is a booming agriculture town and if people need our banking services, it’s our job to bring those services to them.”
THE Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry was approached this week to give a brief of business and infrastructure development in the city.
Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Alan McLay gave this brief overview below: Lae is an increasingly good place to do business. The challenge of fi xing the city’s deteriorating infrastructure, have been met in a positive way by the PNG Government over the last six years, with most of the major roads in the city repaired or reconstructed; the power supply being more regular and constant; and the Lae Port with increased capacity, thanks to the recently opened Tidal Basin Project and extensions to the existing shipping berths.
A better road to Nadzab is being undertaken, which will see the construction of a four lane highway for most of the 40km to the airport. This will increase the efficiency of Lae business operations with quicker and relatively problem free trips to the airport. The completion of the few remaining major city roads, will round off the immediate infrastructural requirements for the City.
Of course, Lae depends so much on the Highlands Highway that extends far beyond the turn off to the
Nadzab Airport. The Highlands Provinces depend on the freight in and out of the Lae Port for their very existence, and the poor state of the Highway has increased the difficulty of travelling along the road. Many years of lack of maintenance and an increase in truck movements and size of the trucks are the main reasons for deterioration of the road. We have seen a significant increase in road maintenance recently but unfortunately most has been catch up maintenance. We really need to see a commitment by the Government to fi x the road completely.
Lae business is picking up gradually after a decline on the completion of the LNG project and other resource industries reviewing operations when the metal prices dropped especially Gold.
Recently there has been mounting pressure on businesses that import goods due to restrictions on forex which has made it difficult for a range of businesses across the board. The Manufacturing Industry that has been an ever increasing part of the Lae business scene is struggling to obtain the needed overseas components to keep up with the demand and look forward to the lifting of forex restrictions soon, as indicated by the Government.
PNG’s second-largest city is the focal point for the nation’s downstream processing industries.
Although it plays second fiddle to the national capital Port Moresby, Lae in Morobe Province is PNG’s industrial capital and boasts considerable activity in manufacturing, trading, agribusiness and, more recently, fisheries.
Many of PNG largest producers have their head offices here, including K K Kingston, Laga Industries, Mainland Holdings and (100 km away) Ramu Agri Industries. Local subsidiaries of international fi rms such as Nestlé, Coca-Cola Amatil, DuluxGroup and Japan’s PNG Taiheiyo Cement also call Lae home.
Local growth
Unsurprisingly, PNG’s recent economic boom, spearheaded by the PNG LNG project, has also had a considerable impact on Lae.
Perhaps the biggest driver of local growth has been Harmony Gold–Newcrest’s major new mining project at Hidden Valley, three hours drive from Lae and, to a lesser extent, the Ramu Nickel mine near Madang, from which significant benefits have flowed. One local business leader we spoke to has even greater hopes for the impact of the new Wafi-Golpu gold/copper project.
A major local fisheries sector has sprung up over the past decade, with major processing facilities constructed by Frabelle (Philippines) and International Food Corporation (Malaysia).
The good times have also encouraged PNG’s larger manufacturers to make sizeable new investments in Lae, including SP Brewery and Lae Biscuit Company.
With its central location, access to the Highlands and port facilities, Lae is a natural industrial hub. Nowadays, 60 per cent to 70 per cent of all PNG’s trade passes through Lae, including 90 per cent of coffee exports.
Infrastructure challenges
Despite this, Lae is still beset by the kind of infrastructure challenges that are endemic in PNG. Its poorly-maintained urban roads have earned it the nickname ‘pothole city’, while congestion at PNG’s busiest port leads to perennial freight delays. It also shares the same security problems as Port Moresby, with its accessibility making it an obvious destination for itinerants from the Highlands.
There is some good news on the infrastructure front, however. A major initiative to improve the city’s roads commenced in 2011. While it is yet to be completed, progress has clearly been made.
Despite being the second city in a country of some six million, Lae has an official urban population of more than 120,000 (2000 census)
It is situated on the Huon Gulf and is the capital of Morobe Province
Lae’s Nazdab Airport is a 30-to-40 minute drive from town
Lae is home to the well-regarded Papua
New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech)
Geographically central
PNG’s largest port facilities
PNG’s major road hub, located at the start of the Highlands Highway that links the heavily populated Highlands area to the coast Regular flights to Port Moresby and other domestic centres
The ELC-PNG national church council during its special council meeting this week took important decisions on Kambang Holdings in Liquidation, the restart of Lutheran shipping services and on the amended Lutheran University Act.
Liquidation of kambang holding Ltd
1. The council takes notes with regret that the earlier observed delays in the liquidation are not overcome .Especially the non-payment of finish pay to the workers continues to create a lot of pain at present the progress of the liquidation is heavily suffering from court actions. The council encourages all appropriate action to stop these legal obstructions.
2. The council gives notice to Madang based young wadau lawyers that they cannot act, nor claim to act for the ELC- PNG in any court action or other activities.
3. The council has instructed its lawyers to get all misleading claims dismissed that hinder and damage the liquidation process, including the prompt payment of staff entitlements.
1. The council resolved to start providing coastal transport services under the business name “Lutheran shipping services”. It decided to have a new 38 meter Roll on-roll off catamaran, combined 150 passenger-cargo vessel built for delivery in PNG waters by the first week of December 2015, already in class with a valid National Maritime Safety Authority Certificate.
2. The council is very pleased with this move as it will provide safe transport for the coastal communicaties and also for the delegates travelling to its upcoming synod meeting I the second week of January 2016 in Heldsbach, Finschhafen.
3. The council has identified a commercial company with established shipping expertise to operate the vessel under Lutheran shipping services flag. In this way the church itself will be able to focus on its important mission work.
Name
Rev.Zau Rapa
Rev.Tauke Samale
Mr.Rongko Wogenuc
Rev.Rauke Rawa
Mr. Wane Kanapi
Mr.Jowae Josah
Mr.Micheal Dupia
Rev. Nul Moss
Mr.Yoba Barime
Rev.Fuaka Frisu
Mr.Allan Nakambi
Rev.kelly Rabisang
Mr.Wanga Tikini
Rev.Galat Nungot
Mr.Garim Matei
Rev.Malil saulgaria
Mr.seth Zaceuss Rev.Tau Binato
Mr Benny Kitumbing
Mr.kennedy wolinu Rev.Qogi Zongoreng
4. The ELC-PNG counts on the earlier commitment of the government and the prime Minister to support the church with an interest free loan of up to 10 million kina as the conclusion of the liquidation has been delayed by these regrettable court actions.
1. Last November National Parliament repealed the 2012 Lutheran University Act which was the foundation for church council approved plans to develop a university .this unfortunate action caused great disappointment in the council ,because there was no consultation at all. The council is the appropriate authority to be consulted in such matters.
2. The council decided to seek judicial review of the rushed decision in parliament with the intention to quash the Lutheran university (Amendment) Act 2014
3. The Lutheran in Papua New Guinea deserve to have a university that reflects transparent ELC-PNG ownership and governance.
4. The council observed that public funds amounts to 22 million kina have been given to the committee of the 2006 university Act on the understanding (or assumption) that it supports the education minis tries of two Lutheran church .The ECL-PNG denies to be represented by this “2006 Act committee” and does not support granting government support to this committee under the auspices of being “Lutheran ’’
5. The council therefore supports the initiative that investigations are carried out into the spending of these public funds.
6. The council welcomes dialogue with all stakeholders to resolve these damaging problems.
Mipela olgeta I sainim disla pepa soim lista bilong ELC-PNG national sios kaunsel bung,kamap long luteran guest haus konfrens hall,ampo-lae,kamap long 9-13 mas 2015. Mipela husait sainim I bin mekim na sapotim dispela ol sios kaunsel resolusen bilong toktok bilong liquidation,”Lutheran shipping service’’na lutheran university, nau kamap olsem press Release,aninit long nem ,resolutions of special church council meeting march 2015,I go long midia /niuspepa/ redio/television
THE safety of the general public using the Public Motor Vehicles (PMV) and the roads seem to be at a high risk. This is due to the fact that most PMV drivers including taxis and private vehicles are not paying much attention to road safety rules when on the road.
Most drivers now a days have not been through proper driving school or have not been qualified to attain driving license or have gained licenses illegally or driving without the authority to do so.
According to the Papua New Guinea Motor Traffic Driving Rules drivers are required to attain a license to show that they can drive a particular type of vehicle properly.
Before you can learn to drive on a public street you must have a Learners Permit. To obtain a Learners Permit to drive a car, a utility or a motor cycle you must be at least 16 years and 9 months old.
To obtain a learners permit for any other class of vehicle you must be 21 years old and have already had a driving license for one year.
You cannot get a driver’s license until you are 17 years of age. 7until you are 221 years old you can only drive cars with less than 8 seats and other vehicles weighing 2 tons of less.
When you pass your driving test, you will be issued with a provisional License for the fi rst one year and you must have a P plate on the back of your car and a P plate on the front of the car when you are driving. You must obey the road laws very closely or your license might be taken from your by the Superintendent of Motor Traffic.
However not a lot of the drivers today are following road safety rules thus unnecessary accidents happening due to the ignorance of these simple road safety tips when trying to obtain licenses.
HYUNDAI brings a new dynamism and improved capability to the market with their HD65 super cab. Tough, but stylish, the HD65 offers the perfect vehicle to meet the demands of PNG’s trucking and transport businesses.
The Super Cab cabin offers a new dimension to the class, an extra 300mm of space compared to its competitors. 300mm of extra carrying space adds a new dimension of flexibility to this class. Whether for stowage, or as rest area, it adds extra operating potential, especially for long distance operations.
The cabin is the most spacious in its class by a long way and getting into and out of the HD65 is made easy thanks to the conveniently lowered door step and wide (70-degree) door opening angle.
Servicing and regular checks are easier than ever thanks to the 50degree tilting cab which provides quick and easy access to the engine compartment.
The distinctive front headlights are a major night driving safety feature as they feature multi focus reflection technology for clearer,
wider and more precise light projection. Bigger headlamps provide more lumens which is safer for driving in the night.
The grill, radiator and cooling fan are large to achieve smooth air intake ensuring efficient engine cooling in PNG’s harsh tropical environment.
Designed to maximise capability and convenience the Hyundai HD series offer one of the safest and most ergonomic cabs available. It is not just comfortable, it works with the driver.
For example, the curved instrument and switch panel layout means less reaching and more instinctive control. minor controls, cab access, door and grab handles are optimally positioned, and there are ample interior illumination and stowage space. Servicing and regular checks are easier than ever thanks to the 50-degree tilting cab which provides quick and easy access to the engine compartment. When it comes to driver comfort, economy and convenience Hyundai is always right out there at the forefront.
ROAD safety rules by the Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited’s Motor Traffic Driving Rules continues:
Obey Speed Limits;
NEVER drive at a speed or in a way that is dangerous to any person. If you do this, then you are committing a very serious traffic offence.
Some speeds, even 25km per hour can be too fast, if, for instance, you were driving through a crowded market place or near a school where there are plenty of plenty
of people walking about. Always obey the speed signs – they are there for your safety.
In the town areas of Papua New Guinea, the speed limit is 60km per hour. You must keep a look-out for the speed signs and always drive carefully. The town area is generally shown by a 60km per hour speed sign erected at the edge of the town area. Outside the town the speed limit is 75km per hour. It does not mean you have to travel at the speed.
In the wet weather or on bad roads, slow
down!!
When overtaking;
Unless there is more than one traffic lane marked on the road for vehicles travelling the same way as you, you must pass another car on the right-hand side. But before overtaking, make sure that the road behind your car is clear and that there is not another car passing you.
Look in your rear vision mirror and over your right shoulder and if the road is clear, give a right turn signal and pull out.
Use the horn, making sure that there are
no double lines on the roadway and that there is not the top of a hill coming up or any other part of the road which you cannot see. When you have passed the other car, always leave it enough room, and do not turn back to the left too quickly, making the other drive put his brakes on or swerve.
When you are going to overtake another car, always make very sure that you can do so without the risk of hitting another car coming in the opposite direction.
AN OVERHEATING engine is more than a bummer, it can be an expensive engine killer that will leave you on the side of the road, then on to the repair shop for an expensive repair bill.
If your car has been running hot, you know the feeling.
You’re sitting in traffic, the light turns green, and you pray that traffic breaks enough for you to get some air flowing over the radiator so that engine temperature needle will go down just a little bit. It’s beyond stressful, and there’s no reason you should be forced to endure this.
The fact is, there are only a few things that commonly cause an engine to overheat regularly.
Low Coolant By a large margin, the most common cause for engine overheating is simply a low coolant level. Your engine’s cooling system relies on coolant to circulate and remove heat from the engine. If you don’t have enough coolant in there to do the job, heat will build up and your engine will overheat. No amount of running the heater in the summer will help if you don’t have enough coolant in the radiator to transfer that heat.
More tips to avoid overheating in next issue
TOYOTA Tsusho Pacific Holdings Groups Skills
Contest was held last week and saw 5 contestants from Pacific take part in this program.
Held annually the program is a Toyota Motor Corporation initiative carried out to promote and reward high standards of quality and excellence with the Ela Motors business. The contest is a culmination of a year long preparation and challenges the expertise of the Toyota Technicians, Service Advisors and Parts Advisors.
Field Service Manager Ben Johnson said, “The fi rst task includes information sourcing which involves technicians sourcing information from the workshop manual, second task engine mechanical task which involves replace a engine belt on the diesel engine and the third task is a customary interaction task, the fourth task is to repair an air-conditioning fault and the last task is an engine management task.”
He added, “The aim of the competition is about encouraging our staff to train and develop their skills to the next level”
Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga, and PNG are this years participants in the TTPHGS contest, hopefully Ela Motors hopes to see more countries in the Pacific join the program for next years competition.
THE winners of each regional contest will compete in multiple challenges including diagnostic skill, customer service and product knowledge to determine the best of the best. The Champions of each category will be announced on the evening of the competition with an awards ceremony to take place at the Royal Papua Yacht Club.
The Technicians are rewarded with a trip to Japan and attendance at the Toyota Assembly of Champions. The Service and Parts Advisor Champions will receive a cash prize in recognition of their expertise. For this year the award winners in each categories are; Technician Category Tony Maravila, Ela Motors Kokopo Dealership, Papua New Guinea Parts Advisor Category Sabina Mathai, Ela Motors Waigani Dealership, Papua New Guinea Service Advisor Category Jack Tatupe, Asco Motors Port Villa Dealership, Vanuatu
Tony Maravila will take trip to Japan who will be chaperoned by a manager from TTSPH or TTPNG). The trip will include one week excursion to attend the 25th Toyota Motor Corporation Assembly of Champions that encompasses numerous activities (i.e. visiting Toyota car making plant, Toyota Museum of Industry and Technology) and site-seeing opportunities (i.e. Bullet train ride from Nagoya city to Kyoto city to see historic Ryoan-ji Temple, The Golden Pavilion and Kiyomizu-dera temple).
Countries represented - 52
Attendees - 273
General Champions (Technician) – 44
Body and Paint Champions – 43
Service Advisor Champions – 39
Parts Champions – 21
Customer Relations Champions – 11
Champions from across the Toyota world fi rstly commit a pledge to the President of Toyota Motor Corporation Mr. Akio Toyoda at a very big ceremony. They all meet the president and he awards them a trophy and certificate. A plaque with their name and country is also included in the honor board at TMC. Names of participants are Ms Ruita Toben – Solomon Islands Rajnish Prasad, Pranesh Ram and Ami Chand – FijiMafi Tua – Samoa Hingano Niu’ila – Tonga and PNG participants are Ms Cynthia Herre, Mika Kere, Ricky Moimbo, Sep Wani, Heinz Milate, and Jerry Nanof.
Overview
BT50 Classic starts with the saying: When a car is this good it just keeps on going. Mazda BT50 Classic is so tough, so popular and such good value that Mazda has decided to keep right on producing them, alongside their all new BT50.
Make no mistake, this is a fi rst class vehicle. A true “Classic”.
How Do You Improve on a Classic?
How about all the Mazda bells and whistles and then some. 2.5litre intercooled turbo matched with Mazda’s famous, PNG proven 5 speed manual transmission. How about alloy wheels, air conditioning and rear tray bedliner at NO extra cost?
How about a brand spanking new ute at 2011 prices?
Come and see why this truck is so great, so great that Mazda keep making them even though there is a new model.
You know why??? Because It’s a CLASSIC!
Specifications
2.5 L Turbo Diesel Engine w/- Intercooler
5 Speed Manual Transmission
235/75R15 All Terrain Tyres
Power Steering
Air Conditioning (with heater)
AM/FM Radio/Clock & CD Player – 2 Speakers
Mag Wheels (4)
Limited Slip Differential
Front and Rear Over Fenders (Argent)
Tilt Steering
Rear Cargo Bed Liner
Intermittent Wipers
Rear Window Demister
Rear Step Bumper (Black)
Cloth Trimmed FR Bucket/RR Bench Seats
Vinyl Floor Mat
3 Point ELR Seat Belts
Panel Light Control (Rheostat)
Small Console Box
In Dash Slide Out Tray
Lockable Glove Box
Interior Cabin light
Driver and Passenger Sunvisors
Door pockets w/- Drink Holder
Interior Day/Night Mirror
Remote Fuel Lid Opener
Rear Cab Guard/Load Rest
Deep Cargo Box w/- Unique recessed inner wall
Rope Hooks
24 Month/40,000 Km warranty
AROUND 400,000 livestock began a 10-day trip to their spring pasture in Yili, China. Picture: BBC
PAKISTAN has hanged
12 convicts, the largest number of people executed on the same day since the country lifted a moratorium on executions.
The men were terrorists, murderers or guilty of “heinous crimes”, an interior ministry spokesman said.
At least 27 convicts have been executed since the moratorium was lifted, most of them militants, Reuters reported.
It is estimated there are more than 8,000 Pakistanis on death row. Rights groups say many convictions are unsafe.
A moratorium on hangings was lifted for terror-related crimes after a Taliban attack in December killed more than 150 people, mostly children, at a school in Peshawar.
But last week it became clear that officials had widened the capital punishment policy to include all prisoners on death row whose appeals had been rejected.
The subsequent execu-
A VICE-CHAIRMAN o f China’s biggest state-owned oil producer, PetroChina, is being investigated for “serious disciplinary violations”.
China’s disciplinary watchdog did not give details of the probe into Liao Yongyuan but the phrase usually refers to corruption.
Other executives from the firm and its parent company are already under investigation.
The government has said cracking down on corruption is a top priority.
Liao Yongyuan has been at the parent company, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), for 30 years and was appointment vice-chairman of PetroChina in May last year.
-BBC news
tions have taken place despite calls by the UN not to resume them.
Human rights groups say that prisoners often do not receive a fair trial at the hands of Pakistan’s outdated criminal justice system and that torture has often been used to force confessions from poorly-trained police.
Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper reported that the latest executions took place in Multan, Karachi, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala and Jhang. It reported that the hanging of one man in Multan was delayed at the last minute following an agreement between the defendant and the family of the murder victim.
On Thursday, the government is due to execute Shafqat Hussain, a prisoner who lawyers say was aged only 14 when he was convicted 10 years ago of the kidnap and manslaughter of a child.
They say that his confession was extracted after nine days of torture.
-BBC news
A New Zealander and two Burmese men have been found guilty of insulting religion in Myanmar over a poster promoting a drinks event depicting Buddha with headphones.
Philip Blackwood, who managed the VGastro Bar in Yangon, was arrested in December along with bar owner Tun Thurein and colleague Htut Ko Ko Lwin.
They have each been
sentenced to two and a half years in jail.
Burmese law makes it illegal to insult or damage any religion.
The poster, which was posted on Facebook and showed Buddha surrounded by psychedelic colours, sparked an angry response online. Myanmar, also known as Burma, has seen growing Buddhist nationalism in recent years.
-BBC news
FRANCE’S government is likely to back a bill banning excessively thin fashion models as well as potentially fining the modelling agency or fashion house that hires them and sending the agents to jail, the health minister says.
France, a hub for fashion and luxury industries worth tens of billions of euros, would join Italy, Spain and Israel which adopted laws against too-thin models on catwalks or in advertising campaigns in early 2013.
“It’s important for fashion models to say that they need to eat well and take care of their health, especially for young women who look to the models as an aesthetic ideal,” health minister Marisol Touraine said.
With major health legislation coming up for debate in parliament on March 17, Ms Touraine said the socialist government was likely to back two amendments relating to models’ weight.
The law would enforce
regular weight checks and fines of up to $79,000 for any breaches, with up to six months in jail for staff involved, socialist lawmaker Olivier Veran, who wrote the amendments, said.
Models would have to present a medical certificate showing a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 18, about 55 kilograms for a height of 175 centimetres, before being hired for a job and for a few weeks afterwards, he said.
The bill’s amendments also propose penalties for anything made public that could be seen as encouraging extreme thinness, notably pro-anorexia websites that glorify unhealthy lifestyles.
In 2007, Isabelle Caro, an anorexic 28-year-old former French fashion model, died after posing for a photographic campaign to raise awareness about the illness.
Some 30-40,000 people in France suffer from anorexia, most of them teenagers, said Dr Veran. -ABC news
NIGERIAN government troops also recaptured the town of Goniri in Yobe state, the military says. Picture: BBC
NIGERIA’S military says it has retaken the north-eastern town of Bama from the Islamist military group Boko Haram.
A large number of militants were killed and a “mopping up” operation is continuing in the second largest town in Borno state, it said.
Boko Haram was reportedly also ousted from Goniri, its last base in neighbouring Yobe state.
The group wants to impose Islamist rule and recently joined the Islamic State mili-
tants based in Syria and Iraq. More than 13,000 people have been killed since 2009. More than 1.5 million people have been displaced by the violence.
The conflict has since spread to neighbouring countries, including Chad and Cameroon.
Nigerian military spokesman Gen Chris Olukolade said the militants had suffered “massive” casualties, AFP news agency reports.
Bama is significant as it is close to the state capital
BUENOS AIRES: Forensic experts have identified the bodies of the 10 victims killed when two helicopters filming a French reality show collided in Argentina, including three of France’s top sports stars.
“The bodies of the eight French nationals and two Argentine pilots have been identified,” the Argentine judge leading the investigation, Daniel Herrera, said Monday.
Maiduguri and has witnessed some of the worst violence during this insurgency, the BBC’s Will Ross reports from Lagos.
The town was attacked several times by the jihadists before it was captured six months ago, our correspondent says.
Boko Haram fighters were forced to flee towards the border with Chad, the Nigerian military said, adding that it was now up to the Chadian military to pursue them.
-BBC news
The helicopters were filming an episode of Dropped, a reality show in which sports stars were taken blindfolded into inhospitable environments, when they collided in mid-air in a mountainous region of northwest Argentina.
The accident killed Olympic champion swimmer Camille Muffat, renowned yachtswoman Florence Arthaud and Olympic boxer Alexis Vastine, as well as five French television crew members and two Argentine pilots.
It took French and Argentine forensic experts a week to identify the bodies, which were badly burned in the crash.
Herrera said they had relied on dental and medical records and X-rays.
THE Leniata Legacy had the pleasure of working with the talented Patricia Otto and her label, “Awaken the Hausan eco-friendly fashion label. Ms Otto was one of the designers whose current collection was showcased on Saturday March 14 at the Unite Against Ebola Function hosted by the African society in Brisbane Queensland.
Launched in early 2014, Awaken the Haus is the eco-fashion label and on-line store of Brisbane-based fashion designer, Patricia Otto. Taking inspiration from her surroundings particularly her birth country Papua New Guinea, the mens’ and women Boho-style garments are made using sourced and sustainable fabrics. These include bamboo, linen, organic cotton and hemp. All garments are ethically produced in Brisbane.
Ms. Otto describes her clothing line as ‘relaxed fit and suitable for all ages’. The easy-to-wear range doubles as stylish with shirts, dresses and skirts created in classic shades of charcoal, steel and black.
Awaken the Haus follows the philosophy of sustainability. Hence, minimal wastage and fostering sustainable
relationships with marginalised communities are at the heart of design to the last stitch of production. The label sources artwork for its garments from artisans within the Ambunti District, located in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea.
The current Collection, made from both certified organic cotton and bamboo, features the artwork of Ambunti District artisan Aaron Kamdu. Ms. Otto met directly with Mr Kamdu to transfer his unique, handmade artwork to her garment designs. Such a collaboration has produced a clothing line that seeks to be environmentalfriendly and also gives back to the very community that it has drawn inspiration from.
The Leniata Legacy will be hosting the Pacific Runway in AUgist in Briabne and we encourage all PNG and Pacific designers to send us there interest by emailing legacystalent@ gmail.com.
You can check Awaken the Haus out at awakenthehaus.com.au, (instagram) awaken_the_haus and (facebook) Awaken the Haus.
THE Joint Provincial Planning and Budget Priorities Committee of the Northern Province (JPP&BPC) have made a cheque presentation of K500, 000 to the National Development Bank for the Northern Province District Credit Scheme (NPDCS).
This follows a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that was signed between the JPP&PBC and NDB last year at the opening of the NDB Popondetta Branch in Northern Province relating to the NPDCS.
The NPDCS has been established to provide appropriate and accessible rural loans to ordinary villagers to start or improve existing small income generating business enterprise in the rural areas of the Northern Province to enable them to play a more active role in the economic development of the Province whilst at the same time assist in improving their socio-economic lifestyle.
As per the MOA, NPJPP&BPC will provide an initial deposit of K2million as security deposit from the Governor’s discretionary funds of which K500, 000 will be deposited to
the Bank for Women in Business and 1.5 million Kina for the general District Credit Scheme. NDB will then apply its lending processes and allocate funding to borrowers who are unable to provide security of a type or in an amount which Commercial Banks would in normal course of its operations otherwise require.
A Screening Committee headed by the Governor, Hon. Gary Juffa, a women representative nominated by the JPP&BPC; a business community rep and a district commerce officer will collate and assess the loan applications before submitting to the Bank for vetting and approval.
Under the NPDCS the minimum loan amount will be K3, 000 for either business groups or individual borrowers, while the maximum loan will be K10, 000. Applications exceeding K10, 000 will be considered under the discretion of the NPJPP&BPC. NDB’s focus will be to ensure that there is equitable distribution of the funds so everyone can benefit from this credit scheme.
SIXTY inmates graduated with a Certificate Level 1 Personal Viability course at the Bomana Correctional Institution recently. The purpose of providing such training in the correctional facility is to re-orient inmates on the right pathway to one’s life and contribute to society in a positive approach.
The two weeks training not only has been offered to prisoners, it has played an important role in helping people from all walks of life and different backgrounds all over Papua New Guinea. It helps to align people towards a more constructive and purposeful way of life.
The Papa Sam Foundation has sponsored 360 inmates in Correctional Services nationwide to participate and learn from the Level 1 Personal Viability course provided by Entrepreneurial Development Training Centre (also known as EDTC).
The PV course, provided by EDTC, runs Personal Viability Business Scheme courses throughout the nation targeting participants from all ages and backgrounds.
The only way to free a person from the “prison” of their mind is to help a person
look within themselves to fi nd out all the talents they may have hidden away, and to make use of the important and special “Gold Mind” that each of us have. By doing this, a person can create a progressive pathway for themselves as an individual and even their family.
PV teaches beyond words written theoretically in a book, it is not simply a philosophy. PV teaches people to implement action learning confidently towards their life on a day-to-day basis.
PV reveals that there are always positive options to choose from, and from these choices a passageway for self-reliance and fi nancial independence can always be created.
Personal Viability Business Scheme Level 1-3, the 2014-updated version, is currently underway throughout the Nation. Contact our head office in Port Moresby on edtc_ pv@edtc.ac.pg or PH: 3230066 / 3112714 to register and attend these alternative and life changing trainings, available now. Upcoming course dates for Level 1 Personal Viability in NCD: 6th April, Lae: 23rd March, Mt Hagen: 6th April, Madang: 13th April.
AS ITS community obligation PNG Ports donated two of its used buses to the Ginigoada Foundation and Child Fund PNG yesterday.
Fleets and properties manager Joseph Kubul said programs run by the two NGOs are similar to the ones supported by PNG Ports and they believe that the donations would help to enhance and strengthen the work done to address some of the issues faced in the communities.
He said PNG Ports is happy to continue work and assist the community with what it can and this is part of their support.
PNG Port s have observed that though there are many NGOs coming onboard much is needed to fully achieve their goals in serving the people. These two organiza-
tions have achieved a lot in impacting the lives of its target people in the communities and as such PNG Ports is pleased to assist through the donation.
Manish Joshi, Child Fund PNG said the donation is a pleasant surprise to them and the support is really great and much appreciated by the organization.
He said such support from public and private sectors will ensure that program delivery and output is satisfactory. Child Fund PNG has been in the country for 20 years. It is established globally in 58 country’s assisting million of children with basic needs to enhance the lives of these children.
Ginigoada Foundation manager Pastor Mike Field said they are pleased to receive a donation like this as it would help to strengthen their work with help people.
stars
March 20 - April 19
Although every New Moon marks a period of stillness, this one accents the most sensitive angle of your chart. What’s more, it’s an eclipse, which indicates sudden and probably entirely unexpected changes. Knowing that, reflect on the past, the present, what works and what doesn’t. Then base future plans on those observations.
April 20 - May 19
Because you loathe it when others back out of plans at the last minute, you do all you can to keep your commitments. Now, however, you’re being cornered into making such changes, and in several situations. Go with the flow. You’ll soon realise that this is for the best.
May 21 - June 20
The time has come to rethink certain habits. You may not even notice these or, more importantly, how they prevent you from even considering new ideas or potential changes. This is ironic because of the twelve signs, you’re among the most inquisitive. ThatÕs why those habits need to be reviewed.
June 21 - July 21
Most Cancerians are a soft touch, especially when those they care about are struggling. Be wary, however, because with so much in transition, certain individuals are actually doing very well. They don’t need your help. It’s just what they’re involved in requires effort from them, and it’s that they’re complaining about.
July 22 - August 22
Long ago you learned to be tolerant of those who want things done in a particular manner. Yet now that somebody is being increasingly unreasonable, you’re both puzzled and losing your patience. Discuss this frankly with them. The odds are good you’ll learn there’s good reason for their seemingly outrageous demands.
August 23 - September 22
After weeks of being compelled to focus on various obligations, at long last you’re able to devote time to those close relationships that matter so much. Don’t be surprised changes are necessary. These, triggered by the current eclipsed New Moon are unsettling but, also, are exactly what’s needed.
September 23 - October 22
Trusting your intuition can be tricky. Still, during unsettled periods, it’s often best. But in one particular situation you’re dealing with somebody who wants hard facts and dismisses anything else. This may be somewhat dishonest, but if you can find a rational justification for your instincts, that will do the trick.
October 23 - November 22
There’s no avoiding the disruptive events triggered by the clash between Uranus and your ruling planet Pluto. Worrying as these seem, they’re breakthroughs, if in disguise. Knowing that, focus on what you can learn and, importantly, resist the temptation to restore previous arrangements. Unsettling as changes are, they’ll prove hugely beneficial.
November 23 - December 22
While you enjoy watching those who battle for control play the game, the variety of power struggle you’re now observing is both distasteful and disillusioning. Yet if you’re to have any say in arrangements, you must at least express your views. Do so clearly then bow out before anybody challenges you.
December 21 - January 19
Once you make a decision, you stick with it. This isn’t because you’re stubborn but, rather, you always investigate before committing. Even at your most thorough, you could never have anticipated how shakeups would alter everything. Don’t be embarrassed if you must make changes.
Everybody else will be doing it.
January 20 - February 17
Logic is useful when facing many issues. But the complexity and emotional components of those currently on your mind suggest your intuition will be more reliable. Besides, judging by the current alliance between Mercury and Neptune, you already have a strong sense of the best approach to take with these.
February 18 - March
Heavy-handed manoeuvres are always upsetting. While you’ve already been aware of these, the clash between Uranus and Pluto has turned them into a here-and-now concern. Unsettling and, perhaps, unfair as these seem, they aren’t all bad. They could, in fact, lead to changes as important as they are overdue.
POSITIONS VACANT
POSITIONS VACANT
MELBOURNE: Bangladesh allrounder Shakib Al Hasan says he'll be satisfied if the Tigers play their best cricket against India in Thursday’s Cricket World Cup quarter-final, even if it means losing.
Bangladesh progressed to their first quarter-final in World Cup history, memorably knocking out England and beating Scotland and Afghanistan on the way.
But Al Hasan, the world’s No.1 ranked all-rounder, is realistically ahead of what could be the biggest match in the country’s cricket history.
With anticipation at fever-pitch back home, Al Hasan says the side are blocking out any expectations that might weigh his side down. “On the sub-continent, people always do expect a lot of you,” he said.
“Win or lose, if we play our best cricket, that’s the key thing.”
The Tigers do have form when it comes to upsetting the giants of world cricket.
In 2007, Bangladesh shocked India in the group stage — a loss that contributed to India’s shock
exit at the group stage.
Al Hasan says the mood is good amongst the Bangladesh players, who all remembered their country's historic win at Port of Spain.
“It will be in our memory but it’s a new game and we all know it,’ he said.
“India is a very good side. They have world-class players and obviously it’s going to be hard for us.
“We know that and we’re up for the challenge. It’s a one off game, if we play our best cricket anything is possible.”
A crowd of over 80,000 people is possible for the meeting of two richly-supported sides. Al Hasan said he looked forward to the atmosphere but also threw his support behind retaining the smaller associate nations in future World Cups.
Rahul Dravid became the latest figure to endorse keeping teams such as Ireland and the United Arab Emirates at the tournament, despite plans from the ICC to cut participants from 14 to 10. “It’s up to the ICC ... they will take a wise decision,” Al Hasan said.
“If you want my opinion, I think if you want to globalise (cricket), you need to play more teams.”
SYDNEY: Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews says playing at the SCG is like being at home, as his team prepares to tackle South Africa there in today’s first cricket World Cup quarter final.
The Sri Lankans enjoyed great support at the SCG when they played co-host Australia in a recent pool game, with their boisterous and colourful fans making more noise than the locals.
“If you play at the MCG or SCG it’s like playing at home,” Mathews said at the SCG on Tuesday.
“Most of the Sri Lankans across Australia or across the world, they fly into Sydney with immense support for us, and we really enjoy playing in Sydney.”
While South Africa have lost all five of their previous World Cup knockout games, Sri Lanka appear to have a more successful formula, having finished runners-up in the last two tournaments.
Mathews said the key was not to put pressure on themselves and play positively and aggressively.
“I think that when you come to the knockout stages, most of the teams will think that you can’t afford to do mistakes or you’ll be out of the tournament,” Mathews said.
“That kind of attitude is hard to get rid of. You have to play good cricket, back ourselves and go out there and enjoy ourselves.”
Mathews said he hoped and prayed Kumar Sangakarra could score a fifth straight century in the tournament.
ADELAIDE: Shane Watson says being dropped from Australia's World Cup side lit something inside him.
Watson is set to bat in Australia's middle order at Adelaide Oval on Friday, when the tournament co-hosts face Pakistan in a quarter-final.
The burly allrounder was axed for the team's pool clash with Afghanistan in Perth on March 4 and admitted on Tuesday that he feared his Cup campaign was over. “It just lit something inside
me, I don’t want to go through that again,” Watson said.
“I know it’s going to hold me in good stead for the next year or couple of years hopefully, because I don’t want to feel like that again.
“I’m going to be doing everything I can to make sure I make the most of this opportunity now.” Watson won an instant recall for Australia’s next game against Sri Lanka at the SCG, where he clubbed 67 and looked a far more confident batsman.
Watson felt he was taking too many risks with the bat in the lead-up to getting dumped from the XI, but was close to turning the corner.
“I knew I hadn’t scored enough runs,” he said.
“It was unbelievably disappointing. I’d been dreaming of playing in this World Cup at home.”
Meanwhile, the 33-year-old suggested it was hard to know what to expect from Pakistan in the knockout fixture.
NRL
SYDNEY: Kieran Foran has pledged to give his all for Manly this season, after committing to NRL arch-rivals Parramatta for the following four years.
Manly’s worst fears were realised on Monday when Foran joined star halves partner Daly Cherry-Evans in agreeing terms to leave Brookvale at the end of this season.
However former Manly junior Foran insisted on Tuesday he has unfinished business at the Sea Eagles, the club he and Cherry-Evans led to the 2011 premiership, as it chases an 11th straight finals appearance.
“I guess from the club’s (Manly’s) point of view it is not something you would like to see but I'm glad its over,” said Foran of the pair’s contract talks.
“It is a great weight off our shoulders and I think we can both put our best foot forward now and move on and play our best footy.”
GOLD COAST: Gold Coast stars Greg Bird, Dave Taylor and Beau Falloon will all come straight back into the Titans’ NRL starting lineup after they were restored to first-team duties yesterday.
The trio, who have missed the opening two fixtures of the season since being stood down over alleged drug offences, were all named in the Titans’ team to play Newcastle on Sunday. Their inclusion came after the club restored them and outside
backs Kalifa Faifai Loa and Jamie Dowling following independent legal advice from Sydney-based QC Tony Bannon, who said the club should wait until the legal process has been resolved before determining what, if any, punishments to impose on the players. The return of State of Origin pair Bird and Taylor, as well as reigning Titans’ player of the year Falloon, will be a big boost to coach Neil Henry after his side was hammered 40-0 by Penrith last Saturday.
SPORTS schedules have been released for the Pacific Games in July and will see certain codes conduct their first Games before the Opening Ceremony on Saturday July 4.
The Taurama Indoor Sports complex will have Basketball begin its first games with Bisini hosting Soccer and Touch Rugby. Table Tennis will begin at the Caritas Technical Secondary School.
The Sir John Guise stadium will see the Rugby 7s, Rugby League 9s, Beach Volleyball, Hockey and Athletics begin on July 8 and ending on July 18
The Sir John Guise Indoor Complex will begin with Weightlifting on July 5, Powerlifting on July 8, the Basketball finals will be played on July 11 and 12, while Netball will begin on July 13. Volleyball begins on July 11 at the Taurama Aquatic Centre courts (BSP Arena) while Karate and Taekwondo will begin on July 13 and 15.
Swimming will begin on July 6 and will end on July 11 at the Taurama Aquatic
THREE types of ticket packages will be available on March 26 when tickets for the Pacific Games go on sale.
MARCH 26 will see tickets for the Pacific Games go on sale.
Minister for Sports and Pacific Games Justin Tkatchenko is delighted and said that it was fantastic that tickets would be going on sale soon as it not only mean the Games were nearing, but it also boosted the confidence of all concerned that the venues would be completed.
“The launch of the tickets signifies the confidence of all that venues will be completed and whether rain or shine, the work on the venues is progressing.
By MIRIAM ZARRIGATHE forthcoming Pacific Games is likely to see a rise in social issues among young adults. In anticipation of this the Pacific Games marketing unit, NCDC Youth Desk, Yumi Lukautim Mosbi office, Marie Stopes, and NCDC’s Health Division have joined forces to carry out various awareness programs to communities in the city.
Community Liaison Lawrence Martin said that the awareness was to ensure the perception of visitors and the participating countries in July would change.
“The awareness will assist in ensuring the residents of Port Moresby are well behaved while the Games are in progress, the communities are also allowed to be a part of the Community Host program which will see communities play host to a Pacific Island country teams during the Games,” Martin said.
NCDC Youth Desk coordinator
Rex Buka said the program will empower youths to also play a big part in the event.
Centre (BSP Arena). Bisini will be the largest venue and will see Cricket, Softball and Lawn Bowls begin their events on July 6 and ending on July 18. Sir Hubert Murray Stadium will see soccer dominate from day one till the finals on July 17 while Tennis and Squash will host their games at the POM Racquets Club from July 6 till July 17.
Caritas Technical Secondary School will see Body building on July 13 while Boxing will begin on July 14.
June Valley Shooting Range behind the PNG Gardner will see competition begin on July 6.
The packages include the Venue package, sports package, and the ultimate package. Each package varies and depends on what you as the spectator want. Games Organizing Committee CEO Peter Stewart said that the pricing was based on the demand, seating capacity, strength of the sports schedules, past win/loss record of the sport, price comparisons, accessibility and affordability of the event.
“650,000 tickets will go on sale the 28 sports, 14 venues will hold all the events with nine venues paying while the other five will be free,” Stewart said.
“The venue package will allow for the buyer to have unlimited access to the venue from day one to the final day, Sports package allows for the buyer to be able to attend their chosen sport throughout its duration, while the ultimate package will see the buyer have access to all venues, all sports with preferential seating, the package costs K5000 and includes both the
opening and closing ceremony,” Stewart added.
The lowest priced tickets will cost K10 for the nine paying venues of the Games Stewart said. Sports packages will be applicable to sports running on their own in an enclosed venue.
“Take for example Soccer, you can buy the sports package to watch only soccer for 16 days of games for K150,”Stewart added. The opening ceremony has been priced at K100 for the outer stands with the grand stand going for K200 Stewart said regardless of age all tickets are going for the price as stated and only children under 2 are free and will have to seat on their parents lap.
The tickets will be available from selected BSP outlets from March 26. Selected branches include Lae, Wewak, Madang, Mt Hagen, Goroka, Kokopo, Kimbe, Buka and Alotau.
Branches in Port Moresby will be Town, Harbour City, Boroko, Waigani Drive, Waigani, Vision City, and the Waterfront Place kiosks. In Lae Top Town and the Market will be available for ticket sales.
“I encourage everyone out there to go to your nearest BSP outlet and purchase your tickets, as I am sure all tickets will be sold out before the Games begin,” Minister Tkatchenko added. While preparing for the Games, I would also like to extend my support to the people of Vanuatu on the devastation that Cyclone Pam has wreaked havoc through the country, Minister Tkatchenko said.
“Vanuatu will need all our support and this is a setback on Team Vanuatu’s preparation for the Pacific Games but I look forward to the team’s arrival in July and we want them here and will ensure the Pacific Games Committee are supportive to the preparation of the team,” Minister Tkatchenko added.
Tickets will be sold in selected centres around the country including Lae, Mt Hagen, Wewak, Madang, Goroka, Kimbe, Buka and Alotau.
THE Pacific Games Organising Committees (GOC), the committee responsible for the staging of the 2015 Pacific Games is working around the clock to get the Games on time.
The GOC headed by chairperson Emma Waiwai says that the Committee are strategising on plans to stage the Games on schedule despite the wet
weather bring experienced in the city. Waiwai is confident plans will be in place for the official opening of the venues in June before the Games in July.
Minister for Sports and Pacific Games Justin Tkatchenko flayed statements from the Opposition Leader Don Polye and a senior citizen who stated the games would not be on time due to the wet weather hampering work.
RUGBY SEVENS
NAMATANAI District is set to explode with the staging of the inaugural Kabai Barbarians Sevens -Byron Chan Cup slated for April 17-19.
The tournament, an initiative of the Minister for Mining and Namatanai MP Byron Chan will be staged at Konos, Sentral Niu Ailan LLG.
The Member for Namatanai has ensured that there will be
high class action with a bonus of K10,000 for the Cup winner and K7000 for the runner-up amongst a host of cash prizes on offer. The Plate winner will get K6000 and runnerup K5000, the Bowl winner K3000 and runner-up K2000, the Shield winner K1 500 and a runner-up K1000.
Tournament vice-chairman
Trevor Kamaga said the tournament is only for village teams within the Namata-
nai District. “At this stage we have teams from all over the District indicating their interest in taking part,” Kamaga said. “This will be the first time Namatanai is staging such a tournament as in the past it has always been from the Kavieng District, and recently the Malangan Barbarians at the Lugagun Beach Oval,” he added.
Kamaga made reference to the technical support by
former Pukpuks George Pitalai, Ralph Pombi and Eremas Simba. “So far we confirmed up to 20 teams have indicated their interest but have yet to register,” he said. He added the only two teams that have registered to take part at this stage are Namatanai Kurutus and Konos Brothers. Kamaga said the Kurutus team has beefed up their lineup with the inclusion of 2013 World Cup qualifier Pukpuk
representative Bobby Bobby Bulumaris. Whilst the others that have indicated interest are Baso Brothers (East Coast Barok), St Joseph (West Coast Barok), St Mary’s (Karu), Mau Chiefs (Tandis), Norths United, Lemesong Brothers (Konos), Timikidu Brothers, Sominum Brothers, Tanga Titens, Namatanai Brothers, Namatanai Busman, Hilolom Wallabys, Namatanai Urban, West Coast Kabanut, Peter
June’s Lasiki Barbarians and hosts Kabai Barbarians. He said the team registration is K500. “There will be no cash payment accepted,” he added. Interested teams are to pay through the Kanai Barbarians BSP Kavieng account number 7002820244. Interested teams wanting more information or want to register should contact the tournament chairman Polly Waringin.
CRICKET
THE School Kriket Program is igniting employment avenues for underprivileged youths in the country apart from its main agenda.
The program is sponsored by the Bank of South Pacific.
One fine example is young John Manai, 20, based in Lae.
According to Rodney Maha, the Regional Cricket Manager for Lae, the program has enabled Manai, to be employed as a Cricket Development Officer. “John (Manai) is a young
and enthusiastic person who has been actively involved in the School Kriket program since he was at Omili Primary School in Lae,” Maha said.
“He is now employed full time as a development officer based in Lae rolling out the School Kriket program in schools in the city since the launch was done recently for this year.
As part of his job, he is able to identify new and young cricket talents in the schools in the city as well as helping Cricket PNG in a big way as,”
Maha said. “He learnt the game through the Kriket Program while he was a student at Omili Primary and now he is conducting the program for other students.
This is a good story as it shows the School Kriket Program has opportunities for employment as well.”
Manai said he is extremely privileged for the opportunity given to him.
“After my mother passed away, I left school in 2013 in Grade 10 due to school fee problems as well and grew up
living on the streets of Lae for some years.
“Rodney met me at Omili Primary School when he came to the school to roll out the program and I had assisted him.
It was then he recognised my potential and gave me the privilege to work for the sport which I have always had the enthusiasm for.
“I like my position as it helps me focused on doing something good for the community and I get to meet people as well,” he added.
BY PETER SEVARA JR SOCCER
ENDING off round one in a low note has not subdued the Manus Provincial Government sponsored Admiralty Football Club to believe, winning their first ever match, 1-0 over Besta FC in Lae on Saturday.
With the recruitment process involving the bulk of the Manus soccer team that took on Team Madang in the grand final in the 6th PNG Games in Lae, Team Manager, Percy Mataio believes the team will finish off round two and the season on a high note.
“We are mindful that the bulk of the team is taken from a provincial level, the Besta cup in the New Guinea Islands region and 6th PNG Games in Lae. Compared to the others big soccer provinces like Lae and Madang, our boys in AFC lack that competitive level.
For us it’s about giving the boys in the province a chance to groom themselves through experience at the national level,” Mataio said.
Mataio however was optimistic that the boys will pull through and have chance to rub shoulders with a more experienced and make a respectable finish for the season.
“We are missing the services of Roniel Igens after he left for Lae to mourn his brother who was involved in a tragic shooting incident in Lae.
He has played a huge role while with the team but we’ve managed to pull through after his loss. However we have our skipper, Michael Foster who is the most experienced player in the team who can guide our boys.
Foster has the services of Agi Moses, Eliud Fugre and Kapret Tingut who have been fantastic for the team. Mataio said going into round two with the experience of
Foster is crucial but they have the added zest of having a couple of their boys in contention for a space in the Under 23 train on squad for the Pacific Games in goal keeper Leka Kale, flankers Rodney Mobiha and Billy Ndramen.
RUGBY UNION
RECENTLY turned 23 year old Eugene Tokavai is amongst a host of young talent preparing for their biggest tournament of their lives.
The Hong Kong Sevens slated for March 28-30 is the showpiece event of the World Sevens Series.
If the Puma Energy Papua New Guinea Sevens team thought the Westpac Stadium in Wellington was en eye-opener during the New Zealand Sevens, the electric atmosphere and crowd in Hong Kong will be doubled. The tournament will come and go so quickly and before you know it you will be just another statistic.
Tokavai from Kaselok Village, New Ireland and Bali Island, West New Britain, said the New Zealand experience put them in their place and whilst they are not there yet, it won’t be for the lack of trying.
Based out of Rabaul, Tokavai said the team is growing with the experience.
“It is hard for some people to understand but we have a working combination going and it is only being strengthen each time we play in tournaments and get to know each other better,” he said.
Rugby sevens doesn’t get the attention it deserves from the National Government, but it is serving to promote raw talent throughout the country.
Tokavai said he celebrated his birthday on Friday in camp at the PNG IPA campus with his ‘rugby family’.
“We had a birthday cake and something light to eat…we had a good laugh,” he added.
Although just out of his teens, Tokavai is the vicecaptain and one of the more experienced players, as he started his representative duties as an 18 year old in 2010.
The bottom line
PNGFA needs these documents signed as a requirement that all criteria’s must be set and forwarded in a weeks advance to the FIFA board to deliberate on.
The PNG Football Association has been following up on these departments but nothing has been signed as yet and time is running out.
If the necessary documentation is in place, it will support PNG to become the first Pacific Island nation to host a 11-a-side women’s FIFA World Cup.
INTRUST SUPER CUP
RUGBY LEAGUE
THE SP Hunters will be pushing hard for their third straight win when they head to Brisbane for the round three Intrust Super Cup match against East Tigers on Saturday.
Coach Michael Marum knows he has to give his team the best preparation possible as the Tigers, the 2014 grand finalists, will be their toughest opponent to date. Victories over Souths Logan Magpies, 40-18 in the season opener away, and then last week’s hard-fought 30-26 result against Redcliffe Dolphins at home, has given the Hunters the perfect start to the season.
The Hunters lead the 14-team competition on four points together with Norths Devils and Wynnum Manly Seagulls, but the PNG side is in pole position because of superior percentage – points for and against.
But it’s early days and they could find themselves reshuffled to the middle of the premiership table if they drop this game and measures are being taken to ensure the Hunters enjoy the top spot for as long as possible.
EUGENE TokavaiAway matches can be quite taxing as experienced in the Hunters debut season last year but
The sport of rugby is named after Rugby School, where the game was first played.
having the benefit of one year under their belt should give them a better idea.
The team travels to Brisbane on Friday for Saturday’s game at the Langlands Park.
East Tigers sit in sixth position with two points but are a quality side that was a nemesis to the Hunters last year, beating them at Kalabond following a draw when away in Round five.
Marum has made some changes the notable being the reshuffle of man-of-the-match last week, Kato Ottio who started at centre to the back row.
That change allows for centre Thompson Teteh back to the starting side on the left while three-try hero Adex Wera will slot in at right.
Another change is Henry Wan at prop while Noel Zeming could make a return from injury as he has been named in the 19-member traveling party.
The full team is: Stargroth Amean, Bland Abavu, Thompson Teteh, Adex Wera, Edward Goma, Israel Eliab ©, Roger Laka, Henry Wan, Wartovo Puara Jr, Esau Siune, Kato Ottio, Brandy Peter, Adam Korave.
Interchange: Ase Boas, Ate Bina, Willie Minoga, Warren Glare, Noel Zeming, Jayjay Garrison (two to be omitted).
The biennial 16 team event will put PNG on the world football map and present huge opportunities for exposure and recognition never experienced before.
Papua New Guinean’s chance for a life time opportunity to host a FIFA World Cup event hangs in the balance due to some Government department’s inability to comply with National Executive Council (NEC) endorsement.
PNGFA is bidding to host the 2016 women’s Under 20 World Cup. The outstanding documents revealed to Post-Courier are Immigration, Foreign Exchange, Commercial Rights, Communication and IT. The PNG Football Association office revealed that these documents were still not submitted and this may hamper PNG chances of hosting the million kina event.
The FIFA deadline is two days away – March 19th. The FIFA board will deliberate on the bid on March 19. PNGFA office revealed that little information has surfaced despite numerous efforts trying to get these departments to sign.
The Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has endorsed and gave his undertaking that his Government will support the bid. However some Government departments are yet to sign the required documents.
portunity to host a FIFA World Cup event hangs in the balance due to some Government department’s inability to comply with National Executive Council (NEC) endorsement.
PNGFA is bidding to host the 2016 women’s Under 20 World Cup.
The outstanding documents revealed to PostCourier are Immigration, Foreign Exchange, Commercial Rights, Communication and IT.
The PNG Football Association office revealed that these documents were still not submitted and this may hamper PNG chances of hosting the million kina event.
The FIFA deadline is two days away – March 19th. The FIFA board will deliberate on the bid on March 19.
PNGFA office revealed that little information has surfaced despite numerous efforts trying to get these departments to sign.
The Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has endorsed and gave his undertaking that his Government will support the bid. However some Government departments are yet to sign the required documents.
CONTINUED PAGE 59
name
t heir for their R3 Lang lands Park on Saturday
The SP Hunters name their lineup for their Intrust Super Cup R3 match with East Tigers at Langlands Park on Saturday.
Starg roth
Bland
Adex
Stargroth Amean, Bland Abavu, Thompson Teteh, Adex Wera, Edward Goma, Israel Eliab ©, Roger Laka, Henry Wan, Wartovo Puara Jr, Esau Siune, Kato Ottio, Brandy Peter, Adam Korave.
Edward Goma , Israel Eliab La k a , Henr y Wartovo P uara Kato Peter, Ad am I nterchange: A se Boas, Willie M i noga, Garr ison
Interchange: Ase Boas, Ate Bina, Willie Minoga, Warren Glare, Noel Zeming, Jayjay Garrison (two to be omitted).
See
