Price war on rice begins

By BOSORINA ROBBY

 

DESPITE 19 brands of rice being available locally, the price of this staple has not fallen, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission said, The National reports.

It said, instead, rice prices had risen in most urban and semi-urban households, which, in most cases, was rice supplied by Trukai Industries Ltd, the main distributor and miller.

An ICCC report stated that the declaration of Trukai's Roots Rice to be price-monitored was because that brand "is traditionally consumed by low to middle income earners and is currently the leading brand in the market".

"Any price changes would lead to price increases on other rice brands."

The report said the setup of other companies had not led to a fall in prices of the Trukai brand.

It said prices had increased to match the price imposed by Trukai.

ICCC commissioner and chief executive officer Dr Billy Manoka told the Ekonomics Society forum that the increasing competition in the rice market had not translated into falling retail prices for consumers in recent years.

He said the ICCC "is maintaining a vigilant eye for collusion among wholesalers and importers".

He said the ICCC moved away from direct price control to factory gate price monitoring of rice, flour and sugar in the mid-2000s as there was some sort of competition.

"However, competition does not appear to be working as we view that retail prices have continued to increase over recent years not withstanding falling factory gate prices for some of these products".

"The commission has commenced monitoring the wholesale and retail prices of all brands apart from the factory gate prices of the products that are milled in PNG," he said.

An online survey into 32 consumers' buying power revealed that despite being expensive, Trukai has always been the trusted brand for them (12/32) and they kept on buying it, preferring its taste and quality.

Nine respondents preferred the Trukai Jasmine rice because it is cheaper than the other Trukai brands and tasted better, offering a healthier choice to Roots Rice (8/32) while three chose to buy Brown Rice and other rice brands.

Showtime tomorrow as NARI celebrates 14th birthday

Caption: School children being shown analytical services provided by NARI at last year's innovation show.

 

By JAMES LARAKI of NARI

 

The PNG National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) turned 14 years old on Monday.

Fourteen years on, NARI has been in the forefront, promoting and undertaking agricultural research for sustainable development.

The institute has made dedicated contribution to innovative agricultural development in the country through scientific research, knowledge creation and information exchange.

During this short period, the institute has been recognised nationally and internationally as the leading research organisation of high development relevance to Papua New Guinea.

To commemorate its 14^th anniversary, the institute is hosting an 'Agricultural Innovations Show' at the Sir Alkan Tololo Research Centre, 10 Mile – Bubia, outside Lae, tomorrow.

Director-General Dr Raghunath Ghodake said the event was organised around the theme "Investing in Innovative Agriculture for Prosperity".

Dr Gohdake said the theme reaffirmed NARI's view that progress through innovative agricultural development was essential if PNG was to realise Vision 2050 and become a wealthy and prosperous nation.

"The nation has the need, great potential and vast opportunity to prosper through innovative agriculture, and hence the focus on investing in innovative agriculture," he said.

"The theme is in line with NARI's efforts in encouraging consistent investment in agriculture, particularly in research, to develop technologies and innovations which are crucial agents in innovative agriculture and rural development.

"With the economy projected to grow at 8.5 % and the LNG and other related projects coming on stream, PNG has a more favourable environment and opportunities now than ever before for all stakeholders to make positive contribution to innovative agricultural development in general, and to research, science and technology, in particular."

Since its inception in 2007, the agricultural innovations show has become a popular annual event to recognise and value the importance of innovations in agricultural development, and create and promote awareness on the significant role of research, science and technology in innovative agricultural and rural development.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Paru Aihi will be the chief guest while the guest of honour will be Morobe Governor Luther Wenge.

On the occasion of the 14^th anniversary, Dr Ghodake acknowledged the invaluable support from the government of PNG, AusAID, European Union, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (AVIAR) and key collaborators and partners locally and abroad.

European Union project workshop at NARI

Caption: Participants of the workshop at the Sir Alkan Tololo Research Centre – Bubia, outside Lae.

 

By JAMES LARAKI of NARI

 

An inception workshop is underway this week at the National Agricultural Research Institute headquarters in Lae to develop and plan activities of a mega project to be implemented in three Western Pacific countries.

The European Union (EU) -supported project "Generation and adaptation of improved agricultural technologies to mitigate climate change-imposed risks to food production within vulnerable smallholder farming communities in Western Pacific countries" is implemented by NARI in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), Solomon Islands, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), Vanuatu and the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU) of Austria.

Action coordinator Dr Workneh Ayalew said the inception workshop indicated the start of the implementation phase of the project after it was officially launched in Port Moresby in March this year.

Dr Workneh said the objectives of the inception workshop were to: apprise participants of the planned project activities; canvas opinions of key stakeholders on the major activities and on selection of suitable target communities; and affirm list of activities to be undertaken during year one of the project.

Dr Worknew, who is also in charge of the livestock component of the project, said the workshop was expected to create common understanding among key stakeholders on the objectives, major activities and expected results of the project, and administrative arrangements.

"It also expected to collate background and baseline information about target communities and related actions," he added.

The project, which comes under the EU science and technology programme, is to mitigate climate change risks associated to food security and livelihoods for vulnerable smallholder farming communities in the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

It is aimed at improving food production capacity of smallholder farming communities in the three countries, where climate change-induced problems are becoming significant threats to agricultural production and productivity.

The main focus of this project is to identify appropriate types of water technologies and alternative crops/crop varieties and livestock/livestock feeding systems to help sustain and improve food production under drought, excess precipitation and saline soil conditions.

The project, to be implemented over a five-year period, will cover 11 vulnerable sites in the three countries, covering about 100 households per site.

This will eventually lead to about 2.4 million smallholder crop-livestock mixed farmers.

More than 20 participants comprising representatives from the Delegation of EU to PNG, NARI, MAL, DARD, Boku, World Vision Pacific development group and community representatives are in attendance.

Similar workshops are planned to be held in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu this month to start the implementation phase of the project in these countries.

Importance of training in food safety standards

By SOLDIER BURUKA of DAL

 

Papua New Guinea needs to strengthen its efforts in promoting food safety standards and improving its level of compliance to sanitary and phytosanitary measures.

Like other developing countries, PNG is facing increased challenges due to globalisation and a competitive international environment and must work with relevant international bodies that govern international safety standards.

This was the message given to participants attending a training program on the quality management system auditors and basic tools for food safety.

The training is the first of its kind and has attracted participants from various organisations from the private and government sectors.

In a speech delivered on behalf of Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), the director for science and technology branch, Ian Onaga, said as PNG geared up for trade liberalisation, it needed to adjust to cope and respond proactively to challenges of globalisation and follow suitable trade protocols.

Onaga said PNG must work together with relevant organisations to strengthen the multicultural trading system that must ensure fairness and equity.

The setting up of internationally recognised food safety systems is a sure way of ensuring fairness and equity in trade, in addition to securing better recognition.

PNG is a member of various international agencies and has an obligation to undertake the necessary steps for monitoring and ensuring compliance for the safety of its people.

"It is very important to strengthen PNG's capacity to be more competent in the field of quality and safety. For safeguarding on the long term environment and health of consumers, government must develop a participatory approach to compliance."

Onaga said the training would help to ensure that PNG could benefit within the importing and exporting channels, and boost the capability to access and control the possible risks to the environment and human health situations.

Participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide safety food and ascertain quality of food.

The training, which will run from May 2-13, has been made possible under the K11 million EU-funded project "Trade Related Assistance" (EU-TRAP) to PNG, supervised by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and implemented by the Trade Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Under component 2, the two-week training is being facilitated and managed by the newly set- up Agrofood Safety and Codex PNG Unit within DAL.

This unit, located in the science and technology branch, has been one of the main beneficiaries of the EU-TRAP assistance since 2009.

Ian Erskine, an international certified trainer and facilitator from ACI Global company, based in Australia who has vast knowledge, skills and experience in the field of quality management systems auditing and food safety aspects of the entire food chain, has been engaged to conduct the training in PNG.

Most of the participants are in one way or another responsible for addressing the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) compliance issues in the country in an attempt to promote trade facilitation and protect the health of consumers.

EU-TRAP management and DAL hope that after this intensive training, PNG will benefit tremendously once the trainees apply their new knowledge and skills to promote SPS compliance issues.

Weekly coffee market report for Papua New Guinea

Please lick to enlarge

Greens leader vows to probe undersea mining

By PATRICK TALU

 

THE Australian Greens leader, Bob Brown, said he will push for an Australian senate inquiry into the impact of the world's first undersea mining operated by Nautilus Minerals for its Solwara 1 project in the Bismarck Sea, The National reports.

Brown had just left Port Moresby after attending PNG Greens Party launch in Madang, where he met with Environment Minister Benny Allan and representatives of the PNG Greens party.

Brown told Radio Australia upon his return home early this week that he was worried about the environmental impact of the Solwara 1 gold and copper project on PNG's north coast, the world's first deep sea mine.

Brown said the project was using new robot technologies to mine the sea floor.

"This is something that's going to, if it works there, and Singaporean vessels are currently involved in experimenting with that, extend to oceans elsewhere around the world and of course, the dumping from the process metals there is going to be left on the sea floor as well.

"It's a very, very worrying direction for mining to be taking," he said.

The deep sea mining project is set to begin production in 2013 following the official contract signing between the company and the state's nominee, Petromin Holdings, in March to finalise details to start work.

The project is said to set the benchmark as the world's first deep sea mining project with capital investment of about US$387 million, which is almost K1 billion in the 20 years of its lifespan.

Nautilus' exploration results have shown that there are high grade mineralised copper deposits 1,600m below sea level and extending to a maximum depth of 52m below the seafloor.

The exploration and drilling results show that the site is expected to produce around 800,000 tonnes of copper and up to 200,000 ounces of gold a year.

It is speculated that the project begins a new factor in the mining industry with the start of the first deep sea mining project.

Petromin, who owns 30% of the project will be meeting the costs on its own strengths while Nautilus, as the operator will put up 70%.

 

Chan: Free press means democracy

 

By BOSORINA ROBBY

 

MEDIA freedom comes with great responsibility to be honest and fair in reports and to call attention when democracy is failing, Sir Julius Chan says, The National reports.

Speaking at Media Freedom Day celebrations in Port Moresby yesterday, the New Ireland governor challenged a gathering of media practitioners, partners and University of Papua New Guinea journalism students to use the free press to preserve democracy.

"For democracy to continue to flourish, we must promote freedom of the press," Sir Julius said.

"You must use that power to constantly insist that the government and its institutions, particularly the people's parliament that abysmally fails in its constitutional responsibilities, must fulfil its obligation to operate in open, transparent and accountable ways."

Sir Julius said the power of a free press "is to create and sustain democracy, freedom, respect and the God-given right to dignity for all human beings".

"But, on the other hand, it is an equally great responsibility. With your voice, there is the possibility of abuse of power.

"You must never become a tool of special interests or a particular political party or ideology.

"You must avoid slander, rumour, and unsubstantiated accusations and ensure the protection of the rights of people," he said.

Sir Julius said the twin challenges of power and responsibility of a free press had not led to the abuse of its power as the media had tried to act responsibly in serving the people.

He said since independence, the country had experienced and adhered to forms of democracy, progress and development that "did not actually achieve the substance of change in moving the country forward".

"This is where the free press needs to step in to make people aware of the failures and help in doing a better job.

"Let me say, at the onset, that I have taken some responsibility. I have been in positions of power. I have led this country. I have been several times finance minister and I freely acknowledge that on my watch, as on the watch of others who have led this country, our people have not really moved forward.

"This is not idle rhetoric. We need to open our eyes and the press, above all others, has the power to open our eyes. And, if we open our eyes, what do we see?" he asked.

Kua: Teine is people’s leader

Captions: Teine goes home...Martin Teine (white shirt) and mourners from his Endugla tribe awaiting the casket containing the remains of his late dad, Joe Mek Teine, as it was brought from a chartered plane. The casket, received by acting Prime Minister Sam Abal, was later taken to the Dicksons oval for public viewing.-Nationalpics by ZACHERY PER

 

THE late Chimbu politician Joe Mek Teine has been described as a leader who stood up for the grassroots people, The National reports. 

President of PNG Law Society Kerenga Kua said yesterday that Teine was a man who forfeited so much of his own career development to stay back in Chimbu to serve his people as an informal leader until he was elected in the 2007 national elections.

Teine was a former lawyer, member of Kundiawa-Gembogl and Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) chairman at the time of his passing.

Teine began his career as a lawyer, practising as a prosecutor and later as a private practitioner establishing Joseph Mek Teine Lawyers in Mt Hagen and Chimbu from 1989 to 1994.

Kua said the late Teine's expertise and wisdom as a lawyer were immediately recognised by the government when he was appointed as CLRC chairman.

"Teine immediately used that position to initiate a review of the Sorcery Act which has been overlooked by successive leaders as unimportant."

Kua said: "But Teine saw that sorcery was one issue that was undermining the social fabric and human capital of this country.

"He also saw it as an institutional abuse of basic human rights against the weak and defenceless members of PNG society. Teine made it a priority to have a nationwide review with the goal of strengthening the Act.

"It was in the midst of this review that he passed away. It is a tragedy to the people of PNG, especially those underprivileged members of society, who have, in the past, and will in the future; suffer, as a result of our brutal belief in sorcery."

Kua said the legal profession had been very proud of the fact that it had produced leaders in so many key government departments and the public and private sector.

Teine's other distinguished roles in PNG included being a director of the coffee board, director of Kundiawa General Hospital, rugby league chairman of Simbu Warriors board, Simbu Chamber of Commerce chairman, Waghi Valley Golf Club president, Coffee Exporter council member and PNG National Party national coordinator.

"The PNG Law Society takes this opportunity to convey its condolences to his wife Dala, his children Emmanuel, Julianne, Johnny, Quina, the Enduka tribe and the people of Kundiawa-Gembogl, Chimbu province," Kua said.

Guinness challenges Bulolo people to take responsibility

Caption: Peter Guiness laying down the law on yesterday

 

The basic cornerstone to a peaceful and law abiding community begins in the family unit.

This was the challenge Morobe provincial police commander, chief superintendent Peter Guinness laid down for the people of Mumeng in the Bulolo district who had gathered to witness the launch of their district bulldozer in Bangalum yesterday.

Guinness provided the response following comments from the crowd wanting to ascertain what police action had been taken regarding the weekend ethnic outbreak and other law and order incidents over the last few months.

According to Morobe's top police officer, lawlessness in society was a responsibility for every citizen in any given locality and should not be thrust upon law enforcement agencies alone.

Following the two deaths that came about as a result of payback intentions, Guinness urged the crowd to seriously think in terms of the consequences of any actions or thoughts prior to carrying them out.

"Think about your family before you give in to the pressures of other people or joining other groups.

"Ask yourself who will look after your sons?

"Who will take care of your wives and care for your daughters before deciding to join unlawful activities?"

Guinness said the most- recent ethnic situation and the many other similar incidents seen in Bulolo were a result of youths not having respect for the law and for society at large.

"Where do these values start?

"They start with you and me as responsible adults, we have the responsibility to teach them – our children and young ones - the values of respect for society, respect for the rule of law and respect for life."

Referring to the two deaths, Guinness urged the people not to waste their lives in vain for something that could so easily have been avoided had the two men not tried to payback or get involved.

He said it was very clear there was a shortage of police men and women across the country and therefore urged the people to take it upon themselves to do the right things and exercise more responsibility starting in the home and family in order to give themselves and the communities they lived in a chance for the better.

"We are our own worst enemies.

"We create incidents and expect the police and other law-enforcement agencies to fix the problems that we have failed to be proactive about.

"If we are serious about maintaining the rule of law and order in our societies, then we should start in our homes, our clans our tribes and our communities now."

Greater partnerships and dialogue needed for tangible development and progress

Caption: Minister Pundari receiving a bilum from the women of Bangalum in appreciation for attending the launching 

 

Greater partnerships, constructive dialogue and honest discussions were the key messages given to the people of Mumeng and especially the Middle Watut communities during the launching of a dozer for the Mumeng LLG.

This was given by Mining Minister,  John Pundari to the people who were gathered to witness the occasion including, the Bulolo district administration, Mumeng local level government representatives,  people of Middle Watut and union president, Rueben Mete,  were gathered at Bangalum to witness the launching yesterday.

The minister was responding to calls from Mete regarding sedimentation issues affecting the Watut River and potential litigation action against the Hidden Valley Mine by the Bulolo District.

Pundari told the people gathered that there was nothing wrong with serving the interests and fighting for the needs of the people where genuine national interest was concerned.

"Taking up a cause for the interests of communities is an honourable thing to do provided our intentions are genuine – but also taking into consideration that we need to sit down with concerned stakeholders and consider what the bigger picture is," he said.

The minister's comments were made following similar sentiments raised by Bulolo MP Sam Basil for more community consultation to forge a better and more-constructive path forward that would ultimately be decided by the people whether or not to pursue litigation or opt for infrastructure project developments.

Based on these sentiments, Pundari committed to meeting with 10 representatives, comprising five from the Watut union, five from the Mumeng LLG, including acting Bulolo district administrator, Tae Guambalek, Bulolo MP Sam Basil, Morobe Governor Luther Wenge and MMJV representatives to meet with Mineral Resources Authority, Department of Environment and Conservation and the minister in Port Moresby on May 11.

"Bearing in mind that projects like these come with sacrifice, we need to be able to sit down and face up to each other and these concerns in order find the right answers," Pundari said.

"It is our responsibility as the regulators to ensure that we are minimising the impacts to the extent that our people's livelihoods are not impacted and at the same time so that the operators of projects such as the Hidden Valley mine can operate without disruption in order for all of us to enjoy and maximise the benefits that projects of this scale can bring.

"Yes, there will be issues, yes there will be obstacles, but there are ways of overcoming them and that is what we should be focusing on as responsible leaders with the heart for our people and this country."

The planned meeting in Port Moresby will enable all key stakeholders to convene at a proper forum and "get the facts straight" regarding the Watut River concerns of sedimentation that have been raised in the media recently in order to find a better path to progress.

Hidden Valley mine to provide K30, 000 diesel fuel for Mumeng dozer

 

 Caption:Mining Minister Hon John Pundari officially cuts the ribbon signifying the launching of the D3 bulldozer for Mumeng LLG.

 

Hidden Valley Mine will supply K30 000 worth of fuel assistance towards helping the Mumeng local level government's (LLG) district services improvement programme.

The undertaking was made in Sambio yesterday by Hidden Valley community affairs manager, Stanley Komunt, witnessed by Minister for Mines, Hon John Pundari, Bulolo MP Sam Basil, Mumeng LLG representatives and the people of Mumeng during the launching of the districts bulldozer – a continuation of Basil's capacity-building programme for the six LLGs in Bulolo district.

Komunt said the commitment from HVJV to help provide K30, 000 worth of fuel to the district was made after HVJV approached the MP and offered to partner with the district following numerous community requests, so that road access into the middle Watut areas could be re-established.

The bulldozer's first job will be to help –re-negotiate access for the only existing road into the middle Watut from Bangalum Bridge after a number of landslips had rendered the road impassable for vehicles about four years ago.

This would enable the communities living in the area to have much-needed and easier access through vehicle movements to the main highway as well as provide company access when delivering on planned community and regional development programmes.

Pundari commended Hidden Valley mine and MP Basil for coming together to help deliver services to the people of Mumeng LLG and Middle Watut.

"When a leaders' heart is in the right place, tangible developments occur and the people see real service delivery," he said.

The Mining Minister also acknowledged the Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare and his government for ensuring that all 89 districts were given their district support improvement programme (DSIP) funds, regardless of political alliances, opposition or government.

"Real leaders always place national interest and the needs of the people of this country at the forefront because they are mandated to do so by the people," he said,

Basil acknowledged the minister's presence and acceptance to attend the launching, including MMJV and the community for making time to attend.

 Currently, people of the Middle Watut walk very long distances, sometimes, travelling over two days before they reach the main highway or the river further below where they can then get canoes and travel downstream.

The recent fuel assistance will provide the basis for using the districts bulldozer to start work that will hopefully open much-needed access again for the people living along the middle Watut areas.

Madang governor blames governmentt and developers of Pacific Marine Industrial Zone

 

By JEFFREY ELAPA

 

THE national government and developers of the controversial Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) have failed to address many outstanding issues before proceeding with the project, Madang Governor James Gau said, The National reports.

He said although he supported the PMIZ as a major investment and revenue generation initiative for the province, he did not agree with the manner in which the project was "bulldozed by the state".

Gau claimed the state had failed to involve the provincial government, other stakeholders and landowners in all the consultative processes.

He said the national government had also failed to carry out education and awareness programmes, outlining all benefits and impacts, before kicking off the project.

"How can the second tier of government and customary custodians of the land be left out of the entire project?" he asked.

"This is not right. The provincial government and the people should be involved in all consultative processes.

"Important information has not been disseminated to the people. The people are still confused," he added.

Gau voiced concern over the state's failure to provide environmental impact study reports.

He said the environmental study report was important for "all parties concerned to be informed of how well the environment will be protected and how industrial wastes will be controlled".

He said operations of RD Tuna were already emitting a foul smell that hung over the area.

He said work should proceed as planned but many important issues had not been followed and "that is the concern for the provincial government and the people of Madang".

"If the government is concerned, it should carry out more education and awareness and the dissemination of any information should be clear and precise.

"It needs to involve the provincial government and landowners in any consultative processes and, finally, make the environmental impact plan available," Gau said.

 

Probe on Baki reveals major flaws

 

THE prime minister and national executive council may have erred in suspending former police commissioner Gari Baki, an independent investigation has found, The National reports.

The independent investigation committee had delved into the matter and presented its report to cabinet.

The contents of the report would be an embarrassment to Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare and the government which had suspended Baki, claiming that he had misled cabinet in asking for K10 million for operations in the LNG project area.

The committee's report, a copy of which had been obtained by The National, stated in part that:

*It was unable to find any evidence to conclusively uphold the allegation that Baki had "deliberately misled NEC;

*There was no written record of Baki's verbal briefing to cabinet on Oct 28 last year; and

*NEC should not, unless in very urgent and special circumstances, allow verbal submissions.

According to the report, the prime minister had received two different sets of advice, one provided by Baki on Oct 28 last year and another by Peter Graham on Oct 29 last year.

"On the basis of the two differing sets of information, it appears that NEC had concluded that the information provided by Esso Highlands Ltd was accurate; effectively rendering Baki's advice inaccurate and that Baki 'had deliberately misled' the prime minister and NEC," the committee said in its report.

On Oct 28 last year, Baki was summoned to appear and brief cabinet on the security issues at the LNG project sites. He did and pleaded for financial support.

Baki advised that two sections of the police mobile unit, deployed at Gobe to investigate an arson case, had to withdraw because of lack of logistical and technical support.

The former top cop, in his briefing, stated that Esso Highlands could not assist because investigating and apprehending suspects would involve police venturing into isolated local territory known to police as heavily armed with modern weapons.

The Gobe deployment was not long term and only involved investigating the burning of heavy equipment allegedly by locals.

The NEC approved a K10 million funding to provide additional support to police the project sites.

The following day, Graham requested and was granted an opportunity to make a presentation to Sir Michael.

Graham informed the prime minister, among other issues, that the police mobile unit had pulled out of the southern area of the LNG project and that they could not continue operations and had ceased work.

He further indicated to the prime minister that certain operational costs, associated with the police deployment, were paid for by Esso Highlands through an MoU with the constabulary.

The investigation revealed that following Graham's presentation, Sir Michael formed an opinion that Baki had misled NEC in his briefing the previous day.

The NEC, at a special meeting on Nov 9 last year, suspended Baki and set up the committee to investigate the matter.

The committee found that Baki was not involved in the decision to withdraw the police personnel.

It was a tactical decision by ground commanders "to withdraw and regroup" once the unit was better equipped and resourced.

The mobile squad withdrew last Oct 23 and the contractor withdrew five days later. However, by 1800 hours the same day (Oct 28, 2010), the police mobile unit was re-inserted after NEC intervened.

Graham was not aware of the move as, on that day, he was briefing the prime minister that police mobile personnel had been re-deployed elsewhere.

The committee found that the real reason for the withdrawal of CCJV workers was the alleged careless and negligence by the company resulting in the death of two people, a fact the committee found "odd and regrettable" that Graham had not highlighted in his briefing to the prime minister on Oct 29.

The investigating team included Personnel Management secretary John Kali as chairman, Nemo Yalo, PEA president Michael Malabag and Allan Bird.

The committee started its investigations on Nov 29 last year and finalised its report after three months.

It was presented to cabinet for deliberation early last month.

Amet is not in fair weather

The Opposition has come to the defence of Sumkar MP, Ken Fairweather, who has been subjected to racial remarks - courtesy of Attorney General, Sir Arnold Amet.

Leader of PNG PartyBelden Namah said for a so-called "highly-respected Christian leader and former Chief Justice to stoop so low with highly racial slurs is totally unbecoming and demeaning of a Knight".

"Leveling racial slur to a senior naturalised citizen who has contributed immensely to the development and advancement of Karkar Island and Papua New Guinea as a whole, is unwarranted, unfortunate and most regrettable," Namah said.

"Mr Fairweather is a long-time businessman and owns the Wakilon and Kawailo plantations on Karkar Island, where Sir Arnold comes from.

"The plantation has helped provided employment and business opportunities for many Karkar Islanders and local companies, which Sir Arnold could not."

During a public forum in Madang last week, Sir Arnold said: "I'm not a white man's cargo boy my friend, I don't need you, you pack up and leave my island."

Namah said: "In the 21st Century, there is no room for racist sentiments, particularly from professed Christians like Sir Arnold.

"Racism and apartheid are things of the past.

"The world hates both."

"The Attorney General's outburst clearly demonstrates his racist feelings from his inner heart. "People should be wary of such comments, which sends very negative perception of PNG in the global community.

"He should immediately re-track his highly inflammatory racial comments.

"He should also apologise publicly to Ken Fairweather.

"Failing that he should resign immediately forthwith."

Namah also called on the Ombudsman Commission to cite Sir Arnold for official misconduct for the use of racist comments against a naturalized citizen who has given his entire life to promoting and protecting PNG's interest.

Amet is not in fair weather

The Opposition has come to the defence of Sumkar MP, Ken Fairweather, who has been subjected to racial remarks - courtesy of Attorney General, Sir Arnold Amet.

Leader of PNG PartyBelden Namah said for a so-called "highly-respected Christian leader and former Chief Justice to stoop so low with highly racial slurs is totally unbecoming and demeaning of a Knight".

"Leveling racial slur to a senior naturalised citizen who has contributed immensely to the development and advancement of Karkar Island and Papua New Guinea as a whole, is unwarranted, unfortunate and most regrettable," Namah said.

"Mr Fairweather is a long-time businessman and owns the Wakilon and Kawailo plantations on Karkar Island, where Sir Arnold comes from.

"The plantation has helped provided employment and business opportunities for many Karkar Islanders and local companies, which Sir Arnold could not."

During a public forum in Madang last week, Sir Arnold said: "I'm not a white man's cargo boy my friend, I don't need you, you pack up and leave my island."

Namah said: "In the 21st Century, there is no room for racist sentiments, particularly from professed Christians like Sir Arnold.

"Racism and apartheid are things of the past.

"The world hates both."

"The Attorney General's outburst clearly demonstrates his racist feelings from his inner heart. "People should be wary of such comments, which sends very negative perception of PNG in the global community.

"He should immediately re-track his highly inflammatory racial comments.

"He should also apologise publicly to Ken Fairweather.

"Failing that he should resign immediately forthwith."

Namah also called on the Ombudsman Commission to cite Sir Arnold for official misconduct for the use of racist comments against a naturalized citizen who has given his entire life to promoting and protecting PNG's interest.

2 die, 13 hurt in Bulolo fight

By JAYNE SAFIHAO

 

TWO people are dead, 13 others hospitalised and eight homes have been torched after a retaliatory attack in Bulolo, Morobe, on Saturday afternoon, The National reports.

Of all those hospitalised with pellet wounds, eight were in critical condition.

Confirming the incident, Morobe provincial police commander Peter Guinness said the deaths, injuries and destruction stemmed from a drunken brawl allegedly involving a man from Finschhafen living at the Madang block and another from Patep near Mumeng.

Guinness said the fight started late in the evening at Bulolo market after the two men had a heated argument.

He said a fight ensued in which the Patep man was beaten and suffered injuries.

He then mobilised his supporters and converged on Madang block where the Finschhafen people live and set alight eight houses, which were razed.

The settlers retaliated and shot at their attackers.

He said when that group started to burn the houses down, they were turned upon and shot at by the mixed group of settlers living at Madang block.

Fifteen casualties were reported; 13 were in critical condition at the Bulolo Hospital.

Of the two dead, one succumbed to pellet injuries and the second was chopped up.

Guinness confirmed that a police task force team from Lae had been dispatched to the area

to monitor the situation and prevent further unrests.

He said controlling guns in Bulolo was a real challenge because this was one area in the country where World War II ammunition for .303 rifles, 7.6mm and 40mm heavy artillery could be found in abundance.

"These are very dangerous for both the enemy and the attacker," Guinness said.

He also expressed concern that it was becoming difficult to tell if a gun was acquired lawfully or made at home.

Bulolo police were also having vehicle problems and could not maintain daily routine patrols.

FW: Tempers flare at Madang forum

By JAYNE SAFIHAO     

 

SENIOR government ministers were branded "conmen and thieves" at a public rally organised by Justice Minister and former Madang governor Sir Arnold Amet last Friday, The National reports.

The rally, at Alexishafen, saw angry landowners and villagers expressing their frustration over outstanding land issues and refusing to let the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone project go ahead until all issues were resolved.

Ministers of two of the three leading departments, Trade and Industry and Commerce and Environment, Gabriel Kapris and Benny Allan arrived two hours late for the gathering, scheduled for 11am.

A notable absentee was Fisheries Minister Ben Semri, who was said to be overseas.

People from the impact areas in the crowd commented that they had received little support from the concerned departments.

Outstanding issues highlighted included organising of incorporated land groups and infighting among executives and clan members of the two umbrella companies, Kananam Investment Ltd and Rehammb Holdings, over positions of power; the absence of a working memorandum of understanding and agreement yet to be formulated; the exclusion of any legislation protecting the people's interest regarding long-term effects to their environment, health or land; the government's failure to conduct thorough awareness exercises in discussing boundary issues concerning underwater leases already marked and taken over by the project; and the question of equity for the people and provincial government.

Thirteen speakers grilled the ministers repeatedly on the outstanding issues.

Provincial government officers said since the inception of the project, the Madang provincial government, its project representative Francis Irara and impacted locals had been "in the dark" on how the project was progressing.

Francis Gem, a NGO representative and landowner, incited a scuffle on stage and started the name-calling.

He pointed at the ministers' faces, and said: "Konman ya. Yupela olgeta konman (you are all conmen)".

This was after Gem asked the crowd if they wanted the PMIZ pro-ject to continue and the crowd shouted "nogat (no)".

His outburst, which did not settle down well with Allan, who stood up to confront Gem and was shoved aside, brought provincial police commander Anthony Wagambie Jr and his men promptly on stage to calm things down.

Gem insisted on finishing his speech despite attempts by police to get him off-stage.

He was allowed to do so as villagers crowded the small stage, shouting menacingly.

Cops outnumbered in Hagen riot

By JAMES APA GUMUNO

 

THOUSANDS of people in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands, were all in a state of panic on Saturday afternoon after a huge fight broke out in the city's main shopping centre, The National reports.

The city came to a stand still for three hours and although police did their best to control the situation, many people suffered injuries from the stone missiles exchanged between two groups in the street fight.

The two landmark properties in the city, the AGC Haus and six-storey Komkui building, owned by Komkui Development Corporation, were badly damaged.

Some opportunist broke into the Central Business System, located on the ground floor of AGC, and reportedly removed some computers.

According to an eyewitness Tom Puk, a security guard at the Renbo Supermarket, the fight started at the Southern Highlands bus stop around 1.30pm.

Puk said a young man, believed to be from Western Highlands, pick-pocketed a man from Southern Highlands waiting to board a PMV bus home.

Bystanders at the bus stop, after seeing the man stealing, bashed him up and soon, friends of the thief joined in and fought  the bystanders.

The fight then spread.

Puk said the thief and his friends were chased into the main shopping centre, and soon after, people waiting for buses mobilised and fought against other people roaming around in the shopping centre.

Many people suffered deep cuts  from stones thrown.

By this time, policemen on duty were outnumbered by those in the clash.

Komkui Development Corporation chairman and paramount chief of Moge tribe, Andrew Dokta, blamed the police for the damage done to the buildings, vehicles and injuries sustained.

Dokta said if the police had intervened quickly when the fight started at the bus stop, none of the damage or injuries would have occurred.

He said the fact the fight lasted three hours clearly indicated that police were not prepared to deal with riots in the city.

He said a police mobile squad unit should be available at short notice to contain such trouble, adding that although business houses paid a lot of tax to the government, police were not doing enough to protect their property.

He said it was very hard to claim compensation for the damage because it was a street fight and no one particular person or tribe could be held responsible.

The cost of the damage to his two buildings will be assessed today.

Meanwhile, Paul Pawa,  owner of Mox 1 Security Service engaged at the AGC Haus, said his security guards could not do much to protect the building.

Pawa said his men were over-powered by the crowd and the police task force arrived later and brought the situation under control and dispersed the crowd.

A staff of the Mt Hagen Provincial Hospital confirmed many people suffered injuries were treated at the hospital and discharged.

NARI celebrates 14 years pf dedicated contribution

By JAMES LARAKI of NARI

 

On Thursday, the PNG National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) will be commemorating 14 years of dedicated contribution to innovative agricultural development in the country through scientific research, knowledge creation and information exchange.

NARI has been in the forefront; promoting and undertaking agricultural research for sustainable development.

In a short span of 14 years, the institute has been recognised nationally and internationally as the lead research organisation of high development relevance to Papua New Guinea.

To commemorate its 14th anniversary, the institute is hosting an 'Agricultural Innovations Show' at the Sir Alkan Tololo Research Centre, 10 Mile – Bubia, outside Lae.

The event is organised around the theme "Investing in Innovative Agriculture for Prosperity".

The theme reaffirms NARI's view that progress through innovative agricultural development is essential if PNG is to realise Vision 2050 and become a wealthy and prosperous nation. 

The nation has the need, great potential and vast opportunity to prosper through innovative agriculture, and hence the focus on investing in innovative agriculture.

The theme is in line with NARI's efforts to encouraging consistent investment in agriculture, particularly in research to develop technologies and innovations which are crucial agents in innovative agriculture and rural development.

With the economy projected to grow at 8.5 % and the LNG and other related projects coming on stream, PNG has a more-favourable environment and opportunities  now than ever before for all stakeholders to make positive contribution to innovative agricultural development in general, and to research, science and technology, in particular.

Since its inception in 2007, the show has become a popular annual event to recognise and value the importance of innovations in agricultural development, and create and promote awareness on the significant role of research, science and technology in innovative agricultural and rural development.

The chief guest of the event will be Paru Aihi, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and guest-of-honour will be Luther Wenge, Governor of Morobe province.

This year's show will involve demonstrations and displays of materials and technologies. NARI will also be officially releasing three improved technologies to the farming community. 

This show is expected to attract over 40 research and development organisations, extension service providers, the private sector, NGOs, women's groups, businesses, innovative farmers and community groups who will have the opportunity to display their inventions or innovations.

In its vision for PNG, NARI sees "Prosperous PNG Agricultural Communities".

To realise this vision, NARI stands by its mission "to promote innovative agricultural development through scientific research, knowledge creation and information exchange".

NARI research and development programmes fall within the framework and priorities set by the government's Medium Term Development Plan, Development Strategic Plan 2010 – 2030, Vision 2050 and the National Agricultural Development Plan.

They are designed to contribute to food security, improved incomes, growth and sustainable agricultural development in PNG, with major targets being the smallholder farmers and rural communities.

In a bid to remain focused and efficient, NARI has adopted a four-tier system of planning comprised of a Corporate Plan, Strategic Plan 2006-2015 and Strategy and Results Framework 2011 - 2020.

These plans, which chart the way forward for the immediate and medium terms, are translated into actions through Annual Implementation Plans and Reviews.

An annual implementation plan for 2011 has been prepared and is currently being implemented. 

In this year's innovations show, NARI will demonstrate how it is addressing various needs and aspirations of the nation and its people.

NARI programmes throughout the country will participate with exhibitions and demonstrations on a wide range of activities.

They cover innovative farming practices and improved food crop varieties, emerging food and cash crops, livestock production and management practices, and resource management issues based on NARI's applied and adaptive research.

Farmers and the public will also get to know the technical, analytical and diagnostic services and up-to-date information that the institute provides to the agriculture sector.

So far the institute has released 37 sets of improved technologies to the PNG farming community and is currently implementing 40 research and development projects.

On the occasion of the 14th anniversary, NARI acknowledges the invaluable support from the Government of PNG, AusAID, European Union, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research and key collaborators and partners both locally and abroad.

With continued research, NARI continues to work towards knowledge creation and technology generation and transfer as its core functions so as to improve agricultural productivity and production, reduce poverty, create broad-based economic growth and generate improved welfare for all in PNG. 

NARI strongly believes agricultural research and innovations should be the heart of agricultural development in PNG.

And the NARI Annual Agricultural Innovations Show is one such effort that could lead towards agricultural innovations in the country.

The event, which formally started 2007 on the occasion of NARI's 10th anniversary, is unique for the country because it is the first of its kind to recognise and value the importance of innovations in agricultural development.

The show will provide opportunities for stakeholders in the agriculture sector and participants to see these innovations, which have the potential to promote and improve agriculture in PNG.

 It will allow stakeholders to come together to share information, exchange views and showcase their activities.

While the importance of science, research and technology is appreciated for any development, these alone are not sufficient to bring real development and prosperity to the people.

What is needed is to link research outputs to development impacts.

We have to create an effective bridge between the scientific world and development.

And that is what NARI will be trying to do this come Thursday.

Crowning achievement for NASFUND managers

By CHARLIE GILICHIBI



Charlie Gilichibi (left) and Ian Tarutia

 With change being a constant and globalisation a constant reminder Ian Tarutia MBE, Joint CEO of NASFUND and Charlie Gilichibi head of IT and Special Projects Coordinator took the plunge to further their post-graduate studies to ensure the rate of learning for NASFUND as an organisation has to be greater than the rate of change around NASFUND’s superannuation ecosystem both domestically and globally.
Professor Subba Rao, convener of the MBA programme, on congratulating the graduands said the MBA “promotes out-of-the-box thinking and cross-fertilization as a means toward development of innovative ideas, products and creative endeavors”.
He said if one thinks hiring professionals is expensive, try hiring amateurs – seeing the professional skills and knowledge from the human resource capital as a cost center is a common mistake that employers make and encourages all potential employers to consider hiring from the stock of UPNG’s MBA graduands.
Adding to Prof Rao’s comments, Tarutia said the programme allows executives in senior management capacities to connect practice with theory as a refresher to further enhance the growth of industry in PNG contributing to national plans such as the Vision 2050 as well as corporate plans.
The graduands concurred the newly-acquired knowledge will enable them to squeeze value from every drop of their endeavors always striving to deliver more value for NASFUND members.
For a progressive and dynamic organisation that is as successful as NASFUND for a little over 10 years, sustained success fatigue can lead to comfort that may sub-consciously become a formidable enemy.
As a commitment to NASFUND members, both in principle and practice Messrs Tarutia and Gilichibi sacrificed their own time after hours and on the weekends in their pursuit for knowledge so that they can succinctly and clinically improve internal business processes, enhance customer services, pay close attention to creating cost efficiencies and enhance sustainable advantage for the organisation through its learning and growth objective.
A cardinal rule of sustained success is a learning organisation.
The MBAs for the NASFUND graduands infact puts more wind into the sails of the NASFUND boat.
It takes a committed group of people to change an organisation and that enough changed organisations can change the world.
UPNG and other tertiary institutions in PNG are commended for providing post-graduate knowledge and skills that are and will continue to meet the increasing challenges of globalisation and domestic pressures in business and addressing other societal issues.

CPL and partners to open first multiplex cinema at Vision City

From left are  Maggie Raiwong, project manager of Paradise Cinemas with Adrian Au, general manager of PNG FM and Mahesh Patel, chairman of CPL Group during the press launch of the Paradise Cinemas at CPL boardroom.

The press people who attended the City Pharmacy Group's media launch two months ago were treated to a movie screening of the latest Hollywood movie The Green Hornet plus popcorn, sodas and cocktails
to go with it to somehow experience a glimpse of the future cinematic experience in Papua New Guinea.
There was an air of excitement during the media launch as the highly-awaited multiplex cinema will be opened at the third floor of Vision City in Port Moresby with an 8.5m widescreen in three theatres, two standard ones and one Gold Class.
It is timidly planned to open by middle of this year and is billed as "Paradise Cinema".
The said cinema project is a joint collaboration of three major companies namely CPL Group, PNG FM Ltd and Damodar Group from Fiji.
There will be two standard theatres with seating capacity of 210 for Theatre 1 while it's 180 seats for Theatre 2.
To be built exclusively for Gold Class members, this third theatre will have a seating capacity of 100 people.
Speaking at the media launch held recently, CPL group chairman Mahesh Patel (pictured above, right)said: "We will install the most-advanced digital equipment at the Paradise Cinema.
"We have started testing the equipment and are busy training the staff.
"With its digital aspect from Dolby Digital Sound, one can view a film in crystal-clear, near- to- perfect quality and with the best sound system."
One of the partners, Adrian Au, the general manager of PNG FM Ltd., added that "the said project would also mean additional employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans aside from providing a surefire entertainment avenue for them".
Once the cinema opens, it promises to show the latest Hollywood releases as well as other international and regional flicks.
Located on the third floor of Vision City, it will be the first multiplex cinema in Papua New Guinea, consequently creating another avenue of entertainment, where you and your family can have a good time.