Divine Word University urged to take lead in Ramu Nico conflict resolution

Caption: Governor General Sir Paulias Matane visiting a stall at the Divine Word University open day.-Picture courtesy of Sir Peter Barter

 

Former Madang Governor Sir Peter Barter has called on the Divine Word University in Madang to take the lead in conflict resolution at the Ramu Nico Mine in the province.

He made the today at the Divine Word University open day in Madang, which was attended by Governor General Sir Paulias Matane.

“In Madang, the Government has an agreement signed with MCC to develop the Ramu Nickel Mine, the process of evaluation of the mine and environment was all approved,” Sir Peter said.

“Promises were made for roads, bridges and other infrastructure.

“Just weeks before the multi-billion kina project was to begin production, a court order has stopped the project from proceeding due to doubts as to safe dispersing of the tailings.

“We now have NGOs springing up from nowhere that have planted their ideas in the minds of the people, most of whom are foreign NGOs being funded by foreigners targeting their anger at the Chinese. 

“They seem oblivious to the fact that the issues related to the environment were approved by scientists in or contracted by the Department of Environment and Conservation.

“On this issue, I am not taking sides, but I think in a place of higher education we should all act on the best advise available – if there is a risk to the environment then some other options should be considered, if in the calculated of independent experts it is safe, we must be very careful not to destroy the project.

“Perhaps, institutes like DWU can develop faculties to deal with conflict resolution, perhaps in the future DWU may have to look at introducing faculties to train environmentalists and mining engineers so PNG themselves can evaluate projects such as the Ramu Nico Mine?”

Sir Peter voiced his disappointment  that Madang business houses, who derived so much benefit from DWU, were noticeably absent on the open day.

“DWU has become one become a large industry in Madang,” he said.

“ By sheer size of the university, which is now the second largest in PNG, providing 4,000 meals a day and accommodation for 1,00 students and lecturers in what was a virtual swamp just 14 years ago is no mean achievement.  

“Madang has become the largest centre of learning outside the capital, Port Moresby – the combination of Lutheran School of Nursing, PNG Maritime College, Institute of Medical Research, Madang Teachers College, Madang Vocational Centre, College of Allied Health Science, St Fidelis all involved in providing tertiary education in what can only be described as an almost-perfect learning environment.”