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.

Nambawan Super and Joint Venture Partner to build replica of former House of Assembly

Project signboard

Works begins on the old House of Assembly

By SIR NAGORA BOGAN
Chairman
Nambawan Super

Nambawan Super limited is the major shareholder (65%) in a join venture with the Lamana Group that will construct a replica of the Old House of Assembly building which, when completed, will be transferred
to the National Museum and Art Gallery as was approved and directed by the National Executive Council in January 2007.
We have had a number of successful joint ventures with the Lamana Group, which has delivered positive returns and value to the Fund. Nambawan Super, as a responsible corporate citizen, is pleased to be
part of a final win-win solution to rebuild a significant piece of our nation's democratic history.
There have been many attempts in the past that have not materialised for various reasons.
Attempts to achieve that objective failed even though considerable funds were raised and assigned to the project.
The neglect continued and the building became more derelict to the extent that a demolition order was issued in June 2005.
Just over a year later, in July 2006, a notice for eviction and demolition was published
A press statement back in April of 2006 created the seeds of an idea which would see the old House of Assembly reborn as a memorial and a museum dedicated to the birth of democracy in PNG.
That statement related to the disappearance of K300, 000 raised for the renovation of the old house.
Not a toea was spent, the report said.
That article highlighted the sad state for the old House of Assembly.
Since it was ravaged by fire, many former staff or their relatives along with new squatters converged on the property and demolition were notices issued by National Capital District Commission.
It didn't take long to find a win-win solution but it did take quite a while to get the necessary agreements to the idea and for it to then pass the various stages to obtain full approval and go ahead by the
National Executive Council in 2007.
The extensive internal due diligence process that followed also took time to ensure probity by Nambawan Super.
In fact, it has taken five years, but at last there is now action happening with clearance of the site with builders now mobilising on site to start work.
We have spent close to Kl million in land rent payments to the state and in getting the site ready for improvement.
We are pleased to be able to play a significant role in restoring a place of our modern history where the birth of our democracy took place.
This will be a historic place where many of our citizens, our children and visitors can visit, reflect and hopefully be inspired.
As a significant national project, the process will be inclusive and will involve consultations with all key stakeholders including the trustees and management of the National Museum for technical details in the internal reconstruction of the House of Assembly.
We will be developing the rest of the land for commercial development.
Nambawan Super has taken the opportunity to be leading the project and acknowledge that it will be in PNG hands with our members benefiting both in the commercial terms and for restoring back a major part of
our nation's history.

This blog wins UNESCO/Divine Word University Award for Communication and Development

Speech by Brother Michael McManus at World Media Freedom Day at Divine Word University

I am pleased to announce the winner of this year's UNESCO/DWU award for communication and development.
The winner is Malum Nalu from The National newspaper.
Since the emphasis at today's celebration today is on digital media, we would like to especially acknowledge Malum Nalu's contribution to digital media through his blog site: Malum Nalu blogspot.
His site is updated daily with news of interest to his local and international audience.
It certainly lives up to its aim of promoting PNG and what it has to offer.
He incorporates news written by journalists and comments by visitors from around the world.
The information on his site has been through the professional and ethical filters that apply in his workplace.
One of the problems with blogs is that there are no generally accepted standards of ethical practice, so in many blogs gossip and rumours are portrayed as facts.
We certainly encourage everyone to express their opinions as citizen journalists, but the lack of journalism skills by many writers does not improve the overall quality of the online news content.
We believe that in response to the wonderful opportunities created by the digital media, there is a greater need than ever for competent professional journalists to provide context and analysis of news for
consumers.
Opinion does have its place, but we would like to think that a new professionalism is possible amongst the digital revolution.
Since Malum Nalu is not with us here today, we are happy to present this award digitally, and we now invite him to respond digitally.
Congratulations Malum Nalu.

Accord gives Japan more access to PNG

By PATRICK TALU

TRADE, Immigration and Foreign Affairs Minister Don Polye has signed a bilateral accord on Tuesday that would remove obstacles to Japanese investment in the Pacific country rich in natural resources such as liquefied natural gas and copper ore, The National reports.
Japanese foreign minister Takeaki Matsumoto and Polye endorsed the pact in Tokyo, with the two expressing hope that the accord would deepen bilateral economic ties.
In a meeting with Polye following a signing ceremony of the investment treaty, Matsumoto said Tokyo would try to ratify the accord soon.
The Japanese minister also expressed gratitude for donations of K10 million by Polye on behalf of the people of PNG to support Japanese victims of the March 11 9.0 quake and tsunami.
The two countries launched negotiations on the investment pact last September after then Japanese prime minister Yukio Hatoyama and his Papua New Guinean counterpart Sir Michael Somare reached an accord to start the talks in March last year.
During the talks, Matsumoto told Polye that Japan, which faces energy shortages due chiefly to the ongoing nuclear crisis spawned by the twin disasters, hoped that Papua New Guinea would be a stable LNG supplier for Japan.
Polye said from Tokyo that PNG would ensure that a LNG development project, in which JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp is involved, would run smoothly.
About half of some 6.6 million tonnes of LNG to be produced annually from the project is scheduled to be exported to Japan.
Meanwhile, a statement from the Japan embassy in Port Moresby said it hoped that the signing of the bilateral investment agreement would further boost the economic development of PNG and affirm the bilateral relationship of the two counties.
“The agreement will contribute to enhancing legal stability for investment and promoting investment between the two counties as well as people-people exchange.
“It will also contribute to further strengthening the economic relationship with PNG which is being more important to Japan as a supplier of LNG,” the statement said.

Seven government organisations excluded from 7.5% pay rise

By JEFFREY ELAPA

NOT all public servants will benefit from the 7.5% pay increase signed between the Public Employees Association and Department of Personnel Management yesterday, The National reports.
Under the new memorandum of agreement, seven government organisations involved in service to the people are excluded in the payout expected on May 18, the 10th pay day of the government payroll system.
More than 35,000 public servants will be entitled to the salary increase.
Department not included in the award are police, Correction Services, Teaching Service Commission, Defence, Ministerial Services, National Forest Authority and the National Judiciary Services and Magisterial Services.
Public servants in other departments and government organisations will benefit from salary increases for the next three years.
Public Employees Association president Michael Malabag said a 6% salary increase plus a 1.5% increment based on productivity had been agreed too.
He said the package included a consumer price index threshold given by the government to cushion any fluctuations of CPI.
He said this would be determined “from time to time”.
He said recreational leave fares to employees would be made available after every two years for a public servant and his family.
Malabag said the association had rejected the government’s buy-out offer of K500 per annum for the K20 fortnight housing subsidy.
He said the association was negotiating for a K250 fortnightly accommodation allowance and would pursue the matter before the public service conciliation and arbitration tribunal.
He said the government’s home ownership scheme was vague and a long-term plan that would benefit and solve the housing problems of public servants.
But, Malabag said other matters such as retrenchment/ retirement agreement, reduction of 35% tax on terminal benefits, compulsory life and health insurance cover, risk allowance and review of outdated allowance rate provided in the general orders would be negotiated at a later date.
DPM secretary John Kali urged all public servants to perform their duties diligently.
He said the people really needed their service and with the increase in salary, they should perform better.
The new agreement covers a three-year period of annual increases.

Remake of old ‘house’ to portray democracy

THE torn-down old House of Assembly in downtown Port Moresby is to be rebuilt and dedicated as a museum to the birth of democracy in Papua New Guinea, The National reports.
Superannuation fund, Nambawan Super Ltd (NSL), is the major shareholder (65%) in a joint venture with the Lamana Group that will construct a replica of the old House of Assembly.
NSL chairman Sir Nagora Bogan said in a statement yesterday that, when completed, the building would be transferred to the National Museum and Art Gallery at no cost to the state.
In return, the joint venture would be given an adjacent subdivision of the House of Assembly land to develop for its own purposes.
The statement sets to rest conflicting messages reported this week that the site might be turned over to private interests to use for their purposes, a view that was supported by the culture and tourism minister and the management of the national museum.
The plan for a private consortium to build a replica of the old House of Assembly was agreed to by the national executive council in January 2007 but internal matters of due diligence that followed to ensure probity by the Nambawan Super took time, Sir Nagora said.
When completed, the replica of the old House of Assembly will have on display old photos, statutes and other memorabilia such as who designed the national flag and who wrote the national anthem.
Former culture, tourism and civil aviation minister Charles Abel, who had quite a bit to do with this idea in his time, said: “We wanted not just to restore the House of Assembly but to have a living, moving theme.
“We wanted an element of self-sufficiency to it.”
Sir Nagora confirmed this in his statement: “We are pleased to be able to play a significant role in restoring a place of our modern history where the birth of our democracy took place.
“This will be a historic place where many of our citizens, our children and visitors can visit, reflect and, hopefully, be inspired.”
He praised the Lamana Group for its part in the project.
“We have had a number of successful joint ventures with the Lamana Group which has delivered positive returns and value to the fund.
“Nambawan Super, as a responsible corporate citizen, is pleased to be part of a final win-win solution to rebuild a significant piece of our nation’s democratic history.”
Many attempts have been made in the past to restore the building but none had materialised.
Considerable funds were raised and assigned to the project to no effect.
The neglect continued and the building became more derelict to the extent that a demolition order was issued in June 2005.
In July 2006, a notice for eviction and demolition was published.
A press statement in April 2006 created the seeds of an idea which would see the old House of Assembly reborn as a memorial and a museum dedicated to the birth of democracy in PNG.
That statement related to the disappearance of K300,000 raised for the renovation of the old house.
Not a toea was spent on restoration, the report said.
That article highlighted the sad state of the old House of Assembly which had been ravaged by fire.
Many former staff, or their relatives, and new squatters converged on the property and demolition notices were issued by NCDC.
Sir Nagora said the joint venture had spent close to Kl million in land rent payments to the state and in getting the site ready for improvement.
He said the rest of the land would be developed for commercial use.
“Nambawan Super is leading the project and acknowledges that it will be in PNG hands with our members benefiting both in commercial terms and for restoring a major part of our nation’s history,” he said.

Port Moresby power, water restored

City Hall kick-starts talks with K500,000
By ANGELINE KARIUS and SAMUEL RAITANO

WATER and power was restored to Port Moresby residents at 1pm yesterday after Koiari landowners reached an agreement with the national government and NCDC, The National reports.



Kairuku-Hiri MP and Minister for Education Paru Aihi (left) assisting NCD Governor Powes Parkop as he switches on the main power valve at 1pm yesterday.-Nationalpic by EKAR KEAPU

 The landowners agreed to accept K500,000 instead of the K1.5 million they had demanded.
They then handed over the keys to the Rouna II hydropower station.
By 8pm last night, electricity and water were fully restored to the capital city.
The keys were given in exchange for the payment, which would be used to facilitate talks between the landowners and the national government over outstanding memorandum of understanding (MoU) issues.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop said the K500,000 from the City Hall was not to compensate for the death of Koiari leader Umaia Koeari.
It was to help the landowners begin negotiations under the established task force committee and ensure a memorandum of agreement (MoA) was reached.
He said he would join the task force team, set up by the national government, to address the grievances the landowners had with the state in order to solve the matter once and for all.
He said compensation payments by the government would set a precedent for future demands when similar incidents occurred.
Parkop said the K1.5 million compensation requested by landowners should be paid by the perpetrators responsible for Koeari’s death and not the government.
Koeari was killed on April 19 at Hohola 3, Port Moresby.
Parkop thanked acting Prime Minister Sam Abal, Higher Education Minister and Kairuku-Hiri MP Paru Aihi and Finance Minister Peter O’Neill for their help in reaching a quick resolution to the water and power crisis in the capital.
“I am happy that an agreement has been reached, and power and water supply restored,” Parkop said.
Aihi thanked his people for taking the boldness to address the issue.
“Koiari people have been neglected for too long,” he said, stressing that a MoA was needed to secure commitments on their behalf and the government to fully realise its positions on the agreement.
He said Abal and Attorney-General Sir Arnold Amet had assured their support for the people.
Both PNG Power and Eda Ranu officers thanked Parkop for resolving the dispute.
Landowners cut water and power supplies to Port Moresby on Tuesday.
PNG Power workmen were filling the head pond and penstock before water could go into Rouna 1, III and IV power stations to start generating electricity.
Linesmen were working on a fallen line that caused a blackout last night and disrupted the starting of auxiliary equipment at the power stations.

Here they lie segregated from the mainstream

By DAVID NALU

Beneath giant rain trees that lined the perimeter of the cemetery were hundreds of neatly lined granite headstones on manicured lawns.

Juanita Gamoga (left) and Lavao Nalu against a backdrop of white crosses at Bomana War cemetery on ANZAC Day 2011

They reflected faint light in the in the cool misty morning air.
This was Bomana war cemetery, at the ANZAC day dawn service on the 25th April 2011, to commemorate Australian and New Zealand service personnel that lost their lives in major conflicts and especially World War II which was more relevant to PNG.
It was a quiet, perfect and sombre moment to reflect on life generally, and to remember our own fragile mortality and to remind one’s self of where we fit into the massive scheme of the things in history, time and space.
As the ceremony drew to a close, I left the crowd and wandered down the rows of graves, with the lone bugle call of the “Last Post” resonating in the background, in the early morning misty dawn and amidst the morning cries of the “kigahoc” birds in the tree tops.
I wandered on, a little bemused yet sadly sorry by the names and ages engraved on the upright, granite headstones that marked the graves.
Maybe it was the sombre moment, but what struck me next and welled silent tears, was when I crossed the line of the graves of an the unknown soldiers.
For them - the daily prayers offered by their mothers to the Almighty, for the return of their sons, was not to be.
Their inscriptions on granite slabs simply read, “Known only unto God” - a stark reminder of the often senseless nature of war.

Sunrise over Bomana War Cemetery on ANZAC Day 2011

It was these very thoughts that ran through me, and to well those silent tears.
It was the tragedy of war – my thoughts went out to the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters that will never what really know became of their loved ones.
Driven by the call of the British Empire, they left the comforts of their home and took up arms to rage a war in tropical jungles in a foreign land against a fearful enemy exaggerated maybe more so on propaganda.
Despite all that war historian and books will tell you - one really has to wander what the war was really about - what was it really for – you’d have to be almost insane to leave the comforts of your home, bundle off to a foreign land and fight a meaningless battle against an enemy you did not know nor really understand what had driven them to war.
However what has always been painfully apparent was the lack of appropriate recognition by the colonial regime, of the significant contribution of the Papuan soldiers, carriers and even indigenous Australians who served and lost their lives.
They only feature in the far corner of the cemetery, amounting to 30 so headstones, but segregated away from the mainstream.

Somare recovering after surgery

By ABC PNG correspondent LIAM FOX

Papua New Guinea's elderly leader Sir Michael Somare is said to be recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery.
Sir Michael has been in Singapore on medical leave for the last fortnight and there have been rumours the 75-year-old had died.
But his spokeswoman and daughter, Betha Somare, says Sir Michael underwent surgery last week and is recovering well.
"He remains a fighter and will be around for many years to come," she said in a short statement.
No further details of the surgery were released.
In another statement, Sir Michael's deputy chief of staff Leonard Louma said the leader will remain in Singapore until he is fit enough to resume his duties as prime minister.

The truth about the old House of Assembly

By JULIUS VIOLARIS
President – Board of Trustees
National Museum and Art Gallery

The House of Assembly as it used to be, driving up Touaguba Hill

A lot of controversy and misinformation has been circulating in the press regarding the “Old House of Assembly” and the future of the site and the building.
As President of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum & Art Gallery I wish to clarify the situation that now exists by providing some hard facts to dispel rumors and misconceptions.

These are the facts that people should consider, regarding the recent history of the “House of Assembly” and the actions taken by the Government to safeguard the site and to replicate the original “House of Assembly” on that site.
These may not be what the public perception is at the moment, but it is the truth of the matter.
Firstly, there is nothing left of the original building that can be saved and refurbished.
It is all gone.
• The Old House has had a varied history, originally built in 1905 as a hospital in early colonial times. Eventually it became the First Legislative Assembly between 1958 and 1960, and four years later it became the full House of Assembly. It was extended at various times and after independence in 1975 it changed name from House of Assembly to National Parliament.

• It was vacated after the construction and opening of the National Parliament building at Waigani in 1984. The building was left to the care of the Central Provincial Government for purposes of its Provincial Assembly. This was formalised by an NEC decision, No27/90

• In 1992, the Central Provincial Government was granted a Business (Commercial) lease over the land where the Old House of Assembly was located. By this time they had abandoned the building for Konedobu where they actually moved to in 1990.

• Between 1990 and 1996 the building was left unattended by any official government authority and illegal tenants moved in. The building suffered severe vandalism during these time and two fires consumed 90% of the building in 1996.

• The fires crystallised attention on the Old House of Assembly and a public outcry galvanised government action and the NEC in 1996 by its Decision No.182/96 rescinded the earlier decision No.27/90 resolved to transfer the custody of the Old House of Assembly from the Central Provincial Government to the National Museum & Art Gallery. The same decision carries a Directive to the NMAG tasking it with restoring the Old House of Assembly and developing it into a political museum and a historical monument. Following the NEC decision the Minister for lands granted a lease on the property to the NMAG in February 1998.

• The restoration project was supposed to commence in 1997 and the Government earmarked seed funding of K106,000 for this. The Museum, also with the help of the “Friends of the Museum”, initiated a fund-raising drive called “Save the House Fund” which apparently raised K300, 000 between 1997 and 2006. Sadly not only did the NMAG neglect to take any action to restore the building, it made all the funds raised “disappear” (see Post Courier 26th April 2006)

• It is a sad fact that the management of the NMAG and the leadership became weakened by politics and self-serving interests and obviously lacked the inspiration, willingness and energy to see this restorative project implemented. Even after the NCDC Building Authority issued a demolition order on the buildings in June 2005 they waited for a year for the NMAG to respond. When they failed to do so , they published the Demolition order in the National on the 26th July 2006.

• This period marks the “Dark Ages” for the NMAG, with ineffective and corrupt management that did not just neglect its duties but actively acted contrary to the safeguarding and preservation of our culture, monuments and artefacts.

• The NEC, in its wisdom, resolved to take action and by its Decision No 30/2007 to approve the proposal by OPH Limited to replicate the Old House of Assembly and have that and the land it sits on handed over to the NMAG as the State Agency that is to be responsible to preserve the “Historical Centre” and that OPH Limited have the remaining land granted to them.

• The remains of the OHA are not existing to be refurbished – it is physically impossible to do so – and so a new building, replicating the old, will be constructed and given to the NMAG. It will be developed at a cost equivalent to the market value of the whole Section 8 Allotment 11.

Basically, the NMAG and the people of PNG are getting a replica of the Old House of Assembly at no cost to the state, and as far as the NMAG is concerned it is in fact selling part of the land to finance rebuilding the Old House of Assembly.
In view of the situation that existed in 2007, the NEC acted in the best interests of the NMAG and the people of Papua New Guinea by the actions it has taken to safeguard the site of the historic building and at the same time creating a monument to the birth of our Nation.
This land that the Old House was on is not just any lease-hold land and it should not be traded and bought and sold as any other lease-hold property in the land.
 It is the womb in which the Nation of Papua New Guinea was developed and grew before its birth, and the Government should take whatever steps necessary to protect it and this it has done through NEC Decision No. 30/2007.
The current Board of Trustees is very much aware of its duty and is doing everything in its power to return the NMAG to its proper role.
We have now identified the only Papua New Guinean educated and qualified to run the Museum, we have overcome challenges and court actions by the past management and are now waiting for our political masters to officially appoint him in this important role.