Papua New Guinea's new sea training school contributes to maritime shipping industry

By REGINALD RENAGI, DMS, OBE, psc, jssc (Rtd.)

 

Serving the maritime industry of PNG

For the first in many years, Papua New Guinea now has a new sea training school aimed at filling an important gap in the maritime industry.

 It’s a small start at this stage but the country’s first private sea training school - Pacific Maritime Training College (PMTC) - is managed by former professional mariners having a strong passionate vision of training educated men and women as skilled seafarer deck ratings to serve our maritime shipping industry.

The management of the school firmly believes the initial training provided now will support our growing shipping business by the provision of skilled seafarers graduating from the school.

The school believes in learning through application and requires its seafarer trainees (students) to learn and fully apply what they learn in the classroom at sea in whatever capacities they may be employed in future.

PMTC puts special emphasis on ship safety aspects as it considers this to be of paramount importance.

 The course materials are designed in a way that specifically instills in students general personal safety responsibility, discipline and social responsibility as seafarers.

The school’s complementary mission is to provide lifelong career learning skills opportunity for those serving in PNG’s maritime shipping industry.

 In so doing, our graduates will serve our country and further promotes PNG’s maritime interests within the region and globally.

National recognition

PMTC is recognised as a national undergraduate and graduate education sea training school.  Founded and recognised in 2009 by the National Training Council (NTC Approval Number # 181) and the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA).

 It is located in Konedobu, National Capital District, Port Moresby. 

One of the few schools in PNG, PMTC offers a complete line of training programmes that are specifically designed to help mariners advance from ordinary seafarer to bosun or assistant engineer, working onboard vessels of unlimited tonnage trading in PNG coastal waters.

Maritime courses

The following is a complete listing of PMTC programs that will lead to a specific qualification or endorsement:

• Basic Seamanship course for General Purpose (Deck and Engine). 
• Additional training may be required, including the completion of Basic Safety Training (BST). 

• On completion of the above-referenced minimum standards will permit graduating trainees to work in an entry-level position (General Purpose) as an Ordinary Seaman (deck hand rating), or engine hand rating.

• Ratings Forming part of a Navigational and Engine Watch course;
• Able-Bodied Seafarer course;
• Assistant Engineer course; and
• Bosun/Coxswain course.

Creating a positive-learning environment

PMTC director of training and master trainer, Reginald Renagi (OBE), who works under the college principal (a former merchant shipping master mariner, executive of the National Maritime College and National Maritime Safety Authority) has since last year been working hard with his training team to create a positive learning environment for new trainees enrolling to do courses each month. 

Renagi sees a very big future in the country’s first private maritime training provider and is very excited about including other intermediate and advanced maritime course within the next 12 to 24 months.  

As master trainer, he sees what the new school is offering to meet a very-important development requirement for this country by producing deck-rating seamen for its growing shipping business. 

This industry is going to grow very rapidly with the country desperately needing properly-trained skilled seafarers. 

The trained seaman will initially work on commercial coastal vessels, with many eventually going on to serve onboard foreign-flag vessels working in international ports. 

Reginald Renagi is serious about assisting the government meet this urgent demand for trained seaman and the PMTC is the perfect vehicle now being designed for this important industry development requirement. 

The director said the school opened in 2009 and presently conducts general purpose deck ratings basic seamanship training courses graduating some eighty seafarers within eight months of opening it doors to the public. 

Many of the students passing through the school have since found seafaring jobs onboard vessels putting to good use the training they received at PMTC.

The school is currently conducting its third training course for this year with more new course being designed by Reginald Renagi and his training team of former mariners.

The present seamanship course is of four weeks duration.

 On completion, three certificates are issued to trainees.

These certificates are: Basic Seamanship and a Safety at Sea Programmes including a General Purpose Rating (an NMSA approved certificate) for PNG Coastal Area of operations. 

All PMTC courses are conducted in accordance with professional requirements of the “Merchant Shipping Act” (STCW Convention) Regulations.

The courses involve both classroom and outdoor practical/demonstration sessions with external training service providers as required.  

In future, the PMTC plans to have onboard professional trainers from recognised international maritime schools to conduct specially designed professional short course programs at the school.

Crewing agency

Currently, plans are underway now to work closely together with Pacific Marine Crewing Agency to do job placements not only for seaman graduates from the school, but also with other seafarers seeking shipboard employment opportunities, but do not know how to go about it. 

Reginald Renagi said business is booming in PNG, especially now with the LNG project and the need for more seamen will only increase with time. 

The expanding shipping business and other commerce activities in PNG’s petroleum and mineral sectors of our economy will see that many vessels will want to employ trained seafarers to work in both coastal, and overseas trading vessels – and PMTC will be there to meet their needs now and in future.

External service providers

Director Renagi said the PMTC has already drawn up memorandum of agreements (MOA) with external service providers like PNG Fire Service, National Fisheries Authority and National Fisheries College.

 It is having discussions with interested stakeholders like PNG Customs Services, PNGDF, RPNGC, NTC, NMSA, Department of Transport and PNG Ports authorities to mention a few. 

PMTC further plans to soon conduct customs operations-related courses as well as port facility security courses. 

On this, the former Royal Australian Navy trained and senior defence force operational and executive manager is very confident the PMTC is here for the long haul with it long-term vision and mission of training and providing skilled seafarers for the PNG maritime industry. 

This will in future also have a big impact in the Pacific region’s shipping industry.

The PMTC is currently self-funded but the former navy man and master trainer believes with the right approach he is very confident the government will see it in their direct interest to support the country’s new sea training school’s vision to provide trained seafarers required for PNG’s shipping business, and help grow a strong economy.

 The sky is the limit and the PMTC plans to expand by running more relevant industry-related courses as well as increasing its trainer staff within the next 24 months.

 

Papua New Guinea needs a coast guard service

By REGINALD RENAGI

 

Papua New Guinea’s national security since independence has remained very much static. 

It is time the government shows it is serious about our national security. 

For a start, the whole Defence organisation must be completely overhauled as part of the government's national strategic plan 2010 - 2050. 

 The Ministry must critically improve its capacity in several key critical areas: command, management, leadership, organisational culture and effectiveness, assets and facilities, administration processes and staff procedures, strategic policies, programmes and projects, military rules and regulations, conditions of service for active members and retirees (pensioners), all ancillary services; and in general improving the general of our servicemen and women with their dependents in our defence communities. 

 This future challenge is now before our government. 

This is most vital if PNG is to get the very best out of defence in future. 

A lot of hollow-sounding speeches by politicians over the years are nothing more than mere platitudes. 

Such useless speeches only give people unnecessarily high expectations come election time, or on some special occasions.

 Soon after getting into public office, politicians easily forget about improving our country's security. 

 Politicians to date have yet to develop their required statesman skills with much finesse.  They must be well educated in what defence is all about and what it can do to develop PNG in numerous positive ways. 

Defence has an important nation building function mandated by the constitution.

 The defence organisation can on the whole contribute immensely to national security, development and unity of PNG if it is adequately resourced. 

 Since independence, defence has always been a very-loyal, committed and dedicated employee to successive governments. 

Over the years, service personnel have been inculcated with the noble ethos of diligently serving “God, Queen and Country" from day one. 

This noble Mindset makes defence very different from the normal run-of-the-mill dysfunctional bureaucracy we have now. 

 Despite some inherent deficiencies, defence is a more-loyal and committed state employee than other national agency. 

This has unfortunately been a one-way street for defence.

 The fact is our politicians and bureaucracy have no real idea at all about enhancing our national security. 

 Our elected representatives are just plain ignorant about key issues affecting national security. 

PNG needs a far-sighted visionary leadership that will address our national security today - not in another 33 years time. 

In future, when PNG may face a grave security threat then it will be too late as we will not even be ready then. 

 Today, the question of 'affordability' is no longer an option as we now have the resources to not keep neglecting our security. 

The Ministry and its defence council must demand more from our government for a better deal for defence. 

Defence officials must no longer be reticent about this vital issue of getting the government's attention to effectively put its money where its mouth is about national security.  

 I also urge senior defence officials to effectively articulate to our parliamentarians in several ways they know best.

 Defence has become a national disgrace because our country's leadership has consistently failed it. 

We only have to see what our neighbours' armed forces are doing these past few years to strengthen their defence forces to make us feel very ashamed of our own lack of real leadership here. 

I again encourage senior officers to professionally assert their real concerns to the defence council. 

The council must get the best deal for defence from government and parliament, and in the process, get full community support for defence. 

 In addition, a major paradigm shift is needed within defence. 

We need more personal effort, commitment and resources to really improve defence capabilities.

 PNG has the resources to positively change defence's present status.

It is time politicians stop their lip-service and show a real commitment towards modernising defence.

 If the government and parliament cannot even do this despite the pressing need today, than abolish the defence department and let a regional government take care of our national security.

 Yes, it does look too easy this way, except that our country will be seriously compromised to potential enemies.

 Today, the most feasible and viable option for government is to set up its own independent National Coastguard Service (NCS) by 2012.

 This must be a part of PNG's new national strategic plan.

 A future NCS will truly serve PNG well by contributing directly towards security and economic development in a far more cost-effective manner than before. 

A NCS will be a fully justified decision as this maritime security agency will generate revenue in several different ways. 

With our new strategic plan for the next 40 years, this presents a great opportunity for the defence Ministry and government for a new future security option.

 The coast guard's offshore tapestry resource protection tasks will include naval, coast guard and civil agency missions conducted all year round on behalf of several line agencies.

 The coast guard will be a new maritime security regime generating substantial revenue for our economy.

 In addition, the NCS will pay itself off many times over in any one year in the conduct of enforcement activities in support of government policies. 

We will have the required revenue to upgrade existing surveillance platforms including acquire additional operational assets. 

Current fleet strengths of ships and aircrafts will need to be augmented as required for improved surveillance and resources protection duties. 

 After 35 years of independence, PNG's national security will be further enhanced through an independent coast guard service. 

I suggest government planners incorporate this security planning option as a key priority development program within the MTDS and the national strategic development plan.

 

• The writer is a former patrol boat commander and defense chief   

 

Tourist numbers in Papua New Guinea drop dramatically: Sir Peter

Former Madang Governor and prominent tourism operator Sir Peter Barter says tourist numbers in Papua New Guinea have dropped dramatically.

Sir Peter, an outspoken former Health Minister, also reiterated his earlier calls for PNG to import Cuban doctors to serve in the rural areas of the country.

He was speaking at the Divine Word University open day in Madang today which was presided over by Governor General Sir Paulias Matane.

“Sadly today, despite what we read in the media, tourism has decreased dramatically not only in Madang and the Sepik, but throughout PNG with perhaps the exception of the Kokoda Track,” Sir Peter said.

“Visitor arrivals have increased but this is mainly as a result of other economic activities including the LNG projects. 

“Airlines are happy, hotels in Port Moresby may be happy but provincial tourist operators are seriously concerned over the decline.

“Students at DWU should delve into some of the obvious and not-so-obvious reasons why bona fide tourism is in decline.”

Sir Peter said it was also his intention to import initially 50 Cuban doctors to work with church health services to assess their effectiveness to improve rural health services.

“It was also to send 50 PNG students to Havana to train as rural doctors but equally, if not more important, was the development of a rural doctors programme at DWU,” he said.

“Whilst the Cuban concept remains stationary, I am pleased that DWU is moving ahead with its plan to train rural doctors.

“As Minister for Health, I had National Executive Council approval to fund K300 million to improve health infrastructure including hospitals, equipment and rural health services.  

“This was eroded down to K187m.

“Little of this money was released and as we all know our health service is in a terrible state. 

“As Minister, I introduced several legislations: that included the Health Service Management Act which effectively combined national, provincial and LLG health services and hospitals; and the Church Health Act which was to allow Churches to do what they do best and allow them to seek direct funding through donors and other sources and stand on their own two feet. 

“The National Aids Council Amendment provided a multi-sectoral council to coordinate the fight against HIV/Aids in PNG.

“In June, DWU will be hosting an important youth HIV/AIDS debate.

“This debate will be the first of its kind in PNG where all universities will be involved and already they have met and finalised the rules of engagement. 

“The debate will be opened by Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, and will be attended by the Health Minister and hopefully other leaders, but they will be here to listen to the educated youth, keeping in mind they are the most-likely to be effected by the HIV virus and together, we need to hear how the youth feel the Government should improve in awareness, treatment and care.”

Governor-General at sea

Governor General Sir Paulias Matane trying out his hand on the wheel of Melanesian Tourist Services vessel mv Kalibobo Spirit in Madang.

Divine Word University open day

Pictures of today's Divine Word University open day in Madang, which was presided over by Governor General Sir Paulias Matane.

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.”

Voco Point gets a new lease of life with hardware shop

Voco Point Hardware all dressed up for opening day on Saturday.-Pictures by GABRIEL LAHOC

First customers rushing into Voco Point Hardware

Customers checking out what is on offer at Voco Point Hardware

One of the first customers of Voco Point Hardware with a roll of wire

By GABRIEL LAHOC

The seafront of Voco Point in Lae is experiencing a renaissance of business activities, with Voco Point Hardware as the latest to set up shop at this once-bustling business hub of Morobe province.
Lae’s newest hardware shop was officially opened to the public yesterday at a ceremony witnessed by members of the public, clients and customers.
Operating as a subsidiary of Mukito Suppliers Ltd, Voco Point Hardware Ltd is a 100% nationally-owned hardware shop specialising in general, industrial, electrical and agricultural supplies.
From humble beginnings in Goroka, Voco Point Hardware brings competition to other hardware suppliers in Lae, with a strong faith to provide the best service and prices to customers.
The hardware shop may be small compared to other established hardware shops, however, the management is of the firm view that it is a very big achievement in terms of the ownership and investment by any Papua New Guinean.
“It’s a big achievement for all small nationally-owned businesses, as most times, these businesses have been overlooked by bigger foreign businesses,” said proprietor Allan Mandi, who started his path as a businessman in 2004 from his experience and a start-up capital of K900 finish pay from another hardware shop.
Voco Point Hardware is located at the junction of Frigate Street and Seagull Street, opposite Trends Beauty Saloon and The National Lae bureau office, and has current staff strength of 20 working under manager Charlie Lapila.
According to Mr Mandi, total staff strength including Mukito Supplies up in Goroka was 50.
Voco Point Hardware promises very-competitive prices and services, which includes special deliveries, with major clients from the rural districts services in Eastern Highlands province such as Department of Agriculture and Livestock and the University of Goroka.
“We can challenge the giants and create competition in this industry,” Mr Mandi said.
The official opening on Saturday, in line with the Christian background of the Mandi family, was led by Pastor Yakura Mandi, who emphasised that God had plans for everyone and everyone should have faith in God.

Investigation concludes at University of Goroka

The independent investigation team at the University of Goroka (UOG) for the past month concluded its investigations into the recent student boycott last Friday (April 30, 2010).

As directed by the UOG council, the three-member investigation committee comprising of Michael Gene, Prof Allan Easton and George Kuno was established to investigate several concerns outlined in an agreed terms of reference (TOR) document previously submitted by the Student Representative Council (SRC) and the National Academic Staff Association (NASA) containing issues related to the boycott of classes.

Chancellor of UOG, Benais Sabumei, said today (Sunday, May 02, 2010) that a report of the investigation’s findings would be formally presented to the UOG council at its next meeting.

 

 

NARI to release kaukau ensiling technology for pig farmers

Caption: Michael Dom of NARI (left) explaining the kaukau ensiling technology to Agriculture Minister and guests at Bubia recently.

 

By SENIORL ANZU of NARI

 

Pig farmers in Papua New Guinea will know a new methodology for developing and preserving improved feed from sweet potato or kaukau which can be stored over longer periods before feeding pigs.

The methodology, known as ‘sweet potato silage for pig feed’, will be officially released to the PNG farming community on Wednesday (May 5) during the 2010 Agricultural Innovations Show organised by National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) at its Sir Alkan Tololo Research Centre at Bubia outside Lae.

Other highlights of the occasion include a major stakeholder forum on preparing PNG for drought, launch of NARI’s national drought preparedness project and the display of a model resource centre which will be fully equipped with information and resources that will be made available to some 50 centres throughout drought-vulnerable regions of PNG.

The silage technology is a result of NARI’s research and development effort by its livestock programme to improve efficient use of feed by commercial pig growers.

Director for agriculture production systems improvement, Dr Sergie Bang, said kaukau silage developed though the technology could be stored for up to seven months with very simple equipment and relatively-low material costs.

Dr Bang said the technology also improved digestibility of feed, maintained good growth of pigs and potentially improved carcass quality and economic returns

He said the process of silage worked for kaukau in the trials conducted by NARI over the last few years, under both lowland and highland conditions.

“Fermentation acidity was measured at pH 4, which is an indication of high grade silage quality and when fed to pigs, kaukau silage has improved the digestibility of all feed nutrients,” he said.

“When silage was supplied as 50% of diet, digestibility was similar but the growth of pigs was expectedly lower than the sole grower ration.

“The kaukau mixed diet led to improved overall performance of pigs than those on traditional feeding options.”

Dr Bang said all materials needed for ensiling such as graters, bins and plastic sheets

could be easily obtained from agricultural stores in PNG.

The kaukau silage is made through ensiling techniques.

 Ensiling is a method of processing green and raw feed materials that enable their preservation and storage over many months.

Material that undergoes ensiling, known as silage, can provide a very-nutritious and highly-palatable meal for animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.

The technology has been proven for pig feed in PNG using kaukau tubers and vines at NARI Labu and was then promoted to villagers and smallholder farmers from communities in which pigs are culturally and economically-prominent.

 Feeding kaukau tubers and vine to pigs is a popular practice by pig farmers in PNG. Growing feed for pigs or providing for pigs from the family garden is a laborious daily chore.

 Kaukau tubers are also cooked before being fed to pigs.

Preparing silage means that cooking pig feed will not be an added task, usually for women.

It is hoped that the ensiling techniques will help save time and labour by enabling pigs to be fed from the preserved and stored feed.

Silage contains feed nutrients, carbohydrates and proteins, from ingredient materials, which have been partially broken down by fermentation processes and are readily digested and absorbed by animals.

Proper ensiling and careful storage enables feed to be kept in good quality for feeding long after the growing season of the crop.

Other food crops such as cassava, cassava leaf, banana and legumes as well as agro-industrial by-products such as copra meal, corn and wheat mill run and rice bran can also be used for ensiling.

Two contact farmers in the highlands and their surrounding farmers have become keen users of this technology, since the silage process and feeding was demonstrated to them. 

They are Albert Kirimpa of Kainantu and Akilo Purunu of Tambul.

Mr Purunu is a semi-commercial pig farmer on whose farm the on-farm feeding trial was concluded.

Members of the Highlands Pig Growers Association from other parts of the Highlands have requested for this technology.

Land of the free and home of the brave

Granger Michael with his mother Celine at the White House in Washington DC last Friday
Granger Michael and girlfriend Brigit Moore at the White House last Friday
Celine and Graham Michael with baby Kebai

A beautiful morning in the Eden-like Rose Garden at the White House in Washington DC, USA, home of the most-powerful man on earth.

It is Friday, April 23, 2010.

President Barack Obama, casually and in a carefree manner for a man of his status, steps forward for this naturalisation ceremony of active-duty service members.

Among the 24 young men and women from around the world assembled here today is a 25-year-old Papua New Guinea, Granger Michael, who has already served three tours of duty in the deadly killing fields of Iraq.

The feats of young Granger are already the stuff of legend among family and close friends both in the USA and PNG.

His father, Graham, part Manam Island in Madang and Pila Pila in East New Britain and mum, Celine, from Panguna on Bougainville, shed quite tears of joy as Granger – resplendent in US Marine Corps colours – prepares to receive his accolade from Obama.

“To America’s newest citizens - it is a great honor to serve as your commander-in-chief, and it is my greatest pleasure to be among the first to greet you as a ‘fellow American’,” Obama begins.

“To you and your families, welcome to the White House.

“Today is your day - a celebration of 24 inspiring men and women and the remarkable journeys that have brought you together on this beautiful spring morning to our nation’s capitol.

“The paths that led you here began in more than a dozen countries, from Peru to Poland, from Kenya to the Philippines.

“Some of you came to America as children, holding tight to your parents’ hands as you arrived in a new world.

“Some of you came as adults, leaving everything you knew behind in pursuit of a new life.

“And while your stories are your own, today we celebrate the common spirit that lives within each of you - a spirit that has renewed and strengthened America for more than two centuries.

“We celebrate the love of family -- your moms and dads who were willing to say good-bye to their own families, their own countries, so they could have an opportunity to give you the opportunity you (sic) never had.

“Like generations of immigrants before them, they worked hard.

“They scrimped and they saved.

“They deferred their own dreams so that you could realise yours.

“So today is a tribute to their sacrifices as well.

“And I would ask that you join me in honoring your moms and dads and the families that helped bring you to this day.

“We celebrate the spirit of possibility - an ethic that says if you’re willing to put your shoulder to the wheel and apply your God-given talents, if you believe in yourself and you play by the rules, then there is a place for you in the United States of America - no matter where you come from and no matter what you look like.

“We celebrate the true meaning of patriotism - the love of a country that’s so strong that these men and women were willing to risk their lives to defend our country even before they could call it their own.

“It’s the patriotism of a young man from Papua New Guinea, who joined the United States Marine Corps and deployed to Iraq - not once, not twice, but three times. Asked why he would choose to become an American citizen, he said simply, ‘I might as well. I love this country already’. And so we congratulate Granger Michael.”

Granger Michael always displayed an interest in things military, according to father Graham Michael.

Mr Michael, a former Washington DC-based PNG diplomat whose father is from Dugulaba village on Manam Island in Madang province and mother from Pila Pila village in East New Britain province, is married to Celine from Guava-Dapera village at Panguna, Bougainville.

“We arrived in Washington DC on post in mid October 1997 when Granger was just 11 and a half years old,” he told me.

“Throughout his upbringing, while on post, he was very interested in all things military and that includes guns, tanks, airplanes and all sorts of military equipment.

“By age 13, his interest peaked and he decided to join the US Air Force's Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) at his school - Woodrow Wilson High.

“After his year 12 graduation, he joined the US Marine Corps as a fresh recruit at the Marine Corps training depot at Parris Island, South Carolina.

“The 13-weeklong training in combat warfare is the longest in any US military basic training and he eventually graduated with flying colours in mid 2004.

“After graduation he was transferred to his first unit at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

“Camp Lejuene is the home of the ‘Marine Expeditionary Forces in Readiness’, the largest Marine installation in the east coast of US with over 40,000 Marines prepared for war deployment at short notice.”

Mr Michael said from there, his son was sent to Iraq on his first combat tour in late 2004.

“After six months deployment, he returned to Camp Lejeune and was again prepared for redeployment,” he said,

“He was deployed in Iraq in late 2006 for another six months stint.

“His third battle deployment was from mid 2007 to early 2008.

“Throughout his three tours of duty, Corporal Granger was an infantry team leader with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines.

“He served in Fallujah, Ramadi and other theaters where his Company was attacked multiple times by improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

“Today, he remains in active duty and is assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington, DC as squad leader.”

Granger’s 23-year-old brother Leon S Michael, second born after him, is also serving in the US Armed Services as an electrical engineering specialist with the US Air Force.

He is currently attached to the engineering division at Travis Air Force Base near San Jose, California.

“Our daughter, Renee W Michael, 17, is graduating year 12 in June and is looking forward to studies in environmental science at one of the local universities here in West Virginia,” Mr Michael said.

“Apart from the two big boys, Renee and our two small boys - Graham J Nagora Michael II, seven, and Kebai S Michael, three - currently reside with us at home.

“Although the two boys were born in Maryland and West Virginia respectively, only Kebai is a US citizen by birth.

“Celine currently works as despatch officer with a large freight company here in West Virginia.

“Although she earned her diploma in secondary education from Goroka Teachers College (now University of Goroka), she decided to change job when we first resided here as permanent resident.

“She has been with this company for nearly five years now.

“As for me, I am currently lead software design and developer in my Microsoft gaming business.

“I started my software company - Pacific Islands Simulation - in mid 2008 and have so far published two Microsoft flight simulator software products.

“I design and develop three-dimensional (3D) objects and terrain sceneries from various sources including NASA satelite images under the Microsoft gaming label for pilots flying aircrafts in real life and use these product as training tools.

“The software genre is also meant for those who simply want to enjoy as desktop game to hone their skills in ‘computer flying’."

“My interest in flight simulation software is obviously related to my background as pilot and longtime aviation enthusiast.

“The two products are currently sold and received very well in Europe through shops in Germany and Belgium) Australia and Asia, and here in the US.

“From the sales success thus far, I guess I may be the first Papua New Guinean to break into the highly-challenging software gaming business.

“I am currently working on a third product which should be completed before the end of this year.”

But for now, the Michael family is so proud of their son and brother, Granger.

“We are so proud of his accomplishments first as our son, second as a US Marine Corp serving and protecting US interests and aspirations abroad, and finally as family and friend to so many of you,” say Graham and Celine.

Both video and transcript of President Obama’s speech are available online, the video at http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/naturalization-ceremony-us-service-members and transcript at http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/remarks-president-naturalization-ceremony-active-duty-service-members

Cholera alert!

By Rosheila Tess E Dagina

Surveillance and Emergency Outbreaks Officer

National Department of Health

 

Dear Friends,

 

Good afternoon to you all I would like to take this time to make aware to you all that cholera is now in Port Moresby.

We have confirmed the diagnosis by laboratory support from Central Public Health Laboratory at Port Moresby General Hospital for a couple of cases

Just to remind you all, that this disease has the potential to cause a major epidemic in the city and its peripheries if appropriate control and preventive measures are not seriously taken in to consideration.

This diarrhoeal disease can be fatal in at least 6 hrs from the onset of symptoms if immediate medical advice is ignored.

Symptoms include:

·        Sudden onset of profuse watery diarrhea;

·        No fever associated; and

·        There may be vomiting or abdominal cramps.

All these lead to very severe dehydration and death.

The first thing to do at home is to drink plenty of water (coconut juice is very helpful) and seek immediate medical Attention at your nearest health facility.

Preventive measures I can reemphasise as a reminder:

1.      Always wash hands  after using the toilet or before preparing and handling food

2.      Wash all fruits before eating( especially skin)

3.      Boil water before storing as drinking water (70 degrees Celsius at least will do)

4.      Cook all food thoroughly before eating

5.      Avoid Flies.

The good news here is that this disease can be contained and eradicated from an epidemic to an endemic state if simples measures as above a followed.

If you do see or hear of an unusual increase in the above symptoms in association to diarrhoea in your areas, Speak to your Health Workers to immediately report to the National Department of Health Surveillance Unit for further investigation and verification.

 

Outgoing New Zealand diplomat pays tribute to Paoua New Guinea people

Caption: Outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner Niels Holm with wife Suzette.-Picture courtesy of NEW ZEALAND HIGH COMMISSION

 

Outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner Niels Holm says the real wealth and strength of Papua New Guinea is in its people.

Mr Holm, who leaves officially on May 27 after three years in PNG to take up a new post as Official Secretary to Government House, said this at a farewell function at his residence last night.

His successor, Marion Crawshaw, arrives on May 28.

“PNG has been a fascinating and rewarding posting,” he said.

“It is a young country still working on shaping its institutions.

“It is a land of great contrasts - with poverty and wealth obvious to the most-casual visitor. 

“But real secret is its people – a rich HR resource that constitutes its real long-term wealth when the copper and gold, the oil and gas are all gone.

“Most impressive of all is that small elite group of Papua New Guineans who are determined to do all in their power to make their country function as it should and stand tall.

“They seem immune to disappointments and just get up again after every knock back. 

“I take off hat to them.

“They are the boast of PNG, and I firmly believe that the future of PNG lies with them, not with visions of LNG riches.” 

Mr Holms said he and wife Suzette would take home many memories to New Zealand, some of the fondest being election day in Kundiawa 2007, glorious scenery of the Highlands Highway from Mendi down to Hagen, desolation of Arawa, volcanoes in Rabaul, snorkelling in Alotau and letters of hope and appreciation from some of those in remote areas whom the New Zealand High Commission had been able to assist.

“But the most-abiding memory is the toughness, resilience and determination of ordinary Papua New Guineans to cope with the demands of daily life, with that famous PNG smile,” he said.

Mr Holm said bilateral political and military relationships were strong with New Zealand hosting many PNG students, some of whom returned to join the now 230-strong Kiwi Alumni Association. 

“Our bilateral relationship, I am happy to say, is going strong,” he said. 

“While we may not have the intimacy or scale of engagement with PNG of our big neighbour (Australia), we have always had an excellent understanding with PNG’s leaders and in particular a shared perception of how the Pacific might address its problems.

“Trade is less strong, but we are hoping to change that , our first trade commissioner in a decade is here this week talking to officials and traders on how New Zealand can return to a market we have neglected.

“Last week we had an outstanding official visit to New Zealand by Prime Sir Michael Somare, which reconfirmed the bilateral relationship at the most fundamental level. 

“The Prime Minister met New Zealand leaders, members of the PNG community, and had various contacts with Maori and discussions of their problems.

“I believe that he left New Zealand reminded of the fundamental strength of the bilateral relationship, and of the factors that have always made it possible for us to have a close if not a common understanding of bilateral regional and global issues.”

A change of tact

From PAUL OATES

I refer to an article in today's Post Courier titled 'Bill delay...'. Yes, there's been a change of 'tact' on the part of some leaders, but it seems it is still business as usual? If the amendment to Section 27(4) has already been passed and is now up the Speaker, what chance is there of rescinding it? If Mr Malandina now wants more work done on his Amendment, why didn't he first check it out with ALL the stakeholders and circulate it publically and widely prior to introducing it into the House? Surely this is an attempt at 'smoke and mirrors' and further obfuscation of Mr Malandina's true intent? What is the government's view on this? Clearly it supports the entire Amendment and is only waiting for the current furore to die down. I hope those who are trying to have the Amendment withdrawn are not to be fooled. _____________________ Article in today's PC: News Friday 30th April, 2010 Bill delay . . . By JONATHAN TANNOS NON-government organisations yesterday made a breakthrough in getting the chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on the Ombudsman, Moses Maladina, to agree to delay final debate on the controversial Constitutional amendments. But Mr Maladina now faces the daunting task of convincing the Government caucus lead by the Leader of Government Business, Paul Tiensten, to allow for it. This is in order for them to make supporting changes to the amendments or review the proposed changes to the Organic Law on Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership and the other Constitutional alterations. The breakthrough came through an open meeting with leaders of the NGOs led by Transparency International PNG, Community Coalition Against Corruption, the Churches and Women's Councils plus others led by National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop. In a change of tact Mr Maladina has invited most protesting groups including lawyers, senior citizens and students to sit down with him and go through the changes. But he has also made it clear that he would not be withdrawing the bill, as it was already the property of Parliament and any changes would have to be integrated with current amendments on final approval by the government caucus. "The last thing I want to do is withdraw it," he said. "It's in Parliament and I want to make the changes there." Yesterday's open meeting was the first opportunity for the NGOs to hear from Mr Maladina first hand clarifications over the many misunderstandings and misinformation relating to the amendments. For many there it was a relief when Mr Maladina explained each specific amendment when they were given the opportunity to voice their objections on each one. On the most controversial one - Section 27(4) of the Constitution - rescinding the directive powers of the Ombudsman Commission, Mr Maladina told them it had already been passed and was only awaiting certification by the Speaker. And instead of the expected confrontational approaches to the meeting all parties found themselves being tasked by Mr Maladina to carefully scrutinize their own proposed changes and improvisations to be presented to his committee for consideration. "I myself want some more work to be done on the changes," he said. "There's a lot more work to be done." Mr Maladina said it was the responsibility of the Ombudsman Commission to protect the integrity of leaders "not having a prosecutorial attitude." Mr Maladina gave the working committee representing the NGOs to come up with their changes by Monday next week. He gave assurance that there would be debate on the floor after the additional consultations have been held.