Nautilus shelves plans to sell shares

NAUTILUS Minerals, which plans to mine copper from the ocean floor in its  Solwara-1 project in the Bismarck Sea, said last Friday that it had shelved plans to raise C$150 million in an equity offering due to adverse market conditions, The National reports

Reuters news last Friday said the Toronto-listed company said it made the decision despite a positive response from investors when it

was marketing the proposed offering.

Nautilus announced the offering on May 24.

It said at the time it would use the proceeds to develop its Solwara-1 project, off the coast of Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Ocean.

 The offering was to be conducted by a syndicate of underwriters led by TD Securities and Credit Suisse.

Some of the cash from the offering had also been earmarked to fund the production support vessel required at Solwara-1.

“While it is disappointing to withdraw the capital raising, we did not believe shareholders would be best served by issuing stock in the current market conditions,” chief executive steve Rogers said in a statement.

“We have a strong cash position and a range of alternative options available to access capital in the future,” Rogers said.

“Nautilus continues to advance its first project at Solwara-1.”

Nautilus is expected to release its first-quarter financial results early next week.

 The company said it had a cash balance of about US$140 million as of March 31, and no debt.

Shares of Nautilus jumped 16% to C$2.62 in early trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange last Friday.

 

 

Somare visits barred

New ministers and reshuffle expected today

 

VISITS to Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare in a Singapore hospital is being restricted by the Somare family, The National reports.

That was the stance of the Somare family who said that the prime minister’s health was more important and did not wish for the PM to be placed in any stressful situation, the PM’s protocol sources said last night.

Sir Michael is still in intensive care at the Raffles Hospital where he underwent a valve replacement and two open heart operations.

He was said to have overcome a complication he experienced with his lungs.

“He is stable, but he will not be able to receive visitors,” the source said.

The family had asked that no visits be entertained and Lady Veronica was said to be personally in charge of Sir Michael’s health and issues such as who gets to see the Grand Chief.

The family position came to light following reports that sacked duo, Don Polye and William Duma, might have flown to Singapore to visit the ailing prime minister.

The visit had touched off some raw nerves in government with one ministerial aide describing the visit as “distasteful, inconsiderate and childish”.

“Do they realise that their visit, in light of their decommissioning by the acting prime minister, could be stressful to the prime minister?

“The prime minister is a heart patient. The last thing Sir Michael needs now is stress or high blood pressure.

“Even if their visit is well meaning, their visit will still trigger some stress in the prime minister.

“This is distasteful, inconsiderate and childish and the two men owe Sir Michael and his family an apology.”

The source claimed that before his decommissioning, Duma and Petromin managing director Joshua Kalinoe had tried to visit Sir Michael to discuss some oil and gas tenement issues and were refused.

The news last night was that nobody from government had visited the Grand Chief over the Queen’s birthday weekend and no one was likely.

Lady Veronica had been very concerned about Sir Michael’s health for some time.

In a rare moment, she was said to have told Sir Michael in front of government officers a few weeks before he left for his operation in Singapore to quit the job completely in light of the gravity of his medical condition.

An officer of the PM’s office said Lady Veronica was said to have told Sir Michael words to the effect: “Em inap nau, papa. Larim ol yangpela mekim wok (This is as far as we go. Let the younger politicians carry on the work).”

Meanwhile, acting Prime Minister Sam Abal is expected to announced new ministers for foreign affairs, trade and immigration and petroleum and energy today.

Together, with the new names, a reshuffle would also be announced with at least one more minister to be decommissioned. The minister was said to be facing criminal proceedings in court.

Public Enterprises Minister Arthur Somare left his father in Singapore and was last night in Cairns en route to Port Moresby.

Somare will face a leadership tribunal on July 4.

Whether or not he is stood aside as minister will be decided by the tribunal when it meets, Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia said last week.

Female body found inside yard of acting prime minister

THE body of a woman was found inside the private premises of acting Prime Minister Sam Abal at Konedobu, NCD, early yesterday morning, The National reports.

While admitting to the discovery, Abal said he had personally called Police Commissioner Tony Wagambie informing him of the incident.

Police have removed the body to the Port Moresby General Hospital morgue and immediate murder investigation into the cause of death and persons involved was underway.

The motive of the killing was not known, but murder had not been ruled out.

Police are also trying to establish the ethnic origin of the deceased.

“The alleged murder took place within the perimeters of my private home,” Abal said in a media statement last night.

“I have directed for normal police process of investigation in establishing the facts surrounding the murder to take place at once.

“I, including my family members, will fully cooperate with police in this investigation. We will not interfere in this case.

“If any of my family members are involved, they will face the full brunt of the law and will not be treated differently as anyone else in similar situations.

“All family members living with me are immediate suspects and are subject to investigation and questioning by police,” the acting prime minister said.

Abal said: “Anyone found to be involved will face the full consequences of the law.

“They will be charged with murder in the same way as another other person in society who has no regard for the value of human life and dignity of a person.

“I will fully cooperate with police during the course of investigations,” Abal said.

 

 

Lutheran laymen cited in bad deal

By PISAI GUMAR

 

DISTRICT bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran church of PNG say that laymen officials have breached the church’s constitution, company laws and, in the process, are in contempt of court in making business decisions, The National reports.

These laymen had also misled the church council for more than six months into believing that certain business-related changes had not been made.

However, the alleged changes had been effected at the Investment Promotion Authority, affidavits filed in the National Court in Lae stated.

The affidavits by the bishops, who are known as presidents, were obtained by The National.

They show that the laymen – church secretary Albert Tokave, finance secretary James Pena, German adviser Lothar Stock and the Jabem church district representatives Titi Solomon and Australian Chinese Ben Woo – were involved in making changes to the IPA records of the church’s trust company ELC-PNG Nominees Ltd last Aug 2 and Aug 13.

These laymen were not a lawful authority to hold a meeting and make changes to ELC-PNG Nominees Ltd or the church’s business arm, Kambang Holdings, the affidavits said.

“This was fraudulently done and backdated to June 17,” the affidavits stated.

The presidents said when the names of the laymen were nominated last June, there was a dispute and the matter was deferred to the November session of the church council.

The presidents explained that all shareholders’ meetings were governed by processes described under section 102 while appointments were under section 134 of the Companies Act 1997 and schedule 1 of the constitutions of both ELC-PNG Nominees Ltd and Kambang Holdings.

The process would entail a minute from the church council to the trust company (Nominees) for it to act.

There was no minute of the shareholders’ meeting of June 17 for Nominees Ltd and for Kambang Holdings on Sept 21 last year – the days when decisions were made to make the changes, the affidavits said.

The presidents said the five laymen were also in breach of schedule 4 section 4 in which they held meetings and made decisions when they did not have the required quorum of six, thereby, also contravening section 108 of the Companies Act.

“Therefore, Nominees Ltd does not have a company board,” the affidavits stated.

The affidavits noted several other discrepancies:

*Pena holding five senior positions as finance secretary, director as well as company secretary of ELC-PNG Nominees Ltd and director and also surrogate secretary of Kambang Holdings;

*Tokave, according to the church constitution, should be the public officer, or the proxy, and could not be a member of ELC-PNG Nominees board;

*Stock, the German, could not be holding any substantive post because he was in an acting capacity as treasurer, and that diplomatic protocol between Lutheran churches overseas (including Germany) do not allow expatriates from taking any roles and responsibilities other than that which they were brought to PNG for;

*Woo, the Australian Chinese Lae-based businessman, not being a council member; and

*Solomon, not being nominated in the council and yet appearing on the IPA registry.

94 bag awards from queen

By JEFFREY ELAPA

 

NINETY-FOUR people have been recognised for distinguished services to the community in this year’s Queen’s birthday honours list.

Governor-General Sir Michael Ogio announced the names of recipients yesterday, The National reports.

Noel Levi was awarded a knight bachelor for service to the public administration in his former roles as a minister of state, senior public servant and diplomat and secretary-general of the Pacific Forum and to John Ralston Wild for service to commerce, particularly in air transport and tourism and for community and humanitarian endeavours.

The order of Saint Michael and Saint George (civil division) was given to Andrew Kumbakor for service to the community as a member of the national parliament and minister of state and Erna Kathleen Pita for service to the community and the advancement of women’s status and welfare.

The order of the British empire (civil division) was awarded to Gari Baki, Peter Humphrey, Charles Lepani, Mathew Tjoeng while Dr Umadevi Ambihaiphar, Ni Cragnolini, Neville Henry Howcroft, Richard Maru, Rev Father Patrick McIndoe, Ricky Moke Mitio, Steven Mokis, Susan Ranjanayagam, Frederick Sheekiot, Dr Robin Sios, Akuila Tubal and John Wauwia were awarded OBEs.

Those who received MBEs were Orly Alvarez, Ian Andrew Chow, Igo Daure, Chief Insp Cathy Dobb, Robert Ian Howden, Guwi Kambi, Alphonse Krau, Anthony Kundila, Kay Wakerley Liddle, Aravapo Lohia, Moses Makis, David Kym Mitchell, Kandaso Napi, Simon Passinggan, Gerald Philip, Graham Pople, Wayne Leslie Satchell, Wan Sete, Lahui Tau, Sebulon Tovaira, Alois Chris Valuka, Russel Waibauru, John Warbat and Rev Dondoli Wawe.

Imperial service order awards were given to Tommy Nahuet and David Naon, while British empire medals were presented to Michael Sigiho Buka, Dominic Bre, Nancy Dabada, Peter Du, John Hinalu, Mavis Holland, Clare Ivia, Juliana Jiki, Alois Rokoa Kanakana, Avosa Kave, Peter Nere Kupo, Timothy Laemeta, Timothy Meria Lapeya, Ding Mathew, Rev Mondopa Mini, Joseph Muna, Giyame Mashleen Nagwi, Yaku Nolepo, Joseph Panu Arimax Magabe Peyape, Bothen Pusembo, Paias Puwa, Michael Sau, Yori Sauna, Araga Dikana Sere, Gitene Somole, Elijah Taksir, Joyce Talibe, Imbi Tanda, Janet Diribu Telabe, Kee Tine, Walter Unam, Richard Waera and Edward Yaliui.

Sir Michael announced that Brig-Gen Francis Agwi was the recipient of the order of the British empire (military) CBE award while Col Joseph Fabila was awarded OBE and a MBE went to Commander Michael David, Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Kumun and Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Augustine Daniels.

Sir Michael announced Chief Warrant Officers Dick Roy, Steven Narimonda Jonah Pomeleu, Francis Tule and Michael Taram Valuka as recipients of the British empire medal (military) medal.

Australia’s first WW1 battle was not in Gallipoli, but Papua New Guinea

By MALUM NALU

Most Australians know about the horrors of Gallipoli in 1915 and commemorate Anzac Day annually on April 25.

Bitapaka War Cemetery where Australians from WW1 and WW11 are buried

However, very few people know and acknowledge the fact that Australia’s first battle against Germany was seven months before Gallipoli, in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea,
Who has heard about the 1914 capture of German New Guinea?
Alternatively, the battle between the German Pacific fleet raider, SMS Emden, shelled by HMAS Sydney on September 11, 1914 and beached as a total loss?
Few people also know that Australia’s first submarine AE 1, on patrol near the Duke of York Islands, some 20 miles from Herbertshohe (Kokopo), was lost with its crew of 35 on November 14, 1914, and has never been since then.
Various theories exist but it seems likely that the navigator, who was using captured German charts, may have misunderstood them and hit a reef.
Now, former Rabaul-based policeman, Maxwell Russell Hayes, is pushing for this battle to be given the full recognition it deserves before its 100th anniversary of Gallipoli in 2014.

Maxwell Hayes...fighting for recognition of this fogotten battle

Hayes joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1950 for six years, including service in Korea.
He was appointed as a direct entry to commissioned rank to the Royal PNG Constabulary in 1959, and his first posting was to the New Britain island town of Rabaul in the volcanic Gazelle Peninsula.
Hayes became interested in the rich history of that area as it concerns Australia.
After 15 years in the constabulary, he was retrenched at the rank of chief inspector at the time of PNG independence in 1975.
As PNG was then not covered by the Australian section of International Police Association, Hayes joined the British section on July 6, 1964, transferring to the Australian section on February 23, 1976.
In researching the history of RPNGC, he made three return trips to PNG.
“Despite this being Australia’s first battle in WW1, Australian government commemoration is non-existent and there are surprisingly few memorials,” Hayes says.
“At the Royal Australian Navy base, HMAS Cerberus, there is a memorial in tiles naming those who perished in this battle.
“In Sydney, high on the sandstone wall near the Opera House at Circular Quay is a small plaque erected in 1964 denoting the sailing of the fleet on August 19, 1914.
“For many years, Northcote RSLClub (Victoria) has recognised that one of the first two killed was a Northcote citizen.
“On December 16, 2001, it commissioned a large mounted bronze plaque commemorating this battle with images of William Williams and Brian Pockley.
“Each year, on September 11, a small group meets to commemorate Australia’s first six killed in battle with the loss of submarine AE 1 and its crew in WW1.
“At Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance, wreaths are laid by two grand nephews of Pockley and Williams within the shrine and at the ‘Rabaul’ tree.
“The 100th anniversary of this small but important battle will be in three years.
“It is hopes that the Australian government might see fit to recognise Australia’s first battle as a sovereign nation.
“Locating, and hopefully recovering our lost and forgotten coral-encrusted steel coffin, AE 1, with its 35 crew still entombed would be a significant gesture.
“The post-humous award, in what should have been Australia’s first WW1 Victoria Cross to Captain Pockley for the meritorious deed, which cost him his life, would be more appropriate.
“With the exception of Moffat, those Australians killed in the battle were buried in various locations before being interred at Rabaul in 1919.
“There, those graves suffered considerable damage during the bombardment of Rabaul during the Japanese occupation.
“Finally, the graves were returned to the Bitapaka War Cemetery in 1950, very close to where they fell in 1950.”
With the outbreak of WW1, Britain declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914, and knew that a large and hostile German naval fleet was active in the Pacific Ocean.
Britain feared that a newly-constructed wireless station at Bitapaka near Rabaul in German New Guinea would be of immense assistance to that fleet.
By cable on August 5, 1914, Britain requested Australia to capture and destroy that wireless station.
In the early nationalistic fervour of doing battle with Germany, a force of 1, 116 New South Wales army volunteers with 451 naval reservists was quickly enlisted and uniformed.
This force embarked on the HMAT Berrima from Man O’ War steps at Circular Quay, Sydney, on August 19, 1914.
“The force became known as the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force,” Hayes says.
“The accompanying flotilla of almost the entire Royal Australian Navy, including our first submarines AE 1 and AE 2 (sunk in the Darndanelles and recently discovered in situ in 1998), steamed north.
“It stayed a few days at Palm Island and two weeks at Port Moresby for further training.
“This was the first-ever Australian force as such to leave our shores, and the first commanded by Australian officers.
“Earlier foreign wars such as the Maori Wars, the Boxer Rebellion and the Boer War were comprised of colonial (state) forces before the Federation in 1901.
“Early on the morning of September 11, 1914, our fleet entered Rabaul’s magnificent deep volcanic Simpsonhafen (Simpson) Harbour.
“Earlier troops and naval reservists landed some 20 miles away at Herbertshohe (late Kokopo) and the stone Kabakaul jetty.
“This was thought to be the nearest access to where the wireless station was probably located.
“In fact, it was located some five miles inland and directions to the inland track were obtained from a Chinese trader.
“Shortly after dawn, the attacking force (comprising mainly of naval reservists, with some army medical personnel) started to make it way along a narrow track through the thick jungle.
“The track was mainly impenetrable on both sides.
“The force came under the first volley of fire from a numerically-superior German force of reservists, backed by native troops, firing from positions in high trees.”
To cut a long story short, killed were Australian Army Medical Corps Captain Brian Golden Antil Pockley, 24, of Sydney; Able Seaman William George Vincent Williams, RANR number 294, 28, of Northcote, Victoria; Able Seaman John E Walker, RANR number 121; Lieutenant Commander Charles B Elwell of Wentworthville, New South Wales; and Able Seaman Henry W Street, RANR number 419.
The party continued to advance along the track to capture the wireless station.
German deaths were estimated to be one reservist and about 30 native troops.
On the same day, having received information the seat of government had been moved inland to Toma, HMAS Encounter shelled the position.
German acting Governor, Dr E Haber, then sought a truce, until officially surrendering three days later.

Lest we forget!

Nautilus granted mining lease for Solwara-1

FOR the first time, a major step forward in the development of seabed mining is now in place with the granting of the mining lease to Nautilus Minerals for the development of the Solwara-1 project in the Bismarck Sea between New Ireland and New Britain, The National reports.

The mine operation, located 30km from the coast of New Ireland and at a depth of 1,600m, is expected to begin by the end of 2013 with the mining of “high grade” seafloor massive sulphide deposits that contain copper, gold, silver, zinc and lead.

While the project is unique as the world’s first seabed mine, the lease arrangements themselves are a reflection of the evolving legislative and regulatory process in PNG since the 1970s.

“This will enable us to avoid past experiences from the Ok Tedi and Bougainville mines,” senior technical assessment engineer with the Mineral Resources Authority Lyndah Brown-Kola said.

Brown-Kola was part of a team of government officials from PNG at­tending the deep sea mineral project workshop organised in Fiji by SOPAC, a division of the South Pacific Secretariat of the Pacific Community. 

The team presented to the delegates the legislative and regulatory pro­cess in PNG that led to the granting of the seabed mineral mining lease.

Brown-Kola said the current legislative and regulatory review process was adequate to ensure that environmental, operational and financial concerns are addressed.

“We operate in conjunction with the Department of Mineral Policy and Geo-Hazards Management, which has responsibility of setting all mining policies. It is part of the mining ministerial portfolio.”

She said the government had been looking at the Solwara-1 project since 1997 and granted Nautilus the first offshore mineral exploration licence in 2008.

“We have been working with Nautilus for 14 years. It was only in this year we granted the company a mining licence.”

This followed two years of deliberations over their application.

 

 

Mix reactions over sackings

Highlands bloc rallies behind Duma and Polye

 

REACTIONS continue to be mixed on the sackings early this week of government ministers Don Polye and William Duma, The National reports.

As acting Prime Minister Sam Abal stuck by his decision to sack Polye as Foreign Affairs Minister and Duma as Petroleum and Energy Minister for the sake of solidarity, the country’s trade unions yesterday threw their support behind him, saying that national interest was paramount to Enga politics.

“Abal must stand firm and resolute in the face of adversity,” PNG Trade Union Congress general secretary John Paska said.

Another unlikely supporter was Morobe Governor Luther Wenge who said every political party in government should support Abal until incumbent Sir Michael Somare recovers from his heart operation in Singapore.

In Enga, deputy leader of the NA branch Chris Kandenge said Wednesday’s special meeting of the branch to expel Abal was

illegal, as it was convened by certain executives with self-interest.

Branch executive Yali Kaki said several party leaders in the province were underestimating Abal’s leadership qualities and should be voted out of office.

Their support for Abal’s action, however, was outweighed by support for the two sacked leaders from cabinet – Polye being the highlands bloc head of the ruling National Alliance and Duma being the parliamentary leader of United Resource Party, the second biggest party in the coalition.

The support, as expected, came from the highlands region where:

*In Western Highlands, Duma supporters held a peaceful demonstration, marching to Mt Hagen Queen’s Park to air their frustrations about the sackings; and

*In Eastern Highlands, two NA leaders warned that NA may lose its popularity in the region if Polye and Duma were not reinstated.

Reaction from the opposition parties and the business community remained subdued.

 

 

Hagen people protest sacking of ministers

By JAMES APA GUMUNO

 

NATIONAL Alliance and United Resource Party supporters in Western Highlands yesterday staged a peaceful protest march in Mt Hagen city over the sacking of two senior government ministers, The National reports.

The protesters gathered at Kimininga and marched to Queen’s Park where they were addressed by a number of speakers from the highlands region.

They demanded acting Prime Minister Sam Abal travel to Mt Hagen next week and tell them the truth behind the sacking of Don Polye and William Duma from the foreign affairs and immigration and petroleum and energy ministerial portfolios respectively.

Many speakers praised the two leaders’ performance at the national and international arena and did not deserve to be dumped in such a manner.

They said Abal’s claim the two men had not been performing and were trying to destabilise the government were very shallow.

Speaker Wan Kewa, from Kagamuga village in Hagen Central, said after the 2007 general election, Polye and Duma, as party leaders, brought with them enough MPs to help NA form government.

He said because of their contributions, Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare justly rewarded them with two senior ministries.

URP, of which Duma is the leader, boasts the second biggest political party in government.

Kewa said it would only be proper if the acting prime minister paid a visit next week “and tell us the truth”.

He also warned that any procrastination by the executive government would only inflame the situation further.

Protester Robin Aipi, from Muyan village in Enga’s Kandep district, called on Abal to tell the people what he had done for the country and his electorate.

He said Polye and Duma deserved praise because they had done a lot for the multi-billion-kina LNG project and for roadworks in the country.

Aipi said the country needed people like Polye and Duma to move forward.

Another protester from Jiwaka region, Pawa Wai, asked: “How can an acting prime minister sack two ministers who have shown true leadership at the national and international level?”

Wai said for the good of the country and its people, Polye and Duma “must be reinstated”.

Many Engans did not travel to Mt Hagen yesterday following news of the protest.

Gamar Iki, from the Enga provincial government media unit, confirmed many Engans decided against travelling to Mt Hagen yesterday.      

World Bank agrees to fund major roads

By JUNIOR UKAHA

 

THE national government and the World Bank have signed a US$43 million agreement to fund the rehabilitation of selected national and provincial roads in the country, The National reports.

The agreement was signed on Thursday in Port Moresby by World Bank country manager Laura Baily and Finance Minister Peter O’Neill.

It followed a previous agreement signed by both parties in 2002, which lapsed in 2009.

Papua New Guinea would provide US$10 million as counterpart funding.

The five-year project, ending in 2016, will be coordinated by the Department of Works under its second phase of road maintenance and rehabilitation project (RMRP II).

Baily said the signing was a “financial and legal document” that would see the PNG government and the World Bank work hand-in-hand to ensure important infrastructure services were delivered to the people.

Ten provinces will be covered under the programme – Central, Gulf, Western, East and West New Britain, Manus, Oro, Morobe, Madang and Milne Bay.

“In many parts of PNG, roads are more than just tarmacs,” Baily said.

“It is not just an investment in roads but an investment in the future and people of PNG,” she said.

Baily said the project was a sign of the ongoing commitment the World Bank had for the people of PNG.

O’Neill said infrastructure development was a key component of the government’s development strategies.

He said, in line with the MTDS, the government had since 2009 increased its funding allocations to rehabilitate roads and bridges.

“Roads give vital access for our people, and present them with the chance to utilise the public services the government provides, therefore, enhancing their involvement in economic growth,” he said.

Work will start on the Hiritano Highway in Central and the Kerema-Malalaua Highway in Gulf.

Hidden Valley Gold Mine engineered tailings storage facility considered a possible model for the industry

Caption: General manager Hidden Valley mine, Mark Mitchell explaining some of the features and mining operation strategies to Clant Alok and Dr Paul Ngabung at the Hidden Valley Kaveroi open pit - look out.

 

The Hidden Valley Gold mine’s engineered tailings storage facility (TSF) has been commended as a potential model for future tailings disposal options for mining projects in the country.

These were the comments from a group of participants from the National Government’s Central Agencies Coordinating Committee (CACC), provincial administrators and heads of commodity boards who visited the mine as part of the recently-completed 2011 priority impact projects conference in Lae last week.

The conference was held to further discussions as part of a first quarter review on the Crown Plaza Pronouncements earlier this year.

The group comprising a number of provincial administrators and senior government bureaucrats including Lawrence Disin (chief administrator for Bougainville), Dr Samson Amean (Enga), Raphael Yipmaramba (Central), Brigadier General Commander Francis Agwi (PNG Defence Force), Clant Alok (technical advisor tier 3), Gabriel Dusava (technical advisor) and Joseph Sukwianomb (director general programme support) from the Prime Minister’s Department were among 37 others who were impressed by the standards and practices they encountered during their visit.

Speaking on behalf of the tour group, Alok, one- time provincial administrator for Morobe and Madang provinces commended mine general manager Mark Mitchell, Joint Venture representatives, David Hume (Harmony Gold) and Brett Fletcher (Newcrest Mining) and senior mine employees of the impressive standards being practiced - highlighting in particular the construction and use of the tailing storage facility (TSF) for tailings disposal as at Hidden Valley, all tailings from the processing of ore are stored permanently in an engineered TSF.

“The general consensus and comments from this group today after touring the mine has been nothing but impressive” Alok said.

“Hidden Valley is emerging as the cream of the crop and we take our hats off to you in the way you conduct your business; in the confidence you have by appointing PNG nationals to senior managerial roles at the mine that are capable and experienced in the PNG mining industry.”

Along with other delegates, Alok pointed out the TSF structure, saying they had also noted the predominantly local workforce of more than 90% Papua New Guineans employed and the joint venture’s future plans to localise the mine management, the range of community and regional development projects and programmes for stakeholders and implementation of certain aspects of the mine’s closure plan in the areas of revegetation for a project that had only just begun operations.

“We have learnt a lot from this mine site today and will be taking these lessons and knowledge back to our superiors where we shall initiate discussions for inclusion into future plans and policy documents especially in the area of mining, related to tailings disposal,” Alok said.

Speaking on behalf of the Joint Venture partners, Harmony Mining Executive, David Hume thanked the delegates for taking the time to visit the mine operations saying stakeholder relationships were very important.

“We are delighted that you took this opportunity to visit the mine to observe the way we do business here and we look forward to working with you and building on these relationships as we continue to improve our practices into the future.”

Hidden Valley general manager Mark Mitchell also expressed his appreciation and thanked the delegates for taking the journey to visit the mine.

The delegation indicated through senior bureaucrats there was every intention for future visits from government to work with and learn more from Hidden Valley mine operations.

Morobe Mining Joint Ventures empowers village women

Participants show off their certificates, birthing kits, shirts and caps with representatives from MMJV, trainers and government officers. The shirts and caps are  part of the Healthy Baby campaign known as ‘Malolo Liklik’, supported by the National Health Department and Population Services International.

The Bulolo district health division in partnership with Morobe Mining Joint Ventures (MMJV) are committed to empowering village women through village birth attendant (VBA) training as a means of reducing infant and maternal mortality in the Bulolo district of Morobe province.

Recently, 25 women from the Biangai villages in Wau were the recipients of the second such training funded by MMJV when qualifying for certificates after a successful two-week course.
The women were also certified as village volunteers responsible for tuberculosis patients in their villages and as an added bonus, were presented complete birthing kits containing items such as buckets, lamps, gloves and razor blades to assist with a clean and safe delivery thanks to Zonta Birthing Kits Foundation of Australia (ZIFA).
ZIFA is part of the Zonta International Foundation worldwide organisation that supports programmes to improve the wellbeing of women and girls everywhere.
According to Zonta PNG representative, Pedro Jericho, Bulolo district was the first to receive the birthing kits outside of NCD which were the only recipients so far through donations to St Johns and the Port Moresby General Hospital.
“Thanks to MMJV this relationship marks the first time for Zonta’s programme to be extended beyond NCD and shows what we can achieve by pooling resources and networking together and we look forward to continuing this relationship,” he said.
MMJV general manager sustainability and external Relations, David Wissink stressed the importance of partnerships in making sure programmes such as the VBA training and aid posts were completed and sustained.
He said for any programme, facility or training to be effective, the participation of stakeholders was needed in the form of sweat equity or contribution to ensure ownership and commitment for the long term benefit of everyone.
“At MMJV, this PPP approach applies with all our other partners and we remain committed to continuing the relationship with the provincial health division and non-government organisations to implement health programmes aimed at further improving the lives of our stakeholders,” Wissink said.
Provincial programme advisor – health, Dr Likei Theo commended the partnership saying together MMJV and the provincial health division were working at addressing these issues according to the national government’s plan of reducing maternal mortality rate.
The VBA training was conducted by experienced Bulolo district health VBA trainer, Sr Rose Bosimbe while the TB component was conducted by Huon Gulf district advocacy communication & social mobilisation (ACSM) coordinator, Millie Meren.
The women from Wau are the second lot to receive the training.
The first were from the landowner villages of the Wafi project.
Similarly, they were taught theory and practical lessons on clean and safe delivery and to identify signs of complications in mothers during pregnancy and when to refer them to seek medical help.
Part of their practical lesson involved a visit to the Bulolo hospital where they assisted in the delivery of a baby.

Logistics a problem for fishing industry

By ANCILLA WRAKUALE

 

LOGISTICS problem was identified as a major challenge for the fishing industry in PNG, given the escalating fuel prices and lack of transport access to certain parts of the country, The National reports.

Speaking at the fishing industry consultation meeting, managing director of Maru Mine Ltd, Meremi Maina said the fish industry was very demanding but issues such as logistics problems was a main setback.

Maina, who owns a fishing company in Daru, Western, said fishing was a challenging business and required strong fishing skills as well as knowledge on preserving methods to keep the fish fresh.

He said most of the lobsters and prawns from his factory were transported by air to Port Moresby and was a very costly exercise.

As a way of minimising operational costs, Maina has set up village buyers and assisted them with fuel and dinghies to buy fish from the villagers and transport to his factory.

He said concerned authority such as National Fisheries Authority should focus more on smaller players in the industry and not so much on big established fish factories.

Maru Marine Ltd exports more than 90% of its lobsters to Australia with the first initial export of 10 tonnes of lobster to the United States recently.

Other products from Maru Marine such as prawn, lobster and finfish are supplied to hotels and restaurants in Port Moresby.

Maina, who could be the longest serving national in the fishing industry having recently celebrated his 27th year in business, said money was not the issue but it was one’s determination and commitment to succeed in life.

 

Abal stands firm

ACTING Prime Minister Sam Abal was unmoved last night by news that he had been expelled by a group, purporting to be the Enga branch of the National Alliance party, The National reports.

A statement announcing the expulsion was signed by Paul Kurai as chairman, Kundapen Talyaga as secretary, treasurer Luke Kembol and foundation member Rex Paki.

Also yesterday, a faction of the United Resource Party, led by leader William Duma, dumped Minister assisting the Prime Minister on constitutional matters Francis Potape as a member of the party.

Both actions stemmed from the sacking of deputy leader of NA highlands Don Polye as Foreign Affairs Minister and URP leader William Duma as Petroleum and Energy Minister last Friday by Abal.

An aide of Abal said last night the acting prime minister was unperturbed by the purported sacking and that, as a financial member of National Alliance, certain processes and procedures, stipulated under the NA constitution, would need to be followed.

In any case, sacking a parliamentary party member was the prerogative of the party leader and nobody else.

He said NA President Simon Kaiwi conveyed the same to the acting PM last night.

Registrar of political parties Sir Kina Bona denied knowledge of the two purported sackings, but said any such move would have to comply with the constitution of each party.

In related moves:

* The URP had expressed disappointment over the “lack of professionalism” in the sacking of their parliamentary leader and minister for petroleum and energy;

* The URP itself appeared split on the issue with only three MPs present and Potape denying there was any meeting where his sacking was formalised; and

* A protest march over the double sacking was scheduled for Mt Hagen city, Duma’s electorate, today. But, it was uncertain last night whether police would  approve the march.

Abal was said to be unperturbed and “ready to get on with the business of government”.

“The acting prime minister has the support of the Grand Chief (Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare) who was informed through his family of the sackings,” the aide said.

“The entire highlands NA members, except Polye, have endorsed Sir Michael’s choice of Abal as the DPM and acting PM.

“All the regional NA membership have endorsed Sir Michael’s choice.

“All government coalition parties have pledged their support.

“Abal carries the full powers, duties and responsibilities of the prime minister.”

United Resource Party slams manner in which Duma was sacked

THE United Resource Party has expressed disappointment over the manner their parliamentary leader and Minister for Petroleum and Energy William Duma was sacked, The National reports.

Deputy leader and Eastern Highlands Governor Malcolm Kela-Smith, in a media conference with Duma and Dei MP Puri Ruing expressed disappointment over the method of communication by acting Prime Minister Sam Abal.

“We feel there is lack of professionalism,” Kela-Smith said.

Duma said he had yet to receive any formal letter of dismissal from Abal and he only learnt of his sacking in the media.

He said the URP had been meeting since Monday and the party had not made a formal decision on its position on the sacking.

“We do not know whether the removal of the party leader also means the party is also expelled from government.

“As the leader of the second largest coalition party in government, I have not been informed of my removal. I learnt it in the media and I feel disappointed.”

Duma said URP had a special relationship with Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare and had been very loyal since 2002 and URP was also a signatory to the Warangoi Accord to form government.

Duma also said his people and supporters in Mt Hagen were also disappointed over the sacking.

He said the media speculations that the petroleum and energy portfolio would go to another URP member was not true as it was the prerogative of the prime minister to make appointments.

“Not one single party has the right to claim a ministerial portfolio,” Duma said.

 

Lenalia to head probe

KOKOPO-based judge Justice Salatiel Lenalia replaces Sir Kubulan Los as chairman of the Arthur Somare leadership tribunal, The National reports.

The tribunal will begin sitting on July 4 at 9.30am at the Waigani National and Supreme Court room No.7.

At that time, Somare, the member for Angoram and Minister for Public Enterprises, will know whether he is suspended from office for the duration of the tribunal.

Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia made the announcement in Port Moresby yesterday, confirming that the two other members of the tribunal would remain. They are principal magistrate Orim Karapo and senior magistrate Noreen Kanasa, who were appointed in 2006 by the former (and now deceased) Chief Justice Sir Mari Kapi.

The appointment of the new chairman followed the decision of the National Court last Friday, in OS No. 818 of 2006 (judicial review) Arthur Somare versus Ila Geno & Others, which dismissed those proceedings.

Sir Salamo said last Friday’s decision handed down by Deputy Chief Justice Gibbs Salika effectively paved the way for the new chairman to be appointed.

Sir Kubulan has retired. 

In a statement yesterday, the chief justice invited parties to file necessary documents to the tribunal via the National Court registry.

In reference to whether the leader holds office during the duration of the tribunal hearing, the CJ said in a media statement that “for avoidance of doubt, pursuant to section 28 of the Organic Law on Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership and the latest decision of the Supreme Court on the question of suspension in Patrick Pruaitch V Chronox Manek & Others (2011) SC 1093, the question of suspension, if any, is to be determined by the tribunal”.

The tribunal will look into allegations of official misconduct against Somare.

Sir Mekere Morauta - the great reformer of our times

By REGINALD RENAGI

 

While he did not remain long in office, this Papuan Knight and former PNG Prime Minister; Sir Mekere Morauta will long be remembered over his peers as a great political reformist.

Among important policy changes he did as a PM, the citizens have come to remember him well for his fundamental reforms in PNG’s financial sector. 

Unlike other former PMs who lacked the political will and commitment to make a difference, Sir Mekere inherited his predecessor’s liability and immediately cleaned up any remaining problem areas in the country’s financial sector. 

As PM, Sir Mekere reformed the following public entities:

·         Minerals Resources Development Corporation (MRDC).  Key actions taken were: To protect the landowner interest groups, pushed for legislation removing political interference by MPs, regulatory regime similar to the Superannuation Act 2000, outsourcing investment management, Central Bank oversight and a ‘fit and proper persons’ test.

·         Workers Mutual Insurance.    To protect many thousands of contributors, he re-established the Worker’s Mutual Insurance at a cost of K 19 million, outsourcing investment management and conducted a major inquiry into its collapse as prelude to reforms of the existing Insurance Act.

·         Pacific Balanced Fund.  Acting on major Inquiry recommendations, resolved current impasse by appointing new trustees and investment manager.

·         Securities Commission.  The commission was revamped to strengthen its weak and ineffective status.  This action gave it stronger powers and independence to pursue white-collar criminal activity by corporate bodies.

·         Rural Development Bank (now called the National Development Bank – NDB).  The bank was continually under capitalised with much political interference.  A review of the new act followed to protect the interests of small rural-based entrepreneurs.  With current regulatory regime the NDB under the Central Bank includes: appointment of independent directors similar to the old IPBC board make up of ex officio directors and a fit and proper persons test.

The financial reforms greatly improved the efficiency of the economy which among other things: restored independence to the IPBC, facilitated instructions to IPBC as a matter of priority to develop ‘community service obligations’ in such important areas of: power, water, telecommunications and airlines to deliver services to rural PNG. 

The commitment to phase out the former Telikom monopoly by increasing competition in telecommunications, and other monopoly service providers achieved positive outcomes: increase in jobs, services and tax revenues.

Furthermore, a full review and reform of the Electoral Commission included: an audit of existing roles, registration of eligible voters and more voter awareness education programmes.

To further boost the national economy, his plans to phase in competition in the airlines and to establish an Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC) with wide sweeping powers were mooted widely then, but Sir Mekere did not finish what he started when he left to hand over to a new administration after the 2002 national elections.

Presently, the last two political regimes under the current government have consistently demonstrated an inability to initiate much-needed political reforms from where this great reformist PM left off.

Despite pressing needs, current PM has unfortunately not ensured real and innovative political reforms to improve the country’s financial sector.   

Papua New Guineans are only hoping and praying that our country gets another reformist leader like Sir Mekere Morauta after the 2012 national elections to make the required political reforms PNG so desperately needs in future.

 

Basil engages with rural communities in the highlands

Sam Basil flanked with Kiamuga  congregation members,  Eastern Highlands province

Deputy Leader of Opposition Sam Basil has began engaging with rural population to educate them on current state of the nation, parliament and politics in general.

Sam Basil and Francis Kap in Peace Valley Village , Baiyer  River Western Highlands province

“The people must know what their leaders are doing and the state of the nation as a result of that leadership. It’s their right – and it should be our privilege to serve them in this way,” Basil said.

In what was his first official trip since becoming Deputy Leader of Opposition, Basil travelled to Mul-Baiyer electorate to one of Lae’s long time businessman Koi Trappe to pay respects to Trappe’s late mother, Ms Mano Enta on Saturday June 4.

Trappe is the managing director of Traisa Transport one of the premier transport companies operating between Lae and Highlands for over 30 years contributing to Lae’s economic development.

Koi’s contribution to Morobe, Highlands and Papua New Guinea prompted Basil, on behalf of Morobe leaders, people and the Opposition,  to show respect and contribute K2,000 to the haus krai at Kenakyausa village Mul-Baiyer District.

The Tralea tribe asked Basil to give a brief about the current affairs of the nation, parliament and politics in PNG.

Basil told the Tralea tribe that while the overall economic indicators show that PNG was growing, basic processes of governance were not being handled right resulting in a mismatch between economic indicators and social development indicators.

He described the Mul-Baiyer District as another hidden paradise which like many others in PNG were so unique with wonderful people struggling to make life bearable for themselves and their children.

“They don’t need much to be satisfied – access to roads, transport and markets; functioning, stocked, and adequately staffed basic health services; utilities like piped water, communication and power are all that they need,” Basil said.

“These will be our focus as an alternative Government: when in power we will empower the rural communities with this basic services.”

Basil worshipped with the Kiamuga Lutheran congregation of Yamiyufa Lutheran Church in the Lower Asaro area in the Eastern Highland province on the way back where he donated K1,000 to the local church.

In a brief statement, on the current state of the nation and Parliament, he assured them that the alternative government would ensure that the government and churches partnership was adequately resourced to develop citizens of integrity, honesty and respect – keys to law, order and harmonious living in communities, districts, provinces and PNG as a whole.

The experience has fuelled the Deputy Opposition Leader’s resolve to tour as many rural electorates – upon invitation – educating them on the parliament, national issues and politics and hearing what the grassroots people of Papua New Guinea have to say. 

Basil queries delay on finance inquiry report and actions

Deputy Leader of Opposition and Bulolo MP Sam Basil has called on the Government to explain the delay on what is the most-expensive and prolonged commission of inquiry – the one into the Department of Finance since 2007.

"Many months and many millions of kina went into the Commission of Inquiry into the Department of Finance. And what have we got to show for it?" Basil said.

The Inquiry was looking into over 3000 entries recorded in the Finance Department's Cash Book Report of transactions of K300,000 and above from 1 January 2000 to 31 July 2006.

This was later expended.

"We cannot implement its recommendations. People who have committed crimes cannot even be charged. Money that should not have been paid cannot be recovered," a concerned Mr Basil said.

The Bulolo MP described as "puzzling" the fact that a successful court order was made to effectively "put a lock on that report" when millions (up to K10 million) was already spent to ensure that hearings and findings were recorded.

"Many people in this nation are no doubt suspicious about that order: how it came to be made, when it came to be made and where it came to be made," Basil added.

"But we, of the Opposition, respect the fact that a judge of the National Court chose to make such an order. The questions which must now be asked, given the many months which have elaspsed since that order was made, are (1) why has nothing been done about that order? and (2) when will something be done?"

The Deputy Opposition Leader added: "If the gag order was made as a temporary order by a National Court judge then the matter should have been taken before another judge with an application to set that order aside. Alternatively, the order of the National Court should have been the subject of an appeal to the Supreme Court, coupled with a request to have the matter heard as a matter of urgency."

The opposition pointed out that the directions to follow-up falls within the duty statement or jurisdiction of the Minister for Justice and Attorney General Hon Sir Arnold Amet.

"This is an area for which the Attorney General is responsible. As a former Chief Justice, the learned lawyer, cannot use ignorance of the law and judicial process as an excuse," Basil said.

"If the Attorney General cannot entrust this instructions to the State Solicitor to try to get rid of this gag order because of potential conflict of interest arising from contents of the Commission of Inquiry Report, what's to stop Sir Arnold outsourcing the matter for a private law firm to do something about it as soon as possible?" He said.

"But the bottom line is: millions of taxpayers' money – supposed to be used for the benefit of the people – has been abused in questionable ways by those entrusted to ensure proper usage. These public servants – and their political masters – are all paid to do these jobs," Mr Basil said.

"If they failed and mishandled funds, they must face the consequences of their actions. The Commission of Inquiry cost the taxpayers another K10 million or so to hear, ascertain and determine its findings. The people cannot be double-denied justice because no one is attempting to free the report from the court gagging," Basil said.

Health is next

Abal demands answers over use of donor funds

 

ACTING Prime Minister Sam Abal has ordered an investigation into allegations of gross abuse and mismanagement of funds earmarked for Papua New Guinea under the Global Fund for the fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic, The National reports.

He directed Health Minister Sasa Zibe, in a letter last week, for an urgent report on the allegations.

He reiterated that if found to contain gross irregularities, abuse and mismanagement, he would instruct for a full inquiry into the administration of the funds.

Adamant to see his undertaking through and to ensure Papua New Guinea safeguarded its credibility as a legi-timate and credible donor-recipient country, Abal had demanded an urgent response from Zibe.

“I have directed the health minister to look into this allegation and report to me immediately on whether the allegation is true,” Abal said.

Abal said: “I am concerned that unless the government takes full cognizance and control of this matter, we stand to lose our legitimacy as a worthy, credible and trusted recipient of international donor aid and technical assistance.

“If unscrupulous persons are involved, they will be identified and dealt with severely.

“Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken to stop such practices,” the acting prime minister said.

“I want our institutions of government to be good and trusted custodians of financial support being made available to assist PNG by international organisations, charitable groups, governments and philanthropic organisations to help improve our social conditions such as health.”

Global Fund this month decided to select a new principle recipient to carry out some of the financial and administrative responsibilities previously carried out by the Health Department.

This followed allegations that the department was mismanaging the grants.

Abal said: “These are monies meant to complement the government’s own effort to reduce life-threatening scourges and epidemics such as HIV/AIDS that focuses ultimately on making this nation a healthy and progressive nation.

“Monies for purposes such as this must be governed with accountability of purpose.

“As acting Prime Minister, I will not tolerate such practices going on inside government instrumentalities.

“There are enough examples around us and we must seek collective resolve to stop such malpractices once and for all,” Abal said.

 

Car theft turns ugly for youths

Carjacking ends in disaster … Paramedics from the St John Ambulance service in Port Moresby attending to two wounded suspects (pictured left and right) after an exchange of gunfire with police yesterday following an alleged carjacking incident. Another suspect, who is lying next to the right rear wheel of the stolen dark blue CRV, reportedly died. However, there were no external wounds on the dead person to justify him being shot. Two others fled on foot when they were cornered near the Tokam Police Barracks

at Waigani. – Nationalpic by EKAR KEAPU

 

By ANGELINE KARIUS

 

A SUSPECT is dead while two others suffered gunshot wounds in a shootout with police outside the Tokam Police Barracks in Port Moresby yesterday, The National reports.

The three were part of a gang believed to have stolen a dark-blue CRV, registration BCF 474, at Gerehu yesterday afternoon.

Police gave chase from the university roundabout at about 2pm.

Police reportedly returned fire after the suspects began shooting, wounding two in the process, one died after being cornered and disarmed while two others fled the scene.

Police could not confirm whether the man who died at the scene was shot.

The five men were caught when their getaway vehicle ran off the road and into a ditch along Cormorant Street, opposite the Boreboa Primary School after crashing into several other vehicles, including a police double-cab utility.

The shootout attracted hundreds of people from the neighbourhood with police directing traffic at the intersection between Cormorant and Pitpit streets in the North Waigani area.

Several support units from police stations around Port Moresby responded to the carjacking when the matter was reported and relayed on police radio.

NCD metropolitan commander Supt Joseph Tondop could not be reached for comments.

Agiru called on to explain investigation

By YVONNE HAIP

 

PARENTS and teachers in Southern Highlands are calling on Governor Anderson Agiru to explain why the findings of an investigation team into falling education standards have yet to be made public, The National reports.

The provincial government sanctioned an investigation in January to look into the drop in standards of education in the province.

The investigation team was set up after examination results showed the pass rate of students in secondary schools was in a downward spiral.

But James Waiya Mange, who taught for more than 40 years, said the investigating team had yet to start work.

Speaking on behalf of parents, concerned citizens, teachers, boards of governors and other stakeholders, he said the long delay, especially as it was already mid-year, was a concern.

He said school examinations were around the corner once term two ended and the findings of the investigation needed to be made known.

He said the very poor output of all provincial secondary schools showed Grade 10 and Grade 12 marks continued to drop.

He said that resulted in most students missing out on spaces in tertiary institutions.

Mange said the prompt action taken by the governor and his administration in appointing and funding the team of investigators had been timely, the people had yet to know the probe’s results.

He said if the provincial administration had attended to all its obligations, there would not have been unnecessary delay as it was taking five months to get the committee assembled in Mendi and move into the districts.

He said along with the progress of the rich LNG project, the province needed to build its human resources so that the younger generation could take part meaningfully as the project developed.