Port Moresby, PNG: FOUR MPs in Enga are concerned about the ongoing impact of the closure of the Porgera mine and the lack of options to get it going again.
Kompiam-Ambum MP Sir John Pundari, Wapenamanda MP Rimbink Pato, Kandep MP Alfred Manase and Lagaip-Porgera MP Tomait Kapili in a statement said no consideration had been given to what was in the best interest of landowners and Engans.
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| PNG Enga Parliamentarians |
They said Barrick Niugini Ltd’s substantial investment was given little regard, damaging the mine operator’s business confidence and other investors as well.
The MPs called for clear heads to discuss restarting the mine which was closed early this year after the Government refused to renew a special mining lease to Barrick.
“When Barrick stopped operation, substantial Government revenue was lost and 3,500 jobs.
“Contractors and subcontractors income were also lost which adversely impacted family livelihoods,” the statement said.
The MPs called on Prime Minister James Marape to find a win-win solution for all stakeholders rather than focusing on nationalistic demands.
“We have been calling on the proper accounting of the Porgera mine over the last 30 years of all money that have been paid to the Enga government and demand the returns be paid to the Enga people,” the statement said.
“We require equitable distribution of increased equity and royalties to the Porgera mine lease landowners and the five districts of Enga and to exclude the provincial government.
“The provincial government has over the last 30 years received all benefits including royalties on behalf of the Engan people.
“We were not consulted properly over the decision whether or not to extend the Porgera mine lease to Barrick and its consequential impacts of its non-renewal.”
Statement
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