THE Papua New Guinea Government wants to see the next 10 years of the Porgera mine operation not “wasted” like in the past 30 years, says Prime Minister James Marape.
He told a security forum last Thursday in Paiam town, Porgera, Enga, that tribal fighting should stop and law and order maintained in the area.
He apologised for the closure of the mine over the past four years but said “it was a short-term pain for long-term gains”.
“We have wasted 30 years with the benefits, and there is nothing to show for,” he said.
“And yet we complain (about) the four years of closure to negotiate for more.
“You must stop your tribal fights, drop your guns and pick up businesses from the mine.
“The Government, police and the security forces will come down hard on you if you keep on fighting.
“The people have suffered enough.
“The fights must stop.”
More than K18 million was allocated to the Enga government, Porgera Development Authority and Paiam town to start preparations for the development forum in Wabag next month.
The Government also allocated K700 million as an infrastructure development grant.
It will be used to address outstanding issues such as the resettlement of people away from the mine area.
Marape also told those causing trouble to return to their provinces and villages.
The first gold revenue from the new Porgera Mine is expected from October.
The Government will issue or sign the mining licence by the end of next month following the mine development forum, Marape said.
Statement / The National / Pacific Mining Watch
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