Thatchenko backs Parkop on betel nut ban

Hon Justin Thatchenko

Member for Moresby South, Justin Thatchenko says betel nut ban in the nations capital is good for the country.

Speaking in support of Governor Powes Pakop's move, Mr Thatchenko says, it's a way forward to make Port Moresby a better city for all.

He says the move by N-C-D Authorities is no different to similar arrangements used in other centres in the country.

"We look at Kundiawa town, we look at Goroka where is the betel-nut market located?

"Most betelnut is sold outside of city limits in most Provinces.

"So, it's nothing new.

"Yes, we all love to chew but we have to do it sensibly and in a smart way.

"Governor's made a bold decision to ban it in the city that at the end of the day, it will be to the benefit of everybody.

"And especially when we've got the Pacific games coming up, we've got APEC coming up, Melanesian Art Festival coming up, and all these big international events.

"We want to see a change in our city where we can be proud of, and this is all part of the cleaning up act," Minister Tkatchenko said.