PNG Deputy PM Basil urges Saonu on Wafi-Golpu Mine Project

The first business plans endorsed by the Morobe Provincial Government and presented to the National Government failed to capture more landowners, who are missing out, on the upcoming Wafi-Golpu Mine project.

Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister and National Planning and Monitoring Minister, Sam Basil used last week’s Wafi-Golpu consultation meeting in Lae to call on Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu to review its position paper.

Mr. Basil said there is also a potential to have another new group of landowners, especially from where the mine tailings will be disposed of, who were not initially contained in the mine impact recognized areas, and the business models pushed by the Morobe Provincial Government want them included.

Mr. Basil said working together for the benefit of the people is important and also reminded everyone that the government, at all three levels, and the people need to benefit from the fiscal revenue from the project.

He said there is a need to include all landowners into business plans, especially in the three districts of Bulolo, Huon Gulf, and Lae.

Governor Saonu in response says the provincial executive council has resolved to review that position paper submitted earlier, to cater for all affected landowners inside and outside the Special Mining Lease Area 10, in light of the recent developments in the province.

Meantime, the Morobe Provincial Government has set up a special working committee to work on all presentations on the Deep Sea Tailings Placement system for the Wafi - Golpu project.

Governor Ginson Saonu says this is in line with the call by the Minister for Environment and Conservation, Wera Mori, for a committee to put forward all alternatives presented from last weeks' meeting in Lae, and find a way forward for final discussions to be held.

He said many presenters discussed their alternatives, and this shows that Morobe is ready with alternatives apart from the DSTP proposed by the developer.

Mr. Saonu says the developers, which include Harmony and Newcrest, are signatories to the International Council on Mining and Metals and World Gold Council and are obligated to develop the project in line with the best practice of International Mining Standards.

He also thanked the National Government for respecting their stance on not having any DSTP for the project.

The Morobe Governor always maintains his people's position that they do not like the Deep-Sea Tailings Placement system for the Wafi - Golpu project as proposed by the developer.

NBC News/ PNG Today

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