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State Approves Permit Submission for Simberi Mine

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The State has approved regulatory requirements for Simberi Mine under the Environmental Act.

Environment Conservation and Climate Change Minister Pogio Ghate and senior officials were in New Ireland recently to sign formal documents.

Ghate said people’s lifestyle are very important to the environment around them and it is crucial for the mining company to comply with regulations set by authorities.

Upon seeing the impacted areas Ghate was pleased with the work done by the mining company and acknowledged the landowners of which the project is situated, the company and other stakeholders for their efforts.

Minister Ghate said Papua New Guinea is also part of the international community to uphold multilateral commitment to conserve biodiversity and conservation.

“It is my duty to see this implemented by developers to achieve its goals as signed in the international forum,” said Ghate.

“I would like to see Simberi Mine support the Government by implementing climate change resilient strategies by thinking globally and act locally. This is critical to see the mine life extension to 2032,” said Minister Ghate.

He said it is important for the mine to continue its disposal of waste be contained in the mine proximity with no harm to the local environment.

“The mine has continued supporting the economy of Papua New Guinea and it is paramount to continue its production at the same time uphold environment obligations,” added Minister Ghate.

Ghate said the signing and issuing of approved principles paves way for the amended permit by State agencies responsible as the mine continues its operation.

Managing Director for Conservation Environment and Protection Authority(CEPA) Gunta Joku said Simberi Mine had done well and have gone through all the necessary documents, submitted the inception report, the Environment impact assessment and have prepared the environment impact statement which they have submitted.

Joku said CEPA received the impacted statement and had consulted on it before submitting to NAC for review and also other government agencies and other stakeholders for further comments.

MD Joku added that the Environmental Council (an Independent Advisory Council) are satisfied and based on that assessment were able to recommend for approval.

Simberi Mine Managing Director Randy MacMahon when acknowledging the Minister said it was better for the Minister to visit the mine and see for himself before giving the State’s backing and approval.

“It’s good to have someone in your possession that wants to ensure things are fit and proper,” said MacMahon.

He thanked the Minister for his time in visiting the mining site despite the 2022 General election period and wish him good luck for the election.

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Taskul Community in NIP Call For Help Following Killings

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Community leaders in Taskul Station in New Ireland are calling on State agencies to intervene and arrest suspects involved in the killing of two teenagers over the weekend.

A police officer based in Taskul said they remain helpless due to the limited number of police personnel.

Senior Sergeant, Andrew Koma said Taskul needs urgent manpower as law and order issues spiral out of control.

“About two of us are working and it’s very difficult to address such cases. We can’t do much and we remain helpless,” said Sergeant Koma.

According to a local source, the killing is a retaliation of a double murder case that happened last month and was not addressed by the rural police command.

One of the deceased, a fifth grade student at Taskul Primary School had his arms chopped off at the elbows and his stomach gruesomely slashed.

The barbaric killing took place at 7am on Sunday (June 12) at the Taskul Government Station in front of helpless public servants, a regular police officer and families of Government workers based there.

Lavongai LLG Manager, Renson Warakurai said countless ethnic clashes continue to cause unnecessary deaths in this part of New Ireland. He said people are now living in fear. As an eye witness to the killings, Warakurai appealed to levels of Government to work with locals to fix the problem urgently.

“Our leaders including police must take drastic action to enforce law and order and bring peace to communities,” said the LLG Manager.

He also urged New Ireland Police to engage more police personal to Taskul Station since it’s a Government established area.

“The islanders are living in fear following the rise in clashes,” said Warakurai.

The Lavongai LLG Manager said many villagers remain wounded following ethnic clashes; and there is fear of more acts of retaliation among the islanders to come.

“I call on Sir Julius Chan, Ian Ling-Stuckey, the Provincial Administrator and Police to intervene urgently and do something.”

He said this may also affect communities as polling nears.

Taskul Ward 1 Councillor, Julie Kuama appealed for swift intervention by sending additional police to make arrest and monitor the situation. She said a number of customary obligation have not been helpful as a resolve to address clashes.

“We need police to walk this island and if need be use force to apprehend suspects and maintain order in the Community, said Kuama.

New Ireland PPC, Felix Nebanat

Meanwhile New Ireland Provincial Police Commander, Senior Inspector Felix Nebanat has issued a 7 day ultimatum to over 40 accomplices involved in the killing of the two youth.

PPC Nebanat said if no one surrenders, police will launch an operation into the Taskul area. He warned those involved to voluntarily surrender to authorities.

Nebanat assured islanders in Taskul that police will re-organize with the limited resources and make an insertion into Taskul to address the issue.

The New Ireland PPC said a meeting will be held later this week with the Provincial Law and Order Committee to purposely work out a plan to address this matter going forward.

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Black Orchids Embraced Upon Arrival in Buka

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The victorious performance of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville’s Black Orchids Rugby Sevens team at the 2022 Sports Tok 7s’ Tournament in Port Moresby has given hope to sporting elites of AROB taking part in international sporting events.

This message was echoed when the Black Orchids Team were welcomed by AROB President Ishmael Toroama upon their arrival in Buka Town Tuesday (June 14).

President Toroama said their victory has paved the way for the region to start taking part in international sporting events such as the Pacific Games.

“Our young men have taken on the very best in the country and came out victorious as the champions of the tournament,” President Toroama said.

“As we prepare for statehood we must also develop our people through sporting codes such as Rugby Union,” added President Toroama.

“Our next biggest task is getting Team AROB prepared for the Pacific Games. It is an agenda we will pursue and make it a reality,” President Toroama said.

 

President Toroama also expressed his gratitude to Sitting Bougaiville Regional member, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr for his hard work in developing the code of Rugby Union in Bougainville communities.

 
 

The Black Orchids’ victorious homecoming was on the eve of the 17th Anniversary of the formation of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

 

The Team also participated in the recent KPHL Super 7’s held at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium last month.

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Toroama: 2022 NGE Critical for AROB’s Wish for Independence

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President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama says the 2022 Papua New Guinea National General Election will be the final election that Bougainville will take part in as the Island Region prepares for the final political settlement (not before 2025 and no later than 2027) in the quest for political independence.

 

President Toroama said the 2022 National Election is very crucial for the future of Bougainville as people elect their representatives in the 11th National Parliament.

 

“These leaders will determine our future based on their loyalty to Bougainville and commitment to serving our wish for independence that was expressed in 2019 Bougainville Referendum,” said Toroama.

 

The AROB President urged every Bougainvillean to look beyond campaign promises of monetary gain and delusions of grandeur that is evident during any election.

 

“We must vote for a person who will represent Bougainville and be the voice of the Autonomous Bougainville Government in Parliament.

 

President Toroama urged the voting population to vote for a leader who will not compromise the political resolve for Bougainville and one who is not afraid to stand within the halls of the National Parliament and fight for Bougainville’s Independence as a sovereign nation,” added President Toroama.

 

Toroama said AROB need leaders who will not succumb to the pressures of party politics and comprise. The President said AROB needs leaders who can proudly say the word Independence without looking over their shoulder.

 

“We must honor the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the memory of the twenty thousand lives lost during the Bougainville Civil War by electing leaders who will work with the ABG and truly drive forward the aspirations of our people,” said Toroama.

 

The AROB President also reminded people to maintain civility during the election period and to respect the electoral process as campaign is underway while polling and counting nears.

 

Toroama concluded by wishing all the candidates the best in their campaigning.

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ABG Develops Long Term Development Plan

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The Autonomous Bougainville Government is formulating a development plan that will look at improving development in the governance, infrastructure, economic and social sectors.

 

The Bougainville Vision and Strategic Development Plan 2052 is made up of Bougainville’s development objectives, strategies and financing plans to improve the region’s key development priorities.

 

Bougainville President, Ishmael Toroama said his government’s vision is for a prosperous, educated, healthy and sovereign Bougainville by 2052.

 

“The BVSDP 2052 will look at improving human development and capacity and focus on education and human resource development,’’ President Toroama said.

 

‘’It will emphasize on the provision of basic services to address the human needs on food security, shelter, health and security. Moreover, it will look at an overarching long term economic development plan for Bougainville,’’ added Toroama.

 

The Bougainville Vision and Strategic Development Plan 2052 is part and parcel of President Toroama’s Six Point Strategy under Point 5: Long Term Vision and Planning.

 

Its creation will be derived from the alignment of each of the ABG’s departments sector plans and will be integrated into the Bougainville Vision and Strategic Development Plan 2052.

 

The thirty-year plan is focused on independence readiness as well as the post-independence period where a future independent Bougainville government will work towards setting the foundations of all sectors of government for Bougainville.

 

‘’I want to encourage our Ministers and Departmental Heads to continue work to hard. We are at a transitionary phase from autonomy to independence where we are creating a new chapter for Bougainville,’’ said President Toroama.

 

‘’This requires us to be innovative and absolute in our commitment to Bougainville as we introduce new ideas, new ways of doing things and a new mindset that is focused on political independence that is complemented by socioeconomic growth,’’ President Toroama said.

 

‘’We all share a co-dependency in our existence as a people and government so we must work hard and collaborate at all sectors of development to ensure it is tangible and far reaching as possible,’’ President Toroama said.

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Sport

Black Orchids win Sports Tok 7s

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There was a certain bloom at the Cup final of the Sports Tok 7s, the Black Orchids from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville shone brightly after a lengthy absence, coming back onto the rugby sevens’ scene with a hard fought win over the Nova Rugby Club.

The fifth installment of the annual sevens tournament was highly competitive, with the Orchids defeating last year’s winners the Brothers Rugby Club in the Cup semifinals to guarantee their spot in the Cup final; the Orchids led by Captain Erick Kaiat were impressive, despite being held 5-5 in a cagey first half.

The Orchids with their open style play spread their attack and used their speed to score two tries to advance to a 17 – 5 lead in the second half, before Nova closed the match with a try right on fulltime, but it was still not enough for a win for the Novas.

Orchids still came out on top 2022 winners of the Sports Tok 7s Cup with a fulltime score at 17-10.

Erick Kaiat is one of the most senior players in the Orchids side and Captained the team in an impressive win.

Despite a lapse in sevens rugby in the Autonomous Region, the team managed to pull together a mix of youth and experience to show their dominance in the tournament.

“Preparation was for two months and all that hard work has shown, we have found that winning formula and I am proud to be the captain, I told the boys that I will lead the team to a win in Port Moresby and now all the boys are ecstatic with the outcome,” a joyous Kaiat said.

The Orchids decided to stay on after an impressive Kumul Petroleum Holdings National Sevens series outing, the team from the “San kamap” region finished third overall in the provincial series, this Cup win was the icing on the cake for the Orchids, taking home K10, 000 prize money with a new set of jersies from Tati Sports.

As complimentary, the Orchids will be flying to the Autonomous region with the fifth year Sports Tok 7’s commemorative Cup as well.

To top it all off Kaiat was named the Paul Joseph player of the tournament, well deserving for the veteran, who has been a stalwart for the Orchids through their finer years and now their resurgence.

“Player of the tournament!”, I have no words to express this feeling, I have never been given an award in past tournaments, the supporters have been great and that has been a motivating factor in my performance I would like to thank the tournament host for the award and I dedicate it to the fans that turned up to support,” Kaiat said.

Meanwhile, the Rabaul Stallions womens team claimed the Open Womens Cup after a convincing 24-12 win over the Juggernauts womens’ team; the Stallions walked away with K5000 and a new set of jersey from Tati Sports.

Nova defeated Stallions in the mens U20 to claim the Cup.

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News

Tigak Suspects Surrender

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Two more suspects have surrendered to police following an operation on the group of islands in Tigak New Ireland Province.

This brings the number up to 13 while one is still on the run as police maintain close presence on the island.

This follows a two week joint operation by Kavieng Police and a Mobile Squad Unit from East New Britain following damning reports of an organized criminal gang terrorizing islanders for the past 3 years.

New Ireland Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Felix Nebanat said the gang is responsible for a string of crimes including rape, arson, unlawful wounding, robberies, barbaric killings and cultivation and sale of marijuana.

PPC Nebanat said the gang ruled the Tigak Islands and caused crimes without any remorse leaving islanders in fear. Other islands like Ungan, Kavin, Salampiu and Nonovaul were also affected as different crimes soared in the past 36 months.

According to police in Kavieng, the gang members surrendered following the death of their ring leader who was shot during a raid by police after failing to voluntarily surrender after a 7-day ultimatum was issued.

A boat also used by the gang has been confiscated and currently impounded at the Kavieng Police Station as investigation continues.

PPC Nebanat said the police operation wouldn’t be successful if communities and local leaders were not helpful. He said the high crime rate created by the gang has been a concern by men, women and children in all the islands in Tigak.

He also thanked business houses for the various support towards the police reinforcement from Tomariga who are in New Ireland for Election Operations as well.

While the police operation continues, PPC Nebanat has urged more collaboration by all stakeholders to bring normalcy and reduce the level of crime in all the island communities in Tigak.

He said police alone will not address lawlessness in this part of New Ireland but will require partnership.

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Sport

Eagles Claw Away at Tumbe in Minj

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Franchise Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles are victors beating neighbors Waghi Tumbe yesterday in Round 8 of the 2022 Digicel Cup Season in Jiwaka.

Eagles put on a strong strong performance to defend a late come back by Tumbe with a final score line 22 – 14 at the Jonas Amban Oval in Minj.

It was costly for the home team as Eagles crossed first to open the score board with a try following consecutive penalties by Tumbe.

Handling errors by Waghi Tumbe gave Mt Hagen Eagles enough ball and field possession in their half.

Eagles went on with another attack gaining yard through the middle with a line brake resulting in a four pointer. Successful conversion saw the Eagles extend the lead to 10 with Tumbe yet to score.

But the home side did not back off. Carving through the Eagles defense, a penalty in their half saw them extend ground by finding the sideline. With momentum behind Tumbe, a cross kick saw Tumbe Outside Centre Alex Max scoring a superb try on the left side.

But the Mt Hagen Eagles held on the lead into half time with a 10 – 8 score line.

Tumbe began the second half with a promising start but failed to put points on the board. A counter attack by the Eagles on the right side of the Tumbe defense was hefty as Eagles bounce back to score under the post.

A successful conversion saw Eagles extend the score line to 16 – Tumbe 8. Strong runs by Tumbe was helpful as they push towards the opponent’s try line.

With 10 minutes left, a knock-on by Eagles gave the home side a chance to close the 8 point difference.

Tumbe capitalize with a set replay sending Alex Max for his second try. With the conversion successful, the score saw Eagles lead with 16- 14.

But the visitors proof to strong for the home side as they made huge yards down Tumbe’s territory.

A slick move by Eagles dummy half Danny Aron saw Eagle’s fourth try to seal the game 22 to Tumbe 14.

Eagles Coach Charles Kuri was delighted saying the team kept to the basics and executed their game plan. He said the team was disciplined resulting in tries during critical times of the game.

“We have to improve on a number of factors in preparation for Round 9 against the Gulf Isou. I think the backline was good today, we just need more enforcement with the forwards, said Kuri.

Coach Kuri said they will stick to their basic game plan come Round 9 of the 2022 Digicel Cup Season.

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Sport

New Town Chiefs Try Out Rugby Union

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Rugby Union may not be the most popular sport in Papua New Guinea, but it is the predecessor to rugby league, the most popular sport in PNG.

Over the years rugby league has grown in popularity while rugby union had been at an all-time low, but the recent resurgence of rugby union has bought with it a growing interest.

The New Town Chiefs are youths from the outskirts of Port Moresby from Edai Town, with a few boys within city limits.

The team has a strong hold of rugby league; established in 2021 the team has ventured into rugby union, a sport that the team has come to relish.

New Town Chiefs are taking part in the annual Niu Power Sports Tok sevens tournament, their Coach Mara Katam is pleased with the blend of players.

“The team was formed with a mixture of rugby league and rugby union players, some have 15s experience through the Brothers Rugby Union club, while the rest are rugby league players” Katam added.

The team went down to a strong University Piggies side in their Pool C opener on Saturday, a 26-10 loss to the established club, but the Chiefs managed to make a comeback statement with a 39-7 thumping of fellow debutants Niu Power Hiri West giving the Chiefs some much needed momentum heading to day two on Sunday.

“It was a slow start with the players familiarizing themselves with the rules of the game, but we managed a convincing win in our second match” Coach Katam added.

With the Sports Tok Sevens honing in on the growth of sevens in PNG, the tournament has grassroots teams like the Chiefs finding their place in the code of rugby union sevens.

“A big thank you to the Sports Tok sevens, we are giving these boys the opportunity to play sevens and hopefully they come to love the sport of rugby union as well” Katam concluded.

The Sports Tok Sevens tournament continues on Sunday and ends with the finals to be played on Monday.

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National Elections

Women Taking on the Challenge in 2022

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Women are making the change in Papua New Guinea with a surge of female candidates contesting the 2022 National General Elections, either as Independent candidates or endorsed by political parties.

Papua New Guinea goes to the polls in July to begin its constitutional process towards electing representatives for its 11th Parliament and among the hundreds of male candidates are 142 female candidates vying for the top office posts as well.

In the 2017 National General Election, a total candidacy of 3340, saw only five percent of women listed.

While more than a hundred women contested the 111 seats in 2017, none were elected to Parliament.

2022 has however, seen a surge of political parties endorsing more women candidates than in previous years.

Women candidates with UN Representatives at Parliament attending Mock Parliament Session
This is partly due to more awareness and support by organizations such as the United Nations that has been actively promoting gender equality and women in leadership roles.

Through the ‘Women Make The Change Project’, UNDP in Papua New Guinea is helping to build capacity and vision.

This year, 120 women leaders participated in a series of regional mentoring workshops and trainings delivered in partnership with stakeholders.

The women also were part of a mock Parliament Session in March in preparation for the Election.

On the political race, one party is endorsing all female candidates to contest the 4 seats in the Nation’s capital.

L-R: Sylvia Pascoe – NCD Regional, Tania Bale – Moresby North East, Michelle Hau’ofa – Moresby South and Anna Bais – Moresby North West.
The People’s Party under Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas has endorsed Sylvia Pasco for the NCD Regional seat, Tania Bale – Moresby North East, Anna Kavana Bais – Moresby North West and Michelle Hau’ofa, Moresby South.

United Labor Party has also endorsed a female candidate, Dianne Unagi Koiam, contesting the Moresby North East seat.

Other parties include Peoples National Congress party endorsing Delilah Gore for Sohe Open in Northern Province and Rufina Peter for the Central Regional seat.

Other notable women are Jennifer Baing (People’s Movement for Change Party) , Jean Parkop (Independent), and Dulciana Somare Brash (Independent).

Baing is contesting the Morobe Regional seat, Parkop for Northern Province Regional and Somare-Brash for Angoram Open in East Sepik Province.

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