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By JASON SOM KAUT
MOST of the 2,000 settlers in the vicinity of the Lae tidal basin
project now prefer to go back home rather than be resettled around the
harbour city.
Though the repatriation may pose a hiccup in implementation of projects,
it was expected to be resolved with the signing of the project deal and
loan agreement likely in December.
This was revealed last Tuesday by Lae tidal basin project coordinator
Sakeus Gem following a meeting with representatives from Maus Markham,
Wara Tais and Sodas settlements.
The meeting was intended to bring together the settlement leaders to
agree to final details of the resettlement exercise at the old Malahang
plantation.
Details of the disagreement were not specified but the difference in
views saw settlers now opting for repatriation.
It is understood the Asian Development Bank prefers resettlement to
repatriation believing resettlement as a long lasting solution that will
guarantee the projects sustainability and avoid future conflicts.
Last week, PNG Ports officials and a representative from IPBC – the
project executing agency – visited Lae to see progressive work.
Settlers were initially to be put up at the 4-5 Mile block areas but due
to high cost factor in reclaiming the large swamp land, the ADB instead
opted for Malahang.
A survey was carried out earlier in the year that identified 482
legitimate households with more than 2,000 members.
Mr Gem revealed that a community leader at the settlement would follow
him to Milne Bay where he would visit the staff housing at Milne Bay oil
palm estate to get some ideas on different housing options and
resettlement arrangements.
It is understood the ADB has now given the Lae tidal basin project an
appraisal status and was awaiting the agreement with landowners for the
resettlement exercise before signing of the loan deal.
 
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