Association says restriction in Goroka will affect economy

The National Business

THE Farmers and Settlers Association has cautioned National Pandemic Controller David Manning about negative economic implications on Eastern Highlands regarding the Coronavirus (Covid-19) restrictions put in place.
President Wilson Thompson said Goroka hosted national headquarters for the Fresh Produce Development Corporation, Coffee Industry Corporation, Department of Agriculture and Livestock regional office and several aviation companies and bodies including the Rural Airstrips Authority, Adventist Aviation, New Tribes Aviation, Pacific Helicopters and six major coffee export companies.
Thompson said there were institutions in agriculture, education, health and research located in the province as well.
“It can affect the whole country if any measures are not provided without due consultation for social and economic implications,” he said.
“Most of our members in agriculture, agriculture processors and exporters would be affected by restrictions.
“It will minimise the economic impact on Eastern Highlands and PNG.”
The association suggested some key areas for consideration:

  • CURFEW from 5pm to 6am serves no purpose when all gaming houses, schools, PMV, air planes, churches, feasts, weddings and other public gatherings happen during the day;
  • HOTELS and lodges, restaurants and clubs that deals with bonafide travellers and meal providers will lose business;
  • AGRICULTURE factories and merchandisers and wholesalers that operate dryers and do packing in the night will be affected when only few workers are involved (social distancing);
  • GOROKA has an educated population where safe distancing, sanitising and mask wearing should be encouraged in the seven other districts; and,
  • MANY national and regional headquarters are based in Goroka and restrictions would impact their operations.

Thompson said the association anticipated that authorities would consider these concerns by undertaking a the Covid-19 risk assessment throughout the province.
He said the province needed supply of medical equipment and materials to combat the Covid-19.