Audit, revenue key to new Lands Act

 By SHIRLYN BELDEN 

REVIEWING the Lands Act and enhancing information accuracy are among the priorities of the Lands and Physical Planning Department in the next five years, Benny Allan says.

Allan, the Lands Minister and Unggai-Bena MP, said the department identified three key priorities, including land audit and revenue generation.

Allan told the gathering at the launch of the department’s corporate, annual and strategic plans in Port Moresby last Friday that his staff, led by department secretary Romily Kila-Pat and senior divisional directors, that they were prepared to deliver to the nation what had been delayed. 

 “My staff here is determined to do things differently,” Allan said.

“The past has gone. 

“We will create a new chapter and write new writings. 

“We are committed and have demonstrated since I took office, and the result so far is pleasing. 

“This plan is a milestone and the way forward for the department and importantly the country because it will lead to positive development for the people.”

Other programmes initiated include the transfer of powers and functions of physical planning, functions and powers of land board, updating of valuation rolls and land access.  

The department is looking at capacity-building and provincial administration empowerment to work towards achieving the overall goal of the national development plan and Vision 2050.  

Friday saw the 2012 report and 2013 annual and strategic plans launched. 

Planning Minister Charles Abel, who launched the plan at the Gateway Hotel, said the Government was determined to effectively implement policies.

He said his department would work closely with lands to effectively realise it.