Benefit-split deal needed: PM

By REBECCA KUKU
PRIME Minister James Marape has urged landowners and the Enga government to come to an agreement on their benefit-split on the Porgera gold project.
He visited Porgera on Monday.
In an interview last week, Marape said Barrick (Niugini) Ltd (BNL) and Kumul Minerals Holdings Ltd were ready to progress in reopening the mine but were waiting for shareholder agreement held back by landowners represented under the trust company, Mineral Resources Enga (MRE).
He said they wanted certain amendments to be made to their 15 per cent share in the project.
“Landowners, please come to an agreement and do not prolong the delay. Let’s restart the project,” Marape told the people on Monday.
“Barrick and the Government have agreed.
“Now it’s between the Government, provincial government and the landowners to come to an agreement.
“Please, let’s sit down, talk and come to an agreement.
“We have already got 15 per cent.”
He said he and Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas had told them that 10 per cent was for Porgera Valley and 5 per cent for the rest of the province. Previously it was 50/50.
“Under the 15 per cent, you will be getting more. 15 per cent is just the equity. Previously, you used to get 2 per cent for royalty. Now we have increased it to 3 per cent.
“I asked for 5 per cent, but we couldn’t come to an agreement on that and settled for 3 per cent.
“I appeal to the landowners and MRE to work together with the Mineral Resources Authority to ensure we reopen the mine.”