Chamber welcomes govt’s intent on projects

THE Government’s intent to resolve key projects including Wafi-Golpu is welcoming news for the Lae business community, Lae Chamber of Commerce Incorporation (LCCI) president John Byrne says.
Byrne said the Lae business community appreciated that the Wafi-Golpu project would reinvigorate not only the city’s economy in Lae, but that of the province and the country as well following the impact of the Covid-19 on the economy.
Byrne said the effect of the global pandemic was evident among the business community where some had adjusted while other segments remain impacted.
He said the closure of the Porgera mine was of concern for many businesses in Lae.
“Transport, manufacturing and retail is being challenged by this impasse,” he said referring to the state and developer Barrick Niugini Ltd.
Byrne said the chamber was heartened by words from Deputy Prime Minister Sam Basil recently on the Government’s intent to resolve Porgera, Wafi-Golpu and other key projects before Christmas.