Change and do things better: MP

AMBUNTI-Dreikikier MP Johnson Wapunai says the labour mobility and seasonal workers’ programme introduced by the Government through the Department of Treasury is a window dressing and modern-day slavery.
Wapunai, who is also Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Finance and Lands and Physical Planning, said: “Thirty years ago, Papua New Guineans were told they cannot grow rice yet, today, our farmers are growing rice right across the country but in small scale.”
Wapunai said people needed the right expertise and technology so the Government must get its priorities right or else continue to invest heavily on scam programmes like labour mobility and seasonal workers’ programme.
“The Government seems to be rejoicing and beating its chest proclaiming that programmes like this one will change the lives of our people but the reality remains – it will not bring impact on our country’s economy on the long run,” he said.
He said agriculture production and exports would only increase when we started to do things differently rather than our current systems where money and other resources were injected into agriculture, livestock and MSME and rural business without much impact.
Wapunai said PNG needed to change its focus and ensure there was transport access and better roads, jetties and airstrips to take out agriculture produce
“There must be law and order and enforcement by ensuring law breakers are caught, prosecuted and punished,” he said.
“Government must ensure proper public utilities like water, power, telephone and roads are available so that businesses can continue to work instead of looking for alternative.”