Column 1 – The National

Remember Blacklock
Prime Minister James Marape took a dig at the PNG Power management over the continuing power supply disruptions last Friday: “PPL, you have to tell me if there is a hide and seek (game) going on. It seems to be happening after Carolyn Blacklock (former acting MD) went out. So is someone indicating that she is a better manager?”
Power delay
The NiuPower plant, we have been told, had been ready to go in April. It took eight months more to get it supplying electricity to the Port Moresby grid last Friday. “It’s been a long time trying to get this power plant off the ground,” one official quipped.
Wasted day
A colleague spent almost half the day waiting for the camera batteries to charge. He was starting to believe that the batteries were not working or the camera was faulty when it was pointed out to him to try turning the switch on. Hallelujah, it worked.
Top cop
So much public debate on who is going to be the Police Commissioner on social media. A gazette will be coming out today to put the matter to rest. Stay tuned.
Empty stallsThis was during the opening of the multi-million kina Gordon market recently. Today there are still many empty stalls inside. One wonders if it is making enough money to at least break even. Along Cobon Street about 50 metres away, vendors continue to conduct their informal businesses. Is it because the market fees are too high for them?
Clean market
The Gordon market and its facilities are neat and tidy and vendors, with both gates guarded by security guards – some of whom seem more busy watching the clock than monitoring the people entering and exiting.
Mum calls time
Mum yelled that she was going to call police on the number provided (1800100) to report the people partying loudly downstairs. It worked. The din waned to a whimper in a short time. A few even left for home. It was beginning to dawn anyway.
Thought for the day
Wearing cheap clothes, travelling by PMV bus instead of taxi, or not owning a car does not make you broke. Remember, you have got a family to feed, not friends, relatives or a community to impress.