Committee told to plan development project concepts

Members of the New Ireland provincial implementation Committee have been urged to come up with development project concepts instead of waiting for the Government to fund its development plans.
Governor Sir Julius Chan told them they should stop waiting for the Government to secure funds for the projects.
“You have to think new. You can get the investors to develop the project, allow them to operate the project for a certain period of time,” Sir Julius said.
“During that time, they would use local labour and transfer skills to our people. Come up with a win-win contract arrangement.”
Provincial Works manager Solomon Pela and consulting engineer Clint Raven briefed the committee on the progress of new projects including negotiations for the first major solar power project, the Kavieng international airport, the fourth lane of the Kavavu Avenue and Kavieng town roads.
Work on the road from Muliama to Metlik worth K3 million by the Tasukolak Landowner Company and Sentawan Limited would begin this month.
“They have never had such big money invested in projects in their area and this commitment will make them feel part of New Ireland,” Sir Julius said.
Sir Julius called on engineers to fast-track work on projects in Namatanai and Kavieng districts.
He also said it was better for the committee to come with development projects that would benefit the province.