Compensation mentality must go

NATURAL and man-made disasters have been happening frequently in many parts of our country, impacting many lives.
A growing trend that has evolved from such disasters is the demand by the affected few for go­vernment compensation.
This creeping normalcy scenario is quite prevalent in the highlands and Mo­mase regions.
Every flood, landslide, bushfire, drought, tribal fight, you name it; people blame the government and expect it to make good their demands.
These are signs of a sick and lazy society who are not prepared to help themselves.
This disturbing attitude must stop before we be­come a land of beggars.
The government is equally to blame for creating this trend by giving in to their approaches and emotional pleas.
If I were the head of the country, I would take a very strong stance against such attitude and outlaw such compensation de­mands.
Sure, the government has a moral obligation to safeguard the lives of its citizens when natural disasters of a catastrophic nature occur.
In the 1994 Rabaul volcanic eruption, the people of Rabaul and ENB took immediate proactive ac­tion and did everything they could to evacuate and move to safer areas.
This resulted in no loss of life despite the magnitude of the volcanic eruption and earthquake.
This is a good benchmark for the people of this country to follow instead of totally relying on government hand-outs and being spoonfed all the time.
What people must realise is that these natural disasters are not caused by the government and therefore it is unreasonable and unfair for them to come running for help every time something happens.
Try helping yourself first before begging from others.
If you were sitting inside a burning house, would you hang around until the government comes to hold your hand and lead you away from the fire?
I do not think so, unless you want to commit suicide.

JL
Lae