Concern over proposed deep sea tailings outfall

MINISTER for Fisheries and Marine Resources Dr Lino Tom is unsure about the proposed deep sea tailing pipeline outfall (DSTPO) from the Wafi-Golpu project likely to go out at Wagang, few kilometres east from Lae city.
Wagang, in the Ahi local level government, is at the centre of the proposed construction of new fishery wharf project undertaken by the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and the Wafi-Golpu project DSTPO.
Tom earlier said much of the revenue from fishery sector was generated from tuna. But he was uncertain about the DSTPO.
NFA managing director John Kasu said discussions were still underway.
“The NFA is aware of the proposed DSTPO and discussions are underway to find a common understanding” Kasu said.
Kasu, however, did not explain which Government agencies and private entities were trying to find a common ground for mitigation, should any consequences arise from the impact of the DSTPO if constructed. Last Aug 20, Tom signed a memorandum of understanding with Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu to ensure that the NFA completed its geo-tech feasibility and land investigations to allow the start of the project construction.
Saonu wants to see the construction of the Wagang fisheries wharf start less than three years from now.