Concerns to be addressed, locals told

 By TONY PALME KIP

THE Jiwaka provincial administration has told landowners blocking access to the Fatima government station that their concerns would be addressed.

Provincial administrator Michael Wandil, his deputy Joe Karap and officers from the administration pledged to assist the Andpang landowners to pursue their land compensation claim with the Government.

At a meeting on Wednesday at the provincial headquarters in Kurumul attended by the landowners and head of institutions at the station, Wandil said the provincial government had agreed to assist the landowners take their queries to the Government to speed up the payment process.

“We will reach an understanding with the police and community leaders to help the landowners.

“We are concerned about the children’s education and other services that the mission provides.”

Fatima Secondary school principal John Aipeta said students had missed the first week of classes.

“We have nine other institutions aid posts, the parish establishments, Callan services and coffee plantations that are affected,” Aipeta said.

Andpang landgroup chairman Dorum Kasbal and spokesman Rex Kati said they wanted the station to operate without taking any legal action against it despite the 57-year lease agreement signed, which had expired in 2005.

“We do not want to cause any disturbances, therefore kindly request if this only and genuine claim of ours is honored by the State,” Kati said.