Duban: Oil, gas Act will be reviewed

 By SHIRLEY MAULUDU

Petroleum and Energy Minister Nixon Duban says he has ordered for a review to be carried out into the current PNG Oil and Gas Act so it accommodates the new industry in the country – the petrochemical sector.    

The Konebada Petroleum Park has been proposed as an industrial hub for development of the petroleum industry.

Speaking during a media conference Duban said: “I have directed that the Act be reviewed so that we have clear indication of what the park must become as part of government programme.” He added that the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority (KPPA) – which will administer the petrochemical park – currently, does not have a board in place. 

However, he said: “I have made it very clear that we have to have a board in place as soon as possible

Duban said the concept which was initially initiated for the park has had mixed reactions and was not driven according with the identity that KPPA now carried.

“It (KPPA) was established by an Act of Parliament so it does no come under the Department of Petroleum and Energy. It’s administered by the minister responsible under the ministerial determination,” he explained 

“We have already taken steps to set up a board. Names have been submitted. Nominees will be from certain provinces that are now generating revenue from the gas like Hela, Southern Highlands, Central and Gulf and also one from local landowners here. 

“Once the clearance is made, then the board will be set up and the board will take control of the appointment of the CEO (chief executive officer),” Duban said.