Govt commits K2mil for project study

 THE Government has recommitted K2 million for the feasibility study of the limestone project in Chimbu after it was stopped because of the misuse of funds, parliament heard yesterday. 

Commerce and Industry Richard Maru said he had reserved K2 million in the 2014 budget for the project because it would provide economic development for the people.

He said some funds allocated for the feasibility study had been misused, resulting in the stopping of the project. 

He did not disclose the amounts. But he said the government would scrutinise every province and support them by allocating funds to create projects that should boost social and economic development. 

“We should start looking at provincial governments and support them. 

“I parked K2 million for a comprehensive feasibility study in the 2014 budget and I expect Cabinet to support that. 

“I must admit there was some money squandered by incompetent people doing the feasibility study on the project. That was a mistake made. 

“I have taken stock of that and I say no more. This is a key economic impact project for this country and the people of Chimbu,” he said. 

Scientific research shows there is 99% lime content, the highest in any lime deposits in the southern hemisphere.

He said it was a viable project that could be achieved. 

State Enterprise Minister Ben Micah said he had received interests from many companies regarding the project.