Govt will consider concerns: Kua

By GYNNIE KERO
THE Government will consider concerns raised by landowners when it reviews the PNG LNG agreement signed in 2008, Petroleum and Energy Minister Kerenga Kua says.
Kua was responding to concerns raised by the pipeline landowners in Kikori, Gulf, during a visit there on Wednesday.
Kikori is segment 7 of the multi-billion kina project and its 37 clans received K9.2 million-plus yesterday.
Segment 7 director Wauro Oumabe stressed on Wednesday the need for the agreement to be reviewed as it was long overdue.
He said allocations to beneficiaries needed to be raised.
“We will start the review with developers (project) and at the same time incorporate issues for landowners and review them together,” he said.
“We need your (landowners) cooperation.
“The PNG LNG agreement signed in 2008 was due for review in 2018.
“For some reason it wasn’t.”
On the roll-out of benefits for pipeline landowners by Mineral Resources Development Company which began this week, Kua urged the segment 7 clans to use their money wisely.
“Projects (such as PNG LNG) will not be here forever,” he said.
“Spend (your share of the benefit) here in Kikori – spend it on your wife, husband and children.
“Give them a good education, good health and prepare them properly for the life beyond the project.
“Build a house.
“Don’t rush to get a dinghy in Kerema or go all the way to Port Moresby and blow your income and return home empty-handed and wait for next year.
“Put the money where it will matter.”