Group opposes State on industry

 MOROBE people will make sure that the Government does not reduce the 51 per cent local ownership of the stevedoring industry.

Deputy Opposition leader Sam Basil said the 51-49 per cent policy must remain.

Basil met last week with members of the PNG Maritime Union, Riback Holdings Ltd, Ahi Investment Ltd, Labu Holdings Ltd and clan leaders from six Ahi villages in Morobe, who are opposing Government move to engage foreigners in stevedoring companies.

The union members, company workers and six clan leaders urged Basil to take their case to Parliament.

 “The Government cannot impose 26 per cent local ownership and 74 per cent foreign ownership,” Basil said. 

“This is our country and we have the ability and capacity to manage our ports.

“The Ahis and Labus cannot go to Philippines or Australia to drive a forklift to lift a container at a waterfront or manage terminal facilities. It’s illogical.

“Why is the Government marginalising its own people? 

“It portrays its inability to consider local ownership and participation interests.”