Harokaqveh wants more funds

By JASON GIMA WURI
ENVIRONMENT and Conser­va­tion Minister Thompson Haro­kaq­veh plans to see funding for his de­partment increased to meet its goals.
Speaking at the hand-over ceremony, Harokaqveh said the environment protection wing was un­der-staffed and funding was li­mited.
“Though we have capacity and resource issues in this wing, there are some urgent short-term issues we need to deal with while working towards strengthening our capa­city,” Harokaqveh said.
“Some of these include deep-sea tailings disposal, guidelines for oil palm and agro-forestry, waste management, renewable energy and the devolution and delegation of environment regulation functions to provinces.”
He said his message to the sec­retary and staff of the department was clear.
“I understand that your funding is inadequate for your responsibilities and that staffing levels are poor.
“However, that does not excuse you as public servants from turning up for work every day and deliver on your responsibilities.
“I can assure you that I will be working tirelessly to obtain further funding in this year’s budget and to ensure targets are achieved in my short time.”
He urged the staff to be committed and demonstrate that they could deliver for the new government.
Harokaqveh thanked his predecessor Benny Allan for his support.