K4.5 million fisheries project planned for Rabaul district

 By ABIGAIL APINA

A CONSULTANCY agreement was signed yesterday for a feasibility study into a fisheries project in the Rabaul district.

It was signed in Kokopo between the East New Britain provincial government for the Rabaul district administration and Bostle Project Planners to carry out a month-long study into a Kurakakaul fisheries project.

For the provincial government, the project is a giant step to develop a dedicated coastal fishing port with appropriate facilities that would cater for small vessels.

It is understood that the port will include an integrated facility that will include a jetty, an ice-making facility, a fish market building, a small fish processing facility, residences and related social amenities such as public toilets, a kiosk and zoom boatcher.

The study is expected to cost K250,000 which, according to National Fisheries technical officer Bolton Towok, was a cheaper option.

Towok said feasibility studies of a simnilar nature in PNG usually cost K500,000 kina.

The concept was mooted five years ago but due to budgetary constraints and other matters such as land issues, it was delayed.

Provincial administrator Wilson Matava said an effective cooperative fishing business would only be realised if there were proper facilities.

The Rabaul joint district planning and budget priority committee has committed to funding the project.

The study will start on June 24 and the final report is expected to be submitted to the Rabaul district on July 26.

Matava said that the project was “very important considering the economic status of the province”.

He said he was pleased that a consultant was chosen for the study.

National Fisheries has committed K3 million to the project which is expected to cost K4.5 million.