Landowners: High cost of survey services

 THE cost of engaging surveyors for Incorporated Land Groups is high and should be reviewed to allow for Papua New Guineans to register their land, a minister says.

Minister for Lands and Physical Planning Benny Allan, speaking at the opening of the 48th Survey Congress, said landowners often raised concern about survey fees.

He said landowners had informed him that surveyors were charging a lot of money when helping with Incorporated Land Groups.

“If what the landowners are saying is true, then I would like to see the fees reviewed to allow our people to register their land. 

“Let’s not make it too expensive, I have not sighted the review but if it’s true then I want see fees reviewed.” 

Director for National Research Institution Dr Thomas Webster challenged the surveyors to maintain ethical principles and be reasonable and sensible with the landowners they worked with.

“Let’s not kill the golden goose that lays the egg, let’s not charge the high fees and then stop the landowners from getting involved initially.

“Let’s give them reasonable rates, as more and more land is brought into development we can create more jobs and economic opportunities for ourselves.”