Manning: Rent not required

Sports
‘These are State assets which are crucial for Covid-19 ops’

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA
NATIONAL Pandemic Response Controller David Manning says venues under the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) are State assets which are crucial to the country’s Covid-19 operations.
“The Government has approved their use as critical infrastructure to be used to isolate and treat those who have been afflicted by the Covid-19,” he told The National.
Port Moresby’s Rita Flynn and Taurama Aquatic Centre, and Lae’s Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium are PNGSF facilities that have been commandeered for Covid-19 operations.
In response to questions raised in relation to free use of the venues especially in NCD, Manning said: “This is a national response, we appreciate that PNGSF has staff on the payroll at different levels.
“We have tried to ensure whatever payments are due will cover their salaries.
“However, we can’t afford to rent the place, nor should we have to.
“It is a State asset and as such, the Government has approved it as critical infrastructure to be used to isolate and treat those who have been afflicted by the Covid-19.
“I reiterate my commitment to work with PNGSF to assist in resolving these issues.”
Under the National Pandemic Act 2020, a directive issued by Manning in February stated that “for the period of 12 months, the St John Ambulance shall use the land and premises known as the Taurama Aquatic Centre for the purposes of medical facilities and hospital equipment to deal with and treat persons”.
“PNGSF shall not charge any rent or like consideration for the use of the premises during the 12 months,” the directive read.