Marape discusses Pasca A delay

Business

SOME regulatory issues need to be sorted before discussions can recommence between Twinza Oil Ltd and the State, Prime Minister James Marape says.
Marape made the statement on Wednesday when commenting on the status of the Pasca A project in Gulf.
“Twinza has got regulatory issues with the Department of Petroleum, as custodian of regulatory matters,” he said. “The Pasca project is a small low hanging project within reach.
“The Petroleum Department has done its bit.
“The project partner has given its view and we are taking the review holistically to see whether it can be reviewed as far as where it is today.
“As the Government, we want to tick off Porgera, Papua LNG, P’nyang LNG, Pasca A and of course Wafi-Golpu.” Twinza’s country manager Roppe Uyassi recently told The National that the company was ready to progress the project and was awaiting re-engagement with the State through the state negotiation team (SNT).
Meanwhile, Marape urged investors to follow laws in place within the respective industries.
“I just want to encourage all the foreign investors in our country, we don’t run a banana republic, we have due processes and outcomes and we have laws,” he said.
“Comply with all requirements of law in our country.
“If you get an exploration licence, deliver to the intent of that licence.
“If you have a retention licence, deliver to the conditions of the retention licence.
“If you are applying for a development licence, comply to the rules of engagement.
“Those are prescribed by law. James Marape will not circumvent or any minister will not circumvent.
“Some of those licence requirements are possibly not met by investors, the holder of those regulations and titles have to check against the requirements of those legislations.”