MPs will get full DSIP funds: PM

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has assured parliamentarians, including members of the Opposition, they will receive their full District Services Improvement Programme funds for 2013.
He said he had visited many electorates and been briefed on development projects undertaken in other electorates, including those held by MPs in the Opposition.
He has directed any outstanding funds must be released to satisfy contractual obligations and other payments for delivery of service.
“I’m satisfied that development projects are being initiated in nearly all districts in the country as a result of this intervention (DSIP, PSIP and LLGIP) that our government has introduced,” he said.
“While it is my desire to see all districts, LLGs and provinces receive their funds in a timely manner, there are practical constraints like cash flow management and acquitting previously spent funds, that will cause a delay in the disbursement to some electorates and districts.
 “A few individuals have sought to turn this into political point-scoring issues in the media. That is unfortunate, but understandable.
“The electorates held by MPs in the Opposition are part of our great nation. People from those electorates will not be treated differently to others.
“I am advised that K3 million is owed to each district that have not yet received their full 2013 allocation. Cash flow permitting, the Finance Department will this week release these to the districts concerned.”
But Bulolo MP and Deputy Opposition leader Sam Basil, said it was “too little, too late”.
“Whether we receive it, the damage has been done,” Basil said.