New Ireland calls for fair share of benefits from Lihir mine

Business

THE New Ireland government has called for a fairer distribution of benefits from the Lihir gold mine.
Governor Sir Julius Chan, in a meeting with new Newcrest Mining’s new general-manager Peter Sharpe yesterday, asked why the province was not getting its fair share of profits since the rise in gold prices.
“We are not asking for much, just be fair by distributing the super profit with all stakeholders, including the State and landowners and the province which is providing the wealth,” he said.
According to the provincial government, one of the ongoing demands had also been to ensure the construction of a ring road around Lihir Island. Sharpe confirmed that the scope of work was with the National Planning Department for approval for work to start with tax credit funds.
However, the New Ireland Government said consultation should have been sought with its team before tax credit funds were used to fund any projects.
“The provincial executive council and the legislative assembly has appointed community rep Clement Mosson as chairman of works and infrastructure and, as a Lihirian, he will monitor works on the island,” Sir Julius said.
Newcrest has agreed to have more open dialogue with the provincial government.