Outcome of referendum to go before parliament

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill says the final outcome of the Bougainville referendum will need to be put to Parliament for its decision.
O’Neill told the leaders’ summit yesterday that with the date set for Oct 17, Government was committed in ensuring that it took place.
“I can assure you that our Government is fully committed in making sure that this referendum takes place,” he said.
“There is a lot that needs to be done between now and then, but it is important that we adhere to the spirit of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
“We must ensure that there is genuine and proper weapons disposal, that there is good governance and transparency in the election process.”
O’Neill said at special meeting of the joint supervisory board last week, the Autonomous Bougainville Government and PNG Government found common ground on many areas.
“The question to be put to the people of Bougainville has been advanced, and in the coming weeks there will be more and more awareness,” he said. “I want to thank everyone who has participated in this process, particularly President Momis and the ABG, who have been very genuine in the way we want to conduct this referendum.”
Meanwhile, O’Neill told leaders at the summit to work harder to make people’s lives better by delivering services.
“At this summit, we will hear from many of the remote districts of the work that they do and the hardships they face,” he said.
“I want us to work harder over the next few years. No-one else is going to do it for us. The work before us is challenging. When we work together day and night, we will not let our people down.”