Ownership clarified

By HELEN TARAWA
GOVERNOR Robert Agarobe says his government has taken over Digicel Cup franchise Central Dabaris, which now belongs to the people of the province.
He said that in response to questions about the legality of the transfer of ownership.
Agarobe told The National that all the government’s business arms were owned by the people of Central.
He said this included Central Provincial Holdings Limited as well as subsidiary businesses in agriculture, tourism, commerce and industry, and insurance.
“We have Aniani (food) and Insucare which looks after our primary healthcare and that of our farmers,” Agarobe said.
“For the Dabaris, we are bringing that in as one of our business arms, so it belongs to the people.
“All our business arms are 100 per cent owned by the people of Central.
“These are not businesses owned by individuals, they are owned by the people.
“If they have an issue, they have to talk to me.
“But as far as we know, the provincial government has now taken over the franchise.
“There is more to it than just playing rugby league.”
Agarobe said they would soon sign a memorandum of understanding with Iarowari High School to have the Dabaris based at Sogeri.
“It is an ideal place for high-altitude training,” he said.
“It’s away from all the bright lights of Port Moresby, so players can concentrate on their training.
“We will then build facilities for their training and we will upgrade the Iarowari rugby league field to make it the home of the Dabaris.
“It’s about building an identity for our province.
“So once they are based there, we also want to push for the code to be introduced to the schools, especially secondary schools and it will trickle down to the primary schools.
“Those who play well will be transferred to Iarowari which will become a rugby league academy for the province.
“We will do the same with Kwikila which will be turned into a soccer academy.”
Agarobe said it was all about delivering services to the people of Central and creating opportunities.