Parkop in Bid’s hot seat

By HENRY MORABANG
NCD Governor Powes Parkop was handed the chairmanship of the PNGNRL Bid Board by Sports and 2015 Pacific Games Minister Justin Tkatchenko.
The Moresby South MP was initially appointed as new chairman but stood down due to his heavy ministerial responsibilities. Tkatchenko handed over the chairmanship to Parkop, who was an original board member to move the Bid forward for the benefit of rugby league in the country.
The appointment of the chairman was part of the several changes to the Bid board.
Tkatchenko and the board thanked former sports minister Philemon Embel for his contribution to the Bid.
Tkatchenko wasted no time in living up to his reputation as the “action man” when he called for a meeting for the board.
The minister held discussions with the Bid management and board to seek an understanding of the Bid’s direction and programmes, which were largely funded by the PNG government.

The Minister was impressed with the National Rugby League Development Programs and the pathways created and planned to improve rugby league in PNG to ensure it remains as the nation’s national sport. He has directed the BID management to action these plans immediately.
“The BID’s National Schoolboy Development Programs are to be commended.  Whilst the BIDs end goal is to secure a licence in the NRL in the future, they recognise the foundations and infrastructure need to be strong to support such an entity.  Under the current CEO and Board they have managed the BIDs finances exceptionally. Their entire pathway is clearly mapped out and their investment into the youth of PNG is outstanding and making a significant impact.”
 “There is a strong understanding of the fundamental key elements that need to be done to not only fix Rugby League in PNG but progress its development so that the game regains credibility in the eyes of the NRL (National Rugby League)/ARLC (Australian Rugby League Commission) and the International Rugby League Federation. I and the PNG Government support the BIDs plans and the next vital steps are to fix the game nationally and to secure a Queensland Cup Licence for the Nation and further develop our home grown talent.”
The BID will now present its 2012-2015 strategic pathways and financial audit report to the National Executive Council in the next few weeks.