Plastic ban ‘silence’ annoys council

THE PNG Manufacturers Council has expressed frustration over what it claims as “continuous silence” by the responsible government entity over the ban on single use plastic of bags.
Chief executive Chey Scovell yesterday said they were now half way between the initial ban (Nov 1) and the revised date (Jan 31), but there was still no consultation with Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (Cepa).
“Among the many reshuffles of 2019 we did note that in the most recent in early November we saw Wera Mori shifted from Commerce to Environment,” Scovell said.
“We understood and expected for there to be a short period for Cepa to be busy briefing its incoming minister.
“But surely six weeks has been sufficient,” Scovell said.
He said manufacturers, businesses and consumers were concerned about how the ban would be implemented.
“It’s clear there is little to no leadership on this issue, and it’s somewhat understandable,” Scovell said.
“This entire ban has been half baked, and it’s unfortunate that a well-regarded and professional minister has this in his lap, he will effectively be overseeing the introduction of a ban, that is without any basis in law.
“It will be a headache and an embarrassment for the Government,” he said.
Scovell said the industry had been patient for years.
“We have always sought to work cooperatively with government, but it would seem this government has forgotten how to work with its partners and stakeholders.
Former minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Geoffrey Kama announced in August that the ban should be in effect by November but the date was revised.