PNGRFL gets approval

ALL major and minor affiliated and associated leagues throughout the country can now kick off their competitions following approval by the National Pandemic Control Centre. Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League chief executive Stanley Hondina said the approval was granted in a letter, dated June 8, from Deputy Controller Dr Daoni Esorom.
“We advised all our affiliated and associated leagues not to start their competitions until approval was granted by the controller’s Office,” he said in a statement yesterday. “A submission was made to his office on May 27, seeking approval for the commencement of all our other rugby league competitions a week after the Digicel Cup games which started last weekend.” Hondina said the response received yesterday stated in part: “Approval has been granted as per your request. “This is attributed to the Covid-19 protocols that are stated in the standard operating protocols (Banis Protocols) that have been submitted by your organisation and the assurance that all Niupela Pasin measures will be adhered to during the competitions.” He said the Niupela Pasin team from the National Control Centre (NCC) or the Provincial Health Authorities (PHA) would be monitoring these activities to ensure compliance. “Failure to comply with the Niupela Pasin measures can result in termination of the event and its related activities,” Hondina said. He said compliance at these levels would be monitored by the provincial rugby league boards that are being established. “The composition of the board will have representatives from the provincial health authority, police, provincial government, business council, franchises and so on as per the terms of reference,” he said.  “These boards are being set up to implement and govern all issues, including the Banis Protocols at the provincial level.” Hondina warned all affiliated and associated leagues, including schools, to strictly comply with the Banis Protocols. He urged leagues to follow rules.