Protecting environment, locals in project areas vital: Barker

SAFEGUARDING natural resources and opportunities for people in resource project areas is important, says an economist.
PNG Institute of National Affairs director Paul Barker said, in his 2021 economic outlook that it needed open discussion on priorities, including through mechanisms, such as the current national land use planning exercise.
“It includes the need for an open forum to help determine the right balance over what resources, business activities and jobs should be restricted exclusively for Papua New Guineans in future, while also encouraging foreign investment and competition to bring in needed capital needed for local job creation, specific skills and quality goods and services,” he said.
Barker said it entailed realistic balance, including emphasis on education, training and standards to help fill the gaps.
“Clearly industries requiring major capital and locally unavailable technology/skills require international investment and human resources,” he said.
“But for other industries in resource management, neither the State nor private investors has the capital or experience for the level of investment needed to develop opportunities and generate jobs for young Papua New Guineans.
“So foreign investment restrictions should not be unduly onerous, while foreign employment restrictions should be more rigorously and transparently applied.
“Greater informational and data cooperation is also required between respective authorities to ensure compliance and application of tax and other obligations.”