Relief funds for Milne Bay

MILNE Bay Governor Gordon Wesley has allocated funding to help with immediate relief efforts to outer islands and atolls affected by strong winds and rising sea levels.
This was in response to an urgent plea to the Milne Bay government to help the people affected.
Wesley said K1 million from his Provincial Services Improvement Programme (PSIP) had been allocated for the relief efforts.
But he said PSIP funds were often delayed or withheld, impacting the province’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
“The Government’s commitment to fulfilling outstanding PSIP payments remains uncertain, leaving the province in a challenging position,” he said.
“Last year, only K6 million out of the allocated K10 million was received, creating further strain on Milne Bay’s capacity to address the pressing needs of its people.”
Milne Bay disaster coordinator Steven Tobesa said: “This is the usual cyclone season, but three weeks back, we had reports of sea level affecting low-lying islands.
“I have not had any reports as yet although I have been informed by radio of the LLGs near the land area.
“It is true that the outer islands have been swamped by rising sea levels.”