Service providers in Hela not paid

By GYNNIE KERO
HELA Governor Francis Potape says he is aware of the non-payment of service-providers in the State-sanctioned call-out operation which started last month.
Potape said he was also aware that security personnel engaged in the operation were yet to receive their allowances.
Potape urged political leaders to set aside their differences and assist the service providers and security personnel.
“I am aware of service providers not being paid,” he said.
“I’ve heard that security forces were not paid their allowances.
“I’ve also heard that they are borrowing or using their own money to buy fuel. I am a bit embarrassed because that is not how its supposed to be.
“I’m calling on people to work with the government in the implementation of the budget.
“We have people on the ground to help us. It is also the responsibility of the provincial government to help the forces and pay some debts.
“In Hela, it is not easy for a service-provider to provide services on credit. They also need money to continue operation.”
Task Force military commander Lieutenant-Colonel John Manuai said the troops received their allowances last Monday after a month’s delay.
In the past four weeks, Manuai said they had to fend for themselves using their own money.