Seymour: Developers must respect people

 By PISAI GUMAR

RESOURCE developers must respect the dignity and value of small people and their resources, says Huon-Gulf MP Ross Seymour.

Seymour also thanked the Morobe Mining Joint Venture’s for building a new bridge at the Demakwa base camp allowing people to access the Wafi-Golpu mine site.

He said companies investing to develop resources have an obligation to assist landowners in all facets of lives, whether it be skills, knowledge, seed capital, employment or spin-off activities.

“It will enable small people not to become slaves on their own land.

“It will make them feel responsible to participate productively with companies and government for the benefit of the country,” Seymour said.

Seymour, before becoming an MP, was involved in heavy trucking business engaged to transport exploration materials to Wafi.

He urged MMJV to never neglect landowners but look after them.

“Attend to their queries as humans. 

“They are useful, therefore provide them opportunities to involve themselves to minimise landowner issues,” he said.

Acting provincial administrator Geoving Belong said Wafi-Golpu had adequate resources.

Mumeng LLG president Mathias Philip advised MMJV to see whether local landowner groups had the capacity and potential to participate instead of engaging outsiders.

“And I also warn local landowners not to use their clan land issues as an excuse to block access road,” he said.

“It is better to resolve internal land issues amicably and work with the MMJV to address critical issues.”