Sir Puka opts for best economic model

PERCEIVED as the third largest rainforest in the world, Papua New Guinea should come up with the best economic model to protect the environment, Minister for Public Service Sir Puka Temu says.
Speaking in relation to the interim report into the SABL commission of inquiry in parliament yesterday, Sir Puka said the complete report should be tabled in the next parliament session so it could be addressed by the house.
“I acknowledge this legislation that brought much-needed development but the house must deal with the current issues and take a holistic approach,” he said.
To retain a pristine environment, Sir Puka challenged the government to choose a pathway for long-term development and how best to unlock the potential the land had.
“Papua New Guinea needs to come up with the best economic model to protect the environment and at the same time improve the lives of the people to meet the medium-term development goals,” he said.
“As host of the third largest rainforest in the world, there is a need to come up with a framework that is truly sustainable within an environmental protection policy,”   Sir Puka said.
He said with much debate on the current carbon trade market, the government should consult ways to tap into the industry.
Highlighting a quote from former Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta that “Land is not inherited but borrowed from the future” Sir Puka said there should be control measures in place – setting pre-conditions on land used by investors such as limiting the acreage and demanding that all environmental standards be met on extra land required.
“We must take a strategic position so that extractive resources are used in sustainable development.
“I am in full support of investors who follow the correct procedures under the law and we need to help the landowners by operating under a framework that is truly sustainable under an environment protection policy,” Sir Puka said.
He commended the government for being steadfast in waiting for the final report into the SABL inquiry.