Soldiers to join relief efforts

 MEMBERS of the disciplined forces will be increasingly involved in Government’s efforts to deal with natural disasters and its relief operations, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill says.

O’Neill was in Lae yesterday to officiate at the passing-out parade for 28 cadet officers at the Defence Force academy at Igam Barracks. 

He said the country was increasingly prone to natural disasters due to the effect of climate change.

“We can expect more floods, more cyclones and more droughts to affect the country,” O’Neill said. 

“This is where PNGDF will be required to step in and provide emergency response. It will have an essential role in ensuring the safety and security of our citizens.”

O’Neill said members of the disciplined forces had taken an oath to protect the people and the country’s resources.

He said the Government was looking at improving the living conditions of the soldiers who had been neglected by previous governments.

Among the cadet officers was 23-year-old Georgina Tebegetu.

Soldiers from the Engineering Battalion had been involved in road construction works around the country.