Work starts on h’way

NEW Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan is delighted that the sealing of the Salimun to Punam portion of the Boluminski Highway has begun.
Sir Julius travelled to Namatanai for the burial of his friend and New Ireland’s first premier Robert Seeto last week.
“It is only fitting that the vehicles carrying the casket of the late Seeto and his family be the first to drive on the newly-sealed portion of the road.”
Sir Julius said it was a relief for the people of Namatanai to finally see some development since they had missed out on infrastructure projects even though the Lihir and Simberi mines had generated enormous revenues.
“This section of the sealing of the highway to Punam is expected to be completed, weather permitting, before the end of April and will cost more than K25 million.”
We will also begin sealing of Namatanai town roads under the Tax Credit Scheme.”
He acknowledged the assistance of the Autonomy Committee, Kavieng MP Ben Micah Minister for Public Enterprise and all the leaders from Kavieng that provided their support and solace to the Seeto family.
When travelling to Namatanai on Thursday Sir Julius stopped at Konos to meet with landowners from Tabar to discuss ongoing disputes regarding the manner in which royalties to Tatau landowners are being used.
Following the briefing, Sir Julius immediately instructed the Provincial Administrator to ensure that the concerns of the landowners are addressed and the matter be fully investigated.
He directed the first stop of the combined Patrol scheduled for next week be Tabar.