Is Papua New Guinea's Capital the Most Dangerous City? livability of Port Moresby depends on the attitudes and actions of its residents

Port Moresby (POM), the capital city of Papua New Guinea, has been labelled as one of the most dangerous cities in the world due to the high rates of crime and violence. However, it is important to note that this classification is largely based on petty criminal offences such as holdups, pickpocketing, and knife and gun crime, including serious crimes such as rape and murder.

To make Port Moresby a livable city, there needs to be a change in attitude among its residents. It is essential to have a basic command of order in society, with every individual upholding common sense and respecting one another, the law, and themselves. These values are currently lacking, resulting in a disorganized society with high crime rates.

The development of human capital and law and order should be a priority for the city. Law enforcement agencies, such as the police and courts, need to take responsibility for controlling opportunistic crimes and ensuring that citizens are protected. The police should prioritize the protection of citizens over the protection of white-collar criminals and fraudsters.

POM has the potential to become one of the best cities in the world, but this will require political will and civil obedience. It is crucial that all residents work together to rebuild the city and make it a safe and livable place for everyone. 

In addition, there should be efforts to promote economic development in the city, as this can create jobs and improve the standard of living for residents. With economic growth, the city can attract investment, create more opportunities for its citizens, and improve its infrastructure.

Another crucial aspect that needs to be addressed is education. The city needs to invest in its education system to improve literacy rates and ensure that citizens have access to quality education. Education can also promote civic engagement and a sense of responsibility among residents, which can lead to a safer and more livable city.

In conclusion, the livability of Port Moresby depends on the attitudes and actions of its residents. It is essential to prioritize the development of human capital and law and order, promote economic growth, and invest in education to create a safer and more livable city for all.

Fighting The White Collar Criminals and Fraudsters in Papua New Guinea, No Room For Complacency

Transparency International’s most recent survey of global corruption (2014) revealed that PNG was 145th of 175 nations in the World, with the 175th being the most corrupt. In the Asia Pacific region, PNG was placed 21^st with North Korea ranked 25^th - placing PNG just 4 places away from a nation described as most authoritarian (dictatorial) regime in the 21^st century.

This number captured informed views of analysts, business people and experts who have worked and lived in PNG. No one can dispute intelligence and experience of these experts unless significant improvements are evident within public service and law and justice sector.

What is important here is the reality that decision makers (politicians) and public service machinery (public servants) are putting PNG amongst the worst of corrupt nations on Earth. 

In order to improve the country’s ranking, first political leaders have to take the lead. That means that the Cabinet has to either set up anticorruption bodies, empower existing fraud investigation squad or both. Task Force Sweep – the anticorruption body set up by Peter O’Neill in August 2011 - was established in good faith. 

Any political initiatives for fighting corruption have to be formally sanctioned through the Constitution and given legal powers to both investigate and prosecute alleged white collar criminals. It must not be subjective to Cabinet ministers who are likely to withdraw support when they are investigated.

Independence of such graft fighting body is important. This will stop what happened to Task Force Sweep where the prime minister disbanded it when he was the subject of their investigation. Recent report revealed that this anticorruption body is stuffed off funds and on the verge of closing all its investigations. This is a direct blow as far as fighting corruption is concerned. 

The government has to remain true to the effort to reduce white collar crimes and fraudulent activities in the public sector by releasing K7 million funding for this year (2014). On the same token, the government of Peter O'Neill has to increase the funding for this effective but underfunded anticorruption watchdog. 

Second, public service departmental heads and secretaries will have to be appointed on merit instead of appointed by political affiliation. Questions have to be asked now to ascertain appointees to every government ministerial position. Wantoks and political allies must not sit at those positions if they do not have the experiences and credentials.

This is where corruption takes hold of government systems . To reduce fraudulent activities in public sector offices, a recruitment system has to be set up in future to recruit eligible candidates from within and overseas who can deliver on policy provisions and delivery of goods and services to cities, towns and villages in the country.

Meanwhile, a proper review of ‘who’ is doing ‘what’ is long overdue, starting with the prime minister’s office including every position within the 32 ministries in the government.

So has PNG seen an improvement in the fight against corruption? Regardless of public and international perception on corruption, there is some signs of improvement. Task Force Sweep had arrested over 50 people and recouped K60 million. 15 MPs are currently under investigation for white collar crimes and corruption: 3 are found guilty;

- PM for Pomio Paul Tiensten is convicted of ‘making a footnote on a project proposal that compelled the officers of National Planning to bypass the lawful processes and procedures in making payment’ of K10 million to Travel Air  and is serving 9 years in Bomana Prison

- Gulf Governor Havila Kavo is given 3 years prison sentence for has been found guilty of misusing K130 000 from a trust account belonging to the people of Kikori district for infrastructure.

- MP for Komo-Magarima Francis Potape found guilty by the National Court of misusing K330,000 of public funds.

Many Papua New Guineans thought maximum sentence of 10 years for misappropriation of public funds did not match the amount of money these white collar criminals and fraudsters siphoned. But the fact is that justice was served. That is what matters the most.

Task Force Sweep has to keep the momentum. The government has to release funds for it to operate. Not doing so means that Peter O'Neill and Leo Dion's government are starving a vital investigative body to death, thus nursing corruption. 

#PNG governor jailed, MPs facing corruption charges. Via @Post_Courier pic.twitter.com/3PNKtNQlGK

— Stefan Armbruster (@StefArmbruster) December 10, 2014

Blast from the recent past | Goroka Coffee Ranked Third in World Competition

Quality coffee produced by a local coffee producer was ranked third in an international coffee cupping competition in the United States of America recently.

The Sihereni coffee estate, owned and operated by David Orimarie in the Kwonghi area of Upper Asaro Local Level Government in Daulo District of Eastern Highlands Province won the 3rd placing among a total of 30 coffee samples of different coffee producing countries collected by Ecom Trading around the world.

The coffee was tasted and certified by the Rainforest Alliance under “The Best of Ecom Coffee” competition using cupping standards of the Specialty Coffee Association of America.

During a recent announcement of the award at the Heaven Resort in Goroka, managing director of Monpi Coffee Exports,Chris Anders expressed great satisfaction on the achievement. Monpi Coffee Exports is a subsidiary of Ecom Trading, an international commodity trading company. Anders said, the result reflects the commitment and persistency of Orimarie to achieve top quality coffee.

“Sihereni’s achievement is an achievement of the PNG coffee industry,” said Anders.

Orimarie acquired the 22 hectares estate planted with a mixture of Arusha and Blue Mountain, in 2002 and has been in partnership with the Monpi Coffee Exports to improve his wet mill and acquire advice on agronomy, better business practice and seek niche markets. He expressesed great satisfaction on the achievement and attributed the achievement to Monpi Coffee Exports for the much needed advice and guidance.

“Quality control is the basis of our operation. Quality control standards have been established and are made sure they are maintained at all times,” said Orimarie in a previous media report written by reporter James Kila.

The report states that Sihereni has developed quickly to gain more reputation in the international and local coffee and finance community through its initiatives to produce quality coffee and practice good financial management.

The coffee samples from Sihereni scored 85 points and was described as having the taste of; melon, black tea, grapefruit, intense fruit, herby, tomato soup, sweet, bright acidity, medium body, adds grapefruit and floras in finish as cools.

Manager for Industry Regulation and Compliance at the Coffee Industry Corporation,Sam Menanga, shared similar sentiments and urged other coffee companies to follow suit in producing quality coffee to attract niche markets.

From POST COURIER

Fri 25 Oct 2013

PNG LNG | Do You Know ExxonMobil Can Recover Development Cost Under 5 Years

This analysis is based on the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) response to series of questions from the Opposition. Including latest report from the nation’s television broadcaster EMTV news on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) production in the country.

Many Papua New Guineans thought the US$19 billion earmarked for PNGLNG development was a huge investment. The amount actually spent was less.  A report from EMTV revealed that ExxonMobil saved over US$8 billion during construction phase.

To date over 42 shipments have left PNG shores.The Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, when responding to Deputy Opposition leader questions about the shipments of LNG products, said a shipment was valued at US$50, 000, 000 on average. 

Expenditure margin has been reduced when ExxonMobil moved from development to production. Perhaps it is important to consider the savings of US£8 billion - a savings of 30% . Another good news for shareholders is that the company is likely to recover all the development costs – US$11 billion – in just 5 years.

For clarity: if 42 shipments worth on average US$50 000 000 each, ExxonMobile has made US$2.1 billion in six months. Double it to give US$4.2 billion in one year. So, in 5 years if oil price averages at the current rate, the project would have made US$21 billion.

So what does that mean? That means that the every shareholder would enjoy the fruit of their investments. What is not so right is the fact that PNG Government has borrowed heavily to partake in this business.

So, who is going to benefit from PNG LNG project?

O'Neill Referred | 3 Allegations Of Misconduct By Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

Peter O'Neill [Google Pics]

Referral of the Prime Minister to a Leadership Tribunal was confirmed. The news was a ‘Breaking News’ on Sharp Talk. It was interesting to note that people close to the prime minister didn’t know.

Yet, this particular referral process has taken three months. Ombudsman Commission (OC) referred Peter O’Neill on Tuesday 12^th of August, 2014. 

According to the Public Prosecutor the initial referral did not contain sufficient evidence, credible to request the Chief Justice to appoint a Leadership Tribunal. OC has now provided cogent evidence, convincing to see this judicial process through.

Peter O’Neill referral is based  on 3 allegations reported in the Post Courier on 13^th August 2014:

The Prime Minister failed to comply with administrative and financial processes including the normal overseas borrowing process in the approval of the K3 billion loan from the Union Bank of Switzerland AF (Australia Branch);

The leader having made a media release on the sacking of Mr Don Polye as the Minister for Treasury by saying that Mr Don Polye caused instability in the Government, when the actual reason was to do with Mr Polye’s refusal to sign the UBS Loan deal which the Prime Minister had unilaterally approved on March 6, 2014; and

The leader made a misleading statement on EMTV that he had obtained advice from the state agencies including Bank of Papua New Guinea on the UBS loan to purchase Oil Search shares, which was contrary to the evidence received.

Until Friday 14^th 2014, no one has thought the Public Prosecutor would have made this bold move. To request Chief Justice to call for a Leadership Tribunal is a step in the right direction. The tribunal will deliberate on the process and transparency surrounding the K3 billion loan from Union Bank of Switzerland, the UBS.

Has the Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill, complied with due process? Has he sacked Don Polye for the right reason? Has he obtained advise from appropriate institutions before signing off the loan? Those questions will be tested against the OCs evidence. 

Facing the evidence is what Peter O'Neill has dreaded. That's his great phobia. He must subject himself to this referral.  He can only proclaim his innocence by proving to the contrary any evidence provided to a Leadership Tribunal by the OC. 

Sir Peter Barter Passed On His Legacy Lives On

Sir Peter Barter dies in Cairns: The family of former Papua New Guinea cabinet minister Sir Peter Barter has announced his death on Wednesday at Cairns Hospital, Queensland.

Sir Peter spent 55 years in PNG, after going there to work as a pilot for the Divine Word missionaries.

He later became a prominent businessman involved in tourism, running a resort and ships, and later served three terms in parliament, becoming minister of Provincial Affairs and Health.

Sir Peter Barter          Courtesy SMH

SOCIETY, MEDIA AND SOCIAL MEDIA 

Democratic good governance depends on public debate – a debate which is based on fact, honestly and openly held views, and willingness to engage with participants who hold quite different positions. 

The Internet provides fresh – and exciting – opportunities for just such debates on important public issues. Unfortunately, however, it often falls short as some participants make ill-founded claims, or simply resort to labelling those with whom they happen to disagree. 

In complex and contested environments, such as those experienced at times in some parts of Papua New Guinea, such conduct has the potential to publicize mere assertions, even untruths, or, particularly when labelling is involved, personal abuse. 

In doing so, it may add or give rise to tensions on the ground.

Sir Peter Barter work as Minister for Bougainville Affairs

As Minister for Bougainville Affairs, the challenges I faced included working to build trust not only in government but between ex-combatants on different sides of the previous conflict, and within and between communities around Bougainville. 

Similar challenges arose when the 2002 elections in Southern Highlands failed. 

My responsibilities included rebuilding the trust which is basic to peace, democracy and good governance on the ground. 

Media must contribute to informed debate 

Anyone who values the free exchanges which are vital to democracy must, surely, appreciate the opportunities that blogs and other sites on the Internet provide. 

However, the ways in which some participants make unfounded assertions or simply ‘slag off’ at those with whom they disagree must, surely, be cause for concern. In doing so, they do not contribute to the informed debate or help build the trust and mutual confidence in government and the wider community which are basic to public order and development. 

What Sir Peter Barter said about PNG Social Media

In this regard, contributors to social media would be well advised to bear in the wider – social – context in which they are expressing themselves, and that the role of media is to transmit what they say to a much wider audience which may not be aware of the immediate issues or context in which they are expressing themselves, or have ready access to other sources of information and opinion. 

In short, freedom of expression should be accompanied by an appropriate sense of responsibility.

Autonomous Region of Bougainville

Having been privileged to serve as the Minister with primary responsibility for the Bougainville Affairs for eight years, I continue to maintain a keen interest in the progress that is being made in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. 

In doing so, I remain in personal contact with the President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Hon. Dr John Momis and other Bougainvillean leaders, as well as students at the Divine Word University (where I have the honour of being a Council Member).

Without wishing to dwell on the past, I would like to make it clear that the negotiations which produced and then gave legal effect to the Bougainville Peace Agreement by amending the National Constitution and enacting the Organic Law on Peace-Building in Bougainville involved Bougainvillean leaders on all sides of the previous conflict, support by the United Nations, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries, and, most importantly, the active participation of the churches, individuals like the late Theodore Miriung, as well as women and men around Bougainville. 

These efforts led to the making of the Bougainville Constitution, the formation of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), and, now, the work underway to bring about restoration and development on the ground, the transfer of functions and powers to the ABG, and preparations for the guaranteed referendum on Bougainville’s political future (due to be held, when good governance and weapons disposal have been achieved, between 2015 and 2020).

Sir Peter Barter and his work on the Autonomous Region of Bougainville

As Minister for Bougainville Affairs, I saw my immediate task to help make and build peace on the ground, and secure the resources required to provide essential services to the people. Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the European Union, and other aid donors provided generous support.

Aware of the sensitivities among local communities, in particular, I did not encourage discussion about the future of mining at Panguna. 

However, I did make public my view that, in order to be truly autonomous, or become independent following the referendum, Bougainville would need to have an economy and become less reliant on donor aid. 

This is clearly a prime concern of the ABG and the people of Bougainville. They want Bougainville to be autonomous, and, in the event the people vote for independence and the National Parliament agrees, they do not want to be beggars.

Throughout my time as Minister, I had to deal with the sensitivities of the various factions, and endeavour to establish an environment in which the peace process could keep moving ahead - as it has, in fact, done. Though there may be people who disagree, I am confident that significant progress has been made, and that this will continue if we can harness the resources we have available now and in the future.

2002 Southern Highlands failed elections

In addition to my responsibilities as Minister for Bougainville Affairs, I had to deal with the failed elections in the Southern Highlands and, ultimately, the establishment of the Hela and Jiwaka Provinces. 

I used many of the same processes learnt in Bougainville to help bring back some semblance of law and order and ensure an environment in which elections could take place. 

An important lesson I learnt is that you cannot wave a magic wand to bring about peace; peace can only occur if everyone wants peace; peace begins in the hearts of those who want peace!

Freedom and diversity of the views expressed in social media

Many of us appreciate the freedom and diversity of the views expressed in social media concerning Bougainville and other important issues and parts of Papua New Guinea. 

However, in doing so, we cannot help but be concerned at the ways in which some participants behave and express themselves as if they have the licence to say whatever they choose, however sarcastically and disrespectfully they seek to express themselves and even impose their views. 

Errors of fact, exaggerations, deliberate untruths and the application of unwarranted and unwelcome labels to other individuals, groups or organizations may cause offence, even hurt, to those who are targeted, including people who are innocent or, perhaps, unaware of the allegations being made or slurs being cast. 

True democratic debate in PNG

Truly democratic debate is a matter of honesty, openness and trust in the integrity of other participants and the process as a whole. 

It is accordingly important that participants in blogs and other social media recognize the importance of these values, the role they are playing, and the need to behave in ways which are consistent with – and so help to reinforce – the very democratic values on which they rely.

Like every other country, Papua New Guinea cannot claim to be perfect. Amid our diversity, we have impressive – including some quite unique - national strengths. 

We also have important national challenges to address and overcome. While criticism can be vital to inform national debate in a democracy, ridicule and abuse are not; they frequently represent an abuse of free speech that would be condemned elsewhere, including the countries from which some of it originates.

Papua New Guinea development  dilemma

Papua New Guinea needs improvements in health, education, employment and other opportunities for youth, which would help to reduce temptations to crime and reduce our reliance on foreign aid. 

A more self-reliant society and economy are important keys to a sustainable future. 

While it is not the only way forward, these are precisely the issues being addressed and the reasons why mining is receiving increasing attention in Bougainville. 

It is vital both to democratic good governance and to Bougainville’s future that participants in the discussions in Bougainville are not labelled in derogatory ways, or subjected to abuse or ill-founded accusations. 

Like participants in other democratic debates, they are entitled to be treated with honesty and respect. While they have the right to freedom of speech, contributors to social media should recognize the responsibilities that participation in the social and media aspects of their activities entails.

Papua New Guinea is an independent country. We have come a long way. Anyone who knows or cares for Papua New Guinea can only be impressed with the development that has taken place while recognizing that much still needs to be done. 

Sir Peter Barter balanced comments

My comments concerning social media are not directed against any specific person(s) or organization(s). 

My aim is simply to ensure that Papua New Guinea keeps moving ahead – towards what I believe are shared national objectives of more equitable distribution of wealth, more employment, and sustainable self-reliance based on agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and a responsible approach towards mining and resource development that will bring about improved services to the people of Papua New Guinea.

I, therefore, call on users of social media, both in-country and overseas, to adopt – and on their audiences to encourage - and promote a positive, respectful and optimistic approach when discussing issues in and affecting Papua New Guinea. 

The word ‘optimism’ comes from the Latin word ‘optimus’, meaning "best". An optimistic approach is one which leads one to look for the best in any situation, whether or not it is really welcome. While self-awareness and self-criticism are important, slagging off at our country or particular national actors is unlikely to lead to positive outcomes. The key to a successful future is mutual and self-respect, and an optimistic approach towards the opportunities and challenges we face.

Peter Barter, GCL. OBE. Kt

Oct 10, 2014

Educators trained on new curriculum | Too much politics, too much talk, nothing done, Dr Michael Tapo PNG Education Secretary

Post Courier report 12/11/2014 
By NELLIE SETEPANO [Reposted]

EDUCATORS attending a week long training on standards-based education in Port Moresby have been told to work with the education hierarchy to implement government policies.

Education Secretary Michael Tapo made this clear when addressing education trainers on Monday

Speaking about a variety of issues within the education sector, the secretary told participants, especially provincial education officers, to work with him to implement policies.

"There is too much talking and nothing done. There is too much politics, too much talk."

He told educators not to blame setbacks on the unavailability of money but blame their own attitude and negligence.

The secretary was among other officers from the Education Department’s curriculum section who spoke to trainers from provinces about the purpose of the training and about their roles and responsibilities of training teachers about standards-based education or curriculum.

Standards-based education is all about improving education standards in schools. These come in the form of teacher preparations and professional development, examinations, inspections, school governance and restructuring of school system and structures. These are just some of the many components that will be improved by a standards-based curriculum.

Despite this training, there are also public concerns that the trainings are late as holidays are approaching and teachers may not have time to be fully-equipped on time for the new curriculum to be implemented in the 2015 academic year, beginning at the elementary level.

The education secretary was adamant that this Government policy would be rolled out with all components for the curriculum now being sent out to schools. There are presentations of curriculum documents to schools and stakeholders.

Oh, How I Wish These Days Are Better Than The 1980s

Successive governments have done their best to deliver much needed service to every citizen. From Sir Michael Somare to Peter O’Neill, Papua New Guinea has seen many changes in politics, economics, social, education, health, Law and Justice and many other sectors.

Compared to the mid-1970s, have the changes been better? Children who grew up in the late 1970s and early 1980s would beg to differ in opinion as far as changes are concerned. In fact, the democratically elected governments at the National, Provincial and Local levels have served well. Public servants played their roles by meeting people's demand for service.

Services to communities were effectively administered locally by Aid Post Orderly, primary school teachers, local police men, village court magistrates, peace and good order committee and district administrators.

This was a time when public service took pride in their jobs. I remember our local APO - a good man. He served 4 villages with dignity and humanity. He would walk 3 hours to the nearest health centre to procure get medical supply, every month. He sometimes sent his boys who would take us along with them.

Teaching would commence at day one of academic year. Lesson planning would be evident in delivery of lessons. We learnt to read and write fairly well before reaching Grade 3. By then, our handwriting, memorsing times-table and reading were better than any grade 3 today. At the age of 9, I started writing letters to my dad. Teachers at the village 'community' school taught us well.

I bet this is what many who are attending 'primary' schools could not do today. Why? What went wrong along the way?

My grandpa was village court magistrate. He solved problems and made referrals when (and where) needed to district court. Law and Order existed in the village. Respect for village elders was obvious.

The early years where the best days for a child to grow up in the village. Everything needed was there - security, food, school, family, kids' play and good life. All.

I am sure you will have your story if your childhood was same as mine. Those were the days. Life was good.

Oh, I wish these days are better!

MORE Early 70s/80s Photos of Papua New Guinea CLICK HERE

National Education Plan 2015 - 2019 Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world

As PNG looks forward to another 5-year National Education Plan, NEP 2015 – 2019, over 21000 grade 12 graduates are competing for one of the 4500 places at tertiary institutions nationwide.  Where will 80% of these young men and women go? What is their future? How do we arm them with the 'most powerful weapon' - EDUCATION after grade 12?

NEP 2005 – 2014 clearly outlined specific recommendations (and ways) to achieve its goals. The vision was clear. I will pinpoint certain areas where government and National Department of Education (NDoE) should have done right in articles (II) – (IV).

This article gives an introductory remark on way forward in next 10 years by looking at why Nelson Mandela said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”



His words are relevant in PNG now.

This great man gave his speech during his first visit to the US after his release from 27 years imprisonment. In the early 1990 many students dropped out of school. That was why he stressed the importance of school and education. He wanted to get the message to every student - young man and woman who was present that time.

He also said “This [students dropping out from school] is a very disturbing situation, because the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow,” he told the students . He urged students to “try as much as possible to remain in school.”

The message was clear: he gave it at the right time to the right audience. Many students present took the message in.  Here is one example.

Papua New Guinea education planners need to get this message in, too. Education consultants, researchers, NDoE secretary and time wasters at the department must get their heads together.

This isn’t a time for planning as it may seem. It is time for planning and implementing a new (or adjusted) 10-year vision.

The words of Mandela rings through to this day when over 80% of Grade 12s do not have a place in higher educational institutions. It is time to create National Education Plan that encompasses not only the UN’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), BUT also relevant to PNG.

Why not start by addressing high dropout rate? Look no further than do what needed done is the best way forward.

How much do PNG Rugby League players Earn?

Papua New Guinea Rugby League (PNGRL) officials are caught out when the recently promoted head coach of Gateshead Thunders signed 4 talented players from PNG Hunters. 

The immediate counterword was ‘protocol’. PNGRL will release a statement on Monday the 3^rd of November. If the protocol has been bridged, what then?

This is a serious issue. PNG Government, sponsors and PNGRL have developed something unique last year through PNG Hunters. For this not to repeat, the management of PNG Hunters will set a precedence to safeguard their players – they will send out a clear message to players, scouts, agents and admirers.

If the situation hits a deadlock, it may mean the visa application is stalled. Their dreams of playing for Gateshead Thunders and their future in the UK or PNG could be shattered. They are likely to be terminated from playing with the PNG Hunters or the national team. Their future in RL is gloomy.

Stanley Gene’s career can also be jeopardised if he did not follow due process. If there was an International Rugby League Code Of Ethics to deal with this issue, Stan would be aptly disciplined. However, he can escape this predicament for now.

Stanley has admitted that he did not talk to PNGRL and PNG Hunter's management. But in all honesty, Stan’s intention wasn’t that sinister. Take a look at the benefits these 4 players are likely to enjoy posted on QPNG Rugby League News & Views by Chris Thompson:

GREEN GREEN GRASS OF ENGLAND

1. House - A house will be supplied for the boys to live in communally.

2. Car -  A car will be supplied whoever chooses to get a UK driver's licence will be able to drive it,

3. Money - Players will be full-time as paid professional players.

4.  Education - Gateshead College will be available for any players wanting a tertiary education for life after rugby league.

 5. Future - Gateshead Thunders is the owner is a Multi-millionaire with the vision of getting Gateshead elevated into The Super League Competition in the next few years.

Others

6. Travel – Given their status as seasoned international players plane tickets to the UK and back to PNG.
7. Insurance would be included in their contracts - a compulsory component of risk cover.

Perhaps the most important benefit is their salary. So, here is an insight into how much they are going to earn - take-home pay. The minimum wage in the United Kingdom is £6.50 an hour for those 21 years of age and over. These 4 young men are professionals. They are going to earn more than the minimum wage. The table puts figures for take-home pay based on UK Government's minimum wage scale. It is important to note that this is the BASE wage.

How much do PNG Rugby League players Earn?

Gateshead Thunders are going to pay these professional rugby league players more. They are NOT minimum wage earners. They are professionals. 

It is a win-win situation for everyone involved in players’ development. Stan’s intention was innocent except to give his countrymen a better chance. This is an opportunity – truly an opportunity as these 4 men wouldn’t have a chance to get a life in the northern hemisphere if it wasn’t for the head coach of Gateshead Thunders.

This is their life. Let them have it.

Lae School Fights (iv): Principals Face Dismissal If Schools’ Performance Does Not Improve

The UK government plans to create a body called regional school commissioners who will have powers to siege control from school identified as ‘failing’ by school inspection body Ofsted. The Independent  newspaper opening headlines read ‘ Government-appointed officials to remove governors and head teachers in failing schools….’ (18/10/2014). Under their control they will send 1500 ‘super teachers’ into struggling classrooms in an effort to boost students’ performance and improve schools’ ranking.

The whole idea was to challenge school governors, principals and deputy principals to pull-their-socks-up.

Lae city schools have senior education officers who have been sitting at the principal’s seats with years of experience. Some even feel as if they are irreplaceable. It is time Morobe Provincial Government comes up with a plan to challenge principals and deputy principals of troubled schools within the city.

This is not only about fighting against schools fights. It is also about improving schools’ academic performance - about improving ranking of Lae city schools.

So, if school governors and admins need motivation it must come from Morobe Provincial Government. The Government must take ownership of the schools in the province and step on the administration toes – show them who is in charge here.

Running a city school is not an easy task. This is clear from the onset, no one can deny it. But, governors and head teachers should be the force that drives a positive change, instead of being complacent. Why occupy a position in the admin when schools academic results are failing? Why doing the same thing over again when it didn’t work the first time?

 In fact, school governance must be based on systematic and workable guidelines - the school policies. Most schools do have all the policies that Education Department wants of them. These policies are cut and paste from national department’s documents with limited or no effect at school level. By this I mean, every school should look at ways to refine their policies to meet their needs.

What must school administrators do to improve school performance?

Drop in the number of Lae secondary school students going to tertiary institutions in successive years showed that there was urgent need to seriously reconsider the way things are done. Take a look at these as examples. Call it Guides For Principals Of All Schools In Lae City.

1.      Selecting Students – Begin With a Good School Culture

I pointed out in my first article one of the ways students join generation groups is determined by the part of city they come from. Targeting feeder schools can be an effective way to create good school atmosphere and stop students fights on the streets.

If negative students’ culture begins at primary school, school admin should re-think the traditional selection process. Instead of accepting students from the mainline schools, they should take students from outside the city.

Take for instance, city secondary schools should offer privileged places for students from remote schools like Menyamya, Wasu, Salamaua, Dregahafen, etc. All the boarding spaces should be awarded to these students with certain conditions attached. If it means expanding boarding space to 70% boarding and 30% day, it must be spearheaded by the Government to see a change.

Day students must also have conditions attested to their spaces. For example, parents must be from the working class or earning a certain amount of money in wage or salary, students must be living with a parent/s, students must be dropped off and picked up etc.

These are hints and examples for controlling enrolment and ensuring quality of students are maintained during selection of students.

(*Principals, you cannot stop students when they are fighting and killing each other at Eriku but you can stop it from happening)

2.      School Behaviour Policy – the code of conduct

This policy governs students’ ethos in classroom and around school. It is the code of conduct. They must be taught the requirements of being a student in a city school on day one: uniform, appearance, conduct, respect for teachers, respect for fellow students, respect for the public, etc.

The reason why a policy on code of conduct is important is that it neutralises bad behaviour students may have inherited from outside. When students come into a school they MUST pick up the school’s way of doing things, practice it and perfect it before they leave. This is how school influence students and prepare them to face the World.

One way to effectively implement such policy is to actually police it. That means that principals should know how to monitor students; they should know how to stop bad behaviour repeating; they should also know how to stop bad behaviour from spreading.

If it means doing random blood test on students to check for presence of illegal substance, by all means, school must do it. If it means suspending 25 students for the sake of 100, principals must take this bold step.

Perhaps the most important thing is to monitor, curtail and contain bad behaviour within schools.

(*Principals, you can create a way to neutralise bad students’ behaviour by putting in place a clear code where every student can follow from day one).

3.      School Disciplinary Policy – The Penalty

Disciplinary policy edges on the action school administration (including BoG) takes when a student has bridged School Behaviour Policy. This outlines what penalty one would have faced.

I clearly outline the step in taking disciplinary action in my third article and mentioned termination should always be considered as the last resort. Every opportunity has to be given to correct bad behaviours before this final action is taken.

In regards to Lae schools, a clear message has to go out to parents. They have to be made to sign a declaration to protect their child/ren. This means that parents have to agree with school’s code of conduct (School Behaviour Policy). By doing this parents agree to let school monitor and correct any behaviour contrary to schools' best practice.

END: Board of Governors and school administrators in Lae city schools MUST think about how to improve their school’s performance. Start fighting bad student behaviours. Create workable school policies to encourage good behaviour. This is a big challenge for all the principals and deputy principals in Lae city schools.

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I will give a summary of articles (i) - (iv) in my final post. 

EXXON MOBIL PNG LNG PROCEEDS : How Much Has Been Made Within 5 months?

The article discusses the proceeds generated from the PNG LNG sales within the first five months of operation. It addresses contradictions in the Prime Minister's statements and raises concerns about possible misinformation and irregularities in handling the country's revenue.

*Calculations are based on responses from the Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, when questioned Don Polye and Sam Basil. 

ExxonMobil PNG LNG project

The PNG LNG project, launched on 26th May 2014, has witnessed 12 shipments of liquefied natural gas reaching Japan within a span of just five months. 

With a significant investment of USD$19 billion, the project is estimated to continue production for the next 30 years. However, recent statements by then Prime Minister Peter O'Neill have sparked debates over the actual revenue generated from these initial shipments.

According to Prime Minister O'Neill's response to questions posed by Don Polye and Sam Basil, the proceeds from the sales of these 12 LNG shipments amount to more than US$600 million. This indicates a promising start to the project's revenue generation. However, further scrutiny reveals some irregularities in the Prime Minister's response that warrant attention.

The first contradiction lies in the projected duration of the LNG project. While media outlets and Exxon Mobile claim a 30-year lifespan, the Prime Minister mentioned a 20-year duration during his response. This discrepancy of 10 years could potentially result in a loss of one-third of the projected revenue. Such inconsistencies raise concerns about the accuracy of the information provided to the public and stakeholders.

EXXON MOBIL PNG LNG PROCEEDS

The second concern arises from the PNG government Hansard, which highlights the Treasurer's previous statement about an undisclosed amount of the government's cut being kept in Trust Accounts during a parliamentary debate. However, the Prime Minister's response contradicts this, creating confusion among the international community and stakeholders. Transparency and consistency in communicating financial matters are essential for fostering trust and confidence in the project.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister's assertion that the revenue will start flowing into the government's coffers from 2015 onwards raises eyebrows. The decision regarding revenue allocation typically rests with the company's board of directors, rather than the Prime Minister or the government. This statement prompts further inquiry into the management and oversight of the project's financial affairs.

Summary:

In summary, the PNG LNG project has seen initial success, generating over US$600 million from 12 shipments within five months. However, discrepancies in the Prime Minister's statements regarding the project's duration and the handling of revenue distribution raise concerns about misinformation and irregularities. Clear and transparent communication is crucial when dealing with substantial amounts of the country's currency, and it is essential to address these issues promptly to avoid any potential long-term consequences. The government must prioritize accuracy and accountability to ensure a successful and sustainable future for the PNG LNG project.

By the start of production, the Project had spent nearly 11 billion Kina (US$4.53 billion) on combined Lanco and non-Lanco services #PNGLNG
— ExxonMobil PNG (@ExxonMobil_PNG) October 17, 2014