Six new mining policies have been developed to guide mining activities for both on-shore and off-shore projects.
This was highlighted yesterday during the launching of the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management’s Corporate Plan 2017 – 2022 and Strategic Plan 2017 – 2022 in Port Moresby.
Minister for Mining, Byron Chan, in his keynote address said the policies accompany the recently concluded Mining Act review carried out by the DMPGM to improve the supervision of mining activity in the country.
"The revised Mining Act and the new mining sector policies encourages the application of international best practices to ensure there is sustainability in the mining sector while incorporating local content aspirations of our project affected communities,” he said.
The six new policies include:
- Mining Policy;
- Offshore Mining Policy;
- Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Policy;
- Sustainable Mining Development Policy;
- Mining Involuntary Resettlement Policy; and
- Geothermal Resource Policy.
Chan said despite limited financial resources, DMPGM was able to successfully complete the review exercise.
He said the policies are now before cabinet for endorsement.
Also highlighted was the upgrading of all monitoring equipment and machinery throughout the country under the Geohazards Management Division. Notable projects include:
- Disaster Early Warning System for PNG
- Landslide Hazard Mapping for the Okuk Highway
- Accreditation of the new EG Laboratory
- Volcano, Earthquake and Tsunami Hazard and Risk Mapping
- Establishment of a Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban-Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) International Monitoring System (IMS) station in PNG.
“With these proven track record I’m fully satisfied that the Department will move into the future wit confidence and determination and continue to serve and uphold the best interest of the state and the people of Papua New Guinea,” said Chan.
Outgoing Secretary, Shadrach Himata, commended staff of DMPGM for their commitment to saying the achievements of the Department were a result of their hard work.
He said despite challenging circumstances, the Department delivered objectives in its former five year plan successfully.
Himata also thanked stakeholders in the mining industry for assisting them in carrying out the legislative reforms as well as improving monitoring equipment and machinery
“I really want to talke this time to thank everyone for many reasons. And the fundamental reason is you helped us deliver the last chapter of the (Department) Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management,” he said.
The Corporate and Strategic Plan launching was attended by Chief Secretary, Isaac Lupari, Acting DMPGM Secretary, Harry Kore, stakeholders, and staff of the Department.
