The Manam Resettlement Bill faced another delay in Parliament today.
The displaced people of Manam Island for 12 years have been living on mainland Madang in care centres in Bogia.
The Bill when passed by Parliament will help establish Manam Resettlement Authority to permanently resettle the displaced people.
In a voice of support, two Madang Open Members supported their Governor Jim Kas’ call for the withdrawal of the Bill in its second reading.
Kas was unhappy because the amended Bill has not been debated in the provincial assembly.
Middle Ramu MP and Minister for Agriculture Tommy Tomscoll says: “The (Manam Resettlement) Authority must not be politicized (politicians must not run the authority).
Usino Bundi MP Anton Yagama challenged politicians to follow the current process in passing laws.
“The amended Act did not go before the provincial assembly, the original Act must be passed.”
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill stepped in saying he will personally talk to all Madang MPs to find a solution because this is the second time the Act has come before Parliament.
“I move to adjourn this Bill.
“We cannot allow people to live in care centres for the next 5 to 10 years.”
Caption: File picture.