Madang Governor Peter Yama has called on the Government to do away with Australian aid over what he claims are disrespectful actions.
He also supported the Prime Minister’s statement that Australia’s visa requirements are discriminatory.
Yama said this on Thursday when asking on the wet-lease arrangement surrounding the two Australian Defence Force helicopters on lease to PNG.
Governor Yama was visibly still upset about the event of August 30 in which he was denied the use of one of the leased helicopters over ‘protocol’ reasons.
Governor Yama said despite being in communication with PNGDF Commander, Gilbert Torpo, in the presence of Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Banda, and the Deputy Controller on the ground, they were refused by pilots.
He then went on to state that PNG does not need Australia’s aid anymore.
Defence Minister Solan Mirisim said Yama may have needed to get clearance from Toropo and then him as Minister to gain access to the chopper.
However, the Minister also said he should appreciate that PNGDF personnel were already on the ground to assist with disaster efforts.