PNG Constitutional and Law Reform Commission

The event is hosted by the National Council of Women, in partnership with the Department of Community Development and the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission.

The five-day consultative workshop, expected to end on Friday, is hosting discussions on the establishment of proper administrative structures, identifying inclusive NCW regulations and a five-year strategic plan.

In accordance with the theme: “Empowering and transforming NCWs at all levels”, NCW Treasurer Jane Kenni told Loop PNG that the event aims to provide basis for the women’s act.

The PNG Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (PNG CLRC) is working with the Science and Technology Secretariat Council to look into this.

PNG CLRC secretary Dr Eric Kwa says IP rights can limit access to pharmaceuticals, access to knowledge and genetic resources in conservation areas.

Dr Kwa said there may be scientists who would like to do some scientific work in conservation areas so we need to safeguard the genetic resources that belong to these protected areas.

PNG Constitutional and Law Reform Commission Secretary, Dr Eric Kwa says the Protected Area Bill that is still being drafted, must focus on the development services that will benefit the people.

“The final PA Bill must have a benefit sharing provision that includes sustainable financing.”

Kwa said this while making reference to the Forestry Bill and Climate Change Bill that include benefit sharing.

He said the PA Bill must explain the benefits for the locals and landowners.

PNG Constitutional and Law Reform Commission Secretary, Dr Eric Kwa has revealed that provincial governments (PGs) do not have the capacity to fund and provide the human resource and facilities for PAs.

Dr Kwa said PGs are currently more concerned with money raising activities and environment issues are not a priority at the PG level.

“There are no offices for environment at the different provincial levels because there’s no funding and properly trained people and facilities,” Kwa said.

PNG Constitutional and Law Reform Commission Secretary, Dr Eric Kwa, says engaging government at the provincial, district and Local Level Government (LLG) is vital in terms of funding.

Kwa said during the consultation workshop on PAs this week that the development, management and the monitoring of environmental policies and laws must be done at the provincial level.