Prime Minister Peter O'Neill

O’Neill throws down gauntlet for 2017

Prime Minister and leader of PNC, Peter O’Neill, did not mince his words when he gave his assurance to more than 1,000 invited guests as well as family and friends, and the media, at the Stanley Hotel recently during a PNC fundraising gala night.

O’Neill on that night threw down the gauntlet to his political adversaries to see who will make it back after the 2017 National Elections.

“The PNC Party celebrates its 20th year and this is the second time to lead government,” O’Neill told the gathering.

Newcrest invests over $US3 billion in PNG

This was the scenario revealed to guests at a function in Port Moresby recently by Peter Hay, chairman of the board.

Accompanied by managing director and CEO Sandeep Biswas and the management team, the Board visited Papua New Guinea  last week to see the Company’s largest mine at Lihir in New Ireland Province.

The Board and management team also had a series of productive meetings with government, landowners, communities and employees.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill was also invited to the function along with other Members of Parliament.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has not gone to Japan

The Prime Minister confirmed he is still in the country, brushing aside rumours on social media that he flew out to Japan after the Parliament sitting this afternoon.

"Why should I go to Japan, do not listen to rubbish talk," O'Neill told Loop PNG.

Airport employee also confirmed the prime minister did not fly out this afternoon.

Meanwhile, Virgin Blue and Qantas cancelled flights to Port Moresby from Australia today because of the proposed University of Papua New Guinea march to Parliament.