Prime Minister

PM demands explanation from Correctional Services

The PM has further announced a ban on all day temporary release of prisoners, except under exceptional circumstances, until a review of procedures is undertaken, and the enactment of stronger penalties for prisoners who escape lawful custody as well as those who aide or harbour them.

“The escape of six prisoners on day release is intolerable and places communities at risk,” PM O’Neill said.

“Some of these prisoners have attempted escape in the past and should never have been allowed outside prison walls.

PM O’Neill confident on economy

O’Neill in a statement said a strong and stable government, supported by an overwhelming majority in the National Parliament, is the foundation that will guide us through the challenges and opportunities of the coming five years.

PM O’Neill said the country have been through very tough times, and there are challenges that remain but the Government will manage it amicably.

He added that the reduced world commodity prices, and the impact of drought, are among several factors that have placed pressure on our economy.

Spare a thought for others: PM

“Invite them into your home to share the spirit with you,” says Prime Minister Peter O’Neill.

“Look after each other, and set an example for those around you.”

The PM says further says it is at this time of year we come together as a Nation.

“In our communities, our Churches and in our family homes, we celebrate the birth of our Saviour.

“This birth in a manger in Bethlehem, more than 2,000 years ago, was the start of a new era for humankind.

“Through our Christian faith we celebrate goodwill, and we share a belief in doing the right thing.

O’Neill positive for this season

“And hopefully everyone has a very safe new year and I want to stress do it in a very orderly manner.

“We want to see you next year; we hear a lot of accidents happen during Christmas and New Year.

He gave an overview of the country thus far stating some of the challenges his government has faced against these backdrops.

“ In 2014, 15 we had a long eight months of drought, we’ve created a lot of stress in our business community and of course our own people.

O’Neill invites business leaders to APEC 2018

Speaking alongside the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, and Vice Premier of China, H.E. Wang Yang, at the Fortune 500 Global Forum in Guangzhou, China, yesterday morning, the Prime Minister also promoted the key elements of the APEC 2018 agenda.

“Logistics and security preparations are underway for Papua New Guinea to receive the 15,000 delegates and businesspeople, as well as world leaders, who will attend APEC events next year,” PM O’Neill said.

Contractors to be held accountable

That was the clear message delivered by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill when opening a new classroom in Kimbe, West New Britain Province.

“Continuing to improve education is our government’s commitment to our future generations,” he reiterated.

“Better education provides the greatest hope for our children, particularly in remote and rural areas.

“In 2018 we have allocated K1.29 billion for the education sector, which is nearly 9 percent of National Budget. This is an increase of 13 percent from the 2017 Supplementary Budget.”

PM challenges implementation of GBV laws

The PM was speaking in reference to a question raised by the East Sepik Governor Allan Bird highlighting the need for parliament to be more proactive on the agenda of gender-based violence and abuse in the country.

The Prime Minister made reference to laws and acts already in place that are designed to give protection to women, children and the most vulnerable in our society.

The PM however noted that it is the implementation of these laws which is a concern.

PM calls on Madang MP to serve people

O’Neill made the call after being asked by Kramer on where to give evidence of corrupt dealings by leaders.

The vocal Madang MP Bryan Kramer told Parliament today that he has evidence of PM O’Neill authorizing a payment requested by former Madang MP which had been found illegal by the courts.

Kramer was making a reference to a question raised by Sir Mekere Morauta yesterday in Parliament where PM responded saying he would resign if found misusing a toea belonging to the people.

O’Neill asked to explain closure of TFS

Former Prime Minister, now current Moresby Northwest MP, Sir Mekere Morauta, asked O’Neill to clearly indicate and clarify why he closed the TFSW when it was really doing a fantastic job led by a prominent lawyer Sam Koim

Sir Mekere told the Parliament today during its first sitting, that the Task Force Sweep Team had been commended by so many people for the work they have done and called on the PM to explain its closure

“Why did the Government close the Task Force Sweep Team office?

PM highlights importance of digital economy

He said APEC economies continue to make progress in expanding the use of these platforms by people around the region.

“Today we live in a digital world and the continued use of technology in our economies is growing by the day.

Papua New Guinea will continue to build on our technology uptake.

“This will ensure that our communities, particularly in remote locations, can use new technologies to participate in the economy, and for the delivery social services and education.

“I am very pleased to see many of our young people adapting to new technology.