Deputy Speaker of Parliament and North Fly MP Aide Ganasi

News of his passing was announced in the Parliament session today by Deputy Speaker, Aide Ganasi.

Tom Pius was first elected to the Third National Parliament in 1982 General Elections and served till 1987.

During his first term he was appointed Minister for Civil Aviation from 1983 to 1985.

He would be reelected to the Fourth National Parliament in 1987, but would temporarily lose the seat twice to Melchior Kasap, but would regain it in 1989.

Pious would then be appointed Minister for Agriculture & Livestock from 1991 and 1992.

Speaking today at the official launching of projects in Kiunga,Ganasi said the allocation of shares now confirms who the real landowners of the mine are.

"The people of Western Province can now benefit more meaningfully in a fair way," he said.

Ganasi added that apart from Ok Tedi, Western Province is also rich in forest products, inland fishery, eco tourism, oil and gas fields and will continue to contribute to the country's coffers.

He said it was about time the people of Western Province enjoyed the benefits after being spectators in the past 40 years.