Minister for Sports

Money worth spending

"The Games will cost quite a fair bit of money but I think it’s a money well spent,” the minister said.

Polye confirmed that preparation for accommodation has begun. Classroom buildings are undergoing maintenance and should be ready to accommodate the athletes before the games begin.

"Those places where the games will be played, we are now beginning to commence the work of upgrading classrooms and other facilities there," said Polye. 

Sports facilities not for use for political campaigns

This is to avoid any political campaigns and rallies to be held inside these sporting grounds.

Minister for Sports, Justin Tkatchenko says the PNG Sports Foundation Board chairman and management team have made the decision that no government sporting facility will be used for political purposes.

“All intending candidate will not be using these facilities for political gain or campaign and that decision is final.”

PNG building up to host 2018 APEC Summit

Minister for Sports, National Events and APEC, Justin Tkatchenko stressed yesterday during the announcement of the 10th Ministerial Meeting which will be one of the major meets held in PNG leading up to the APEC Summit in 2018.

“As far as we’re concerned, procedures and guideline are being followed to make sure PNG will be ready in 2018,”says Tkatchenko.

He states that the biggest issue at hand is not the infrastructure or preparation on the ground; it’s more of the security aspect that we have to get right.

APEC Ministerial Transport Meet to test system: Tkatchenko

This will be afforded full support from the APEC Authority to endure safety and efficiency of this meeting.

Minister for Sports, National Events and APEC, Justin Tkatchenko says PNG hosted the 42nd APEC Transport Working Group in April 2016 that laid the ground work for the Ministerial Meeting.

“This Ministerial Meeting will provide the opportunity to fully test our systems and our officials and staff that will be deployed during our host year,” says Tkatchenko.

PNG and Argentina to sign deal for rugby talent

This was announced by Minister for Sports, APEC and National Events, Justin Tkatchenko.

“The details are still yet to be concreted, but the whole incentive is there to make it happen,” said Tkatchenko.

He said it was a surprise move by the Argentinean Ambassador to PNG, Hugo Javier, who pitched the idea to Tkatchenko.

The Ambassador said there could space available for up to four talented rugby prospects from PNG in their country.