National Gaming Control Board (NGCB)

Manning said the Provincial Health Authorities and Provincial Administrators are the people on the ground who make necessary assessment and decision.

“If we don’t heed the advice and assessment of the PHA’s and the Provincial Controllers we stand to take a bigger risk that can be alleged as professional negligence."

“We have been briefed that the Delta surge will hit our country in the coming weeks so I stand by my actions and the decision by the EHP PHA and the Provincial Administrator and Governor Peter Numu,” added Manning.

The NGCB says it appreciates their views and has assured that the casino operation will be licensed to deliver maximised socio-economic benefits with minimal adverse impacts to our people.

“We will work with the civil society groups and discuss concerns regarding the social implications of the proposed casino project,” said NGCB.

Further, it will establish policies to mitigate the concerns raised, including the measures in place to prevent gambling addictions and money laundering.

It has been reported by the media that the NGCB and the Paga Hill Development Corporation (PHDC) signed an MOU to build a casino which, in its first phase of development, will cost at least K150 million.

“In signing this agreement, the State through the NGCB is seriously undermining its independence as the industry regulator. Regulators like the NGCB have the important role to uphold and maintain the probity and the integrity of operators in the gaming sector and of individuals involved in the sector,” said Chair of the TIPNG Board, Peter Aitsi, in a media statement.

After almost two years, the National Gaming Control Board held its first meeting with newly appointed board members last week.

The NGCB board include members of the business chamber, women’s council, churches and non ex officio from the Department of Finance, Treasury and the Community Development.

The board deliberated on activities that will help generate revenue and also open employment opportunities.

Acting director of the NGCB’s Community Benefit Fund (CBF), Raylene Kurua, said the fund has helped many community-based projects and they are pleased to continue to support the work of the RSPCA of PNG. 

Administration manager of the RSPCA, Johnny Kasom, when accepting the grant, thanked the NGCB for recognising the NGO’s efforts in addressing issues that affect the welfare and wellbeing of animals in Papua New Guinea.

More than 200 people, about 50 of which were trainee teachers and the Bismark Early Childhood students, gathered at the Bismark Elementary School to witness the humble reception.

Chief executive officer of the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), Imelda Agon, presented the school with a dummy cheque last week Friday. The funds will be directed towards supporting the school in constructing a new library and an ICT Lab.