Peter O’Neill

O’Neill calls on PNGSDP Chairman to resign

O’Neill urged the chairman of PNGSDP to respect rules of the program that prevent active politicians holding a position on the board.

PM O’Neill said in addition to the breach of PNGSDP rules, the known mismanagement of SDP funds, with millions of US dollars missing, there is no other choice for the Chairman, but to resign.

“SDP funds belong to the children, women and men of Western Province, not the Chairman,” the Prime Minister said.

“SDP money is being used to fund Mekere’s mates, who are paid millions of dollars in commissions and consultancy fees.

Let the people decide: PM O’Neill

Those were the remarks from Prime Minister Peter O’Neill when delivering his party policies at the National Research Institute today in Port Moresby.

O’Neill’s party, People’s National Congress (PNC) is the leading coalition partner in the Government.

O’Neill said every PNC candidate contesting in the elections will not force people to vote for them rather let the people make decisions on their own.

“We have delivered to the people and let them make decision as to whether they will mandate us again or not.

High hopes for PNG-Townsville relationship

PM O’Neill was in high spirits as he led the PNG delegation on the first ever direct flight from Port Moresby to Townsville, Australia, via Air Niugini, on Friday.

Air Niugini made its inaugural flight direct from Port Moresby into Townsville, and this direct service will provide the opportunity for convenient travel among business and educational opportunities, says the Prime Minister.

“About two years ago I visited Townsville, I made that commitment to try and encourage Air Niugini to fly here,” said the PM.

Somare’s wisdom and knowledge to be missed

Prime Minister O’Neill said this when acknowledging Sir Michael’s final speech in Parliament today.

O’Neill said Parliament will be a different place when it convenes after the National Elections.

He said today’s sitting marked a milestone for the country and Sir Michael as the curtain came down on his illustrious political career.

“Honorable Members, I thank the Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, for his contribution to Papua New Guinea, to the National Parliament, and for guiding us to Independence.

Lady Veronica acknowledged

O’Neill also recognised their children and family and their contributions to the country.

Lade Veronica was present today in Parliament chambers during Sir Michaels farewell parliamentary session.

“Mr Speaker, it remains for me to pay special tribute to the Grand Chief’s family, who have been his rock over such a long period in public life.

“I know the House, and the Nation, will join with me in expressing our gratitude and best wishes to Lady Veronica,” said O’Neill.

Government is maintaining its debt level: PM

He says there is no need for panic.

O'Neill made this assurance when responding to Deputy Opposition Leader Sam Basil on the recent loan the government obtained from the Asian Development Bank.

Basil questioned the Prime Minister and needed clarification on the K80 million obtained to carry out road projects in Ialibu-Pangia in Southern Highlands Province, and the recent K222m for water supply in rural areas across the country.

Heads of churches to meet over HIV/AIDS

A media briefing was held this morning to brief media on the agenda, key speakers and officiators of the summit for the next two days.

His Eminence, Sir John Cardinal Ribat during the meet this morning said that the summit will be opened tomorrow by Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill.

“The summit will unite the heads of churches throughout Papua New Guinea and will discuss sensitive issues relating to HIV and AIDS such as Gender Based Violence (GBV), stigma and discrimination, human rights, access to service in issues affecting the key population’s in the country.

PNG not facing cash flow problem, says O’Neill

He told the media this week that the National Government is funding its key sector policies of education, health and infrastructure despite the drop in income revenue from its exports.     

O’Neill said the country must live within its means, which resulted in a slight decrease in this year’s budget.

The Prime Minister said all public servants are getting paid on time, including politicians, because the country does not have a cash flow problem.

Govt will foster equality in departments

In his International Women’s Day speech on Wednesday, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said: “We can be proud that today we have more women in senior roles than at any other time in our history.

“These are women as departmental heads and through staffing ranks, and in our judiciary.

“But this is not enough and continuous action speaks louder than words.”

The PM says we are seeing positive change in our schools, with the number of girls receiving an education continuing to grow.

Guns law to be tightened: O’Neill

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said, his government is committed to ridding unlicensed and illegal firearms in PNG, and the Hela Operation is a starting point.

“After 28 March, we will introduce legislations on summary offences – if you are caught in the possession of an illegal firearm the recommendation to the law is that you get 10 years imprisonment with hard labour, and fined K10,000 as well,” O’Neill said.

The Prime Minister also commended the people of Hela for taking on-board the initiative in the amnesty period to surrender illegal firearms.