Transport finalizing security policy

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, November 9, 2014 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

THE Department of Transport is in the formulations stages of finalizing its sector security policy document.

In a workshop attended by various sector agencies such as the Civil Aviation Authority, National Airports Corporation, PNG Air Services, National Maritime Safety Authority, PNG Ports, National Road Safety Council, and Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited, held last week at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby – agencies gave their response and presentation on the draft policy document.

Transport Secretary Roy Mumu, in his opening speech, highlighted the importance of security in the industry and the adverse that may arise if security was compromised.

“A security incident at an airport, at a port, or on a passenger or cargo ship, could have a catastrophic impact on life and our industry,” Secretary Mumu said.

“The flow on effects to the economy and reputation would have the potential to be devastating, so collaboration through risk management can mitigate most security risks.”

“However, some security risks can be unpredictable, to name a few- terrorism, law and order issues, transnational crime and human and drug trafficking.”

Mumu added that it was vital the department is seen to be reviewing its plans as it and all government agencies have been called upon to create plans and align themselves to the National Security Strategic Action Plan 2014-2020.

Director for the Transport Security Policy Unit, Jerry Geno highlighted the transport industry as highly regulated and evolving industry of which security measure are also a part of.

“Department of Transport as the lead sector department- we need to be compliant with this national security policy to put in our own policies,” Geno said.

“As you and I are aware- the transport sector is a highly regulated industry and we need to create an environment which is safe and secure regarding all modes of transport like aviation, maritime, and road transport.”

“We also have to be compliant to international standards and protocols to create that safe and secure environment.”

He said they hoped to get the draft policy discussed in the meet and by January 2015 to hold another complementary meeting workshop for eventual endorsement by cabinet.

“We are looking by June-July next year we will seeks cabinet’s endorsement of this draft policy,” Geno said.

“Security standards are always evolving, and Papua New Guinea is not an island but is part of the global family and community- when new standards come about we need to also change to those changes.

“By the time the policy is completed we should be able to tell you the outcomes of the meetings and programs put in place.”

On the global issue of terrorism, Mr Geno, confirmed that it was capture in the policy and on the national front also in terms of counter terrorism.

“We actually capture the issue of terrorism in the policy and at this current time all stakeholders have put in place counter terrorism plans which the department was a major player towards that with the transport sector agencies,” he added.



“It is now before the PM’s (Prime Minister’s) department to coordinate stakeholder consultations to finalize that document, and I think the Department of Justice and Attorney General is also a party to put in a counter terrorism act- we hope to get it done as soon as possible.”