PM commits K250,000 to village development association

Caption: PM officiating at the TADA Secretariat office.

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, October 11, 2015 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill committed K250,000 on Thursday to Tatana village on the outskirts of Port Moresby to kick start the village’s development authority called the Tatana-Araira Development Association (TADA) Incorporated.

The formation of TADA is an attempt by villagers to fully benefit from spinoffs of the new Motukea port.

Thursday’s event coincided with the opening of the TADA new secretariat building.

Mr O’Neill reiterated the government’s desire to ensure resource owners benefit fully as partners in development projects.

“I am glad here today that we are able to witness the structure (Secretariat building) that is going to start the process of negotiations to establish that partnership with government and PNG Ports and other businesses operating within the area,” the PM said.

“We have already started throughout the country to ensure that priority for landowners and their welfare is paramount. That is why we have been promoting similar structures right throughout the country.”

“Over the next few years you find that many of these landowner companies will be successful if they are managed well. The key is managing it well, funds will come but if we do not manage it well it will only disappear that will leave our people frustrated.”

He pointed out to the villagers that the association will look after their welfare and not a cashcow.

“It is not an association that will feed our people with money, but it is an association that will look after the welfare and make sure that our people have water, schools, healthcare, and making sure community services are available.”

“I will give K250,000 to our minister (local MP Michael Malabag) to deliver to you on our behalf of the government so that you can kick start this organization.”

Village councilor Tom Lancan assured the Prime Minister of their willingness to contribute to national development and utilize benefits for a viable socio-economic prosperity.

“We feel comfort and assure you that instead of protesting and road blocks and destruction of public and private property, Tatana-Araira leaders and community can be trusted to live peacefully for all common good,” Lancan said.

TADA and Acting Motu-Koita Assmebly Chairman, Opao Udia made mention of the secretariat’s uniqueness- adding that none exists anywhere among the existing Motu-Koita villages.

“TADA’s vision for development is to upgrade the quality of life. Improving education and our customary lands will be freed up for effective development,” Udia said.

“We remember what was articulated by you, our MP, and Minister Micah, that our community is recognized as a partner.”

“We look forward to receiving your assurance and commitment of Ports PNG to effect this partnership.”