NAC challenging case for us: Davies

NAC board posing with Minister Davies (floral shirt).

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, September 18, 2016 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

AVIATION Minister Steven Davies has hopes for a stronger organisation that has challenged his ministry, following the appointment of a new board for the National Airports Corporation, along with a new Acting Managing Director Richard Yopo, who is temporarily replacing the former, Joseph Tupiri.

Minister Davies while making the announcement on Monday, said he was hopeful that the new board will be allowed the opportunity to assert itself to complement the good work that has been happening in the past, despite what he termed as “staggered leadership” taking place in the organisation.

“NAC has not had a clear run in terms of board presence. Just for the sake of making the point is NAC has not had a board that has continued for its full term,” Mr Davies said.

“That is because we have been experiencing court cases. One court case after another, since its inception, and this is the last board under this current government.”

“This time around this board has been appointed and with only 9 months or so in the terms of the current government and I hope that this board will make history in that it will run its full term.”

The new board consists of Chairman Reuben Aila, Deputy Chair and Tourism Promotion Authority CEO Jerry Agus, Michael Koisen, and Wako Napaso. Ex-officio members remain as Secretary for Transport Roy Mumu and Treasury Secretary Dairy Vele.

“The national government has seen the need of bringing Mr Michael Koisen, who represents the industry. I want to admit that a very good response has been received from the industry, where we have had responses and nominations of very credible people to represent that sector,” Davies said.

“We also have Wako Napaso who brings to this board a very significant contribution, especially from the most important sector which is the tourism sector.”

“Mr Agus is ex-officio as the CEO of TPA and Legislations requires that and Mr Aila represents the Chamber of Commerce,” Davies said.