Villagers not seeing promised benefits from Ramu mine

Source: PNG Loop

Usino/Bundi MP Anthony Yagama and Madang acting Provincial Police Commander Ben Neneo met with the Bundi people on Sunday to hear their side of the story of the million kina damages caused by some of them last week.

Bundi villagers expressed their concerns that the developer, Ramu Nickel, and the Government of PNG had not implemented much of what had been agreed upon in the MOA.

They felt the developer had not given priority to them in terms of employment and business opportunities, infrastructure developments, education and training.

Tension has been building up over the years and when 30 villagers were rejected from being employed last week, angry villagers ran into the site, damaging properties

The mine was closed for a short time but has since restarted mining operations.

Mr Yagama assured the gathering that he will take their concerns to the Parliament even if it means a review has to be done again on the MOA.

In the meantime, five of the suspects who allegedly damaged properties have been arrested, charged and are on bail awaiting court.