The Government of Papua New Guinea has nationalised the Ok Tedi mine and its owner, the PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP).
The Catholic Bishops of Papua New Guinea have expressed disappointment with what the Government has done because it could result in the cancellation of PNG Sustainable Development Program.
In their statement the Bishops say the PNG Sustainable Development Program which has supported hundreds of projects nationwide, partnering with organisations and communities to bring assistance where it is most needed, could now come to an end.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has sacked Sir Mekere Morauta as chairman of Ok Tedi Mining Limited and installed four new directors on the board, after passing legislation transferring all the shares in the Ok Tedi mine to the state.
Parliament also passed legislation making the former owner, BHP Billiton, liable for environmental damage caused by the Ok Tedi mine. O’Neill has also instigated an inquiry into the way in which the SDP was established.
Source