News 12.2010
Last but not least!
31.12.2010
Source: ESBC Research
ASX in 2010
A Blind Tiger without Teeth and Claws
Bougainville Copper's (BOC) price history of 2010's last day trading is the best example ever that the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is neither able nor willing to assure serious behavior of market participants. In the past, the ESBC has repeatedly informed the Sydney market surveillance about strange market movements in Bougainville Copper shares. Until now, without any result as the today's trades show. The ESBC consider the today's course of sales for BOC as a shining example for the incompetence and incapability of the ASX staff to assume international standards. "Under these conditions" the President of ESBC, Mr. Axel G. Sturm, said today in Bangkok that "he would appreciate if the ASX will be taken over by the Singapore Stock Exchange next year for a better, a more efficient and a more transparent business". Mr. Sturm presumes: "Obviously the ASX is a blind tiger without teeth and claws!"
REMARK:
Trade hours are one hour delayed as ASX data provider Netquote (an ASX authorized paying data service) was not able to the adjust its market data to Australian winter time until now!
Course of Sales for BOC
as at 12/31/2010 2:21:51 PM
Time Quantity Price Reference
09:00:05 315 1.700 0
09:00:05 3 1.700 0
09:00:05 7 1.700 0
09:00:05 1,082 1.700 0
09:00:05 3,918 1.700 0
09:00:05 9,732 1.700 0
09:00:05 11,000 1.700 0
09:00:05 3,268 1.700 0
09:00:05 1,000 1.700 0
09:00:05 732 1.700 0
09:00:05 12,250 1.700 0
09:00:05 2,986 1.700 0
09:00:05 764 1.700 0
09:00:05 36 1.700 0
09:00:18 74,964 1.700 0
09:00:18 50 1.700 0
09:01:49 621 1.695 0
09:01:49 29 1.695 0
09:02:53 550 1.695 0
09:03:55 1,121 1.695 0
09:03:55 62 1.695 0
09:03:55 1,259 1.695 0
09:03:55 508 1.700 0
09:04:02 543 1.695 0
09:04:02 406 1.695 0
09:04:02 1 1.695 0
09:04:58 597 1.695 0
09:04:58 94 1.695 0
09:04:58 258 1.695 0
09:06:10 1 1.700 0
09:06:11 605 1.695 0
09:06:11 994 1.695 0
09:06:57 1 1.700 0
09:06:58 400 1.695 0
09:08:17 205 1.695 0
09:08:17 295 1.700 0
09:08:33 500 1.695 0
09:09:24 9 1.690 0
09:09:42 68 1.695 0
09:09:42 101 1.695 0
09:09:42 230 1.695 0
09:10:48 1 1.700 0
09:10:49 597 1.695 0
09:10:49 1,052 1.695 0
09:11:50 1 1.700 0
09:12:56 350 1.695 0
09:13:56 247 1.695 0
09:13:56 503 1.695 0
09:14:17 35 1.690 0
09:14:44 300 1.695 0
09:15:58 650 1.695 0
09:16:55 300 1.695 0
09:18:10 650 1.695 0
09:19:14 497 1.695 0
09:19:14 153 1.695 0
09:19:17 40 1.690 0
09:20:11 334 1.695 0
09:20:11 4 1.695 0
09:20:11 12 1.695 0
09:20:59 88 1.695 0
09:20:59 396 1.695 0
09:22:06 166 1.700 0
09:22:07 328 1.695 0
09:23:19 672 1.700 0
09:24:23 309 1.695 0
09:24:23 21 1.695 0
09:25:33 220 1.700 0
09:25:34 304 1.695 0
09:26:30 646 1.700 0
09:27:31 286 1.695 0
09:28:24 14 1.700 0
09:29:18 286 1.695 0
09:29:18 47 1.695 0
09:30:10 517 1.700 0
09:31:17 270 1.695 0
09:32:07 580 1.700 0
09:32:09 254 1.695 0
09:33:04 596 1.700 0
09:34:19 237 1.695 0
09:34:20 13 1.695 0
09:34:24 1,030 1.690 0
09:34:24 2,070 1.690 0
09:35:30 24 1.695 0
09:35:30 256 1.695 0
09:35:30 219 1.695 0
09:36:34 1 1.700 0
09:37:23 368 1.695 0
09:38:21 432 1.700 0
09:39:09 355 1.695 0
09:39:16 31 1.695 0
09:40:10 464 1.700 0
09:41:22 346 1.695 0
09:41:59 3,000 1.700 0
09:42:14 504 1.700 0
09:43:01 233 1.695 0
09:44:06 567 1.700 0
09:44:07 215 1.695 0
09:44:17 20 1.695 0
09:45:11 665 1.700 0
09:46:24 192 1.695 0
09:46:43 305 1.700 0
09:47:22 58 1.700 0
09:48:08 137 1.695 0
09:49:15 913 1.700 0
09:49:16 153 1.695 0
09:49:17 27 1.695 0
09:50:08 270 1.700 0
09:51:06 142 1.695 0
09:51:51 358 1.700 0
09:51:52 129 1.695 0
09:53:02 371 1.700 0
09:53:59 426 1.695 0
09:53:59 73 1.695 0
09:54:14 1 1.695 0
09:54:15 37 1.695 0
09:54:15 413 1.695 0
09:55:40 39 1.695 0
09:55:40 1 1.695 0
09:55:40 209 1.695 0
09:56:27 1 1.700 0
09:57:40 400 1.695 0
09:58:34 28 1.695 0
09:58:34 12,859 1.700 0
09:58:34 160 1.700 0
09:58:34 16 1.700 0
09:58:34 10,000 1.700 0
09:58:34 72 1.700 0
09:58:47 6,865 1.700 0
09:58:55 461 1.695 0
09:58:55 38 1.695 0
09:59:06 25,135 1.700 0
09:59:24 4,865 1.700 0
09:59:32 24,135 1.700 0
10:04:14 1 1.725 0
10:04:15 5,000 1.700 0
10:07:15 406 1.715 0
10:07:15 2,143 1.715 0
10:08:11 1 1.720 0
10:09:09 349 1.705 0
10:09:09 1,200 1.705 0
10:09:18 1 1.705 0
10:09:18 865 1.700 0
10:09:18 488 1.700 0
10:09:19 511 1.695 0
10:10:16 27 1.695 0
10:10:16 222 1.695 0
10:10:16 25,401 1.700 0
10:11:28 1 1.700 0
10:11:40 1,244 1.700 0
10:11:40 46 1.700 0
10:11:40 46 1.700 0
10:13:37 1,050 1.710 0
10:13:51 12,264 1.700 0
10:13:51 750 1.700 0
10:14:49 250 1.695 0
10:15:43 152 1.695 0
10:15:43 4 1.695 0
10:15:43 14,733 1.700 0
10:16:58 250 1.700 0
10:18:11 650 1.700 0
10:19:08 500 1.700 0
10:20:04 200 1.700 0
10:21:19 500 1.700 0
10:22:31 500 1.700 0
10:23:36 200 1.700 0
10:24:49 450 1.700 0
10:25:47 450 1.700 0
10:26:46 250 1.700 0
10:27:52 500 1.700 0
10:29:02 200 1.700 0
10:29:56 450 1.700 0
10:30:58 250 1.700 0
10:31:54 500 1.700 0
10:33:09 200 1.700 0
10:34:20 450 1.700 0
10:35:22 450 1.700 0
10:36:34 303 1.700 0
10:36:34 21 1.700 0
10:36:34 37 1.700 0
10:36:34 89 1.700 0
10:37:42 200 1.700 0
10:38:36 450 1.700 0
10:39:41 200 1.700 0
10:40:42 400 1.700 0
10:41:27 350 1.700 0
10:42:32 200 1.700 0
10:43:45 200 1.700 0
10:44:43 350 1.700 0
10:45:45 350 1.700 0
10:46:41 150 1.700 0
10:47:43 250 1.700 0
10:48:43 150 1.700 0
10:49:42 250 1.700 0
10:50:52 150 1.700 0
10:52:03 300 1.700 0
10:53:17 250 1.700 0
10:54:22 22 1.695 0
10:54:25 100 1.700 0
10:55:22 250 1.700 0
10:56:14 200 1.700 0
10:57:06 100 1.700 0
10:57:54 150 1.700 0
10:58:45 100 1.700 0
10:59:17 7 1.695 0
10:59:54 250 1.700 0
11:00:52 100 1.700 0
11:01:54 250 1.700 0
11:02:41 150 1.700 0
11:03:55 250 1.700 0
11:04:22 33 1.695 0
11:04:47 50 1.700 0
11:05:51 200 1.700 0
11:06:51 100 1.700 0
11:07:50 200 1.700 0
11:09:00 100 1.700 0
11:09:16 46 1.695 0
11:10:01 200 1.700 0
11:11:10 200 1.700 0
11:11:58 100 1.700 0
11:13:05 100 1.700 0
11:13:56 200 1.700 0
11:14:21 29 1.695 0
11:15:07 100 1.700 0
11:15:59 200 1.700 0
11:16:47 200 1.700 0
11:17:33 6,000 1.700 0
11:17:54 100 1.700 0
11:19:02 100 1.700 0
11:19:23 7 1.695 0
11:19:59 250 1.700 0
11:21:08 200 1.700 0
11:22:12 100 1.700 0
11:23:25 200 1.700 0
11:24:24 5 1.695 0
11:24:30 200 1.700 0
11:25:35 100 1.700 0
11:26:35 200 1.700 0
11:27:21 100 1.700 0
11:28:28 150 1.700 0
11:29:19 150 1.700 0
11:29:21 18 1.695 0
11:30:16 200 1.700 0
11:31:12 100 1.700 0
11:32:14 100 1.700 0
11:33:04 250 1.700 0
11:33:55 100 1.700 0
11:34:23 9 1.695 0
11:35:10 100 1.700 0
11:35:59 250 1.700 0
11:36:57 300 1.700 0
11:37:46 150 1.700 0
11:39:00 100 1.700 0
11:39:18 12 1.695 0
11:40:09 300 1.700 0
11:41:06 250 1.700 0
11:42:02 200 1.700 0
11:43:04 350 1.700 0
11:44:08 150 1.700 0
11:44:19 32 1.695 0
11:45:11 350 1.700 0
11:45:57 200 1.700 0
11:47:04 200 1.700 0
11:47:55 361 1.700 0
11:47:55 89 1.700 0
11:49:10 5 1.700 0
11:49:10 8 1.700 0
11:49:10 187 1.700 0
11:50:19 450 1.700 0
11:51:33 450 1.700 0
11:52:34 550 1.700 0
11:53:20 250 1.700 0
11:53:36 5,813 1.700 0
11:53:36 10,000 1.700 0
11:53:36 33 1.700 0
11:54:18 44,154 1.700 0
11:54:29 450 1.700 0
11:55:26 300 1.700 0
11:56:38 550 1.700 0
11:57:33 250 1.700 0
11:58:45 500 1.700 0
11:59:33 500 1.700 0
12:00:47 250 1.700 0
12:01:59 550 1.700 0
12:02:57 650 1.700 0
12:03:28 6,000 1.700 0
12:03:46 300 1.700 0
12:05:01 250 1.700 0
12:05:49 550 1.700 0
12:06:40 300 1.700 0
12:07:43 550 1.700 0
12:08:42 250 1.700 0
12:09:38 600 1.700 0
12:10:44 300 1.700 0
12:11:58 650 1.700 0
12:13:10 250 1.700 0
12:14:04 550 1.700 0
12:14:52 550 1.700 0
12:15:47 300 1.700 0
12:16:42 300 1.700 0
12:17:54 550 1.700 0
12:18:52 300 1.700 0
12:19:38 600 1.700 0
12:20:49 250 1.700 0
12:21:38 650 1.700 0
12:22:45 300 1.700 0
12:23:39 600 1.700 0
12:24:27 300 1.700 0
12:25:22 300 1.700 0
12:26:21 600 1.700 0
12:27:20 300 1.700 0
12:28:16 650 1.700 0
12:29:22 250 1.700 0
12:30:36 600 1.700 0
12:31:48 300 1.700 0
12:32:42 600 1.700 0
12:33:44 650 1.700 0
12:34:16 5 1.695 0
12:34:31 300 1.700 0
12:35:42 300 1.700 0
12:36:47 600 1.700 0
12:37:53 650 1.700 0
12:38:50 300 1.700 0
12:39:21 5 1.695 0
12:40:03 196 1.700 0
12:40:03 7 1.700 0
12:40:03 19 1.700 0
12:40:03 428 1.700 0
12:40:55 650 1.700 0
12:42:10 350 1.700 0
12:43:25 650 1.700 0
12:44:14 600 1.700 0
12:44:25 6 1.695 0
12:45:28 350 1.700 0
12:46:36 750 1.700 0
12:47:35 350 1.700 0
12:48:41 750 1.700 0
12:49:21 7 1.695 0
12:49:51 800 1.700 0
12:51:05 400 1.700 0
12:52:17 1,950 1.700 0
12:53:12 1,972 1.700 0
12:53:12 28 1.700 0
12:54:07 58 1.700 0
12:54:07 942 1.700 0
12:54:25 24 1.695 0
12:55:13 1,950 1.700 0
12:56:19 1,050 1.700 0
12:56:33 5,653 1.700 0
12:57:20 2,050 1.700 0
12:57:21 12 1.695 0
12:58:00 2,138 1.700 0
12:58:01 1,217 1.700 0
12:58:01 47 1.700 0
12:58:09 2,029 1.700 0
13:10:02 45 1.690 0
31.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Bougainville police cops underway
By Fabian Gatana
Police New Year operations on Bougainville had begun with police getting tough on un-roadworthy vehicles and PMV drivers.
This is proving successful so far, says a police report. ABG acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Huitona Tohua said there have not been any major incidents during their Christmas operations and they are hoping the New Year operations end on on the same note.
Police will set up road blocks everywhere in Buka, Tinputz, Wakunai, Arawa and Buin and carry out major awareness programs on road safety throughout the province.
They will also carry out routine patrols to rural villages, while foot patrols will patrol the streets in and around Buka and Kokopau. For Arawa, police patrols will cover Panguna and Koromira while a team will be patrolling the Nagovis–Tonu highway down to Buin. In Buin, police boss Paul Kamuai will lead his team on patrol duty while another small group will be on foot patrol duties.
There will be a total liquor ban in Arawa and in Buin but in Buka people have been told not to drink in public places.
31.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Where it happens!
Only in Bougainville! Here’s a picture of youths from low lying islands of Saposa and Sorom. Some from Torokina. They were seen rushing to Buka yesterday to sell these copra bags so they can have money to celebrate with in the New Year. One tonne copra costs K1500 and a single bag is at least K200 depending on the weight. Here the youths walked off with more than K3000 for their New Year celebrations!
30.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
NAS
By Aloysius Laukai
NAS made two flights into Buin today to bring in medicine.
Tomorrow it will bring freezer goods for Buin Businessmen.
Charter to Buin is K4,500 one way and Passenger fare if K600 per person.
30.12.2010
Source: ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
Higher gold price may boost production
With the price of gold in excess of $1,400 an ounce, driven by a weak US dollar and unrelenting demand from China and India, and no new major gold deposits seemingly available, analysts are predicting that miners with marginal deposits may re-start production.
On the back of speculation that Bougainville Copper may re-open its copper and gold production, Pricewaterhouse Cooper's mining leader Tim Goldsmith said that it would be interesting to see if the higher prices made the miners move faster.
Miners in the north of WA had found some promising results, including Beadell Resources's Tropicana East Project 350km north-east of Kalgoorlie, and Focus Minerals Ltd planning longer-term projects in Coolgardie.
Worldwide gold supply remains at about 2,500 tonnes a year, despite a tripling of the gold price since 2002.
Australian gold production has risen 22 per cent in the year to November 2010.
Recycled gold now makes up 42 per cent of the gold supply.
30.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
IMAKA COMMITMENT
By Aloysius Laukai
The National Aviation Services intends to fully service all Bougainville airstrips in the New Year according to its General Manager, JOHN IMAKA.
MR. IMAKA told New Dawn FM that the National Aviation services is setting up on Bougainville and is here to stay.
He said that they would be getting other planes to come and support the plane that is already in Buka.
MR. IMAKA said that they will be flying to Buin, Nissan, Torokina and Aropa (near Arawa) from their base in Buka.
The aircraft would also carry out emergency Search and Rescue flights and other medivac charters.
Persons who wish to make bookings can call in at their Buka Office situated at the Buka airport.
30.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
State reminded of forgotten clause
By PETERSON TSERAHA
A SELF-styled intelligent political analyst on Bougainville has once again reminded the State and the people of Bougainville about a forgotten and very important clause in the “Bougainville Copper Act”.
Clarence Kosun (Cozxunie) Managing director of Kosun Creation Ltd has taken this extract from the Bougainville Copper Act which a lot of people had forgotten.
“The Bougainville Copper Act” section 15 over burden, tailings and safety:
Clause (d) Notwithstanding that the same may have been disposed of in an area and in a manner approved as herein before provided in this clause the company shall make compensation for any loss suffered by any indigenous or other inhabitant of the said Bougainville Island or other islands adjacent thereto resulting from any damage done (wether to land, anything on land, water or otherwise)or any other interference with any right to use land or water caused by the disposal by the company of any over burden removed in the course of, or tailings produced as a result of, its operations under this agreement, but nothing in this paragraph shall oblige the company to make any compensation to the administration or any governmental authority. Such compensation shall be provided either in cash or by way of provision on reasonable terms and conditions of land or other facilities or benefits or partly in one form and partly in another and in default of agreement thereon between the company and other person seeking such compensation shall upon application by such person be determined in accordance, with procedures provided for in part VII of the mining ordinance, such person or (as the case may be) the company having from such determination the rights of appeal set out in the Part VII.
“Just think for a second,” Mr Kosun said. “Had this law been enforced and the environmental damage to the Jaba valley been curtailed and compensated, it is most probable that Francis Ona would have never succeeded in raising the revolution,” he said. “Just think of the lives saved and the future lost because the law was not enforced,” Mr Kosun said.
The Bougainville Copper Act was not even a good law but if it had been enforced, things would be very different today, he said.
“Laws are there for a reason. They are there to provide a safe and fair environment and to make commerce possible.
“The State has terribly failed to comply and abide by this particular clause since the mining days up until now, and the landowners negotiating with the government have to seriously take this into consideration, to avoid being deprived again from their rights,” said Mr Kosun.
29.12.2010
Source: ESBC Research / ASX
BOC rallyes at the End of 2010
Bougainville Copper shares (BOC) soared 8.71 percent in Sydney today.
Last price was AU$ 1.685 (+ AU$ 0.135) at 4:10 local time.
More than 153,000 shares were exchanged.
AU$ 1.68 = EUR 1,29
29.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Rising prices boost Bougainville mine hopes
By Rowan Callick
Peter Taylor, who has been chairman of Bougainville Copper (BCL) since 2003 and managing director since 2000 and who worked on Bougainville as company secretary from 1985 to 1987, is a mining industry veteran whose priorities are all about people.
He says his focus is not on the hardware or the engineering or on raising the $3 billion that the reopening is expected to cost. He says: “We must ensure the landowners retain number one importance. And the Bougainville government’s support is also critical. All the signs are that the leaders on Bougainville want the mine open, and as soon as possible, rather than just some day. And the national government agrees.”
Bougainville’s new President, John Momis, elected for five years in June, is a former Catholic priest and former deputy prime minister.
While campaigning for the PNG election in 1987, he famously presented a letter to the then BCL managing director, Paul Quodling that demanded the company give 3 per cent of its gross income to the Bougainville provincial government. The request received wide support on Bougainville, but Quodling said it was impossible to meet, adding to tensions that soon exploded on the ground.
During the civil war, a leading rebel attempted to shoot Momis at close range from behind, but the pistol jammed. Momis now says: “We are keen to reopen the Panguna mine, and we are holding talks with the landowners. Of course, Bougainville needs the mine to be reopened under a new regime. A
ll parties should learn lessons from the crisis, and collaborate to build a better future.”
Momis recently led a group of 34 - including former combatants -- to China, where he recently served as PNG ambassador. China is likely to play a role in the rebuilt mine as leading customer, equity partner, or both.
Bougainville is an autonomous region within PNG, and under a peace accord with PNG, it has the right to administer its own mining and land laws. The World Bank has been funding a program to help Bougainville define its own mining regime.
Taylor hopes that this will complement the PNG mining legislation, which has helped facilitate a boom in foreign investment there.
Besides the $16.5bn ExxonMobil LNG project, there are promising gas finds in Western Province, and an onshore project in Gulf Province led by InterOil. The Frieda River copper-gold project led by Xstrata is due to move soon to full feasibility mode, and the Wafi project -- also copper-gold -- is not far behind. These are each likely to become $4bn-$5bn ventures.
The latter is owned by Newcrest and Harmony, which are commissioning the Hidden Valley gold-silver project.
Marengo Mining is proceeding with a feasibility study at Yandera, a copper-gold deposit not far from the $1.4bn Ramu Nickel project being developed by China’s Metallurgical Construction Corp.
Since BCL suspended the mine, many groups have tried to control the promising mining zone.
“The Bougainvilleans have seen them come to the island, and haven’t liked them,” Taylor says.
So they have come back to BCL -- the devil they know -- despite all their past disagreements. The rogues have done BCL and its ultimate parent, Rio Tinto, a favour.
The 10-year civil war on Bougainville had many complex causes, and was a nightmare for many Rio executives.
The conflict led to big changes in how miners relate to host communities worldwide. So the reopening of the Bougainville mine would be redemptive for many groups, including Rio. There is no timetable. Once an agreement is reached with the landowners, a feasibility study is approved and finance is in place, it will take a further two to three years to get mining under way again. The lengthiest part of that process would be the lead-time needed to order the huge trucks and other equipment to operate the mine.
Taylor says BCL will facilitate landowners’ meetings and help ensure the reconciliation process goes ahead, “but we’re mindful that we should not be seen to influence the proceedings.
“Everything needs to be worked out as the agreement is renegotiated -- including environmental issues such as tailings disposal, revenue sharing, ownership. And the landowners need to be resourced to participate effectively.”
This is in marked contrast with the first incarnation of the mine, when the company was not permitted by the Australian government to negotiate directly with landowners.
“The situation is quite the reverse this time,” Taylor says. “The landowners are setting the agenda, although everyone will put their wish-lists on the table.”
He wants to see the landowners obtain equity in the project because it makes them “part of your business” and gives them a share of the income stream.
“The balance needs to change in favour of those who are giving up the most, and they are the landowners. To make the project successful and saleable, they have to be part of the company.”
Raising the $3bn will be a relatively minor challenge.
Three big selling points of the project are that it already has a port at Loloho, an access road winding up 30km of rugged terrain, and has pre-stripped ore ready to extract, with 200 million tonnes available immediately.
“They give us a big leg-up,” Taylor says.
Technology has improved since the mine was suspended, he says, and tailings can be safely stored even in an earthquake-prone area. “The landowners have to say which method they prefer,” Taylor says. Previously, they were disposed of in the Jaba River, a cause of controversy.
29.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Miners hope to restart Bougainville gold and copper mine
By Rowan Callick
TALKS are under way on reopening one of the world’s biggest copper and gold mines, on Australia’s doorstep - the Bougainville mine that last produced ore 22 years ago and was widely believed to have closed forever.
The seemingly unstoppable China-driven commodities boom has pushed up prices, so the reserves in the Bougainville pit are now worth about $50 billion. Its port, its access road up 30km of rugged terrain and its 200 million tonnes of pre-stripped ore are ready and waiting.
Crucially, leaders on Bougainville -- including former combatants and elected politicians -- are all calling for the mine to reopen, although they have yet to agree on the conditions they require.
“The key to the door,” Bougainville Copper chairman and managing director Peter Taylor said, “is the landowners.” Nothing could happen “until they say to BCL, as a united group, ‘We want the mine and we want you to run it’ “. “Then I’ll focus on the process that would follow.” Veteran politician and former Catholic priest John Momis, the recently elected President of Bougainville -- an autonomous region of Papua New Guinea -- said: “We are keen to reopen the mine and we are holding talks with the landowners.” BCL’s share price has doubled since August and trebled since May, as canny investors have watched vital and promising talks begin.
Bougainville Copper, which is 53.58 per cent-owned by Rio, 19.06 per cent by the Papua New Guinea government and 27.36 per cent by other shareholders, estimates it will cost about $3bn to reopen the mine, whose production was suspended on May 15, 1989.
The trucks and the electricity pylons may have been blown up, rusted or cannibalized, but the resources in the mine have not been damaged or diminished over the past 21 years. It contains 3.5 million tonnes of copper, today worth about $32.4bn, and 12.7 million ounces of gold, worth today about $17.8bn.
There are more reserves beyond the pit but still in the mine lease area.
The mine as presently configured is capable of producing up to 170,000 tonnes of copper and 500,000 ounces of gold annually.
The copper price has quadrupled since the mine closed, the gold price seven times. The values of the two metals have usually run counter-cyclically, but this year they have peaked together. But the cost of capital is also high, and is likely to come at a premium given the tumultuous history of the mine.
Former Australian prime minister Bob Hawke, who has close Chinese commercial connections, in late November visited Port Moresby, where he talked with Prime Minister Michael Somare and Mr Momis.
The discussions included plans to reopen the Bougainville mine. After leading a Bougainville delegation of 34 on a visit to China, where he was once the PNG ambassador, Mr Momis said: “The Chinese have expressed an interest in the mine, but we are keeping all our options open.”
The overwhelming focus of 40 years ago on the mine as a national economy maker or breaker is no longer present.
It would remain the crucial income earner for Bougainville itself, but for PNG the spotlight has shifted to the $16.5bn ExxonMobil-led venture piping gas from the Southern Highlands to Port Moresby, where it will be liquefied for export to Asia. This is by far the biggest project ever conceived in the Pacific islands.
28.12.2010
Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC Rurual News)
Bougainville Copper may reopen
Booming world commodity prices may see the reopening of one of the world's largest copper and gold mines.
Bougainville Copper's massive pit on the island closed 22 years ago, but current prices mean that its reserves are now worth around $50 billion.
But the mining company must first get the approval of landowners before works could go ahead - at a cost of around $3 billion to open the mine.
"The key to the door," Bougainville Copper chairman and managing director Peter Taylor said, "is the landowners."
Nothing could happen "until they say to BCL, as a united group, 'We want the mine and we want you to run it'."
Former Australian prime minister Bob Hawke contacted PNG Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare and Bougainville President John Momis in Port Moresby in November.
Mr Hawke's commercial connections in China could be crucial in seeing the mine reopened.
World copper prices has increased fourfold since the mine closed, and the gold price seven times.
28.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Flights to Buin commence
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism Student
National Aviation Services will begin its flights to Buin tomorrow.
General Manager John Imaka says the flight tomorrow will officially commence the company’s operations in the region.
He says the maiden flight was made during the opening of the 3rd ABG games in which they flew with ABG President John Momis to Buin to open the games.
Mr Imaka told New Dawn FM that they weren’t able to fly after the maiden flight as fuel drums from Rabaul did not yet arrive.
He says however the fuel drums were offloaded from Makaia yesterday and the flight tomorrow will commence as scheduled.
The company is working on bringing one more of its planes in from Vanimo and they are aiming at restoring the provision of air services back into Bougainville.
Pilots of National Aviation Services pose for this AL Picture: Captain John Imaka (Left) and Captain Marcellin Ampa'oi (Right)
28.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Gernic Hire donates
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
One of the few Hire Car Companies in the region has donated four wheel chairs and K500 cheque to a family living with disability.
Gernic Car Hire took the initiative to assist the disable at this time of Christmas.
Businessman Gerard Habitein and his family handed the wheel chairs and the cheque to the disable on Saturday, Christmas day.
The three brothers and their sister are from Hangan village. They have lived with disability since their teenage.
Their mother Maria Hamos received the donations with tears of joy and she was lost for words in thanking Mr Habitein and his family.
The wheel chairs were bought from Callan Services at a cost of K1500.
Business woman Nicole Habitein says Callan Services offered the wheel chairs for free, however, the company gave K1000.
Mrs Habitein says K500 was paid as freight charge for the wheel chairs which were shipped to Buka.
She says the company’s aim is to reach out to the needy as Christmas is a time of sharing and giving.
28.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Tohua reviews year operation
By Veronica Hannette
Bougainville Police Service this year has done a lot of awarenes throughout the region on Law & Order.
Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Huitona Tohua says Bougainville police have faced a lot of challenges with law breakers but had taken responsibility on dealing with the matters.
Acting ACP adds that laws are made for everyone and that we should abide to any laws made, to guide us.
Though there were some accidents and Law & Order problems that happened, still Bougainville police were able to address the matters.
Mr. Tohua says with a lot of awareness were given through out the year resulting in a lot of improvements with Law & Order in the region.
He is appealing to the public to work together and make New Year Celebrations trouble free.
28.12.2010
Source: The Australian
Rising prices boost Bougainville mine hopes
by Rowan Callick, Asia-Pacific editor
Peter Taylor, who has been chairman of Bougainville Copper (BCL) since 2003 and managing director since 2000 and who worked on Bougainville as company secretary from 1985 to 1987, is a mining industry veteran whose priorities are all about people.
He says his focus is not on the hardware or the engineering or on raising the $3 billion that the reopening is expected to cost.
He says: "We must ensure the landowners retain number one importance. And the Bougainville government's support is also critical. All the signs are that the leaders on Bougainville want the mine open, and as soon as possible, rather than just some day. And the national government agrees."
Bougainville's new President, John Momis, elected for five years in June, is a former Catholic priest and former deputy prime minister.
While campaigning for the PNG election in 1987, he famously presented a letter to the then BCL managing director, Paul Quodling, that demanded the company give 3 per cent of its gross income to the Bougainville provincial government.
The request received wide support on Bougainville, but Quodling said it was impossible to meet, adding to tensions that soon exploded on the ground.
During the civil war, a leading rebel attempted to shoot Momis at close range from behind, but the pistol jammed.
Momis now says: "We are keen to reopen the Panguna mine, and we are holding talks with the landowners. Of course, Bougainville needs the mine to be reopened under a new regime. All parties should learn lessons from the crisis, and collaborate to build a better future."
Momis recently led a group of 34 -- including former combatants -- to China, where he recently served as PNG ambassador. China is likely to play a role in the rebuilt mine as leading customer, equity partner, or both.
Bougainville is an autonomous region within PNG, and under a peace accord with PNG, it has the right to administer its own mining and land laws. The World Bank has been funding a program to help Bougainville define its own mining regime.
Taylor hopes that this will complement the PNG mining legislation, which has helped facilitate a boom in foreign investment there.
Besides the $16.5bn ExxonMobil LNG project, there are promising gas finds in Western Province, and an onshore project in Gulf Province led by InterOil. The Frieda River copper-gold project led by Xstrata is due to move soon to full feasibility mode, and the Wafi project -- also copper-gold -- is not far behind. These are each likely to become $4bn-$5bn ventures.
The latter is owned by Newcrest and Harmony, which are commissioning the Hidden Valley gold-silver project.
Marengo Mining is proceeding with a feasibility study at Yandera, a copper-gold deposit not far from the $1.4bn Ramu Nickel project being developed by China's Metallurgical Construction Corp.
Since BCL suspended the mine, many groups have tried to control the promising mining zone.
"The Bougainvilleans have seen them come to the island, and haven't liked them," Taylor says.
So they have come back to BCL -- the devil they know -- despite all their past disagreements. The rogues have done BCL and its ultimate parent, Rio Tinto, a favour.
The 10-year civil war on Bougainville had many complex causes, and was a nightmare for many Rio executives.
The conflict led to big changes in how miners relate to host communities worldwide. So the reopening of the Bougainville mine would be redemptive for many groups, including Rio.
There is no timetable. Once an agreement is reached with the landowners, a feasibility study is approved and finance is in place, it will take a further two to three years to get mining under way again. The lengthiest part of that process would be the lead-time needed to order the huge trucks and other equipment to operate the mine.
Taylor says BCL will facilitate landowners' meetings and help ensure the reconciliation process goes ahead, "but we're mindful that we should not be seen to influence the proceedings.
"Everything needs to be worked out as the agreement is renegotiated -- including environmental issues such as tailings disposal, revenue sharing, ownership. And the landowners need to be resourced to participate effectively."
This is in marked contrast with the first incarnation of the mine, when the company was not permitted by the Australian government to negotiate directly with landowners.
"The situation is quite the reverse this time," Taylor says. "The landowners are setting the agenda, although everyone will put their wish-lists on the table."
He wants to see the landowners obtain equity in the project because it makes them "part of your business" and gives them a share of the income stream.
"The balance needs to change in favour of those who are giving up the most, and they are the landowners. To make the project successful and saleable, they have to be part of the company."
Raising the $3bn will be a relatively minor challenge.
Three big selling points of the project are that it already has a port at Loloho, an access road winding up 30km of rugged terrain, and has pre-stripped ore ready to extract, with 200 million tonnes available immediately.
"They give us a big leg-up," Taylor says.
Technology has improved since the mine was suspended, he says, and tailings can be safely stored even in an earthquake-prone area. "The landowners have to say which method they prefer," Taylor says. Previously, they were disposed of in the Jaba River, a cause of controversy.
They will also discuss whether workers fly in and fly out to the island or are based there, as they were before in the largely destroyed town of Arawa. Taylor says that the more local workers can be recruited, the better. "We have received numerous inquiries from ex-employees asking when we are re-opening."
The Ok Tedi mine would be an obvious source of skilled staff as it starts to scale down as the resource declines.
The other big factor exciting interest in the reopening of the Panguna pit is the likelihood that it will lead to the end of the moratorium on exploration that began in 1971.
Seven exploration licences covering 20 per cent of the island are held by BCL, and the potential to find new orebodies near the existing pit are considerable.
No one else holds any other exploration permits, even though a German-funded aeromagnetic survey 25 years ago revealed many highly prospective zones.
Through the past 21 years, the principal owner, Rio Tinto, did not close down BCL -- it has remained listed, playing a low-key role, waiting for the climate to change.
Its share price has soared as the likelihood of a reopening dawned on investors. They were rallied by Axel Sturm, the energetic German president of the European shareholders of Bougainville Copper. The company has even made a profit most years, from placing its remaining cash in Australian listed investment companies.
Taylor says that since the mine closed, the BCL Foundation has continued to fund 100 scholarships a year.
In a US court case, Bougainvilleans have claimed damages from Rio over the operation of the mine. This has become a test case for the extent of American jurisdiction, but no decision is likely until after the mine has reopened.
Former Bougainville Revolutionary Army "general" Ishmael Toroama insists that all the demands made by Bougainvilleans during the fighting must be met: "Panguna -- after the war -- now belongs to all Bougainvilleans," he says, insisting that the original claims for environmental compensation remain extant.
But the recently elected Bougainville government, and the Panguna Land Owners Association, have begun intense discussions.
No one is publicly discussing timetables yet. But in the minds of most of the stakeholders, the countdown has already begun.
28.12.2010
Source: The Australian
Miners hope to restart Bougainville gold and copper mine
by Rowan Callick
TALKS are under way on reopening one of the world's biggest copper and gold mines, on Australia's doorstep -- the Bougainville mine that last produced ore 22 years ago and was widely believed to have closed forever.
The seemingly unstoppable China-driven commodities boom has pushed up prices, so the reserves in the Bougainville pit are now worth about $50 billion.
Its port, its access road up 30km of rugged terrain and its 200 million tonnes of pre-stripped ore are ready and waiting.
Crucially, leaders on Bougainville -- including former combatants and elected politicians -- are all calling for the mine to reopen, although they have yet to agree on the conditions they require.
"The key to the door," Bougainville Copper chairman and managing director Peter Taylor said, "is the landowners."
Nothing could happen "until they say to BCL, as a united group, 'We want the mine and we want you to run it' ".
"Then I'll focus on the process that would follow."
Veteran politician and former Catholic priest John Momis, the recently elected President of Bougainville -- an autonomous region of Papua New Guinea -- said: "We are keen to reopen the mine and we are holding talks with the landowners."
BCL's share price has doubled since August and trebled since May, as canny investors have watched vital and promising talks begin.
Bougainville Copper, which is 53.58 per cent-owned by Rio, 19.06 per cent by the Papua New Guinea government and 27.36 per cent by other shareholders, estimates it will cost about $3bn to reopen the mine, whose production was suspended on May 15, 1989.
The trucks and the electricity pylons may have been blown up, rusted or cannibalised, but the resources in the mine have not been damaged or diminished over the past 21 years. It contains 3.5 million tonnes of copper, today worth about $32.4bn, and 12.7 million ounces of gold, worth today about $17.8bn.
There are more reserves beyond the pit but still in the mine lease area.
The mine as presently configured is capable of producing up to 170,000 tonnes of copper and 500,000 ounces of gold annually.
The copper price has quadrupled since the mine closed, the gold price seven times.
The values of the two metals have usually run counter-cyclically, but this year they have peaked together.
But the cost of capital is also high, and is likely to come at a premium given the tumultuous history of the mine.
Former Australian prime minister Bob Hawke, who has close Chinese commercial connections, in late November visited Port Moresby, where he talked with Prime Minister Michael Somare and Mr Momis.
The discussions included plans to reopen the Bougainville mine.
After leading a Bougainville delegation of 34 on a visit to China, where he was once the PNG ambassador, Mr Momis said: "The Chinese have expressed an interest in the mine, but we are keeping all our options open."
The overwhelming focus of 40 years ago on the mine as a national economy maker or breaker is no longer present.
It would remain the crucial income earner for Bougainville itself, but for PNG the spotlight has shifted to the $16.5bn ExxonMobil-led venture piping gas from the Southern Highlands to Port Moresby, where it will be liquefied for export to Asia. This is by far the biggest project ever conceived in the Pacific islands.
In this context, Port Moresby might more readily contemplate transferring its 19 per cent ownership of Bougainville Copper to the island itself -- where preliminary discussions have contemplated the autonomous government retaining 60 per cent, and the landowners taking 40 per cent.
On a pro rata basis, the owners of PNG's 19 per cent share would have to raise $570 million towards the mine's reopening.
It is possible Chinese entities, eager to obtain reliable sources of resources, may be prepared to help fund it, either in return for equity, or for future copper output.
26.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
BOUGAINVILLE PEACEFUL
By Aloysius Laukai
The people of Bougainville have observed the Christmas festivities peacefuly with no trouble throughout the region.
Reports reaching New Dawn FM office from Buin says that a Mekamui soldier only was wounded and he is being brought to the Buka Hospital tonight.
The Mekamui soldier was involved in charging fees to the civilians for drinking within the Konnou COE.
Reports states that he was found drinking and some of his soldiers were not happy with him thus resulting in him being wounded as a warning for him and the other soldiers to follow what they preach.
In some minor incidents, A drunkard was swearing at a staff member of New Dawn Fm last Friday night.
And Police were called in they apprehended the suspect but Police were questioning him next minute he jumped over the fence and escaped in the dark.
Lucky for him he was captured again in the early hours of Saturday morning.
24.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
ABG games a success
By GORETHY KENNETH
BOUGAINVILLE’S third ABG Games ended on a high note in Buin yesterday with the Buka Atolls flying their colours with first placing with a total of 40 gold medals.
Host region, South Bougainville teams ended the ABG Games on second placing with 32 Gold medals, central Bougainville, the heart of the Bougainville Crisis – where it accommodates the Panguna Mine that started the civil war – came third with 19 gold medals while the northern part of the region won eight gold medals.Event manager Joe Maineke said yesterday on the overall, the Buin Games has had no major hiccups and the tally so far for the regions was:
- South Bougainville, 87 medals
- Buka-81 medals
- Central Bougainville -50 medals
- Northern Bougainville-29 medals and
“We broke it up in gold, silver and bronze and here is the tally:”
- South – 32 gold, 31 Silver, 24 bronze
- Central- 19 Golds, 15 silver, 16 bronze
- North-8 Golds, 12 Silver 9 Bronze
- Buka/Atolls 40 Golds, 22 Silver and 19 Bronze
“The theme of the Games have been achieved and all Bougainvilleans alike sang, danced and partied with joy as those from the Atolls, the mountains of Kunua, the islands of Buka and far north and central saw and witnessed for themselves that Buin after all was not that bad as they hear everywhere,” Maineke said.
Minister for Sports Rose Pihei officially closed the ceremony and hailed the 3rd ABG Games the biggest success and achievement for this year, especially when ABG was struggling to rid weapons and reconcile and make peace all over, the ABG Games was the venue to do that and it was achieved.
“Many of us here in Buin can now go back and tell our brothers and sisters, our children and those that could not make it that peace has now prevailed and you can travel to and from all these areas without harassment,” she said. The 3rd ABG Games has promoted good sportsmanship and made possible for us the road to reconciliation and peace.”
24.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
GAMES BREAKTHROUGH
By Aloysius Laukai
The women of Konnou were able to shakehands with their other sisters thanks to the 3rd ABG games just completed in Buin this week.
The women from the Konnou COE were divided by the ongoing fighting in their areas since the start of the Bougainville conflict.
They were separated by groupings such as the Freedom Fighters around Konnou and Coastal COE and the Mekamui in the Upper Konnou with the Wisai Liberation Group(Wilmo) in the Wisai area.
Because they were assigned to cook for the 3rd ABG games the women were able to meet for the first time and in a small ceremony shook hands witnessed by the Womens member for South Rose Pihei.
They then agreed and set aside January 13th, 2011 as a date in which they should arrange another reconciliation ceremony at TABAGO Parish.
This time they would want their fighting children to also join in.
Pictured here are Mekamui fighters who decided to come out and see the ABG games in Buin.
More than 5o members came and saw what was happening in the real world. Welcome to the real world boys.
24.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
WOMEN PRAISED
By Aloysius Laukai
The Minister for Community Development women and Sports, ROSE PIHEI this week praised the mothers of Konnou COE in Buin for taking a bold step for creating total peace in the Konnou area of Buin.
She told New Dawn FM that the step taken by the women to shake hands during the 3rd ABG games is very encouraging to the total peace and normalcy in Bougainville.
The Minister made these remarks after witnessing the women of three groupings in the Konnou COE to forget their differences of the past twenty years and talk peace at last.
She says that she has been trying her best to talk to these women for a long time and was happy that the 3rd ABG games has made it possible for this to happen.
Pic of the women shaking hands
24.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Students’ addresses community
By Veronica Hannette
The UPNG students from North Bougainville are going into Communities to give awareness’s on drugs, alcohol, law and order issues, HIV/AIDS, and Education.
At their recent awareness conducted in Ieta village, the students challenged the people of Ieta to be more cautious of their behavior in order to have a better community.
President of the UPNG students SELWYN SIRIMAN told the community that, Ieta is the gateway of Bougainville therefore they must be mindful as their behavior will reflect the Bougainville community as a whole.
He says it is possible for change to happen, because individuals have to change in order to change the community itself.
Mr Siriman also challenged organizations to formulate the mindset of the people in encouraging communities to be more cooperative.
He says today a lot of youths are influenced with drugs and alcohol therefore he appealed to the community leaders to look into these matters.
Meanwhile, plans are underway to conduct awareness in the Peit and Tonsu area after Christmas.
The team has already covered Taiof, Gogohe, Halia, Malsang, Lontis, Haku and Tohatsi areas.
24.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Constable appeals for trouble-free X-mas
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
Constable Lesley Meten has called on all boat owners in this time of Christmas to register their boat’s serial number with the Bougainville Police.
Constable Meten made this call on behalf of the Bougainville Police Service following reports on people stealing boats.
He says with the serial number, the Police will easily trace the boats if stolen.
Meanwhile, Constable Meten appeals to all drivers not to overload the trucks as it’s the festive season and everyone is excited.
He says this Christmas would be peaceful and harmonious if people observe and obey the policing laws.
He urged people not to take law into their hands as they will not solve anything thus they will create more problems for themselves.
24.12.2010
Source: ASX
Opening hours Australian Securities Exchange
Last Business Day before Christmas Day Friday 24 December: ALL CLOSE EARLY (14 H)
Monday 27 December: NO TRADING
Tuesday 28 December: NO TRADING
Last Business Day of the Year Friday 31 December ALL CLOSE EARLY (14 H)
23.12.2010
Source: The National
K167.9m for autonomous region goes through house
By STEPHANIE ELIZAH
THE Bougainville house of assembly has passed a record 2011 ABG budget of K167.9 million, which is the sixth full budget for Bougainville since it was established in 2005.
Bougainville minister for Finance, treasury and planning Albert Punghau said the budget which was presented to the Minister for Finance and Treasury Peter O’Neill last week, depicts the Bougainville government’s policy shift and emphasis on districts.
The total revenue and grants were projected at K167,911,000 which was K12.7 million higher than the 2010 ABG budget of K155.2
million.
The budget
highlights were:
. Promoting improved law and order;
. Fostering reconciliation and weapons disposal, including budget support for the peace ministry;
. Dissecting and operationalising the Bougainville peace agreement;
. Preparation for referendum for Independence as guaranteed by the Bougainville peace agreement;
. Strengthening of council of chief-elders and village assemblies;
. Generating and sustaining economic development;
. Ensuring socio-economic development through service delivery, particularly in health
and education;
. Further improving infrastructure and communications;
. Draw down and implementation of powers and improved productivity of the ABG;
. Enhancing revenue generation and collection; and
. Reviewing and implementation of improved governance.
Punghau said the priority areas that were being promoted by the ABG through the annual money plan include:
* Health;
* Education;
* District infrastructure;
* Feeder roads;
* Economic recovery;
* Reconciliation and weapons disposal;
* LLG-community development; and
* Institutional capacity building.
The major revenue sources for the K167.9 million appropriated budget comprise:
. Recurrent unconditional and conditional grants K66,219,000;
. Restoration and development grants K54, 441,000;
. Internal revenue K9,954,000; and
. Other revenue sources K37,297,000.
Punghau requested, when presenting the 2011 ABG budget to O’Neill, that funding disbursements by the state to Bougainville be done on a quarterly basis and in a timely manner.
22.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
ABG Games closes
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
The 3rd ABG games ended today with the closing ceremony held in Buin this afternoon.
These games were a success as all teams were able to bring back some achievements to their respective zones.
Presentation of awards was done but players were presented with certificates because medals which were supposed to be flown in from Lae could not make it in time due to flight schedules.
The winner of the third ABG games was Buka Atolls declared with a total of 40 gold medals South Bougainville coming in 2nd with 32 gold medals Central Bougainville coming in 3rd with 19 gold medals and North Bougainville came in 4th with 8 gold medals.
The games were officially declared closed this afternoon by Minister for Community development and Sports Rose Pihei.
22.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Police commander’s advocates unity
By Veronica Hannette
Bougainville’s Northern, Central and Southern Regional police Commanders have assured the people of Bougainville that they will work together as a team; sharing whatever resources they have to have an effective police force for Bougainville.
Bougainville Acting Assistant Police Commander Huitona Tohua, North Bougainville Commander Cletus Tsien and South Regional Commander Chief Inspector Paul Kamuai advocate for unity on behalf of the Bougainville police service in the region.
Appeals were given to Bougainvillean youths to do away with their own ethnic groups and think of themselves as united Bougainvilleans.
The commanders challenged the people to think positively and allow positive changes into their lives in order for Buin and South Bougainville to prosper.
Sports have helped in maintaining law and order as it occupies youngsters and keeps them out of trouble.
22.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Constable gives X-mas message
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
The Bougainville Police Service will continue to run awareness programs on radio on the current trend of law and order in the region.
Constable Lesley Meten says the people’s attitude has made law and order an issue in Bougainville.
He says the Bougainville Police will not give up, they will continue to talk as that is the only way to solve the problem.
Constable Meten stressed that even though people are aware that homebrew is illegal, they continue to brew and consume homebrew.
Meanwhile, Constable Meten says adultery has become common in Bougainville as men and women are involved with multiple partners.
He says that adultery leads to other related problems like assault, domestic violence, retaliation and destroying of property.
He appeals to the people of Bougainville to work with the police and other stake holders in this time of Christmas to minimize law and order problem.
22.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Liquor ban a success
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
The recent liquor ban in Arawa which went on for six weeks since its implementation has been hailed a success.
The ban was lifted on the 13th of this month allowing the sale of alcohol in public areas.
The community of Arawa has praised the Bougainville Police Service for the implementation of the ban.
Steven Abini a resident in Arawa says unlike before the ban Arawa is now more quiet and safer at night.
He says during the liquor ban there weren’t any dunked youths on the streets that would like in the past, be harassing the public.
Mr Abini has praised the Police for their tireless efforts during the liquor ban and calls for a similar exercise to be carried out for the New Year period.
22.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Stocks running low
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
With Christmas approaching this weekend businesses in Buka are feeling the rush of the festive season.
Many store goods such as freezer goods rice and sugar are running low as many customers are stocking up for the long weekend.
Store owners are predicting that much of their stocks are expected to run out by the end of this week.
This however is a normal trend for both consumer and the business houses in Buka town.
Consorts shipping schedule will see one of its ships dock in Buka early next week giving a breather for the people of Buka as they will not be left high and dry for the New Year celebrations.
22.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Deal signed to lift Bougainville roadblock
By Veronica Hannette
An agreement has been signed last week to lift a roadblock at Central Pass near Oria in Central Bougainville.
This is a positive step forward for Bougainville as the road block had been a setback for development in the region and an inconvenience for people travelling to and from Arawa.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed a day before the inaugural flight carrying ABG President John Momis to Buin to officially open the ABG Games.
The MOU was signed among pro-ABG factions and the Bougainville Freedom Fighters to uplift the blocked areas at Kuala, Ligo and Moikui.
The factions promised during the signing to lay down their weapons for the sake of peace and ensure that the Bougainville Games were held without any disturbance.
A .303 rifle was handed over to authorities and the pro-ABG factions pledged to hand in more weapons in the future.
Meanwhile, there is an assurance that safety is granted during the games.
At the same time, Bougainville’s acting Assis-tant Police Commissioner Huitona Tohua has expressed his gratitude to the people of Buin, for hosting the 2010 ABG Games.
22.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
MPs relationship to public bad
By Veronica Hannette
BOUGAIVILLE leaders’ behaviour in public is now becoming a major concern to the public and causing problems for some.
There have been concerns from the public on political members’ approach to the public.
A concerned group of elders from Buka Island made a comment that if the leaders were not careful with their public approach, the public will turn against the idea of establishing, promoting and maintaining firm respectable relationship that unites the Government leaders and the society.
The group said they were not happy with the speech given by Autonomous Bougainville Government Minister for Education and Member for Mahari Constituency of North Bougainville John Tabinaman at Hutjena Secondary School’s graduation following the statement: “I will take off my cap as an Education Minister for the time being and talk as a church worker.”
This, they said was an example of the behaviour of leaders in public together with public drinking and causing a nuisance in public places.
The leader said that this was part of a very discouraging statement made to the very people who mandated him.
They said ABG members should be addressing the public in a more encouraging way and not to let their people feel bad about their own leaders and also leaders should take a more responsive approach and not cause nuisance in public.
21.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Youths to change
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
At the recent 5th United Church Bougainville Youth Convention held in Arawa the challenge was issued for change in the lifestyle of youths today.
With many of Bougainville’s youths today being involved in all kinds activates there is a growing concern that our future leaders will not be able to lead the region forward.
Keynote speaker of the Convention Bishop Reverend Tim David Arthur challenged youths to live and grow in discipleship.
He says many youths today are getting involved in activities such as drugs and alcohol and the increasing trend is a growing concern.
He challenged youths to leave such activities and become true faithful God honoring Christians.
The convention which started on the 13th of this month ended on Sunday the19th.
21.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Lauru Youths visit Panguna
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
A total of 105 Youths from Lauru Region in Solomon Islands have visited Panguna Mine.
The Youths who are here for the regional Youth Convention took time off on Saturday to visit the closed Panguna Mine.
The team lead by Reverend Timothy Zale came to Bougainville on Sunday and was in Arawa for the duration of the Convention.
The visit to Panguna was the first for many of them and many after the experience were left surprised and amazed at the sights.
The team retuned today back to Solomon Islands aboard 10 banana boats escorted by Bougainville police.
21.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Doctor urges public to celebrate in good way
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
The Acting Director for Medical Services at Buka Hospital Dr Joe Vilosi has called on the people of Bougainville to celebrate Christmas in a good way.
Dr Vilosi made a special call on students to be mindful in what they’re doing.
He says a lot of the students like to hang around with their peers during the holidays.
Dr Vilosi tells New Dawn FM that Buka hospital is aware of the number of young men who are now mentally affected due to prolong consumption of marijuana.
He says young men who are involved in drugs act like animals and this paints a bad picture of the communities they come from.
He urged young people to stop taking drugs and listen to their elders for their own good.
21.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
NC Civil Works faces challenges
By Veronica Hannette
The Nick Constantino Civil Works road sealing program is scheduled to end this week.
The Civil Works projects officer Deon Tulo says they have faced a lot of problems with the road sealing itself.
Deon says the Civil Works was assigned to seal the road, instead it also did road repairs which was more that they expected.
He says the 12 million kina budget that was allocated for the road sealing is not enough because the condition of the road is not good.
Hiring machines was a problem as it is expensive and also the company was cautious in the amount of materials it loaded onto the trucks.
Meanwhile, the Nick constantino Civil Works has sealed 4 kilometers of the road.
21.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Buka Hospital scale down on admissions
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
The Buka General hospital has announced its scaling down of admissions this Christmas.
The Acting Director for Medical Services Dr Joe Vilosi made this announcement in his Christmas message to the people of Bougainville.
He says the hospital has informed health workers from all the health centers that Buka hospital will not be getting elective cases until New Year.
He adds Buka Hospital will only concentrate on serious and emergency cases.
Dr Vilosi also reminded the diabetics to control their sugar level because many people are dying due to complications with diabetes.
He says diabetes and high blood pressure is becoming a concern for Bougainville.
He urged the people to observe their sugar and blood levels and seek medication from the hospital.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
One of the Bridge Project is nearing completion
pic:Dunstan Laukai
site:Mabiri
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
UNDP officer dies
By Veronica Hannette
A United Nations Development Projects officer late Joe Ron died after a tragic accident which happened yesterday at White Island.
Late Joe Ron had served as an Administration and Finance officer for the UNDP for 4 years.
Late Joe Ron was with friends on a church picnic when he drowned and was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Mr. Ron is survived with three daughters, two sons and six grand children and his second wife.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Games brings Achievements
By Veronica Hannette
The 3rd ABG games have brought a lot of achievements to Buin.
Host organizing committee Joseph Bakoi says these games have brought achievements like reconciliation and opening of the Turiboiru airport in Buin.
Joseph says it’s been almost 30 years and for PNG Power to install electricity in Buin is a big achievement.
He also extended his gratitude to the Autonomous Bougainville Sports Federation for selecting the area which brought a lot of improvement to the region.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
PNG Power Lights Buin Town
By Joyce Tohui
PNG Power has restored power service in Buin Town.
The official switching on of power was done coinciding with the official opening of the 3rd ABG Games in Buin.
A PNG Power officer Albert Nanapo says the project came about with a good working relationship between the ABG Government, the National members and PNG Power.
He says this is one of many projects PNG Power is working on in the region.
Mr. Nanapo says the successful completion of the Buin power project came well with the support from the National Member for South Bougainville, Steven Pirika and ABG.
The PNG Power officer encouraged Member Pirika to contribute more money to electrification because power brought along development.
And he requested for the people of South Bougainville to look after the expensive asset.
Meanwhile Member for South Bougainville, Steven Pirika officially launched the 500 kilowatt power station in Buin saying it will be a 24-hour service and this will greatly boost the development taking place in the township of Buin South Bougainville.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
NGI reports more HIV positive cases
By Joyce Tohui
HIV/AIDS is increasing at an alarming rate in the New Guinea Islands region.
That’s according to the recent surveillance data from the National Department of Health which states the Islands region is reporting more HIV positive cases.
And Dr. Mohammad Salim from WHO says HIV/AIDS is going to be a big problem for Bougainville.
He says among all provinces in PNG, Bougainville has the highest STI rate and it’s alarming for the region putting everyone at risk.
The Public Health Advisor says during a pilot program carried out in some communities last month, results have shown that 67% of the males and females are STI positive.
He says when more people have STI diseases; the population of Bougainville is at risk of getting HIV.
Meanwhile Dr. Salim says people who have STI are more at risk to get HIV and those that have HIV are prone to get Tuberculosis.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Sports Corporate body plans underway
By Joyce Tohui
Plans are underway to set up a corporate body for a Bougainville Sports Foundation.
The Minister for Community Development revealed this during the official opening of the 3rd ABG Games in Buin.
She says funding constraints in hosting such games has forced the Autonomous Bougainville Sports Foundation planning to set up a corporate body.
Mrs. Pihei says it might be a long way of to make sports a career but it’s her sincerely hope that Sports Foundation will have it’s corporate body up to raise it’s own funds to run sports in the region.
Meanwhile the National Member for South Bougainville, Steven Pirika pledges his support to help the minister with funding to set up the sports foundation.
He says it is a right way for Bougainville to have its own Sports Foundation.
Mr. Pirika says money is a burden and many times the Government spends on other projects and it is wise to help Minister Pihei make this dream come true in making a bright future for sports in Bougainville.
20.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
MPs relation to public
By Veronica Hannnette
There have been concerns on our Political members approach to the public.
A concerned citizen made a comment that if the leaders are not careful with their public approach, the public will turn against the idea of establishing, promoting and maintaining firm respectable relationship that unites government leaders and the society.
The person concern was not happy with a speech given by the Education Minister and member for Mahari John Tabinaman; at the Hutjena Secondary school’s graduation following a statement “I will take off my cap as an Education Minister for a time being and talk as a Church Worker”.
The person who wants to remain anonymous says this is part of a very discouraging statement made to the very people who mandated him.
He says that ABG MPs should be addressing the public in a more encouraging way and not to let their people feel bad about their leaders.
In additional, suggestions have been made to replace the Minister in charge of Education to other experienced members.
20.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
NZ needs local cast
By GORETHY KENNETH
THE New Zealand international film crew filming the Bougainville setting of Mr Pip movie are due in Bougainville again next month to hold more auditions.
Diana Cochrane, Assistant to Robin Scholes of Eyeworks Film and TV Drama Ltd told the Post-Courier from New Zealand over the weekend that “Nikki Barrett was coming back to Port Moresby and Bougainville to hold more audtions for Mr Pip.
“We will be meeting Bougainvilleans, male and female from kids up to older adults to play a range of roles in Mr Pip or even to possibly be extras,” she said.
“We will be casting in and around Arawa from January 4 and people should keep an eye out for posters with the location etc or call. And then note that people will need to be Arawa based for the filming.
“We will get onto the Port Moresby PNG soldier boys and set that up for either 2nd, or for when Nikki is coming back through in the other direction (depending on who is around).”
This is the movie set in Bougainville where the main character Matilda is a young Bougainvillean looking for her original destiny.
Last Monday, three young Bougainvillean teenagers, chosen to further audition for Matilda character flew to New Zealand to meet the directors and producers of the movie.
Among them is a grade eight student of Kamarau International School, Xjania Matsi, who was also a lone graduate of Kamarau for grade eight this year. Ms Matsie is from central and south Bougainville. Her father is an Australian.
20.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Buin rises after demise
By GORETHY KENNETH
BUIN for the first time had a plane land at its Turiboiru airstrip last Friday, the first one after its closure 21 years ago.
Bougainville President John Momis, Treasurer Albert Punghau and Sports Minister Rose Pihei including south Bougainville National MP Steven Pirika Kama officially commissioned the Buin airport open for use – a very positive step forward for development in Buin and Bougainville as a whole.
Thousands of people gathered at the Buin airstrip to welcome the inaugural flight into Buin on the regional Bougainville Air, which was piloted by Bougainvilleans Marceline Ampaoi and John Imaka with help from a friend Greg.
Picture Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Mr Momis was proud to fly on the inaugural flight to Buin! The Post-Courier was the only media on board the inaugural flight, thanks to ABG and the flight pilots.
This is the airline that will merge in a major joint venture with AVIC international, a Chinese multi-national company that will bring in its Y12 high tech plane to officially operate in Bougainville in the new year.
Apart from the commissioning of the airport, the Buin Aropa to Arawa Highway is also ready for use, after a peace reconciliation ceremony was also held in Buin during the games.
President Momis held a peace reconciliation ceremony before the games officially kicked off and that is now a sign that total peace is now returning to the whole island of Bougainville. As if the positives were not enough, Buin is now lit up – PNG Power switched on its electricity on the official opening day on Friday.
It was a moving ceremony, coupled with the inaugural flight and the commissioning of the airport – plus the now opening of the Buin, Aropa and Arawa Highway!
20.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Bougainvlle unites
By GOREHTY KENNETH
THE Autonomous Bougainville Games officially kicked off in Buin last Friday with more than 5000 contingents already participating in scheduled games.
ABG President John Momis officially opened the Buin Games flanked by ABG Treasurer Albert Punghau, Local Level Government Minister Joseph Nopei and other MPs. South Bougainville MP Steven Pirika Kama who was also present, was the proudest man together with Momis because Buin was their home town.
AusAID officials, the United Nations and other civil society organisations also set up at Buin to witness the official opening of the Games. Many cultural groups were present to celebrate the day.
Event Manager Joe Maineke gave the run down as soon as the official opening was done.
Saturday saw all coaches organising themselves to make sure all games were on schedule.
Marathon kicked off also on Saturday morning with a five kilometre run from Kangu Beach to Buin Secondary School.
Maineke advised all facilities were upgraded at the three main sporting arenas which included the Buin Secondary School sporting grounds and Hall, Buin Specialised Training Centre and Buin Town oval.
The three game venues allocated for sporting events included Buin Secondary where soccer, athletics, field and track events would be palyed. Buin Secondary Hall will accommodate taekwondo.
The main oval will have rugby nines and sevens, kick boxing and boxing and volleyball. Softball will be played at the district office grounds while – touch and basketball in Buin STC.
There was a late contingent from Kunua who arrived on Saturday night from the ship at Kangu – bringing the number to 5000 contingents with all the cultural groups from Kunua, YK Bamboo band from Pororan and several from Solomon Islands. The arena is still very colourful with sporting uniforms of all sort and colours.
The highlight of the games is the inclusion of the Wisai Rebel groups with their sporting teams.
20.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Buin ready for development
SPORTS has played the biggest role in breaking the barrier for fighters, former fighters and people of all walks of life in Buin! And the ABG Games has been the catalyst! Now the people of Buin can show the rest of Bougainville that after all, they are not that bad! That they are also peacemakers and that they are ready for development in the region.
20.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
24 Hour power haus win
PNG Power switched on 24-hour power in Buin! Two powerful women executives of Bougainville moved to a guesthouse in Buin over the weekend, before the night was out, they were begging the PNG Power boys to put the power off. The women had thought that the building next door was a haus win. No! It was a bar and the patrons kept the women awake all night with their noise.
19.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
GAMES PROGRESSING
By Aloysius Laukai in Buin
The 3rd ABG games could become a catalyst for the development on Buin and South Bougainville in so far as peace and stabilty for the region is concerned.
Since the Opening ceremony last Friday there has been total peace in Buin as all constituencies are providing food and other assistance for the Bougianville Games a thing that could not have happened in the past.
The recent Peace and Reconciliation between warring factions in the Konnou area may have contributed to this.
On Friday the PNG POWER generators bought by the South Bougainville Member STEVEN KAMA PIRIKA was officially switched on by the member himself.
He also gave another ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND KINA to the Organizers of the 3rd ABG games.
Bougainville President JOHN MOMIS was very happy to see Bougainville sportsmen and women braved the heat of the sun to show solidarity of Bougainville.
He told the crowd that the ABG would contribute more in the next ABG games.
Local Community Radio NEW DAWN FM is broadcasting live from BUIN as part of its contribution to the peace process on Bougainville.
The people of Buin Town can also get New Dawn FM on 95.3 MHZ during the full duration of the games.
Yesterday heavy rain and thunderstorms stopped the Games and the games were delayed to this morning Sunday.
This morning the 5,000 meters was won by a Bougainvillean PNG champion with another lad from Buin coming second...a neck to neck case to the end.
Other highlights of todays games would be provided later.
ALSO MORE PICS Patrick and our viewers out there.
Pics of New Dawn FM team in Buin:
Pictured here are Clarence Vinoko and Dunstan Laukai working at the temporary set up.
17.12.2010
Source: ESBC Research
Are the Sydney BCL Share Price Manipulators Based in New York?
by Axel G. Sturm
Today I have been informed by my broker that all my Bougainville Copper shares that I have aquired in Sydney are safekept by the Bank of New York Mellon. That is a really scary situation as this bank had already been involved in the un-lawful sale of unsecured Bougainville Copper ADRs in the past.
Today the Bank of New York again, may be also involved in lendering of BCL shares to shortsellers without the aknowledge of the true shareholders. The ESBC recommend to all BCL shareholders concerned to change the safekeeping of their BCL securites to Clearstream in Luxembourg. Clearstream is a subsidiary of Deutsche Boerse AG and its only activity is the safekeeping of international securities. I change the safekeeper of my BCL shares to Luxembourg.
Sitzen die Drahtzieher der BCL Kursmanipulationen in Sydney in New York?
von Axel G. Sturm
Soeben habe ich mit meiner Bank gesprochen. Sie teilte mir mit, dass alle meine in Sydney erworbenen BCL Aktien als Lagerstelle die Bank of New York / Mellon haben.
Ihr könnt Euch mein Entsetzen vorstellen. Immerhin ist die Bank of New York / Mellon einer der Hauptakteure in der kriminellen Herausgabe von unbesicherten BCL ADRs gewesen. Deshalb liegt sehr nahe, dass die Bank auch heute nach wie vor ohne Wissen ihrer Lagerstellenkunden, deren Aktien zum Verleih an Shortseller nutzt. Der Kreis unseriöser Manipulationen schließt sich also…und schon wieder in New York!
Bitte, erkundigt Euch, wo Eure Aktien gelagert werden. Sollten Eure Aktien in New York liegen, versucht sie zu Clearstream Luxemburg zu verlagern, da diese Lagerstelle als Tochter der Deutschen Börse AG keine anderen Geschäftsinteressen als die Lagerung von Aktien verfolgt. Schon gar nicht den Verleih von Aktien. Ich habe entsprechende Schritte unternommen.
17.12.2010
Source: ESBC Research
First response from ASX!
Click and read here!
17.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
BUIN ALIVE
By Aloysius Laukai
The sleepy town of Buin came alive this morning as people gathered from all over Bougainville to witness the Opening of the 3rd ABG Games today.
President Momis and his delegation were flown to Buin from Buka on PNG AVIATION SERVICES inaugural flight to Buin.
The plane made two trips to Buin today.
The Airport was filled by people who were surprised to see the first plane landing again after so many years of conflict.
Pictured is the Plane landing in BUIN this morning.
17.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
MINI MARKET OPENED
By Aloysius Laukai
There were many activities at the Opening of the 3rd Bougainville Games in Buin.
First the arrival of President Momis and his delegation on a National Airline plane which made its maiden flight to Buin.
Then the Opening and Switching on of PNG Power in Buin the Actual Games Opening and the Opening of the Buin Town Mini market.
Pictured is President Momis cuting the ribbon of the newly built market built by the Regional Member for Bougainville.
Picture of ABG President John Momis on the Buin Mini Market Opening today.
Teop group performing their Wave dance at today's Opening in Buin.
16.12.2010
Source: ESBC
ESBC Declares War to Fraudulent ASX Market Participants!
Read here the today's ESBC email to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX):
Bougainville Copper (BOC): Alleged fraudulent behavior of one or more market participants
Dear Sirs,
Once again we feel obliged to inform you about strange market movements in Bougainville Copper shares within the last few weeks. Please see the today’s course of sales in BOC at the end of this mail.
It seems to be quite obvious that BOC shares are again a target of fraudulent behavior of one or more market participants. This is only possible by knowledge or even support of the actual market maker.
As third biggest group of BOC shareholders the ESBC have to insist that now – once and for all - you will apply adaequate measures to stop all fraudulent trade activities in Bougainville Copper shares.
We regret that we feel obliged to give you a final ultimatum of 14 days from now – until the end of this year – to investigate on this matter.
If we should not receive any satisfying response from you, we will not hesitate to bring this issue to criminal investigation of Australian authorities next year!
This email will be published on our homepage www.bougainville-copper.eu shortly!
Yours sincerely,
Axel G. Sturm
President
Vientiane, 16.12.2010
Course of Sales for BOC
as at 12/16/2010 5:05:43 PM
Time Quantity Price Reference
08:59:50 69 1.700 0
08:59:50 2,431 1.700 0
08:59:50 2,569 1.700 0
08:59:50 4,031 1.700 0
09:00:00 3 1.650 0
09:08:09 6 1.650 0
09:17:24 2 1.650 0
09:18:39 2 1.650 0
09:30:31 687 1.650 0
09:30:31 500 1.650 0
09:30:31 3,313 1.610 0
09:30:31 2 1.610 0
09:30:31 1,000 1.610 0
09:32:04 6,000 1.610 0
09:32:04 2 1.610 0
09:33:51 2 1.610 0
09:35:36 2 1.610 0
09:37:36 2 1.610 0
09:40:06 2 1.610 0
09:42:06 2 1.610 0
09:45:21 2 1.610 0
09:49:06 2 1.610 0
09:53:21 2 1.610 0
09:57:21 2 1.610 0
10:02:36 2 1.610 0
10:08:36 2 1.610 0
10:14:36 2 1.610 0
10:20:36 2 1.610 0
10:26:21 2 1.610 0
10:31:06 2 1.610 0
10:31:55 2 1.615 0
10:37:51 1,400 1.615 0
10:42:37 2 1.615 0
10:47:22 2 1.615 0
10:53:22 2 1.620 0
12:28:17 2 1.620 0
12:28:17 2 1.625 0
12:28:18 3 1.630 0
12:28:18 3 1.630 0
12:33:43 3 1.630 0
12:33:43 3 1.630 0
12:33:43 3 1.630 0
12:33:43 3 1.630 0
12:33:44 3 1.630 0
12:36:22 2 1.630 0
12:38:42 750 1.665 0
12:39:30 4,000 1.675 0
12:41:52 626 1.675 0
12:42:51 74 1.675 0
12:42:51 6,000 1.685 0
12:42:55 1,926 1.695 0
12:43:02 614 1.695 0
12:43:56 5,195 1.700 0
12:43:56 1,424 1.700 0
12:56:36 1,088 1.700 0
14:32:21 1,190 1.615 0
14:32:22 9 1.615 0
14:32:22 9 1.615 0
14:32:22 3 1.615 0
14:32:22 3 1.615 0
14:32:22 6 1.615 0
14:32:22 6 1.615 0
14:32:23 5 1.615 0
14:33:08 5 1.615 0
14:40:23 3 1.620 0
14:43:38 3 1.620 0
14:48:38 5 1.620 0
14:52:23 4 1.620 0
14:54:41 3,000 1.620 0
14:54:53 3 1.620 0
14:56:23 2 1.625 0
16.12.2010
Source: AAP/Keith Jackson's PNG Attitude
China eyes Bougainville gold and copper
BY ILYA GRIDNEFF
AAP - CHINA'S MINERAL hunger could see it take a bite into the massive Bougainville gold and copper mine that has been dormant ever since a decade-long civil war with Papua New Guinea
So far, China's mining pursuits in PNG have been a disaster and Bougainville remains hostile to outsiders.
China's Metallurgical Group Corporation's billion dollar investment in the Ramu nickel mine in PNG's Madang Province has been beset with lengthy court cases, protests, violence and endless difficulties with government departments.
And now, Bougainville President John Momis says China has expressed interest in a potential role in reopening Bougainville's Panguna gold and copper mine.
Rio Tinto, which has a 53 percent stake in Panguna mine owner Bougainville Copper Limited describes China as one of its most important partners.
China's state-owned aluminium company Chinalco currently has a 12 percent interest in Rio Tinto.
Rio declined to comment over possible arrangements for reopening the mine but Mr Momis told AAP there had to be a "paradigm shift" in approaching Panguna.
"We're open to discussion to make sure we get the best and most equitable deal," he said.
One theory, according to Mr Momis - who is the former PNG ambassador to China - is the Chinese could pay for the mine's estimated $4 billion cost to reopen in exchange for an equity stake.
"We are cash strapped as a government, and we are putting this to potential partners that we would be very keen to have some upfront payment even before the deal for the mine is negotiated," he said.
"The Chinese have expressed an interest in the mine, but we are keeping all our options open."
Speculation of Chinese interest in Panguna was sparked after news that former Australian prime minister Bob Hawke met with "old friends" PNG prime minister Sir Michael Somare and Mr Momis, in Port Moresby in late November.
Mr Hawke is active in business relations with China and sits on Fortescue Metals Group's China Advisory Board. His consultancy, Robert JL Hawke and Associates, has a Shanghai office.
However, both Mr Hawke and Mr Momis said no specific Chinese interest was being positioned for Panguna.
Mr Hawke, a 'chief' in PNG after he was awarded the Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu in 2008, the highest honour available to non-PNG citizens, told AAP the recent meeting covered many items.
"A whole range of things were discussed and in the course of the discussion there was reference to Bougainville," he said.
"There was talk about reopening of Panguna but I can categorically deny I am representing Chinese-state interests.
"Of course, there is an economical and political interest in Bougainville's future, but to say I was representing China is utter crap."
Mr Hawke said he was in PNG working for a Korean company on unrelated matters.
Mr Momis, who has repeatedly asked the PNG government to fulfil the agreement to transfer its 19 per cent mine shareholding to the Bougainville government, said no undertaking had been made to China.
"Mr Hawke did say it was important to keep the China option open but there was no agenda being pushed," he said.
"We discussed the possibility of reopening the mine. We talked about China and other companies including Rio Tinto."
Landowner groups recently met to discuss reopening central Bougainville's controversial Panguna mine, but the memory of the guerilla war that claimed an estimated 20,000 lives from fighting and disease from 1987 to 1997 still looms large.
Despite talk the mine could reopen as early as December 2011, there are numerous hurdles relating to a series of complex negotiations and the ongoing peace and reconciliation program.
While the original conflict encompassed many divergent politics, the main problem stemmed from anger over the mine's massive revenue going to Australian-owned Bougainville Copper Limited and the PNG government, which at peak rate was about a quarter of PNG's GDP.
The Australian government supported PNG's inept efforts to quash the secessionist insurrection that was also sparked by local rage over the mine causing widespread environmental destruction.
The conflict dissipated when PNG military senior ranks learnt then-prime minister Julius Chan spent tens of millions of dollars hiring mercenaries led by British military man Tim Spicer.
A subsequent PNG military mutiny along with riots in the capital Port Moresby pushed the country to the brink of a coup, in what is now known as 1997's Sandline Crisis.
So now with all this behind them, the economic stability required for Bougainville's Independence referendum - scheduled for 2015 - is seen to be locked in Panguna.
Despite hostility Bougainville Copper Limited has remained in PNG slowly chipping away with gentle efforts to reopen the mine that still contains millions of tonnes of gold and copper.
Only time will tell how Panguna, this sleeping dragon of the Pacific, will awake.
15.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Budget passed
By Aloysius Laukai
The ABG Budget totalling K176,911,000 was passed by the House of Representatives this afternoon.
It was delivered by the Finance Minister ALBERT PUNGHAU yesterday.
After nearly all members commented on the budget today it was finally approved and passed.
ABG President when commenting on the Budget thanked all the members for supporting the budget.
He said unity of the ABG house was crucial and comments by all members on the budget is healthy and good for Bougainville.
15.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
SPONSOR HERE
By Aloysius Laukai
Director of Christensen Funds based in California, USA arrived in Buka today to take part in the one-day COOL CULTURAL SHOW in Arawa tomorrow.
Director KEN WILSON has been sponsoring the training of cultural activities in the Central Bougainville area and the students from these trainings would then take part in the bi- annual REEDS FESTIVAL.
MR. WILSON is accompanied by the Coordinator for Melanesia, CATHERINE SPARKS.
They would be looking at ways of improving these cultural trainings.
The COOL CULTURAL festival is organized by William Takaku and a group called TAMPARA DUANTA MELANESIA also based in Arawa.
The festival will have about ten participants show cultural attire and would be awarded prizes ranging from Cash Prize of K1,500.00 for the winner and second and 3rd placing.
Other participants would also receive consolation prizes.
Participants for the COOL CULTURAL SHOW are school students ranging from Elementary to Grade Eight.
15.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
STUDENTS CALL FOR PAYMENT
By Aloysius Laukai
Bougainville Students attending Tertiary institution throughout Papua New Guinea I would like to call up on the ABG to fulfill their commitment made to the various institutions regarding the school fees.
Bougainville Students Representative at the Pacific Adventist College, RICTER KOKINAI told New Dawn FMI from Port Moresby that he understands the ABG had already collected the overdue 15 million from the National Government and are now in their hands.
He said that the ABG must not turn a blind eye on its commitment made in colleges, universities regarding Bougainville students’ fee.
He says the ABG must invest the money on things that would have long term effect to people of Bougainville and the students believe education is the foremost and significant things that the ABG should have prioritized those 15 million than other things (claims Industry).
Thus we are calling to our Government to settle all the outstanding fees for this year to avoid any inconvenient during registration at early next year 2011.
MR. KOKINAI says that some schools have warned students not to register as of next year unless the ABG honors its 40 percent fees for this year.
15.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Bougainville leads STI in PNG
By Joyce Tohui
The Autonomous Region of Bougainville has the highest number of STI cases in Papua New Guinea.
The statistics was revealed by the World Health Organization.
WHO’s Public Health Advisor in Bougainville, Dr. Mohammad Salin told New Dawn FM News that through health programs carried out in rural communities, results have shown that 67% of the population in some communities are infected.
He says the rate of the Sexually Transmitted Infections in Bougainville is growing rapidly and its alarming for the region.
He says with the statistics, the people are more vulnerable in getting the HIV virus and if not controlled this will greatly affect the health of the region’s population.
15.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier's Yutok
Settle issues first
Following media coverage and recent meeting by so-called landowners of Panguna mine in Buka with the governor for Bougainville, I would like to highlight certain issues that need to be taken into consideration before continuing discussions and plans to reopen the mine.
First to set the record straight, the landowners did not close the mine. It was the Bougainville Revolutionary Army that successfully closed the mine because of environmental damage and for the interest of the everyone on the island. The BRA consisted of fighters from the North, Central and South Bougainville. A lot of soldiers died during the conflict, fighting to protect the environment that was destroyed by the mining giant, fighting for the land and lastly for total independence for Bougainville. For the landowners to try to reopen the mine without considering those who gave their lives and died for the closure would be an inconsiderate and greedy move. Panguna belongs to Bougainville and not a handful.
Second, when the mine was shut, there was a claim placed before the mining giant BCL, by the late Francis Ona on behalf of the landowners and Bougainville, K10 billion calculated at that exchange rate. This claim was for environmental damages and other associated factors. To all parties interested in the reopening of the mine we have not forgotten. We still stand firm with this claim as an outstanding issue that needs to be carefully considered and actioned by BCL.
Finally the move to reopen the mine as news is welcomed but very sensitive. We don’t want to go down the same road we came from.
We fought against environmental damage, for our land rights, and independence for Bougainville. Any discussions to reopen the mine must have fair representation.
I call on the National Government through the Bougainville Affairs Ministry not to raise false hope without properly gauging the views and accommodating all parties involved. I also call on the Autonomous Bougainville Government to carefully consider getting a fair system of distribution in place before the mine be opened, and to BCL, the claim for environmental damage still stands, that must be paid first before anything else is done. To the Panguna landowners, Panguna—after the war— now belongs to all Bougainvillians not only the Panguna people.
As long as these points are not considered, Panguna mine will not reopen.
ISHMAEL TOROAMA
BRA GENERAL
15.12.2010
Source: The National
Women oppose Panguna review
By STEPHANIE ELIZAH
THE women and children of Bougainville are not ready for the reopening of Panguna mine, a representative of the Bougainville Indigenous Women’s Landowners Association and sister of renowned Bougainville Revolutionary Army leader, late Francis Ona.
Lynette Ona, in response to recent reports of the mine’s reopening and talks to review the Bougainville Copper Agreement, added that the women of Bougainville had not been consulted for their views about the mine.
“In the past years, the women of Bougainville were just names, we never signed any agreement, we were never justly represented,” she said.
Ona added: “Panguna mine is not owned by only Panguna landowners because of the crisis, many lives were lost right across the island.
The mine belongs to the people from the South, Central and North Bougainville and they must be involved in any talks regarding the mine.
“The people of Bougainville must make a good decision about the reopening of the mine because if issues arising from the crisis like payment of damages and compensation for lives lost are not resolved, it will not be a crisis for politicians or the world, it will be the people fighting amongst themselves,” Ona said.
She urged that in order for peace and stability to continue on the island, a proper feasibility study must be conducted throughout the autonomous region.
“Consultation and awareness must be carried out by the stakeholders to gauge people’s feedback on the feasibility of re-opening the mine.
“We fought against the environmental damages the mine created and we fought for our independence. We have not yet gained independence and here we are considering reopening the mine,” Ona said.
15.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Education for Bougainville
By Gorethy Kenneth
BOUGAINVILLE’S current division will officially become a Department of Education by 2011.
This is an important a step towards the drawdown of the education powers now being implemented.
By 2011, the first technical and vocational colleges will officially come into operation at Koromira Technical Vocational College in Kieta, central Bougainville.
Also, the former Arawa Technical College, a leading educational institution before the crisis, will be relocated to Tinputz and officially called the Tinputz Technical College.
ABG Education executive officer Dorothy Kenneth, who has been officiating school closings and graduations throughout Buka announced recently. At Lontis Primary School, Ms Kenneth told students and ABG Haku MP James Leanger that before the 2011 school year, the drawdown of education powers will be exercised. Ms Kenneth, who spoke on behalf of education chief executive officer Bruno Babato said Bougainville will have an education department instead of a division. She also gave a rundown of the school fees for next year and they are:
Elementary Prep and Elementary 1 - (free), Elementary II - K19, Lower Primary School grades 3 to 5 - K69, Upper Primary School 6 to 8 - K119, Secondary School grades 9 to 10 (Day) - K608, Secondary School grades 9 to 10 (Boarder) - K1124, Secondary School grades 11 to 12 (Day) - K715 and Secondary School grades 11 to 12 (Boarder) - K1368 and finally FODE - K117 per subject.
14.10.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Police gets tough
By Veronica Hannette
Bougainville Police Christmas and New Year operation so far is getting results.
Since last week two suspects have been apprehended by the police for illegal possession of drugs.
John Giama, 37 and Timothy Kaiae were arrested for possession of homebrew kit and dangerous drugs.
The two suspects were held for further questioning.
Meanwhile, another suspect Eddie Robin is still at large.
He was last seen drinking with some friends at Kotopan village Halia Constituency after his disappearance.
Several attempts to apprehend him had been unsuccessful.
14.10.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
BUDGET DELIVERED
By Aloysius Laukai
The ABG Minister for Finance, ALBERT PUNGHAU this afternoon delivered the ABG’s 2011 budget totaling ONE HUNDRED SIXTY EIGHT MILLION KINA.
The Budget break up are as follows,
Internal Revenue NINE MILLION NINE HUNDRET FIFTY FOUR THOUSAND KINA.
National Government Grants of SEVENTY NINE MILLION 219 THOUSAND KINA,
Re-appropriated Funds THIRTHY SEVEN MILLION KINA and
Donor funding FOURTY ONE MILLION KINA.
The House was adjourned to tomorrow for the Budget debate before the budget is passed.
Pictured are members of the ABG House listening to the Finance Minister's Budget Speech this afternoon.
14.10.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
MALARIA AWARENESS
By Aloysius Laukai
Another Non Government Organization, Population Services International is carrying out Malaria Awareness on Buka Island this week.
The Four men and one woman team based in East New Britain started their awareness at Malayan one last Friday and will wind up their awareness on Friday this week in Haku.
The team told New Dawn FM last night that they will only cover Buka Island this year and are looking at returning to Bougainville in the New Year to cover mainland Bougainville.
Spokesperson, GRACE RUDDAKA says that their thirty minute awareness concept is being accepted by the communities.
She said that there is a need to carry out more awareness’s on locations as this was the most effective way of disseminating information to the most vulnerable people in the communities.
Acting Prime Minister: Sam Abal
14.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
PM bombshell
* PM referred and steps aside
* Sam Abal to be Acting PM
* Questions on Polye’s removal
PRIME Minister Sir Michael Somare dropped the bombshell last night – he will voluntarily step aside from office following his referral yesterday for a leadership tribunal to investigate misconduct charges against him. Newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister Sam Abal will assume full function and responsibility of the Office of the Prime Minister.
Meanwhile, the Opposition claimed last night that Kandep MP and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Mr Don Polye is still the Deputy Prime Minister because Mr Abal’s appointment was constitutionally flawed.
Sir Michael’s decision to step aside was expected but not as suddenly as last night. Earlier in the week, Sir Michael announced that he would vacate the office when a leadership tribunal was set up.
Acting Public Prosecutor Jimmy Wala Tamate referred the Prime Minister to Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia after 4pm yesterday asking him to establish a tribunal in reference to alleged non-lodgement of three annual returns.
A statement released by the Prime Minister’s media unit said while the Supreme Court had yet to give the PM an opportunity to be heard on his reference, the Public Prosecutor had proceeded to make a referral.
The PM respected the due process and would continue to avail himself to the hearings. Sir Michael had not been given an opportunity as a citizen and a PM to be heard since the filing of his substantive case in 2008 until today, the statement said.
“Equally over the past few days, no judges had been assigned or availed themselves to hear his application for an injunction,” the statement said.
“This is gross injustice to any citizen who is deprived of their basic right to be heard in a competent forum.”
Sir Michael Somare steps aside
14.12.2010
Source: The National
PM steps aside
PRIME Minister Sir Michael Somare yesterday stepped aside to face allegations of misconduct in office, but not before firing a broadside at the judiciary that he is a victim of “gross injustice”.
Leader of government business Paul Tiensten fired a similar salvo later in the afternoon, saying that the judiciary could not force the legislator to recall parliament over the appointment of a new governor-general following the June 25 debacle.
And, last night, for the first time in its history, PNG had an acting governor-general, acting prime minister, acting speaker – all ordered by the court – and an acting chief justice in coming days when Sir Salamo Injia goes on holiday.
In major developments yesterday, and since the Supreme Court nullified Sir Paulias Matane’s appointment last Friday:
*Sir Michael’s lawyers failed
to obtain and prevent the public prosecutor from moving to appoint a tribunal;
*Deputy Prime Minister and Wabag MP Sam Abal took over as acting prime minister; and
*Attorney-General Sir Arnold Amet said any decisions on instruments signed by Sir Paulias since June 25 were binding. In other related developments:
*Tiensten said any early recall of parliament would only be for the appointment of a new governor-general;
*Opposition leader Sir Mekere Morauta insisted that the opposition would pursue its no-confidence agenda; and
*Public Service Minister Moses Maladina urged the judiciary, legislator and executive to prevent a constitutional crisis.
Sir Michael said he was voluntarily stepping aside so that a leadership tribunal could hear allegations that he failed to lodge three annual financial statements in the 1990s.
It came hours after his lawyers failed to obtain an injunction at the Waigani National Court to prevent the public prosecutor from moving to appoint a tribunal.
He said in a statement that he was the victim of gross injustice because there had not been a judge available to hear his application for an injunction in the past few days.
Sir Michael also said he had filed a challenge against his referral to the prosecutor in the Supreme Court two years ago but he had not been given his day in court.
The 74-year-old East Sepik Regional MP said he was stepping aside so that the tribunal could take place unhindered and he could work to clear his name.
13.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Europe happy with PM
By GOROTHY KENNETH
European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper (ESBC) President Axel G Sturm said on Tuesday in Vientiane (Laos) that he was satisfied to hear from Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare that he will also support the re-opening of the Panguna mine in central Bougainville.
Last weekend the PNG Prime Minister announced the resuming of mining in one of the world’s hugest copper, gold and silver mines during the PNG resource conference in Sydney.
“This visionary statement shows to me that still at 74 years-old, Sir Michael is still the shining leader of PNG who knows when the time has come to intervene," said Mr Sturm.
“Only a few weeks ago I have asked Sir Michael in a letter if he kindly could give support to this long outstanding issue. Now the time has come and he decided to act in that very positive way."
The ESBC President considers the actual political constellation as ideal.
“The Grand Chief, assisted by his Ministers Fidelis Semoso, Arthur Somare, Peter O’Neill and Paul Tiensten, together with his old friend, ABG President John Momis, are the "dream team" to bring things forward in Bougainville.
The re-opening of the Panguna mine will bring PNG into the first row of the world’s base metal suppliers.
Furthermore the credibility of PNG as an interesting place for secure future investment will be improved sensibly."
Mr Sturm said "the Grand Chief Somare’s initiative will help to bring peace and prosperity to Bougainville.
Mr Sturm is convinced that not only the Panguna landowners but also all Bougainvilleans will be very grateful for this.
"We, the European shareholders of Bougainville Copper are happy,” said Mr Sturm.
13.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
PM believes PNG will do well
By MOHAMMAD BASHIR
Love him or loathly him, Sir Michael Somare’s name and face is synonymous with Papua New Guinea.
With his trade mark sulu and goatee, he is one of the Pacific’s most distinctive political figures and the longest serving politician in the Commonwealth. During the recent PNG Mining and Petro-leum Conference in Sydney, Sir Michael perhaps gave the surest indication yet that he would retire after building the right foundations for PNG. In his concluding remarks, the veteran politician said: “It has been a long time, some four decades, since I led PNG to independence. There was a great deal of euphoria at the time and we did not foresee many of the difficulties that lay ahead.” He said PNG’s darkest hour came with the Bougainville conflict where many parties have had to shoulder blame for the unfortunate event, including the National Government.
It was a setback from which Bougainville and the nation has not fully recovered but work was well underway to restore the damages of those years.
“When I first took office in those early years, very few of my Cabinet colleagues - indeed people in the country - had received a university education. Until recent times government revenues were inadequate for our infrastructure and service needs. This situation has begun to change in the last five or six years. But much catching up is still needed in terms of building and renovating rundown hospitals, schools and other infrastructure.
“When I leave office after these two terms, we will have in place a new generation of leaders who are capable of taking this nation forward.”
Under his guidance, the new crop of leaders have delivered a very ambitious LNG project. They have negotiated a benefits sharing agreement that takes into consideration landowners in the project areas as well as the rest of the country. They renegotiated additional profits tax to ensure that when oil prices climb to record heights any profit windfalls will be equitably shared by the project’s developers and people of PNG. Revenues from LNG will underwrite many of PNG’s social and economic programs over the next three decades.
“The new generation of leaders have delivered clear and detailed plans to guide this nation forward. I am very pleased with the task that has been undertaken,” he said. The 2011 National Budget will start the new development process and set specific targets for better delivery of services. “Having said all these, I would like to finish by saying that I feel entirely confident that the foundation set by my government will augur well.”
13.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Bougainville signs MOUs with China
By GORETHY KENNETH
BOUGAINVILLE is now in preparation to implement several of the Memorandum of Understandings signed in China during a recent trip by its President John Momis and his 34-member delegation last month.
The Bougainville leadership under Mr Momis had been asked on several occasions to table the MOUs signed in China.
Some of the agreements signed were between the:
* ABG (of the Independent State of PNG) and AVIC International Holding Corporation of China. The signing was between Zhengxiang Fang (Jason Fong), chairman of the Timeview international and Mr Momis on November 2 for the establishment of an airline owned by the ABG and the purchase contract of Y12 commuter and H425 helicopter for operation in Bougainville;
* ABG (PNG) and Hunan Hydro and Power Design Institute of the Ministry of Water Resources of the People’s Republic of China and Timesview International Group.
Mr Momis signed this MOU with Zheng Quan Zhang, the president of Hunan Hydro power and Zhengxiang Fan (Jason Fong), chairman of the Timeview international to develop the power supply industry in the region and parties agreed to establish a joint venture company involved in development of all electric power supply systems in the ABG; and
* ABG and the Shanghai Minqing Chamber of Commerce. The chairman of this Chinese institution, Sunhong Chan, signed the agreement with President Momis which was witnessed by Zhengxiang Fang (Jason Fong), chairman of the Timeview international for an invitation to visit Bougainville to explore a joint venture shipping company with the ABG.
09.12.2010
Source: Platts
PNG PM says Bougainville copper mine could reopen after 20 years
Melbourne (Platts),
Work to reopen the world-scale Bougainville copper mine after a 20-year hiatus can potentially begin within two years, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Michael Somare was reported as saying Monday.
Restarting operations will cost an estimated $4 billion, Australian media quoted Somare as saying at the opening of the PNG Mining and Petroleum Investment conference in Sydney.
The Panguna mine on PNG's eastern island of Bougainville shut down in May 1989 after sustaining damage during a secessionist uprising in which the issue of how income from the mine should be distributed was a key factor.
Bougainville's local media reported Monday that an agreement paving the way for the reopening of the mine had been reached with local landowners over the weekend.
"We are very satisfied on the meeting's outcome," the president of shareholder association European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper or ESBC, Axel Sturm told Islands Post's online edition. "This gives Bougainville the chance to recover financially from all suffering in the last 20 years."
The shuttered project is owned by Australia-listed Bougainville Copper Limited, or BCL, which remains active, and is in turn is owned 53.58% by Rio Tinto, 19.06% by the government of Papua New Guinea and 27.36% by public shareholders, according to the company's website.
The mine produced concentrate containing 3 million mt of copper, 299 mt (10.5 million oz) of gold and 763 mt of silver between commencing operations in 1972 and the end of 2008, representing 45% of PNG's exports over that period, BCL said in its 2008 annual report.
It produced 552,012 mt of concentrate containing 165,957 mt of copper, 13,862 kg (488,968 oz) of gold and 48,414 kg of silver in full-year 2008, its final full year of operation, according to the report.
--Wendy Wells, newsdesk@platts.com
09.12.2010
Source: ESBC Research
Uncertainty on Sir Michael's Political Future Strikes BCL Stocks hard!
A German broker's experience says: "Political stock markets have short legs". In so far the actual turmoil that made BCL shares fall nearly ten per cent for a short while today due to uncertainty on the political future of Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare, has to be considered as a hysteric reaction of some few market participants. With or without PM Somare: The Panguna mine, owned by Bougainville Copper Limited, will be re-opened because it's the wish of the Panguna landowners, the Autonomus Bougainville Government and the people of Bougainville who want to achieve a better life in future.
09.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Drop arms, says Eluh
By Gorethy Kenneth
THE war is over and Bougainville does not need arms anymore, says Bougainville top cop Thomas Eluh.
He also warned that Bougainville does not need a marijuana-infested society.
He said alcohol consumption is at its highest and the issue is causing a great concern for the leadership on the island, including the police.
Mr Eluh, who is trying his best to rid the island of arms, said the general population is already fed up and wants peace and harmony to prosper.
He said business houses also want peace and harmony to proper and grow their businesses and operate in peace. He said apart from arms and marijuana, liquor is also a major setback to Bougainville’s economic prosperity.
“And there are still some elements of cargo cults...these are sort of things I see as impediments to progress in Bougainville,” Eluh said.
“We have reasons to save Bougain-ville, the war is over, why do we continue to hold arms? People are still struggling for peace and harmony.
“There’s no reason why we should still be holding guns. I appeal for the general public to realise this and my important question is: Where to from here? The absence of guns with in the community will really help Bougainville move forward.
“I believe strongly that it’s all about change of attitude, its individuals. We can’t wait for someone to come and change us. For those still holding onto firearms, please, I am appealing to every Bougainvilleans to change. You see Arawa is now a very peaceful town because the people took it on themselves to sort themselves out. Why can’t we do the same here in Buka and Buin?”
08.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Donor Happy
By Aloysius Laukai
Meanwhile the happy donor JOHN CUSSEN told New Dawn FM from EUROPE last night that he was very happy to see that his donation has finally become a reality.
He said that he was a volunteer at Asitavi in 1973 and his job was to build the library.
He said that he was only a kid of 22 yrs with no real experience. It was a huge challenge but with the help of the local Marist brothers and the local lads we did the job and he was proud to see that despite all the troubles it is still standing.
MR. CUSSEN said that he had organized the computers some time back through Peter Bana and Susan Kelly and had not heard anything from anybody for ages .
He said that Only yesterday he had sent a mail to Susan Kelly to say that he was disappointed that it had all gone flat as he had so many plans for the school
Then out of the blue came your fantastic story. What a surprise !!
MR.CUSSEN thanked New Dawn FM for its part in getting out the news to him yesterday.
He says that he now hopes that we can bring Asitavi into the new world.
Pictured is John Cussen's Library building as he says built in 1973 and still standing after the 20 years of fighting on Bougainville. AL
08.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Awareness
BY SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
Caption Constable Lesley Meten visited New Dawn FM earlier today. He did a live broadcast awareness reminding the public to take extra precautions during this festive season. He said many people don’t know the true meaning of Christmas thus celebrate with alcohol. He urged drivers to be mindful in seeing that the trucks are not overloaded plus they must not drink and drive. Mr Meten on behalf of the Bougainville Police Service thanked the communities for their continuous support towards maintaining law and order in the region.
08.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
ASITAVI MOU
By Aloysius Laukai
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between KAGU COMMUNICATIONS AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS a local IT company and the Board of Asitavi High school on the service and maintenance of the Communication systems launched yesterday.
Under this MOU Kagu communications will look after the service and maintenance of these facilities making it another first such arrangement to service such facility on Bougainville.
Manager of Kagu Communications, PETER BANA when making his comments after the MOU said that ASITAVI high school had made the right decision on the upkeep of these facilities.
He said that many communication Vsats set up all over Bougainville by various groups have deteriorated because the Service and Maintenance part was not included.
Pictured is Kagu Manager PETER BANA signing the MOU whilst the Headmistress (left) is watching and the Chairman(right) is also present.
08.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Momis clarifies meeting report
By Peterson Tseraha
Autonomous Bougainville Government President John Momis said yesterday he welcomed a meeting last week by landowner representatives from the six mine lease areas of the Panguna mine.
“I welcome the meeting of the landowner representatives. At the same time I must clarify some issues that have been mis-reported since the landowner meeting.”
“It has been reported that this was the first time in six years that all six mine lease holders have met, this claim is totally untrue.”
“In fact the Bougainville administration has organised several meetings of landowner representatives from all six lease areas.
“The meetings began in 2009, and have continued in 2010, with large meetings held at Panguna in March and July.”
Mr Momis said these meetings were held at the direction of the ABG to consult landowner communities about organising themselves to be effectively represented in the process of reviewing the Bougainville Copper Agreement.
“The first formal step in the process to review the copper agreement has also been taken by the ABG,” Mr Momis said.
“That was in a letter I sent to Prime Minister Somare, formally requesting the national Government to initiate the review process, so far the Prime Minister has not yet responded to my request.”
Mr Momis said in spite of the silence by the national government, the ABG has continued to work to prepare for the review process.
That is why the ABG has directed the Bougainville administration to organise the landowners so that they are represented in the review process.
“As a result of meetings organised by the Bougainville administration, the people in each of the six mine lease areas decided many months ago that they wanted separate associations, one to represent each lease area,” Mr Momis said. “They also agreed to consult amongst themselves on the structures of each of the proposed associations.
“Bougainville administration lawyers have held two rounds of consultations with communities, which had resulted in the preparation of draft constitutions for each proposed association. As a result the work of preparing to establish the six associations is almost complete.”
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
VSAT
Picture of the Vsat set up at Asitavi High School
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
LUNCH TIME
Students had buttered bread for lunch
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
STUDENTS
Students watch as the computers were demonstrated at the communication room.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
TSIGUL
Kieta students performing Tsigul at today's launching.
Picture by Aloysius Laukai
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
HM
Headmistress of Asitavi Girls High School Elaine Baris speaking at today's launching.
She called on Kagu communication to be considerate in billing the School as they do not have monies for paying for such expensive services.
The Manager for Kagu Communications, PETER BANA also commented the School for having such facilities. He said the School now can have uptodate information for student's learning.
On the bill, MR BANA said that their charges would be very minimal.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
ASITAVI FIRST
By Aloysius Laukai
The only ALL Girls High school on Bougainville today became the first High School on Bougainville to have access to Internet and Telephone Communications thanks to a donation from a European donor who used to work at the School some years back.
The Vsat communications were donated by John Cussen and was installed and commissioned by a local Telecommunication company Kagu Communications at the School today.
The Chairman of the Schools Board of Governors, JOE PAIS thanked MR. CUSSEN for his donation towards capacity building of the school.
MR. PAIS said that the School used to be one of the premier schools before the Bougainville conflict and rebuilding capacity of the School would greatly help the school return to its former stage.
The Chairman also appealed for more donations from other donors and former students as all its buildings and equipments are all rundown.
This reporter was taken for a tour of the School’s facilities and further confirms that the school is in dire need of assistance.
Today’s launching of the Schools communication system saw the test of three computers which are connected to the internet and four telephone lines.
Picture of Kagu Communication Manager Peter Bana cutting the Ribbon.
(right) (Left is Chairman Joe Pais and centre is Community Leader SBasiou
Picture by Aloysius Laukai
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Kamarau International gives
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
Students and teachers from Kamarau International School in Buka today visited Buka General Hospital.
The aim of the visit was to share the spirit of charismas to those children who could not be fortunate enough to spend Christmas at home.
Students brought gifts and presented children in the different wards of the hospital.
A spokes person told New Dawn FM News that the event was an annual event and that it was a time students and teachers took to share the Christmas spirit.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
OBE in Bougainville
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
The outcome based education system which was newly introduced into Bougainville recently has caught a lot of criticism.
Many teachers in Bougainville have expressed concern over the new system saying that Bougainville is not ready.
The outcome based education system is a system where learning is based on the student’s academic outcome and the student’s independent learning.
The previous system saw learning as a one way thing as teachers spoon-fed students.
However the new system which requires the student to obtain additional knowledge on a particular subject independently will require additional resources such as a well up to date library and if possible research tools such as the internet.
This however is not possible for many schools in the region.
Principal of Hutjena Secondary Martin Takali while speaking at the schools graduation says that Bougainville is not yet ready for the OBE and that the implementation had a negative effect on students.
He says with the limited resources the school had students weren’t able to fully utilize the concept.
A call has been made to review the OBE system and if possible its removal from the schools in Bougainville where it has been implemented.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Archbishop on Callan Services
By Joyce Tohui
A call has been made to the people of Bougainville to support the work of Callan Services.
Bishop of the Bougainville Catholic Diocese, Bernard Unabali says Callan Services was established through Christian faith to serve the ministry of Christ and not for social work.
Bishop Unabali says through Christian faith God’s preference goes straight and foremost to the poor and not so called ability and that is a normal kind of work God does in helping people.
He says helping persons with disability is a way of alleviating poverty in the world.
Mr. Unabali says persons with disabilities are not liabilities however they are gift with special needs given by God in the society.
Meanwhile Archbishop Unabali says this kind of work by Callan Services originated in Ireland some 200 years ago and later spread throughout the world by a group called Christian Brothers of the schools founded by Edmond Rice.
He adds that similar services are provided in New Zealand, Australia and PNG.
In PNG these centers are in Rabaul, Wewak and located in many Catholic Dioceses in the country and centers in Bougainville are Hahela and Arawa.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Awareness in Central Region
By Joyce Tohui
An awareness is being carried out in Central Bougainville to get the views of people on MOU’s signed by the ABG in a recent trip to China.
The awareness program is initiated by veterans in the Central region who were part of the official delegation to China.
Women’s representative for Central Bougainville, Joan Jerome says the awareness aims at making known to the people of the Central region of the Memorandum of Understandings signed between the ABG Government and various companies in China before the implementation of Agreements can take place.
She says people of Central Bougainville are excited having heard of the MOU’s signed however they must fully understand them before work can proceed.
Ms. Jerome says the awareness team comprises of members representing all districts in Central and is working in partnership to deliver proper message to the people.
The Central Women’s Rep says there has been a lot of good feed back from the communities in the area.
She says during the awareness many raised concerns on the safety of the Environment saying that projects must be environment friendly.
Meanwhile Similar Awareness in South Bougainville has also started.
The people of South Bougainville want to swing into major Agricultural projects which Likui Trading has already started in Siwai.
They would want to go into large scale Rice farming and other products.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Traditional medicine
By Tapo Tovilu DWU Journalism student
A new project aimed at preserving and systemizing traditional medicine has been started by the Catholic Diocese in Bougainville.
Coordinator of the program Stephanie Stroeble from Horizon 3000 says that research has shown that during the crisis herbal medicine proved very effective in treating illnesses and diseases.
She says the program was started because the older generation of herbalists are dieing with out passing their knowledge of traditional medicine to the young generation.
They are currently running workshops on teaching and improving the knowledge of herbal medicine to youths in Bougainville.
Stroeble says the main area which the health program is concentrating on is on basic health care.
07.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
A GRAND OPPORTUNITY
By Tom Kathoa
The adjournment of parliament to May next year and the fast approaching Christmas and New Year festive seasons is a great opportunity for our leaders to attend to end of school celebrations in their respective electorates.
The Member for North Bougainville and Minister for Higher Education Science and Technology, Hon Michael Ogio does not want the opportunity to slip by.
Already, the Minister has attended to some of these activities starting with the ordination of a young man in the Hagogohe area into the priesthood.
Two more ordinations have been scheduled for this weekend and the following week to be conducted at Lemanmanu and Hahela Parishes in Buka respectively.
On Sunday, Minister Ogio visited the people of Gohi Village and today went to Soakela in the Sealu constituency.
Today the Member for North Bougainville attended the Grade 10 and 12 Graduation of students of Bishop Wade Secondary School.
Mr. Ogio will proceed on to Tinputz area on Friday to be guest speaker of Namatoa Primary School closing ceremony.
07.12.2010
Source: ESBC
ESBC press release 20101207
ESBC President Lauds Grand Chief
The President of the European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper (ESBC), Mr. Axel G. Sturm, stated on Tuesday in Vientiane (Laos) that he is very satisfied to hear from Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare that he also will support the re-opening of the Panguna mine in central Bougainville. Last weekend the PNG prime Minister had announced the resuming of mining in one of the world's hugest copper-, gold- and silver mines on a PNG resource conference in Sydney. "This visionary statement shows to me that still at 74 years old Sir Michael is still the shining leader of Papua New Guinea who knows when the time has come to intervene," said Mr. Sturm. "Only a few weeks ago I have asked Sir Michael in a letter if he kindly could give support to this long outstanding issue. Now the time has come and he decided to act in that very positive way." The ESBC President considers the actual political constellation as ideal: "The Grand Chief, assisted by his Ministers Fidelis Semoso, Arthur Somare, Peter O'Neill and Paul Tiensten, together with his old friend, ABG President John Momis, are the "dream team" to bring things forward in Bougainville. The re-opening of the Panguna mine will bring PNG into the first row of the world's base metal suppliers. Furthermore the credibility of PNG as an interesting place for secure future investment will be improved sensibly." Mr. Sturm says that " the Grand Chief Somare's initiative will help to bring peace and prosperity to Bougainville. Mr. Sturm is convinced that not only the Panguna landowners but also all Bougainvilleans will be very grateful for this: "We, the European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper, we are!"
07.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
BCL shares to help
THE State’s 19.06 equity interest in the Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) may end up with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) if Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare has it his way.
According to Bougainville President John Momis, Sir Michael has on several occasions discussed with him the question of disposal of the national government shareholding in BCL to the ABG.
“On every occasion the Prime Minister has proposed that the shares should be transferred to the ABG.
“The most recent occasion was in my meeting with him in Port Moresby on November 22, 2010,” Mr Momis said.
He said this when expressing concern about the lack of official feedback from the national government over ABG’s request for the prompt review of the pre-independence era Bougainville Copper Agreement. He said since taking over office in June 2010, priority was given to the issue of future mining activities on Bougainville. He said Cabinet had been fully informed about it since efforts were initiated under the former Tanis government which involved organising leaders from the six mining lease areas to be included in the review.
Mr Momis said in July this year that he officially wrote to the Prime Minister, prompting him to initiate the review which was officially stipulated under the 2008 memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by former deputy Prime Minister Sir Puka Temu.
He said in that letter he requested the national government and Bougainville administration to meet with BCL to begin planning for the review. Mr Momis expressed disappointment that he had not received any official feedback on his initiative, prompting him to write again in mid-November this year on the same matter.When discussing the lack of response, Mr Momis revealed his discussions with Sir Michael, saying the 76,430,809 shares were the States main tax and dividend revenue source from BCL between 1972 and 1989.
“I welcome and support this proposal from the Prime Minister,” he said in relation to the BCL shares.Transferring the shares to the ABG would only be fair. Revenue from the Panguna mine paid for the development of the rest of PNG from 1972 to 1989 but now the situation is different,” Mr Momis said.
07.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Sir Michael predicts unprecedented economic growth
PAPUA New Guinea yesterday expressed its most optimistic outlook for the future with bold predictions of major transformations taking place in the standard of living for the people.
Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare told leading international investors and multi-corporations the country’s way forward had been carefully mapped and PNG was now on the verge of reaping windfalls from the development of its natural resources.
He said this when delivering the keynote address on day one of the 11th PNG Mining and Petroleum Investment Conference in Sydney, Australia.
More than 1000 participants are attending the conference which is billed as PNG’s most precedent setting and its most ambitious yet due to the latest development achievements in the resources sector.
Sir Michael took the lead in focusing on the US$16 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project which he said would propel the economy to new heights and improve the social indicators significantly.
He said PNG’s participation was 19.6 per cent equity in the project.
He welcomed the Australian government’s assistance in the preparation of legislation for the sovereign wealth funds creating the Stabilisation, Future and Infrastructure Funds from LNG proceeds.
He said growth was 7.1 this year and as indicated in the 2011 budget would be 8 per cent “that will give us an unprecedented 10 successive years of economic growth.”
“This will give rise to confidence about rising prosperity and living standards and will place PNG among the fastest growing economies in the world,” he said.
“My government will ensure that PNG’s competitive edge will be strengthened and maintained.”
He assured investors of the continuation of political stability, fast tracking of licences and protection of the environment.
He announced two new government entities including Petroleum Resources Authority and the National Petroleum Company of PNG set up to reform and better stream line management of the resources sector.
“We could also witness the re-opening of the Bougainville copper mine at the cost of US$4 billion as well as the world’s first deep sea mining project of Nautilus,” Sir Michael said.
He said within two years three or more world scale mining operations could be under construction including Marengo Mining’s US$1 billion Yandera project and the US$5.3 billion Frieda River Xstrata and Highlands Pacific copper project.
07.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Big talk, people die
AS Papua New Guinea’s largest-ever investment conference got underway in Sydney yesterday, medical officers in Daru, Western Province, delivered a bitter and hard bill to swallow - more than 200 people have died of cholera in the province.
And this is from a province that boasts of one of the largest copper mines in the world which paid billions of Kina into government and the provincial coffers.
Latest reports reaching Port Moresby from Daru say more than 2000 cases have been reported through the VHF radio network. And in Sydney yesterday, Oil Search managing firector Peter Botten told a packed audience that his company has so far paid PNG a mammoth K11.931 billion in oil benefits between 1992 and 2009 without any indication of improvement in living standards. (see story inside).
There’s nothing to show for expenditure of all that money. “No significant appropriate improvements in living standards” had accrued to Papua New Guineans from billions of kina received by landowners, provincial governments and the national government as resource benefits since 1992, he said.
The 11th biennial conference organised by the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum is attended by PNG landowners, government ministers, provincial governors, public servants and international oil and gas industry delegates.
Mr Botten told the 11th Mining and Petroleum Conference that a total K11.931 billion had been paid out by his company to the national government, provincial governments and to landowners from 1992 to 2009.
The National Government received K8.796 billion in benefits for petroleum income tax, salary and wages tax, stamp duty, withholding tax and equity dividends. (see inside for more). Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare opened the conference. He said when the next conference opens in 2012, a new government will be in place.
By then three more world-scale mining operations will be under construction, among them Marengo Mining’s $US1 billion-plus Yandera project and Xstrate’s Frieda River project ($US5.3b).
Bougainville Copper Limited could also re-open the Panguna copper mine by then at the cost of about K11 billion.
He praised the Australian government for supporting the PNG LNG project with a $US500 million concessional finance and brushed aside criticism as being “totally misguided.”
He said the Australian companies involved in the LNG project have won contracts worth twice more than the concessional funding from Australian government.
He thank the Australians for also helping to create legislation to set up Sovereign Welfare Fund which created a Stabilisation Fund, Future Fund and Infrastructure Fund,
He also announced the creation of a Petroleum Resources Authority and the creation of a Petroleum National Company.
06.12.2010
Source: Mining Weekly
PNG looks to reopen Bougainville copper mine by 2012
SYDNEY, - Papua New Guinea hopes to reopen its huge Bougainville copper mine by 2012, two decades after secessionist violence forced it to close, and to play a bigger role in world copper markets, the nation's prime minister said on Monday.
"We could see the reopening of Bougainville at a cost of about $4-billion," Prime Minister Michael Somare told a Papua New Guinea investment conference in Sydney.
Papua New Guinea regularly talks up the prospect of the Bougainville mine reopening, but industry analysts now take this possibility more seriously, given rising investor confidence in the country and surging demand for the metal from Asia.
Bougainville's secessionist movement has also faded away.
"PNG is in the throes of becoming a major world supplier of copper," Somare told the conference, which serves as a regular investment roadshow for the country with Australian financiers.
In 1990, miner RTZ (now Rio Tinto ) closed the mine, one of the world's richest copper deposits, after angry villagers attacked workers and sabotaged mine operations.
World copper demand, especially from China, now represents an unprecedented opportunity for Bougainville, said Greg Anderson, head of Papua New Guinea's Chamber of Mines and Petroleum.
"There is a real appetite to get Bougainville up and running again as soon as possible," he told Reuters.
Copper on the London Metal Exchange fetches about $8,700 a tonne and gold $1 400 an ounce compared with $3 000 for copper and $450 for gold when the mine was abandoned.
The dormant, open-cut mine is owned by Bougainville Copper, which has retained its Australian stock-market listing. It in turn is owned 53,58% by Rio Tinto.
The stock firmed 0,6% to A$1,71 in afternoon trade, in a flat overall market.
The Bougainville rebellion was the longest-running conflict in the South Pacific, lasting 12 years from 1989 and leaving a death toll ranging from an official few hundred to a rebel tally of an estimated 15 000.
The rebellion fizzled out after a peace treaty was signed in 2001. Several of the key secessionist leaders have also died.
Rio Tinto has said that waste-disposal arrangements and funding would need to be addressed before restarting operations.
The mine has potential to annually produce 200,000 tonnes of copper and 400,000 ounces of gold, making it larger than BHP Billiton's Olympic Dam mine in Australia, the world's fourth-largest known copper deposit.
Sources familiar with the project said Rio Tinto had applied to the Papua New Guinea government for a fresh 21-year lease over the mine, known as Panguna.
But a Rio Tinto spokeswoman said Bougainville Copper did not have a timetable for reactivating the mine.
"There is a formal peace process underway and we are participating in that," she said.
Under the peace treaty, with granted autonomy to Bougainville island, the local government was expected to hold an independence referendum within 15 years, but there have been no more moves towards such a vote in recent years.
Papua New Guinea is rich in resources but has often struggled to exploit them due to endemic corruption, land ownership issues and poor infrastructure.
But investor confidence has been growing, culminating in oil giant ExxonMobil's recent decision to develop a $15-billion liquefied natural gas project in the country.
London-listed miner Xstrata Plc is also set to conclude a study in 2012 over development of its Frieda copper mine. The mine could yield 260 000 t of copper and 390 000 oz of gold a year in its first seven years.
06.12.2010
Source: Wirtschaftswoche
Friedbert Pflüger: Neue Metallgesellschaft
06.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Plans for wharf renovation
By Veronica Hannette
Renovation plans are underway for the wharf near the premises of Katsin Brothers Ltd.
Proposal plans have been submitted to donor agencies to assist in renovating the jetty which would cost 2 Million Kina.
Katsin Brothers Administration Manager, Greg Hivinis says, there is a need for renovations because the wharf needs to be better constructed to boost shipping activities.
He says the wharf was partially renovated by the Curtain Brothers in 2004 but is now corroding.
Mr. Hivinis told New Dawn Fm news that the jetty has been helpful especially when ships flood into Buka.
He adds that renovating would greatly assist because the jetty has been used since the civil crisis.
06.12.2010
Source: ABC - Australian Broadcasting Corporation
$US4 billion to reopen Panguna mine, says Somare
Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare presides over an unprecedented boom in Papua New Guinea mining. [AFP].
Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare, says he hopes the Bougainville copper mine can be reopened within two years.
He was speaking at the opening of the PNG Mining and Petroleum Investment conference, in Sydney, Australia.
The prime minister said reopening the Bougainville mine would cost about $US4 billion.
The Panguna mine was closed 20 years ago amid secessionist violence.
Pressure
But with demand for copper increasing, there is growing pressure to reopen the mine to exploit one of the world's largest deposits.
A record 1,100 delegates registered to attend the investment conference, with commodity prices high and PNG in the grip of a mining and gas boom.
The three-day event will see Sir Michael joined on the podium by all his key economic and resources ministers, as well as landowners and landowner companies.
Investors will hear updates on projects ranging from the $15 billion ExxonMobil-led PNG liquefied natural gas project and Xstata Copper's $5.3 billion Frieda River development.
Also to be covered were the Chinese-owned Ramu Nickel mine and well-advanced plans for the world's first seafloor mining.
06.12.2010
Source: REUTERS
PNG looking at re-starting Bougainville copper mine
By Bruce Hextall
SYDNEY, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Michael Somare said on Monday efforts could be underway within two years to reopen the Bougainville copper mine as the country looks to boost exports of copper.
"We could see the reopening of Bougainville at a cost of about $4 billion," Somare told an Australian investment conference on mining in Papua New Guinea.
The Panguna copper mine on Bougainville island was closed 20 years ago following secessionist violence, preventing further exploitation of one of the world's largest deposits.
The mine was previously operated by Bougainville Copper, 53.58 percent owned by Rio Tinto .
"PNG is in the throws of becoming a major world supplier of copper," said Somare.
The mine has the potential to operate an annual rate of 200,000 tonnes of copper and 400,000 ounces of gold, making it larger than BHP's Olympic Dam mine in Australia.
Sources familiar with the project said Rio Tinto had applied to the PNG government for a 21-year mining lease over Bougainville's Panguna mine.
A Rio Tinto spokeswoman said Bougainville Copper did not have a timetable for re-opening the Panguna mine.
"There is a formal peace process underway and we are participating in that," she said.
Rio Tinto's website states that Bougainville Copper had welcomed the support expressed by local landowners and would continue to work alongside them.
The company also said it was giving practical assistance to the processes of reconciliation and social stability.
Secessionist violence ended a decade ago after a peace treaty gave the island autonomy, but there has been little economic development since then.
Papua New Guinea is rich in resources but has often struggled to exploit them due to endemic corruption, land ownership issues and poor infrastructure.
The country is ranked 154th in the world in Transparency International's annual corruption index on a par with Congo and below Sierra Leone.
(Reporting by James Regan and Bruce Hextall; Editing by Ed Davies)
06.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
BCL shareholders happy
By GORETHY KENNETH
THE European shareholders of Bougainville Copper (ESBC) welcomed the breakthrough achieved by the Panguna landowners on their conference in Buka (Bougainville) : “We are very satisfied on the meeting’s outcome,” said ESBC president Axel G. Sturm on Sunday evening in Bangkok.
“This gives Bougainville the chance to recover financially from all suffering in the last 20 years.
“I am very grateful to the Minister of Bougainville Affairs, Fidelis Semoso that he finally pushed things cogently forward by organising this conference. We are also glad that the Autonomous Bougainville Government assisted this important act.”
Mr Sturm outlined that he appreciated very much Mr Semoso’s courage to face this sensitive issue without any prejudice or fear. The re-opening of the world class Panguna mine has been scheduled for the end of 2011.
“Next year will already bring giant investment to the island and many people who are jobless now will soon find work,” said Mr Sturm, “this makes me very happy especially for the young generation on Bougainville who will take benefit of the decisions on this historical weekend.”
05.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier Weekender
Ironing out differences
The Panguna mine landowners have come together last weekend to settle their differences and plans for a re-opening is brewing once all plans are in place. Parties give nod for mine to re-open
By Gorethy Kenneth
IT may take Bougainville several years to get back to where it used to be 20 years ago! Twenty years back, Bougainville could have been the Kuwait of the Pacific!
This is because of the once booming Panguna mine, which made PNG, Bougainville and the Pacific smile with its high flying life!
But it never did because leaders that were in power at that time did not work hard enough to save and make it happen.
But that is history now, 20 years later, after what’s left of Panguna since it was torched, closed and left to the dogs — is all rubble — the key players in the mine closure are now back on course and want it re-opened but with totally new deals on board.
The positive thing is that the once economic provider of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville for that matter, one that costs thousands of lives — the Panguna Copper mine may soon re-open if all goes well.
Last weekend, a significant meeting took place, which also caused a bit of a row within the ABG, but the landowners from the six mine lease affected areas came together in Buka to iron out their “grudges” and come together to make resolutions that will now form the basis of further negotiations for the hopeful historical re-opening. Bougainville Affairs Minister Fidelis Semoso was given a letter of request to host this meeting, which he did financially support.
ABG President John Momis defended his leadership claiming ABG has been working hard to get these landowners together — the problem has been that since then, there has not been any media involvement to make it known publicly that such was happening.
But as they say, that is history, the landowners under their six mine lease categories had successfully come up with resolutions that are now detailed as follows:
Special Mining Lease landowner communities
Resolutions:
* The ABG and the Regional Member for Bougainville in the PNG Parliament and Minister for Bougainville Affairs are requested to provide the funding needed to establish the six mine lease area associations and an umbrella organisation covering all people in the six mine lease areas, so that those bodies can represent the people of the areas in processes for review of the Bougainville Copper Agreement (BCA) and other negotiations about the future of the Panguna copper and gold mine
* BCL must pay all outstanding rent, royalty and compensation monies that are payable to landowners in the mine lease areas, together with interest accrued
* The ABG and the Regional Member are requested to fund the establishing and operation of an office for the umbrella organisation and for the six mine lease area organisations.
Upper Tailings Lease Landowner communities
Resolutions:
* The ABG and the Regional Member for Bougainville in the PNG Parliament and Minister for Bougainville Affairs are requested to provide the funding needed to establish the six mine lease area associations and an umbrella organisation covering all people in the six mine lease areas, so that those bodies can represent the people of the areas in processes for review of the Bougainville Copper Agreement (BCA) and other negotiations about the future of the Panguna copper and gold mine
* The ABG and the Regional Member are requested to fund and assist with all major obstacles to the unification of the people in the six mine lease areas
* BCL must pay all outstanding rent, royalty and compensation monies that are payable to landowners in the mine lease areas, together with interest accrued
* The ABG and the Regional Member are requested to fund the establishing and operation of an office for the umbrella organisation and for the six mine lease area organisations.
Lower Tailings Lease landowner communities
Resolutions:
* The ABG and the Regional Member are requested to fund:
* All major outstanding reconciliations that are continuing obstacles to the unification of the people in six mine lease areas and
* All steps (such as elections or other processes) needed to establish the six mine lease area associations
* BCL must pay all outstanding rent, royalty and compensation monies to landowners in the mine lease areas
* If an agreement is made for BCL to re-open the Panguna mine, there must also be an agreement for a Lower Tailings Lease company to manage the tailings generated by the mine and deposited in the lower tailings lease area
Statement of views of the Lower Tailings Lease landowners:
* Draw down of powers over mining and petroleum and their transfer to the ABG must be completed before the Panguna Mine re-opens
* No mining company except BCL should mine at Panguna and
* A completely new mining agreement must replace the BCA before mining is allowed to resume and it must accommodate all concerns and interests of the people of the six mine lease areas, as well as those of the people of Bougainville as a whole
Port Mine Access Road Lease landowner communities
Resolutions:
* The ABG and Regional Member should assist in every way possible with the registration and establishing of the six mine lease landowner associations and the umbrella organisation
* BCL must make a goodwill payment to the mine lease landowners before any recognition of the BCA
* The issues discussed with the ABG Mining Department in meetings over the past 12 to 18 months, (such as reconciliation issues and mining policy issues) must be re-visited through reports from and discussions with the Mining Department.Uruwa Lease Landowner communities
Resolutions:
* The landowners of the six mine lease areas must be included in any process for review of the BCA
* As he is Bougainvillean with extensive experience of the mining industry in PNG, Melchior Togolo should be a part of all negotiations about re-negotiation of the BCA
* There must be compensation package to cover past impacts of the mine
* The ABG and the Regional Member should fund offices for the umbrella organisation and the six new mine lease area associations and
* Before there is any mine re-start there must be a cleanup of all toxic chemicals in the mine lease areas.
Arawa Urban Lease landowner communities
Resolutions:
The Arawa, Loloho, Poraka Resource owners Association (ALPROA) has resolved that:
* Copies of the Siokate Lease Agreement must be made available to the landowner representatives (ALPROA) in preparation for the BCA review process
* Outstanding lease payments for the Siokate lease area dating back to 1988 together with accrued interests on the lease payments must be paid by the National Government
* Environmental and damage caused by or associated with the activities of BCL and damage caused by toxic chemicals used by BCL which have had impacts on the Arawa village people and which were not covered in the original BCA or in other agreements BCL made with landowners must be assessed and compensated to cover past damage and must also be covered in any future agreement and
* Information about value of resources must be made available in relation to areas where the situation or status of rents and compensation payable to the landowners or the situation of ownership of land is unclear and in particular the following land:
* Arawa Extension Lease area land
* Loloho bulk fuel storage land area; and
* Loloho Agriculture Lease area land.
The onus is now on both the ABG and the National Government including BCL to act on these demands if they really want Bougainville’s economic recovery take them back to be the Kuwait of the Pacific.
03.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Police to observe traffic
By SONIA KENU DWU Journalism Student
Member for Selau Hon Pastor Terry Mose has called on Bougainville Traffic Police to observe closely their traffic duties.
Pastor Terry said this in his speech to mark the International Disable Day which was celebrated today.
He says Bougainville people have an attitude of overloading trucks and many drivers are drinking and driving.
He says that car accidents also cause disability for people.
He adds that many people are born able, however, they cause disability for themselves through their attitude.
Meanwhile, Pastor Terry urged the people to treat the disable like any other person who has a right to live and access basic services.
03.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
BMA/DALTRON PARTNER
By Aloysius Laukai
A local Microfinance company, Bougainville Micro Finance Association, today opened its new IT showroom in Buka.
BMA support services which runs the IT shop selling mostly DALTRON ELECTRONICS products was able to showcase what it is offering to Bougainville customers.
Many speakers at today’s opening congratulated BMA for partnering with DALTRON ELECTRONICS to provide IT products and Training support to the region.
Daltron’s representative, ROB CHARD said that through this partnership DALTRON will provide training for BMA staff and also introduce other IT products at a cheaper rate.
Full operation of the office will commence on Monday.
03.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
KETSORE ORDAINED PRIEST
By Tom Kathoa
The number of Catholic Priests in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville is to be increased with the ordination of three young men into the priesthood this month.
The first such ordination will be conducted at Gogohe Parish for young deacon, Paterson Ketsore into the priesthood tomorrow.
The people of Gogohe Parish have been busy preparing for the occasion to be attended by political and church leaders.
The Archbishop of Bougainville, Bishop Bernard Unabali will be the main celebrant.
At the political level, the Member for North Bougainville and Minister for Higher Education Science and Technology, Hon Michael Ogio, the ABG President, John Momis and other leaders.
The Gogohe ordination would be followed by Lemanmanu on the 11th of this month with the last ordination to be conducted at Hahela Catholic Mission for a young man from South Bougainville into the priesthood.
03.12.2010
Source: The National
BCL shares soar
BOUGAINVILLE Copper Ltd’s share price has soared as talks to unite the landowners of the mine site under a single umbrella company proceeded.
If successful, the talks will streamline negotiations for the reopening of the mine in Bougainville.
According to Australian security exchange last Friday, the share price of the Rio Tinto-controlled company rose 4.08%, and on Monday 4.58%.
The shares had doubled in price since August and tripled since May, even though the mine had not operated for 21 years, the ASX stated.
The new president of the Autonomous Bougainville Government John Momis, told the media last week that discussions between landowners were going well.
“I am satisfied we are doing OK … we need to get the mine reopened … it will kick start developments in Bougainville,” Momis said.
The copper mine, at Panguna, provided about 20 % of government revenue during the 1970s and 1980s.
It closed in 1989 as the island disintegrated into civil war, in part due to disagreements about the mine’s impact and the way royalties were shared. Rio Tinto owns 53.58% of the company.
The PNG government has a 19.06 % stake, and the other 27.36% is held by public shareholders.
“With copper reserves estimated at almost three million tonnes and gold production in the range of 400,000 ounces per annum, Panguna is one of the world’s largest potential producers of both metals,” BCL, as quoted in the Sydney Morning Herald this week, said.
“It is expected that the Bougainville copper agreement renegotiation will be actively pursued towards the end of 2010.”
The company said market values for both copper and gold were higher than at the time of mine’s closure.
02.12.2010
Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville
Panguna Landowner shunned ABG
By Reuben Kalaung
A Panguna Mine landowner has called on the ABG President John Momis and his Mining Minister Michael Oni to fully support the six landowner groups in their bid to review the Bougainville Copper Agreement (BCA).
The landowner, who wants to remain anonymous, made the call after hearing comments made in the media by President Momis and Minister Oni.
The landowner says the duo must support a neutral leader like Bougainville Affairs Minister Fidelis Semoso, to assist landowner groups form the umbrella Panguna Mine Landowners Association, and in getting the BCA review off the ground.
The landowner also says Bougainville needs a united leadership, and all leaders must let go of their egos and meet the landowner groups at every round table discussions.
The landowner further says all Mine Lease Areas are committed to review the BCA and wants all leaders to come down from their ‘high chairs’ and practically support them.
02.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Boat, motor theft rising
By GORETHY KENNETH
AN organised crime racket has been uncovered in Bougainville, the region’s top cop Thomas Eluh has announced.
The racket involves thugs allegedly aiding and working with the so-called Me’ekamuis by stealing outboard motors, boats and other expensive electrical items and selling them across the Solomon Islands border.
Already ACP Eluh has warned all Bougainvilleans that there will now be a mechanism in place where an Agreement (MOU) will be signed between ABG and Solomon Islands to address these issues so that those stealing will no longer hide but will be arrested to face the full force of the law.
“There is now an organised crime racket which involves people who are into stealing outboard motors in Buka and taking them into the south part of the region for sale,” Mr Eluh said.
“I strongly appeal to the boat owners to please be extra cautious and they must be aware that there is a criminal racket. I have been told that Me’ekamui is involved, they steal the boats here in Buka and give away to the Me’ekamuis and they go and sell outside Solomon Islands and likewise those in SI steal there and come sell here. We have a serious problem if these Me’ekamuis are involved and I am sure there are genuine Me’ekamuis out there that are not involved. I challenge the Me’ekamui faction involved and those people stealing to refrain from stealing from our very own brothers and sisters, I think you should be ashamed of yourself.
“Me’ekamui should not tarnish its good name. These boats cost a lot of money and shame on you for stealing from your very own people who have worked hard to earn that boat.
“You should also work hard for your own boat instead of stealing from someone else’s sweat.
He said: “If you are a thief there is no room for you in Bougainville. Put yourself in the shoes of those you are stealing from, how are you going to feel?
“I’m just fed up of all these rubbish and I’m warning you, we will come for you. We are on the move to enter into an MOU and you won’t hide anymore. Enough is enough.”
ACP Eluh made these statement after several boats went missing over the weekend, one of which belonged to former Administrator, now deputy administrator operations, Patrick Koles, another for AGMARK, a long standing business in the region.
Eluh appealed to parents of those in Matsungan, Petats Islands Saposa, Sohano Island and nearby Novah to please discipline their young men and teach them no to steal from their brothers and sisters in Bougainville.
“Shame on them for stealing someone else’s sweat and hard work,” he said
02.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Panguna to be reopened
By Gorethy Kenneth
THE Autonomous Bougainville Government is waiting for a response from Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare for the National Government to initiate a review of the Bougainville Copper Agreement.
ABG President John Momis said in a statement to the media that he sent a letter to Sir Michael in July this year, formally requesting the National Government to initiate the review process of the Bougainville Copper Agreement. He said this in respond to reports about the meeting of Panguna mine lease landowners in Buka over the weekend.
“The first formal step in the process to review the Copper Agreement has also been taken by the ABG. That was in a letter I sent in July 2010 to Prime Minister Somare, formally requesting the National Government to initiate the review process. So far the Prime Minister has not responded to my request. In spite of the silence on the part of the National Government, the ABG has continued to work to prepare for the review process. That is why the ABG Cabinet has directed the Bougainville Administration to work with the mine lease landowners to help them organise themselves to be represented in the review process,” Mr Momis said.
But key PNG Government ministries like Bougainville Affairs Minister Fidelis Semoso, Mining Minister John Pundari, State Enterprise Minister Arthur Somare and responsible departmental heads said they have not sighted the letter to kick start the review process.
The National Government through the Mining Ministry and its responsible stakeholders like Attorney-General’s office and Planning have been waiting for an official letter from the ABG on the issue of the review of the BCA.
Mr Semosoalso does not have a copy of the letter and the PM’s office yesterday could not confirm nor deny having received the letter.
02.12.2010
Source: The National
Row over internet domain name
By PATRICK TALU
THE European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper (ESBC) has questioned a move by a Chinese industrial group to acquire “Bougainville copper” as their internet keyword.
Alex Sturm, ESBC president in a statement yesterday, questioned what China’s real intentions on Bougainville are after an email dated Nov 19 requested ESBC verification on the proposed internet keyword.
The email read: “This is a Network Service Co which is the domain name registration center in Hong Kong, China.
“On Nov.16, 2010, we received an application from MEIHUA Group requesting ‘bougainville-copper’ as their internet keyword and China (CN) domain names.
“But after checking, we find this name is in conflict with your company’s name or trademark. In order to deal with this issue better, it’s necessary to send this email to you and confirm with your company whether this company is your distributor or business partner in China. If you did not authorise, please let us know within seven working days, so that we will handle this issue better.”
Sturm had asked why a giant Chinese industrial group was so interested in acquiring the name of “Bougainville copper” for their own purpose.
“Why are they contacting the European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper and not our company itself or even better, Rio Tinto?
“What are the true intentions of this MEIHUA Group?
“The European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper had asked these questions to Linda Wang of Hong Kong China Technology Ltd, a domain provider, but did not get any response until now,” he said.
A search on the internet showed that MEIHUA Group is engaged in door manufacturing and in the production of monosodium glutamate, a flavour enhancer, using materials from corn.
02.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Training helps rural dwellers
By Veronica Hannette
A course participant at the recent Leadership Training Workshop in Buka has expressed disappointment at the lack of training given to people from constituencies like Nissan and the Atolls.
The concerned participant said while people of constituencies better served by a reliable road work were receiving all kinds of training, those from remote areas continue to miss out on such training opportunities.
She has called on the authorities to change the situation by providing leadership training to the less advanced areas of Bougainville like the Atolls.
The participant said now they are equipped with what they have learned and they will now be able to impart the acquired knowledge to people in their own areas.
Meanwhile, a participant from the Teua Constituency also expressed concerned that services were often accessed by those near towns and nearby areas and they never received any organised training like the one just ended.
02.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Perform to develop: Momis
By FABIAN HAKALITS
GRADUATING students of Hutjena Secondary School in Buka have been urged to work hard for the future of Bougainville.
Head of the School of Natural and Physical Science at the University of Papua New Guinea Professor Frank Griffin said this while delivering his keynote address at the 11th Grade 12 and 40th Grade 10 graduation held last Thursday.
The graduation held under the themed “Enhancing Moral Education for a Better Bougainville” saw 326 students graduating in flying colours, with 151 Grade 10s and 175 Grade 12s. Professor Griffin told the graduates that Bougainville needs good educated citizens to spearhead the Autonomous Government.
“The future of Bougainville depends on you young educated elites. You will be the leaders of tomorrow, contributing to the developments of this beautiful great region of Bougainville in an honourable manner, in an environment with a high moral standard with the best of ability, honest, integrity and diligence.
“If we all operate and perform in this manner, we will achieve a lot with satisfaction. There is no better feeling then to achieve your goals knowing that you have done so through honourable means,” said Professor Griffin.
He said education in the universal sense means it is acquiring of skills to make ourselves useful and competent in our environment of operation.
“There are also many other opportunities out there that the current development boom will bring so find your place in society and contribute to the development of Bougainville.
“In whatever you end up doing, I encourage you all to acquire specialised training programs that may bring both hands. But at the same time acquire life skills that will allow you to perform your duties with humility, honesty, transparency, ethically and with high morality. You have to seize the opportunities that come your way and make useful life for yourselves, your parents and families.” he said.
01.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Momis hits out at reports
AUTONOMOUS Bougainville Government President John Momis lashed out at the Post-Courier yesterday claiming that the paper’s reports on the Panguna landowners over the weekend were biased.
Mr Momis went on air through Radio Bougainville and New Dawn FM lashing out at the reports.
He was angry and particularly critical about the reports that for the first time in six years the six mine affected lease areas had come together to start negotiations towards the setting up of the umbrella group and the review of the Bougainville Copper Agreement.
The PLOs were very happy and commended Minister for Bougainville Affairs Fidelis Semoso for getting them together.
They also claimed they had lost hope in being stagnant at Panguna with nothing moving. But Mr Momis said ABG, both past and present Governments, were also working very hard to get the landowners together and that their major setback was finance.
Mr Momis said they were cash-strapped but were working very hard on the issue of the Panguna and BCL for that matter.
He warned all Bougainvilleans and particularly the landowners to be very careful about negotiations for the re-opening of the Panguna mine and advised that ABG would engage top advisers to advice on all the issues of the re-opening of the Panguna mine and all issues related to it.
01.12.2010
Source: Post-Courier
Power for Bougainville
By GORETHY KENNETH
BOUGAINVILLE’S multi-million kina hydro power plant stands to benefit from an Asian Development Bank loan that has been approved.
ADB has extended $120m in loans to Papua New Guinea for renewable energy facilities that will help the country meet electricity supply gaps in urban centres. The ADB board of directors has approved a multi-tranche financing facility for the Town Electrification Investment Program, which will contribute to the state utility PNG Power’s 10-year power development plan through to 2018.
It will fund, in two stages, renewable energy facilities, including run-of-river hydro power plants and transmission systems in about six provincial centres.
The first tranche of the investment program will support run-of-river hydro plants in Northern Province and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and a 66KV transmission line in West New Britain.
The transmission facility will provide access to about 1MW of spare generation capacity from the Lake Hargy hydro power plant, and up to 3MW of biomass-generated electricity from palm oil plantations.
The first tranche of the funding will include a loan of $40.9m from ordinary capital resources, and one of $16.4m equivalent from the concessional Asian Development Fund, with annual interest charges based on ADB’s LIBOR-based lending facility.
Collectively they will finance 80% of the first tranche cost of $71.6m, with the Government of PNG providing counterpart funds of $14.3m.
The full program is due for completion in December 2016, with first tranche activities finished by December 2013.
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