by Stanley Ove Jr – EM TV News, Port Moresby
Over 5,000 people have signed a petition for Health Minister, Michael Malabag, to intervene and assist the Paiam General Hospital in Porgera, Enga Province.
The hospital was closed earlier this month after outstanding funds of over K10 million were not released by relevant agencies to support the operational costs of the hospital.
The closure of the hospital has allegedly caused one death, and hundreds are now seeking medical treatment outside Porgera Valley.
Women leaders in Porgera are now calling on the National Government to assist, as this issue is affecting mainly women and children in Porgera.
The petition was presented to the Enga Provincial Health Authority and will be given to the National Government.
In the recent parliament sitting, Mining Minister, Byron Chan, announced a K2 million relief fund will be given to the hospital however; to date nothing has been received by the hospital.
Meanwhile Porgera Gold Operators, Barrick Gold gave a temporary K500,000 relief funds for the hospital.
