The Papua New Guinea Defense Force is expected to undergo major reforms in the coming years.
Among the changes to be instituted is to change the Defence Force Retirement Benefit Funds Act from a defined Fund to accumulative fund.
This will ensure servicemen and women benefit significantly when they retire or leave the force.
The announcements were made today during the passing out parade.
Minister for Defense, Dr. Fabian, was present to review the parade and he described it as outstanding, attributing it to the quality of training imposed on the graduates by the instructors.
He also urged the soldiers to uphold discipline both on and off duty. Poor discipline has tarnished the reputation of the force and it must not become a norm, he said.
Shortage of uniforms and field equipment is also a major problem.
Dr. Pok said that this will be addressed through the establishment of a PNGDF supply system to consistently supply quality uniforms and field equipment to soldiers.
An infrastructure upgrade will also be a priority, with separate barracks to be set up for the PNGDF Long Range Recon Unit.
These upgrades are vital for national security in the lead up to international events such as the 2015 Pacific Games and the 2018 APEC Leaders’ summit.
In keeping with the defense white paper, the Goldie River training depot infrastructure will be upgraded to increase capacity of intakes to 300.
This will in turn allow for PNGDF to meet its target of 5000 soldiers by 2017.
The issue of retirement benefits that has plagued the force will also change.
A submission is before NEC to review the Defense Retirement Benefit Fund Act and Dr. Pok expressed commitment in ensuring it is delivered by the end of the year.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ap2KdtbhX3s%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
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