By Stanley Ove Jnr – EMTV News, Port Moresby
Mining Minister, Johnson Tuke has reassured the four landowner association of the Ramu Nico Project that they will receive their outstanding royalty payments as soon as procedural matters are executed by the relevant state authorities.
Speaking to landowner representatives, Minister Tuke said the matter has been dragged for too long, because officers have not been doing their jobs as expected.
This also includes the position of the Managing Director of the Mineral Resources Authority which Minister Tuke said once a permanent appointment is made, issues such as outstanding royalties can be addressed.
The Minister also announced he will visit the landowners and the people of Madang next week to attend to their needs.
Meanwhile, Ramu Nico Community Affairs Manager, Albert Tobe said the company is ready to pay royalties but is waiting for the state to give the clearance.
