By Lucy Kopana – EMTV News, Lae
Assistant Commissioner Police (ACP) Northern Command Peter Guinness, is calling on PNG Power and Water PNG to assist in completing the Bumbu Housing Projects, by connecting the water and power supplies.
Mr Guinness confirmed that the delay was due to outstanding bills however, saying the Department depends on the Government to settle outstanding payments.
“They are claiming that the police department owes them so much amount of money in terms of electricity and water bill. I understand, but they to must understand that we are service providers. The police department does not make money… Whenever there is funding, the police department pays.”
ACP Guinness said because of the delay, the RPNGC is not able to house more officers at the Bumbu Barracks. This has resulted in the single quarters now being occupied by officers and their families.
Mr. Guinness says the lack of housing for officers may lead to a shortage of manpower in Lae’s Metropolitan and Regional Command’s affecting operations.
“We cannot bring in new members from recruits that pass out from Bomana to come to Lae because we do not have the accommodation. If we can free up single quarters and move the members into the married accommodation, then we can free up space and take in new members to come to Lae.”
Because the houses will have user pay water and power services connected, Mr Guiness is calling on PNG Power and Water PNG to assist the RPNGC to complete the the project.
