Chan applauds Sir Michael over climate change ministry

NAMATANAI MP Byron Chan has commended Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare for his efforts in establishing a ministry for Climate Change in the country.

He said while the world and especially those in the developed and developing countries including the Pacific continue to face frequent severe natural disasters and changing weather patterns,  climate change is a real threat that requires immediate and urgent action.

The MP who recently accompanied Sir Michael for climate talks in Norway said the Prime Minister had at least fulfilled his commitment to make ministry for climate change.

Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare

“This was part of the discussions made in Norway where ministers and presidents including Prince Charles agreed that in order for countries to reduce the impact of climate change, setting up of climate change ministry is a way to go,” MP Chan said.

He also noted that PNG must now prepare to reduce the impact of climate change as it is increasingly becoming a major social, economic and environmental challenge for PNG. 

“It is good to hear that PM has kept his words to put climate change a priority. Sir Michael’s effort to cause to champion the rainforest nations is being witnessed through the climate change office.

“The parliamentary committee on climate change must now take by-partisan approach to achieve the government’s ambitions,” Mr Chan said. 

He congratulated newly appointed minister for climate change Francis Potape and said this will further enhance the country’s capacity in negotiating with other countries and donors to benefit from funding assistance to meet PNG’s domestic programs.

“I’d like to congratulate the minister’s appointment and other ministers as well.”

Meanwhile, he further commended other MPs for maintaining decency and public order in the whole issue of vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister.

“The public this is the leadership issue. The whole nation is steady. That must be respected, the leaders represent the people, and people must respect the leaders to deliver basic services as well as welfare of the country as a whole.”