MRA MD says tribal fighting in Enga has nothing to do with CDA

Mineral Resources Authority [MRA] Managing Director Jerry Garry has brushed aside claims by the Member for Wabag, Hon Dr Lino Tom, that fighting in the Porgera Valley is a consequence of the non-implementation of the Porgera Project Community Development Agreement [CDA].

Mr Garyy says lawlessness and fighting currently occurring is a social and law & order issue.

“It has nothing to do with the CDA process that is currently underway in Port Moresby,” Mr Garry said.

Fighting in the Porgera Valley initially had started between two illegal miners from Kandep and Laiagam districts respectively, over gold that they had mined illegally in the pit.

The fight quickly escalated into local villages that host the two illegal miners, resulting in the involvement of the wider communities.

The managing director says all stakeholders involved in the CDA process are currently negotiating benefits which would be completed soon.

He further explained that the permitting of operations of mines and the CDA processes are two different processes that can run in parallel.

"In this case, the Porgera Mine has been operating for some time, and while the mine is operating, it is normal practice for parties to the CDA to negotiate benefits," Mr. Garry said.

He added that the CDA process also addresses the relocation of the Special Mining Lease [SML] landowners from the SML area, an issue raised by Dr. Lino.

The MD says the CDA process involves only the government-sanctioned and recognized parties under the Organic law on Provincial Government and Local Level Government.

Mr Garry has conveyed his condolences and sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives.