NCD Governor on Paga Hill casino

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has flagged a number of issues surrounding the proposed multi-million- kina casino development on Paga Hill, in Port Moresby.

Mr. Parkop replying to questions from this newsroom said he was not in Port Moresby at the time of the groundbreaking ceremony, which happened early this month.

Governor Parkop, who is the chairman of the National Capital District Commission [NCDC] Physical Planning Board is aware of a letter from the National Gaming and Control Board regarding the illegality of the construction of the casino, and that he’d made known to the Government and developer that there are three requirements that needed to be met before the opening of the casino.

“One, proper license by National Gaming and Control Board. Secondly, physical planning, and thirdly, building board.

“On the part of the physical planning and building board, I'm the chair, [they will have to get approval from the physical planning board]. It's a prerequisite.

“But, I mean, this is a question that is out there. I prefer that we keep it short,” Parkop said.

Meanwhile, a letter by National Gaming Control Board [NGCB] chief executive officer, Imelda Agon to the NCDC Building Board revealed outdated and incorrect information supplied to the board for the issuance of this license.

Ms. Agon requested that the NCDC Building Board review its decision and not issue any further permits for the building until verification of good standing and validity of a license has been confirmed by the gambling regulator in writing.

Prime Minister James Marape who officially launched this project while responding to criticisms is adamant that revenue from the casino will be good for the economy and “its operations will be strictly regulated”.

NGCB Chairman Clemence Kanau reiterated what PM Marape said; “actually, the prime minister responded to that question, and I think it was publicized a couple of days ago, immediately when the issue was raised.”

NBC News is seeking comments from the developer.