Goodenough Island gold exploration sparks concern from local MP

Kiriwina-Goodenough MP and Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa has raised concerns in Parliament over reports that up to 80 to88 percent of Goodenough Island contains gold, prompting mining wardens from the Mineral Resources Authority [MRA] to move in and identify potential mining sites without informing provincial or district authorities.

Tomuriesa said the sudden increase in exploration activity has caused fear among local communities who rely heavily on their land and environment for their livelihood.

“Now you went exploring more areas where people have enjoyed the benefits of their land for a long, long time,” he said. “Now all of a sudden you get people [mining wardens] going in there to conduct meetings. That will affect the livelihood of our traditional landowners. And the flora and fauna, the beautiful rivers there, will be destroyed.”

He said more than 30,000 people live on Goodenough Island and depend on cocoa, marine resources and their natural environment. Tomuriesa said many communities are isolated and need proper notice before any official meetings or consultations take place.

He called on the government for strong assurance that locals will be represented and that the environment will be protected.

"I want some assurance from the Prime Minister that our people of Goodenough will be given fair representation,” he said. “And that mining will not destroy that beautiful part of our world.”

Prime Minister James Marape said he was not aware of the visits by mining wardens but committed to providing a report to Tomuriesa.

He reminded officials that any exploration or resource activity must follow the law and be carried out in close consultation with local authorities and in the best interests of landowners.