Emergency funds questioned

Concerns have been raised in parliament about emergency funds for vital infrastructure repairs.

Member for Wewak Open, Stanley Muts Samban, asked for reports on several key roads in the province that were damaged due to heavy rains.

His question was directed to the Minister for Works and Highways, Peter Tisamalili Junior.

The Wewak MP noted that while the responsibility lies with the provincial government and district, their limited funds have affected repair works along the east and west coast.

He asked the Minister for Works and Highways, Peter Tsiamalili Junior on whether emergency funds are available to assist in such situations.

In response ,Tsiamalili Junior attributed most infrastructure challenges like roads and bridges to the current unprecedented weather patterns.

Similar concerns were raised by Member for Dei, Desmond Kipa, over three vital bridges in his electorate that were recently washed away by heavy rains.

In a supplementary question, he asked the Works Minister about the availability of emergency funds.

In response, the Works Minister confirmed that emergency funds do exist, but they are only accessible when a State of Emergency is formally declared.