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By: Malinda Yoppolo
The National Library and Archives in Port Moresby has been closed to the public since November last year due to the failure of contractors involved in the restoration and reconstruction of the library to be paid on time.
The boss of Koe-Ebi Resource Limited, John Karius Gane (pictured), has for the second time expressed his dissatisfaction to the media over the remuneration for the restoration and reconstruction of the library.
Mr Gain is one of 150 contractors who have worked on the contract since 2013.
Since then, about 20 contractors have died while waiting for payment.
“How can we deny children the right to use libraries? Secondly, archives which hold important historical documents that many Papua New Guineans need to access. This is denying many Papua New Guineans the right to use libraries,” he said.
Ghan said the closure of the libraries would affect the government’s ‘No Child Left Behind’ policy as students in the capital would lose access to libraries.
Delayed payment of work has had a serious impact on contractors and their families.
Mr. Gane said these contractors are small and medium-sized enterprises that also contribute to the country’s economy.
“I appeal to the Minister of Finance. I saw one of your speeches on the news last week, saying that you are here to help communities and families keep the economy flowing. I was delighted by your speech. That is why I appeal to you to authorize your secretary to process our payments. We will use this money to boost the economy of this country.”
Mr. Gane said the contractor would not open the library until it received the money it was due.
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