Commissioner of Police David Manning, says the National Pandemic Act is still in force, and the directions he issued recently as the Controller of the National Pandemic Response were critical to enable the national recovery process, and remain in force.
The Commissioner said his direction is intended to ensure that the country’s transportation systems, and emergency and essential services functions can continue uninterrupted.
“While the immediate health response has abated, our country continues to recover from the broader impacts of the pandemic. The National Pandemic Act 2020 remains in force, and as Police Commissioner and Controller of the National Pandemic Response, I will continue to execute these duties as required by law” Mr Manning said.
“The national recovery focus has moved on from the immediate health aspect of the pandemic, but effective supply chains for medical supplies and our health services remain crucial as we transition our national systems through the pandemic recovery. I will continue in this mandated role to do whatever is required to assist in furthering that effort.”
Commissioner Manning was responding to media reports in which the Member for Vanimo Green, Hon. Belden Namah, MP, questioned his powers to direct the Central Bank and Puma Energy to resolve the fuel crisis standoff, and had sought clarity from the Attorney General.
“The National Pandemic Act is still in effect, and it is only Parliament that will determine its continuity or otherwise. Whilst it is in force, the office of the Controller will from time to time be required to ‘step in’ to resolve issues, for and in the interest of the country.
“We have been through the immediate health response, we must now focus on recovery, and everyone must work together so that this is realised. Transport, emergency and essential services must continue to operate during this period.
“Access to fuel is an essential need and must be made available so business, government and essential services and everyday life can continue unhindered.
Mr Manning said he has advised the Chief Secretary to Government, Amb. Ivan Pomaleu, to initiate discussions with relevant parties to reach an understanding so that people are not made to suffer.
“The Minister for Petroleum and Energy, Hon. Kerenga Kua, MP, has further made a 30-Day Declaration of Emergency with an associated Plan of Action to investigate, amongst other issues, the Bank of PNG’s 13 allegations against Puma Energy Limited (PNG) and Puma Energy (PNG) Refining Limited.
“As such, with the two sets of instructions issued to the parties concerned, there can be no excuse for ongoing interruptions to the supply and distribution of fuel in Papua New Guinea.”