Source: PNG VIllage

The two final reports on special Agriculture Business leases were tabled in parliament.

In his remarks, PM Peter O’Neill, says the two reports covered only 42 of the 75 SABL areas and that the findings were shocking.

He says from the 42 only 4 SABL had qualified landowners consent and have produced successful agriculture projects, while the rest was obtained through corrupted means.

According to the report the SABL policy failed miserably.

The SABL report has recommended that the policy remain but improvements be made to it to ensure landowners and environment is protected.

The first Commission of Inquiry into Special Agriculture and Business Leases Final Report prepared by Commissioner John Numapo and dated the 24 June 2013.

This document contains an examination of 17 SABLs and contains the main recommendations of the Commission.

The second report was prepared by Commissioner Nicolas Mirou, this document contains an overview of the administrative procedures and legal requirements for issuing an SABL, an examination of 25 SABLs and some more general recommendations.

Mr. O’Neill the government is going to start protecting landowners and the environment, and that they will longer watch on as foreign owned companies come in and con landowners,

He further says the Minister for Lands and Physical Planning will be appointing a task force to identify a new legislation framework to provide for the conversion of customary land into leases hold land for the benefit of landowners, protect’ the interest of landowners and to ensure sustainable land use.

He says the primary consideration will be protecting the interests of landowners and the environment.

Mr. O’Neill says for far too landowners have been taken advantage off and their land stolen.