Pacific

PNG PM promises Bougainville road funding

18:07 pm on 16 June 2010

The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Sir Michael Somare, says money will be provided for key roading projects throughout Bougainville.

Speaking during the swearing in for the new parliamentarians of the autonomous province, Sir Michael said that from next year funds would be made available to seal the Buka ring road and the road running the length of the province.

New Dawn FM on Bougainville reports Sir Michael as saying funds are to also be made available to provide submarine cabling to connect towns in northern Bougainville to the electricity grid.

The new Government is headed by former governor and diplomat, John Momis, and includes a majority of first time MPs.

The parliament sat only briefly with Andrew Miriki being named Speaker before being adjourned until next Wednesday when the new cabinet is expected to be named.