𝗥𝗮𝗶 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁, 𝟭𝟲 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰.
We are a nation of rich and proud cultures.
We commemorate the freedom and opportunities that Independence affords us; however, as we do so, it is essential for us to unite as a people and a nation in order to cultivate a shared identity and strive toward our collective aspirations.
We are continually buffeted by volatile and difficult social, physical, economic and political circumstances. We are a strong and resilient people but as we battle these challenges we must never neglect our most vulnerable and disadvantaged – particularly women, youth, those living with disabilities, children and more generally our rural majority. My Ministry is taking steps forward, admittedly slower than I wish to address policy, legislative and administrative gaps in the labour market.
I have reinvigorated dialogue with Government’s social partners – the unions and the employers. I look forward to meaningful collaboration with them and careful thought about how we create decent work. The commencement of the Minimum Wages Board to review minimum wages will be announced soon – this has been delayed as the Government deals with the vote of no confidence. Efforts continue on ensuring every worker has a safe and healthy workplace; drafting of the National Occupational Health and Safety Policy nears completion.
Ensuring that working women do not suffer a motherhood penalty for delivering the greatest gift of all – life, will be addressed through legislative reforms and I look forward to the receipt of the CLRC’s report and recommendation on this. The broader labour legislative program will look at ensuring we have legal frameworks that address our policy goals, eliminate discrimination in the workplace and comply with international standards.
But of deep concern to me is that our people are increasingly trapped in employment in the informal sector. Whilst this is important as a safety net it will not provide the living standards and protection necessary for a quality life for our people. Economic growth drives job creation and our Government must sharpen its focus on supporting private sector-led growth that is inclusive, sustainable and job-rich.
For people-centered development, we must equip our people with the knowledge and skills to raise productivity and give them the means to participate fully in the economy and benefit from development. I continue to work on creating a bridge between the informal and formal sector and to support the transition from school to work.
As we celebrate our 49th Independence Day let us reflect on our journey – all the achievements but also all the challenges and yes on our failures. Let’s us ask ourselves would those that fought hard for our Independence and those that came and contributed before of us be proud of where we are today. We must learn from yesterday and adapt as we go forward. Let us open our hearts, unite and reaffirm our commitment to a better Papua New Guinea that together only we can and must build in our unique Papua New Guinean way.
Together we are formidable, we are all nation builders. Happy Independence Day my beloved people of Papua New Guinea.
HON. KESSY SAWANG MP
MINISTER FOR LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT
MEMBER FOR RAI COAST
