Government has failed the people of Rennell: Wale

The Leader of the Opposition Matthew Wale has strongly condemned Government’s failure to address the long outstanding issues surrounding bauxite mining in Rennell.

Speaking in Parliament, Wale rebuked Government for its gross mismanagement and incompetence in handling the nation’s strategic resources, a media statement by the Opposition yesterday said.

Wale’s remarks came after the Minister of Mines and Minster of Finance failed to provide substantive answers to his question regarding unpaid duties and taxes on bauxite shipments from Rennell.

“I have put this question on notice for more than a week now. Government has had enough time to find the information regarding the outstanding amounts.

“And the Minister of Finance is only trying to find the answer this morning? This is inexcusable, especially when this matter has been outstanding for eight years,” Wale said.

Wale criticised Government’s lethargic approach, describing it as a reflection of their persistent failure over the years to manage the country’s natural resources responsibly and effectively.

“This is the same Minister of Mines. This is just inexcusable. The Minister cannot in any way defend himself from this gross mismanagement.

“Even if it was only one shipment, the Minister of Mines should be going after the payments. But to let 33 shipments go? Shame on you,” Wale added.

Wale said the issue is exacerbated by Government’s reckless decision to impose zero duty on bauxite and other associated minerals exported from Rennell, the statement adds.

Concluding his remarks, Wale questioned Government’s tolerance of such blatant negligence and called on Government to take full responsibility for their ongoing gross mismanagement.

“We are the only country that mining companies don’t pay the duties and taxes and its okay.

“And Finance Minister says we cannot recover the money? Is that the response we give to our people? We should be ashamed,” Wale concluded.