9 Aug 2012

Report into PNG Rabaul Queen to be released this month

7:10 pm on 9 August 2012

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill, will be revealing the report findings into the sinking of the Rabaul Queen before the end of August.

In February, the ferry sank in rough conditions sailing from Kimbe to Lae with at least 140 passengers drowning.

A Commission of Inquiry in April and May looked into the circumstances surrounding the disaster.

It heard allegations of arrogance, apathy, complacency and incompetence from the company and captain of the ship.

Daniel Korembou, who is an advisor to Mr O'Neill, says the report will be one of the first things to be deliberated by the newly appointed cabinet.

"The fact that he received the report during an active election campaign and asked the department to prepare a submission for cabinet endorsement is, the fact that he's done that is, shows he's placed it as a top priority to be actioned."

Daniel Korembou, media advisor to PNG's Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill.