Eastern provinces need more funds

Eastern provinces need more funds

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: The government campaign to promote
development in eastern provinces, notably Irian Jaya, is not
supported by adequate funding, a local official complained
yesterday.

Development in Irian Jaya has not brought about the desired
results because of the lack of funds, chief of the provincial
public works office Soepardio said.

The budget the central government has provided for the local
public works office this year is smaller than it was last year,
he told Antara. He did not mention the figure.

"If the government is consistent about its intention to
promote development in eastern provinces, the budget should
increase every year, not other way around," he said.

He said Irian Jaya needs substantial amounts of funds to
develop its abundant natural resources. (pan)