Interesting term, but what it means is that IOC is in the process of training local citizens to operate the refinery and wharf at Napa Napa. Much better term than one article I saw over the weekend that said IOC was going to "nationalize" the refinery. Big difference in words. IOC is in a 5-year process of doing this and as the article and video state, it's been tough attracting locals due to the fact that the PNG LNG project has been offering good wages/benefits to workers. Another positive PR piece for IOC.
InterOil to localise Napa Napa Refinery
on Tuesday, 21 May 2013. Posted
Plans are currently underway to localize Interoil’s Napa Napa Refinery operation in Port Moresby.
This was made known over the weekend, following a visit to the refinery by Minister for Environment & Conservation John Pundari.
Human Resource Manager Vincent Lialu said it is a tough task in the completing the process.
This is because rival resource investors such as Exxon Mobil are offering packages which are appealing to many other locals.
Mr Lialu said this is no excuse and they are working hard to train and up-skill the young crop of staff they have to one day take over the refinery’s operation.
They have begun this already with the jetty, and are now focusing on operations and maintenance.
He said this is one of the biggest tickets the company was riding on and hopes to complete it within the next five years.
