PIR civic action DPR/TV/812

Civic action tasks are being undertaken on a grand scale by members of the Pacific Islands Regiment in the Lumi district of the Sepik in Papua-New Guinea. Road construction work is one of the projects being undertaken, and the local population willingly lends its support to the soldiers engaged on the task, to get the job completed. In another area of the Lumi district a space of ground is being cleared for use as a sports oval, and again local hands eagerly help the members of the Pacific Islands Regiment to complete their task. The third project being undertaken is the construction of a village aid post in the village of Telotei. This will replace an improvised medical centre already in operation. The soldiers responsible for this civic ation programme are all members of "A" Company, 2nd Battalion, The Pacific Islands Regiment. They began their assistance following a company counter-insurgency exercise in the area, which is about 110 miles west of Wewak, and almost in sight of the West Irian border. For the villagers in parts of the Sepik district, which saw bitter fighting and more than its share of bombing during World War Two, the "new Army" concept is being warmly welcomed, and full co-operation is being given. These civic action programmes are designed to pass on knowledge and skills to the more primitive tribes, so they can eventually conduct their own community projects without assistance. Commanding Officer of 2nd Battalion is Lieutenant-Colonel E. M. McCormick, who is very conscious of the importance of civic ation, and holds regular discussions with village elders and councillors. Through these discussions the building work can be more readily continued without the guidance of PIR members being necessary. Many locals are engaged in the village aid post project. The previous, improvised medical centre was run by Sister Rosemary Wright of New Zealand, who is the teacher at the Lumi Primary school. With many hands bringing the new aid centre close to completion, her work will be made much easier - and more effective.