HEALTH Minister Sir Peter Barter has refuted the ABC’s Four Corners programme on the HIV/AIDS situation in PNG, describing it as cheap journalism.

Sir Peter said the programme misrepresented facts to spoil Papua New Guinea’s good name and the report on the expiry of drugs.

He said the truth was that PNG was an honest society and admitted that HIV/AIDS was a problem, but the Government was addressing it.

“There are weaknesses in our health systems and there are failings in our society. We admit them but, nonetheless, there are also very considerable and growing strengths in our health system and response to epidemics such as HIV/AIDS,” Sir Peter said.

Sir Peter said the programme was offensive and reported on the negative aspects rather than positive efforts by the Government, churches and NGOs in dealing with the problem.
He said up to 2% of the population was living with HIV/AIDS compared to some African countries with a 60% infection rate.

“We are in a position to control the spread of the disease.
“Partners are AusAID, and I don’t know why ABC chose to run that programme.
“The Government effort had not been reported fairly.
“To say that the Government is not acting is irresponsible.”
He said his comments were not aired on the programme and the reports about the lack of drugs and expiry dates were not true.

Sir Peter said although he respected the freedom of reporting by the media, the people of PNG, including the Prime Minister, were disgusted by the report and hinted that there may be some restrictions to future visits by the Australian media.

Sir Peter said PNG’s national policy was in line with regional strategies in the South Pacific and East Asia and resolutions at the G8 Summit.