The PNG Trade Union Congress (PNGTUC) has named its newly renovated head office as the “Paska Solidarity Hub” in honor of its late president, John Paska.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, Richard Marles, who was a close friend of the late John Paska, officially opened the building on 15 September 2025, the day before PNG’s 50th
The same day upon Mr Marles arrival – he made a brief visit to the PNGTUC headquarters to officially open the new facility.
PNGTUC General Secretary Clemence Kanau said it was fitting that the late John Paska’s brother – Mr Richard Marles do the official naming and opening as a tribute to the late Paska.
Mr Marles made the following remarks as he officially opened the new office and conference room.
“It wouldn’t have been a celebration of PNG’s Independence for me if I did not come here. The PNG Trade Union building is so much for me a part of my story with PNG. John Paska is my experience and story of PNG.
“It was so sad to hear of John’s passing last year. One of my life-long dreams was to go with John to Kavieng. He promised to take me out shark calling in New Ireland. We never got to do that.
“John was a very different mind and we shared many times and thoughts together. He felt so much for this incredible country.
“I just want you to know how much it means to me to pay this tribute to him a day before the 50th anniversary celebrations and to name this building after him as the ‘Paska Solidarity Hub’.
“It is a fitting tribute to a giant of the PNG Trade Union Movement. I would love to return back to PNG to see the name Paska Solidarity Hub on this building again,” Mr Marles said
PNGTUC General Secretary Clemence Kanau said the official naming of the Paska Solidarity Hub by Mr Marles reflects a new direction and engagement for PNG TUC.
“Less focus on internal trade union politics and greater emphasis on active participation in socio-economic policy and positioning of PNGTUC as a key stakeholder in national development.
“Maintaining the Supremacy of the constitution over parliament and defending democracy for justice, liberty and dignity for all remains the epicenter of our work.
“For workers today and into the future – the reset has begun,” Mr Kanau said.