New Ireland Government News

07/09/2024

THE last man standing Sir Julius Chan says seeing Pope has become part of his life. He was among the special guests who paid a courtesy call on Pope Francis at the APEC Haus private room today.

07/09/2024

"Sir J honoured to meet Pope Francis."
New Ireland Governor Rt Hon. Chief Sir Julius Chan was among PNG and Pacific leaders who were invited to meet Pope Francis this morning during a special meet and greet session at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.

Sir J who is also a devote Catholic and got most of his education from a Catholic run institution was honoured to be in the presence of his holiness Pope Francis.

This will be the 3rd time for Sir J to meet a living pope, the last two occasions were in 1984 and 1995 where he met the late Pope John Paul II.

Pope Francis landed in Port Moresby via Indonesia Airlines around 19:10pm last night ( Friday 6th September) after completing his Indonesian visitation.

His first formal meeting this morning was with the Governor General of Papua New Guinea His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae at Government House.

Vatican news confirms he will also pay a visit to the Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians, where he will meet with the Bishops of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, and with priests, deacons, consecrated men and women, seminarians and catechists.

On Sunday morning, the Pope will celebrate Holy Mass with the faithful at Sir John Guise Stadium, which has been teeming with activity during these last few days as final preparations are made.

Also on Sunday, he will take a flight to Vanimo, in northwestern Papua New Guinea where he will meet the faithful and a group of missionaries before returning to Port Moresby in the evening.

The 266th Pope will conclude the second stage of his Apostolic Journey with a meeting with young people on Monday morning.

It's estimated that out of the 8.2 million population of Papua New Guineans 31% are Catholics.
NIPG MEDIA UNIT

30/08/2024

30/08/2024

"Sir J inspires students at alma mater, Marist College Ashgrove."

New Ireland Governor Rt Hon. Chief Sir Julius Chan was invited to speak at his former school Marist College Ashgrove in Brisbane, Australia, on Wednesday the 28th of August.

Addressing 1700 students at the school Sir J told the students "This is my 70 years of association with the college since entering scholarship in 1954.”
Recalling back, he remembered flying midnight at the skylight Brisbane Airport after leaving Rabaul four days early with technical stop over 4 days in Lae. Then to Townsville and arrived at midnight with a reliable senior student. "I can remember "Like an angel". Daniel Tufui from Tonga. It was a long night by taxi. Daniel Tufui became the Chief Secretary for the kingdom of Tonga."

He remarked that Foreign students of Marist College from PNG had successfully gone on to engage in many responsibile careers. All working towards creating a new country Papua New Guinea.

"I was given the Finance Portfolio with very little accounting and banking experience. We had very little choice but to oversee the call of duty. I became Finance minister in 1972 to build Papua New Guinea to become an independent Nation.

“We had the full cooperation from the Australian Government which included Prime Minister Billy McMahon, John Gorton and Malcom Fraser.

“You can say we in PNG have listened to *George Santayana, Spanish-American philosopher, who said, "Those who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it." Papua New Guinea learn from that through history.

“We established and planned our own financial institutions, such as the Central Bank, and the National Corporation PNG Banking Corporation took over the commonwealth Bank of Australia and introduced our own currency kina and toea. We became members of the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, and the IMF.

“We have done reasonably well over 45 years.We listened to good advisors and took them to heart. It was quite a task for a young nation in 1975 to live through the international storms, but we always seem to overcome the storm with the gracious assistance of Australia.

“Continue to work together reflecting the integrity and status of our Independent Nation. We will be able to protect our economy and security for the country.

“Your ex-students from Ashgrove are continuing to carry the flag of the Marist College and we keep to the motto of ""Virility age" Be a man" Act Manfully. With this spirit of cooperation. Our countries security in the region remain free and interdependent respecting each integrity.

“One thing I want to share with you is that this is the best time of your life. Live it to the fullest. The world outside is cruel, competitive, selfish and often destructive and unconscious of fellow men. Therefore carry the spirit of your motto to the fullest. "Be a man" live life to the fullest, living fear behind, with honesty and learn to eembrace one another.

Sir J was treated as a star student back in the day, particularly because of his sporting prowess out on the rugby field. ⁠He played half back for the college in 1956,1957,1958 which remained undefeated for 19 years.

After completing his education at Marist he went on to study Agricultural science at St. Lousia university but later suffered in a motorbike accident. Almost paralyzed for 6 months. That did not stop him to build up the first indigenous rugby league team in Rabaul as captain back in 1962.

The Marist years definitely set up Sir J for success in the real world and his life’s journey has been met with numerous impressive accomplishments & achievements. Which many Papua New Guineans can attest to.

NIPG Media Unit

29/08/2024

"A toast to 85 years."

A small but significant ceremony organized by the New Ireland Governor's office was held at the Kavieng Village Resort ( KVR ) this afternoon to mark the New Ireland Governor's personal milestone of reaching 85 years of age today.

Although Sir Julius Chan could not be present in person due to him celebrating his birthday with his family in Brisbane, he still made sure to grace the occasion through a live phone call that was played through a loud speaker for everyone to hear.

He expressed how happy he was to have received all the wonderful birthday messages including those expressed through the special Birthday Tribute video by the country's prominent leaders like Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, Deputy Opposition leader/ Chuave Open MP Hon. James Nomane, East Sepik Governor Hon. Allan Bird, former Prime Minister and Ialibu Open MP Hon. Peter O'Neill, close friends Warren Dutton and Dr Robin Sios and wife Janet Sios.
" Not many people in the world get that type of arrangement, and for that I am greatful. Thankyou."

Looking back on his life, especially the era of nation building, he said, " I am very proud that we were able to create this country. And therefore it is very dear to me."

He attributed much of his success to the people that he was surrounded by, stating that he was lucky to have had loyal and dedicated people who supported him with their professionalism and dedication.

"I hope our leaders can get together and dedicate themselves for the common good of our people. Create a better future for our people, better than what we have today."

The milestone celebrations continued with the cutting of two Birthday cakes one bought by the Governor's staff and the other bought by road construction company CRCG.

While a toast in honor of the longevity of Sir J, signified a moment of triumph, at reaching another chapter of life, despite the rumor mongers spite.

NIPG Media Unit

29/08/2024

"Late Moses Makis laid to rest on Djaul Island."
Former Provincial Administrator and long time Public servant the late Moses Makis was laid to rest at his village of Langangat on Djaul Island.

He had served as Provincial administrator and special adviser under Governor Sir J.

The Provincial Government was represented by Deputy Governor Hon Sammy Missen and Mr Robin Brown, who conveyed the Government's Sincere condolences to the Family and clan of the late Moses Makis.

NIPG MEDIA UNIT

29/08/2024

Sir J's Condolence Message for Late Ken Bart.
It is with great sadness and sorrow that I hear of the untimely passing of the late Ken Bart.

Mr Bart was a true man of the people. An educationist by profession, he served as a teacher for many years, continuing his role in education as education co-ordinator for the Tikana LLG and eventually finding his way into the political sphere when he became Tikana LLG president in 2013.

I particularly got to know him personally when he served under me as Deputy Governor from 2013 to 2016. He was a close friend and served to the best of his ability.

On behalf of my family, the people and Government of New Ireland and the People’s Progress Party, join me to pass our sincere and deepest heartfelt sorrow to the family and loved ones.

Nothing can take away the pain that you are feeling at this time, but know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Rest in Peace my friend.

Julius Chan

29/08/2024

28/08/2024

Rt Hon. Chief Sir Julius Chan officially turned 85 years young today!

Last Man Standing, Founding Father, National Treasure & Pride of New Ireland!

Thankyou to everyone that contributed to this video tribute.

Special Thanks to Prime Minister James Marape, Deputy Opposition leader Hon. James Nomane, East Sepik Governor Hon. Allan Bird, Ialibu Pangia MP Hon. Peter O'Neill, Dr Robin Sios & Janet Sios & Warren Dutton for taking time to record their Birthday messages.

Happy 85th Birthday Sir J, Wishing you many more healthy & fruitful years.

26/08/2024

Sir J and brother Michael celebrate birthdays

Governor Sir Julius Chan’s 85th birthday celebrations were held along with his brother Michael Chan's 77th birthday celebrations yesterday (Sunday 25th August), witnessed by family and friends in Brisbane, Australia.

The birthday of Sir J falls on August 29th, but was celebrated a few days earlier with his brother's 77th birthday.

In his enthusing words to his younger brother, Governor Sir J praised Michael for his success in proficiency running the modernized coastal shipping services with 11 ships throughout the New Guinea Islands.

Louisa Schnaubelt, Sir J and Michael’s elder sister, also joined the family celebrations.

The event was well attended by family and friends, who condemn the overnight doomsayers and wish Governor Sir J good health and happiness.

Sir J comments “Just like a dream of me rising from the grave, it must be very disheartening for those who wish me dead."

NIPG Media Unit

24/08/2024

Sir J Alive and Well

The Office of the Governor- New Ireland dispell rumors being circulated on social media claiming Sir J's passing.

This is the work of faceless, disrespectful individuals and political enemies who continue to peddle fake news about former Prime Minister and founding father of this nation. The office strongly condemn such a dishonorable act.

Seen here is Sir J in high spirit greeted by his mate Teddy, a senior from Concierge, Sydney Sheraton Hyde Park whom they have known each other for over 20 years earlier today.

NIPG Media Unit

24/08/2024

Tikana administration building nears completion

The newly-constructed Tikana LLG administration building located at Lossuk Council is nearing completion.

Electrical wiring is done while interior painting has just started.

Deputy Governor and Tikana LLG President Hon Sammy Missen who has been working around the clock to push the project through said the building is a testament of the collaboration of the locals within the Tikana constituency.

The New Ireland Government is expected to open the administration building next month.

NIPG Media Unit

23/08/2024

Governor Rt Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan and family members visited his father's grave at Ryd Cemetery, Sydney Australia this morning.

Late Bernard Chin Pak, Sir J's late father passed away on September 28th 1994 at the age of 98, nine days after the davastating Rabaul volcanic eruption where Sir J lost his house and 3 days before he took on the role as Prime Minister on October 1st 1994 - his second term as Prime Minister.

Sir J described that period as difficult yet he pressed on with his country at heart.

Today, he was joined by children Vanessa and Mark, grandchildren and other family members at his late father’s gravesite, 30 years on since his dear father’s passing.

Every year Sir J honors his father and mother. Late Chin Pak and late Miriam Tinkoris are deserving of our gratitude and tribute as New Irelanders and Papua New Guineans for what Governor Sir Julius Chan has become to our province and nation.

Sir J also visited the gravesite of his former school mate from Sacred Heart Rabaul late Julian Chow and close friend late Sir Henry Chow.

NIPG Media Unit

23/08/2024

" Outstanding Public Servant honoured on Public Service Day."

Deputy Governor Hon Sammy Missen led officers from the Governor's office to honour Governor Sir Julius Chan's yearly commitment to pay respects to the late Stephen Mokis at his resting place at Luburua village in the Tikana LLG, an outstanding and extraordinary New Ireland Public servant who served with distinction.
He was also a founding member of the New Ireland Autonomy Committee.

Brother of late Stephen Mokis, John Mokis who is currently an officer with the Tikana LLG was present to welcome the Government Delegation.

Although Sir J was not present in person he passed his well wishes to the family.

“ The late Mokis was an Honest , hardworking, public servant. It’s not easy to find someone like him now a days.

“When he spoke you could trust that he would follow through with action.

“Stephen we miss you, One day we will meet you. And we will laugh together,” said Sir J

Late Stephen Mokis passed on the 23rd of August ( this day ) in 2012 while he was giving a speech on Public Service Day.

NIPG MEDIA UNIT

22/08/2024

Governor Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan and family members currently in Australia on his annual visitation to his fathers grave in Sydney.

Today, he also remembers and offered prayers at St. Mary's cathedral for his close friend late Stephen Mokis who passed away on August 23rd 2012, an outstanding dedicated public servant.

Staff of Governor's office joined family members of late Stephen Mokis at Luburua today to pay tribute at his grave.

"God bless him and family and people at Luburua", said Sir J.

22/08/2024

The Government of New Ireland acknowledges the continuous partnership and contribution of the Chinese Medical Team to the elevation of medical and training support to the people of New Ireland.

The team visited the New Ireland Legislative Assembly during their one week trip recently.

The Chinese Medical Team provided free medical check at the Kavieng General Hospital and also visited and donated stationeries and hygiene products to Omo Primary School.

Mr. Robin Brown on behalf of Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan thanked the team and presented certificate of appreciation for visiting New Ireland in facilitating medical services under its health partnership program.

NIPG Media Unit

20/08/2024

Wards to stage Independence celebrations

All Ward Council Committees have been reminded to work closely with LLG Presidents to plan this years 49th Independence celebrations at their respective wards.

Following positive responses from all over the province after successful celebrations at respective wards in 2023, the Government has decided that each ward will continue to take charge of this year’s Independence celebrations.

The Provincial Government has approved K142,000 for this year’s Independence celebrations with each ward to receive K1,000 funding support.

Governor Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan has encouraged all Ward Development Committees to take charge of this year’s independence celebrations with collective effort from all leaders in the communities.

“On this year’s 49th Independence celebrations on September 16th, the Government will decentralize celebrations to each of the 142 wards in the 10 Local level Government (LLG’s) of Murat, Lovongai, Kavieng urban, Tikana, Sentral Niu Ailan, Namatanai, Matalai, Konoagil, Tanir and Nimamar LLG.

“Not all participated in the New Ireland Day celebrations at Silom Primary School, but they have not been forgotten. My government is a government of fairness that provides opportunities for all; therefore, I want all to be included and be part of this year’s Independence celebrations.

Governor Sir J has encouraged all New Ireland to celebrate in the true spirit and value of Independence.

NIPG Media Unit

19/08/2024

Moratorium on all carbon trade projects in New Ireland

The New Ireland Government has imposed a Moratorium on all Carbon Trade Projects both Land and sea in the province, including the operations in the Konoagil Local Level Government covered by 330, 000 hectares of Forest.

In its meeting on 9 th August 2024, the New Ireland Provincial Executive Council has resolved to take legal action against Carbon Trade company NIHTS Inc for failing to fulfill its commitments under the signed MOA with Konogil Resource Owners and the New Ireland Government.

Chairman for Natural Resources and Deputy Governor Hon. Sammy Missen said the moratorium follows outstanding financial benefits including impact projects like road upgrades, rural power supply, educational and health kits etc from Carbon Trade company NIHTS Inc to local Konoagil Resource Owners
and clans and the company’s lack of cooperation and responsibility to live up to the terms of the contract.

“The legal action will seek to compensate the Konoagil Resource Owner clans and the NIPG for the outstanding financial benefits from the carbon project since 2015 and demand NIHTS Inc to declare to the Konoagil Resource Owners the 330,00 hectares under the Verified Carbon Standard”.

Hon Sammy Missen said when the Agreement was signed in 2021, NIHT INC promised to operate legally within New Ireland Province and to ensure all parties including the Incorporated Land Groups, Provincial Government and the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA ) benefit from the net
revenue from the sale of Carbon credits on a benefit sharing arrangement of 56% to Konoagil Resource owners, 8% New Ireland Government and 7% to Climate Change Development Authority.

“Since then, nothing has been forthcoming from the company, hence The New Ireland Government has agreed to this step forward and I think it is the right direction”, he said.

NIPG Media Unit

19/08/2024

Outstanding New Irelander Award presented to Dr. Noah Tapaua

Dr. Tapaua was one of ten (10) other recipient of the outstanding New Irelander medal awarded on New Ireland Day, July 27th.

Dr. Tapaua was not able to attend the occasion at Silom Primary School, however Sir J presented his award on Saturday, August 17th at Governor's residence in Port Moresby.

Governor Sir J said " I am proud of your achievement as Papua New Guinea’s first cardiothoracic surgeon and your contribution to health in the Province.

“As a son of New Ireland you have not only lifted the name of Papua New Guinea but also of your home province New Ireland and more specifically Mussau Island.

"Personally, I have had the good fortune of being a patient of yours in the past at the Paradise hospital, and even then was impressed with your human touch.

“May you continue to lift the flag of PNG and New Ireland.

"On behalf of all New Irelanders, I congratulate you once again and wish you even more success in your future endeavors."

18/08/2024

Mr. Robin Brown from Governor's Office- New Ireland delivering Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan's condolence message to the family of late John P***a at Pinikidu village on Saturday.

The New Ireland Administration and New Ireland Education also joined the Office of the Governor to perform customary obligation to the family in appreciate of his service and great contribution to the Province and the country.

Late P***a will be laid to rest later today.

NIPG Media Unit

16/08/2024

A chiefly welcome accorded to one of New Ireland's great fighter and astute leader for the people's right, late John P***a this afternoon at the Kavieng airport.

The New Ireland Government, New Ireland Administration and New Ireland Autonomy Committee were on hand to receive the casket of late P***a.

Late P***a will be laid to rest at his Pinikidu village in Sentral Niu Ailan on Monday, 19th August.

NIPG Media Unit

16/08/2024

NIPG support Utu Secondary School 97th anniversary celebrations

The New Ireland Government is thrilled to be supporting one of New Ireland’s pioneer schools Utu Secondary School at its 97th anniversary celebrations today.

CEO Economic Sector Mr. Edward Lasisi on behalf of Governor Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan officially opened the celebrations and delivered the main address with K5,000 support presented by Ms. Jemimah Sukbat from the Governor’s Office.

Mr. Lasisi acknowledged the immense contribution and positive impact Utu Secondary School has had on its students for the last 97 years since its establishment in 1972.

The School is gearing up to host its 100th anniversary celebrations in three years time.

Happy Utu Day!

13/08/2024

Progress of Palabong bridge

Mobilization of equipment and machineries for the construction of Palabong bridge in Konoagil LLG have arrived on site.

Contactor NGI Supplies commenced work this month August, 2024 and the project is anticipated to be completed in November, 2024.

At present the locals use wet crossing and with the completion construction of this bridge, the people of remote Kandas area will be able to connect with the rest of Lak people on the Coast.

This bridge was contracted 3 years ago, however contractor let us down and the Government let the West Coast people down.

The Chan-Missen Government will continue to deliver services to the most furtherst places like Mazinzuan and Lamasa and West Coast Namatanai. Palabong bridge and the rest of West Coast last Kona remains a priority for the Government under its policy of the “further you are, the more the government cares”.

NIPG Media Unit

13/08/2024

Governor Sir Julius Chan's condolence message to family of late MP late Fr. Simon Dumarinu and people of Central Bougainville.

12/08/2024

Toksave:
Also in conjunction with the Rugby 7's Autonomy tournament at the Courthouse oval in Kavieng, there will be a three day Pikinini Clinic prior from the 2nd to the 4th of September.

Parents or guardians of aspiring Rugby youngsters are encouraged to bring their kids along to the Pikinini Clinic.

An internship training for referees and match officials will also be held. This is made possible through the support of Total Waste Management (TWM)and Capital Rugby Union (CRU) President Mr Kori Chan.

The Autonomy Cup proper will be held from the 5th to 7th September.

A total of 24 teams, including 4 women's teams will being competing for the Prized Autonomy Cup trophies.

NIPG MEDIA UNIT

12/08/2024

Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan's condolence messages to immediate family of late Sir Soekandar Tjandra KBE.

12/08/2024

Condolence Message to family of Late John P***a

New Ireland has lost one of its great fighter and an astute leader for the people’s rights.

Governor Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan said New Ireland is proud of late John P***a who was a strong unionist and mouthpiece of the many silent majority in Papua New Guinea and member of the Provincial Autonomy Committee until his untimely passing.

My government values his contributions to the province’s quest for Autonomy.

“John was a good friend of mine and I know him from many fronts. He will be greatly missed.”

“On behalf of my family, the people of New Ireland, the New Ireland Government and its Administration, People’s Progress Party, New Ireland Provincial Autonomy Committee, my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, the people of Sentral Niu Ailan LLG, and the Union community.

“I thank God for his life of service to Papua New Guinea and New Ireland.

Director for Autonomy Mr. Ricky Fugonto said he had the privilege of working with late P***a at the committee level and person-to-person conversations on a lot of issues.

“I learned a lot from this great man of wisdom who fears no one but takes issues that affect the workforce and people head on.

“The people of New Ireland knows him as a fighter for human rights. I personally know him well and we are proud of another New Irelander contribution to PNG. We will not forget him.”

New Ireland Autonomy Committee chairman Mr. Pedi Anis said Autonomy committee members have been informed of the news and New Ireland custom obligations will be organised to receive the body in the province.

(Late John P***a standing 4th from right)

NIPG Media Unit

10/08/2024

Doctor Feng and Chinese Doctors from Xhonqing Medical University China, visiting Governor Rt. Hon Chief Sir Julius Chan in Port Moresby recently. The team will arrive in Kavieng on Monday and will be in the province for a week.

10/08/2024

Rugby 7's Autonomy Cup, Set for September 5th - 7th.
24 teams throughout New Ireland are gearing up for the much-anticipated New Ireland Rugby 7’s Autonomy Cup.
President of the New Ireland Rugby Union Association Charlie Melachon confirmed that the tournament is set for three days from the 05th to the 07th of September. It will be held at the court house oval in Kavieng.
He said nearly all the LLG’s are taking part with two teams each, except for the Murat LLG.
“ Included in the 24 teams are four women’s teams from Namatanai, Sentral, Tikana and Kavieng urban LLG’s,” said President Melachon.
Melachon said this is the second year for the Rugby 7’s Autonomy Cup to be held following on from last year’s tournament held at Lugagun, which has had a positive impact on the youth, keeping them away from a life of crime and other negative life choices.
Melachon thanked the major sponsor of the 3 day Autonomy cup, the New Ireland Provincial Government for it’s K50,000 contribution towards the tournament. He said the continued support by the New Ireland Provincial Government has been instrumental in creating a pathway for the New Ireland Rugby Union players to be exposed to higher standard of rugby and potentially represent the country on the world stage.
“As a result of our ongoing rugby 7s tournaments we have identified some very promising talents who have gone on to represent our country. We have the current captain of the PNG Pukpuks Kuna Late, Jaybes Pangas, Ian Kisiu and Solomon Aini who were fielded onto the National stage as a result of the pathway set up by New Ireland Rugby.”
Melachon said the main aim of the tournament is not only to promote healthy lifestyles and sportsmanship at the grassroots levels but also to promote the greater message of “Autonomy” for New Ireland which the Provincial Government has been advocating for.
The tournament will be managed by Kavieng Urban Rugby Union association under Edmund Polut and tournament Director Samual Waulas.
Prior to the tournament, a pikinini clinic, as well as an internship training for referees and match officials will be held. This is made possible through the support of Total Waste Management (TWM)and Capital Rugby Union (CRU) President Mr Kori Chan.

NIPG Media Unit