Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has urged the New Ireland Provincial Government to do more to modernise the province.
PM Marape said this can be done relatively easily because of the existence of some enabling infrastructure, revenue from Lihir Mine, and the strong observance of the Rule of Law in the province.
The Prime Minister highlighted New Ireland’s key economic potential revenue-earners in agriculture, tourism and fisheries.
“New Ireland Province can easily be ticked off in terms of development and modernisation.
“There is big potential for revenue in agriculture, tourism and fishing. Given your rich and fertile land for agriculture; your ‘bilas peles’ tag for tourism; and your beautiful waters rich in fish, there is huge potential for increased revenue and rapid modernisation of the province,” he pointed out.
Prime Minister Marape made these comments while receiving the 2024 New Ireland Provincial Government Budget of K450 million at Sir Manasupe House recently (28/02/2024).
He also assured the provincial government of his government’s support, and offered his respects to former prime minister and founding father, Governor Hon. Sir Julius Chan.
Kavieng District Development Authority CEO David Lens presented the budget on behalf of the provincial government. He was joined by officials from the New Ireland Provincial Assembly.
The K450 million budget encompasses 13 LLG budgets from across the province in the two districts of Kavieng and Namatanai.
Kavieng MP and Minister assisting the Prime Minister on Treasury matters Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey was also present to witness the budget presentation.
