Prime Minister O'Neill expresses greater Autonomy for New Ireland and Bougainville

The Prime Minister Peter O'Neill  has held beneficial and informative discussions with New Ireland Governor, Rt. Hon. Sir Julius Chan GCL GCMG KBE MP, and the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Hon. Chief Dr. John L. Momis CL MHR, on autonomy related issues.

During a visit to Kavieng on October 6, PM O'Neill held discussions with officials covering issues raised by New Ireland officials, and today, met with representatives from Bougainville.

He said both meetings were opportunities to further discuss how greater autonomy would relate to broader national considerations.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister met with Sir Julius Chan and the leaders from the New Ireland Province, led by Sir Noel Levi as the Chairman of New Ireland Autonomy Committee, as well as his deputy, the former Premier, Pedi Anis. The meeting was also attended by Kavieng Open Member of Parliament, Minister Ben Micah.

"Recent calls by Sir Julius Chan for the evolution of a federal structure of national governance in Papua New Guinea are welcome," PM O'Neill said after the meeting.

"We shared views on the way forward on the autonomy arrangement for New Ireland and had a very good discussion.

"As one of the most respected elder statesmen of our nation, the perspective of Sir Julius on a range of national issues for our people is always well received."

In a separate meeting today in Port Moresby, PM O'Neill met with President Momis and leaders from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville including, Members of the AROB Cabinet and Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Hon. Seven Kamma MP.

"With President Momis we are looking at the workings of the autonomous government and ways in which we can strengthen autonomous arrangements in Bougainville.

"This is alongside the national government's ongoing infrastructure programs in Bougainville, New Ireland and around the country.

"When we work together across all levels of government, and when we listen and engage in respectful dialogue, we can all achieve great things for the nation.

"Our Government has always stood for devolving authority to the levels of administration closest to the people, and exploring options for greater autonomy helps us to do this."