NEW Ireland Governor Byron Chan has welcomed the swearing-in of four new Provincial Executive Council (PEC) Members, describing the appointments as a significant step towards strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and advancing the province’s ambitious development agenda.
The newly appointed PEC Members will assume responsibility for key institutional and development sectors and are expected to play a central role in supporting the Chan-Kolivos Government’s vision for economic growth, community empowerment, and institutional strengthening throughout New Ireland Province.
The new appointments are:
• Christopher Carol, Chairman for Tourism and Culture and Chairman for the Council of Elders.
• Fiona Cheong, Chairlady for Women Affairs and Churches.
• Kunibert Neopor, Chairman for Youth and Sports.
• Benjamin Kimbe, Chairman for the New Ireland Development Corporation (NIDC).
Governor Chan said the appointments come at a critical time as the Provincial Government continues to implement a range of development initiatives and prepare for key
Provincial Assembly deliberations, including discussions surrounding the provincial budget and future development priorities.
“These appointments are important to ensuring that we have a fully functional and effective PEC members capable of delivering on the commitments we have made to our people,” the Governor said.
“As we continue to strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and pursue our development agenda, it is essential that we have capable leaders overseeing key sectors that directly impact the lives of our people.”
The Governor said the expanded PEC will provide greater leadership and oversight across critical sectors while supporting the provincial administration in implementing policies and programs designed to improve the social and economic wellbeing of New Irelanders.
He noted that since taking office earlier this year, his administration has focused on rebuilding public confidence in government, strengthening provincial institutions, and ensuring that development reaches communities throughout the province.
“Our people expect leadership that delivers results. These appointments are about ensuring that we have the right people in place to help drive programs, monitor implementation, and provide strategic direction in areas that are vital to the future of our province.”
The Governor highlighted importance of each portfolio in supporting the province’s broader development agenda.
The Tourism and Culture portfolio, under Christopher Carol, is expected to play a key role in promoting New Ireland’s unique cultural heritage, tourism attractions, and traditional values while strengthening the role of the Council of Elders in community development and social cohesion.
The appointment of Fiona Cheong to Women Affairs and Churches reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to empowering women and strengthening partnerships with faith-based organisations.
The Governor said the portfolio will complement recent initiatives such as the Empowering Mama Bilas Peles Program, which aims to improve financial inclusion and economic opportunities for women across the province.
“Women continue to play a vital role in our families, communities, churches, and economy. Strengthening women’s participation in development remains one of our priorities as a government.”
Kunibert Neopor’s appointment to Youth and Sports comes as the Provincial Government seeks to create greater opportunities for young people through education, sports development, leadership programs, and skills training.
The Governor said investing in youth is critical to securing the future of New Ireland.
“Our young people are the future leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs of this province. We must continue creating pathways that allow them to develop their talents and contribute positively to society.”
The appointment of Benjamin Kimbe as New Ireland Development Corporation comes as the corporation Chairman continues to reposition itself as a key vehicle for economic growth and investment.
Governor Chan emphasized that NIDC will play an important role in driving commercial development, attracting investment, supporting agriculture and fisheries projects, and creating employment opportunities throughout the province.
Recent reforms within the corporation, including the appointment of a new board and the establishment of a technical working committee for agriculture and fisheries projects, demonstrate the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening the province’s economic foundations.
“Economic growth and self-reliance remain central to our vision for New Ireland. NIDC has a crucial role to play in generating revenue, creating jobs, and unlocking opportunities for our people.”
Governor Chan stated that the new appointments will further support the implementation of several major initiatives already underway across the province.
Since returning to office, the Chan-Kolivos Government has restored the provincial tertiary school fee subsidy program, launched the Empowering Mama Bilas Peles Program, advanced discussions on international education partnerships with institutions in the Philippines, strengthened the New Ireland Development Corporation, and initiated capacity assessments as part of the province’s long-term autonomy agenda.
The Governor said all of these initiatives are connected by a common goal of building a stronger, more prosperous, and self-reliant New Ireland.
“We are laying the foundations for the future. Whether it is investing in education, empowering women, creating opportunities for our youth, strengthening our economy, or preparing for greater autonomy, every decision we make is focused on improving the lives of our people.”
As the Provincial Government prepares for upcoming Provincial Assembly deliberations, including discussions on the provincial budget, Governor Chan said the strengthened PEC will ensure that the Government remains focused on delivering meaningful outcomes across all sectors.
“The work ahead is significant, but so too are the opportunities before us. With a strengthened Executive Council and a clear development vision, we are well positioned to continue moving New Ireland forward.”
He congratulated the newly sworn-in members and expressed confidence in their ability to serve the people of New Ireland with integrity, commitment, and dedication.
“I look forward to working closely with each of them as we continue our journey of development, good governance, and progress for the people of New Ireland Province.”