Prime Minister Peter O’Neill had recently visited the East New Britain and New Ireland provincial governments.
In his visit to the provinces, PM O’Neill made a commitment to the two provinces to have autonomy.
Mr O’Neill said the National Government cannot continue to micromanage provinces in the next five years and it is important that the two provinces receive autonomy.
O’Neill said his government will ensure these island provinces receive autonomy.
He said his government has seen the need for better services in rural areas, which had prompted the creation of the District Development Authority (DDA).
However, there are problems at the most rural level that need much attention. Services such as education and health which are supposed to be free. The question now is: Will autonomy improve these situations?
Mr O’Neill says just because there are challenges it should not stop the government from continuing to implement their policies.
Meanwhile, Governor of New Ireland Province, Sir Julius Chan, says they are ready for autonomy.
