Autonomy will unite PNG: Sir J

By THOMAS HUKAHU in Kavieng
NEW Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan has assured Prime Minister Peter O’Neill that the granting of autonomy to the province will unite the nation.
Sir Julius made the statement during the opening of the province’s official government residence in Kavieng by O’Neill.
He told O’Neill that the granting of the autonomy to New Ireland would not create fear or division.
“Prime minister, you have no fear. We will stand by you,” Sir Julius said.
“I think independence will do anybody good.
“The world is getting smaller and all around the world people are coming together to form united nations and groups because they want unity.
“And we will be doing the wrong thing if we start to go a different way.”
He urged Bougainville and other provinces to get autonomy but to remain part of PNG.
“Get autonomy – get maximum power that you want but please don’t let go of me. Let’s stay together,” Sir Julius said.
He said the government residence belonged to the people of New Ireland to be used by visiting delegates.
“If the prime minister of Australia comes, he can live in this house,” Sir Julius said.
He said New Ireland was a peaceful place.