Sir Julius to head new NIP team

 By ELIZABETH VUVU

A HIGH-level committee has been formed in New Ireland to screen and monitor the development and timely implementation of priority impact projects and programmes under the 2011 provincial budget.

The committee will be headed by Governor Sir Julius Chan, who is adamant that this year be the year of implementation engaging all available resources to ensure the development budget comprising 62% of the total expenditure budget of K143 million is implemented on time and on budget.

Announcing the provincial executive council’s recent decision, Sir Julius said the committee had a critical task to mobilise and pool resources and ensure all systems and processes respond in unison to target the province’s implementation and establishment of the project implementation committee which was long overdue.

Its members are Sir Julius as chairman, Marius Soiat (transport, works and commerce chairman), Simeon Malai (provincial administrator), Kasen Bala (public works), Bruce Harris (chief provincial adviser) and district administrators.

Sir Julius said the PEC noted the lack of capacity to implement projects and programmes in past provincial budgets and moved decisively to correct this matter by putting together this committee.

He said it was a committee defined under the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local Level Governments making NIP conform to existing laws.

“We know our strengths and weaknesses and this committee will be in a better position to keep tab on our progress and ensure we make the best of what we have for maximum benefit of our people.”