Council of Elders

Northern Province Governor, Gary Juffa, issued this strong statement at New Ireland’s recent Council of Elders.

Juffa was a special guest at the 10^th Council of Elders summit on Tabar Island, New Ireland Province.

Speaking to 180 local men and women leaders from the 142 wards of New Ireland, Juffa reminded them that they are the custodians of their natural environment. Their unique culture, flora and fauna depends on the decisions that they make today.

The annual event, which started in 2009, is unique to New Ireland Province.

180 local men and women leaders started arriving by boat on November 6^th for the three-day forum at Tatau, which was officially opened that same evening by chairman of the Council of Elders, Sir Noel Levi.

The official opening was witnessed by Governor Sir Julius Chan and his guest, Northern Province Governor Gary Juffa.