New Ireland Governor James Byron Chan has revived the province’s Old Age and Disability Pension, restoring a policy established under the leadership of his late father, former Governor and former Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Julius Chan.

The pension scheme was temporarily shelved following the passing of Sir Julius Chan but has now been reinstated after Byron Chan won the New Ireland by-election earlier this year.

The policy is aimed at supporting elderly and people living with disabilities across the province, providing financial assistance to those who have limited capacity to support themselves.

Governor Chan said the pension was part of his commitment to New Irelanders who have spent their lives contributing to their families, communities and the development of New Ireland and Papua New Guinea.

“It is only rightful that their perseverance that made us to be who we are today is compensated, given their limited abilities now that age is catching up.”

He said elderly New Irelanders had contributed in many ways to the development of the province and the country, including raising families and supporting their communities.

Governor Chan also acknowledged people living with disabilities, saying the pension would provide additional support while their families continue to assist them with their daily needs.

The governor said the restoration of the pension was not about politics or demonstrating status, but about delivering services and supporting people in need.

Old Age and Disability Pension payments are now being rolled out across the province following the launch at Muliama Village in the Matalai Local Level Government area of Namatanai District over the weekend.