The New Ireland Government is demanding Kavieng Open MP and former Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey to explain why he cut the New Ireland Government’s 2024 budget by K40 million. “Ling-Stuckey must come out clear and explain himself to the people of Kavieng and New Ireland why the big slice from our 2024 Provincial budget,” said New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan. The Governor said in a statement that the 2024 Budget is by far one of the lowest Provincial budgets since his 15-year reign as Governor and is shocked that the estranged former treasurer would even think of chopping such a budget. “The New Ireland Provincial Government Budget Estimates for 2024 is K171,708,525 compared to K211,367,700 in 2023 Budget Estimates, a decrease of K39,659,175 in our total Revenue and Expenditure Estimates which is 19% decrease.” He questioned why Stuckey was intentionally trying to starve off and leave New Ireland crippled and a beggar to the National Government. “New Ireland has bankrolled numerous National Budgets for this country, and we don’t deserve this type of treatment. Give New Ireland its due instead of stealing from our Provincial fund.” Furthermore, Governor Chan added that PNG is surviving because the Lihir and Simberi Mines were keeping it afloat and claims that despite knowing this, Stuckey continues to abuse his own people. “We contribute amongst the highest per capita tax to PNG. New Irelanders are peaceful citizens, we do not retaliate or fight over monies.” "But our patience is running out and the National Government should not tempt us.”