Governor Byron Chan hosted Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and a senior judicial delegation at a dinner in Kavieng to mark the return of the Supreme Court to New Ireland Province after a three-decade absence.

The New Ireland Provincial Government hosted the formal event at the Malagan Lodge, bringing together senior members of Papua New Guinea’s judiciary, court officials and Correctional Services personnel before a week of Supreme Court proceedings.

Chief Justice Sir Gibbs arrived alongside his wife, Lady Rose Salika, and was warmly received by Governor Chan.

The visiting delegation features judges of the National and Supreme Courts, including Acting Deputy Chief Justice Penuel Mogish and Correctional Services Commissioner Noel Sarei.

The Kavieng sitting marks a significant moment for the province which last hosted a Supreme Court circuit in 1996.

Governor Chan welcomed the delegation and emphasized that the return of the country’s highest court would make it possible for matters to be heard in Kavieng, reducing the need for participants to travel elsewhere.

He further affirmed his administration’s readiness to assist and work with the visiting judicial team.

Sir Gibbs commended the provincial government and local communities for helping maintain safe communities, noting the low number of reports of major crimes.

He described the court’s return as an important development for New Ireland.

Justice Mogish, a New Irelander, is to lead the five-member Supreme Court bench during the sitting. He is among the senior judges serving in the National and Supreme Courts.

He also acknowledged Sir Gibbs’ long service on the Bench, describing him as the Commonwealth’s longest-serving judge.

The week-long session is scheduled to begin following an official opening ceremony featuring a joint parade by police and Correctional Services personnel marching to the courthouse.

The sitting this week is expected to bring judicial proceedings and senior members of the national justice system to Kavieng, marking the return of Supreme Court business to New Ireland after a 30-year absence.