I join Chief Secretary Joseph Nobetau and others in extending my deepest sympathy and the sympathies of the entire Bougainville House of Representaives on the recent passing of Bishop of Bougainville of Bougainville, the late Bernard Unabli.

Bishop Unabali was a humble man of God whom I knew well. He had a commitment to his parishioners that was, without doubt, second to none. He was a strong proponent of peace and frequently used his position and influence to remind us all of what is right and good.

His loss will be deeply felt.

As a man of the people Bishop Unabali was not one to be attracted by the trappings of wealth or power. He never lost sight of his calling and was always available to those in need. As his health began to deteriorate in more recent times, he was admitted to Buka General Hospital, at first refusing care elsewhere, stating that was is good for the ordinary villager was good for him. Of course, as his illness progressed and his life began to hang in the balance, he first sought care in Port Moresby and then finally in the Philippines where his life sadly came to an end.

I ask that everyone join me in celebrating the life of the late Bishop Unabali. He is an example to us all of what public service truly means. We were blessed to have him as our Bishop and may he now rest in eternal peace.

Hon. Simon Pentanu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, authorizes this statement.

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