http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26549
Japan, ADB help for IDP welfare
31 Aug 2010 - 09:19
Manila, Philippines - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Japanese Government are providing financial assistance to help Sri Lanka restore infrastructure and provide livelihood training for thousands of internally displaced people who are returning to their homes following the end of terrorism.
The Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction, administered by ADB, is extending a US $2.5 million grant for a project that will provide cash-for-work and skills training for at least 2,500 families in five conflicted-affected districts in the North of the country.
It will assist in the rebuilding of about 100 kilometres of rural access roads and 200 kilometres of field irrigation canals, and will complement the separate ADB-assisted, Conflict Affected Region Emergency (CARE) Project, which is also helping to rehabilitate damaged and neglected infrastructure.
With the end of the conflict in May 2009, those displaced have started returning to their original areas of residence. However, the damage to rural infrastructure, including irrigation systems, has deprived them of the means of earning a living.
“The project provides opportunities for vulnerable groups in resettled areas to get immediate income from the repair of damaged infrastructure, as well as skills training for future livelihood activities,” ADB’s Sri Lanka Resident Mission Senior Project Implementation Officer, K. M. Tilakaratne said. The cash-for-work program will provide jobs for about at least 2,500 resettled people to restore and maintain irrigation systems and access roads in the districts of Jaffna, Killinochchi, Mannar, Mullaitivu and Vavuniya.
A further 2,000 of these people will get training in modern sustainable agricultural production practices, the marketing of farm goods, food processing and other self-employment skills.
Selection for the two activities will be limited to one eligible male, or female member of each resettled family.
The project has a number of innovative features, with those in the cash-for-work program required to open savings accounts and deposit 25 percent of their incomes for use in future livelihood creation activities. Community-based organizations will be set up at the resettlement villages to oversee the project, and since most villagers have no experience with banks, they will hold savings passbooks over the course of the program to ensure participants comply with the deposit requirement. At least 50 percent or more of those selected for the work program and skills development training will be women.
Along with the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction Grant, the Sri Lankan Government will provide assistance of US $150,000, with communities making an in-kind contribution of US $137,500 for a total project cost of US $2.78 million. The Economic Development Ministry is the executing agency for the project which will be implemented over 30 months with an expected completion date of December 2012. Courtesy:dailynews.lk
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
22 Division Soldiers Add Their Weight to National Dengue Eradication Campaign
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26565
22 Division Soldiers Add Their Weight to National Dengue Eradication Campaign
31 Aug 2010 - 14:31
Army officers and soldiers serving the 22 Division in Trincomalee added their weight to ongoing island-wide Dengue eradication programme.
Trincomalee town and its outskirts including Anuradhapura junction, Singhapura, Andamkulam and 4th mile post that come under the Uppuweli Public Health Inspector’s supervision were covered during this one-day cleaning campaign by Army soldiers with the support of the general public.
Following directions given by Brigadier A. K. S Perera, General Officer Commanding, 22 Division, officers and soldiers in different units joined hands together with civilians for this mammoth campaign, now a national requirement in the wake of increasing threat of Dengue. Courtesy:army.lk
22 Division Soldiers Add Their Weight to National Dengue Eradication Campaign
31 Aug 2010 - 14:31
Army officers and soldiers serving the 22 Division in Trincomalee added their weight to ongoing island-wide Dengue eradication programme.
Trincomalee town and its outskirts including Anuradhapura junction, Singhapura, Andamkulam and 4th mile post that come under the Uppuweli Public Health Inspector’s supervision were covered during this one-day cleaning campaign by Army soldiers with the support of the general public.
Following directions given by Brigadier A. K. S Perera, General Officer Commanding, 22 Division, officers and soldiers in different units joined hands together with civilians for this mammoth campaign, now a national requirement in the wake of increasing threat of Dengue. Courtesy:army.lk
Tamil refugee seekers transiting in Thailand - The Globe and Mail
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_01
Tamil refugee seekers transiting in Thailand - The Globe and Mail
'Entire operation fuelled by enormous amounts of money'
Tamil refugee seekers use Thailand as a transit location, waiting to ship for Canada, Canada's 'The Globe and Mail' reported.
Although some are in the country on two-week tourist visas, they sign nine-month leases on rooms at just over $100 per room per month, 'The Globe and Mail' said in a report published today (30 Aug).
'The entire operation is fuelled by enormous amounts of money', it said.
'Those familiar with the workings of an alleged Tamil Tiger human-smuggling ring say the Tamils are in fact in transit. They are waiting for the next boat to take them to Canada, as the MV Sun Sea did for 492 Tamil asylum seekers who arrived in British Columbia via Thailand this month. And there are at least several dozen more Tamils waiting at other addresses visited by The Globe and Mail in and around Bangkok', the report said.
The newspaper further states, 'Though claiming to be tourists, they show little interest in seeing the sights of the Thai capital...They rarely venture outside their one-room apartment on the outskirts of the Thai capital. They sit together on the bed, endlessly watching old movies in English and Thai that they barely understand'.
They have a standard answer when asked why they have come to Thailand: "Tourists. Arrived last week. Leaving next week."
"The people who arranged the Sun Sea are arranging another boat now. I don't know how long it will be [before it's ready to depart]," said a well-known member of Bangkok's Tamil community who spoke on the condition of anonymity, The Globe and Mail reported.
Asked whether any of them hope to travel onwards to Canada, the waiting men whisper among themselves in Tamil before denying any interest in following those who recently passed through Thailand before boarding the MV Sun Sea for Canada. The Tamils smile widely at the mention of faraway Canada, but stick to their line that they're in Thailand as tourists.
Staff at lodges says that it's actually a rotating cast of Tamils who use the apartments. "They don't stay here long. They come in groups of four or five, stay for a while, and then leave. Then another group comes," said a manager of a lodge.
If the Tamils are indeed hoping to go to Canada, they'll be following a trail blazed by those who recently made the perilous 10-week journey across the Pacific Ocean aboard the Sun Sea. Thai police sources say the majority of those who transited through Thailand before boarding the Sun Sea - which left from the southern port city of Songkhla some time in April - were recent arrivals who entered the country on tourist visas shortly before the ship departed.
On May 1, Thai authorities made note of an estimated 120 Tamils who travelled in a caravan from Bangkok to a fishing hamlet near Songkhla before apparently boarding small craft that took them to a rendezvous with the Sun Sea in the Gulf of Thailand. Two and a half weeks later, another group of 40 Tamil tourists checked in en masse at a hotel in Songkhla before heading to the port the same night and boarding fishing boats that are again believed to have met the Sun Sea, The Globe and Mail reported.
Courtesy : The Official Website of the Government of Sri Lanka
Tamil refugee seekers transiting in Thailand - The Globe and Mail
'Entire operation fuelled by enormous amounts of money'
Tamil refugee seekers use Thailand as a transit location, waiting to ship for Canada, Canada's 'The Globe and Mail' reported.
Although some are in the country on two-week tourist visas, they sign nine-month leases on rooms at just over $100 per room per month, 'The Globe and Mail' said in a report published today (30 Aug).
'The entire operation is fuelled by enormous amounts of money', it said.
'Those familiar with the workings of an alleged Tamil Tiger human-smuggling ring say the Tamils are in fact in transit. They are waiting for the next boat to take them to Canada, as the MV Sun Sea did for 492 Tamil asylum seekers who arrived in British Columbia via Thailand this month. And there are at least several dozen more Tamils waiting at other addresses visited by The Globe and Mail in and around Bangkok', the report said.
The newspaper further states, 'Though claiming to be tourists, they show little interest in seeing the sights of the Thai capital...They rarely venture outside their one-room apartment on the outskirts of the Thai capital. They sit together on the bed, endlessly watching old movies in English and Thai that they barely understand'.
They have a standard answer when asked why they have come to Thailand: "Tourists. Arrived last week. Leaving next week."
"The people who arranged the Sun Sea are arranging another boat now. I don't know how long it will be [before it's ready to depart]," said a well-known member of Bangkok's Tamil community who spoke on the condition of anonymity, The Globe and Mail reported.
Asked whether any of them hope to travel onwards to Canada, the waiting men whisper among themselves in Tamil before denying any interest in following those who recently passed through Thailand before boarding the MV Sun Sea for Canada. The Tamils smile widely at the mention of faraway Canada, but stick to their line that they're in Thailand as tourists.
Staff at lodges says that it's actually a rotating cast of Tamils who use the apartments. "They don't stay here long. They come in groups of four or five, stay for a while, and then leave. Then another group comes," said a manager of a lodge.
If the Tamils are indeed hoping to go to Canada, they'll be following a trail blazed by those who recently made the perilous 10-week journey across the Pacific Ocean aboard the Sun Sea. Thai police sources say the majority of those who transited through Thailand before boarding the Sun Sea - which left from the southern port city of Songkhla some time in April - were recent arrivals who entered the country on tourist visas shortly before the ship departed.
On May 1, Thai authorities made note of an estimated 120 Tamils who travelled in a caravan from Bangkok to a fishing hamlet near Songkhla before apparently boarding small craft that took them to a rendezvous with the Sun Sea in the Gulf of Thailand. Two and a half weeks later, another group of 40 Tamil tourists checked in en masse at a hotel in Songkhla before heading to the port the same night and boarding fishing boats that are again believed to have met the Sun Sea, The Globe and Mail reported.
Courtesy : The Official Website of the Government of Sri Lanka
SL made progress in preventing human trafficking - US report
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_08
SL made progress in preventing human trafficking - US report
The Sri Lankan government made progress in its efforts to prevent human trafficking, according to the 'Country Reports on Trafficking in Persons 2010' published by the Embassy of the United State in Colombo.
Stating that the laws introduced in Sri Lanka are helpful in this regard, it adds, "Sri Lanka prohibits all forms of trafficking through an April 2006 amendment to its penal code, which prescribes punishments of up to 20 years' imprisonment. These penalties are sufficiently stringent and commensurate with those prescribed for other serious offenses, such as rape".
The Sri Lankan Parliament passed a new act in September 2009 that expanded the powers of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) to prosecute recruitment agents who engage in fraudulent recruitment, the US report further said.
In recent years, the Sri Lanka government claimed that it would finalize a circular which would advise police on identifying potential trafficking victims among women detained for prostitution, as well as a ranking system that would publicly grade all employment agencies, it added.
"The National Child Protective Authority conducted awareness campaigns to educate the general public about the dangers of trafficking. The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) conducted public outreach events to warn people of the dangers of going abroad illegally and using unlicensed recruitment agencies to find work, and also required all workers to receive pre-departure training which included a labor rights component", stated the report.
In measures that could prevent Transnational labor trafficking of Sri Lankans, the government conducted 184 raids of fraudulent foreign recruiting agencies and took legal action against 12 of them, resulting in fines ranging from $200 to $1,000, the US report said.
While most Sri Lankans have birth certificates and (after the age of 16) national identity cards, many of the 250,000 to 350,000 internally displaced people - a group very vulnerable to trafficking - did not have these documents. The Government of Sri Lanka forged a partnership with UNDP to conduct 16 mobile documentation clinics for conflict-affected people, reaching over 29,000 people in 2009, the report stated.
The report also added that the Ministry of Defence provided training to all Sri Lankan peacekeepers prior to their deployments for international peacekeeping missions on their obligations, duties, responsibilities, and potential disciplinary action, relating to human rights, including trafficking.
It also said that Sri Lanka sent 39 delegations to 22 different labor-receiving countries for meetings, including discussions on ways to improve the rights and conditions of Sri Lankan migrant workers.
Courtesy - PRIU
SL made progress in preventing human trafficking - US report
The Sri Lankan government made progress in its efforts to prevent human trafficking, according to the 'Country Reports on Trafficking in Persons 2010' published by the Embassy of the United State in Colombo.
Stating that the laws introduced in Sri Lanka are helpful in this regard, it adds, "Sri Lanka prohibits all forms of trafficking through an April 2006 amendment to its penal code, which prescribes punishments of up to 20 years' imprisonment. These penalties are sufficiently stringent and commensurate with those prescribed for other serious offenses, such as rape".
The Sri Lankan Parliament passed a new act in September 2009 that expanded the powers of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) to prosecute recruitment agents who engage in fraudulent recruitment, the US report further said.
In recent years, the Sri Lanka government claimed that it would finalize a circular which would advise police on identifying potential trafficking victims among women detained for prostitution, as well as a ranking system that would publicly grade all employment agencies, it added.
"The National Child Protective Authority conducted awareness campaigns to educate the general public about the dangers of trafficking. The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) conducted public outreach events to warn people of the dangers of going abroad illegally and using unlicensed recruitment agencies to find work, and also required all workers to receive pre-departure training which included a labor rights component", stated the report.
In measures that could prevent Transnational labor trafficking of Sri Lankans, the government conducted 184 raids of fraudulent foreign recruiting agencies and took legal action against 12 of them, resulting in fines ranging from $200 to $1,000, the US report said.
While most Sri Lankans have birth certificates and (after the age of 16) national identity cards, many of the 250,000 to 350,000 internally displaced people - a group very vulnerable to trafficking - did not have these documents. The Government of Sri Lanka forged a partnership with UNDP to conduct 16 mobile documentation clinics for conflict-affected people, reaching over 29,000 people in 2009, the report stated.
The report also added that the Ministry of Defence provided training to all Sri Lankan peacekeepers prior to their deployments for international peacekeeping missions on their obligations, duties, responsibilities, and potential disciplinary action, relating to human rights, including trafficking.
It also said that Sri Lanka sent 39 delegations to 22 different labor-receiving countries for meetings, including discussions on ways to improve the rights and conditions of Sri Lankan migrant workers.
Courtesy - PRIU
One more new NGO takes to demining in North at Army request
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_09
One more new NGO takes to demining in North at Army request
www.defence.lk">The current demining projects in the north were to have more and more teeth as one more Non Governmental Organization (NGO) joined the bandwagon in order to expedite and further expand ongoing humanitarian demining roles, following an initiative taken by Security Forces Headquarters, Kilinochchi.
The latest and the newest NGO, Delvon Assistance for Social Harmony (DASH) with a team of about 29 deminers a few days ago inaugurated its maiden project in areas surrounding the strategic Elephant Pass at the request of the Army deminers, pioneers in the sphere of demining since the government is prioritizing the reopening of the defunct Elephant Pass saltern.
DASH team, spearheaded by its Programme Manager, Brigadier Ananda Chandrasiri (Retd), a reputed former Engineer Officer in the Army, has earlier cooperated with the Danish Demining Group (DDG) before the DASH began operational on its own as the requirement for speedy excavation of mines was fast swelling.
The inaugural occasion at the old saltern complex in Elephant Pass adorned ceremonial garbs as Major General Chandana Rajaguru, Commander, Security Forces- Kilinochchi, Ms. Dulani Sirisena, Senior Programme Officer of AusAID, Mr. Chris Bath, Country Programme Manager - Danish Demining Group (DDG) Sri Lanka, Mr. Mark Livingstone, Operations Manager - DDG Sri Lanka, Lieutenant Colonel Deepal Subasinghe (Retd), Chairman - DASH and a number of state officials, military officers and officials of various mine action organizations, assembled at the venue to extend their greetings to the new partner in demining.
Sri Lanka Army identified the area and requested the new organization to prioritize the specified area.
This first independent demining assignment is funded by AusAID, the Australian government's wing for international development assistance. Brigadier Chandrasiri (Retd) in his brief address to the occasion appreciated the DDG's support for grooming DASH and explained its availability of expertise and experience at every level of its organizational structure to carry out its responsibilities in conformity with expectations of the government.
The Elephant Pass saltern which has a land mass of over 1,600 acres had significantly contributed to the country's salt production until it ceased to function in 1990 with the escalation of LTTE hostilities. At the time of its closure, the saltern had 300 permanent employees and 200 casual workers in addition to a seasonal workforce of about 1,500 men and women.
The government, determined to boost the economy has planned to recommence the production process as early as possible providing a number of much-needed job opportunities for newly resettled people.
Courtesy : SL Army
One more new NGO takes to demining in North at Army request
www.defence.lk">The current demining projects in the north were to have more and more teeth as one more Non Governmental Organization (NGO) joined the bandwagon in order to expedite and further expand ongoing humanitarian demining roles, following an initiative taken by Security Forces Headquarters, Kilinochchi.
The latest and the newest NGO, Delvon Assistance for Social Harmony (DASH) with a team of about 29 deminers a few days ago inaugurated its maiden project in areas surrounding the strategic Elephant Pass at the request of the Army deminers, pioneers in the sphere of demining since the government is prioritizing the reopening of the defunct Elephant Pass saltern.
DASH team, spearheaded by its Programme Manager, Brigadier Ananda Chandrasiri (Retd), a reputed former Engineer Officer in the Army, has earlier cooperated with the Danish Demining Group (DDG) before the DASH began operational on its own as the requirement for speedy excavation of mines was fast swelling.
The inaugural occasion at the old saltern complex in Elephant Pass adorned ceremonial garbs as Major General Chandana Rajaguru, Commander, Security Forces- Kilinochchi, Ms. Dulani Sirisena, Senior Programme Officer of AusAID, Mr. Chris Bath, Country Programme Manager - Danish Demining Group (DDG) Sri Lanka, Mr. Mark Livingstone, Operations Manager - DDG Sri Lanka, Lieutenant Colonel Deepal Subasinghe (Retd), Chairman - DASH and a number of state officials, military officers and officials of various mine action organizations, assembled at the venue to extend their greetings to the new partner in demining.
Sri Lanka Army identified the area and requested the new organization to prioritize the specified area.
This first independent demining assignment is funded by AusAID, the Australian government's wing for international development assistance. Brigadier Chandrasiri (Retd) in his brief address to the occasion appreciated the DDG's support for grooming DASH and explained its availability of expertise and experience at every level of its organizational structure to carry out its responsibilities in conformity with expectations of the government.
The Elephant Pass saltern which has a land mass of over 1,600 acres had significantly contributed to the country's salt production until it ceased to function in 1990 with the escalation of LTTE hostilities. At the time of its closure, the saltern had 300 permanent employees and 200 casual workers in addition to a seasonal workforce of about 1,500 men and women.
The government, determined to boost the economy has planned to recommence the production process as early as possible providing a number of much-needed job opportunities for newly resettled people.
Courtesy : SL Army
Livelihood development program a success in Mullaittivu
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_03
Livelihood development program a success in Mullaittivu
A production of 130,000 liters of cow milk has been recorded during the past seven months of this year in the Mullaittivu District, said Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Monday (Aug 30).
This was revealed during a press conference held at the District Secretariat Office in Mullaittivu, following the Minister's visit. Addressing the press, Minister Rajapaksa said that, the drive to develop dairy farming in Mullaittivu while improving living standards of the resettled families has proved a success.
According to Minister Rajapaksa, 30,000 acres are expected to be cultivated in Mullaittivu District during the next Maha period, along with while another 34,000 acres of subsidiary crops.
Minister Rajapaksa who appreciated the progress achieved so far on this front directed officials to expedite the provision of financial assistance and other urgent requirements needed by the resettled families. He also directed officials to ensure proper irrigation and drinking water facilities to the resettled.
The required spraying machines, agricultural implements, fertilizer and quality planting materials have also been provided to cultivators in the District which had enabled to bring normalcy to the livelihood of the resettled people.
Ministers Douglas Devananda, Patali Champika Ranawaka and P. Dayaratne, Mullaitivu District Secretary S Vedanayagam, Secretary Presidential Task Force on Resettlement, Development and Security in the North S B Divaratne and Presidential Advisor Chandra Fernando were also present at the Press conference.
Livelihood development program a success in Mullaittivu
A production of 130,000 liters of cow milk has been recorded during the past seven months of this year in the Mullaittivu District, said Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Monday (Aug 30).
This was revealed during a press conference held at the District Secretariat Office in Mullaittivu, following the Minister's visit. Addressing the press, Minister Rajapaksa said that, the drive to develop dairy farming in Mullaittivu while improving living standards of the resettled families has proved a success.
According to Minister Rajapaksa, 30,000 acres are expected to be cultivated in Mullaittivu District during the next Maha period, along with while another 34,000 acres of subsidiary crops.
Minister Rajapaksa who appreciated the progress achieved so far on this front directed officials to expedite the provision of financial assistance and other urgent requirements needed by the resettled families. He also directed officials to ensure proper irrigation and drinking water facilities to the resettled.
The required spraying machines, agricultural implements, fertilizer and quality planting materials have also been provided to cultivators in the District which had enabled to bring normalcy to the livelihood of the resettled people.
Ministers Douglas Devananda, Patali Champika Ranawaka and P. Dayaratne, Mullaitivu District Secretary S Vedanayagam, Secretary Presidential Task Force on Resettlement, Development and Security in the North S B Divaratne and Presidential Advisor Chandra Fernando were also present at the Press conference.
India to construct new Agriculture and Engineering Faculty for Jaffna University
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_05
India to construct new Agriculture and Engineering Faculty for Jaffna University
The Indian Government has consented to construct an Agriculture and Engineering faculty equipped with hi-tech laboratories for the Jaffna University on a 300-acre site in Ariviyal, in the Kilinochchi District, Minister of Higher Education S. B. Dissanayake said on Sunday, 29th August, at the Jaffna University.
Minister S.B Diaasanayaka who had a series of discussions at the Jaffna University last Sunday, is to visit the site at Ariviyal Nagar, 7 km from the Kilinochchi town, today, 31st August. Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Prof. Gamini Samaranayake, Governor of the Northern Province Maj Gen (Retd) G. A. Chandrasiri, Vice Chancellor of the Jaffna University Prof. N. Shanmugalingam and District Secretary for Kilinochchi Rupawathi Ketheeswaran are expected to be present in Ariviyal.
During his visit on Sunday, Minister Dissanayake laid the foundation stone at the Jaffna Campus to construct the Allied Health Science Faculty at a cost of rupees 30 million. Further, it is scheduled to distribute a financial grant for the welfare of around 350 Jaffna University students, during his visit. Students who released from the rehabilitation centers and others from IDP camps will receive financial grant, an official said.
The Minister is scheduled to visit the university Hostel in the Jaffna town constructed by the Kuwaiti government following the Tsunami disaster.
The Minister is to conclude his four-day visit to the Jaffna Campus by visiting the faculties of Applied Sciences and Business Studies to speak to the 400 or more students at the Vavuniya University.
India to construct new Agriculture and Engineering Faculty for Jaffna University
The Indian Government has consented to construct an Agriculture and Engineering faculty equipped with hi-tech laboratories for the Jaffna University on a 300-acre site in Ariviyal, in the Kilinochchi District, Minister of Higher Education S. B. Dissanayake said on Sunday, 29th August, at the Jaffna University.
Minister S.B Diaasanayaka who had a series of discussions at the Jaffna University last Sunday, is to visit the site at Ariviyal Nagar, 7 km from the Kilinochchi town, today, 31st August. Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Prof. Gamini Samaranayake, Governor of the Northern Province Maj Gen (Retd) G. A. Chandrasiri, Vice Chancellor of the Jaffna University Prof. N. Shanmugalingam and District Secretary for Kilinochchi Rupawathi Ketheeswaran are expected to be present in Ariviyal.
During his visit on Sunday, Minister Dissanayake laid the foundation stone at the Jaffna Campus to construct the Allied Health Science Faculty at a cost of rupees 30 million. Further, it is scheduled to distribute a financial grant for the welfare of around 350 Jaffna University students, during his visit. Students who released from the rehabilitation centers and others from IDP camps will receive financial grant, an official said.
The Minister is scheduled to visit the university Hostel in the Jaffna town constructed by the Kuwaiti government following the Tsunami disaster.
The Minister is to conclude his four-day visit to the Jaffna Campus by visiting the faculties of Applied Sciences and Business Studies to speak to the 400 or more students at the Vavuniya University.
Another 500 ex- combatants to be reintegrated into society
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100831_04
Another 500 ex- combatants to be reintegrated into society
Another batch of 500 ex- combatants who had been rehabilitated and retrained as skilled labours are getting ready to return to their native places. Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brig. Sudantha Ranasinghe said.
Brig. Ranasinghe further explained that they will be reintegrated into society on the instructions of the President and the Defence Secretary. The release of these rehabilitated cadres will take place on the 4th of next month at the Pompemadu Rehabilitation Centre in Vavuniya, under the patronage of Minister Dew Gunasekera.
In parallel to this event, a cultural pageant, a musical show and a model show have also scheduled to be held.
Another 500 ex- combatants to be reintegrated into society
Another batch of 500 ex- combatants who had been rehabilitated and retrained as skilled labours are getting ready to return to their native places. Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brig. Sudantha Ranasinghe said.
Brig. Ranasinghe further explained that they will be reintegrated into society on the instructions of the President and the Defence Secretary. The release of these rehabilitated cadres will take place on the 4th of next month at the Pompemadu Rehabilitation Centre in Vavuniya, under the patronage of Minister Dew Gunasekera.
In parallel to this event, a cultural pageant, a musical show and a model show have also scheduled to be held.
332km length of Northern Roadways to be developed with Chinese funding of US $ 3.5 billion
http://www.news.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16206&Itemid=44
332km length of Northern Roadways to be developed with Chinese funding of US $ 3.5 billion
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
A major road rehabilitation and development project is to be undertaken by the Government with Chinese financial assistance in the Northern province. Accordingly, 332km length of roads inclusive of Kandy- Jaffna A9 highway will be developed and modernized on a proposal by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
This road development project covering the most part of Northern Province will help to revive the economic activities of the northern communities who have economically suffered for a long term because of the terrorism. It is also estimated that the economic benefits of these projects to the country as a whole will be far in excess of the financial cost of the project.Accordingly, 153km length of Kandy -Jaffna A9 highway from Galkulama to Jaffna will be rehabilitated and modernized as part of the main gateway to the Northern Province. The other roadways that will be developed under this projects are 84km length of Jaffna – Point Pedro AB20 road, Puttur – Meesalai AB32 road and Jaffna – Palai AB18 roadways.Rehabilitation and improvement of 95km length of the of B334, B297 and B296 roads will also take place covering the areas of Mulativu – Kokilai – Pulmudai roadway, Oddusudan – Nedunkerney roadway and the Mullativu – Puliyankulam roadways as separate projects.The total cost of this project will be US 355 million of which 85% will be financed by the Government of China while the local component of 15% will be borne by the government of Sri Lanka.
332km length of Northern Roadways to be developed with Chinese funding of US $ 3.5 billion
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
A major road rehabilitation and development project is to be undertaken by the Government with Chinese financial assistance in the Northern province. Accordingly, 332km length of roads inclusive of Kandy- Jaffna A9 highway will be developed and modernized on a proposal by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
This road development project covering the most part of Northern Province will help to revive the economic activities of the northern communities who have economically suffered for a long term because of the terrorism. It is also estimated that the economic benefits of these projects to the country as a whole will be far in excess of the financial cost of the project.Accordingly, 153km length of Kandy -Jaffna A9 highway from Galkulama to Jaffna will be rehabilitated and modernized as part of the main gateway to the Northern Province. The other roadways that will be developed under this projects are 84km length of Jaffna – Point Pedro AB20 road, Puttur – Meesalai AB32 road and Jaffna – Palai AB18 roadways.Rehabilitation and improvement of 95km length of the of B334, B297 and B296 roads will also take place covering the areas of Mulativu – Kokilai – Pulmudai roadway, Oddusudan – Nedunkerney roadway and the Mullativu – Puliyankulam roadways as separate projects.The total cost of this project will be US 355 million of which 85% will be financed by the Government of China while the local component of 15% will be borne by the government of Sri Lanka.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010Soft targets for asylum seekers
http://www.srilankaguardian.org/2010/08/soft-targets-for-asylum-seekers.html
Monday, August 30, 2010
Soft targets for asylum seekers
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by Sarath Wiesinghe (August 30, UAE, Sri Lanka Guardian) Ship Sun See was initially sailing towards Australia with 490 Sri Lankans allegedly seeking Asylum in some country with resources and a comfortable life. Anybody fleeing the birthplace in fear of persecution will be prepared to go to the closest safe haven, if they are genuine refugees defined in the refugee convention of 1951 and the protocol still in force though thoroughly outdated as the United Nations itself which is 61 years old and needs reforms as early as possible. These Asylum seekers need either Australia or Canada where Asylum Law and procedure is mild and soft for those who claim asylum on the grounds of persecution due to race, religion, ethnicity or similar circumstances defined in the refugee convention to which most countries including Australia and Canada has become a signatory. They do not claim asylum in India or Malaysia which are closer and more accessible if they are genuine asylum seekers. Apparently Canada has over 300,000 Tamil population most of who have come as refugees who strongly voice for the inmates of the ship currently stationed in Canada whose applications are being processed. 76 Sri Lankans who travelled previously in similar circumstances too have been processed to be asylum seekers to be considered to be given the facilities on housing, social security and education free. Canada too has identified LTTE as a terrorist organization which is wounded and completely wiped out from Sri Lanka with no iota or remnants of terror which terrorized the entire world over three decades as most feared and dangerous terrorist outfit on the globe. Enormous sums accumulated by drug and human smuggling is still in circulation among the Tamil Diaspora to be used on Drug/ human smuggling and on reorganizing the LTTE as social front organizations in soft targeted countries such as UK, Canada and Australia. Ship Sun See is a part of the LTTE propaganda and an adventure to be followed if and when proved successful. First attempts were proved successful due to the support and masterminds of the international network of the human smuggling chain linked to drug and international underworld. Sri Lanka is a senior and a respected member of the United Nations and a signatory of main human rights conventions and protocols in the area of human rights. It has a fine human rights mechanism with an effective and independent judiciary with a chapter on fundamental rights in the constitution with easy access and an effective legal aid system on the British Modal. System of education judiciary and governance is similar to the system in the United Kingdom. Human rights Commission is strong and effective and NGO’s in Sri Lanka are the most powerful and rich receiving a sizeable income from the UN and affiliated non governmental organizations. NGO’s in Sri Lanka is the richest and the officers enjoy the best of all worlds with the foreign funds received in abundance freely with no checks or scrutiny. They are champions of the human rights industry thriving on money and used judicial activism and public interest litigation which gives wide world wide publicity which attracts billions of foreign funds. Private Media is powerful and vibrant and Government media is less effective as the human rights industry in Sri Lanka is lucrative and effective. In fat the most effective human rights mechanism in the world is set up in Sri Lanka with the establishment of a powerful human rights council, independent and vibrant judiciary and well established legal system and a net work of local and international NGO’s effectively and jealously protecting human rights with the help of the United Nations and a section of the international community. Sri Lanka is a free country today with these luxuries on human rights and all kinds of freedoms. North and East of Sri Lanka is completely liberated from defunk LTTE once a powerful and fared terrorist organization trying to regroup with a part of misguided Diaspora. Their shadows are haunting with the remnants of illegal funds collected during the war and the activism of the misguided Diaspora accusing the Sri Lankan government of violations of human rights. Visitors to North and East have exceeded to 500000 a month and the life in the North and east is fine and transparent. Ethnic harmony and to live in harmony is the main theme of the majority Tamil population followed by Muslims and Sinhalese. The other amazing and beautiful situation is that in Colombo the capital of Sri Lanka Tamil population is the majority followed by Muslims and Sinhalese. Tamils and Muslims prefer to live with Sinhalese in Colombo and suburbs. This is a unique situation the diplomatic community in Sri Lanka should witness personally without listening to disgruntled politicians and fat cat NGO’s aiming at more and more funds for different agendas. Ethnic harmony is Sri Lanka is more stabilized in Sri Lanka than the United Kingdom or any part of Europe. In France it is illegal to wear the traditional Muslim head cover. The immigration laws are now tough in UK and France. Immigration offences have become criminal. Organized immigration rackets have been broken after learning from bitter experiences and after having infested one time safe London an unsafe criminal infested city, mainly due to illegal immigrants who have destabilized the society and has become a pest to the law abiding and tax paying citizens engaged in illegal activities including false social security claims in large scale. In the UK illeal immigrants become legal after spending 14 years. It is easy to be underground for 14 years and claim the citizenship rights which is very often done by the illegal immigrants.Depending on the success of Ship Sun See there will be more and more ships sailing towards Canada to join the Diaspora which is a powerful voice politically and economically as powerful as in UK, Germany, EU and USA. Are these Asylum seekers genuine or economic migrants? Do they come within the ambit of the definition of a refugee alum are matters for the immigration authorities to decide which depends on the situation then. When an aircraft full of Afghans landed forcibly in Heathrow there was a wave of protests. But in the end all were granted Asylum due to various pressure groups and NGO’s. Why are the asylum claimants in Sun See hiding their identities? Some may be non Sri Lankans and rich people from all parts of the country looking for a better and a better life for the children they carry with themselves. Now UK has learned a bitter lesson and tightened their immigrations rules. It about is no longer a soft target. In UK is as hard as USA and France too have followed suit. Ship Sun See has charged $50,000 per head is a sweep for the asylum seekers for generations. They will get free housing, education, food, medicine and rights for the next generation as Canadian Citizens. We do not mind Canada giving all the benefits to Sri Lankan citizens looking for green pastors- but not at the cost of the reputation and good name of Sri Lanka. Why do those in the ship hide the identity? If the identities are traced it will be established they are economic migrants looking for green pesters. What about the children and the families including elders. They exactly know what they are heading for and they are properly briefed by the organized ring to face the impending inquiries from the immigration officers.End result in this scenario is certain. All 490 will be given asylum on humanitarian grounds which will give a boost and a lifeline for the organized ring of human trafficking. According to Lakbima English weekly LTTE has made 20 million Canadian dollars from this voyage alone! Profits would be spent to review LTTE which is wounded and ailing which has completely eradicated from Sri Lankan soil. 160 were arrested recently who have paid over 600,000 per head to the ring leaders to travel to Canada or Australia. If the second attempt is successful there will be fleets of ships with live human bodies supported by the activism in courts and ine international ring of human smugglers. It will be too late when Canada realizes the mistake as when LTTE is established in a country it is going to be worst that Alkadia, which is confined to a limited area with limited support and resources. Every shipload would bring billions to the coffers of the LTTE! They will certainly adopt new tactics and methods as the income is so lucrative and attractive. This will go on until they find Canada is no longer a sift target and they will earn the lesson after having gone through this process as has been done in the UK and France.( The Writer, Sri Lankan Ambassador to United Arab Emirates )
Monday, August 30, 2010
Soft targets for asylum seekers
.fullpost{display:inline;}
by Sarath Wiesinghe (August 30, UAE, Sri Lanka Guardian) Ship Sun See was initially sailing towards Australia with 490 Sri Lankans allegedly seeking Asylum in some country with resources and a comfortable life. Anybody fleeing the birthplace in fear of persecution will be prepared to go to the closest safe haven, if they are genuine refugees defined in the refugee convention of 1951 and the protocol still in force though thoroughly outdated as the United Nations itself which is 61 years old and needs reforms as early as possible. These Asylum seekers need either Australia or Canada where Asylum Law and procedure is mild and soft for those who claim asylum on the grounds of persecution due to race, religion, ethnicity or similar circumstances defined in the refugee convention to which most countries including Australia and Canada has become a signatory. They do not claim asylum in India or Malaysia which are closer and more accessible if they are genuine asylum seekers. Apparently Canada has over 300,000 Tamil population most of who have come as refugees who strongly voice for the inmates of the ship currently stationed in Canada whose applications are being processed. 76 Sri Lankans who travelled previously in similar circumstances too have been processed to be asylum seekers to be considered to be given the facilities on housing, social security and education free. Canada too has identified LTTE as a terrorist organization which is wounded and completely wiped out from Sri Lanka with no iota or remnants of terror which terrorized the entire world over three decades as most feared and dangerous terrorist outfit on the globe. Enormous sums accumulated by drug and human smuggling is still in circulation among the Tamil Diaspora to be used on Drug/ human smuggling and on reorganizing the LTTE as social front organizations in soft targeted countries such as UK, Canada and Australia. Ship Sun See is a part of the LTTE propaganda and an adventure to be followed if and when proved successful. First attempts were proved successful due to the support and masterminds of the international network of the human smuggling chain linked to drug and international underworld. Sri Lanka is a senior and a respected member of the United Nations and a signatory of main human rights conventions and protocols in the area of human rights. It has a fine human rights mechanism with an effective and independent judiciary with a chapter on fundamental rights in the constitution with easy access and an effective legal aid system on the British Modal. System of education judiciary and governance is similar to the system in the United Kingdom. Human rights Commission is strong and effective and NGO’s in Sri Lanka are the most powerful and rich receiving a sizeable income from the UN and affiliated non governmental organizations. NGO’s in Sri Lanka is the richest and the officers enjoy the best of all worlds with the foreign funds received in abundance freely with no checks or scrutiny. They are champions of the human rights industry thriving on money and used judicial activism and public interest litigation which gives wide world wide publicity which attracts billions of foreign funds. Private Media is powerful and vibrant and Government media is less effective as the human rights industry in Sri Lanka is lucrative and effective. In fat the most effective human rights mechanism in the world is set up in Sri Lanka with the establishment of a powerful human rights council, independent and vibrant judiciary and well established legal system and a net work of local and international NGO’s effectively and jealously protecting human rights with the help of the United Nations and a section of the international community. Sri Lanka is a free country today with these luxuries on human rights and all kinds of freedoms. North and East of Sri Lanka is completely liberated from defunk LTTE once a powerful and fared terrorist organization trying to regroup with a part of misguided Diaspora. Their shadows are haunting with the remnants of illegal funds collected during the war and the activism of the misguided Diaspora accusing the Sri Lankan government of violations of human rights. Visitors to North and East have exceeded to 500000 a month and the life in the North and east is fine and transparent. Ethnic harmony and to live in harmony is the main theme of the majority Tamil population followed by Muslims and Sinhalese. The other amazing and beautiful situation is that in Colombo the capital of Sri Lanka Tamil population is the majority followed by Muslims and Sinhalese. Tamils and Muslims prefer to live with Sinhalese in Colombo and suburbs. This is a unique situation the diplomatic community in Sri Lanka should witness personally without listening to disgruntled politicians and fat cat NGO’s aiming at more and more funds for different agendas. Ethnic harmony is Sri Lanka is more stabilized in Sri Lanka than the United Kingdom or any part of Europe. In France it is illegal to wear the traditional Muslim head cover. The immigration laws are now tough in UK and France. Immigration offences have become criminal. Organized immigration rackets have been broken after learning from bitter experiences and after having infested one time safe London an unsafe criminal infested city, mainly due to illegal immigrants who have destabilized the society and has become a pest to the law abiding and tax paying citizens engaged in illegal activities including false social security claims in large scale. In the UK illeal immigrants become legal after spending 14 years. It is easy to be underground for 14 years and claim the citizenship rights which is very often done by the illegal immigrants.Depending on the success of Ship Sun See there will be more and more ships sailing towards Canada to join the Diaspora which is a powerful voice politically and economically as powerful as in UK, Germany, EU and USA. Are these Asylum seekers genuine or economic migrants? Do they come within the ambit of the definition of a refugee alum are matters for the immigration authorities to decide which depends on the situation then. When an aircraft full of Afghans landed forcibly in Heathrow there was a wave of protests. But in the end all were granted Asylum due to various pressure groups and NGO’s. Why are the asylum claimants in Sun See hiding their identities? Some may be non Sri Lankans and rich people from all parts of the country looking for a better and a better life for the children they carry with themselves. Now UK has learned a bitter lesson and tightened their immigrations rules. It about is no longer a soft target. In UK is as hard as USA and France too have followed suit. Ship Sun See has charged $50,000 per head is a sweep for the asylum seekers for generations. They will get free housing, education, food, medicine and rights for the next generation as Canadian Citizens. We do not mind Canada giving all the benefits to Sri Lankan citizens looking for green pastors- but not at the cost of the reputation and good name of Sri Lanka. Why do those in the ship hide the identity? If the identities are traced it will be established they are economic migrants looking for green pesters. What about the children and the families including elders. They exactly know what they are heading for and they are properly briefed by the organized ring to face the impending inquiries from the immigration officers.End result in this scenario is certain. All 490 will be given asylum on humanitarian grounds which will give a boost and a lifeline for the organized ring of human trafficking. According to Lakbima English weekly LTTE has made 20 million Canadian dollars from this voyage alone! Profits would be spent to review LTTE which is wounded and ailing which has completely eradicated from Sri Lankan soil. 160 were arrested recently who have paid over 600,000 per head to the ring leaders to travel to Canada or Australia. If the second attempt is successful there will be fleets of ships with live human bodies supported by the activism in courts and ine international ring of human smugglers. It will be too late when Canada realizes the mistake as when LTTE is established in a country it is going to be worst that Alkadia, which is confined to a limited area with limited support and resources. Every shipload would bring billions to the coffers of the LTTE! They will certainly adopt new tactics and methods as the income is so lucrative and attractive. This will go on until they find Canada is no longer a sift target and they will earn the lesson after having gone through this process as has been done in the UK and France.( The Writer, Sri Lankan Ambassador to United Arab Emirates )
North-South Business Bridge" to grab Northern youths to country's productivity
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100830_02
North-South Business Bridge" to grab Northern youths to country's productivity
The government has initiated a "North-South Business Bridge Program as part of the Gampaha Integrated Accelerated Program, bridging North and South towards sustainable development.
The aim of the programme is to make aware Jaffna youth on modern material and equipment and disseminate the business knowledge and technology from successful entrepreneurs of the Gampaha District to the Northern youth to boost opportunities to develop strong market linkages between Gampaha and Jaffna.
The Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Ministry with the assistance of the Industrial Development Board will steer the programme.
The Programme includes technology transfer programmes on Leather products, bakery, batiks, emulsion paint, handmade paper, fruit based products and cement based products.
The Tamil civilians under LTTE hostage were rescued by the government's humanitarian mission by May 2009. Since then, the government continued its mission to resettle those civilians in their native places and it is now nearing completion. The civilians who had been resettled in their native places in Kilinochchi, Mullaittivu and Mannar have begun their livelihood in a peaceful country with the assistance of government and security forces. Now their livelihood is becoming self-sufficient and the government is busy making programs to grab them in to the country's productivity in various ways.
North-South Business Bridge" to grab Northern youths to country's productivity
The government has initiated a "North-South Business Bridge Program as part of the Gampaha Integrated Accelerated Program, bridging North and South towards sustainable development.
The aim of the programme is to make aware Jaffna youth on modern material and equipment and disseminate the business knowledge and technology from successful entrepreneurs of the Gampaha District to the Northern youth to boost opportunities to develop strong market linkages between Gampaha and Jaffna.
The Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Ministry with the assistance of the Industrial Development Board will steer the programme.
The Programme includes technology transfer programmes on Leather products, bakery, batiks, emulsion paint, handmade paper, fruit based products and cement based products.
The Tamil civilians under LTTE hostage were rescued by the government's humanitarian mission by May 2009. Since then, the government continued its mission to resettle those civilians in their native places and it is now nearing completion. The civilians who had been resettled in their native places in Kilinochchi, Mullaittivu and Mannar have begun their livelihood in a peaceful country with the assistance of government and security forces. Now their livelihood is becoming self-sufficient and the government is busy making programs to grab them in to the country's productivity in various ways.
Permanent buildings for Northern Schools soon
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100829_02
Permanent buildings for Northern Schools soon
The government is taking steps to rehabilitate the education sector in Northern Province by providing infrastructure facilities for the children who had to abandon their schooling due to LTTE terrorist activities.
Accordingly, more Engineering and Technical Officers were appointed for re-construction activities to expedite the rehabilitation in the Education sector of the Northern Province under the directives of Governor Northern Province Major General G.A. Chandrasiri.
Further, measures have already been taken to reopen schools, until permanent buildings are reconstructed. Basic facilities such as classrooms, learning and teaching materials, text books and uniforms and welfare amenities have been provided.
Permanent buildings for Northern Schools soon
The government is taking steps to rehabilitate the education sector in Northern Province by providing infrastructure facilities for the children who had to abandon their schooling due to LTTE terrorist activities.
Accordingly, more Engineering and Technical Officers were appointed for re-construction activities to expedite the rehabilitation in the Education sector of the Northern Province under the directives of Governor Northern Province Major General G.A. Chandrasiri.
Further, measures have already been taken to reopen schools, until permanent buildings are reconstructed. Basic facilities such as classrooms, learning and teaching materials, text books and uniforms and welfare amenities have been provided.
Commander unveils cenotaph to honour Fallen Heroes
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100829_03
Commander unveils cenotaph to honour Fallen Heroes
First ever war heroes monument in Eastern Security Force Command area to honour the valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives fighting the separatist terrorist in the 30 year prolonged war was declared open by the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya on 28th August in Minneriya amidst a gathering of many distinguished guests and family members of war heroes.
The monument erected in a scenic site in the vicinity of the historic Minneriya Tank will be of reminiscence to all who travels to East through Minneriya, of the sacrifices made by the heroic soldiers in defending the integrity of the motherland.
The Chief Guest, Lieutenant General Jayasuriya was warmly welcomed by the Commandant of the Infantry Training Centre Minneriya, Brigadier Asoka Amuugama on arrival and ushered to the seat which was followed by a brief welcome speech by Brigadier Amunugama.
Thereafter the Chief Guest was accompanied to the monument where he unveiled the monument and a granite plaque with the engravings stating that the monument was declared open in honour of the Fallen Heroes who fought bravely to conquer the ruthless terrorists.
Commander of the Army paying his respect to the fallen heroes placed a wreath of flowers at the monument and saluted which was followed by the senior officers of the tri forces and police paying their floral tribute. Immediately after, beloved family members of fallen War Heroes paid their respect. They knelt down at the foot of the monument and went on shedding tears while laying bouquets of fragrant flowers. It was a solemn moment of memory.
Lieutenant General Jayasuriya illuminated the magnificent cenotaph as a mark of respect to the War Heroes. Then followed the military traditions as the Last Post, honouring their memory was heralded by buglers which marked the ending of the ceremony.
Commander unveils cenotaph to honour Fallen Heroes
First ever war heroes monument in Eastern Security Force Command area to honour the valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives fighting the separatist terrorist in the 30 year prolonged war was declared open by the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya on 28th August in Minneriya amidst a gathering of many distinguished guests and family members of war heroes.
The monument erected in a scenic site in the vicinity of the historic Minneriya Tank will be of reminiscence to all who travels to East through Minneriya, of the sacrifices made by the heroic soldiers in defending the integrity of the motherland.
The Chief Guest, Lieutenant General Jayasuriya was warmly welcomed by the Commandant of the Infantry Training Centre Minneriya, Brigadier Asoka Amuugama on arrival and ushered to the seat which was followed by a brief welcome speech by Brigadier Amunugama.
Thereafter the Chief Guest was accompanied to the monument where he unveiled the monument and a granite plaque with the engravings stating that the monument was declared open in honour of the Fallen Heroes who fought bravely to conquer the ruthless terrorists.
Commander of the Army paying his respect to the fallen heroes placed a wreath of flowers at the monument and saluted which was followed by the senior officers of the tri forces and police paying their floral tribute. Immediately after, beloved family members of fallen War Heroes paid their respect. They knelt down at the foot of the monument and went on shedding tears while laying bouquets of fragrant flowers. It was a solemn moment of memory.
Lieutenant General Jayasuriya illuminated the magnificent cenotaph as a mark of respect to the War Heroes. Then followed the military traditions as the Last Post, honouring their memory was heralded by buglers which marked the ending of the ceremony.
Last modified on: 8/28/2010 12:34:06 PM Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100828_04
Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
Over 1,541,880,972sqm cleared-off....
2,468,119,028sqm surveyed to be cleared in North and east - SLNMAC
In a recent report released the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Center (SLNMAC) concluded that as at June, 2010 a total area of 1,541,880,972sqm in North and East as cleared-off, while an area of 2,468,119,028sqm remaining to be swept by the Army engineering corps.
According to the report released, the estimated time required to clear-off the remaining area will be at-least 15 years. The 'annual clearance average' since 2002 is 171sqkm, the SLNMAC further noted.
However, experts are of the view that the estimated time could be reduced with the addition of more trained military personnel. Despite its inherent high-risk and danger involved- Army Engineering corps have done a commendable work with an unmatched efficiency, an official at the SLMAC said.
"Their lives(de-miners) are invaluable to ensure the safety of the people and also as a confidence building measure for the resettlement of people displaced by the mines and explosives indiscriminately 'sown' and deliberately laid by LTTE terrorists" the official further asserted. According to the Information Management System on Mine Action (INSMA), Sri Lanka, a total of 386,225,502 square meters of land was cleared between 01st January 2009 and 18 July 2010.
Applauding international assistance provided into mine clearing/sweeping efforts, SLNMAC added that, United States of America recently allocated US $ 500,000 (Rs 56 m) to "purchase more heavy vehicles for the Army Humanitarian Deming Unit".
Available information points out that, by 05th August 2010 Army de-miner to have cleared-off a total area of 679sqkm in the North and East. According to the Army's Non-Technical Survey (NTS) report an area of 23,566sqm have been cleared-off by the military by 05th August, 2010.
Around 850 square kilometers were cleared of LTTE land mines with the Army Engineers unearthing 23,566 Unexploded Ordnance(UXOs) 32,171 Anti Personnel mines(AP) , 123 anti tank mines and 23,566 UXOs. The Army de-mining teams consist of 31 Officers and 991 soldiers to unearth the deadly explosive devices
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reiterated that the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP's) will be re-settled only after the affected areas have been officially declared "MINE FREE". This principle has been strictly adhered to by the authorities. As a result , despite the inevitable delay due to the nature of the task involved , no casualties of resettled IDPs have been reported from areas declared "mine free" and has given the IDP confidence to resettle in their former villages and resume normal lives . The people are now free after over two decades of ruthless LTTE terrorism to resume normal lives, free from fear of their children been forcibly recruited by the LTTE as "child" soldiers.
Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
Over 1,541,880,972sqm cleared-off....
2,468,119,028sqm surveyed to be cleared in North and east - SLNMAC
In a recent report released the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Center (SLNMAC) concluded that as at June, 2010 a total area of 1,541,880,972sqm in North and East as cleared-off, while an area of 2,468,119,028sqm remaining to be swept by the Army engineering corps.
According to the report released, the estimated time required to clear-off the remaining area will be at-least 15 years. The 'annual clearance average' since 2002 is 171sqkm, the SLNMAC further noted.
However, experts are of the view that the estimated time could be reduced with the addition of more trained military personnel. Despite its inherent high-risk and danger involved- Army Engineering corps have done a commendable work with an unmatched efficiency, an official at the SLMAC said.
"Their lives(de-miners) are invaluable to ensure the safety of the people and also as a confidence building measure for the resettlement of people displaced by the mines and explosives indiscriminately 'sown' and deliberately laid by LTTE terrorists" the official further asserted. According to the Information Management System on Mine Action (INSMA), Sri Lanka, a total of 386,225,502 square meters of land was cleared between 01st January 2009 and 18 July 2010.
Applauding international assistance provided into mine clearing/sweeping efforts, SLNMAC added that, United States of America recently allocated US $ 500,000 (Rs 56 m) to "purchase more heavy vehicles for the Army Humanitarian Deming Unit".
Available information points out that, by 05th August 2010 Army de-miner to have cleared-off a total area of 679sqkm in the North and East. According to the Army's Non-Technical Survey (NTS) report an area of 23,566sqm have been cleared-off by the military by 05th August, 2010.
Around 850 square kilometers were cleared of LTTE land mines with the Army Engineers unearthing 23,566 Unexploded Ordnance(UXOs) 32,171 Anti Personnel mines(AP) , 123 anti tank mines and 23,566 UXOs. The Army de-mining teams consist of 31 Officers and 991 soldiers to unearth the deadly explosive devices
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reiterated that the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP's) will be re-settled only after the affected areas have been officially declared "MINE FREE". This principle has been strictly adhered to by the authorities. As a result , despite the inevitable delay due to the nature of the task involved , no casualties of resettled IDPs have been reported from areas declared "mine free" and has given the IDP confidence to resettle in their former villages and resume normal lives . The people are now free after over two decades of ruthless LTTE terrorism to resume normal lives, free from fear of their children been forcibly recruited by the LTTE as "child" soldiers.
ADB to provide financial assistance in Northern road development
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100828_05
ADB to provide financial assistance in Northern road development
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide US $ 154.4 million (Rs 17.8 billion) to implement the Northern Road Connectivity Project. The total investment cost of this project is US$ 173 million of which the Government contribution is US $ 18.6 million equivalent.
The project's main objective is to improve road connectivity within the Northern Province and between the Northern Province and the Southern region.
The activities covered under this project are; rehabilitation and improvement of about 170 km of National Highways comprising 108 km in Northern Province and 62 km in North Central Province; rehabilitation of about 140 km of provincial roads with rehabilitation or replacement of selected bridges in Northern Province and rehabilitation and improvement of the office of Northern Provincial Road Development Department.
The Loan Agreement for the project was signed at the Finance and Planning Ministry Friday( Aug 28). Finance and Planning Ministry Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera signed the agreement on behalf of the Government and ADB Country Director Dr Richard Vokes signed on behalf of the ADB.
Two Project Agreements in relation to the implementation of the project were also entered into between the ADB and the Road Development Authority and Northern Provincial Council.
ADB to provide financial assistance in Northern road development
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide US $ 154.4 million (Rs 17.8 billion) to implement the Northern Road Connectivity Project. The total investment cost of this project is US$ 173 million of which the Government contribution is US $ 18.6 million equivalent.
The project's main objective is to improve road connectivity within the Northern Province and between the Northern Province and the Southern region.
The activities covered under this project are; rehabilitation and improvement of about 170 km of National Highways comprising 108 km in Northern Province and 62 km in North Central Province; rehabilitation of about 140 km of provincial roads with rehabilitation or replacement of selected bridges in Northern Province and rehabilitation and improvement of the office of Northern Provincial Road Development Department.
The Loan Agreement for the project was signed at the Finance and Planning Ministry Friday( Aug 28). Finance and Planning Ministry Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera signed the agreement on behalf of the Government and ADB Country Director Dr Richard Vokes signed on behalf of the ADB.
Two Project Agreements in relation to the implementation of the project were also entered into between the ADB and the Road Development Authority and Northern Provincial Council.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Over 300,000 land mines defused so far in Sri Lanka, Army says
http://www.colombopage.com/archive_10B/Aug28_1283004609KA.php
Over 300,000 land mines defused so far in Sri Lanka, Army saysSat, Aug 28, 2010, 07:40 pm SL Time, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
Aug 28, Colombo: Sri Lanka Army spokesman Major General Ubhaya Medawela told a Sinhala daily The Divaina that about half of the landmines buried by the Tamil rebels, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam had been defused now.
So far 300,500 landmines have been unearthed and a similar amount is expected to be demined in the future.
The official said that the demining has been completed in 1,800 square kilometers so far and further 2,000 square kilometers needed to be demined.
He further said that 1,600 Army personnel are deployed in mine clearing. Seven NGOs are assisting the operations.
Demining operations are carried out in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara districts, said the newspaper.
According to the Government Agent of Vavuniya Mrs. Mrs. P.S.M. Charles, demining operations have almost been completed in Vavuniya. As of today only one Grama Niladhari Division remains to be demined out of the 102 Grama Niladhari Divisions.
Over 300,000 land mines defused so far in Sri Lanka, Army saysSat, Aug 28, 2010, 07:40 pm SL Time, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
Aug 28, Colombo: Sri Lanka Army spokesman Major General Ubhaya Medawela told a Sinhala daily The Divaina that about half of the landmines buried by the Tamil rebels, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam had been defused now.
So far 300,500 landmines have been unearthed and a similar amount is expected to be demined in the future.
The official said that the demining has been completed in 1,800 square kilometers so far and further 2,000 square kilometers needed to be demined.
He further said that 1,600 Army personnel are deployed in mine clearing. Seven NGOs are assisting the operations.
Demining operations are carried out in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara districts, said the newspaper.
According to the Government Agent of Vavuniya Mrs. Mrs. P.S.M. Charles, demining operations have almost been completed in Vavuniya. As of today only one Grama Niladhari Division remains to be demined out of the 102 Grama Niladhari Divisions.
Be efficient to keep up with govt’s development drive – President tells SLAS officials
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26531
Be efficient to keep up with govt’s development drive – President tells SLAS officials
28 Aug 2010 - 12:33
President Mahinda Rajapaksa urged the public service to be efficient to keep up with the government’s development drive. ‘If public service lack efficiency and is unable to keep up with the pace of the development including infrastructure, its inefficiency becomes more apparent’, the President stated addressing the Annual Convention of Sri Lanka Administration Service held at BMICH today (26 August).
You are the most important link between the people and the political leadership, he said adding that there were times when the public service demonstrated great commitment and efficiency and urged them to maintain the same when it comes to serving the day to day needs of the public.
‘When the Tsunami tragedy struck killing 40,000 people, the public sector responded with great commitment with the administrative service giving a good leadership’.
‘During the final phase of the recent humanitarian operation, hundreds of thousands of people sought relief due to displacement. The world was skeptical whether the Sri Lankan government is able to safeguard these people. But, with your drive and dedication, the state was able to protect these thousands of people’, he said.
Following is the speech delivered by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Annual Convention of Sri Lanka Administration Service at BMICH on 26th August 2010
Friends,
When we govern the country, you, the officers of the Sri Lanka Administration Service, are a group that work very closely with us.You are the most important link between the people and the political leadership. I remember that in the past, the Government Agent signs his letters to the public as 'your obedient servant'. I have not seen the Provincial Secretaries or District Secretaries signing letters as 'obedient servants'. I do not know whether you have withdrawn from the role of a servant of the people. Whether you sign in this way or not, the fact remains that you are a servant of the people. I am a representative of the people, but I am also a servant of the public. Hence, I am glad to participate in the anniversary of officers who are committed to serve the people.
Friends,
You are well aware that during the last 30 years, the public service and its strengths were treated lightly. As a result of emerging international trends, only the private sector was considered as the engine of growth. Accordingly, the public sector was sacrificed during the last 30 years for the benefit of the private sector. Plans were afoot to handover the administration of Divisional Secretariats to the private sector. While the international trend was different, we have succeeded in changing that trend in 2005. We have clearly stated in Mahinda Chintana, that it is essential to strengthen the public sector for the development of the country. Since 2005, we have strengthened the public sector to a level never before seen in history.
Today, the public service sector is very strong. Similarly, we have created the background required for strengthening the Sri Lanka Administration Service.
Those who join the public service or administration service must askthemselves a deep seeded question. You are aware earlier, that the armed conflict was the biggest obstacle to developing the country. The other was the lack of interest or funds to develop infrastructure. We have eliminated the world's most ruthless terrorist organization from our country in a short period of three years. The question is whether the public sector, including the officers of the administrative service, are able to work at a similar pace?
Hambantota Port and many other large scale infrastructure projects were completed in three years. Is the public sector working at a similar speed?
Friends,
Today the salaries of the public sector cost the nation Rs.300 billion. In addition, we spend Rs.100 billion for pensions. Do we receive a service worth Rs.300 billion from the public sector? That is a question which all officers in the public service who have undertaken the responsibility of directing and implementing the public policy must seriously ask themselves.
Friends,
I do not accept that our public service is incapable. There is enough evidence in history to show this. The Civil Service started during the colonial era. It was set up to collect tax for the colonial rulers. After we became a republic in 1972, the Civil Service became the Sri Lanka Administration Service. The Civil Service, which was set up for tax collection for colonial rulers, has been changed to a public service to build all aspects of public life. At times our public sector has amazed the world with their outstanding work.
When the Tsunami tragedy struck killing 40,000 people, the public sector responded with great commitment with the administrative service giving a good leadership.
When powerful nations take years to restore normalcy after floods or cyclones, we only took one year to overcome such a disaster. The public officers are able to conduct a sudden election in conditions of least facilities throughout the country anytime. During the final phase of the humanitarian operation, hundreds of thousands of people sought relief due to displacement. The world was skeptical whether the Sri Lankan government is able to safeguard these people. But, with your drive and dedication, the state was able to protect these thousands of people, not letting them go hungry by skipping even a meal. The public service has demonstrated such efficiency.
However, I must ask you, whether you display the same efficiency when it comes to addressing day to day needs of the public.
Friends,
We can not accept anymore, public servants working the same pace they did in the pre-conflict period.
When the construction of the port ended less than nine months before the targeted date and when the bridges are constructed in 60 days, the public service officials should be similarly efficient. If public service lack efficiency and is unable to keep up with the pace of the development including infrastructure, its inefficiency becomes more apparent.
Therefore, we need a public service free of lethargy. If technology is developed to the extent of fax machines, email and text messaging, why does it take 14 days to reply to a letter, is the circular meant for the future? Or to reverse the country’s progress? Is it worth the while for the public service official to hang around in the Head Office of one’s own institution for days to adjust one’s salary increments? There are officials who ask for request letters when information is sought for the compilation of my speeches. Then what is the use of this public service for the nation which bears a salary bill of 300 billion rupees? All of us should provide answers to these questions. Yourselves, who provide direction to the public service through the administrative service, should provide answers.
Friends,
Today, we have established a strong government with an almost 2/3 majority. We have built this country to be one of the strongest nations in Asia free of anarchy. This government is not unstable. This is the strength needed for you to work freely. We have directed the path of the Mahinda Chintana towards the benefit of the public. When developing the country, the government and public service cannot be on two different sides. The public service cannot claim to be independent and do nothing when the government accelerates its development drive.We are all here on behalf of the public. Therefore, you, being the servant of the public, bear great responsibility. You are aware of the way we stepped in to protect the military officials who led the humanitarian operation. You know how we protected our soldiers when traitorous claims were made that shooting occurred when white flags were raised. That was during the humanitarian operations.
Now is the time for the development offensive. In that, you are the warriors. You should be the ones who direct it. Brave decisions need to be made on behalf of the nation in this offensive. As I safeguarded the military officials during the humanitarian operation, I will protect you who take humane decisions during the development offensive.
I wish you a prosperous future!
Be efficient to keep up with govt’s development drive – President tells SLAS officials
28 Aug 2010 - 12:33
President Mahinda Rajapaksa urged the public service to be efficient to keep up with the government’s development drive. ‘If public service lack efficiency and is unable to keep up with the pace of the development including infrastructure, its inefficiency becomes more apparent’, the President stated addressing the Annual Convention of Sri Lanka Administration Service held at BMICH today (26 August).
You are the most important link between the people and the political leadership, he said adding that there were times when the public service demonstrated great commitment and efficiency and urged them to maintain the same when it comes to serving the day to day needs of the public.
‘When the Tsunami tragedy struck killing 40,000 people, the public sector responded with great commitment with the administrative service giving a good leadership’.
‘During the final phase of the recent humanitarian operation, hundreds of thousands of people sought relief due to displacement. The world was skeptical whether the Sri Lankan government is able to safeguard these people. But, with your drive and dedication, the state was able to protect these thousands of people’, he said.
Following is the speech delivered by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Annual Convention of Sri Lanka Administration Service at BMICH on 26th August 2010
Friends,
When we govern the country, you, the officers of the Sri Lanka Administration Service, are a group that work very closely with us.You are the most important link between the people and the political leadership. I remember that in the past, the Government Agent signs his letters to the public as 'your obedient servant'. I have not seen the Provincial Secretaries or District Secretaries signing letters as 'obedient servants'. I do not know whether you have withdrawn from the role of a servant of the people. Whether you sign in this way or not, the fact remains that you are a servant of the people. I am a representative of the people, but I am also a servant of the public. Hence, I am glad to participate in the anniversary of officers who are committed to serve the people.
Friends,
You are well aware that during the last 30 years, the public service and its strengths were treated lightly. As a result of emerging international trends, only the private sector was considered as the engine of growth. Accordingly, the public sector was sacrificed during the last 30 years for the benefit of the private sector. Plans were afoot to handover the administration of Divisional Secretariats to the private sector. While the international trend was different, we have succeeded in changing that trend in 2005. We have clearly stated in Mahinda Chintana, that it is essential to strengthen the public sector for the development of the country. Since 2005, we have strengthened the public sector to a level never before seen in history.
Today, the public service sector is very strong. Similarly, we have created the background required for strengthening the Sri Lanka Administration Service.
Those who join the public service or administration service must askthemselves a deep seeded question. You are aware earlier, that the armed conflict was the biggest obstacle to developing the country. The other was the lack of interest or funds to develop infrastructure. We have eliminated the world's most ruthless terrorist organization from our country in a short period of three years. The question is whether the public sector, including the officers of the administrative service, are able to work at a similar pace?
Hambantota Port and many other large scale infrastructure projects were completed in three years. Is the public sector working at a similar speed?
Friends,
Today the salaries of the public sector cost the nation Rs.300 billion. In addition, we spend Rs.100 billion for pensions. Do we receive a service worth Rs.300 billion from the public sector? That is a question which all officers in the public service who have undertaken the responsibility of directing and implementing the public policy must seriously ask themselves.
Friends,
I do not accept that our public service is incapable. There is enough evidence in history to show this. The Civil Service started during the colonial era. It was set up to collect tax for the colonial rulers. After we became a republic in 1972, the Civil Service became the Sri Lanka Administration Service. The Civil Service, which was set up for tax collection for colonial rulers, has been changed to a public service to build all aspects of public life. At times our public sector has amazed the world with their outstanding work.
When the Tsunami tragedy struck killing 40,000 people, the public sector responded with great commitment with the administrative service giving a good leadership.
When powerful nations take years to restore normalcy after floods or cyclones, we only took one year to overcome such a disaster. The public officers are able to conduct a sudden election in conditions of least facilities throughout the country anytime. During the final phase of the humanitarian operation, hundreds of thousands of people sought relief due to displacement. The world was skeptical whether the Sri Lankan government is able to safeguard these people. But, with your drive and dedication, the state was able to protect these thousands of people, not letting them go hungry by skipping even a meal. The public service has demonstrated such efficiency.
However, I must ask you, whether you display the same efficiency when it comes to addressing day to day needs of the public.
Friends,
We can not accept anymore, public servants working the same pace they did in the pre-conflict period.
When the construction of the port ended less than nine months before the targeted date and when the bridges are constructed in 60 days, the public service officials should be similarly efficient. If public service lack efficiency and is unable to keep up with the pace of the development including infrastructure, its inefficiency becomes more apparent.
Therefore, we need a public service free of lethargy. If technology is developed to the extent of fax machines, email and text messaging, why does it take 14 days to reply to a letter, is the circular meant for the future? Or to reverse the country’s progress? Is it worth the while for the public service official to hang around in the Head Office of one’s own institution for days to adjust one’s salary increments? There are officials who ask for request letters when information is sought for the compilation of my speeches. Then what is the use of this public service for the nation which bears a salary bill of 300 billion rupees? All of us should provide answers to these questions. Yourselves, who provide direction to the public service through the administrative service, should provide answers.
Friends,
Today, we have established a strong government with an almost 2/3 majority. We have built this country to be one of the strongest nations in Asia free of anarchy. This government is not unstable. This is the strength needed for you to work freely. We have directed the path of the Mahinda Chintana towards the benefit of the public. When developing the country, the government and public service cannot be on two different sides. The public service cannot claim to be independent and do nothing when the government accelerates its development drive.We are all here on behalf of the public. Therefore, you, being the servant of the public, bear great responsibility. You are aware of the way we stepped in to protect the military officials who led the humanitarian operation. You know how we protected our soldiers when traitorous claims were made that shooting occurred when white flags were raised. That was during the humanitarian operations.
Now is the time for the development offensive. In that, you are the warriors. You should be the ones who direct it. Brave decisions need to be made on behalf of the nation in this offensive. As I safeguarded the military officials during the humanitarian operation, I will protect you who take humane decisions during the development offensive.
I wish you a prosperous future!
Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100828_04
Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
Over 1,541,880,972sqm cleared-off....
2,468,119,028sqm surveyed to be cleared in North and east - SLNMAC
In a recent report released the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Center (SLNMAC) concluded that as at June, 2010 a total area of 1,541,880,972sqm in North and East as cleared-off, while an area of 2,468,119,028sqm remaining to be swept by the Army engineering corps.
According to the report released, the estimated time required to clear-off the remaining area will be at-least 15 years. The 'annual clearance average' since 2002 is 171sqkm, the SLNMAC further noted.
However, experts are of the view that the estimated time could be reduced with the addition of more trained military personnel. Despite its inherent high-risk and danger involved- Army Engineering corps have done a commendable work with an unmatched efficiency, an official at the SLMAC said.
"Their lives(de-miners) are invaluable to ensure the safety of the people and also as a confidence building measure for the resettlement of people displaced by the mines and explosives indiscriminately 'sown' and deliberately laid by LTTE terrorists" the official further asserted. According to the Information Management System on Mine Action (INSMA), Sri Lanka, a total of 386,225,502 square meters of land was cleared between 01st January 2009 and 18 July 2010.
Applauding international assistance provided into mine clearing/sweeping efforts, SLNMAC added that, United States of America recently allocated US $ 500,000 (Rs 56 m) to "purchase more heavy vehicles for the Army Humanitarian Deming Unit".
Available information points out that, by 05th August 2010 Army de-miner to have cleared-off a total area of 679sqkm in the North and East. According to the Army's Non-Technical Survey (NTS) report an area of 23,566sqm have been cleared-off by the military by 05th August, 2010.
Around 850 square kilometers were cleared of LTTE land mines with the Army Engineers unearthing 23,566 Unexploded Ordnance(UXOs) 32,171 Anti Personnel mines(AP) , 123 anti tank mines and 23,566 UXOs. The Army de-mining teams consist of 31 Officers and 991 soldiers to unearth the deadly explosive devices
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reiterated that the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP's) will be re-settled only after the affected areas have been officially declared "MINE FREE". This principle has been strictly adhered to by the authorities. As a result , despite the inevitable delay due to the nature of the task involved , no casualties of resettled IDPs have been reported from areas declared "mine free" and has given the IDP confidence to resettle in their former villages and resume normal lives . The people are now free after over two decades of ruthless LTTE terrorism to resume normal lives, free from fear of their children been forcibly recruited by the LTTE as "child" soldiers.
Mine clearing operations a success in North & East
Over 1,541,880,972sqm cleared-off....
2,468,119,028sqm surveyed to be cleared in North and east - SLNMAC
In a recent report released the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Center (SLNMAC) concluded that as at June, 2010 a total area of 1,541,880,972sqm in North and East as cleared-off, while an area of 2,468,119,028sqm remaining to be swept by the Army engineering corps.
According to the report released, the estimated time required to clear-off the remaining area will be at-least 15 years. The 'annual clearance average' since 2002 is 171sqkm, the SLNMAC further noted.
However, experts are of the view that the estimated time could be reduced with the addition of more trained military personnel. Despite its inherent high-risk and danger involved- Army Engineering corps have done a commendable work with an unmatched efficiency, an official at the SLMAC said.
"Their lives(de-miners) are invaluable to ensure the safety of the people and also as a confidence building measure for the resettlement of people displaced by the mines and explosives indiscriminately 'sown' and deliberately laid by LTTE terrorists" the official further asserted. According to the Information Management System on Mine Action (INSMA), Sri Lanka, a total of 386,225,502 square meters of land was cleared between 01st January 2009 and 18 July 2010.
Applauding international assistance provided into mine clearing/sweeping efforts, SLNMAC added that, United States of America recently allocated US $ 500,000 (Rs 56 m) to "purchase more heavy vehicles for the Army Humanitarian Deming Unit".
Available information points out that, by 05th August 2010 Army de-miner to have cleared-off a total area of 679sqkm in the North and East. According to the Army's Non-Technical Survey (NTS) report an area of 23,566sqm have been cleared-off by the military by 05th August, 2010.
Around 850 square kilometers were cleared of LTTE land mines with the Army Engineers unearthing 23,566 Unexploded Ordnance(UXOs) 32,171 Anti Personnel mines(AP) , 123 anti tank mines and 23,566 UXOs. The Army de-mining teams consist of 31 Officers and 991 soldiers to unearth the deadly explosive devices
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reiterated that the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP's) will be re-settled only after the affected areas have been officially declared "MINE FREE". This principle has been strictly adhered to by the authorities. As a result , despite the inevitable delay due to the nature of the task involved , no casualties of resettled IDPs have been reported from areas declared "mine free" and has given the IDP confidence to resettle in their former villages and resume normal lives . The people are now free after over two decades of ruthless LTTE terrorism to resume normal lives, free from fear of their children been forcibly recruited by the LTTE as "child" soldiers.
Visit of Sri Lanka delegation led by Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa to India
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100828_03
Visit of Sri Lanka delegation led by Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa to India
Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa undertook his first visit to India, since his election and assumption of the current portfolio, from 24th - 26th August 2010. During the visit he called on Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Minister of External Affairs S.M. Krishna, Minister of Finance Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation & Tourism Kumari Selja, and National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon.
During the interactions, Minister Basil Rajapaksa briefed his Indian counterparts on the progress made in demining the previously conflict affected areas in the North, resettling the internally displaced persons as well as on the progress made to restore the livelihood of the people in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. He thanked the Government of India for the continued assistance given in support of the Government of Sri Lanka's endeavour to develop the Northern Province and improve the livelihood of its people. In this regard he held discussions on the progress being made on a number of projects currently being implemented with Indian assistance. These include, among others, the construction of 50,000 houses, reconstruction of the northern railway lines and the upgrading work being undertaken at the Palaly Airport and Kankesanthurai Port. It was agreed to make arrangements for the resumption of ferry services between the two countries.
Indian authorities, at the request of the visiting Minister, will provide quality seeds in order to meet seed requirements of the North for the upcoming Maha season. Collaboration between India and Sri Lanka in the establishment of an Agricultural Research Institute in the Northern Province, import of livestock from India and revival and expansion of the sugar industry in Sri Lanka were also discussed. Indian Minister Sharad Pawar, who is also the current President of the International Cricket Council, accepted an invitation by Minister Rajapaksa to visit Sri Lanka in connection with the cricket World Cup scheduled to be held in the subcontinent early next year.
In his meeting with Indian Minister Kumari Selja, the visiting Minister discussed ways and means of sharing best practices for urban poverty alleviation including measures that can be taken to create livelihood support for urban poor. In the field of tourism, both sides agreed that the South Asian region in its richness and diversity had much to offer, and that the two countries can work closely to promote tourism and decided to explore the possibility of promoting joint tour packages. It was agreed to work closely to promote tourism and towards this end agreed to explore the possibility of promoting joint tour packages. Towards this end, he invited Indian Minister Kumari Selja to visit Sri Lanka and share India's experiences with relevant stake-holders in Sri Lanka.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa also presided over a Road Show entitled "Sri Lanka as a destination for tourism and investment in its infrastructure" sponsored by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the Confederation of Indian Industry. The function was well attended by tour operators, travel writers, Indian industry and the media. The future development of Sri Lanka as a tourism and investment hub to complement the growth of India was highlighted during the interactions. Minister Rajapaksa invited Indian entrepreneurs and visitors to take advantage of the opportunities available in Sri Lanka after the dawn of peace.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa was joined by Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Secretary,Defence Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and the High Commissioner Prasad Kariyawasam in the bilateral talks with the delegation from India led by National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar. The two sides discussed extensively and in detail all matters relating to ongoing bilateral cooperation especially with regard to full implementation of objectives agreed upon in the India-Sri Lanka Joint Declaration following the successful recent State visit of the President of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka High Commission
New Delhi
27th August 2010
Visit of Sri Lanka delegation led by Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa to India
Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa undertook his first visit to India, since his election and assumption of the current portfolio, from 24th - 26th August 2010. During the visit he called on Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Minister of External Affairs S.M. Krishna, Minister of Finance Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation & Tourism Kumari Selja, and National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon.
During the interactions, Minister Basil Rajapaksa briefed his Indian counterparts on the progress made in demining the previously conflict affected areas in the North, resettling the internally displaced persons as well as on the progress made to restore the livelihood of the people in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. He thanked the Government of India for the continued assistance given in support of the Government of Sri Lanka's endeavour to develop the Northern Province and improve the livelihood of its people. In this regard he held discussions on the progress being made on a number of projects currently being implemented with Indian assistance. These include, among others, the construction of 50,000 houses, reconstruction of the northern railway lines and the upgrading work being undertaken at the Palaly Airport and Kankesanthurai Port. It was agreed to make arrangements for the resumption of ferry services between the two countries.
Indian authorities, at the request of the visiting Minister, will provide quality seeds in order to meet seed requirements of the North for the upcoming Maha season. Collaboration between India and Sri Lanka in the establishment of an Agricultural Research Institute in the Northern Province, import of livestock from India and revival and expansion of the sugar industry in Sri Lanka were also discussed. Indian Minister Sharad Pawar, who is also the current President of the International Cricket Council, accepted an invitation by Minister Rajapaksa to visit Sri Lanka in connection with the cricket World Cup scheduled to be held in the subcontinent early next year.
In his meeting with Indian Minister Kumari Selja, the visiting Minister discussed ways and means of sharing best practices for urban poverty alleviation including measures that can be taken to create livelihood support for urban poor. In the field of tourism, both sides agreed that the South Asian region in its richness and diversity had much to offer, and that the two countries can work closely to promote tourism and decided to explore the possibility of promoting joint tour packages. It was agreed to work closely to promote tourism and towards this end agreed to explore the possibility of promoting joint tour packages. Towards this end, he invited Indian Minister Kumari Selja to visit Sri Lanka and share India's experiences with relevant stake-holders in Sri Lanka.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa also presided over a Road Show entitled "Sri Lanka as a destination for tourism and investment in its infrastructure" sponsored by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the Confederation of Indian Industry. The function was well attended by tour operators, travel writers, Indian industry and the media. The future development of Sri Lanka as a tourism and investment hub to complement the growth of India was highlighted during the interactions. Minister Rajapaksa invited Indian entrepreneurs and visitors to take advantage of the opportunities available in Sri Lanka after the dawn of peace.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa was joined by Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Secretary,Defence Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and the High Commissioner Prasad Kariyawasam in the bilateral talks with the delegation from India led by National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar. The two sides discussed extensively and in detail all matters relating to ongoing bilateral cooperation especially with regard to full implementation of objectives agreed upon in the India-Sri Lanka Joint Declaration following the successful recent State visit of the President of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka High Commission
New Delhi
27th August 2010
Ex- combatants retrained as bridal designers
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100828_01
Ex- combatants retrained as bridal designers
www.defence.lk">Bureau of the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation together with Alliance Development Trust, conducted a short term course on beauty culture and bridal dressing for the trainees at Pempemadu and Puntottam women rehabilitation centers, recently. An official from Bureau of the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation revealed.
Mrs. Dananjanee Palliaguruge steered the training programme, and 36 women ex-combatants received certificates on completion of the training. The certificate awarding ceremony held at Pempemadu rehabilitation center on 14th August, followed by a stunning bridal show, which was staged by the trainees themselves.
"This was amazing; I wonder if anyone of us would ever be able to become beauticians or bridal designers unless we escaped from LTTE and surrendered to the army", one slammed her former associates.
Moreover, the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation handed over another 37 woman ex-combatants who are above 50 years of age, to their relatives on completion of the training.
Ex- combatants retrained as bridal designers
www.defence.lk">Bureau of the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation together with Alliance Development Trust, conducted a short term course on beauty culture and bridal dressing for the trainees at Pempemadu and Puntottam women rehabilitation centers, recently. An official from Bureau of the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation revealed.
Mrs. Dananjanee Palliaguruge steered the training programme, and 36 women ex-combatants received certificates on completion of the training. The certificate awarding ceremony held at Pempemadu rehabilitation center on 14th August, followed by a stunning bridal show, which was staged by the trainees themselves.
"This was amazing; I wonder if anyone of us would ever be able to become beauticians or bridal designers unless we escaped from LTTE and surrendered to the army", one slammed her former associates.
Moreover, the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation handed over another 37 woman ex-combatants who are above 50 years of age, to their relatives on completion of the training.
Tamil ‘refugees’ who holiday in Sri Lanka
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/28/fea05.asp
Tamil ‘refugees’ who holiday in Sri Lanka
Pro-LTTE asylum seekers in Australia cannot be enjoying the indecisive result of the Australian national poll paving the way to the first hung Parliament in the country since World War II. It is not the stability of the Canberra Legislature that worries them but that either candidate who scrapes through to form a coalition has stood firmly against unlimited freedom to asylum seekers, especially from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan
Prospective migrants to Australia from Sri Lanka, riding Goat Class in heavily funded but creaky vessels, now face the prospect long stays in East Timor, Christmas Islands and such holding places, possibly prior to finally being sent back to Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, the debate on the ‘asylum seekers’ in Canada gets more interesting. Influential sections of the Canadian media are posing good questions about the genuineness these asylum seekers, and producing interesting studies about the behaviour of those who had already obtained refugee status there, claiming to be persecuted in Sri Lanka.
LTTE used child soldiers violating human rights. File photo
Not surprisingly, we see James McDonald, the Sri Lankan Country Specialist at Amnesty International U.S.A, wading into the Canadian debate.
In a letter to The Washington Post of August 9, he states that an August 4 news story of US monitoring Sri Lankans aiming for North American asylum that quotes a Pentagon official who advocated summarily sending the approximately 200 Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seekers, on a boat heading towards North America, back to Sri Lanka, as being a dangerous and ill considered position.
It is necessary to state that this is the same AI Country Specialist who stated that the Sri Lankan Armed Forces were using cluster bombs in the fight to free Tamil civilians from the LTTE; a blatant lie that was never retracted, and not corroborated even by those who uttered so many other lies about the Sri Lankan Security Forces.
James McDonald uses a cluster bomb of his own, in support of the asylum seekers approaching Canada. He states, “the asylum-seekers could be at risk of harm if returned to Sri Lanka. Thousands of Tamils suspected of being members of the Tigers are being detained there without charge; some have reportedly been tortured or have died in custody.”
The facts fly in the face of this malicious user of untruth. There is no record of any asylum seekers returned to Sri Lanka being at any risk of harm. The facts, as we will show here, prove the contrary.
Canada missed chances to stop Tamil migrant ship- National Post
Also, the statement about thousands of Tamils suspected of being members of the Tigers being detained without charge, and some having been reportedly tortured or died in custody is largely unacceptable hearsay, and ignores the reality of the terror that Sri Lanka went through at the hands of the LTTE for nearly 30 years.
Neither James McDonald nor AI or the likes of such persons or organizations, warn against Americans who seek asylum in Canada or any other country, for being opposed to the war in Iraq or Afghanistan, being returned to the US, despite well documented facts about hundreds of alleged terrorists held without any trial and subject to torture such as water boarding and other cruel methods at Guantanamo Bay; and to a country where former child soldiers can be tried by military tribunals, unlike in Sri Lanka where they are retrained and rehabilitated into society.
The facts
Here is a very interesting fact about Sri Lankans who seek asylum or refugee status in Canada who are returned to Sri Lanka, which James MacDonald could not have missed.
Tamils playing us for fools; refugees go back to SL for vacation We’ve been duped by the Tamils - Editorial comment- Toronto Sun
“In December 19, 2006 correspondence, an official at the Canadian High Commission in Sri Lanka indicated that ‘since 2004 ... no returnees from Canada have been arrested or experienced negative repercussions at the airport or after exiting the airport grounds in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan authorities who have dealt with the returnees have carried out their duties in a professional manner in compliance with international norms’.
The above observation is from a report on “Sri Lanka: Treatment of failed asylum seekers returning to Sri Lanka (2004 - 2006)” by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada dated December 22, 2006, cited LKA102038.E, available at: http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/docid/45f1476c7.html
What is important is that this absence of any threat or harm to those who have been sent back from Canada having failed to obtain asylum was at the height of the conflict with the LTTE, when it was unleashing terror throughout the land. If there was no danger to failed asylum seekers at that time, how is one to believe AI’s Cluster Bomber’s claim of such threats existing today?
Once that lie about Sri Lankan asylum seekers in Canada has been exposed, it is interesting to know of the behaviour of those who have obtained citizenship under refugee status in Canada, in the past few years, which will indicate the conditions that actually prevailed and still, remain in Sri Lanka.
The Canadian ‘National Post’ of August 24, 2010, commented editorially that: “Over the weekend, the Sun newspaper chain (The Toronto Sun) reported the findings of a ‘secret government report’ suggesting that nearly three-quarters of Sri Lankan Tamils previously granted refugee status in Canada have returned to their homeland for visits or vacations, casting doubt on their claims that they faced persecution, or even death, in their homeland.
The ‘secret report’ turns out to be a collection of 50 refugee-applicant case studies, plucked at random from government files.
That is a small sample size, and it’s not clear that even these 50 individuals are entirely representative of the larger Canadian-resident Tamil community. Still, the results are worrying: Of the 50 refugee applicants, 31 had been granted asylum. Of those, 22 had made trips back to Sri Lanka.
If applicants feel safe enough to return to Sri Lanka, they are putting the lie to their pleas for sanctuary here.
“For many years, Canada has been regarded as a soft touch by Tamil migrants - which is the main reason that the Tiger terrorist group is seeking to use Canada as its base of operations as it regroups in the wake of its 2009 routing by the Sri Lankan Army. The overcrowded boat full of Tamil migrants that arrived in British Columbia this month likely will not be the last of its kind,” the National Post states.
This must be a worrying fact to many a Canadian and others in North America, too. The fact that asylum seekers who claimed torture and persecution have returned to the place of the alleged threat, persecution or torture, raises a whole new question of the honesty of these ‘asylum seekers’, and gives much more credence to the suspicions of their being fund raisers for the pro-LTTE organizations abroad, especially the Trans-national Government of Tamil Eelam, and such fronts for future terror.
The National Post editorial concludes that: “Whether as refugees or immigrants, new Canadians who do not genuinely wish to embrace this country as their own, or who seek to short-circuit our immigration procedures, must not be allowed to exploit our goodwill.” It is a note of sanity in the midst of a massive propaganda campaign supported by AI, Human Rights Watch et al to show that Tamils in Sri Lanka who have been liberated from their LTTE captors are somehow living under the worst conditions of fear and threat in Sri Lanka.
The truth is coming out at last, slowly but surely. More strength to those investigative journalists in Canada, who are digging out the facts of about human smugglers making huge profits to fatten the already bulging coffers of LTTE terror.
Also visit - http://www.info.gov.lk/news-update/Current-Affairs/ca201008/20100823tamils-playing-us-for-fools.htm http://www.info.gov.lk/news-update/Current-Affairs/ca201008/20100823weve-been-duped-by-the-tamils-editorial-comment.htm
Tamil ‘refugees’ who holiday in Sri Lanka
Pro-LTTE asylum seekers in Australia cannot be enjoying the indecisive result of the Australian national poll paving the way to the first hung Parliament in the country since World War II. It is not the stability of the Canberra Legislature that worries them but that either candidate who scrapes through to form a coalition has stood firmly against unlimited freedom to asylum seekers, especially from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan
Prospective migrants to Australia from Sri Lanka, riding Goat Class in heavily funded but creaky vessels, now face the prospect long stays in East Timor, Christmas Islands and such holding places, possibly prior to finally being sent back to Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, the debate on the ‘asylum seekers’ in Canada gets more interesting. Influential sections of the Canadian media are posing good questions about the genuineness these asylum seekers, and producing interesting studies about the behaviour of those who had already obtained refugee status there, claiming to be persecuted in Sri Lanka.
LTTE used child soldiers violating human rights. File photo
Not surprisingly, we see James McDonald, the Sri Lankan Country Specialist at Amnesty International U.S.A, wading into the Canadian debate.
In a letter to The Washington Post of August 9, he states that an August 4 news story of US monitoring Sri Lankans aiming for North American asylum that quotes a Pentagon official who advocated summarily sending the approximately 200 Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seekers, on a boat heading towards North America, back to Sri Lanka, as being a dangerous and ill considered position.
It is necessary to state that this is the same AI Country Specialist who stated that the Sri Lankan Armed Forces were using cluster bombs in the fight to free Tamil civilians from the LTTE; a blatant lie that was never retracted, and not corroborated even by those who uttered so many other lies about the Sri Lankan Security Forces.
James McDonald uses a cluster bomb of his own, in support of the asylum seekers approaching Canada. He states, “the asylum-seekers could be at risk of harm if returned to Sri Lanka. Thousands of Tamils suspected of being members of the Tigers are being detained there without charge; some have reportedly been tortured or have died in custody.”
The facts fly in the face of this malicious user of untruth. There is no record of any asylum seekers returned to Sri Lanka being at any risk of harm. The facts, as we will show here, prove the contrary.
Canada missed chances to stop Tamil migrant ship- National Post
Also, the statement about thousands of Tamils suspected of being members of the Tigers being detained without charge, and some having been reportedly tortured or died in custody is largely unacceptable hearsay, and ignores the reality of the terror that Sri Lanka went through at the hands of the LTTE for nearly 30 years.
Neither James McDonald nor AI or the likes of such persons or organizations, warn against Americans who seek asylum in Canada or any other country, for being opposed to the war in Iraq or Afghanistan, being returned to the US, despite well documented facts about hundreds of alleged terrorists held without any trial and subject to torture such as water boarding and other cruel methods at Guantanamo Bay; and to a country where former child soldiers can be tried by military tribunals, unlike in Sri Lanka where they are retrained and rehabilitated into society.
The facts
Here is a very interesting fact about Sri Lankans who seek asylum or refugee status in Canada who are returned to Sri Lanka, which James MacDonald could not have missed.
Tamils playing us for fools; refugees go back to SL for vacation We’ve been duped by the Tamils - Editorial comment- Toronto Sun
“In December 19, 2006 correspondence, an official at the Canadian High Commission in Sri Lanka indicated that ‘since 2004 ... no returnees from Canada have been arrested or experienced negative repercussions at the airport or after exiting the airport grounds in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan authorities who have dealt with the returnees have carried out their duties in a professional manner in compliance with international norms’.
The above observation is from a report on “Sri Lanka: Treatment of failed asylum seekers returning to Sri Lanka (2004 - 2006)” by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada dated December 22, 2006, cited LKA102038.E, available at: http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/docid/45f1476c7.html
What is important is that this absence of any threat or harm to those who have been sent back from Canada having failed to obtain asylum was at the height of the conflict with the LTTE, when it was unleashing terror throughout the land. If there was no danger to failed asylum seekers at that time, how is one to believe AI’s Cluster Bomber’s claim of such threats existing today?
Once that lie about Sri Lankan asylum seekers in Canada has been exposed, it is interesting to know of the behaviour of those who have obtained citizenship under refugee status in Canada, in the past few years, which will indicate the conditions that actually prevailed and still, remain in Sri Lanka.
The Canadian ‘National Post’ of August 24, 2010, commented editorially that: “Over the weekend, the Sun newspaper chain (The Toronto Sun) reported the findings of a ‘secret government report’ suggesting that nearly three-quarters of Sri Lankan Tamils previously granted refugee status in Canada have returned to their homeland for visits or vacations, casting doubt on their claims that they faced persecution, or even death, in their homeland.
The ‘secret report’ turns out to be a collection of 50 refugee-applicant case studies, plucked at random from government files.
That is a small sample size, and it’s not clear that even these 50 individuals are entirely representative of the larger Canadian-resident Tamil community. Still, the results are worrying: Of the 50 refugee applicants, 31 had been granted asylum. Of those, 22 had made trips back to Sri Lanka.
If applicants feel safe enough to return to Sri Lanka, they are putting the lie to their pleas for sanctuary here.
“For many years, Canada has been regarded as a soft touch by Tamil migrants - which is the main reason that the Tiger terrorist group is seeking to use Canada as its base of operations as it regroups in the wake of its 2009 routing by the Sri Lankan Army. The overcrowded boat full of Tamil migrants that arrived in British Columbia this month likely will not be the last of its kind,” the National Post states.
This must be a worrying fact to many a Canadian and others in North America, too. The fact that asylum seekers who claimed torture and persecution have returned to the place of the alleged threat, persecution or torture, raises a whole new question of the honesty of these ‘asylum seekers’, and gives much more credence to the suspicions of their being fund raisers for the pro-LTTE organizations abroad, especially the Trans-national Government of Tamil Eelam, and such fronts for future terror.
The National Post editorial concludes that: “Whether as refugees or immigrants, new Canadians who do not genuinely wish to embrace this country as their own, or who seek to short-circuit our immigration procedures, must not be allowed to exploit our goodwill.” It is a note of sanity in the midst of a massive propaganda campaign supported by AI, Human Rights Watch et al to show that Tamils in Sri Lanka who have been liberated from their LTTE captors are somehow living under the worst conditions of fear and threat in Sri Lanka.
The truth is coming out at last, slowly but surely. More strength to those investigative journalists in Canada, who are digging out the facts of about human smugglers making huge profits to fatten the already bulging coffers of LTTE terror.
Also visit - http://www.info.gov.lk/news-update/Current-Affairs/ca201008/20100823tamils-playing-us-for-fools.htm http://www.info.gov.lk/news-update/Current-Affairs/ca201008/20100823weve-been-duped-by-the-tamils-editorial-comment.htm
Story of ghost ship Sun Sea:
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/28/fea06.asp
Story of ghost ship Sun Sea:
Failed voyage
Whispers about a boat headed to Canada began long ago in Thailand’s small and closely knit Tamil community. First part of this article was published yesterday
Records suggest the Sun Sea was spotted again in Thai waters - again near Songkhla - on May 17. Two days later, 40 Sri Lankans checked in to a hotel there, but were seen that evening boarding fishing boats in Songkhla port.
The Sun Sea plies Thai waters in May, 2010. Pic. courtesy: The Globe and Mail
Five days later, a Thai Navy official stationed in Singapore reported that the still-flagless ship had docked there. Then the ship disappeared again.
“Nobody knows what happened after that. It was like a ghost ship,” said another Thai Navy officer who also spoke on the condition of anonymity.
The ship’s former owners are shocked the journey was attempted at all. Bhumindr Harinsuit, Managing Director of Harin Panich, said the 30-year-old Japanese-built ship was barely able to make the trek between Bangkok and Songkhla.
The idea of taking the rickety boat as far as Canada was too crazy to contemplate.
“Even in the Gulf of Thailand, if there were rough seas she wouldn’t travel. They must have had a good captain,” said Venus Pornprasert, the fleet manager for Harin Panich, who frequently captained the ship. (Some reports have named a veteran Tamil Tiger arms smuggler known as Vinod as the ship’s captain on its journey to Canada.) Making the trip even more astonishing was its cargo of 492 human beings.
When sold, the ship only had sleeping space for 15 crew, one small toilet, a galley kitchen and life rafts for a maximum of 30 people. With space for only 12 tonnes of water, supplies would have had to been harshly rationed to keep from running out mid-journey.
“The captain was taking an amazing risk. We wouldn’t even send it to Malaysia,” Harinsuit said. “The surprise isn’t that someone died (on the way to Canada), the surprise is that it was only one person who died.”
Thai security sources believe the boat-spent part of its journey time bobbing helplessly in international waters in the Gulf of Thailand.
On June 21, three ships were tracked departing from another port in southern Thailand that were believed to be carrying food, water and spare parts for the Sun Sea.
A home away from home
After that, however, they lost track of the ship for good. Later, when the ship was sighted off the coast of Canada, Harinsuit found himself sitting in his office explaining to Thai Police and an RCMP attach‚ everything he could remember about Sun & Rshiya, Kunarobinson and the boat he sold them.
“I told them I never dreamed of this vessel going this far. I even told them it was impossible.”
The Tamils of Bangkok are a mix of traders and asylum-seekers drawn by word that the local office of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees was one of the easiest places to get official refugee status. A UN agency lists 800 officially recognized Tamil refugees living in the Thai capital, many who stay only a few months before they lose track of them.
Few of Thailand’s long-term resident Tamils appear to have been aboard the Sun Sea when it sailed.
Authorities believe most of the migrants flew in on tourist visas just before the Sun Sea left Songkhla.
When asked why they were going to Thailand, they were told to say “Just to enjoy,” explained another patron at the New Madras Cafe, which doubles as a hostel for recent Tamil arrivals and is located just two blocks North of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, the centre of spiritual life in Bangkok for the predominantly Hindu Tamils. “But they came because they were going to Canada.”
Though the cafe was almost deserted, the middle-aged man was nervous as he spoke, looking over his shoulder and eventually resorting to writing his answers down on paper so they couldn’t be overheard.
Official Thai documents show that on May 1, authorities sent out a bulletin that 120 Tamils had been spotted travelling from Bangkok to Songkhla in a caravan of two buses and two vans. They were last spotted in the fishing hamlet of Ban Lae, on the outskirts of Songkhla.
“There were four Sri Lankans or Indians who came here in May. They walked around the village and talked among themselves and then two of them came back the next day with two other Sri Lankan people. It was like they were surveying,” said Dollosh Suksuwan, a 30-year-old unemployed oil worker who lives in Ban Lae cargo out to sea. “After dark, after 10 p.m., no one will ask what you are doing.”
Thai authorities believe that the people smugglers used Ban Lae and other fishing villages to ferry their human cargo out to the Sun Sea in small groups. “They could do it anywhere off the coast of Thailand. Thailand has a lot of fishing boats,” a Thai navy source said.
Only one Bangkok Tamil, a man known locally as Anton, is known to be among those who left. After years of living in Thailand with official UNHCR refugee status while his wife and family remained behind in Sri Lanka, Anton told friends in April his family was coming to Thailand to join him. Anton and his family disappeared from Bangkok shortly before the Sun Sea disappeared from Songkhla.
Asked how Anton, an ostensible refugee, could afford to bring his family to Canada at the reported $40,000 to $50,000 per place on the Sun Sea, the nervous cafe patron went silent again. After a pause, he again wrote on a piece of paper: “He was LTTE,” as in the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The Tamil Tigers.
The front man
Christhurajah Kunarobinson didn’t live like a man who owned his own business, nor one who was shopping for a 57-metre boat. The 30-year-old lived a Spartan existence in Thailand, paying just $80 month to rent an apartment in a poor neighbourhood of west Bangkok.
Thai documents show Kunarobinson flew into Bangkok from Colombo in April, 2008, on a tourist visa.
Courtesy: The Globe and Mail
To be continued
Story of ghost ship Sun Sea:
Failed voyage
Whispers about a boat headed to Canada began long ago in Thailand’s small and closely knit Tamil community. First part of this article was published yesterday
Records suggest the Sun Sea was spotted again in Thai waters - again near Songkhla - on May 17. Two days later, 40 Sri Lankans checked in to a hotel there, but were seen that evening boarding fishing boats in Songkhla port.
The Sun Sea plies Thai waters in May, 2010. Pic. courtesy: The Globe and Mail
Five days later, a Thai Navy official stationed in Singapore reported that the still-flagless ship had docked there. Then the ship disappeared again.
“Nobody knows what happened after that. It was like a ghost ship,” said another Thai Navy officer who also spoke on the condition of anonymity.
The ship’s former owners are shocked the journey was attempted at all. Bhumindr Harinsuit, Managing Director of Harin Panich, said the 30-year-old Japanese-built ship was barely able to make the trek between Bangkok and Songkhla.
The idea of taking the rickety boat as far as Canada was too crazy to contemplate.
“Even in the Gulf of Thailand, if there were rough seas she wouldn’t travel. They must have had a good captain,” said Venus Pornprasert, the fleet manager for Harin Panich, who frequently captained the ship. (Some reports have named a veteran Tamil Tiger arms smuggler known as Vinod as the ship’s captain on its journey to Canada.) Making the trip even more astonishing was its cargo of 492 human beings.
When sold, the ship only had sleeping space for 15 crew, one small toilet, a galley kitchen and life rafts for a maximum of 30 people. With space for only 12 tonnes of water, supplies would have had to been harshly rationed to keep from running out mid-journey.
“The captain was taking an amazing risk. We wouldn’t even send it to Malaysia,” Harinsuit said. “The surprise isn’t that someone died (on the way to Canada), the surprise is that it was only one person who died.”
Thai security sources believe the boat-spent part of its journey time bobbing helplessly in international waters in the Gulf of Thailand.
On June 21, three ships were tracked departing from another port in southern Thailand that were believed to be carrying food, water and spare parts for the Sun Sea.
A home away from home
After that, however, they lost track of the ship for good. Later, when the ship was sighted off the coast of Canada, Harinsuit found himself sitting in his office explaining to Thai Police and an RCMP attach‚ everything he could remember about Sun & Rshiya, Kunarobinson and the boat he sold them.
“I told them I never dreamed of this vessel going this far. I even told them it was impossible.”
The Tamils of Bangkok are a mix of traders and asylum-seekers drawn by word that the local office of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees was one of the easiest places to get official refugee status. A UN agency lists 800 officially recognized Tamil refugees living in the Thai capital, many who stay only a few months before they lose track of them.
Few of Thailand’s long-term resident Tamils appear to have been aboard the Sun Sea when it sailed.
Authorities believe most of the migrants flew in on tourist visas just before the Sun Sea left Songkhla.
When asked why they were going to Thailand, they were told to say “Just to enjoy,” explained another patron at the New Madras Cafe, which doubles as a hostel for recent Tamil arrivals and is located just two blocks North of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, the centre of spiritual life in Bangkok for the predominantly Hindu Tamils. “But they came because they were going to Canada.”
Though the cafe was almost deserted, the middle-aged man was nervous as he spoke, looking over his shoulder and eventually resorting to writing his answers down on paper so they couldn’t be overheard.
Official Thai documents show that on May 1, authorities sent out a bulletin that 120 Tamils had been spotted travelling from Bangkok to Songkhla in a caravan of two buses and two vans. They were last spotted in the fishing hamlet of Ban Lae, on the outskirts of Songkhla.
“There were four Sri Lankans or Indians who came here in May. They walked around the village and talked among themselves and then two of them came back the next day with two other Sri Lankan people. It was like they were surveying,” said Dollosh Suksuwan, a 30-year-old unemployed oil worker who lives in Ban Lae cargo out to sea. “After dark, after 10 p.m., no one will ask what you are doing.”
Thai authorities believe that the people smugglers used Ban Lae and other fishing villages to ferry their human cargo out to the Sun Sea in small groups. “They could do it anywhere off the coast of Thailand. Thailand has a lot of fishing boats,” a Thai navy source said.
Only one Bangkok Tamil, a man known locally as Anton, is known to be among those who left. After years of living in Thailand with official UNHCR refugee status while his wife and family remained behind in Sri Lanka, Anton told friends in April his family was coming to Thailand to join him. Anton and his family disappeared from Bangkok shortly before the Sun Sea disappeared from Songkhla.
Asked how Anton, an ostensible refugee, could afford to bring his family to Canada at the reported $40,000 to $50,000 per place on the Sun Sea, the nervous cafe patron went silent again. After a pause, he again wrote on a piece of paper: “He was LTTE,” as in the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The Tamil Tigers.
The front man
Christhurajah Kunarobinson didn’t live like a man who owned his own business, nor one who was shopping for a 57-metre boat. The 30-year-old lived a Spartan existence in Thailand, paying just $80 month to rent an apartment in a poor neighbourhood of west Bangkok.
Thai documents show Kunarobinson flew into Bangkok from Colombo in April, 2008, on a tourist visa.
Courtesy: The Globe and Mail
To be continued
Friday, August 27, 2010
Basil meets Indian Agriculture Minister
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_04
Basil meets Indian Agriculture Minister
India will rush 500 tractors and several tons of groundnut and black gram seeds to help kick-start agriculture in the civil war-ravaged northern and eastern provinces after a gap of 30 years during the maha season, beginning next month.
This was disclosed by visiting Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa in an interview to The Island here day.
India will also send a large number of buffaloes and heads of cattle to boost Sri Lanka's livestock and milk production. This used to be an annual practice some years ago. It will be resumed this season at Sri Lanka's specific request.
Basil Rajapaksa, who is also in charge of resettlement, reconstruction and rehabilitation in the NorthEast, said: "I met Indian Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar on Tuesday and sought India's help to revive agriculture in the North and East, where we want to start agricultural activities along with farming in the rest of Sri Lanka."
The minister said: "Mr Pawar has readily agreed to help us out. India will send us 500 tractors and several tons of groundnuts and black gram. We have adequate stocks of paddy seeds."
"We have also requested him to send buffaloes and heads of cattle in adequate numbers to boost our live stock and milk production. He has promised to do so. We will be buying Indian buffaloes for the first time after many, many years."
Agricultural activities had come to a grinding halt in the NorthEast for nearly three decades because of the bloody civil war with the LTTE, which ended with the killing of Velupillai Prabhakaran in May last year.
"We will resume farming in the North and East this coming season. Thanks to India's help, we will be able to undertake agricultural operations all across our country at the same time for the first time in 30 years during the coming season," he declared.
Rajapaksa said: "The maha season is starting pretty soon. So, I requested Mr Pawar to rush the tractors, groundnut and black gram seeds, buffaloes and other cattle as soon as possible."
On Tuesday, the minister met Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna and Tourism Minister Kumari Selja. He arrived here on Monday night, and had dinner with Foreign Secretary Mrs Nirupama Rao.
Rajapaksa said: " During my visit to India this time, we did not spend too much time discussing resettlement because it will be coming to an end soon. Instead, we concentrated on future plans for our North and East."
Courtesy : The Island
Basil meets Indian Agriculture Minister
India will rush 500 tractors and several tons of groundnut and black gram seeds to help kick-start agriculture in the civil war-ravaged northern and eastern provinces after a gap of 30 years during the maha season, beginning next month.
This was disclosed by visiting Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa in an interview to The Island here day.
India will also send a large number of buffaloes and heads of cattle to boost Sri Lanka's livestock and milk production. This used to be an annual practice some years ago. It will be resumed this season at Sri Lanka's specific request.
Basil Rajapaksa, who is also in charge of resettlement, reconstruction and rehabilitation in the NorthEast, said: "I met Indian Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar on Tuesday and sought India's help to revive agriculture in the North and East, where we want to start agricultural activities along with farming in the rest of Sri Lanka."
The minister said: "Mr Pawar has readily agreed to help us out. India will send us 500 tractors and several tons of groundnuts and black gram. We have adequate stocks of paddy seeds."
"We have also requested him to send buffaloes and heads of cattle in adequate numbers to boost our live stock and milk production. He has promised to do so. We will be buying Indian buffaloes for the first time after many, many years."
Agricultural activities had come to a grinding halt in the NorthEast for nearly three decades because of the bloody civil war with the LTTE, which ended with the killing of Velupillai Prabhakaran in May last year.
"We will resume farming in the North and East this coming season. Thanks to India's help, we will be able to undertake agricultural operations all across our country at the same time for the first time in 30 years during the coming season," he declared.
Rajapaksa said: "The maha season is starting pretty soon. So, I requested Mr Pawar to rush the tractors, groundnut and black gram seeds, buffaloes and other cattle as soon as possible."
On Tuesday, the minister met Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna and Tourism Minister Kumari Selja. He arrived here on Monday night, and had dinner with Foreign Secretary Mrs Nirupama Rao.
Rajapaksa said: " During my visit to India this time, we did not spend too much time discussing resettlement because it will be coming to an end soon. Instead, we concentrated on future plans for our North and East."
Courtesy : The Island
Sri Lanka tops charts for UK tourists - Times of London
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_09
Sri Lanka tops charts for UK tourists - Times of London
Sri Lanka is becoming one of the most popular long-haul destinations from the UK, according to The Times of London newspaper.
In an article published on 25th August titled 'Sri Lanka tops the charts for UK tourists on a bargain hunt' the influential paper says that visits from the UK increased by 51 per cent last month compared with 2009, encouraged by big discounting by airlines and hoteliers striving to win back business.
The story explains that the British travel boom to Sri Lankan is due to "the relative calm restored after decades of bombings and bloody battles with the Tamil Tigers and devastation caused by the tsunami in 2004."
The Times says that one British-based specialist long-haul tour operator, Hayes and Jarvis, reports that bookings for winter and next summer are also up.
The paper adds that some of the best deals for British holidaymakers can be found at the five-star Heritance Ahungalla - designed by the celebrated Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa - one of the best beach hotels in the country.
The total number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka went up 50 percent to 63,339 in July 2010, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, according to figures released by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. In July 2009 only 42,223 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.
The tourism office figures showed an increase in the number of arrivals from Western Europe, South Asia, East Asia, Middle East and North America in July 2010.
Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka increased by 48.4% during the first half of 2010 (January-June), with a total of 278,652 arrivals to the country in comparison to 187,729 arrivals during the same period last year (2009).
Sri Lanka was recently ranked as the number one tourist destination by the 'New York Times' in its list of "31 Places to go in 2010".
Just days after this ranking, a leading lifestyle web resource, Daily Candy, weighed in with a similarly enthusiastic travel recommendation, praising Sri Lanka as "the best place ever been".
The United Kingdom recently stated that it is no longer advising its citizens against travel to Kilinochchi, Mannar, Mullaittivu and Vavuniya.
Commenting on changes to the UK Government's official advice on travel to Sri Lanka, Britain's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) stated, 'regarding to Jaffna Peninsula: there is free movement everywhere outside High Security Zones with a reduction in checkpoints around the Peninsula'.
USA and Germany too recently relaxed travel advisories. The German Embassy said that a long standing travel advisory had been eased enabling German tourists to visit earlier restricted locations such as Yala National Park and Arugam Bay.
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Sri Lanka tops charts for UK tourists - Times of London
Sri Lanka is becoming one of the most popular long-haul destinations from the UK, according to The Times of London newspaper.
In an article published on 25th August titled 'Sri Lanka tops the charts for UK tourists on a bargain hunt' the influential paper says that visits from the UK increased by 51 per cent last month compared with 2009, encouraged by big discounting by airlines and hoteliers striving to win back business.
The story explains that the British travel boom to Sri Lankan is due to "the relative calm restored after decades of bombings and bloody battles with the Tamil Tigers and devastation caused by the tsunami in 2004."
The Times says that one British-based specialist long-haul tour operator, Hayes and Jarvis, reports that bookings for winter and next summer are also up.
The paper adds that some of the best deals for British holidaymakers can be found at the five-star Heritance Ahungalla - designed by the celebrated Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa - one of the best beach hotels in the country.
The total number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka went up 50 percent to 63,339 in July 2010, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, according to figures released by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. In July 2009 only 42,223 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.
The tourism office figures showed an increase in the number of arrivals from Western Europe, South Asia, East Asia, Middle East and North America in July 2010.
Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka increased by 48.4% during the first half of 2010 (January-June), with a total of 278,652 arrivals to the country in comparison to 187,729 arrivals during the same period last year (2009).
Sri Lanka was recently ranked as the number one tourist destination by the 'New York Times' in its list of "31 Places to go in 2010".
Just days after this ranking, a leading lifestyle web resource, Daily Candy, weighed in with a similarly enthusiastic travel recommendation, praising Sri Lanka as "the best place ever been".
The United Kingdom recently stated that it is no longer advising its citizens against travel to Kilinochchi, Mannar, Mullaittivu and Vavuniya.
Commenting on changes to the UK Government's official advice on travel to Sri Lanka, Britain's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) stated, 'regarding to Jaffna Peninsula: there is free movement everywhere outside High Security Zones with a reduction in checkpoints around the Peninsula'.
USA and Germany too recently relaxed travel advisories. The German Embassy said that a long standing travel advisory had been eased enabling German tourists to visit earlier restricted locations such as Yala National Park and Arugam Bay.
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Terrorists resorting to piracy, a possibility - Kohona
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_08
Terrorists resorting to piracy, a possibility - Kohona
The likelihood of terrorists with naval capabilities, resorting to piracy becomes a distinct possibility, stated Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Palitha Kohona, speaking at the Security Council Debate on "The Situation in Somalia - Piracy" on 25th August.
Gaps in the counter measures undertaken at present and due to its lucrative financial advantages, piracy could soon spread its vicious tentacles to other regions, endangering sea lanes and global communications, he stressed.
A collective and a more dedicated international effort must be made to deal with piracy and must ensure that the global community is rid of this problem, Dr. Kohona added.
I wish to put on record that the dense shipping lane South of Dondra Head in Sri Lanka has been free of any piracy or other criminal activity in spite of the high intensity maritime terrorist activity using very sophisticated vessels, in the seas around Sri Lanka over a period of 28 years, he said adding, 'Sri Lanka's success in keeping this vital sea-lane safe for international shipping over the years is a significant record. It must not be allowed to be threatened by pirates or similar criminals at any point due to complacency. Sri Lanka stands ready to share its expertise and personnel in this regard'.
Following is the statement by Ambassador Dr. Palitha T.B. Kohona :
Mr. President,
At the outset I wish to join other speakers in condemning the attack on high government officials in Mogadishu and expressing our sympathies to the bereaved families. I take this opportunity to thank the Presidency of the Security Council for organizing this important discussion. We would also wish to express our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report on possible options for countering piracy through prosecuting and imprisoning persons responsible for acts of piracy and armed robbery at sea, including, in particular, options for creating special domestic chambers, possibly with international components, a regional tribunal and international tribunals and corresponding imprisonment arrangements. We also welcome his proposal for a special representative.
Mr. President,
Piracy has become a major challenge in the contemporary world and its implications, especially to sea-borne trade, are immense. We believe that it is important in the battle against this scourge to share the modalities and options for prosecuting and imprisoning pirates, including for imprisonment in third countries, and for essential capacity building in the states concerned. Importantly, we also believe that the experience and the capacity to deter and counter piracy can be effectively shared.
Mr. President,
Piracy has had a dire effect on the political, social, economic and humanitarian fabric of Somalia. In addition to the Somali coast, piracy has made its presence felt further afield, with the potential to spread even further. Somali pirates have now become more sophisticated and are operating deep into the Indian Ocean, utilizing mother ships for launching their attacks. If this threat is not effectively contained now, it will encourage other criminals to engage in piracy to achieve their own ends. The likelihood of terrorists with naval capabilities, resorting to piracy also becomes a distinct possibility. Gaps in the counter measures undertaken at present and due to its lucrative financial advantages, piracy could soon spread its vicious tentacles to other regions, endangering sea lanes and global communications. International commerce will be forced to bear an additional and costly burden, including through the adoption of additional protective measures, increased insurance coverage and diversion of ships to other longer routes.
Today, countering piracy is central to nations dependant on seaborne commerce, in particular those dependent on the sea for their energy needs. Efforts to counter piracy at regional level and through coalitions do not appear to have succeeded in overcoming this menace. Despite the existence of a 24 nation naval task force, the Somali pirates continue to harass ships, though the number of incidents have decreased. A collective and a more dedicated international effort must be made to deal with this problem and ensure that the global community is rid of this problem.
Mr. President,
We believe that to achieve success there is much that can be done at national and international levels. Piracy originates on land and anti-piracy measures must begin on land. In addition to deploying naval deterrence, anti piracy laws need to be strengthened and strenuously implemented. Improving domestic laws and regulations, increasing the efficiency of law enforcement, ratifying international agreements and implementing them and practical international cooperation will be essential. We call for the full implementation of Security Council resolutions 1846 & 1851 on counter piracy military operations. Regional cooperation between navies and coast guards, including technical assistance must necessarily feature prominently.
It is encouraging to note that many international organizations and regional navies have been active in hosting seminars and discussions and sharing experiences. Sri Lanka hosted the Galle Dialogue only this month.
As the threat scenario and the counter measures at sea have evolved, it is time for us to revisit all international legal instruments pertinent to this challenge. Limitations in or absence of definitions have posed difficulties when executing search warrants, making arrests and conducting prosecutions.
Mr. President,
Having successfully countered a flotilla of small craft employed by a terrorist group and effectively protected large vessels transporting cargo and personnel by sea, we believe that the immediate answer to piracy at the tactical level would be to place, On Board Security Teams (OBST) consisting of well trained naval personnel on board merchant vessels as they would be a visible deterrent. They would, if required, react with much more immediate effectiveness. For this, we consider that United Nations involvement is important, particularly since the pirate threat posed in Somali waters has now spread to many adjacent areas. We consider that it is important for the United Nations to take a lead role in this respect.
I wish to put on record that the dense shipping lane South of Dondra Head in Sri Lanka has been free of any piracy or other criminal activity in spite of the high intensity maritime terrorist activity using very sophisticated vessels, in the seas around Sri Lanka over a period of 28 years. Sri Lanka's success in keeping this vital sea-lane safe for international shipping over the years is a significant record. It must not be allowed to be threatened by pirates or similar criminals at any point due to complacency. Sri Lanka stands ready to share its expertise and personnel in this regard.
Mr. President,
In conclusion, addressing piracy around Somali waters in a sustainable manner would require a combination of domestic and international security strategies. We hope that the United Nations will take a practical and a lead role in this endeavour. I thank you.
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Terrorists resorting to piracy, a possibility - Kohona
The likelihood of terrorists with naval capabilities, resorting to piracy becomes a distinct possibility, stated Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Palitha Kohona, speaking at the Security Council Debate on "The Situation in Somalia - Piracy" on 25th August.
Gaps in the counter measures undertaken at present and due to its lucrative financial advantages, piracy could soon spread its vicious tentacles to other regions, endangering sea lanes and global communications, he stressed.
A collective and a more dedicated international effort must be made to deal with piracy and must ensure that the global community is rid of this problem, Dr. Kohona added.
I wish to put on record that the dense shipping lane South of Dondra Head in Sri Lanka has been free of any piracy or other criminal activity in spite of the high intensity maritime terrorist activity using very sophisticated vessels, in the seas around Sri Lanka over a period of 28 years, he said adding, 'Sri Lanka's success in keeping this vital sea-lane safe for international shipping over the years is a significant record. It must not be allowed to be threatened by pirates or similar criminals at any point due to complacency. Sri Lanka stands ready to share its expertise and personnel in this regard'.
Following is the statement by Ambassador Dr. Palitha T.B. Kohona :
Mr. President,
At the outset I wish to join other speakers in condemning the attack on high government officials in Mogadishu and expressing our sympathies to the bereaved families. I take this opportunity to thank the Presidency of the Security Council for organizing this important discussion. We would also wish to express our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report on possible options for countering piracy through prosecuting and imprisoning persons responsible for acts of piracy and armed robbery at sea, including, in particular, options for creating special domestic chambers, possibly with international components, a regional tribunal and international tribunals and corresponding imprisonment arrangements. We also welcome his proposal for a special representative.
Mr. President,
Piracy has become a major challenge in the contemporary world and its implications, especially to sea-borne trade, are immense. We believe that it is important in the battle against this scourge to share the modalities and options for prosecuting and imprisoning pirates, including for imprisonment in third countries, and for essential capacity building in the states concerned. Importantly, we also believe that the experience and the capacity to deter and counter piracy can be effectively shared.
Mr. President,
Piracy has had a dire effect on the political, social, economic and humanitarian fabric of Somalia. In addition to the Somali coast, piracy has made its presence felt further afield, with the potential to spread even further. Somali pirates have now become more sophisticated and are operating deep into the Indian Ocean, utilizing mother ships for launching their attacks. If this threat is not effectively contained now, it will encourage other criminals to engage in piracy to achieve their own ends. The likelihood of terrorists with naval capabilities, resorting to piracy also becomes a distinct possibility. Gaps in the counter measures undertaken at present and due to its lucrative financial advantages, piracy could soon spread its vicious tentacles to other regions, endangering sea lanes and global communications. International commerce will be forced to bear an additional and costly burden, including through the adoption of additional protective measures, increased insurance coverage and diversion of ships to other longer routes.
Today, countering piracy is central to nations dependant on seaborne commerce, in particular those dependent on the sea for their energy needs. Efforts to counter piracy at regional level and through coalitions do not appear to have succeeded in overcoming this menace. Despite the existence of a 24 nation naval task force, the Somali pirates continue to harass ships, though the number of incidents have decreased. A collective and a more dedicated international effort must be made to deal with this problem and ensure that the global community is rid of this problem.
Mr. President,
We believe that to achieve success there is much that can be done at national and international levels. Piracy originates on land and anti-piracy measures must begin on land. In addition to deploying naval deterrence, anti piracy laws need to be strengthened and strenuously implemented. Improving domestic laws and regulations, increasing the efficiency of law enforcement, ratifying international agreements and implementing them and practical international cooperation will be essential. We call for the full implementation of Security Council resolutions 1846 & 1851 on counter piracy military operations. Regional cooperation between navies and coast guards, including technical assistance must necessarily feature prominently.
It is encouraging to note that many international organizations and regional navies have been active in hosting seminars and discussions and sharing experiences. Sri Lanka hosted the Galle Dialogue only this month.
As the threat scenario and the counter measures at sea have evolved, it is time for us to revisit all international legal instruments pertinent to this challenge. Limitations in or absence of definitions have posed difficulties when executing search warrants, making arrests and conducting prosecutions.
Mr. President,
Having successfully countered a flotilla of small craft employed by a terrorist group and effectively protected large vessels transporting cargo and personnel by sea, we believe that the immediate answer to piracy at the tactical level would be to place, On Board Security Teams (OBST) consisting of well trained naval personnel on board merchant vessels as they would be a visible deterrent. They would, if required, react with much more immediate effectiveness. For this, we consider that United Nations involvement is important, particularly since the pirate threat posed in Somali waters has now spread to many adjacent areas. We consider that it is important for the United Nations to take a lead role in this respect.
I wish to put on record that the dense shipping lane South of Dondra Head in Sri Lanka has been free of any piracy or other criminal activity in spite of the high intensity maritime terrorist activity using very sophisticated vessels, in the seas around Sri Lanka over a period of 28 years. Sri Lanka's success in keeping this vital sea-lane safe for international shipping over the years is a significant record. It must not be allowed to be threatened by pirates or similar criminals at any point due to complacency. Sri Lanka stands ready to share its expertise and personnel in this regard.
Mr. President,
In conclusion, addressing piracy around Somali waters in a sustainable manner would require a combination of domestic and international security strategies. We hope that the United Nations will take a practical and a lead role in this endeavour. I thank you.
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Substantial progress in resettlement and de-mining - Buhne
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_07
Substantial progress in resettlement and de-mining - Buhne
'Combined efforts ensured 300,000 + to access safe water and sanitation facilities'
There has been substantial progress over the last months and since late 2009, approximately 200,000 people have returned to their villages in the North, stated the United Nations Resident/ Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) Neil Buhne.
Addressing the donors assisting the work of humanitarian organizations supporting Sri Lanka's national efforts, Buhne further stated, notable contributions to humanitarian efforts come from de-mining actors of both government, and national and international agencies, who have cleared and released land, paving the way for the resettlement of the displaced.
He added that combined efforts have ensured that over 300,000 people have had access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Common services such as health, nutrition and education have also made significant improvements in effort to normalize life in return areas and for those in camps.
He reiterated the urgent need to stay the course in helping displaced persons and returned communities, and stressed that the effectiveness of assistance during this period will affect both the people directly and Sri Lanka's overall development.
Following is the press release issued yesterday (26 August) by the UN, Colombo :
Stay the course, urges Buhne, appealing to international community
The United Nations Resident/ Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) Neil Buhne reiterated the urgent need to stay the course in helping displaced persons and returned communities when briefing donors assisting the work of humanitarian organizations supporting Sri Lanka's national efforts.
"The job is not yet done. It is still a critical period and we ask for your continued support to meet the remaining crucial needs" Buhne said. He also stressed that the effectiveness of assistance during this period will affect both the people directly and Sri Lanka's overall development.
"The welfare of the returned people, is an important element in reconciliation and ultimately, sustainable peace and development".
There has been substantial progress over the last months and since late 2009, approximately 200,000 people have returned to their villages in the North. Although a declining number of IDPs [Internally Displaced Persons] are with host families, it is estimated that 70,000 remain displaced or are in transit sites near their home areas. Less than 35,000 IDPs remain in emergency sites.
Notable contributions to humanitarian efforts come from demining actors of both government, and national and international agencies, who have cleared and released land, paving the way for the resettlement of the displaced. A shelter grant of US$ 220 (LKR 25,000) per family has been received by 55,000 families along with an equal number of non-food item kits. Four thousand permanent homes are under construction and a further 50,000 is pledged by the Indian Government.
So far in 2010, over 30,000 MT of food was provided to nearly 750,000 beneficiaries in the North who are reliant on food assistance. However, rebuilding livelihoods and agricultural productivity remains a common goal. Some 24,000 households have received poultry and seeds, water pumps and crop sprayers to support the ongoing Yala season cultivation of 10,600 acres. The upcoming Maha will target around 50,000 households and aims to cultivate 130,000 acres of abandoned land.
Combined efforts have ensured that over 300,000 people have had access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Common services such as health, nutrition and education have also made significant improvements in effort to normalize life in return areas and for those in camps.
Despite these real achievements, returned persons remain vulnerable, needing support until livelihoods are restored. Funding shortages have reduced the capacity to deliver immediate assistance to the residual camp population and returning communities. There are shortfalls for all sectors, but the largest are for work on Economic Recovery and Infrastructure, Water and Sanitation, Agriculture and Health.
Although generous donations of about US$ 125 million have made these response operations possible, US$ 165 million more is needed to cover gaps for activities planned by the UN and humanitarian organizations during the remainder of 2010 in support of the national programmes.
Over the last year and a half, through a broad partnership in support of Sri Lankan national efforts, hundreds of thousands of people who had to flee from fighting to safety, were given humanitarian assistance. The RC/HC says "Difficult, hard, and urgent work was done. Lives were saved and people helped to get back their strength to rebuild lives", he added "funding for this work came from the Government, people throughout Sri Lanka and from donor governments. However, as all of us know, there is much more to be done - recently returned people are still vulnerable"
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Substantial progress in resettlement and de-mining - Buhne
'Combined efforts ensured 300,000 + to access safe water and sanitation facilities'
There has been substantial progress over the last months and since late 2009, approximately 200,000 people have returned to their villages in the North, stated the United Nations Resident/ Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) Neil Buhne.
Addressing the donors assisting the work of humanitarian organizations supporting Sri Lanka's national efforts, Buhne further stated, notable contributions to humanitarian efforts come from de-mining actors of both government, and national and international agencies, who have cleared and released land, paving the way for the resettlement of the displaced.
He added that combined efforts have ensured that over 300,000 people have had access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Common services such as health, nutrition and education have also made significant improvements in effort to normalize life in return areas and for those in camps.
He reiterated the urgent need to stay the course in helping displaced persons and returned communities, and stressed that the effectiveness of assistance during this period will affect both the people directly and Sri Lanka's overall development.
Following is the press release issued yesterday (26 August) by the UN, Colombo :
Stay the course, urges Buhne, appealing to international community
The United Nations Resident/ Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) Neil Buhne reiterated the urgent need to stay the course in helping displaced persons and returned communities when briefing donors assisting the work of humanitarian organizations supporting Sri Lanka's national efforts.
"The job is not yet done. It is still a critical period and we ask for your continued support to meet the remaining crucial needs" Buhne said. He also stressed that the effectiveness of assistance during this period will affect both the people directly and Sri Lanka's overall development.
"The welfare of the returned people, is an important element in reconciliation and ultimately, sustainable peace and development".
There has been substantial progress over the last months and since late 2009, approximately 200,000 people have returned to their villages in the North. Although a declining number of IDPs [Internally Displaced Persons] are with host families, it is estimated that 70,000 remain displaced or are in transit sites near their home areas. Less than 35,000 IDPs remain in emergency sites.
Notable contributions to humanitarian efforts come from demining actors of both government, and national and international agencies, who have cleared and released land, paving the way for the resettlement of the displaced. A shelter grant of US$ 220 (LKR 25,000) per family has been received by 55,000 families along with an equal number of non-food item kits. Four thousand permanent homes are under construction and a further 50,000 is pledged by the Indian Government.
So far in 2010, over 30,000 MT of food was provided to nearly 750,000 beneficiaries in the North who are reliant on food assistance. However, rebuilding livelihoods and agricultural productivity remains a common goal. Some 24,000 households have received poultry and seeds, water pumps and crop sprayers to support the ongoing Yala season cultivation of 10,600 acres. The upcoming Maha will target around 50,000 households and aims to cultivate 130,000 acres of abandoned land.
Combined efforts have ensured that over 300,000 people have had access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Common services such as health, nutrition and education have also made significant improvements in effort to normalize life in return areas and for those in camps.
Despite these real achievements, returned persons remain vulnerable, needing support until livelihoods are restored. Funding shortages have reduced the capacity to deliver immediate assistance to the residual camp population and returning communities. There are shortfalls for all sectors, but the largest are for work on Economic Recovery and Infrastructure, Water and Sanitation, Agriculture and Health.
Although generous donations of about US$ 125 million have made these response operations possible, US$ 165 million more is needed to cover gaps for activities planned by the UN and humanitarian organizations during the remainder of 2010 in support of the national programmes.
Over the last year and a half, through a broad partnership in support of Sri Lankan national efforts, hundreds of thousands of people who had to flee from fighting to safety, were given humanitarian assistance. The RC/HC says "Difficult, hard, and urgent work was done. Lives were saved and people helped to get back their strength to rebuild lives", he added "funding for this work came from the Government, people throughout Sri Lanka and from donor governments. However, as all of us know, there is much more to be done - recently returned people are still vulnerable"
Courtesy : President Media Unit
Last modified on: 8/27/2010 11:21:01 AM 60 ex-LTTE combatants receive industrial based vocational training in Kalutata
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_05
60 ex-LTTE combatants receive industrial based vocational training in Kalutata
Sixty more ex-LTTE combatants as the 5th batch of the vocational training project (The Cheer Project) which is a specially designed industrial based training to produce skilled labour, commenced their training at vocational training center in Payagala, Kalutara last Wednesday, (25th August).
The project will impart skills in Mason, Carpentry, Welding works and Electrical works; to the trainees for two weeks under professionally qualified panel of instructors, said an official of the rehabilitation commissioner general's office.
The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industries of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) sponsor the project. Previous four batches comprising 60 male ex-combatants in each were trained similarly at the center paving the way for them to find opportunities in industrial sector. After completion of the two weeks comprehensive theoretical and practical training sessions, each will be given an internationally recognized certificate.
Special function was held to mark the commencement of the training for the 5th batch at the Payagala vocational training center. President of FCCISL Mr Kosala Wickramanayake, Director General of FCCISL Dr Thusitha Thennakoon, National Project Director of FCCISL Mr Sams Stambo and Colonel Jayathilake representing rehabilitation Commissioner General were present at the occasion.
60 ex-LTTE combatants receive industrial based vocational training in Kalutata
Sixty more ex-LTTE combatants as the 5th batch of the vocational training project (The Cheer Project) which is a specially designed industrial based training to produce skilled labour, commenced their training at vocational training center in Payagala, Kalutara last Wednesday, (25th August).
The project will impart skills in Mason, Carpentry, Welding works and Electrical works; to the trainees for two weeks under professionally qualified panel of instructors, said an official of the rehabilitation commissioner general's office.
The Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industries of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) sponsor the project. Previous four batches comprising 60 male ex-combatants in each were trained similarly at the center paving the way for them to find opportunities in industrial sector. After completion of the two weeks comprehensive theoretical and practical training sessions, each will be given an internationally recognized certificate.
Special function was held to mark the commencement of the training for the 5th batch at the Payagala vocational training center. President of FCCISL Mr Kosala Wickramanayake, Director General of FCCISL Dr Thusitha Thennakoon, National Project Director of FCCISL Mr Sams Stambo and Colonel Jayathilake representing rehabilitation Commissioner General were present at the occasion.
Vehicles abandoned during war being returned to owners
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_03
Vehicles abandoned during war being returned to owners
The Government last week commenced a programme in Kilinochchi to restore to their rightful owners a large number of motor vehicles abandoned in Mullaitivu and the adjoining areas when civilians fled the heavy fighting between security forces and the LTTE in May last year.
The first batch of 780 motor cycles and 12 heavy vehicles were handed over to the owners on August 21 and 22 by the Governor of the North Major General (rtd) G. A. Chandrasiri at the Kilinochchi District Secretariat. District Secretary Rupawathi Ketheeswaran also participated.
The Commissioner General of Motor Traffic Lalith Dharmasiri dispatched 22 motor traffic examiners from Colombo, Jaffna and Batticaloa to assist in the handing over. They examined the ownership papers, the registration and chassis numbers of the vehicles to ensure that they were not claimed by the wrong party.
Another 6,700 motor cycles and 100 heavy vehicles would be released to the rightful owners within the next few days, Vavuniya District Secretariat sources said.
The motor traffic examiners returned to Colombo but would be dispatched to Kilinochchi whenever the necessity arose, he said.
Vehicles abandoned during war being returned to owners
The Government last week commenced a programme in Kilinochchi to restore to their rightful owners a large number of motor vehicles abandoned in Mullaitivu and the adjoining areas when civilians fled the heavy fighting between security forces and the LTTE in May last year.
The first batch of 780 motor cycles and 12 heavy vehicles were handed over to the owners on August 21 and 22 by the Governor of the North Major General (rtd) G. A. Chandrasiri at the Kilinochchi District Secretariat. District Secretary Rupawathi Ketheeswaran also participated.
The Commissioner General of Motor Traffic Lalith Dharmasiri dispatched 22 motor traffic examiners from Colombo, Jaffna and Batticaloa to assist in the handing over. They examined the ownership papers, the registration and chassis numbers of the vehicles to ensure that they were not claimed by the wrong party.
Another 6,700 motor cycles and 100 heavy vehicles would be released to the rightful owners within the next few days, Vavuniya District Secretariat sources said.
The motor traffic examiners returned to Colombo but would be dispatched to Kilinochchi whenever the necessity arose, he said.
Govt launches paddy project
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100827_01
Govt launches paddy project
The Government plans to launch a major paddy cultivation project in the Northern Province during the Maha season engaging 70,000 acres of land. Most of the small tanks adjoining the paddy fields will be repaired.
Northern Province Governor G A Chandrasiri said the Government has accelerated the program to clean the jungle areas in Mannar, Vavuniya, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts and make them ready before the Maha season. "There are much abandoned lands which were left neglected in the North. These lands have become dense jungles because of the conflict.
Under the Uthuru Vasanthaya (Northern Spring) program, the Government intends to use them for the benefit of the Northerners and uplift their livelihood," he added. Governor Chandrasiri told the Daily News that nearly 40,000 acres of land are being used for paddy cultivation at the moment in the Northern Province. They intend to double it during the Maha season. Around 70,000 acres of land will be used for the paddy cultivation in Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi districts.
The paddy cultivation project in the North will be carried out under the Emergency Northern Recovery Program (ENREP).
Chandrasiri noted that farmers in the area will be provided with adequate seeds and fertilizer. The Government also commenced to renovate small tanks adjoining the paddy fields in order to support the farmers with required water supply.
Courtesy : Daily News
Govt launches paddy project
The Government plans to launch a major paddy cultivation project in the Northern Province during the Maha season engaging 70,000 acres of land. Most of the small tanks adjoining the paddy fields will be repaired.
Northern Province Governor G A Chandrasiri said the Government has accelerated the program to clean the jungle areas in Mannar, Vavuniya, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts and make them ready before the Maha season. "There are much abandoned lands which were left neglected in the North. These lands have become dense jungles because of the conflict.
Under the Uthuru Vasanthaya (Northern Spring) program, the Government intends to use them for the benefit of the Northerners and uplift their livelihood," he added. Governor Chandrasiri told the Daily News that nearly 40,000 acres of land are being used for paddy cultivation at the moment in the Northern Province. They intend to double it during the Maha season. Around 70,000 acres of land will be used for the paddy cultivation in Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi districts.
The paddy cultivation project in the North will be carried out under the Emergency Northern Recovery Program (ENREP).
Chandrasiri noted that farmers in the area will be provided with adequate seeds and fertilizer. The Government also commenced to renovate small tanks adjoining the paddy fields in order to support the farmers with required water supply.
Courtesy : Daily News
Clearing operations recover more LTTE weapons
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100826_05
Clearing operations recover more LTTE weapons
Sri Lankan troops of 21 Division engaging clearing operations in general area Dharmapuram recovered two mobile phones, one CIM card, one memory chip and one battery charger yesterday (25 Agust 2010).
Meanwhile troops of 56 Division making their operations in general area Alamkulam recovered 68 x 60 mm mortar bombs, four mortar trappings, one 40mm TOMBA bomb and two MBRL ammo noses and in general area Mahilankulam they found 61 AP mines yesterday.
Separately troops of 61 Division recovered 10 AP mines in general area Malwarayankaddaiadampan, one hand grenade in general area Madhu, one AP mine (JONNY 99) in general area Vavunikulam and 11 AP mines in general area Palampiddi. In Mannar District troops recovered 41 AP mines and 5 UXOsin general area Kollankulam and Nedunkandal yesterday.
Clearing operations recover more LTTE weapons
Sri Lankan troops of 21 Division engaging clearing operations in general area Dharmapuram recovered two mobile phones, one CIM card, one memory chip and one battery charger yesterday (25 Agust 2010).
Meanwhile troops of 56 Division making their operations in general area Alamkulam recovered 68 x 60 mm mortar bombs, four mortar trappings, one 40mm TOMBA bomb and two MBRL ammo noses and in general area Mahilankulam they found 61 AP mines yesterday.
Separately troops of 61 Division recovered 10 AP mines in general area Malwarayankaddaiadampan, one hand grenade in general area Madhu, one AP mine (JONNY 99) in general area Vavunikulam and 11 AP mines in general area Palampiddi. In Mannar District troops recovered 41 AP mines and 5 UXOsin general area Kollankulam and Nedunkandal yesterday.
Special education programmes for ex-combatants
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100826_04
Special education programmes for ex-combatants
The Government of Sri Lanka under directives of H.E President Mahinda Rajapaksa has already laid out a key aspect of the roadmap to reconciliation by initiating the rehabilitation of ex-LTTE combatants whilst getting them absorbed into the country's development drive.
During the final phase of the humanitarian mission (the world's largest hostage rescue mission) launched by the security forces, over 250,000 civilians who were held hostage by LTTE terrorists were rescued. Over 12,000 ex-LTTE combatants had later surrendered themselves to the security forces. The Sri Lankan government under direct supervision of Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa designed a comprehensive programme to rehabilitate those ex-combatants at the Rehabilitation Centers established in Jaffna and Vavuniya.
Accordingly, special education programmes were introduced for the ex-combatants to continue their studies- preparing them for the G.C.E Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations. With the assistance of the Vavuniya zonal educational office, the program began at the Punthottam training center for females while a similar program for males was held at the Tamil primary school in Vavuniya,
An official of the Rehabilitation Commissioners' office said that 120 males and 48 females are preparing to sit the G.C.E O/L examination in December 2010. In addition, 228 males and 98 females who underwent specially designed education programmes sat the G.C.E A/L Examination in August 2010. According to statistics, 16 ex-combatants including 8 males are continuing their studies in the bio-science stream, 12 including 2 females in the math's stream, 65 including 13 females in the commerce stream while 232 including 75 females are preparing to sit the A/L exam in the arts and humanities stream.
Principal of the female training center in Punthottam, Mrs Renuka Seyaruban, said that 21 professional teachers assigned by the Vavuniya zonal education office are currently contributing their maximum to make the program a success. "The Vavuniya zonal education center organized a series of seminars to further enhance the program and the ex-combatants are exceedingly keen on the program as it is a great opportunity for them to achieve a brighter future" she further said.
K Sangeetha, 23 years of age, who is preparing to sit the G.C.E O/L examination this year expressing her views, paid gratitude on the Government and security forces for initiating such programs. "My home town is Jaffna with six members in my family. I studied at Wallipuram primary school and stayed at the school hostel. LTTE forcibly recruited us for the outfit and I served at LTTE's medical corps for four months. Luckily, I was able to escape the outfit and managed to return to my home. Following the defeat of the LTTE organization I surrendered myself to the security forces" she said.
"Now I can continue my studies. Though I can't go back to school as I am overage, the Army provides all necessary facilities here for us to continue our studies. My ambition is to become a nurse after getting through O/L exam" she further said.
Special education programmes for ex-combatants
The Government of Sri Lanka under directives of H.E President Mahinda Rajapaksa has already laid out a key aspect of the roadmap to reconciliation by initiating the rehabilitation of ex-LTTE combatants whilst getting them absorbed into the country's development drive.
During the final phase of the humanitarian mission (the world's largest hostage rescue mission) launched by the security forces, over 250,000 civilians who were held hostage by LTTE terrorists were rescued. Over 12,000 ex-LTTE combatants had later surrendered themselves to the security forces. The Sri Lankan government under direct supervision of Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa designed a comprehensive programme to rehabilitate those ex-combatants at the Rehabilitation Centers established in Jaffna and Vavuniya.
Accordingly, special education programmes were introduced for the ex-combatants to continue their studies- preparing them for the G.C.E Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations. With the assistance of the Vavuniya zonal educational office, the program began at the Punthottam training center for females while a similar program for males was held at the Tamil primary school in Vavuniya,
An official of the Rehabilitation Commissioners' office said that 120 males and 48 females are preparing to sit the G.C.E O/L examination in December 2010. In addition, 228 males and 98 females who underwent specially designed education programmes sat the G.C.E A/L Examination in August 2010. According to statistics, 16 ex-combatants including 8 males are continuing their studies in the bio-science stream, 12 including 2 females in the math's stream, 65 including 13 females in the commerce stream while 232 including 75 females are preparing to sit the A/L exam in the arts and humanities stream.
Principal of the female training center in Punthottam, Mrs Renuka Seyaruban, said that 21 professional teachers assigned by the Vavuniya zonal education office are currently contributing their maximum to make the program a success. "The Vavuniya zonal education center organized a series of seminars to further enhance the program and the ex-combatants are exceedingly keen on the program as it is a great opportunity for them to achieve a brighter future" she further said.
K Sangeetha, 23 years of age, who is preparing to sit the G.C.E O/L examination this year expressing her views, paid gratitude on the Government and security forces for initiating such programs. "My home town is Jaffna with six members in my family. I studied at Wallipuram primary school and stayed at the school hostel. LTTE forcibly recruited us for the outfit and I served at LTTE's medical corps for four months. Luckily, I was able to escape the outfit and managed to return to my home. Following the defeat of the LTTE organization I surrendered myself to the security forces" she said.
"Now I can continue my studies. Though I can't go back to school as I am overage, the Army provides all necessary facilities here for us to continue our studies. My ambition is to become a nurse after getting through O/L exam" she further said.
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