President Maithripala Sirisena says all the parties must fulfill their respective duties to build a better society within a religious environment as, principles and guidance needed to achieve this goal is included in the Tripitaka, Bible, Quran as well as in the Bhagavad Gita.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed satisfaction in Sri Lanka being named as the Top Destination for 2019 by The Lonely Planet, yesterday.

The Galle Dialogue 2018; International Maritime Conference was inaugurated yesterday (22) in Colombo under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that mankind has no future without the blessings of the nature. He said this while addressing the Presidential Environmental Awards 2018 at the BMICH in Colombo October 19.

Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who paid an official visit to India from 18-20 October 2018, met with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi for bilateral discussions.

The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for implementation of a cost reflective formula based pricing system of Auto Fuels effective from May 11, 2018.

The sufficient energy supply and energy security are critically important in economic growth and prosperity.

Sri Lanka welcomes these series of initiatives of the Commonwealth, that aims to enhance national capacities to reduce disaster risk.

Vice President of Seychelles Vincent Meriton called on President Maithripala Sirisena who is on a two day visit to Seychelles yesterday (09).

Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Secretary General of Asia Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association (APRACA),Members of the APRACA Executive Committee,Chairman, Bank of Ceylon,Delegates and Representatives of APRACA Member Institutions,Distinguished Invitees,Ladies and gentlemen,

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived at the Seychelles International Airport this morning (October 8) commencing a two-day official visit on the invitation of Seychelles President Danny Faure.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Hon. Mangala Samaraweera is to present the budget proposals for the year 2019 under the theme of A strong economy and a fertile land'.

22,000 to 22,957 persons have been granted loans under the Sri Lanka Government Subsidy Loan Scheme initiated by the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media with the objective of producing 100,000 new entrepreneurs.

President Maithripala Sirisena returned to the country yesterday (30) after successfully concluding his visit to New York, USA where he attended the 73rd sessions of the UN General Assembly.

The United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted a reception for all the visiting Heads of State to the 73rd Session of the United Nation General Assembly today (26) in New York Palace hotel.

.Minister of Finance and Mass Media Hon. Mangala Samaraweera grants appointments to new customs officials.

President Maithripala Sirisena called upon the international community to look at Sri Lanka with a fresh perspective and consider the tremendous progress made by the government towards reconciliation, restoration of democratic freedoms, human rights and the rule of law and extend the fullest support to the build a progressive, democratic, free and equal society.

The Enterprise Sri Lanka projects which was launched by the Ministry of Finance and Mass media to inspire, assist and create a minimum of 100,000 new entrepreneurs has received Rs 8 billion ( USD 50 Million) from the Asian Development Bank for the rooftop solar power generation project.

VAT is an end user consumption tax, and therefore should not be applied to goods and services that are consumed outside of Sri Lanka. By introducing such a TVR scheme, Sri Lanka will be aligning itself with international best practices Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Finance and Media said yesterday (11th).

The State Literary Awards Ceremony 2018, an occasion to give due accolades to the literati who enrich the field of literature in Sri Lanka with their creations, was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the BMICH, yesterday (11).


1. Middle Income Housing Loan Scheme (Document No. 09)

 

1.Strengthen the functions of the Commission to Investigate Allegations Of Bribery Or Corruption (Document No. 07)

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will depart to Hanoi, Vietnam today (10) a three-day official to attend the World Economic Forum on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (WEF ASEAN).

Representatives from international donor agencies that are providing development assistance to Sri Lanka said that they are ready to extend their fullest support for the efforts taken by the Sri Lankan President to achieve goals of development and reconciliation.
A meeting between President Maithripala Sirisena and those representatives was held at the Presidents Official Residence, 05th september.
Representatives from leading international donor agencies, including Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), World Bank (WB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Monetary Fund (IMF), United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) participated in this meeting.
President Sirisena thanked them for the support extended by these international financial institutions over a long period of time for the development programmes of Sri Lanka and further said that it is expected to expand this cooperation across a wide range of areas.
The President, expressing his views regarding the development programmes implemented across the country said that his objective is to deliver equal development benefits to all the citizens of the country while developing all nine provinces of the country in an equal manner. The President also noted that the Government is giving prominent attention to develop the North and East of the country which faced destruction due to the war while giving them right to development. President Sirisena also said that the assistance of the international organizations required to develop infrastructure facilities including providing a solution to the drinking water issue of those people. The President also stressed that the government is doing a great deal of work to eliminate the poverty from the country while declaring poverty eradicating year and implementing programmes.
Rehabilitating 88% of the people of North Eastern Provinces has been almost done while the President admits that the government is moving forward with the motive that remaining 12% should be completed as early as possible and that government will pay special attention on providing solutions to unemployment of the youth in North Eastern provinces and the issue of narcotic drug control. Special programmes are being implemented for this purpose.
President Sirisena mentioned that it is important to receive the contribution of all the political representatives for the development procedure conducted by the current government in Northern and Eastern provinces and that it is his motive to see the victory of these objectives of development and reconciliation.
President Sirisena said that he has received the Interim Report of the Office of the Missing Persons established to look into the missing persons issue yesterday and that a cabinet sub -committee will be established to study the Report.
The President requested the representatives to support the program conducted for the welfare of the families of missing persons.
He emphasized that the government is dedicated towards building clean governance free of bribery and corruption.
Secretary to the President, Udaya R. Seneviratne, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance R.H.S. Samaratunga, and other government officers were present in this event.
Meanwhile, newly-appointed UN Resident Coordinator Designate, Ms. Hanaa Singer called on President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence.

The first edition of the rapid rural infrastructure investment scheme, Enterprise Sri Lanka-Gamperaliya exhibition which was held under the theme, From patriotic rebellion to development struggle from August 29 -31 in the Moneragala district was a grand success, with the participation of over 60,000 visitors from all over the country, Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera said.


1. Reconstruction of Sri Lank Maha Viharaya in Nepal (Document No. 09)

President Maithripala Sirisena presented air tickets to the six students of the Medical Education Unit of Rajarata University who are participating in the 12th Asia Pacific Conference on Tobacco at the Presidents office yesterday (4).

Let me first of all thank you for inviting me to address you today. I want to share some thoughts with you on the important and timely topic Development Landscape of Sri Lanka 2025.

President MaithripalaSirisena, who left for Nepal to attend the 4th Summit of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)arrived at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,yesterday (29).

President Maithripala Sirisena left Colombo this morning (Aug 29) to attend the 4th Summit of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multisectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which will be held from tomorrow until 31 August in Kathmandu.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera along with Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara and Deputy Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna visited the site of the Enterprise Sri Lanka Exhibition yesterday(28) in Monaragala to oversee the final arrangements of the exhibition.

The first of the island-wide series of Enterprise Sri Lanka and Gamperaliya exhibitions will kick off in Moneragala from Aug. 29 to 31. The event will comprise 515 stalls and draw the participation of about 204 persons from the corporate sector, including those from abroad.

Sri Lanka and Vietnam yesterday agreed to further strengthen long-standing bilateral relations across multiple domains.


President Maithripala Sirisena chaired the first meeting of the Special Presidential Commission to review Public Sector Salaries at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (27).

The Sannasa (Scroll) on the successful conclusion of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena by Diyawadana Nilame Nelanga Dela Bandara at the Presidents House in Kandy yesterday( August 26).

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is due to address the inaugural season of the Indian Ocean conference which begins in Hanoi, Vietnam today (August 27th).

President Maithripala Sirisena has taken steps to appoint a Special Commission to make recommendations to provide solutions to minimise salary anomalies in the Public Service while focusing on the existing salary circulars in relation to the salaries and allowances of the Public Service.

A meeting between the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media and all District Secretaries was held today to discuss the "Gamperaliya" - accelerated rural development program of the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media.

Development Lotteries Board yesterday issued a special lottery in the name of Sanwardana Wasana to mark the different efforts made at present all over the country.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 21.08.201

IMG 0002 2 1

H00000000157 EN page 001 1

The first edition of the rapid rural infrastructure investment scheme, Enterprise Sri Lanka, Gamperaliya exhibition will be held in Moneragala District from August 29 -31 this year, said Minister of Finance and Mass Media, Mangala Samaraweera.

The State Photography Awards Ceremony 2018 was held at Nelum Pokuna Theatre under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (19).

At present a mega development project is being implemented to fulfill the water needs of the people in the Wayamba Province, ending a long term sorrowful story water shortage, under the guidance of President Maithripala Sirisena.


Cabinet yesterday granted approval to appoint a Special Commission to increase public sector salaries and remove salary anomalies on a recommendation made by Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera.

Presentation of new housing ownership deeds to the 35 selected candidates for the final round of Ranaviru Real Star was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at Madurawala Prabudhdhagma Horana Ranaviru village yesterday(13).

A special committee which comprised of independent experts has been appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena, to conduct a special study on the Sri Lanka Singapore Free Trade Agreement and to submit a report to him.

Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera in a special statement yesterday extended his regrets to the railway commuters, on behalf of the Government, who were highly inconvenienced due to the strike launched by railway workers without any prior notice.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 07.07.2018

Former Swiss President, Member of the Federal Council and Chief of Law and Police Department Mrs. Simonetta Sommaruga and the delegation met with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at Temple Trees.

 

The new faculty building of the Applied Sciences Faculty of the Eastern University was vested with the students and the construction of the new auditorium of the University was commenced under the patronage of the President Maithripala Sirisena (6).

The first draft of the Vision 2030 document presented to the President.


Visiting Vice Minister of Chinese Communist Party International Department Guo Yezhou yesterday told Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe that the Chinese Communist Party and the Peoples Republic of China are prepared to extend any assistance to Sri Lanka to make its dream of becoming an economic and financial hub of the Indian Ocean a reality.


President Maithripala Sirisena says the government is spending a huge amount of money for the infrastructure development of the rural areas, because it is a pleasure for him to see all the citizens of the country live happily.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 31.07.2018

President Maithripala Sirisena vested the newly built playground in the Royal College, Polonnaruwa with the students, today (02).


Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will introduce a tourist-friendly three-wheeler service for the first time in Sri Lanka yesterday (30th) at the Galle Face Green in Colombo.

President chairs the meeting of Presidential Task Force on North & East development

President Maithripala Sirisena paid a visit. Madu Church and obtained blessings yesterday (July 29).

The countrys foremost economic event Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2018 will be held for the 18th time on the theme, On the Fast Track to a Turnaround.This event organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, is to take place on September 13 14, 2018 at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.

Many development benefits to the Sabaragamuwa Province under Grama Shakthi Peoples Movement

Sri Lanka signed a USD 100 million credit agreement with the World Bank to support Sri Lankas efforts to strengthen and modernize the general education system in the country.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 24.07.2018

The four-star Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC), General Robert B. Brown, who is on a four-day long goodwill visit to Sri Lanka met with President Maithripala Sirisena on July 24.

President Maithripala Sirisena says his expectation is to place Sri Lanka in the number one position among the countries in the world fighting against the corruption, during his tenure.

The Sabaragamuwa Province Action Committee of the Grama Shakthi Peoples Movement will meet under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Ratnapura Provincial Council Auditorium, today (25).

Water purification system for the usage of the people

With more than 1 million three-wheeler drivers in Sri Lanka, the three-wheeler industry is indeed a major sector of the country.

US Armys Pacific Region head, General Robert Brown and his delegation currently in Sri Lanka met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at Temple Trees yesterday.

The water filling ceremony of the Kalu Ganga under Presidents patronage
Construction of the second stage of the Upper Elahera Canal, Kaluganga-Moragahakanda Transfer Canal/Tunnel, which is the longest tunnel in the South Asia, commenced
The project will generate25MW hydro-power to the national grid
Moragahakanda Reservoir named in honour of Engineer A. N. S. Kulasinghe

The second phase of the 1990 Suwa Seriya, Pre-Hospital Care Ambulance Service, was launched in Jaffna yesterday expanding it throughout the island.

The leaders of Georgia and Sri Lanka pay attention on strengthening bilateral ties.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that unlimited power creates corruption and during the last three years, Sri Lanka has taken several important steps to break the link between power and corruption in the country.

The inaugural loan counter, under the Enterprise Sri Lanka Programme, was launched at Peoples bank headquarters branch at Colombo 02,

The Kaluganga Development Project is currently being implemented by the Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment with the financial assistance of Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) and OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived in Gerogia to attend the 5th Session of Open Government Partnership yesterday morning.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that forests provide many socio-economic benefits, including food, energy and shelter, which are basic human needs and to sustain the products and services that help meet these and other needs, forests must be sustainably managed.

In response to a question on the restoration of Capital Punishment for drug dealers at a press conference last week, while reiterating my opposition to Capital Punishment, I said that certain individuals connected to the drug trade try to cover their sins by being benefactors of society, holding high positions in various organizations or as philanthropists in religious organizations.

President Maithripala Sirisena left for Rome today (14) to attend the 24th session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO) and the 6th World Forest Week organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

04 agreements signed between the two countries

Non Communicable Disease (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases and cerebrovascular diseases have increased in the recent past in Sri Lanka due to apparent epidemiological, socio- economic and demographic transitions.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that he would sign required orders to execute capital punishment for convicted drug traffickers who carry out large scale drug smuggling operations while in detention.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 10.07.2018

The National Economic Council (NEC) paid attention to situations where the retail price is significantly higher than the landed cost of some imported goods.

President Maithripala Sirisena says whatever allegations were leveled by the political opponents, this era can be considered as a fortunate time for the agricultural economy of the country.

Financial inclusion for SMEs is important to realize the development objectives of the Government such as promoting exports, generating jobs and increasing per capita income.

 

Hon. State Minister of Finance,
Hon. Deputy Minister,
Secretary/Ministry of Finance and Media,
His Excellency Bryce Hutchesson, High Commissioner of Australia,
Ladies and gentlemen,

President Maithripala Sirisena says an appropriate programme should be implemented to manage conducting private tuition classes on Poya days and Sundays, with the aim of building better future generation by providing them with Dhamma education.

I was alarmed by recent attacks on two Sri Lankan journalists who contributed to the New York Times report on massive financial misappropriation linked to the former regime in Sri Lanka.

The OFID has been a major Development partner of Sri Lanka providing financial assistance to implement a number of strategically important development projects during the past two decades. Under current portfolio, OFID provides financing for road and irrigation sectors.

The Government of the Republic of Korea has agreed to provide two concessional loans for USD 14 million (Approximately Rs.2,240 million) to Supply of 190 Nos. of Garbage Collecting Compactors to the Local Authorities of Sri Lanka in line with the Government's target of strengthening local authorities with the necessary equipment and technology to introduce modern practices in the management of solid waste.

The funeral of Resa and Silumina Editor-in-Chief Chamara Lakshan Kumara (39), will be held at the Indigodatenna cemetery in Mathugama at 5.00 p.m. today. Cortege leaves residence No:05 Athulathmudaligama, Mathugama at 4.00 pm.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting 

A special discussion was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence in Colombo yesterday (02), regarding steps that should be taken to protect local fruit farmers.

Mid Year Fiscal Position Report - 2018 - Ministry of Finance

Download

The government will spend between Rs. 160 billion to Rs. 200 billion within the current and next year to bring about a development revolution in the country, Prime Minister Ranil Wickemesinghe said at Kelebokka, Panwila yesterday.

Young Journalist Chamara Lakshan Kumara, the current editor in chief of the Silumina and Resa newspapers. He passed away Saturday night following a brief illness. He was 39 years old.

President Maithripala sirisena emphasized the importance of implementing a methodology in producing quality films and Tele dramas which increase the taste for arts and aesthetics.

Let me first of all thank the Government of India and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for hosting this years Annual Governors Meeting in Mumbai.

Veteran actor and film director Roy de Silva has passed away last night (30), at the age of 80. He has passed away while being admitted at the Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital yesterday, according to a hospital spokesman.

Minister of Finance and Media Hon. Mangala Samaraweera has appointed the following personnel to the Hon. Ministers staff at the Media Ministry.

Following an exchange of notes signed between Japanese Ambassador Kenichi Suganuma and Finance and Mass Media Ministry Secretary Dr. R. H. S.

President Maithripala Sirisena opened the Aloka pooja of the second day of Mihintala Aloka Pooja of Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (Lake House) held for the 56th of time marking the Poson full moon poya day, today (27).

prIMG 0002 1 2

The foremost objective of the Tourism Police is to transform the Galle region as the tourist hub of South Asia, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Galle.

Developing "Dibulagala Aranya Senasanaya which was established as an Aranya Senasanaya since the days of ancient kings was under President Maithripala Sirisenas broad consideration to develop all the vihara, Piriven, and other religious places under Pibidemu Polonnaruwa district program.

The 4th International Day of Yoga organized by the High Commission of India was celebrated under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Independence Square in Colombo, today (23).

- Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera
Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera says that Sri Lankan security members who successfully concluded the peace conference involved to the development on Gamperaliya program.

The State Music Awards Ceremony 2018, was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre yesterday (21).

Regional Symposium on Sustainable Development Goal 14

Sri Lanka is poised to be a major source of investment for companies looking to use Sri Lanka as a base to tap into the fast growing Indian Ocean region says Minister of Finance and Media Mangala Samaraweera.

Applications are being called for the Madya Aruna 2018, special loan scheme for journalists implemented by the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media with the view of uplifting professionalism of Sri Lankan journalists.

The Director General of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) said that they are ready to provide required technical assistance in utilizing satellite technology to reduce the impact of climate change on the countrys rice production.

The book Hela Wari Purawatha published by the Mahaweli Centre including the facts ranging from the starting of Sri Lankan Irrigation to Moragahakanda Development Project was presented to President Maithripala Sirisena at Presidents office yesterday (19).

Cabinet has decided to remove the 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on doctors consultation fee, channeling fee and professional charges with effect from July 1, Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said.

President Maithripala Sirisena says that the Government is paying close attention to save children from various menaces in society, and all the parties should support in this regard to the Government unconditionally.

British Minister of State for Trade and Investment Greg Hands yesterday said Britain will explore investment avenues in the construction of rural bridges and hospitals in Sri Lanka. The British Minister of State expressed these views when he met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in London.

The former Japanese Prime Minister Yukiyo Hatoyama, who came to the Island, met President Maithripla Sirisena at the Presidents office 14th June.

President's Ramalan message

Hon. Prime Ministers Ramazan Message

President Maithripala Sirisena has given instructions to the National Economic Council (NEC) to take the essential decisions to develop the national economy of the country while protecting the local industrialists as it is the policy of the government.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting held on 12.06.2018

A special commemorative celebration to felicitate the 50th anniversary of the writing of books by Sri Lankas renowned author, Dr.W.A. Abeysinghe was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, yesterday (12).

President Maithripala Sirisena vested the reconstructed and developed eastern bank conservation of the East Beira Lake and the Linear Park along Beira Lake with the public, yesterday (June 12).

The value of non-financial assets reported at Rs. 814 billion
Annual report has been prepared and released in Ministry of Finance and Mass Media having included the expenditures related to the budgetary provision to central government agencies and provincial councils and local authorities by the Annual Appropriation Act of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

The inauguration ceremony of the 15th Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Telecommunication/ICT Development Forum was commenced under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena, yesterday (11).

A special Games were held at the President's House presided over by Hon. Maithripala Sirisena, President of the Association recently.

President Maithripala Sirisena called on the people of the historic town of Kegalle to fulfill their respective duties towards the environmental conservation with a continuous programme, not limiting to that responsibility to a one day.

The Agreement on Establishing the Information and Research Centre on Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown origin (CKDu), at the University of Kelaniya was signed before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (05).

President Maithripala Sirisena chaired the meeting of the Buddhist Advisory council met at the Presidents office, yesterday (5).

The Government is taking measures to cancel the loans taken by the poor from the micro finance companies in the drought affected areas, Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera said yesterday (May31st).

In the Budget speech last November, I presented Enterprise Sri Lanka scheme based on the governments 2025 vision document, to create a new entrepreneur class, recalling our history as a trading and a commercial hub in the ancient times.

The unveiling of the official logo and website of Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration (Ombudsman) was held under presidents patronage at Presidents office today (28).

The Finance and Mass Media Ministry has taken steps to increase the Asi Disi Media Scholarship payment to Rs.200,000 from this year.

The Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mr. Mangala Samaraweera said that even after 70 years of Independence, country could not achieve peace as the people were still quarrelling on the basis of race, religion and party politics.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media has appointed Mr. Ranel Tissa Wijesinha as the Chairman of Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) with effect from yesterday (24th May).

The Government of Sri Lanka has identified the importance of having competent human capital to compete with rapidly changing global economy as the country is geared to take off and advance as a fast growing middle-income country.

The Erste Bank of Austria has provided EUR 9.5 million (approximately SLR 1,810 million) interest free Credit Facilities to enhance the access to quality and modern healthcare facilities in hospitals in the country.

Supreme Court Judge, Mrs. Eva Wanasundara was sworn in as Acting Chief Justice before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (May 23).

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera has instructed the Treasury officials to release sufficient funds to provide relief to flood victims immediately.

President Maithripala Srisena urged all stakeholders to support the Gramashakthi Peoples Movement without any political difference to achieve the goal of eradicating poverty.

Former President and Kurunegala District MP, Mahindra Rajapaksa who is responsible for ruining this country by allowing his family relatives and cronies to plunder the countrys economy and, his siblings, former defense secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa who unleashed terror through the white van culture that isolated the country internationally now seem to be engaged in an untiring effort to throw the country again into Vipath Maga, the destructive path.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Sri Lanka on Friday signed a $210 million second tranche loan agreement for the Mahaweli Water Security Investment Program to assist Sri Lanka complete its ongoing drive to deliver surplus water from the Mahaweli river basin to its dry zone, where scarce supplies undermine agricultural output and household incomes.

President Maithripala Sirisena says that our security forces have not been accused of war crimes in the resolution of the United Nations Human Rights Council as certain media and extremist parties falsely depict.

President Maithripala Sirisena offered Vishishta Seva Vibushana (Distinguished Service Decoration) medals to the senior officers in the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air-Force, in appreciation of their great and excellent service, today (19) at the Presidential Secretariat.

The new system control centre of Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) in Srijayewardenepura which can control all the data of the power generation and electricity sub stations was declared open by President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (16).

The new Heads of State Electronic media who were appointed by the Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera received their letters of appointment from the Minister at the Media Ministry today (16).

1. Providing Fire Fighting equipments/ Vehicles for Colombo Municipal Council (Document No. 08 )
Proponent :- Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs
Description :- It has been proposed to supply firefighting equipments and vehicles in order to enhance the capacity of Fire Brigade Unit in Municipal Council Colombo. The proposal of Hon. Ranil Wickramasinghe to discuss with Unicredit Bank in Austriya and enter in to an agreement to obtain a interest free loan of Euro 10.5 million in this purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Since the number of financial crimes have been increased with the expansion of technology, better coordination among Government institutions is essential to face this situation successfully.

President Maithripala Sirisena advised the National Economic Council (NEC) to hold a special one-day workshop on the governments comprehensive economic development plan for Ministers, Members of Parliament representing the government, Ministry secretaries and Central Bank and Treasury officials.

The official ceremony was held to offer a monthly allowance to the veteran artistes who contributed their time and effort to nourish the local cinema under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the National Film Corporation auditorium yesterday (15).

Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera has appointed the following as the Heads of the State Media Institutions with effect from yesterday.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe handed over the appointment letters to the Management Assistants who are newly recruited to Public Management Assistants Service at Temple Trees.

President Maithripala Sirisena who is on a two day state visit to Iran met with Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Teheran , yesterday (13).

Discussed on enhancing bilateral economic & trade ties between the two countries
Five MoUs signed between the two countries

President Maithripala Sirisena who is on a two day state visit to Iran met with President Hassan Rouhani of Iran today (13).

Minister of Finance and Mass Media says that the time has come to revive the entrepreneurial potential of Sri Lankans from the past and the government is in the process of providing all facilities to people to take the initiative.

President Maithripala Sirisena left for Iran today (12) for a two day state visit at the invitation of the Iran President Hassan Rouhani.

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said the prices of fuel would be reviewed every two months and the prices would be changed accordingly.

The new Inland Revenue Act is aimed at increasing direct taxes to 40 percent and reducing indirect taxes to 60 percent. Earlier, the ordinary masses contributed to 82 percent of indirect taxes levied on goods bought for daily consumption. This was an outdated system which caused a heavy burden on the common masses, Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera said.

President Maithripala Sirisena vested 437 houses constructed under the Niwasak Wenuwata Jivitayak programme implemented by the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development and the Urban Development Authority, with the people at the Siyapath Sevana new housing scheme in Dematagoda today (10).

Sri Lankas economy demonstrated time tested resilience last year despite the brunt of extreme weather conditions and other adverse external factors, Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera said.

The Minister of Finance and Media Mr. Mangala Samaraweera who is attending the 51st Annual meeting of the ADB in Manila had discussions with Mr. In-Chang Song an Executive Director of the Board of ADB at the ADB HQ yesterday, 4 May 2018.

New set of 8 State Ministers and 10 Deputy Ministers were sworn in before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, today (02).

The Government yesterday declared today, as a Day of National Mourning as a mark of respect to cinematic genius Dr. Lester James Peries, an official of the Presidential Media Division told yesterday.

The first Ranaviru flag of War Heroes Commemoration Month was pinned on President Maithripala Sirisena today (May 02). This month has been declared as the National War Heroes Commemoration Month 2018.

The new Cabinet Ministers were sworn in before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat today (01).

The Annual Report of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the Year 2017 In terms of Section 35 of the Monetary Law Act No. 58 of 1949, the sixty eighth Annual Report of the Monetary Board of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka was presented to Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, the Minister of Finance and Mass Media, by Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy, the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

The Development and Planning Division of the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media has planned to publish a monthly newspaper in collaboration with the Lake House, aimed at raising public awareness on the Right to Information Act. 

President Maithripala Sirisena expressed appreciation and offered awards and gifts to the Sri Lankan men and women who performed well in commonwealth games.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that the Presidential Commission appointed to look into the alleged frauds and malpractices in SriLankan Airlines will commence recording of evidence within the next two weeks.

Mr. David Hartman, Director General for South Asia at Global Affairs Canada, together with David McKinnon, High Commissioner of Canada to Sri Lanka, met with the Minister of Finance and Media, Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, at the Treasury, yesterday (25th).

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 24.04.2018

President Maithripala Sirisena has given instructions to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka to take the necessary steps expeditiously to implement the long-term power generation plan for the time period of 2018-2037.

The Department of Excise has decided to conduct a special monitoring program to prevent excise offenses and irregularities in excise-licensed establishments, during the Vesak season.The program will take place from 27th April to 3rd May, reported the Excise Department.

A group of Investors from several companies of Pakistan has arrived to Island to find out about the new investment opportunities where they met with President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents official residence, yesterday (23).

Commonwealth Centre for Digital Health was launched in London 20th April.

Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Ali Larijani, who arrived in the island yesterday (19th April) on an official visit, called on Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Temple Trees primers Office.

Sri Lanka has been named as the country to give leadership for the conservation of mangroves in Commonwealth countries.

The inaugural ceremony of 25th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2018 was held gloriously under the patronage of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain in Buckingham Palace.

Sustainability is a term in the development terminology.

Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Finance & Mass Media at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the United Kingdom

Our Governments Blue-Green economic plan will ensure the full utilization of the ocean and other natural resources of Sri Lanka in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner, said President Maithripala Sirisena delivering the keynote address at the Commonwealth Business Forum, today (18 April).

New Year Message of the President

Hon. Prime Ministers Sinhala and Hindu New Year Message 2018

President Maithripala Sirisena advised the Secretary for Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training to prepare a proposal for finding solutions to fill the shortage of workmen in construction field.

President Maithripala Sirisena says the government will take every possible action to provide facilities for the brave war heroes who fulfill their duties towards Motherland.

The National Aluth Sahal Mangalya which is known to be most venerated agricultural ritual of Sinhalese was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the historical Jaya SrI Maha Bodhiya in Anuradhapura yesterdat (08).

President Maithripala Sirisena said he would continue to work to strengthen the government with the support of all the parliamentarian extending cooperation to the government for the benefit of the country and the people.

The Sri Lankan group of eight students who are leaving for Vietnam to participate in the 19th Asia Physics Olympiad Competition received rupees one million in cash and gifts from President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence, yesterday (04).

Avurudu Neketh Seettuwa (the document containing the auspicious times for the traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year) was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena today (April 04) at the Presidents Official Residence in Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena says that artistes and others in the fields of cinema, teledrama and music fields have a great responsibility in leading the citizens towards a proper path on behalf of the future of the country.

President Maithripala Sirisena emphasized that all should fulfill their respective duties collectively to build a better society and country for the young generation of the country.

President Maithripala Sirisena conveys his deepest sympathies on the tragedy that occurred due to a fire in a Russian leisure Centre, Winta Cherry Center in Kemerovo, Russia, causing loss of lives and injuries to many, including children.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that the Cabinet has decided to postpone the rallies and meetings from May 1 to May 7 taking into the consideration of the Vesak week, which coincides with the International Workers Day.

President Maithripala Sirisena says that the government officers should pay more attention on the development of the country, maintaining economical stability, and accomplishing the duties of different fields of subjects individually with dedication rather than focusing on the current political developments.

Pledged to move forward as brotherhood nations in achieving economic prosperity

Three MoUs signed between the two countries

Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain warmly welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena on arrival at the Nur Khan Air Base in Islamabad yesterday evening (March 22).

 Orders immediate halt to constructions and land filling leading to environment pollution

President Maithripala Sirisena conveyed his best wishes to Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, who was re elected as the President of Nepal.


01. Implementation of Strategic Plan of the United Nations World Food Project with respect to Sri Lanka (Document 08)

President Maithripala Sirisena will leave for Islamabad tomorrow (March 22) to attend the Pakistan Republic Day celebrations on March 23 as chief guest on an invitation extended by Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain.

President Maithripala Sirisena congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin who achieved a resounding victory in the election held recently.

President Maithripala Sirisena says some are working according to their personal agendas to gain political power and they are not interested in strengthening the peace and reconciliation or in solving the issues of the country.

The state of emergency declared on March 06, 2018 according to the instructions given by President Maithripala Sirisena has been lifted. President Sirisena after returning to the country following a successful state visit to Japan signed the Gazette notification to lift the state of emergency with immediate effect from midnight 17th March.
Accordingly, the special Gazette notification 2062/50 of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in this regard was issued.

President Maithripala Sirisena paid floral tribute to the victims of atomic bomb attack in Hiroshima during the 2nd World War.

President Maithripala Sirisena, who is on a state visit to Japan, made an observation tour of modern waste management centre in Shinagawa in Tokyo, yesterday (14).

The Japan-Sri Lanka friendship that was strengthened at the San Francisco Conference, has moved forward with a new face under the leadership of President Maithripala Sirisena and that friendship is a strong, friendly and reliable bond, said the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The temporary ban on Facebook following the incidents occurred in Kandy and Ampara will be lifted within the next few days, President Maithripala Sirisena said. He added that even though there is room for any medium for the benefit of the society, there is a need for a certain approach to control the destruction cause to the society by some vicious elements using these mediums.

Japanese Prime minister says that he would work towards provide grants, not loans
A new agreement is signed between two countries on conducting Japan-Sri Lanka health services

President Maithripala Sirisena who is on a State visit to Japan met with the Chief Incumbents of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Temples in Japan in Tokyo,yesterday (13).

President Maithripala Sirisena, who is on a state visit to Japan to further strengthening the long standing bilateral relations between the two countries, met with Emperor Akihito today (13).

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived in Japan today (12) with the aim to further strengthening the long standing bilateral relations between Japan and Sri Lanka.

Having recognized the importance and urgency of implementation of Kirama Katuwana Water Supply Project and project for Augmentation of Water Pipelines along with the Orugodawatta Ambatale Road Development Project, the Government has now been able to finalize the funding arrangements with foreign and local banks.

President Maithripala Sirisena extended an invitation to women in the country to come forward as a powerful force to stop the deteriorating human values and build a nation that values peace and where all the people could live in brotherhood and harmony.

Government Information Department announced that the curfew imposed in the Kandy administrative district will be lifted at 10.00AM on March 8 and re-imposed at 6.00PM.

President Maithripala Sirisena held a special meeting at Presidents House in Kandy to discuss the current situation in the Kandy district.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 06-03-2018

Special Envoy of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention Prince Mired Raad Zeid Al-Hussein said he hoped Sri Lanka would become a strong advocate for the treaty.

The Undeterred Journey for the Missing

President Maithripala Sirisena says that all the interviews postponed due to election will commence and steps will be taken to provide employment for the unemployed graduates within next six months.

At the opening meeting of the G-24 in Colombo, Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera warned that with advanced economies rebounding, developing countries must prepare for tightening global market conditions.

01. Transfer power of filing cases based on facts revealed by commissions of inquiry to Bribery Commission (Document No.05)

National Construction Awards Ceremony 2017 organized in order to celebrate the progress of the construction field was held under the patronage of the president Maithripala Sirisena at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) yesterday (26).

Rs.29 million worth equipment to uplift livelihoods of 636 beneficiaries in Welikanda & Dimbulagala

The two-day Technical Group Meeting of the G- 24 countries will be inaugurated by Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera at 9.00 am on February 27, at the BMICH.

All the current students at the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM)will be enrolled to the Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) medical faculty.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 2018 .02. 20

The new economic programme of the government will be finalized by the National economic Council (NEC) by next week. This was decided at a meeting, chaired by President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential secretariat yesterday (February 20).

Sri Lanka has received the South Asia Procurement Innovation Award 2017- 2018 at the Fifth South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference held from February 5 8, 2018 in New Delhi.

The new Tamil channel, Reconciliation channel of Sri Lanka Rupavahini Cooperation (SLRC) was launched by President Maithripala Sirisena at the SLRC premises yesterday (20).

The Public Service Commission (PSC), which marks its 70th anniversary, will move into its own building complex at 1200/9 Rajamalwatte Road, Battaramulla on February 21.

The Government of Sri Lanka had obtained ADB Financial assistance of USD 100 million in 2016 to finance the Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) Line of Credit Project.

President advises the Secretaries to continue the development projects implemented for the benefit of the people.

Youth representatives of Nippon Maru ship met President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (15) at the presidential secretariat.

The Annual Report for the year 2016 of the Finance Commission of Sri Lanka was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (15).

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 14.02.2018

President Maithripala Sirisena has declared his dedication towards building a country free of fraud and corruption. In order to implement this concept, it has been decided to seek the thoughts, ideas and the support of the people to build a widespread national movement against corruption, bribe, fraud, irregularities and waste.

HEEng 1 1 1

The funeral of the Chancellor of the Sri Jayawardhanapura University, Most Ven Prof. Bellanwila Wimalarathana Anunayaka Thera will be held at 3 pm at the University grounds today.

The final report of the Presidential Committee appointed to inquire into the damage caused to life and property due to the collapse of the Meethotamulla garbage dump, was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena, at the Presidents Official Recidance, yesterday (06).

President Maithripala Sirisena says the AB-21 road Kankasanthurai to Point Pedro, which had been closed since June 20, 1990, will be opened for the public.

President Maithripala Sirisena paid his last respects to late deputy incumbent of Bellanwila Rajamaha Vihara and the former Chancellor of the Sri Jayawardhanapura University Most Ven. Prof. Bellanwila Wimalarathana Thero.

The foreign delegations headed by the Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex Sophie, who arrived in the country to attend the 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations, met with President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (04).

President Maithripala Sirisena said the fight against corruption is the self defence of the nation and it is an imperative need of the era. He said that corruption has become one of the main impediments to the progress towards prosperity, which is the aspiration of all citizens.

As Sri Lanka proudly celebrates 70 years of Independence, many world leaders have sent their greetings to President Maithripala Sirisena and the government and people of Sri Lanka.


Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, and the Countess of Wessex, arrived in Sri Lanka today.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has issued a circulation standard commemorative currency note in the denomination of Rs.1,000 to mark the 70th independence celebration in the country which falls on February 4. This is the 4th commemorative note that was issued by the Central Bank.

A meeting was held between President Maithripala Sirisena and a delegation of Board of Directors of Asian Development Bank (ADB) at the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday.

Australia and Sri Lanka signed a Subsidiary Arrangement for grant assistance to work together on strengthening governance in Sri Lanka, through a four-year program valued at up to AUD 31 million (LKR3,850 million).


Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera said that literary works in Sinhala, Tamil and English fostered greater understanding and reconciliation between Sri Lankans.

A group of representatives of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) Economic Mission, who visited Sri Lanka to explore new business and investment opportunities, met with President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence, in Colombo yesterday (25).

Three bilateral MoUs signed

The 2018 FIFA World Cup Trophy arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday, and the trophy was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents House in Colombo, today (24).


Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe welcomed visiting Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at Temple Trees yesterday evening.

Free Trade Agreement signed


Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong arrived in Sri Lanka today (22nd Jan.) for a three-day official visit at the invitation of President Maithripala Sirisena.

Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong will arrive in Sri Lanka today on a three day official visit at the invitation of President Maithripala Sirisena.

An intellectual gathering to discuss setting up of an action plan for elimination of bribery and corruption, chaired by Secretary to the President, Austin Fernando was held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (January 18).

The Government of India has come forward to Rehabilitate and upgrade the Kankesanthurai (KKS) Harbour as a commercial port at a cost of USD 45.27 million. This will help to further strengthen the countrys effort to become a regional maritime hub in the near future.

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera had a meeting with Finance Minister of India, Arjun Jaitley and reviewed ongoing economic projects between Sri Lanka and India. The duo in India.

The delegates of the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation (ROSATOM) called on President Maithripala Sirisena at the Official Residence of the President, today (17).

DECISION TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 16.01.2018

Street artists with outstanding talents will receive Presidential Awards from this year. Announcing this, President Maithripala Sirisena stated that the government will provide welfare and other possible assistance to the street artists.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that he had instructed the Ministry of Finance to cancel the circular issued revoking the prohibition of selling liquor to females and the extensions of liquor shop timings from 8.00 a.m. to 10 p.m. The circular will be cancelled today.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday met Sri Lankan Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera and discussed issues of development cooperation between the two countries, MEA Spokesperson Raveesh tweeted.

Two different views have been expressed in legal, civil and political circles about the duration of the term of Presidency after the enactment of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mr. Mangala Samaraweera said that one of the main proposals made in the budget to create entrepreneurs would be launched in March.

A ceremony was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Mahabulankulama Thibbotuwawa Sri Vijaya Viharaya, yesterday (10) to open Water Treatment Plants installed at several places in Anuradhapura district, with the aim of minimizing the spread of chronic kidney disease in the district.

Ministry Finance and Mass media has revoked the prohibition on selling liquor to women and employing women in places where liquor is manufactured or sold.

1. Public Debt Management (Document No 10)

1. Public Debt Management (Document No 10)

President Maithripala Sirisena advised the officers to expedite the future activities of the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project while giving priority to the maintenance of day to day activities of the public without any hindrance.

The students of Mathara Sujatha Vidyalaya and Mathara Mahinda Rajapaksha Vidyalaya who ranked best in the island at the General certificate of Education (Advanced Level) 2017, met the President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (Jan. 09) at the Presidents Official Residence.

Finance and Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera yesterday said the present government is committed to providing the Criminal Investigation Department and the Attorney Generals Department with whatever resources and support they require to indict and convict those who committed, aided and instigated the murder of Sunday Leader Editor Lasantha Wickrematunge.

Moragahakanda Reservoir named in honour of Civil Engineer A. N. S. Kulasinghe

President Maithripala Sirisena will vest the Rajagiriya flyover with the public today (08), providing long term solutions for the heavy traffic congestion in the Rajagiriya area.

Sri Lanka, primarily an agricultural nation, marks a significant milestone today (January 8) when the waters of the last but biggest reservoir of the multipurpose Mahaweli Project at Moragahakanda opens its sluice gates to irrigate parched dry lands in faraway Vanni in the Northern Province on one side and Rajarata, Wayamba, Central and Eastern Provinces on the other.

Due to efficient management of the State revenue and expenditure, the government has been able to achieve Rs 21.9 billion surplus in the primary balance of the fiscal accounts during the first ten months of the year 2017 which is for the first time in the last 63 years.

The Foreign Minister of Japan Tharo Kono said that the Government of Japan is ready to provide its fullest support for the development and reconciliation process of Sri Lanka.

The UK All- Party Parliamentary Group on Sri Lanka met with President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (04).

z p01 Daily News 1

The Daily News celebrated its centenary at the Lake House boardroom with Media and Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera joined by Lake House Chairman Krishantha Cooray and Daily News Editor Lalith Allahakkoon in cutting the centenary cake.

z p01 Daily News 2

The Daily News special centenary supplement Hundred years countless stories, was presented to Media and Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera by Daily News Deputy Editor Samangie Wettimuny who compiled the supplement.

{jathumbnail off}

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (2nd Jan.) signed the gazette notification containing 32 guidelines for media coverage of the forthcoming local government elections.

DECISION TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 02.01.2018

The final report compiled by the Presidential Commission of Inquiry to investigate and inquire into Serious Acts of Fraud, Corruption and Abuse of Power, State Resources and Privileges (PRECIFAC) was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (02).

President Maithripala Sirisena has been given a special award in recognition of his relentless campaign to eradicate drug menace, which is a major international problem.

new year pm en 1

Marking the over 45 years old development cooperation between the Sri Lanka and France, The Government of French Republic agreed to extend its assistance to Sri Lanka, by providing a Euro 13.9 million (approximately SLR 2,514 million) concessional loan for the implementation of Development of Six Mini Dairies Project.

President Maithripala Sirisena has given instructions to appoint a special committee to look into the professional issues of the regional news correspondents of media institutions and to submit recommendations regarding the solutions for those issues.

Russia has decided to lift the temporary import restrictions placed on Sri Lankan Tea with effect from 30th December, Plantation Industries Minister Navin Dissanayake told yesterday.

1. Amendment of Firing Ranges and Military Training Act No 24 of 1951 (Document No 06)

The Third Ministerial Meeting of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) on Poverty Alleviation, will be held today (19th Dec.) and tomorrow in Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena and the visiting Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak agreed to expand existing close cooperation in many fields including trade and investment, agriculture, science and technology including nano and bio technology, e-commerce, e-courts, international forums, military training, diplomatic training and intelligence exchange to curb drugs and human smuggling.

The Government of Sri Lanka entered into 3 Loan Agreements worth of USD 270 million with the Asian Development Bank for the implementation of two projects; Integrated Road Investment Program and Jaffna Kilinochchi Water Supply Project.

The official meeting between President Maithripala Sirisena and the visiting Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak was held at the Presidential Secretariat, today (18).

The Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera has denied the media reports that Mr. Ruwan Ferdinandez has been removed from the Post of Secretary (Media).

Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe had given directions to the Vice-Chancellors of all Universities to upgrade the quality of higher education instead of prioritizing the construction of university buildings.

President Maithripala Sirisena instructed the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) to ban the use of polythene during the upcoming election campaigns.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 12.12.2017

Mr. Siddi Mohamed Farook was appointed as the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation with immediate effect by the Minister of Finance and Media Hon. Mangala Samaraweera.

President Maithripala Sirisena requests all the religious leaders to take the lead in delivering the message of reconciliation and religious co-existence among the people, which is the guidance of all religious philosophies.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 05.12.2017

Sri Lanka remains firm in its commitment to work with the international community, including UNESCO, to work towards ending impunity for crimes against journalists, and to uphold the rights of journalists around the world who place themselves at risk every day, to give voice to the voiceless, Minister of Finance and Mass Media, Mangala Samaraweera said.

President Maithripala Sirisena released water for research purpose for the electricity generation of Moragahakanda today (Dec. 02) at auspicious time.
The Moragahakanda reservoir reached the required sea level 178m for the electricity generation due to the high rainfall.

President Maithripala Sirisena directs all relevant officers of the government to take every required action to provide relief to the victims of the current adverse weather condition.

It gives me great pleasure to address you at the AGM of the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association.

The Austrian Government will step up its assistance to Sri Lanka, by providing (Euro 19.35 million) Rs 3546 million interest free soft loans to upgrade the Katunayaka Engineering Technology Institute and to obtain 100 Ambulances for Government hospitals in the country.

President Maithripala Sirisena received a warm welcome when he arrived at the Incheon International Airport in Seoul this morning (November 28) for a 3-day state visit to Republic of Korea on an invitation extended by the Korean President Moon Jae-in.

The Ministry of Finance and Mass Media yesterday (Nov 22) entered into two Loan Agreements with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to borrow USD 150 million for the development of 3400 km of rural roadways and USD 200 million for the implementation of 100 MW Wind Power Generation Project in Mannar Island
The Second Integrated Road Investment Program
According to the recent economic policy statement of the government, development of the rural economies is one of the priorities to achieve the sustainable development of the country and therefore, the Government is investing more on rural infrastructure development to uplift the livelihood of people living in rural areas.
3,400 km of rural access roads inclusive of 340 km of National highways will be upgraded under the agreement signed, today for the Second Integrated Road Investment Program. The significance of this road project is that these roads will be developed to suit all weather conditions and will improve 340 km of National roads with the aim of building up better connectivity between rural communities and socio economic centers.
Improving the capacity of road agencies with respect to safeguards, road safety, maintenance, research capacity and road design and construction is another component of the program. The program will be implemented in Northern, Eastern, Uva and Western provinces.
Under the first phase of this program 3,108 km of rural access roads and 248 km of national roads in Southern, Central, Sabaragamuwa, North Western, North Central Provinces and Kalutara District in Western Province are being improved and maintained.The total investment cost of the first tranche of this project is USD 172.1 million. ADB provides USD 150 million and the Government Contribution will be USD 22.1 million.
Wind Power Generation Project

Current energy policy focuses on diversification of power generation through Non-conventional Renewable Energy Resources to improve the countrys energy security as well as the environment
Implementation of Wind Power Generation Project will support the Governments objective of achieving 20% of the total power generation through non-conventional power generation by 2020 by enhancing clean power generation.

100 MW wind farm will be constructed in Mannar Island of the Northern Province under the proposed project. In addition, wind park infrastructure will be developed including Wind Parks internal medium voltage infrastructure, internal cabling and access roads; establishment of a renewable energy dispatch control center for the forecasting, controlling and managing intermittent 100 MW wind power generation.
The total investment cost of this project is USD 256.7 million of which USD 200 million will be provided by ADB as a direct loan to CEB under a Treasury Guarantee. The balance USD 56.7 million will be financed by CEB.

Dr. R H S Samaratunga, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka and Ms. Sri Widowati, Country Director of ADB Sri Lanka Resident Mission on behalf of ADB, signed two Loan Agreements on 22nd November 2017 at the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media,
Further, the Chairman and the Vice Chairman of the Ceylon Electricity Board and Ms. Sri Widowati, Country Director of ADB Sri Lanka Resident Mission signed a loan agreement to obtain USD 200 mn from ADB for the implementation of Wind Power Generation Project.
Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Finance and Mass Media and Mr. Wencai Zhang Vice President of ADB also participated on this occasion.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 21.11.2017

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is due to leave on an official visit to India today (21).

The 3rd Biennial Meeting of South Asian Society for Sexual Medicine (SASSM) was inaugurated yesterday (Nov. 19) at the BMICH under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

The second reading of the 2018 Budget was passed with 93 majority votes yesterday (16th Nov.) in the Parliament.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 14.11.2017

The Minister addressing a post budget forum in Colombo said that today one of the biggest barriers to starting a business is the cost of capital. Many young entrepreneurs and SMEs have innovative business ideas but they find it difficult to make these viable at prevailing interest rates of 15% and above.

Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Finance & Mass Media is finalizing the contents of the 2018 Budget with Dr.R.S.H.Samaratunga, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance & Mass Media at the Ministers' residence.

budget

Mayor of South Korean capital Seoul, Park Wonsoon paid a courtesy call on President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (November 7).

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 07.11.2017

The Presidents Awards for Scientific Publication held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Taj Samudra in Colombo, yesterday (06).

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull congratulated President Maithripala Sirisena for the great reconciliation programme undertaken by the Sri Lankan government.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that Japan is continuously assisting Sri Lanka as a true friend. He said this when a high-level Japanese delegation called on him today (November 1) at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss the Japanese development projects in Sri Lanka.

Statement made by Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera on the proposed new Constitution at the Parliament on 31st October 2017

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 31.10.2017

The First Draft Report of the Presidential Expert Committee on Sustainable Sri Lanka 2030 Vision, which is appointed to outline the Governments strategies for achieving 2030 UN sustainable development goals, was presented to President Maithripala Sirisena by Prof. Mohan Munasinghe at the Presidential Secretariat, today (01).

President Maithripala Sirisena says a righteous and disciplined society can be built only through strengthening the religious background in the country.

A special programme titled Mathuparapuraya jointly organized by the Presidential Secretariat, Bharti Airtel Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd, IDM Institute and the Ministry of Education, with the aim of enhancing the information technology literacy of the children in the country, will be implemented covering all the 25 districts of the country.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe participated at a ceremony held in Hatton to hand over title deeds for 2,864 beneficiaries under the new villages housing scheme yesterday (29th Oct.).

A joint committee to boost bilateral ties
Assistance to develop the ports of Sri Lanka & infrastructure facilities
Emir of Qatar agreed to invest for a natural gas power plant
Assistance for development activities in Sri Lanka through Qatar Development Fund
Seven new agreements signed between the two countries

Recently, at an event held under the patronage of former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa, under the banner of Viyathmaga, a former military officer has said that anyone supporting a new Constitution for the country should be killed.

Broad attention to strengthen economic, trade & tourism ties between two countries

1. Wayamba University Township Development Project (SAR 105 million)

Financial donations were made to the Buddhist Revival Fund, establish under the Presidential Secretariat under the guidance of President Maithripala Sirisena for the development of deprived rural temples that are in need of assistance, at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (23).

President Maithripala Sirisena says the devolution of power should be used to fulfill the needs of the people while strengthening them, but not for the benefit of the politicians.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 17-10-2017

The UN Special Rapporteur Mr. Pablo de Greiff met with President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mr. Mangala Samaraweera while attending to the WB/IMF annual meeting in Washington at the conclusion of the meeting called on Mr. Mitsuhiro Furusawa, Deputy Managing Director of the IMF and held discussion on matters of mutual interest.

The Minister of Finance and Mass Media underscoring the development priorities of the emerging economies at the World Bank/International Monetary Funds annual meeting in Washington emphasized on the needs of adapting the multilateral system to the changing global economy through active dialogue and cooperation among the international community while addressing valid country specific concerns and ensuring mutual benefits.

The Kaluganga Development Project is being implemented by the Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment with the financial assistance of Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) and OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).

Sri Lanka under the unity government headed by President Maithripala Sirisena and the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe is poised to leapfrog the economy after long years of conflict and political instability.

Sri Lanka reviews progress of 5-Year Grant Compact with U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation.

-Minister Mangala attends Commonwealth Finance ministers meeting in Washington.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera met the Director South Asia of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank - Mr.Mengistu Alemayehu in Washington on Wednesday. Wide ranging discussions focused on ways and means of enhancing mutual co-operation to promote private sector contribution for the economic development of Sri Lanka.
Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera commended the co-operation extended by the IFC towards promoting the private sector contribution for the development of the countrys economy at a time where the government has accorded high priority to private sector involvement in the economy by way of Public Private Partnerships.
Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera who is scheduled to present his maiden Budget next month as the Minister of Finance, said that the budget aimed at creating a robust, flourishing and modern economy and would focus on a start - up culture of empowering the private sector. Following extensive deliberations with Minister Samaraweera and his delegation, IFC Director - Mr.Mengistu Alemayehu stated that the IFC will support infrastructure development, /Eco tourism and affordable housing in Sri Lanka currently.
IFC is the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, has its focus on the private sector, operating in more than 100 developing countries and applies lessons learned in one region to solve problems in another. Sri Lanka joined the IFC since its inception in 1956 and it has so far committed over 1.3 billion USD in Sri Lanka.
IFCs committed portfolio in Sri Lanka covers projects across a range of sectors, including infrastructure, tourism, renewable energy, finance and healthcare. IFC also provides advisory services to promote sustainable growth among small and medium enterprises by facilitating access to finance and by offering capacity-building and training opportunities.
The Sri Lankan delegation associated with the minister included Deputy Minister Dr.Harsha de Silva, Mr.Mano Tittawella, Snr Adviser Mr.S.R.Attygalle Deputy SSecretary to Treasury. Mr.Ajith Abeysekara - Addl Director General, Mrs.Hemantha Pubudusiri Director External Resources Dept.
Mr. Mengistu Alemayehu was accompanied by Ms.Idah Pswarayi-Riddihough WB Country Director for Sri Lanka and Maldives , Ms.Amena Arif, IFC Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives.

The Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mr Mangala Samaraweera who is currently in Washington to attend the World Bank/IMF annual meeting met with the US under Secretary for Political Affairs Ambassador Thomas Shannon, today at the US State Department.

President Maithripala Sirisena says any government circular should not be a reason to delay or ineffective any public service.

Sri Lanka is to obtain USD 75 million (approx. Rs. 11,400 million) from International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank to implement the Financial Sector Modernization Project.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 03.10.2017

President Maithripala Sirisena says the objective of the Government is to further strengthen Parliament through a constitution, which strengthen the rights of all the citizens in an undivided unitary state.

President Maithripala Sirisena opened the new building of South East Asia Middle East Western Europe 5 (SEA-ME-WE 5) state-of-the-art submarine cable system landing station by the Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT), at Matara,yesterday(02).

Current government is following the United Nations and international charters, agreements and statements on children while fulfilling a comprehensive task beyond that for the children of the nation, says President Maithripala Sirisena.

I would like to condemn in the strongest possible terms, the attack against Rohingya refugees - refugees who were under the care of UNHCR, yesterday in Mount Lavinia, by a group of thugs in robes. In fact I condemn these actions not only as the Minister in charge of Media.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 26.09.2017

Ministry of Finance calls for proposals from all stakeholders including the general masses to be included in the Budget 2018, to presented in Parliament in November this year.

The conference on Practical Use Of RTI Act In Sri Lanka organized in parallel to the International RTI Day will be held tomorrow (28th Sept.) at Global Tower Hotel

President Maithripala Sirisena returned to the country today (25) after successfully concluding his visit to New York, USA where he attended the 72nd sessions of the UN General Assembly.

President Maithripala Sirisena says Sri Lanka is performing for the betterment of its people with much responsibility, in keeping with the charters of UN, as a member of United Nations. He said the government is taking the process to ensure human rights and reconciliation forward step by step.

The UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres says the UN is ready to provide every possible assistance to Sri Lanka in its efforts to build as a prosperous nation where the reconciliation is strengthened.

President Maithripala Sirisena who attended the luncheon hosted by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, for Heads of States attending the 72nd UN General Assembly. President Sirisena and First Lady Jayanthi Sirisena had cordial discussions with the US President and First Lady and posed for a photograph with them.

The Sessions of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) was commenced on September 18 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

President Maithripala Sirisena who left Colombo for New York to attend the 72nd General Assembly of the United Nations arrived at the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York this morning (Sep. 18).

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremeisnghe participated at the Business Summit Organized by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants held yesterday (11th Sept.) at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.

The government has decided to change the working hours of offices in Battaramulla area as a solution to the traffic congestion in Colombo.

The State Literary Awards Ceremony, an occasion to give due accolade to the literati who enrich the field of literature in Sri Lanka with their creations, was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, yesterday (08).

The foundation stone laying ceremony of the Pandith Amaradeva Sangeetha Asapuwa was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the premises of the Ape Gama, today (28).

Under the guidance of H.E. the President and in gratitude of the invaluable service rendered by the eminent Maestro Dr. Pandith Amaradeva, the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media is making arrangements to establish a monastery of music named Amaradeva Aspuwa at Ape Gama, Battaramulla inclusive of historic researches, archives, libraries and a museum.

Mr Gamini Jayawickrama Perera has been appointed as the new Minister of Buddha Sasana and Ms Thalatha Atukorale has been appointed as the new Minister of Justice. They took their oaths before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidents Official Residence, today (25).

President Maithripala Sirisena will hand over 10,000 title deeds for land to the Mahaweli farming community in Kotmale and Victoria Mahaweli Zones at the Central Province Stadium in Digana today(August 18). This is under the national programme to distribute 100,000 deeds to Mahaweli farmers in several phases.

President Maithripala Sirisena opened the photographic exhibition titled Heta Dakina Ranil (Ranil who sees the future) depicting the special moments of 40 years in politics of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the BMICH,today (17).

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 15-08-2017

All budget proposals from ministries for next year should accompany the output targets with KPI to comply with the performance budget - Finance Ministry

The construction work of the first two projects to generate electricity from garbage was commenced under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (Aug. 10) in Kerawalapitiya.


01 Parliamentary Budget Office (Document 07)


01. Establishment of a centre of Excellence for Higher Education ( Document No 10)

Sri lankan youths, Rakitha Malewana and Senel Wanniarachchi who received an exceptional honour to win the Queens Young Leader Award and to collect their Awards from Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth, under the Queens Young Leaders programme called on President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat,yesterday (01).


01. Obtaining funds for Department of Railway to purchase 09 diesel power sets (Document No 07)

Minister of Finance & Media mentioned this while addressing the participants during a conference organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka  19th July 2017 held at the JAIC Hilton.

The launching ceremony for a book titled People of Sri Lanka published by the Ministry of National Co-existence, Dialogue and Official Languages was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the BMICH,yesterday (18).

01. Purchasing of buses to be deployed for providing transport facilities for School children. ( Document No 05)

It has been proposed to provide buses for the benefit of School children in 04 arduous educational zones in the central province and the proposed made by H.E The president Maithripala Sirisena, to purchase for passenger busses on the above propos at a cost of Rs. 12.08 Million as a pilot project under the Daruwan Surakimu (Lets protects our Children) national Program was approval by the cabinet of Ministers.


02. Creation of young entrepreneurs in field of agriculture (Document No 06)

It has been identified that lack of commercial level entrepreneurs level entrepreneurs in the agriculture field is a main course for the law productivity in the field. Hence it has been planned to implement a program to provide. Concessionary loans to 100 selected entrepreneurs in the Kurunegala District as a pilot Project and up on its success to facilitated 1000 entrepreneurs in Wayaba , North Cantal and Eastern provinces as its second phase and two select 10000 entrepreneurs from hold island as the third steps, with the view of increasing the contribution of the agriculture field in national Production proposal made by H.E. The President Maithripala Sirisena, to implement the above program , was approved by cabinet of Ministers.

03. Agreement on Grant and implementation between Millennium Challenge Cooperation and Sri Lanka.(Document No. 08)

MCC a foreign aid agency of US, will provide a grant of USD 7.4 Million for development of Several fields in Sri Lanka during next 05 years. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe , to sing the above agreement for obtaining the said Grant in implementing relevant program was approved by the cabinet of Ministers.

04. Providing accommodation for the staff of defense services, command and Staff (Document No.09 and 10)

Above Collage provides training for more than 130 offices annually, and to improve its efficiency, the proposal made by H.E. Prasident Maithripala Sirisena, as the Minister of defense, to construct a new tree stories building and a new four storied building for providing accommodations for its staff members, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Preventing the use of HCFC, which is harmful to ozone layer (Document No 11)

According to international conventions and obligations, the cabinet has appointed a technical committee on 16.08.2016, to make short term and long term recommendations to end the use of HCFC, minimizing its impact on the related field which HCFC is used. The proposal made by H.E. the Prasident Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and environment, implement its recommendations including the following, was approved by the cabinet of Ministers.

Prohibition of importing use or reconditioned equipment with ozone depleting substances which are mentioned in Montreal protocol.

Prohibition of import , production and assemble of tads or accessories which uses HCFC that exceed 100 value of Global Worming potential and 0.03 value of ozone Depleting potential with effect from 01.01.2018 and to prohibit the same which do not exceed above value which effect from 01.01.2021.

Imposing of a condition to issue environment protection permits for agencies in refrigerator and air conditioning , that they should have a refrigerant recovery and recycling machine with effect from 01.01.2019


06. Payment of compensations for acquisition of lands for Moragahakanda project, which were given in lieu of lands acquired for Wemidilla Reservoir. (Document No 12)

People who lost their lands due to Wemidilla Reservoir project were given new lands in 2008 and as they were again acquired for Moragahakanda project, the proposal made by H.E. The President Maithripala Sirisena as The Minister of Mahaweli development and Environment to pay financial compensation for 53 such persons, was approved cabinet of Ministers.


07. Preparation of a method to conduct practical examinations for issuing of driving licenses in qualitative and productive manner. (Document No 16)

It has been Propose to identity other parties other than examination of motor vehicle, as their monopoly has created some irregularities in issuing of driving licenses and low qualities of some drivers accordingly the proposed made by Hon. Nimal Siripala De Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to appoint a committee of officials. To prepare reports with suitable recommendations in this regard, was approved by the cabinet of ministers,

08. Offer a New House as the Jack pot if Sevana Lottery (Document No 19)

First draw of the new Sevana lottery is scheduled to be on 27.07.2017 and it has been proposed to offer a house as its Jack pot.

The proposal made by the HO. Ravi Karunanayaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to purchase this houses from and institutions recommended by the Ministry of Housing and Constructions and national Housing Development Authority, and to provide relevant contributions from sales income of the lottery to sevana fund , was approved by the cabinet of Ministers.


09. Production of 100 special boats to be deployed in rescue operations in flood situations (Document No -20)


A special boat with relevant tools and facilities that can be used in flood situations has been created by Sri Lanka Navy. About 10 persons can get a board in this boat. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Aura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to produce 100 boats through Sri Lanka Navy and to locate the near areas with a high potential of floods, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


09. National Health Policy. (Document No - 21)


Current health policy was prepared in 1996, and a new policy has been prepared considering the concept of universal Health Coverage, for the ten year period of 2016-2025. The proposal made by Dr. Rajitha senerathna , Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to grant approved for this policy, with following key policy factors, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

*Strengthening of service providing for healing objectives
*Treatment service that can be accessed by all
*Promotion of fare access to rehabilitation treatment service
*Establishment of a planning method for continues provision of services
*Development of strategies for minimizing the personal expenditures of patients and minimizing financial risk.
* Assuring an expanded health system with better restructuring including HR management
* Building of strategic partnership with all service providers in health sector.


11. Appointment of a Board of Governors for Ranminithenna National Tele cinema Park (document No-23 )


The proposal made by Hon. Mangala samaraweera , Minister of Finance and Mass Media , to appoint the above Board of Governor which comprises of experts in the relevant institutions was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


12. Land acquisition for Salawa township Development project (Document No-27)


As per the consent of Sri Lanka Army, the proposal made by Hon.Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Mega polis and Western Development, to acquire a land of 04 acres, 2 roods and 24.40 perches for following projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Widening of the main road with 04 lanes
Allocation of land for Bank Branches
Construction of Community Hall
Construction of Super Market Complex
Construction of 35 Shop Stalls
Construction of Childrens Park and a Stadium
Construction of food stores


13. Conducting international level training courses and workshops by Irrigation Training Institute (Document No-33)


The proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Soyza, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management. To provide facilities and for prepare a Administrative and financial method for Kothmale, International Training Institute of Irrigation and Water Management on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


14. Amendment of Judicature Act No 2 of 1978 (Document No-34)


Amendment of the above act has already been approved by the Cabinet and the proposal made by Hon.(Dr.) Wijayadasa Rajapaksha, Minister of Justice, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to drafts amendments for considering Justices of the Peace already appointed are valid to the District which they were residing at the time of appointment and regulations for objective of implementing a code of ethics for JPs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


15. Making relief for Communities in estate areas affected by floods and landslides (Document No-42)


About 872 families of above communities were affected in recent floods and the Proposal made by Hon.U.Palani Digambaram, Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development to implement relief activities including, resettlement, Provision of Rooting Sheets, Construction of Toilets, Water supply project, Provision of Water Tank, improved damaged child Development Centers at a cost of Rs.500 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


16. Immediate Steps to be taken for Prevention of irregular waste disposal in Colombo and suburbs and Dengue prevention (Document No-44)


The joint proposal made by Hon.Faizer Musthfa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government and Hon. Sagala Rathnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to implement following actions, decided at the meeting chaired by the Hon. Prime Minister, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Installation of CCTV Cameras on Public places where waste is disposed irregularly.
To make Compulsory installation of name boards with details of the owners or constructor in all construction sites in Colombo and Suburbs.
File private cases against persons responsible in maintaining dengue breeding sites in Schools, public Institutions & other institutions.
Impose regulations to check houses & properties which are looked & to take legal action against them under public security Act.
Attach relevant officers & Provide facilities to the operating room to continue its task within 24 hours.


17. Construction of Academic & Administrative Building in Nurses training Schools, kalutara (Document No-47)


The proposal made by Hon.(Dr) Rajitha Senarathne,Minister of Health Nutrition & Indigenous Medicine ,to award the above contract at accost of Rs.714.2 million (including tax),was approved by the cabinet of ministers.

18. Modernization of Jaya Container Terminal of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (Document No -48)


The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Ports & Shipping to implement the phase v of modernization activities to improve the capacity of terminal, was approved by the cabinet of Ministers.


19 .Empowerment of commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery & Corruption (Document No -50)


The Bureau of Democracy ,Human Rights,& Labor of US department of State, has agreed to provide financial aids on the above purpose & the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to Sign relevant MOUs to obtain the agreed grant of USP235,000 (Approximately Rs.35.25 million ),was approved by the cabinet of Ministers.


20. Obtaining Consultation Services for the efficiency and productivity of Disaster management process in Sri Lanka (Document No.51)

The Proposal made by the Hon. Anura Priyadharshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster management in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


21. Providing prompt solutions to issues occurred related to Uma Oya Multipurpose Development scheme (Document No.53)


A Cabinet subcommittee was appointed at the cabinet meeting held on 27.07.2017 to present a report on difficulties faced by residents due to the above project. As the Chairman of the subcommittee, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development and state Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement following recommendations with immediate effect, for providing reliefs for affected persons, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Construction of six largescale underground wells in suitable places after conducting a proper study.
Implementation of a special programme to provide water tanks for persons who has not yet received water tanks within next two weeks.
Transferring of 20 Tractor bowers of the ministry of Home Affairs to Badulla District Secretary for strengthening the water distribution process.
Accelerate the process of paying compensation for damaged properties.
Improve the efficiency of the National Building Research Institute by establishing a special unit.
Provide Rs.100 million to the provincial council for rehabilitation of rural roads in affected areas.
Strengthening of Jana Sahana Secretariat, which is already being established to provide reliefs.
Review the progress of relief operation fortnightly and monthly
Allocation of funds by budget 2018, to accelerate the Constructions of proposed water supply scheme in Bandarawela
Release of allocations of Rs.100 million for reconstruction of affected small reservoirs.
Grant the ownership of Lands identified for resettlement to relevant families through Bandarawela Divisional Secretary with immediate effect
Provide additional Financial allocations required to rehabilitate affected schools
Granting of a two year Concessionary period for payment of housing and agricultural loan instalments
Implement a special alternative livelihood Development plan in affected areas
Sealing of the water leaking in the tunnel by the Iranian Company
Re-Consideration of future excavation of the project only on recommendations made by International Experts and a Domestic Committee of expert.

The International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) of the World Bank has shown their interest to mobilize its funds through a credit of USD 100 mn for the Accelerating Higher Education Expansion and Development (AHEAD) Operation.

President Maithripala Sirisena, who arrived at the Dhaka International Airport, yesterday13on a three-day State Visit to Bangladesh at the invitation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina received a grand welcome at the Dhaka International Airport.

Sri Lanka will receive USD 1,340 million worth of financial and technical assistance from the World Bank Groups for the 3-year period starting from July1, 2017 under the IDA (International Development Association) Transitional Support Facility.

01. Establishment of a panel of intellectuals on management of impacts of natural disasters (Document No 08)

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mr.Mangala Samaraweera during a discussion with representatives of the trade unions of the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) stated that the main objective of the new Inland Revenue Bill was to simplify the tax system in the country in order to create an investor friendly environment that will attract more foreign direct investments in the near future. The Minister said that the present tax system in place is complicated and that investors find it difficult to understand.

Having identified the need for developing the infrastructure such as rural roads, medium and small size irrigation and rural and urban water supply, the Government of Sri Lanka has decided to implement Rural Infrastructure Development Project in Emerging Regions and Kalu Ganga Water Supply Expansion Project (I).

President Maithripala Sirisena today (July 10) declared open Deepa Uyana Park, built near the sacred city of Polonnaruwa for the relaxation and entertainment of the people.

The Asian Development Bank has doubled its multi sectoral assistance to Sri Lanka as a result of the merger of its two main windows of financing.


01. Construction of the headquarters of the Civil Security Department (Subject No 06 of the agenda)

Secretary to the President, Austin Fernando said the duty of the officials at the Presidential Secretariat is to carry out the policy outlined by the President Maithripala Sirisena and develop new policies where there are no established policies, inspired by the vision of the President.

In accordance with the long term economic cooperation between the two Countries, the Government of Japan has agreed to provide grant assistance of Japanese Yen 2,503 million ( Approximately Rs. 3,422 million) under Grant Aid Program for the Establishment of a Radar Weather Network in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this project is the effective mitigation of the devastation generated by disasters caused by hazardous meteorological phenomena through the improvement of the weather information and forecast released by the Department of Meteorology.
Accordingly, The Project is expected to construct Puttalam and Pottuvil Radar Tower Buildings to establish a Doppler Weather Radar Network including C - band Pulse Compression Solid State Dual Polarization Doppler Meteorological Radar Systems, Meteorological Radar Central Processing System, Meteorological Radar Data Display Systems and Meteorological Data Communication Systems. Further, the project is consisted of the technical support for strengthening the monitoring capability of hazardous meteorological phenomena of the staff of the Department of Meteorology.
The signing of Exchange of Notes and Grant Agreement pertaining to the above Grant took place today, at the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media. His Excellency, Kenichi Suganuma Ambassador of Japan in Sri Lanka signed the Exchange of Notes on behalf of the Government of Japan while Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Mass Media signed on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka. In addition Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Mr. Fusato Tanaka signed the Grant Agreement on behalf of the Government of Japan while Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Mass Media signed on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka.
BACK TO MAIN PAGE

President Maithripala Sirisena says the government expects to get the assistance of foreign specialists to seek the possibility to take forward the Uma Oya project by preventing the disturbance occurred for the people.

President Maithripala Sirisena vested the first phase of the Lakhiru Sevana Housing Complex in Maligawatta, with the public, yesterday (28). The Government launched this project with the aim of relocating of households presently located in undeserved settlements in the city of Colombo.

A felicitation ceremony to celebrate 50th anniversary of the artistic life of the veteran film director Dr. Dharmasena Pathiraja who rendered a significant service to the progress of Sri Lankan cinema, was held yesterday (June 26) at the Tharangani Hall in National Film Corporation. President Maithripala Sirisena attended the ceremony.

At present, all the testing works of the Moragahakanda hydro-electricity plant, which will generate25MW hydro-power to the national grid, have been concluded.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 20-06-2017

President Maithripala Sirisena hosted an Iftar dinner yesterday (June 20), at the Presidential House.

Minister of Finance & Mass Media concluded his first official overseas visit after assuming office, to take part in the Board of Governors meeting of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank held in Jeju Island in Republic of Korea from the 16th to the 17th of June 2017.

The National Buddhist Think Tank held a meeting under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 13-06-2017

Sri Lanka will offer its unstinted support towards plans drawn up by the Food and Agriculture Organisation to combat illegal and unregulated fishing activities Prime Minster Ranil Wickremsinghe said.


It took several centuries for the human beings to be modest enough to accept the fact that they are only one of creations of the nature.

The government of America has extended a donation of Rs.350 million to assist the program carried out by the Sri Lankan government to build the houses destroyed by the adverse weather condition.

President Maithripala Sirisena visited floods and landslide affected areas in Rathnapura today.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 16-05-2017

President of Nepal Bidhya Devi Bhandari who was on a four day visit as Chief Guest at the closing ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations left for Nepal Yesterday (16th May)

The Official Photo Album of the visit of Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari was handed over to him by Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake at the Hilton Hotel before she left the island after a four day successful visit yesterday.(16th May).

President Maithripala Sirisena has extended his special thanks to all those who contributed to successfully hold the 14th United Nations Day of Vesak Festival in Sri Lanka.

President Maithripala Sirisena says the government has already implemented large number of mega projects for the development of the irrigation and agricultural sectors in the country.

President Maithripala Sirisena presenting a memento to the President of Nepal Bidhya Devi Bhandari, the Chief Guest at the closing ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak at the Sri Dalada Maligawa premises in Kandy yesterday.

President of Peoples Republic of China XI Jinping met Hon. Prime Minister at the opening ceremony of the One Belt – One Road Conference in Beijing, China.

“Determination of everybody on this celebration of International Day of Vesak should be building of a society with equivalence and justice, by through lighting a lamp of illumination to dispel darkness”, says Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, who is the Chief Guest of the opening ceremony the UN Vesak Day Celebration 2017 in Colombo, will arrive here this evening (11th May) from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

The first flag of War Heroes Commemoration Month was pinned on President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (May 04) by declaring the National War Heroes Commemoration Month – 2017.

President Maithripala Sirisena says the country should import only essential goods and added that the government would implement required plan of action after a research is carried out on all imported food and other goods.

The government will seek high standards in media in Sri Lanka through the establishment of an independent media commission said Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister Karu Paranawithana addressing world press freedom day conference in Jakarta yesterday (03).

The environmental program ‘Parisaraya Pujaniyai’ (the Environment is Sacred), organized together with the International Vesak Festival to be held in the sacred premises of the Daladamaligawa in the historic city of Kandy, was launched Yesterday (May 2) at the sacred temple of tooth relic under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.


01. Amendment to the Explosives Ordinance no 21 of 1956 (Document No – 06)

The ‘Mahaweli Prathiba’ Cultural Festival organized to portray the artistic talents of children of Mahaweli Zones held in a grand scale under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, yesterday (April 27).

According to a concept of President Maithripala Sirisena, the Mahaweli Cultural Unit and the Mahaweli Centre jointly organized the ‘Mahaweli Prathiba’ Cultural Festival with the aim of enhancing artistic talents of school children in Mahaweli Zones.
Identification of artistic abilities, providing guidance to enhance artistic talents, promoting cultural events to promote and preserve Sri Lankan identity, creating a stage for the children of Mahaweli Zones to present their talents locally as well as internationally, are among the long term objectives of this event.
This time the ‘Mahaweli Prathiba’ Cultural Festival was held with the participation of over 850 children in Mahaweli Zones, and it comprised of colourful competitions, singing, dancing and announcing competitions, debates, essay reading, the arts, writing lyrics and short drama competitions.
The President presented awards and certificates to students who showed outstanding performance in competitions.
Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Vijith Vijayamuni Soysa, Deputy Minister Anuradha Jayaratne, Secretary to the Ministry of Mahaweli Development & Environment, Mr. Udaya R. Seneviratne, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Karunasena Hettiarachchi, Director General of the Mahaweli Authority, Anura Dissanayake, Director of the Mahaweli Centre, Aruna Prasad, Ambassadors, artistes and dignitaries were present at this event.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who is on a four day official visit to India called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House yesterday. Picture shows the Indian Prime Minister receiving his Sri Lankan counterpart.

The 15 th and 16 th phases of the “Ranaviru Dudaru Scholarship Programme” initiated to provide financial support for the education of needy children of the deceased/disabled personnel of Army, Navy, Air Force, Police and Civil Defense Force were implemented under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (25).

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe commencing his official visit arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, India last evening (25th April).

01. Issuing permits for passenger transport buses in Southern Expressway (Document No – 12)

Prime Minster Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the government has decided to reimburse the total value of the damaged houses due to the Meethotamulla disaster.

President Maithripala Sirisena instructed to issue an extraordinary gazette notification to declare garbage disposal as an essential service, with effect from midnight of April 20.

President Maithripala Sirisena has given instructions to expedite the resettlement process for the people who are affected by the section of the Meethotamulla garbage dump collapse. Accordingly, a programme for providing houses for the displaced persons will be implemented from today (April 20). Initially, houses will be given to 98 families, whose houses were completely destroyed.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who is on an official visit to Japan will commence official discussions today (11th April).

Avurudu Neketh Seettuwa (the document containing the auspicious times for the traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year) was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena today (April 11) at the President’s Official Residence in Colombo.

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 04-04-2017

The Most Ven. Davuldena Gnanissara Thera with comprehensive knowledge of the Dhamma illuminated the Buddha Sasana. The Mahanayake Thera who rendered a yeoman service for the upliftment of Buddhism in the country, was conferred with titles of Sanskruthika Chakravarthi, Grantha Visharada, Dwi Bhasha Visharada, Sanskrutha Sahithya Saraswathie and shad Bhasha Parameshwara.
The Mahanayake Thera, who was fluent in Sinhala, Pali and Sanskrit languages, used his broad knowledge and abundant communication skills to spread Buddhism around the world.
Most Ven. Davuldena Gnanissara Thera was born in Davuldena in Uva Paranagama in the Uva province on December 30, 1915 and was ordained as a novice monk during his childhood.
May the Mahanayake of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya Most Ven. Davuldena Gnanissara Thera who spent his life to render the most valued and selfless service to the Buddha Shasana, attain the ultimate bliss of Nibbana.

President Maithripala Sirisena was the chief guest at the ‘Uththamabhivandana Ranga Perahera’ stage show enacting the heroic saga of Uva Wellassa yesterday (April 3) at the Nelum Pokuna in Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena has given instructions to the officials to implement an accelerated programme to provide necessary desks and chairs to student bhikkhus and other students who are receiving Priven Education across the country.

The Presidential Committee on Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd (ANCL), appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena to study the issues pertaining to the newspaper publisher and suggest improvements visited the ANCL located in the Lake House.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that he is not prepared to make any war hero a suspect in the charges leveled against the armed forces and the government on the alleged violations of human rights during the war against terrorism. He made this statement at the opening of the newly constructed three-storeyed building at the Defence Services School in Kurunegala. The President presented ‘Virisara’ beneficial cards to war heroes at the function held Yesterday (March 29).

President Maithripala Sirisana presented awards and prizes to the students who passed 2016 GCE A/L examination and grade five scholarship examinations with outstanding results. The function was held at the Presidential Secretariat today (March 28).

Hon. Prime Minister participated the 43rd Forum of Sri Lanka’s Attorney Association at Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.


President Putin extends fullest support to President Sirisena’s policies

President Maithripala Sirisena received a warm welcome at the Domodedovo International Airport in Moscow today. He was received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Igor Morgulov, Chief of Protocol and other high officials of the Russian Federation. Sri Lankan ambassador to Russia Dr. SamanWeerasinghe and embassy staff and family members were also present at the airport, where the brief ceremony was held. The ceremonial welcome will be held at the Kremlin in Red Square tomorrow where President Vladimir Putin will well come him and a guard of honour will also be held.

01. Implementation of 'Shrama Shakthi' programme for alleviation of poverty (Document No – 05)

The poverty of Sri Lanka which was 26.1% in 1990 could be reduced to 6.7% in 2011 with various social security programmes implemented in the past. 2017 has been declared as the year of elimination of poverty in Sri Lanka and further steps should be taken to achieve this goal.
Under the 'Shrama Shakthi' programmes 700 Grama Niladhari Divisions are selected which records a poverty of 10% to 45% in 2017 and a Peoples' Company Council will be established with a General Council and a Board of Directors with the participation of 80% of families in above divisions. Representatives of these companies will be trained and deployed in poverty alleviation and development funds will be issued to these companies. Rs. One million will be issued to each village at the end of 2017.

In addition to these 700 villages, another 300 villages with a capacity for development of production will be selected and they will be provided with necessary technology and financial facilities to create new employment opportunities. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to implement the above programme with public, private and people's participation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Introducing a new appropriate method to supply stones, sand, soil and pebbles required for government's development projects (Document No – 09)

There is an increased demand for above construction material with present development activities and it has been stressed the importance of introducing a proper method for supply them with minimum environmental impact.
Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to introduce a proper method to excavate for such material in lands under the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority and Department of Wildlife Conservation which are under the purview of the Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment, and to supply them after a proper environment impact assessment, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Development of pharmaceutical manufacturing industry (Document No – 10)

It is essential to improve the capacity of domestic pharmaceutical manufacturer to cater the pharmaceutical demand and provide quality medicines in low prices. About 15% of demand is manufactured in Sri Lanka and government expects to increase it to 80%. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to provide tax reliefs to raw materials, packaging materials, equipments, tools and accessories, and to accelerate the establishment of the proposed Biomedical Zone to attract investors, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Securities Exchange bill 2017 (Document No – 13)

The government expects to introduce a new act instead of Securities and Exchange Commission Act No. 36 of 1987 and the presented concept paper has been amended with the laws, experiences of Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to draft a new act as Securities Exchange Act to strengthen the independence of Securities and Exchange Commission and make attractive the capital market of Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Netherland concessionary financial facilities (Document No – 14)

The government of Netherland through reputed companies of their country has agreed to provide concessionary financial facilities to construction of rural bridges, construction of Polonnaruwa Vocational Training Centre, and implementation of Mirigama Water Supply project, and accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to take necessary steps to evaluate the proposals presented by such companies, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Providing the ownership of lands which are the Condominium and Non condominium properties of the government to their long term residents (Document No – 15)

The government plans to build 500,000 houses for low and medium income families in 2017 and budget 2017 has proposed to grant the ownership of Condominium and Non condominium properties of government to their residents who have been dwelling in those lands for more than 15 years. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to prepare a suitable mechanism in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Investing for infrastructure in public sector through Public Private Partnership (PPP) (Document No – 16)

Sri Lanka with compared to other countries in the region is regressive in infrastructure development due to the dependence on public funds and it would be productive to try the PPP module which is successfully applied by other countries. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Negotiation Committee and a Project Committee to prepare a suitable mechanism to attract foreign investments through PPP, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Memorandum of Understanding between Sri Lanka and Russia on cooperation in tourism sector (Document No – 17)

The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to sign the above MoU in line with the official visit of H.E. the President in Russia, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. MoU between the National Zoo in Sri Lanka and National Zoo in Singapore (Document No – 18)

The proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to sign the above MoU for exchange of technological knowledge, information for the scheduled developments in Dehiwala Zoo and its affiliated Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and Ridiyagama Safari Park to be implemented till the end of 2018, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Establishment of a National Science Centre (NSC) (Document No – 23)

A land of seven acres (07) has already been allocated at Pitipana, Homagama on the above purpose and it should be established according to international standards. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee for obtaining necessary consultation services, and obtain technological and financial assistance from suitable agencies, in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Establishment of a setting up picture archival and communication system (pacs)/ radiology information system (riS) for 20 Government Hospitals in Sri Lanka (Document No – 25)

Patients with various situations arrive at government hospitals for treatment and it has become essential to keep their reports stored properly to be referred again. They should be stored with modern technology to be found easily when required. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to establish a setting up picture archival and communication system (PACS)/ radiology information system (RIS) for 20 government hospitals, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Strengthening capacity of hospitals and Regional medical supplies divisions (Document No – 26)

Considering the importance of providing quality medical supplies in time, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to implement the two (02) projects, i.e. the project for developing store facilities in 134 hospitals and 26 Regional Medical Supplies Divisions at a cost of Rs. 712 million and the project for expanding Medical Supplies Management Information System to Regional Hospitals at a cost of Rs. 954 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Providing funds for N.C.D Alliance lanka for fight against non communicable diseases (Document No – 27)

Above alliance has been established to counter non communicable diseases and it has agreed to a 05 year strategic plan to prevent and control NCDs. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to provide Rs. 5 million annually to the said alliance for 05 years from 2017 to implement the activities identified by the strategic plan from allocations given to the Ministry of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. New Inland Revenue Act (Document No – 29)

The budget 2016 has proposed to introduce a new inland revenue act for create a better tax structure by modernizing tax administration based on noncomplex tax principles and improve efficiency of the department of inland revenue. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft the new bill based on prepared concept paper, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Economic Service Charge (Amendment) bill (Document No – 31)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to publish in gazette and present in parliament for approval, the bill drafted by Legal Draftsman to amend the Economic Service Charge Act No. 13 of 2006 and cleared by Attorney General, including the amendments proposed by 2016 and 2017 budgets, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Drafting new immigrants and emigrants act (Document No – 37)

Although, the Immigration and Emigrations Act No. 20 of 1948 was amended in 1955, 1961, 1993, 1998,2006, and 2015 it should be amended to suit present complex global challenges such as illegal migrations, human trafficking, terrorism, transnational crimes etc. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft the new act, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Lease a land for a Clinical waste management project (Document No – 39)

Ministry of Health, Central Environment Authority and Sisili Hanaro Encare (PVT) Ltd has planned to implement a clinical waste management project in Mulleriyawa Hospital. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to provide a land of 2 acres 1 rood and 23.99 perches at Muthurajawela on 30 year lease basis to Sisili Hanaro Encare (PVT) Ltd, on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Establishment of a Project Management Unit to implement Light Rail Transit project (Document No – 40)

The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to Establishment of a Project Management Unit to implement Light Rail Transit project from Colombo Fort to Maradana via Bambalapitiya and Borella and from Borella to Malabe, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Provision of memorial tea packages for foreign tourists at Bandaranaike International Airport (Document No – 43)

The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to implement a programme of promoting Ceylon tea by giving a free tea package for tourists of selected countries using Rs. 100 million from Sri Lanka Tea Board, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Grant relief on loan interests for installing solar panels for domestic electricity consumers (Document No – 44)

Above programme was introduced for consumers who receive a monthly bill of Rs. 2000/- by budget 2017. However, 40% of consumers get a bill less than Rs. 300/-. Therefore, to make this programme it was proposed to grant the relief to all consumers and for loans obtained from any state or private bank and to increase the limit of the loan from Rs. 150,000/- to 350,000/-. The above proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Development of the land owned by Sri Lanka State Engineering Corporation (SLSEC) in Peliyagoda (Document No – 52)

SLSEC owns a land of 14.5 acres at Pelityabgoda with a potential of using in a largescale development activity especially on residential and commercial purposes. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee and a project committee on necessary further activities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22. Make it compulsory to establish letter boxes in housing complexes to be constructed to provide its inhabitants with postal facilities (Document No – 56)

The proposal made by Hon. M.H.A. Haleem, Minister of Post, Postal Services and Muslim Religious Affairs, to construct a separate place with letter boxes in existing and newly constructing housing complexes for each household and to provide the relevant keys to owners of houses, to prevent difficulties faced by postmen in delivering post in housing complexes and to instruct relevant ministries to direct Urban Development Authority, Housing Development Authority and relevant Local Government Institutions to act in accordance with this decision, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23. Amendment to Registration of Dogs Ordinance No 25 of 1901 (Document No – 57)

Above amendment is to be done to address difficulties faced by public due to stray dogs. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to amend the above ordinance to make provisions to increase the fine on owners of stray dogs to Rs. 25000 and the imprisonment to 02 years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24. Rural Bridges Project – second Phase – Construction of 63 additional bridges (Document No – 58)

Cabinet has approved obtaining a loan of GBP Sterling 100 for construction of 537 bridges from Deutsche Bank AG London on 21 February 2014 and its project period ends on 08 December 2017. As to changes of exchange rates there is a surplus of funds and accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to use those funds in building 63 additional bridges and to extend the project duration from another 03 months from 08 December 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25. Presenting Regulations made by Minister of Sports under Sports Act No. 25 of 1973 (Document No – 60)

The proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to present in parliament for approval, the Gazette notification (Extraordinary) No. 1990/23 dated 27-10-2016 and the gazette notification (amended) No. 13/2006 dated 13-02-2017 issued by repealing the Sports Regulations made by the Minister of Sports under section 41 of the same act (to read with section 31 of the Sports Act No. 25 of 1973), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

26. Amendments to the provisions of poisons, opium and dangerous drugs ordinance No. 17 of 1929 and poisons, opium and dangerous drugs (amendment) Act No. 13 of 1984 (Document No – 61)

The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to amend above acts according to proposals made by legislation subcommittee of the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, with the contribution of relevant stakeholders, to amend the punishments and laws to save the future generation from the drug menace, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

27. Amendment to Information and Communication Technology Act No. 27 of 2003 (Document No – 62)

A centralized Household Transfer Management Project is to be implemented with the view of establishing a National Digital Identifier and National Digital Transaction platform. In this regard a National Policy on Collection, Storage, sharing and use of citizen's personal data should be compiled to affirm the protection of those data. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to amend the above act for implementation of above tasks, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

28. Proposed solution to the dispute relating to some of the employees of human capital solutions (PVT) LTD – subsidiary of Sri Lanka Telecom Plc (Document No – 63)

Human Capital Solutions (PVT) LTD is established to provide human resources to Sri Lanka Telecom and other external institutes. Their staffs are consisted of 2650 employees and 2180 of them are attached to SLT. They are paid by HCS and 1331 permanent employees are receiving a monthly salary between Rs. 30000 to Rs. 100000 with other benefits.

Some of these employees demand to absorb them to SLT and if they are absorbed SLT would have to spend an additional cost of Rs. 1.6 billion.

However, considering the proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, the Cabinet of Ministers have decided to instruct the Board of Directors of SLT to absorb qualified and experienced employees of HCS to SLT on humanitarian grounds under 04 stages from 2017 to 2020.

29. Award of contract for Rehabilitation of stage 3 of Minipe left bank canal (from 49.82km to 63.65 km) under Mahaweli Water Security Investment project (Document No – 67)

The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, to the lowest responsive bidder, the Nawaloka Constructions (PVT) Ltd at a cost of Rs. 625.73 million (without VAT), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

30. Medirigiriya water supply scheme phase III - supply and laying of HDPE/DI pipes, fittings, specials and valves for pumping mains of bisopura and kumudupura water tower (Document No – 71)

The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, to the lowest responsive bidder, the M/s Sanken Construction (PVT) Ltd – Vonlan Constructions (PVT) Ltd at a cost of Rs. 678.06 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

31. Augmentation of water pipe lines along with the Orugodawatta Ambathale Road Development Project (Document No – 73)

Proposals were called from 03 companies to implement above project but only Mascinen – Umwelttechink – Transport Anlagen (M-U-T) has presented proposals. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the contract to the said company at a cost of Rs. 46.21 million Euros, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

32. Construction of a Bone Marrow Transplant Centre at Teaching Hospital Kandy to cure Thalassaemia (Document No – 74)

There are about 3500 thalassaemia patients and 500000 vectors in the country. It is identified that establishment of the above unit is necessary as many of Thalassaemia patients are in Kurunegala, Colombo, Gampaha, Anuradhapura, Badulla, Ampara and Kandy Districts. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above contract to Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau, and Central Engineering Services Private Limited at a cost of Rs. 856.9 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

33. Construction of Ayurveda hospitals and their infrastructure development (Document No – 75)


Cabinet has approved several projects in the country to develop indigenous medicine in the country in 2013 and 2016 but the projects have been delayed due to various reasons. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to accelerate these projects and to obtain the consultancy services for the projects from Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau and to award construction activities to State Engineering Corporation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

34. Construction of accommodation building and administration building at National Police Academy, Katana (Document No – 79)

The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to implement the above project as the first step of developing the academy to international standards, at an estimated cost of Rs. 674.26 million within midterm budgetary framework 2017-2019, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

35. Drafting of voluntary disclosure bill (Document No – 81)

This act aims to encourage the payment of income taxes and similar programmes implemented in various countries have increased their tax earnings. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft the above bill based on the drafted concept paper, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

36. Foreign Exchange bill (Document No – 82)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister and Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, Ranil Wickremesinghe, to publish in the gazette and present in parliament for approval, the Foreign Exchange Bill drafted by Legal Draftsman and cleared by the Attorney General, repeal the existing foreign exchange laws that do not comply with present day needs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

37. Concession agreement of the Port of Hambantota (Document No – 83)

The above agreement which is to be signed between Sri Lanka and China Merchant Port Holdings Company in China aims at preparing future plans, financial provision, operational promotion and development of infrastructure including completed phase I and II and proposed phase III. The Cabinet of Ministers have decided to enter into the above agreement which is cleared by the Attorney General and to appoint a Cabinet Subcommittee chaired by Minister of Special Assignments (Dr.) Sarath Amunugama to supervise its implementation.

38. Establishment of a National Vocational Training Centre in Hingurakgoda (Document No – 86)

About 3,225 students annually leave schools after sitting for OL and AL examinations in Polonnaruwa District but capacity of government training centres is insufficient. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, and Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to establish a new vocational training centre in Hingurakgoda under loan assistance from the Government of Netherland, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

39. Accelerating Higher Education Expansion and development (Document No – 87)

Above project expects to increase the higher education opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and to improve the quality in higher education sector during 2017-2022. The International Development Agency has agreed to grant a loan of USD 33 million and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development has agreed to provide a loan of USD 67 million for the project. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to hold discussions and enter into loan agreements for obtaining these loans, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

President Maithripala Sirisena left for Russia today (22) on an official invitation made by the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Investiture Ceremony of conferring National Honours on distinguished personalities, who rendered a noble service to the country and its advancement, held yesterday (March 20) at the Nelum Pokuna Theater, under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

 

The ceremony to award National Honors for 90 distinguished personalities, who rendered a noble service to the country will be held this evening (20th March) at Nelum Pokuna theatre, Colombo under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena. This year the ceremony is held after 12 years.

The Presidential Secretariat announces that there is no scheduled visit by President Maithripala Sirisena to India in the next few days.

A special event was held to celebrate the centenary of the Great Russian Revolution 1917 at the BMICH under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena, yesterday (March 13).


National event to mark the 'World Kidney Day' which fell on 9th March will be held today (13th March) in Matale under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

President Maithripala Sirisena returned to the Island yesterday (08) after completing a successful State visit to Indonesia. Prior to the state visit, the President attended the Indian Ocean Rim Association Leaders’ Summit at the invitation of Indonesian President Joko Widoda. The visit helped strengthening the foreign relations and bringing many developmental benefits to the country.

Although in Sri Lanka, women are significantly empowered in many ways than their counterparts in the rest of South Asia, their role in domestic and household work has resulted in limitations being imposed on their contribution to the economy.
While being conscious of her role as a wife and a mother, it goes without saying that the woman of today has the capacity and the potential to play a greater role economically, socially and spiritually. As a nation, we must be able to set the stage for her to be accepted, acknowledged and recognised within a wider context; one in which we can truly assure her of an equal position and the rightful place in our society.
It is the obligation of the society and the government to ensure that women in Sri Lanka are able to aspire to the kind of empowerment women all over the world have experienced in modern times.
My hope is that the theme of this year's International Women's Day will encourage and facilitate the Sri Lankan woman, towards truly fulfilling the role required of her within a greater economic and a social framework at a national level.
This International Women's Day, may every Sri Lankan woman find the strength within her to successfully overcome challenges and emerge as a confident stake holder of Sri Lanka's common future.

President Maithripala Sirisena, addressing the Indian Ocean Rim Association Leaders’ Summit suggested to work out a stable legal order to confront with the issue of illicit drugs, in conformity with the principles of the freedom of navigation.

President Maithripala Sirisena left for Indonesia this morning (6th March) to attend the Leader’s Summit of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) commencing on 7th March.

The senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, Priyasad Depp was sworn in as the new Chief Justice before President Maithripala Sirisena at the President’s official residence,today (March 02).
Justice Priyasad Depp held the office of the Solicitor General from 2007 to 2011 and became a judge of teh Supreme Court in 2011. He had fulfilled his duties as the Acting Chief Justice several times.
Minister of Justice, Wijeyadasa Rajapakhse Secretary to the President P. B. Abeykoon, and family members of Justice Priyasad Depp participated in this swearing in ceremony.

justic

President Maithripala Sirisena signed the historic gazette notification proclaiming 82 brave sons of Motherland, who were named as traitors by the British Government for fighting for the freedom of the Motherland, as patriotic national heroes, at the Magul Maduwa (The Royal Audience Hall) in Kandy, March (01).
Even though it is a national responsibility to revoke the Gazette issued by the British Government declaring the national heroes as the traitors, it was neglected to fulfill that responsibility for nearly two hundred years.
Accordingly, the President signed the gazette notification giving the due honour and respect to those heroes, on March 02, the day that marks the completion of 202 years since signing of the Kandyan Convention 1815.
The event was held under the theme “Uththamabiwandana”.
President Sirisena addressing the huge gathering said that is an important day for the Sri Lankan Buddhist Community, which rectify a sad and tragic error in the history of our country.
The President expressed his appreciation over fulfilling this task which should have been done earlier. He added that we should recall with honour and respect our brave war heroes who sacrificed their lives during the 30-year battle against the terrorists, in a similar way we recalled the brave sons of Motherland who fought during the freedom struggle.
President Sirisena further said that the Cabinet approval has been granted to re-implement the Upcountry Rural Rehabilitation Commission (Udarata Gami Punaruththapana Commission) again aiming to streamline the development of the activities of upcountry as a result of the guidance given by the Maha Sangha of the Tri-Nikaya including the Anunayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters.
When the members of the Maha Sangha brought to the President’s attention that there are certain issues relating to lands belonging to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, President Sirisena promised to take immediate measures to rectify those issues.
The President signed the gazette notification amid the Seth Pirith chanting of the Maha Sangha. Subsequently, President Sirisena posed for a group photograph with the Maha Sangha, Ministers and MPs.
The President also paid floral tributes to the Statue of the Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Thera as well as to the Monument of the Keppetipola Maha Nilame at the premises of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Later he joined the “Uththamabiwandana” national ceremony.
During the event delivering a special sermon by the Anunayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters, appreciated the President as a leader who is created by the history.
The Maha Sangha of the Tri-Nikaya including the Anunayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters,Ministers Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, Gayantha Karunathilaka, Lakshman Kiriella, S.B.Disanayaka, Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavitana, Governor of the Central Province, Niluka Ekanayake, Chief Minister, Sarath Ekanayake and many others participated in this event.

kandy news4

kandy news3

{jathumbnail off}

The historic ceremony to declare about 82 heroes of the 1818 Uva-Wellassa Rebellion, who were sentenced to the capital punishment and were expatriated, as patriots will be held today (1st Mar.) in Kandy under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.
The President will sign the gazette declaring these 82 heroes of the 1818 rebellion as patriots at this historic ceremony named ‘Uththamaabhiwandana’, which is organized by the Department of Government Information. It will be held at 4.00 p.m. at the Magul Maduwa in Kandy.

Chief Prelates of Malwatta and Asgiriya chapters, Ven. Maha Sangha, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, Ministers, Parliamentarians, and the family members of the heroes of 1818 rebellion will participate at this event.

wiruwan 82

DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE CABINET OF MINISTERS
AT ITS MEETING HELD ON 28-02-2017


01. Accelerating Government's procurement procedure (Document No – 06)

H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena has presented following decisions taken at the meeting held on 03-02-2017 with the participation of himself, Hon. Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, relevant government officers, members of Procurement Commission and Procurement Appeal Board for the consideration of the Cabinet of Ministers.

Take action to publish in gazette the procurement guidelines and instructions issued by the Ministry of Finance from time to time regarding the government's procurement procedure through National Procurement Commission.

Include new time frames to be followed which have been already approved by the Cabinet in Procurement Guidelines.

Update and amend suitably the current procurement guidelines paying attention on new trends such as e-procurement.

In government constructions work on a general construction plan in suitable situations to reduce the money and time spent on designing.

Take action to provide technical skills to government officers on government procurement procedure.

02. Obtain 03 ships for the use of Sri Lanka Coast Guard Department (Document No – 07)

The Department of Coast Guard is engaged in operations of the Sri Lankan sea in extent of 517,000 square kilometres, and to perform their duties successfully they should have ships that are capable of launching in deep as well as shallow seas. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to construct 03 nos. of offshore patrol ships with a length of 85m through Colombo Dockyard Company, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Project for implementing National Bio safety Framework with conform to Cartagena Protocol on Bio safety (Document No – 08)

Above protocol was adopted by global community to reduce the risk of genetic changes to the environment and human health, and Sri Lanka is a member of that protocol. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement a project for implementing National Bio safety Framework using USD 2.36 million granted by the Global Environmental Facility within 2017-2020, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Setting up floating solar power plants on Mahaweli reservoirs (Document No – 09)

The cabinet has already approved the above programme as a policy and as its first step it has been decided to construct a solar power plant with a capacity of 100 Mw using less than 4% of Maduru Oya Reservoir which is about 500 acres. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, and Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to call for international competitive proposals on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Implementing rural development projects based on enterprise development (Document No – 10)

Although the socio-economic status in Northern and Eastern Provinces has considerably developed, the situation related to income inequality and poverty is unsatisfactory. Accordingly, the above project has been planned to providing concessionary loans for 1785 small scale entrepreneurs covering all eight (08) districts subject to a maximum of Rs. 250,000/- with the cooperation of Rural Development Bank and Sanasa Banks for uplifting their living standards. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of National Integration and Reconciliation, to implement the above project through Office for National Unity and Reconciliation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Provision of railway reservations to public institutions for public activities on lease basis (Document No – 13)

The Department of Railway provides lands belonging to the department for less than five (05) years to third parties on lease basis for public activities. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to charge only 1% charge of the assessed value and administrative expenses when providing them for public utility tasks such as laying of water pipes and electricity projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Allocation of a land for Pakistan High commission in Colombo (Document No – 15)

The proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to allocate a land of 1.5 acres in Barnes Place, Colombo 7 to the Pakistan High Commission to build its Chancery Building, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Post-disaster needs assessment report related to floods and landslides occurred in May 2016 (Document No – 16)

The most disasters flood and landslide was reported in May 2016 after 18 years affecting 24 districts and causing 93 deaths, 33 injuries and 117 disappearances and affecting a total of 493,319 victims. The Ministry of Disaster Management has done a Post-disaster Needs Assessment with the UN, World Bank, European Union and relevant ministries, and it has made long term plan for minimizing future risks. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to implement a broad disaster management programme within the five years from 2018-2023 based on the recommendations of the report, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Training Programme for facilitating prototype manufacturing of Solar panels (Document No – 17)

The government plans to generate 20% of overall electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2020 and the Cabinet has approved implementation of a training project on prototype manufacturing of solar panels on 06-04-2016. Four professors of 04 Universities of Kelaniya, Jaffna, Ruhuna and Peradeniya and a professor of National Institute of Fundamental Studies are engaged in providing trainings. The proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to obtain additional allocations of Rs. 80 million for obtaining required equipment, chemicals and consumer goods for this project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Introducing the concept of Statement of Corporate Intent for strategically important public enterprises (Document No – 18)

The above concept could be applied for public enterprises to encourage and facilitate to sustain those enterprises independently without depending on treasury. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to implement the Statements of Corporate Intent signed by Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Secretaries of line ministries and relevant Chairman of Ceylon Electricity Board, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Airport and Aviation Services Ltd. and Sri Lanka Ports Authority which are strategically important enterprises for the government, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Establishment of a new vocational training centre in Pahala Yagoda, Gampaha (Document No – 19)

About 17,500 students annually leave schools after sitting for OL and AL examinations in Gampaha District but maximum number of students enrolled in vocational training centres is about 7300 and only 960 can be enrolled to training centres of Vocational Training Authority. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to establish a new vocational training centre in Pahala Yagoda area of Gampaha considering the demand for trained technicians, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Providing seed paddy for Yala 2017 and Maha 2017/18 (Document No – 21)

Delayed and insufficient rainfall has caused a vast reduction in paddy cultivation in 2016/17 Maha Season that could result in reduction in harvest as well as seed paddy production required for 2017 Yala and 2017/18 Maha seasons. For affirming food safety in the country, the proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to produce seed paddy by productions of Department of Agriculture and to distribute among farmers for a concessionary price by purchasing from farmers who have cultivated, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Re-cultivation of abandoned paddy lands in the low country wet zone to minimize the impact on food security due to prevailing drought condition (Document No – 22)

The Department of Agrarian Services has identified 26,122 hectares of abandoned paddy fields in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kegalle, Galle and Matara districts and it has been proposed to implement a project of cultivating paddy, vegetables and yams in those lands by Ministry of Agriculture, Provincial Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture and Provincial Departments of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Services, and Department of Irrigation. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to provide financial allocations and to encourage farmers for cultivating 17000 hectares of abandoned lands and another 9000 hectares, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Compensation of aggrieved parties in accordance with the recommendations of the report submitted by the committee appointed to investigate into the incident occurred on 09th November 2012 at Welikada Prison (Document No – 28)

27 prisoners have died and one prison officer and 20 prisoners were injured in the above incident. The above committee has recommended paying compensation for 16 prisoners who were killed, and to prison officer and 20 prisoners who were injured. It says that it is unnecessary paying for the rest 11 prisoners as they were killed trying to escape from the jail. Considering the proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, the Cabinet of Ministers have decided to pay Rs. 2,000,000/- each for 16 prisoners who have died and Rs. 500,000/- each for victims who were injured due to the incident.

15. Facilitating transfer of jet fuel from Muthurajawela to Bandaranaike International Airport (Document No – 29)

It has been proposed to construct 04 steel tanks of 75,000 cubic meter capacity and a pipeline of 23 km to cater the jet fuel demand that could increase in line with improvements in the airport. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Chandima Weerakkody, Minister of Petroleum Resources Development, to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee and a Technical Evaluation Committee and to call for open international competitive bids for immediate implementation of this project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Construction of a synthetic running track for the renovated Bernard Aluwihare Stadium, Matale (Document No – 30)

Bernard Aluwihare stadium which is the largest stadium in Matale District is used not only by athletes in Matale but athletes from Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Kandy, Badulla, and Kurunegala Districts. Upgrading it to a sports complex has commenced in last year under the patronage of H.E. the President and there is a need of constructing a synthetic running track for the stadium. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to construct a running track of 400m and to obtain consultancy services of Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Declaration of Regulations against doping in sports (Document No – 31)

The proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to present in parliament for approval, the Anti-doping Regulations (prohibited list) No. 02 of 2016 made by the Minister of Sports under section 34 (1) of the convention against Doping in Sports Act No. 33 of 2013 and published in Gazette (Extraordinary) No. 2006/15 dated 14-02-2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Rehabilitation/improvement of the road section from Rambewa to MEdawachchiya on Kandy – Jaffna (A9) road (Document No – 33)

Asian Development Bank has provided a loan of USD 98 million to Sri Lanka for Northern Road Connectivity Project and, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to use a portion of the amount to improve the above road section (140.76 km to 150.40 km) and to award the contract to RR Construction (Pvt) Ltd which is the lowest bidder as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Design and construction of Yan oya left bank main canal (Document No – 35)

Yan Oya is a largest water resources development project in recent times which will benefit people in Anuradhapura and Trincomalee Districts. The left bank canal of the project will supply water for 4,190 hectares of land which faces a great water deficit. Concrete should be laid in whole land which is in extent of 18 Km, due to its location and other complex designs including a 05km long tunnel should be constructed.

It is observed that it requires international expertise knowledge but with the time spent for open international competitive bidding supply of water to needy people will be delayed. Hence, it would be productive to obtain the service of main contractor of the Yan Oya Project China CAMCE Engineering for this project. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to call for Technical and Financial proposals from China CAMCE Engineering for design and construction of this canal within 24 months on Engineering, Procurement and Construction basis, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Calling for expression of intention and project proposals for Kumbukkan Oya Reservoir project (Document No – 36)

The above reservoir with a capacity of 48 million cubic meters will provide water for 4280 hectares of new lands and 1255 existing lands and will generate electricity of 16 GWh and will provide drinking water. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to call for expression of intention and project proposals for identifying a suitable construction company, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Calling for expression of intention and project proposals for Heda Oya Reservoir project (Document No – 37)

The proposed above reservoir with a capacity of 147 million cubic meters, a diversion dam in 6.4 km below the reservoir, 16 km long right bank canal and 13.5 km long left bank canal, will provide water for 5308 hectares of new and existing lands in Heda Oya, Wila Oya and Karanda Oya basins and will provide 05 million cubic meters of water for drinking and other domestic purposes for Pothuwil, Lahugala, and Panama areas. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to call for expression of intention and project proposals for identifying a suitable construction company, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22. Amendments to the Office on Missing Persons (Establishment, Administration and discharge of functions) Act No 14 of 2016 (Document No – 39)

The above act was passed in parliament on 23 August 2016. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to publish in the gazette and present in parliament for approval, the Office on Missing Persons (Establishment, Administration and discharge of functions) (Amendment) Bill drafted by the Legal Draftsman to repeal its paragraph (a) of article 11 that authorizes the said office to enter into agreements with an individual or an organization in performing its tasks, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23. Signing the concord of the Indian Ocean Rim Association as an outcome document of the IORA leaders' summit (Document No – 41)

Above summit is to be held on 07 March 2017 at Jakarta, Indonesia, and H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena will attend the summit. The proposal made by Hon. Harsha de Silva, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the agreement at the summit with the expectation of promoting consultation and cooperation between its member countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24. Signing of two bilateral memorandums of understanding between Sri Lanka and Indonesia during the visit of H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena to Indonesia on 08 March 2017 (Document No – 42)

The proposal made by Hon. Harsha de Silva, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the following bilateral MoUs during the visit of H.E. the President, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

MoU between the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of Indonesia and the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development of Sri Lanka on marine and fisheries cooperation

MoU between Marketing Service Agency for the Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives of Indonesia and the National Craft Council of Sri Lanka on traditional industrial cooperation

25. Importation of rice to control price hike and shortage in the domestic market (Document No – 45)

The Cabinet has approved importation of rice through private importers to control the price hike on 20-12-2016 and by 26-02-2017 113,000 MT of rice have been imported and a slight reduce in price is observed. However, the stocks available in market are still insufficient the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to import 20000 MT of rice monthly through Cooperative Wholesale Establishment (CWE), and to have a buffer stock of 100,000 MT with CWE and import the same through government to government basis and to sell the imported rice in Sathosa outlets and through open market, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

 

The Department of Census and Statistics, on 17 November 2016 conducted the Census of Public and Semi Government Sector Employment 2016 which is the eighth in a series of censuses conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS). The first scientific Census on Public and Semi Government sector employment was carried out in 1980 in order to cater to the need of data on the ever growing Public and Semi Government sector. Subsequent to that, censuses were carried out in 1985, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006 and 2016. Before 1980, Ministry of Public Administration had been instrumental in conducting censuses in 1968, 1972 and 1976.

A Preliminary Report based on the summaries prepared manually at institutional level immediately after the census which covered both the public sector and the Semi Government sector has been prepared by the Department of Census and Statistics. The report presents information on employees at the work place they are currently attached to.

Dr. A.J. Satharasinghe, Director General of Census and Statistics stated that the total number of employees in the public and semi-government sector excluding three army forces is 1,117,808 of which 54.9 percent are males and 45.1 percent are females. The census results also show that the 7.6 per cent of employees are over 56 years while 15 percent and 77.4 percent of employees are in the age groups of 18-29 years and 30-55 years respectively.

The Census reveals that out of all public and semi government employees more than 95 per cent are holding permanent positions. This comprises of 75.6 per cent Permanent/Pensionable employees, 3.9 per cent permanent/ pensionable employees who are also contributing to a provident fund, and 15.7 per cent permanent employees who are contributing to a provident fund.

The Census preliminary results also shows that a majority of 35.8 per cent of the work force are G.C.E (Advanced Level) qualified while one in every four employees (26.1 per cent) has a degree or a higher qualification. 

The Census also captures the levels of computer literacy among public and semi government sector employees which revealed that 62.7 percent of the employees are capable of performing some task using a desktop/ laptop/ tablet computer or a smart phone while one in  every two employees use internet.

The Preliminary report of the Census of Public and Semi Government Sector Employment 2016 can be downloaded from the DCS website, www.statistics.gov.lk.Census department

president SAARCThe Fourth South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference commenced under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena in Colombo yesterday (20). The Conference will continue until February 23 in Colombo and Kandy.

The Conference is an annual learning, knowledge and experience sharing, and networking event for the Heads of Public Procurement Agency or Authority of the eight member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC); it is a follow up on the three other Conferences held in Kathmandu, Nepal in April 2011, Islamabad, Pakistan in March 2014, and in Dhaka, Bangladesh in November 2015.
Understanding the importance of moving towards an e-procurement system the Government has decided to hold the Fourth Conference in Sri Lanka and the Conference is being hosted by the Department of Public Finance, Ministry of Finance, and is cosponsored by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and Islamic Development Bank.
Holding this conference in Sri Lanka will pave the way to achieve the Government’s objectives of sustainable development and making a new economic and social environment for the betterment of the country and the people.
The e-Procurement System will enable to minimize bribery and corruption and it will also make the public finance management more efficient and transparent.
Bangladesh handed over the presidency of South Asia Regional Public Procurement Conference to Sri Lanka. The Former President of the Conference, Mr. Faruque Hossain handed over the presidency to Mr. Mr. Algama, Director General of the Department of Public Finance.
Minister of Finance,Ravi Karunanayake, Finance Ministry Secretary, R.H.S. Samaratunge, Head of the Islamic Development Bank, Issa Midi lde, the Country Director of the Asian Development Bank for Sri Lanka, Sri Widowati and dignitaries also participated.

01. Sugar development project in Bibila (Document No – 07)

Above project is proposed to be implemented providing lands for farmers living in Rambaken Oya Special Economic Region of Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, for uplifting their living status. The project is to be implemented as a public private partnership with a total foreign investment of USD 152.25 million and it expects to produce 80,000 MT of sugar annually. It has planned to provide 1000 direct employment opportunities and about 75000 indirect employment opportunities. It has also been planned to produce animal food and organic fertilizer as by-products and to implement a subproject for generating 20Mw electricity. The proposal presented for implementing this project by including Bibila and Medagama Divisional Secretary's Divisions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Attorney-At-Law Thusira Melawwethanthri was handed over his letter of appointment as the new Director General of the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation yesterday (15th Feb.) by the Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake at the Ministry Premises.dg

President Maithripala Sirisena presented service pension benefit letters to the retired differently abled War Heroes who volunteered to retire before completing their 12 year mandatory service period at the Presidential Secretariat, today (14).

The pension benefits were given to 2,261 tri forces personnel and to 136 police officers and marking the event the President symbolically presented the pension benefit letters to 150 war heroes.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickramesinghe on an invitation of the Government of Australia will leave for Australia today for a four-day official visit.

The Prime Minister’s visit will also signify the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Australia.


“I will take every step to make the country prosperous in agriculture by enhancing the farmers’ economy, as a President whose roots are of a agricultural family”, says President Maithripala Sirisena.
“I will take measures to solve the water issue by filling the large tanks with blue water so that the farmers will not face any shortages for irrigating their lands”, he added.
The President was speaking at the public meeting held today (Feb. 13) at the playground of Welamitiyawa Vidyalaya in Galewela, after launching the Wayamba Ela Project; the giant development project to supply water to Wayamba.

All preparations are underway to celebrate the 69th Independence day on the theme of unity. 
 
The Ministry of Home Affairs requests all public institutions, private institutions, shops, houses and cars to hoist the National flag for one week from 1st February 2017 in commemoration of the 69th Independence day. 
 

The 69th Independence day will be celebrated on February 4th at the Galle face green on the theme National Unity. The celebrations will start at 8 a.m. and finish at 12 p.m.


In parallel, 23 National day celebrations will be held in the districts with the patronage of the District Secretaries, Chief Ministers and peoples representatives. In addition, Independence Day celebrations will also be held at high commissions around the world on 4th February.


The Ministry of Internal Affairs requests to hoist the national flag at all public institutions, homes and vehicles to show the importance of all people in the country living in peace.


On February 2nd an all night pirith ceremony will be held at the Independence Hall at Independence square while an almsgiving will be offered at the Vajiraramaya, Bambalapitiya.


On 4th February Buddhist religious observances will be held at Polwatta Dharmakeerthiyaramaya, Colombo at 6.30 a.m, a Hindu pooja will be held at Sri Ponnambalawaneswaran Kovil , Colombo 13 at 6.30 a.m, Islamic prayers at Grand Mosque Colombo 12 at 6 a.m, A catholic service at St. Theresa Church Thimbirigasyaya at 6.30am as well as a Christian service at the St. Luke Church Borella at 6.30am.


Buddhist religious observance will be held under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe , Minister of Justice and Buddha Sasana Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, all the Colombo district ministers, and MPs.


Hindu religious observances will be held under the patronage of minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development Palani Digambaram, Minister of National Co-existence, Dialogue and Official Languages Mano Ganeshan, State Minister for Child Affairs Vijayakala Maheswaran and State Minister of Education V. Rathakrishnan.


Islam Religious observances will be held under the patronage of Minister of Posts Postal Services and Muslim Religious Affairs M.H.A. Haleem, Minister of Public Enterprise Development Kabir Hashim, Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishard Bathiudeen, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply Rauf Hakeem, Minister of Local Government and Provincial Councils Faizer Mustapha and State Minister National Integration and Reconciliation A.H.M. Fowzie.


Roman Catholic religious observances will be held under the patronage of Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs John Amaratunga.


Christian religious observances will be held under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Public Enterprise Development Eran Wickramarathna.


Floral tributes will be offered at the statue of late D.S. Senanayake by Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, State Ministers Ruwan Wijayawardena, Wasantha Senanayake, Buddhika Pathirana, Former minister Rukman Senanayake, Southern Province Governor Dr. Hemakumara Nanayakkara, Chief Secretary of D.S. Senanayake Memorial Committee Dr I. Dissanayake and Municipal Commissioner Colombo Municipal Council A.K. Anura.

A felicitation ceremony to pay tribute to veteran actress Swarna Mallawarachchi ‘s contribution to the country’s cinema during the last 50 years, was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Tarangani Hall in National Film Cooperation recently.


The President presented a felicitation award to the actress Swarna Mallawarachchi in recognition of her service to the Sri Lankan film industry during the last 50 year period.


The actress presented a commemorative book titled “Cinamawe Gehaniya Swarna Mallawarachchi Panas Wasaraka Cinamabhimanaya” to the President in the event.


Addressing the gathering, President Sirisena said that Mrs. Swarna Mallawarachchi is a significant cinematic icon who won the love of the Sri Lankan fans as well as the international fans. During the ceremony the President wished strength and courage to actress Swarna Mallawarachchi to render further service to the development of the Sri Lankan cinema.


Minister of Mass Media, Gayantha Karunathilake, Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranavitana, dignitaries including film directors, artistes participated in this event.

01.    Purchase of equipments required for Sri Lankan Army troops deployed in peace keeping operations in Mali (Document No – 09)

Sri Lanka has agreed to deploy a troop of army personal in peacekeeping process in Mali, and the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into a loan agreement with the Russian Bank SBERBANK, to fund the purchasing of equipments required for the said troops, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Construction of luxury tourist camps adjacent to Yala National park (Document No – 11)

A land of 07 acres belonged to Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority in Palatupana area has been allocated on the above purpose to the Wild Coast Lodge (PVT) Ltd in 2012. The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to provide an additional land of 155 perches on 50 year lease basis to the said company to continue the project and to obtain the approval of the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resources Management and the recommendations of Department of Wildlife Conservation in continuing with construction works, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Handing over the Matale Railway stores to Matale Municipal Council on lease basis to build a Public Market (Document No – 12)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to hand over the Matale Railway stores to Matale Municipal Council on lease basis to build a Public Market for a period of 5 years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Implementation of E-Friends II Revolving Fund (Document No – 16)


The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to implement the above fund using balance funds which were credited to the revolving fund under the 'E-Friends Project – II Loan Scheme' implemented from 2004 to 2010 under the assistance of JICA and Rs. 1300 million allocated by the General Treasury for 2017 in this regard, and to prepare a method to recognize eligible beneficiaries to assure that loans are granted to such beneficiaries to achieve the objectives of this project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Development project in Northern Province (Document No – 20)


It has become a priority need to improve fisheries infrastructure in Northern Province which was affected by conflicts for a long period and accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to implement the above project under the assistance of Asian Development Bank, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Importation of qualitative seeds to improve the productivity of domestic big onion production (Document No – 21)

About 65%-70% of country's onion requirement is imported annually and the National Food Production Programme (2016-2018) has given priority to increase onion production. The annual onion seed requirement is about 40,000 kg but only half of them are produced in Sri Lanka. The rest is imported by private importers and there have been issues reported regarding their quality. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to import 6,200 kg of qualitative onion seeds from National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation in India, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


07.    Award of land ownership and suitable houses to beneficiaries of Hautiville Housing Project under the concept of creating new villages (Document No – 27)


The above project has been implemented in Nuwara Eliya District for providing a better living standard for estate communities and the proposal made by Hon. U. Palani Thigambaram, Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development, to issue title certificates for 71 beneficiaries of the project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Integrated Road investment programme phase - 2 (Document No – 34)

The ADB has agreed to provide funds to improve about 4000 km of roads in North, Eastern, Uva and Western Provinces. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to proceed with the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Award of two contract packages for civil works under the landslide Disaster protection project of national road network (Document No – 35)

Above project is to be implemented under the funds provided by JICA and the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the contracts for civil works related to activities in 16 places in Central, Uva and Sabaragamuwa Provinces under contract packages 01 and 02 of the above project as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Relocation of Pettah manning Market in Peliyagoda area – Contrition of pile foundation (Document No – 37)

The development of land for the relocation has been finalized and the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to award the contract for the construction of Piling Foundation as its next step as per the recommendations made by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


11.    Sale of paddy stocks of the Paddy Marketing board to address the rice deficit in the market (Document No – 40)

The cabinet has noted that the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs has taken steps to issue 90,958 MT of paddy of the Paddy Marketing Board in district level to private paddy mill owners and Lanka Sathosa to be processed into rice. It further considered that though Lanka Sathosa has already processed the paddy and a kilogram of rice is being traded through Sathosa outlets at Rs. 76/-, private mill owners have still not issued them to the market. The Cabinet has decided to appoint a Cabinet Subcommittee to issue the rest stocks in a suitable method and to take action against mill owners who have omitted the issuing of rice stocks to the market.

The Cabinet of Ministers also considered that Government of Indonesia will donate 10,000 MT of rice to Sri Lanka as to a request made by H.E. the President and it will arrive in Sri Lanka soon. It also paid attention to the need of importing rice from neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam unless the price of rice is reduced.


12.    Memorandum of Understanding between Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on diplomatic consultation (Document No – 41)

The proposal made by Hon. Harsha de Silva, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the above MoU between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of two governments during the upcoming visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs Mangala Samaraweera to Ethiopia, with the objective of strengthening and developing friendship and cooperation between the two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Digital summit to be held in Sri Lanka (Document No – 42)


It has been planned to hold a Digital Summit in Sri Lanka on 23rd and 24th March 2017 with the view of making Sri Lanka a global digital hub. It is expected that experts and Executive Officers of prominent companies such as Facebook, Google, Social Capital and Infosys will participate in this event. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to proceed with the activities related to this summit, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    Report on the present status of Gin Nilwala diversion project (Document No – 44)

The General Treasury has released Rs. 3,549 million for the above project from 01-01-2015 to 07-01-2015. The Cabinet Subcommittee appointed to investigate in this regard has observed that paying such a large amount in the beginning of a financial year is abnormal and the recommendation made by the said Cabinet Subcommittee to instruct Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division to launch an investigation in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The extraordinary Gazette announcing the date of enforcement of the Right to Information Act as February 3 has been published. The gazette had been published last Friday.

Under the RTI Act, ministries, government departments, public corporations and private organisations carrying out public functions or services, local authorities, any department, authority or institution established by a provincial council, non-governmental organisations that are substantially funded by the government, higher educational institutions including private universities and professional institutions recognised by the state, all courts, tribunals and institutions created for the administration of justice should provide access to information and shall maintain records.

The introduction of the RTI was a key pledge of the government. The government when introducing the 19th Amendment to the Constitution recognised the Right to Information as a fundamental right. Parliament unanimously passed the Right to Information Act on June 24, 2016.

The Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Ministry is vested with the task of implementing the RTI Act.

Information officers are to be appointed to all state establishments to carry out the functions related to dissemination of information.

01.    Implementation of guidelines for maintaining buildings of public institutions as environmental friendly green buildings (Document No – 09)

The cabinet has already approved the guidelines for maintaining buildings in public institutions as green buildings. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to obtain the approval for comprehensive guidelines that include the method of measuring the betterment on environment and the institutional structure required for its implementation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Increasing the awareness of teachers on environmental studies according to the new syllabus (Document No – 10)


As per the various conventions adopted by politicians and environmental organizations environmentally sensitive sections have been introduced to the new syllabus of science subject from grade 6 to 11, with the view of educating students on facing future challenges of climate change. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement a programme to increase the awareness of teachers on environment studies for changing the attitudes of school children regarding the environment, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Providing facilities for medical faculties of the Rajarata and Eastern Universities and Allied health Science faculty of the University of Peradeniya (Document No – 11)

Providing necessary medical equipment for above faculties is a priority need to uplift their standards. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to hold discussions and to enter into an agreement for obtaining a loan at concessionary conditions from a Bank in Austria on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Agreement between Sri Lanka and Australia for development cooperation (Document No – 12)


The two countries hold development cooperation for more than 60 years and a memorandum of understanding has been signed in this regard in 1998. Considering the policy changes occurred in two countries the MoU has been prepared again and, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to sign the said agreement, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Obtaining additional funds required for Kalu Ganga Development Project (Document No – 13)

The project is currently being implemented under the funding of Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arabic Economic Development, Opec Fund for International Development, and is scheduled to be completed at 2018. USD 89.85 from the total cost of USD 140.35 has been provided by development partners and about USD 50.5 has to be obtained. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into an agreement with the Kuwait Fund for Arabic Economic Development for obtaining another loan of USD 16.5 for the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Project for developing market facilities in tourism field (Document No – 15)

The government of Australia has presented a proposal to implement the above project investing 12 million Australian Dollars within 04 years. The project aims to attract more international customers related to tourism industry. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to enter into an agreement with the Government of Australia with the financial assistance of Australia for implementing the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Puttalam Integrated tourism development plan (Document No – 16)

Puttalam and Kalpitiya are with a greater potential of developing as a main tourism zone in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to implement a project under the Puttalam Integrated tourism Development Plan within the two years from 2017 to 2018 with the view of developing this area as a sustainable tourism zone, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Hosting the 10th Air Services Negotiation Event of the International Civil Aviation Organization (Document No – 18)

Above organization has been established as a UN representative agency for management and administration of International Civil Aviation Convention which was signed in 1944. Sri Lanka has obtained its membership in 1948. Conference on Aviation Negotiations has been held annually by this organization for providing a platform for all member states to enter into new negotiations in aviation field. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to host the above convention in 2017 to be held in Sri Lanka from 04-08 December 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Allocation of a block of land for the embassy of Palestine (Document No – 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to allocate a land for the Embassy of Palestine for constructing a permanent building in Hewa Avenue, Colombo 07, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    MoU between Academy of Labour and social Relations of the Russian Federation and the National Institute of Labour studies, Sri Lanka (Document No – 21)

National Institute of Labour Studies is operating for implementing researches and training programmes for widening the labour studies field and it expects to keep cooperation with foreign institutions and organizations to achieve its goals. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, to enter in to a MoU between NILS of Sri Lanka and Academy of Labour and social Relations of Russia, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    MoU between UAE and Sri Lanka for cooperation in Higher Education Field (Document No – 22)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education – Higher Education in United Arab Emirates and Ministry of Higher Education and Highways to strengthen the cooperation in higher education field, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Agreement between Sri Lanka and Iran on Science, technology and innovation (Document No – 24)

The proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to sign the above agreement during his oncoming official visit to Iran from 14 to 17 January 2017 for strengthening the ties related to above fields, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Increasing the annual grant for Sri Lanka Cancer Society (Document No – 27)

Sri Lanka Cancer Society is a volunteer organization established in 1948 to help cancer patients with the contributions of various donors. Its hospice "Shantha Sewana" and "Bandaranaike Memorial Cancer Home provides free of charge treatments for cancer patients. Considering the service rendered by the said society as a volunteer organization, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to increase the annual grant provided to them from Rs. 550,000 to Rs. 2,000,000, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    Amendment to the prevention of mosquito breeding act no. 11 of 2007 (Document No – 28)

Dengue has become a major issue in Sri Lanka and the most fruitful step to face this challenge is to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes. Above act provides the legal framework in this regard and the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft amendments to the said act for rectifying deficiencies currently prevailing in the act, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Establishment of Public private partnership division (Document No – 31)

The government has paid its attention to implement its priority projects with public private partnership. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance and Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies & International Trade to setup a separate division under the Ministry of Finance with experts in this field to support and advice the relevant ministry on selection, implementation and management of such projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


16.    Providing a land for NIBM to build a new building (Document No – 32)

Currently about 10,500 students participate in courses conducted by National Institute of Business Management in Colombo 07 and the demand for such courses are gradually increasing. However, there is no sufficient space to cater this demand. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, and Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to grant a land of 45 perches belonging to the Ministry of Agriculture and located nearby, to the NIBM, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    Allocation of a land in Denzil Kobbekaduwa Mawatha, Battaramulla to the Department of Divineguma Development (Document No – 36)

The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to release the above land belongs to the Urban Development Authority for building the Head Office of the Department of Divineguma Development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    Implementation of municipal solid waste processing projects in Karadiyana and Muthurajawela areas (Document No – 37)

It has been proposed to implement two projects for generating electricity through waste using the technology of incineration. They are to be implemented under public private partnership and accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to award relevant contracts for investors selected through government's procurement procedure, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Development and improvement of Godigamuwa Tank in Matale District (Document No – 40)

The Godigamuwa Tank has a capacity of about 45 acres feet. The proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to develop and improve the said tank to 202 acres feet at a cost of Rs. 165.9 million for providing irrigation water for 162 families in Dambagalla, Bambaragahawatta, and Halambagahawatta villages in Navula area, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.    Amendment of Irrigation Ordinance No. 32 of 1946 to suit timely necessities (Document No – 41)

Department of Irrigation manages all irrigation related activities in the whole island except Mahaweli area. To perform that responsibility effectively the joint proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, and Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to amend the above ordinance to suit present day needs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.    Extension of expired agreement periods of the furnace oil power plants from six (06) months (Document No – 48)

The proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to extend the agreement periods with following power plants to face the possible electricity deficit caused by drought, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers and approved for six (06) months.


    Ace Power Plant Embilipitiya
    Ace Power Plant Matara
    Heladhanavi Power Plant Puttalam

22.    Procurement of 60 Mw of supplementary power for 06 month period to ensure uninterrupted power supply (Document No – 50)

According to recommendations made by Public Utilities Commission on the above matter, more generation capacity should be added to the national grid. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to purchase generators of about 60 Mw through Open International Competitive Bidding, to be used in short term generation for about six (06) months, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.    Providing relief under emergency disaster conditions to house holders adversely affected by the water leaks of the main tunnel of the Uma Oya Multipurpose development project (Document No – 51)

The Uma Oya project is implemented to provide water for Kirindi Oya basin. A leakage in its main tunnel caused damages to houses and wells have dried in 08 Grama Niladhari Divisions. To make this situation to normalcy, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to provide immediate reliefs such as building new houses for completely damaged houses and provide water supply for free of charge, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.    Implementation of government borrowing programme 2017 (Document No – 53)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to issue Sri Lanka Development Bonds of USD 1,500 million to strengthen the government borrowing programme 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25.    Amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure (Special Provisions) Act No. 2 of 2013 (Document No – 54)

A bill to provide provisions for securing the rights of detainees was drafted in 2016 but with comments of some interested parties it was not tabled in parliament and instead a new committee was appointed with representatives of Sri Lanka Bar Association and Attorney Generals Department to prepare a more acceptable draft. According to its recommendations, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft legislations in this regard and publish in the gazette and subsequently to present it in parliament for approval, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

26.    Policy and Legal framework relating to the proposed counter terrorism Act of Sri Lanka (Document No – 56)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to forward the amended policy and legal framework for introduction of a new counter terrorism law to the observations of the Sectoral Oversight Committee on National Security and to initiate action to draft suitable legislation with regard to national security of Sri Lanka, Unity and territorial integrity, prevention of terrorism and procedure to be followed in terrorism related offences, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

President Maithripala Sirisena opted for a pragmatic approach to the concept and asked that his government do their best to adhere to principles of good governance amidst challenging circumstances.

“When you take the current government, some people look at it and say ‘Yahapalanaya’ with pride while some say it with ridicule,” the President said. President Sirisena was speaking at the launching of the book ‘Buddhist Ideals of Good Governance’ at Waters Edge, Battaramulla yesterday.

“We all know that in Buddhism, we have the five precepts and the eight precepts and there are many Buddhists in this country and the world over. But, the problem is how many of these Buddhists by name live up to the true philosophy.?

Many take up the five precepts but how many actually keep it?,”the President said.

“This is similar to the concept of Yahpalanaya. How many truly live by the principles of Yahapalanaya. When you talk of the principles of good governance as prescribed by The

Buddha, at times, we think can we even pragmatically achieve one percent of that?,”the President asked.

“Having completed two years in office, the people in this country now have some measure of how much of good governance the President, the Prime Minister and the ministers have adhered to.

“To implement the concept of Good Governance in a society which has gone far beyond it is no easy task. To implement this within a society which functioned under politics, ways of thinking and alternative pathways to that of good governance is a challenge- similar to the keeping to the

five precepts”, the President further explained.

The President added,“The only solution we have is to do our best as we know how”.

Ven.Dr.Tampalawela Dhammaratana Thera who is a co-author of the book also handed over a concept paper to establish an International Institute of Good Governance in Sri Lanka and

asked that the President make it a place to train future politicians and civil servants.

“Good governance can be the best gift we can bestow from our Buddhist heritage this year. It should be the hand book that future leaders should follow,” the Thera said.

“The Buddha instructed many rulers without being a politician himself. The Buddha asked that they practice civilised human behaviour in politics thereby ratifying good governance policies and advocating righteous administration,”Ven. Dr. Dhammaratana Thera said.

The other co-author of the book Prof.Francois Chenet stressed that with the future of politics predicted to be more unstable, it was necessary for leaders to ensure that societies are more open, equitable and transparent.

“It is always the ruler that makes the age, he creates the environment for change,”the Professor said. 

Minister of Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister Wijayadasa Rajapaksha, MInister Arjuna ranathunga, Deputy minister Karunarathna Paranawithana and Media Secretary Nimal Bopage participated in this event.

Right to Information (RTI) Act would be fully operative from February 3 enabling people to obtain any information from the government, Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka said yesterday.

The Minister said this at a special meeting with Information Commission Chairman, committee members and media ministry members at the parliament premises yesterday. “As promised by this government to bring in the Right to Information (RTI) Act before it came to power it had taken steps to present the Right to Information Bill in Parliament on August 4 last year and it was passed with a massive 255 votes,” the Minister said.

Accordingly, every citizen in the country will get their right to know the information they need from any government institution. A Five members Right to Information (RTI) Commission was formed under former Ministry Secretary Mahinda Gammanpila, who was appointed as the Chairman of the Commission by the President on last September. S. G. Punchihewa, T. Selvakumaran, Salim Marzook and Kishali Pinto Jayawardhana had been appointed as the members of the Commission. However, some information prejudicial to the national security, national economy, examinations, foreign trade agreement negotiations, personnel details, details of medical reports would have restrictions, the Minister said. “For example you can’t demand the breakdown of arms and ammunition of the Army. You can't ask how many multi- barrel rockets the army has etc. Those details are not supposed to be revealed. You can’t ask a doctor about his treatment for a particular patient. That is the privacy of the patient. You can’t ask premature disclosure of foreign trade agreements,” he said. People can obtain their details in three languages, the minister said. 

President Maithripala Sirisena has instructed the relevant officials to take immediate steps to correctly implement the existing laws to prevent the abuse of intellectual property rights as well as to implement new rules and regulations if the existing laws are not adequate.


The President gave these instructions at a discussion he 09 th Jan. at the Presidential Secretariat with a group of artistes and relevant officials. During the meeting, attention was drawn towards proper payment of royalty to the writers and protecting the copyrights.


The President further said that at present the rules and regulations on intellectual property rights properly enforced in every developed country and we also should pay our attention in this regard.


President Sirisena directed the Ministry of Mass Media to implement a new program to educate the relevant sectors about the rules and regulations related to the intellectual property rights and the royalty.


The ideas and suggestions were presented for a qualitative media and regarding the steps that should be taken to prevent the damage caused to the society through indecent visuals.


Minister of Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka, Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya and artistes participated in this meeting.

The National Film Cooperation of Sri Lanka has scheduled a number of programs to celebrate the 69th anniversary of Sri Lankan Cinema and the 44th anniversary of the National Film Cooperation which falls on 21 January this year .

The main event will be held on January 21 at 9.00 a.m at the National Film Cooperation under the patronage of the Minister of Parliament reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake and the Chairman of the National Film Cooperation Deepal Chandrarathne.

At the event, Pushpajith Niroshan Jayasinghe's book titled "Jalayen yata wu Lokaya" (A translation of The Cinema of David Lynch) will be launched. Also the late Prime Minister Sirimawo Bandaranayaie who is the founder of National Film Cooperation will be honoured at the event. An all night Pirith chanting ceremony will be held on 21st night to invoke blessings on the government and the people of the country.

Parallel to the main function a film show will be held from January 17-20 at the Film Co-operation cinema hall in Colombo 07. Also a workshop to develop a zest for cinema will take place on January 19 at 09.00.a.m. at the Film Co-operation premises for school and University students. The resource personnel will be University lecturers and experts in the cinema field.

Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake recently participated at the award presenting ceremony of Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation.

Twenty-year service awards and golden awards were presented to the SLRC members at this occasion appreciating their service.

Chairman of SLRC Ravi Jayawardhane also participated.

The government has neither drafted any agreement nor any committee report has been released on the Hambantota Harbour and proposed industrial zone, President Maithripala Sirisena said yesterday.He said the government will not sign agreements with any foreign country or institution that would be detrimental to Sri Lanka’s heritage and dignity. The President said the government will ensure the highest level of transparency when bilateral agreements are signed with foreign nations and institutions.

He added that trhe draft of such agreements would be referred to the Attorney General, Cabinet of Ministers and Parliament for approval before they are ratified by the government. President Sirisena was addressing the 50th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation yesterday.

“The people of this country placed immense confidence in me by electing me to the post of Presidency and I will leave no room for the breach of public confidence,” he said. He said certain elements were striving to overthrow the government when it was going forward with more dedication and commitment on a new programme in 2017. “Nobody is allowed to overthrow this government illegally and in contravention of the Constitution till 2020 without a people’s mandate,” he said. “It is the responsibility of those who love this country to allow the government to carry out their activities freely irrespective of the political party they believe,” he said. He stressed that there is no room for power crazy elements to achieve their petty political gains again.

The President requested the people to refrain from propagating false information and unite to rebuild the country through constructive criticism.

President Sirisena opened the administrative complex and refurbished studios of the Corporation. A new postage stamp was also issued to mark the SLBC’s 50th anniversary. Ven. Ittepane Dhammalankara Thera, Ven. Kotugoda Dhammawasa Thera, Media and Parliamentary Reforms Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka ,Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranavithana and media secretary Nimal Bopage were present.

This year the government is starting a development program with the leadership of the President and Prime Minister, alleviate poverty, reforms in the media sector and establishing of regulatory commissions will also be done said Parliamentary reforms and Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka.
 
He made these comments addressing the staff after attending religious observances 2nd of January.
 
We have undertaken to do a major transformation in the media sector by getting the views of the public until January 31 and with the progress of the institutions under the Media ministry we will leapfrog this year said the minister.
 
People spend most of their time out of home at the office therefore they should be happy at office. We as ministers have created an environment without interferences to work happily. 
 
Deputy Minister of Parliamentry Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathna Paranavithana also participated.

The foundation stone will be laid today in Horana for the Sri Lanka’s biggest tyre factory which is to be constructed at the BOI industrial zone.

The foundation stone will be laid by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe under the directive of President Maithripala Sirisena.

The entire investment of the project is Rs. 11.25 billion.

01.  Implementation of the national biodiversity strategic action plan – 2016-2022 (Document No – 07)

Sri Lanka has signed the Convention on Biological Diversity prepared in line with the Earth Summit held in 1992 and accordingly Sri Lanka has implemented numerous programmes in this regard from 1992 to 2016. Moreover, the National Biological Intellectual Committee has prepared a National Action Plan that includes numerous programmes to be implemented within 2016 to 2022. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement the above action plan prepared with the objectives of conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of biological resources, and equal distribution of its benefits, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.  Regulation of Tourist Hotels (Document No – 08)

The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to present the directions, orders, and rules in parliament for approval which were published by the Minister in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 1963/28 dated 20-04-2016 under the Tourism Act No. 38 of 2005 with regard to the matters of direction of minimum capacities and facilities for classification of tourist hotels from 1 star to 5 star, decide on licence fees, making provisions regarding the discipline maintained by tourist hotels, registration and issuing licence for tourist hotels, and decide on minimum space and facilities in a tourist hotel, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.  Declaration of national parks, new wildlife sanctuaries and amendment of borders of declared sanctuaries (Document No – 09)

Priority should be given to protect natural forests, wetlands and wildlife in Sri Lanka and to minimize the destruction of animal shelters risked by various illegal activities. Accordingly, the following proposals made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

  • Declare the forest area belongs to Kala Wewa and Balalu Wewa in Kahalla – Pallekele Sanctuary in Anuradhapura and Kurunegala Districts as 'Kala Wewa National Park' and declare its rest forest area in Kurunegala District as 'Kahalla – Pallekele National Park'.
  • Declare 'Kayankarni Marine Natural Reservation' covering the marine area in Pasikuda in Trincomalee District.
  • Declare the forest area around the Kotuattawala Wewa in Nikaweratiya Divisional Secretary's Division in Kurunegala District as the 'Kotuattawala Sanctuary'.
  • Declare Akurala wetland in Hikkaduwa Divisional Secretary's Division in Galle District as 'Akurala Wildlife Sanctuary'.
  • Declare Kodigahakanda forest in Horana Divisional Secretary's Division in Kaluthara District as 'Kodigahakanda Wildlife Sanctuary'.
  • Declare the marine area including the coral reefs which the Kuda Ravana and Maha Ravana lighthouses are located as 'Kuda Ravana Maha Ravana Marine Sanctuary'.
  • Amendment of borders of Madu Ganga Sanctuary in Balapitiya Divisional Secretary's Division in Galle District.

04.  Establishment of National science technology and innovation coordinating authority (Document No – 12)

The proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to establish the above authority to facilitate the coordination of research and development activities administered by 21 line ministries and about 80 research institutions and research centres, with the view of gaining the maximum outcome of investments made on science, technology and innovation for the socio-economic development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.  Proposed National Elderly health policy and strategies (Document No – 14)

Increase in elder population due to increase of expected lifetime and decrease in childbirths is a timely issue faced by Sri Lanka. It is expected that elder population over 60 years of age which is currently 12% will increase to 16% in 2020 and to 29% in 2050. It is essential to properly direct the elderly healthcare services to face this situation. Accordingly, the National Elderly Health Policy presented by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.  National policy on health information (Document No – 15)

When essential health services, prevention and treatment services are provided by government hospitals diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of outcomes, administrative decisions, planning and supervision should be duly performed. Availability of an accurate, reliable and easily accessible, cost effective information system is very helpful in this regard. The health information system in Sri Lanka is mainly consisted of government related information and information of private healthcare providers will be added in the future. Moreover, the existing paper based method of obtaining data should be improved with modern information technology. Accordingly, the National Policy on Health Information prepared according to national health services policy and presented by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.  Development of infrastructures in University of Vocational Technology, Ratmalana (Document No – 17)

About 1,600 students are reading for the Bachelor of Technology degree in the above university and applicants are increasing gradually for thus course. Most of the students are from remote areas and there are no sufficient hostel facilities and a limited space is available in the existing canteen. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to construct a new hostel for providing accommodation for 600 students and a canteen with a seating capacity of 300 and a workshop at an estimated cost of Rs. 927.34 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.  Incorporation of Ceylon German Technical Training Institute (CGTTI) (Document No – 18)

The CGTTI is under the purview of the Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training and considering the requirement of incorporating it as a separate legal institution the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute Bill has been prepared. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to publish the above bill in gazette and subsequently present in parliament for approval, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.  Upgrading the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel to a degree offering institute (Document No – 20)

The above institute is currently engaged in trainings, quality checking, and provision of industrial and consultancy services in the textile and apparel industry in Sri Lanka. Currently, about 4500 students are following short term and long term courses for offering certificates and diplomas. It has been proposed to upgrade this institution to a degree offering institution with the association of Lovely Professional University in Punjab, India for developing capabilities of students to face the competition in the job market. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel and Lovely Professional University in Punjab, India, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.  Development of sacred place of Sri Arahantha Maliyadewa Raja Maha Vihara in Vattarama (Document No – 23)

The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to allocate additional funds of Rs. 35 million to complete development of sacred place if Sri Arahantha Maliyadewa Raja Maha Vihara in Vattarama, in the Galigamuwa Divisional Secretary's Division in Kegalle District where the public Vesak Festival in year 2017 is to be held, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.  Recommendations of the Cabinet Subcommittee on the proposed registration of electors (special Provisions) bill (Document No – 24)

Implementation of the Registration of Electors (Special Provisions) Act No. 27 of 2013 has terminated on 19 June 2015 which provided for securing the voting rights of displaced persons who dwelled in temporary settlements due to conflict situations in northern part of the country. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to publish the proposed Registration of Electors (Special Provisions) bill in gazette and subsequently present in parliament for approval which was prepared according to the recommendations of the above Cabinet Subcommittee to extend its validity period for further 04 years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.  Rehabilitation of the Elphinstone Theatre (Document No – 33)

The Elphinstone Theatre which was constructed in 1925 and acquired by the government in 1988 is currently administrated by the Tower Hall Theatre Foundation. It is currently being rehabilitated with a seating capacity of 600 and it will be opened for public within the first quarter of 2017. The proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to obtain required additional allocations to complete its renovations, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.  Construction of Value Addition Centres for vegetable and fruits in Sri Lanka (Document No – 36)

The government has taken steps to facilitate local farmers and entrepreneurs to export vegetables and fruits targeting foreign market to conform to standards and requirements of foreign countries. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Daya Gamage, Minister of Primary Industries, to establish 03 Value Addition Centres adjacent to farms with public-private partnership with processing, packing and storing facilities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.  Greater Colombo Water and wastewater management improvement investment programme – project 2 (Document No – 40)

Above project is implemented with the funds provided by Asian Development Bank and Agence Francaise de Developpement. The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the contract of construction of underground reservoir in Gothatuwa with a capacity of 15000 m3, Gothatuwa pumping station and booster pump station and supply and laying of 1200 mm DI pipes under the above project as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.  Construction of Siyambalanduwa Water Supply Scheme (Document No – 41)

Above project will supply safe drinking water for 8450 houses in Siyambalanduwa and Muthukandiya areas in Monaragala District. The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the contract for construction of this water supply scheme as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.  'Let's Protect Children' National Programme 2017-2019 (Document No – 44)

The government has identified the need of protecting children from various threats prevailed in the country. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to implement the 'Let's Protect Children' National Programme within the 03 years of 2017-2019 according to the action plan prepared covering all aspects under the three (03) main sections of prevention of abuse/abduction, health, nutrition and welfare, and personality development, education and life skills, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.  "Balagathu Sri Lankavak" Development plans of the Government (Document No – 45)

The publication titled "Balagathu Sri Lankavak" prepared to increase the awareness of public and public officers regarding economic development plans of the government and the progress gained in implementation of these plans was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The ground breaking ceremony of the vehicle assembly plant of the German auto maker Volkswagen was held in Kuliyapitiya yesterday under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Volkswagen is the second largest car maker in the world. The company will initially assemble vehicles in the 1000cc to 2000cc category and these vehicles will be diesel powered and include passenger cars, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), Multi Utility Vehicles (MUV) or commercial vehicles.

Volkswagen AG’s local joint venture partner is Senok Automobiles and the total investment will be US$ 26.5 million.

The project in addition to bringing investor confidence for Sri Lanka and FDI’s will also bring in advanced German automobile technology into the country and create job opportunities for the local youth.

Volkswagen which rose from the ashes of World War II was one of the firms that contributed to the so-called German economic miracle of the country’s social market economy.

The company is best known for iconic models such as Beetle, Golf and Passat.

The year 2017 dawns with new hopes of prosperity, coexistence and reconciliation in our hearts. The twenty two million people of Sri Lanka look forward to an era of sustainability with a determination to alleviate poverty in all its forms.


It is imperative that we overcome the challenges ahead of us. The progress of the human race was pioneered by people who faced challenges with confidence, utmost courage and determination amidst obstacles. Our goals could be achieved if we manage our work efficiently and productively, and do the right thing at the right time with unwavering commitment to serve the greater good.


The adverse effects of climate change show us the imperative need to be prepared for weather uncertainties. We have to be determined this year to live with nature and not above or against it.


I wish all of you a prosperous new year in which the fruits of progress are distributed fairly and the aspirations of the people are fulfilled.

Maithripala Sirisena                            
President

The New Year dawns as the Government of Good Governance marks two years in office. During these two years, we have achieved many milestones.

Yet undoubtedly, much needs to be done in our pursuit to be a fully fledged democracy that is also economically sound and socially empowered.

The abolition of the 18th Amendment which cast a shadow of dictatorship and suppressed democracy has been one of our greatest achievements during these two years. We have also been able to transform the perceptions the international community held with regard to Sri Lanka, enabling the country to build strategic relationships with other countries.

Dealing effectively with crimes against humanity, halting the wastage of public funds, minimizing corruption, establishing relevant commissions, finalizing the right to information act, ensuring freedom for all, easing the cost of living as loans overburden the economy, creating political stability while laying the foundation for economic development are among the achievements of the Government during these two years.

As economic activity increases under Good Governance towards making Sri Lanka a viable destination, the Government is focused on empowering the people while encouraging co-existence and harmony between all communities.

In the same vein, the Government seeks the co-operation of all Sri Lankans in defeating agendas that are aimed at disrupting Sri Lanka's course set for success.

Let this New Year be the one to usher in greater change, a greater vision and prosperity to all Sri Lankans.

Happy New Year!


Ranil Wickremesinghe
Prime Minister

01.    National Programme on prevention of chronic kidney disease – 2016-2018 (Document No – 05)

The Chronic Kidney Disease which became a major non communicable disease in Sri Lanka recently has spread widely in North Central, Uva, North-western, Northern, Central, and Eastern provinces and considerable number of patients have been reported in Southern Province. This disease has caused many social and economic issues. To overcome this situation implementation of a prevention programme, early identification of patients, treatment, welfare of patients and their families, and provision of pure drinking water should be continued. In this regard, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to obtain funds for the national plan on prevention of chronic kidney disease implemented in 2016-2018 by the Presidential Task Force on Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Declaration of a national integration and reconciliation week (Document No – 11)

The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of National Integration and Reconciliation, to declare the week from 08th to 14th January each year from 2017 as the National Integration and reconciliation week with the view of improving peace, harmony and fraternity among people and to implement various programmes in all schools, media, public and private institutions demonstrating the importance of national integration, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Project for providing recreation facilities around Kumbichchankulama tank, Anuradhapura (Document No – 15)

Although Anuradhapura city has basic infrastructure and common amenities it does not have sufficient space for recreation activities. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to obtain funds for the project to rehabilitate the Kumbichchankulama Tank and develop its surrounding for providing recreational facilities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Construction of a 100 mw solar park in Siyambalanduwa (Document No – 16)

There is currently a global trend in generating electricity through renewable energy sources and a priority has been given to solar power. Accordingly, Solar Power Plants of 11.3 MW are being connected national grid and about 30 MW are being generated under net metering. Various projects have been implemented to improve the use of solar power and it has been planned to construct 03 Solar Parks with 100 MW each. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to perform a feasibility study for construction of a 100 Mw Solar Park in Siyambalanduwa, Monaragala, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Construction of knuckles information centre – Department of forest conservation (Document No – 27)

Construction of a Comprehensive Information Centre was commenced in 2014 in the Knuckles Reservation Forest it has been discontinued with difficulty of obtaining necessary allocations. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to resume its constructions using allocations of Rs. 23 million to be received under the "2016-2018 Punarudaya" Programme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Resettlement of families displaced due to the Moragahakanda – Kaluganga Development Project in Medirigiriya Divisional secretary's Division (Document No – 28)

A portion of families displaced under the above project will be resettled in its catchment area and other are to be resettled in an identified lands of 9000 hectares in Medirigiriya area of Mahaweli D Zone. Resettlement development activities are being done covering 04 Grama Niladhari Divisions and it expects to cover the whole divisional secretary's division. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to expand irrigation and settlement development activities in 09 Grama Niladhari Divisions and to do a feasibility study for the rest 32 Grama Niladhari Divisions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Construction of a new rail track from Kurunegala to Habarana via Dambulla (Document No – 29)

An environment impact study has already been done in this regard. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to obtain the service of Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau to assist the Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee with regard to the Technical Proposal presented by the Chinese project proposer, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Development of infrastructure in universities (Document No – 30)

Accommodation facilities to academic and non-academic staff should be provided within universities to retain them in universities outside Colombo.  Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to implement projects for construction of quarters for staff in Universities of Rajarata, Ruhuna, Wayamba, Sabaragamuwa, Eastern and Jaffna, and to construct a four storied (04) building to develop the Jaffna regional centre of the Open University of Sri Lanka, and to completely renovate old buildings in the University of Peradeniya, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Setup an intravenous solution manufacturing plant in Sri Lanka (Document No – 31)

Cabinet of Ministers has already approved the setup of the above plant in Sri Lanka to save a large amount of money spent on pharmaceuticals and other medical equipments and to provide fresh and quality intravenous solutions required for all hospitals in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above project as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Construction of a new building for the Homagama Divisional Secretariat (Document No – 33)

The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Pilot project on establishment of a ground water monitoring network covering Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Monaragala Districts (Document No – 34)

Management of ground water in Sri Lanka is very important and obtaining timely data on ground water is essential in this regard. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to award the contract for implementing the above project covering river basins of Malwathu Oya in Anuradhapura District, Maduru Oya in Polonnaruwa District and kumbukkan Oya in Monaragala District as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Financing consultancy services for design review and construction supervision of civil works of extension of southern expressway project (Document No – 41)

Constructions of all 04 phases of extension of Southern Expressway from Matara to Hambantota have commenced in late 2015 and are on progress. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to enter into a framework agreement with the Government of China to obtain a loan of Renminbi Yuan 577 million on the above matter and to enter into a loan agreement with EXIM Bank of China for obtaining the loan, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


13.    'Awakening Rajarata' presidential programme -award of four contracts on highways development under 'let's awaken Polonnaruwa' District Development Programme (Document No – 49)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award following four (04) contracts as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

    Improvement of Manampitiya – Aralaganwila – Maduru Oya road (3.0 km to 33.0 km)
    Improvement and rehabilitation of Dehiattakandiya – Aralaganwila road (0 km to 21.10 km)
    Improvement of Minneriay – Galoya road (0 km to 14.54 km)
    Improvement of Elahera – Giritale road (0 km to 29.0 km)

14.    Expansion of facilities at Monaragala Vocational Training Centre of the National Youth Services Council (Document No – 50)

The above vocational training centre was established in 1987 and no action has been taken to improve its facilities since then. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to construct a new building for lectured halls for conducting 10 courses to train 250 youths focusing on motor mechanism, construction and tourist hotel industries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Importation of rice to control price hike and storage in the domestic market (Document No – 58)


The area of land cultivated in Maha season has decreased due to bad weather condition affected the country. In this case, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to import rice through private sector, to store all rice in bonded warehouses and to issue rice to the market gradually to control the price hike, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

 

 

The Ministry of Parliamentary Reform and Media has started a national program to identify rural peoples problems and provide solutions. The proposal was made by minister Gayantha Karunathilaka and the first round of discussion was held in his presence at the parliamentary complex. 
 
All the institutions such as Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, Independent Television Network, National Film Corporation, Department of Government Printing, State Printing Corporation, Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd, Salacine and Department of Government Information will get together to take the program islandwide.
 
This was discussed at the progress evaluation meeting of the institutions under the ministry which was attended by secretary NimalBopage and heads of all institutions.

Contradictory predictions appearing on social media and internet regarding President Maithripala Sirisena are totally false, emphasized Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Nimal Bopage.


Addressing media today at the ministry he said that, the people who are spreading such predictions through social media are attempting to mislead the public by creating a false public opinion regarding President Sirisena’s life.


Further, the Secretary while condemning the accuracy of the content of these predictions added that the public must be aware of such unethical programs conducted by some interested individuals.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that during the last few decades the political parties and the leaders became unpopular due to the corruption, frauds and malpractices and abuse of power by some of the elected members of local government institutions.


Addressing the ‘Swarna Purawara Awards’ Ceremony at the Nelum Pokuna yesterday, the President said that the chairpersons of local government bodies enjoy immense powers only next to the Executive President and they should always use that power for the benefit of the people.


President Sirisena pointed out that those elected members who use their power to serve the people become popular with the masses and the local government institutions should become the centers of good governance.


“It is the responsibility of the politicians and the government officers to look into the issues of the people and solve them. All politicians and government officers should be dedicated to show the excellence during their service using the limitless powers vested with the local government institutions in the development, administration, financial management and the social welfare”, the President said.


The ‘Swarna Purawara Award’ Ceremony is organized annually by the Ministry of Provincial Council and Local Government with the intention of commending the Local Government Institutions.


This initiative will pave the way to eliminate shortages and will assist to understand the challenges of the Local Government System, which consisted of 23 Municipal Councils, 41 Urban Councils, and 271 Pradeshiya Sabhas.


Ministers of Provincial Council and Local Government, Faizer Mustapha, State Minister, Priyankara Jayarathna, Governors, Provincial Council Ministers, Provincial Council Commissioner, Secretaries, and State Officials participated at this ceremony.

President Maithripala Srisena arrived at the Kualalumpur International Airport this afternoon (December 15) commencing his 3-day state visit to Malaysia.


He was received by the Malaysian Human Resource Development Minister Dato Sri Richard Riot Anak Jaem and senior officials. The staff members of the Sri Lanka High Commission and their family members were also present at the Airport to welcome President Sirisena.


The President was received with state honours that included a guard of honour at the Airport.


President Srisena also engaged in a cordial discussion with the Malaysian Human Resource Development Minister at the airport.


During his visit, the President will sign several bilateral Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Malaysia and will return to Colombo on December 17.

01.    Construction of a new building for the use of Army Women's corps (Document No – 07)

The Women's Corps of the army is located in an old building in a land of 92 perches in Kinsey Road, Borella and the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to build a new building for their use in the same land at an estimated cost of Rs. 94 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Construct the main sewerage system in Panagoda Army Camp (Document No – 08)

The Panagoda Army Camp established in 1952 consists of 07 regiment centres including Security Force Headquarters (West) Base Hospital, quarters for officers and other rankers. The sewerage system in this camp has decayed and it is meaningless to repair the existing system. Hence, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to construct a new sewerage system at an estimated cost of Rs. 80 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Provision of accommodation for other rankers of Sri Lanka Army (Document No – 09)

The lacking of accommodation for other rankers in Army Headquarters and its affiliated institutions and Army Hospital has become an issue. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to construct a new building for providing such accommodation in a land owned by Sri Lanka Army in Manning Town, Narahenpita at an estimated cost of Rs. 239.12 million was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Dam Safety and water resources planning project (DSWRPP) for future development activities (Document No – 10)

There is a need of an updated national water resources development and management plan and Mahaweli Master Plan has not been updated since 1978. Accordingly, considering the water use in next 30 years 03 water resources plans i.e. National Plan of Water Usage, Updated Mahaweli Water Resources Development Plan, and Integrated Water Resources Development Plan of the Mundeni Aru Basin have been prepared under DSWRPP which was commenced in 2007. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to keep these plans in the Department of National Planning to be used by any institution engaged in development activities in water resource sector, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Training programme on skills development in the gem and jewellery industry (Document No – 11)

The objective of the Gem and Jewellery Research Training Institute is to increase the contribution of the industry in economic development, and accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to expand its training opportunities for providing foreign employment opportunities in this field and for developing the institute as an internationally recognized education institution, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Signing of a Memorandum of understanding between Sri Lanka and Tajikistan on cooperation in tourism field (Document No – 14)

The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to sign the above MoU during the Sri Lankan visit of Tajikistan President on 13-15 December 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Signing of a Memorandum of understanding between Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan on political consultations (Document No – 15)

The proposal made by Hon. Harsha de Silva, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the above MoU during the Sri Lankan visit of Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon on 13-15 December 2016 on increasing bilateral relations and cooperation in political, economic, trade, scientific, technological and cultural fields, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Signing of a Memorandum of understanding between Sri Lanka and Tajikistan on development of sports (Document No – 52)

The proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to sign the above MoU during the Sri Lankan visit of Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon on 13-15 December 2016 on development of sports sector in the two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    The National Policy on elimination of child labour in Sri Lanka (Document No – 16)

Sri Lanka has agreed to eliminate child labour at Global Child Labour Conference in 2010 held at Hague, Netherland and there has been a decrease of 50% in use of child labour from 2008/2009 to 2015/2016 indicating the ability of eliminating child labour in Sri Lanka. Moreover, the above national policy is essential in regaining the GSP+ of European Union. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon.  W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, to adopt and implement the said policy, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Construction of a safety centre for providing temporary accommodation for people affected by disasters (Document No – 17)

The Badulla District has been recognized by the National Building Research Organization as a landslide prone district and a safety centre for providing accommodation for victims is being required. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to acquire a land of half an acre from the Balangoda Plantation Company for the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Construction of a building for the Out Patients department of National Hospital (Document No – 19)

The National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL) is the biggest hospital in South East Asia which comprises of 3300 beds and located in a land of 32 acres in Colombo area. Out Patients Department (OPD) of NHSL is still located in the building which it was initiated in 1948 and its infrastructures are not sufficient in providing a good service for more than 5000 patients arriving daily to the OPD. It has been planned to construct a new OPD with assistance from People's Republic of China, and accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to enter into an agreement with the government of China for implementing this project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Establishment of Millewa Industrial cluster as phase I of the proposed Horana Industrial Township Development (Document No – 22)

It has been proposed to establish two industrial towns in Horana and Mirigama under the Western Megapolis plan. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to establish the Millewa Industrial Cluster as the Phase I of Horana Industrial Township Development Project on public-private partnership and to transfer required lands from Land Reforms Commission to Urban Development Authority, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Establishment of multipurpose Fishery Harbours in the areas of Uduppuwa, Delft, madagal and Chalei (Document No – 27)

The government plans to establish multipurpose fishery harbours covering fishery, commercial and tourism sectors. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to enter into a MoU with a Korean Company to undertake a feasibility study free of charge for establishment of fishery harbours with required facilities in Uduppuwa area in North-western Province and Delft, Madagal and Chalei areas in Northern Province, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    Improvement of Flood protection bunds in Kelani River (Document No – 32)

About 2/3 of the basin of Kelani River faces frequent floods which are in Colombo and suburbs. It has been observed that several weak points are in the flood protection dams at the flood situation in May 2016. The main reason for this was identified as activities of illegal residents. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to implement a project of improving flood protection dams of Kelani River at an estimated cost of Rs. 1000 million was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Construction of Mullaitivu Police Station (Document No – 39)

Priority has been given to constriction of new buildings for Police Stations and improvements to existing stations under the programme to maintain law and order in Northern Province. The cabinet has approved the building of a new building for the Mullaitivu Police Station in 2014 instead of the rented building but the constructions have been delayed. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to initiate its constructions with immediate effect, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.    Colombo National Highways Project – Improvement of road section from Godagama to Bope (16.740 km to 28.004 km) in Kotte – Bope road (B240) (Document No – 46)

Above project is funded by the Opec Fund for International Development. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    Colombo National Highways Project – Improvement of road section from Kottawa to Moragahahena (1.0 km to 15.48 km) in Kottawa – Thalagala road (B239) (Document No – 47)

    Above project is funded by the Opec Fund for International Development. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    'Awakening Rajarata' presidential programme -award of three contracts on highways development under 'let's awaken Polonnaruwa' District Development Programme 2016-2020 (Document No – 46)

    The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the contracts for development of a road section of 7.5 km with 4 lane tracks in Polonnaruwa urban area of Habarana – Batticaloa road (B529), improvement of 13.6 km of Dambulla – Bakamuna – Kalagahawela road (B615) and for widening and laying carpets in a road section of 5.06 km from Polonnaruwa to Polonnaruwa new town as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Budget Financing 2016 and 2017 (Document No – 53)

There are local sources such as issuing government securities as well as foreign sources such as Foreign Currency Banking Units of state banks, foreign currency term financing facility, and international sovereign bonds. Such diversified options will enable low cost financing and will allow access of different investor communities who wish to invest in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, and Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to appoint a steering committee and a technical evaluation committee comprised of officers from General Treasury, Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs, and Central Bank of Sri Lanka, to proceed with a Foreign Currency Term Financing facility within the approved borrowing limit for 2017,  was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.    Relocation of Kolonnawa-Kelanitissa 132 kV transmission line and Biyagama-Kelanitissa 220 kV Transmission line to facilitate construction of the proposed new bridge over the Kelani River (Document No – 54)

Above transmission lines should be relocated to construct the proposed six lane bridge that connects with Colombo-Katunayake Expressway. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to award the contract of relocating transmission lines as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

01.    Proposal on liquidation of Rakna araksha Lanka Ltd (Document No – 10)


The Rakna Lanka Ltd was established as an government affiliated security service to provide security to special institutions such as economic targets, public institutions, and private institutions considering the then security status in the country as army officers who provided such security had to be deployed in process of maintaining law and order in the country. With the present peaceful situation in the country it has been observed that such firm is unnecessary. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to assign the tasks of providing security in land to Civil Security Department and in sea to Sri Lanka Navy and to proceed with liquidation of the company according to the guidance of Attorney General, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Introduction of a new act to prevent the access of dangerous invasive species of plants and animals into the country (Document No – 12)


Sri Lanka is a major country which has a rich biodiversity. Hence it is essential to conserve inherited species of plants and animals. It has been observed that prevailing laws are insufficient in controlling the threat faced in this regard from invasive species. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft new legislation enabling the prevention of bringing such invasive species into the country and destroying such prevailing species, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Construction of tunnel of the Upper Elahera Canal Project implemented under the Mahaweli Water Security Investment Programme (Document No – 13)

Objective of the first phase of the above programme is to provide Mahaweli water for cultivation, drinking water and commercial needs in North-central and North-western Provinces. It has been planned to construct a canal from Moragahakanda reservoir to Hurulu wewa with a length of 65.5 km that can take 974 million cubic metres per year. As a section of about 26 km of this canal is to be built across Girithale and Minneriya sanctuaries, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to constrict the canal as a tunnel to minimize its affect to the environment, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Directions for regulating Sea Turtle Conservation Studies Centres (Document No – 14)


All sea turtles in Sri Lanka have been declared as strictly protected reptiles and keeping such a turtle is a punishable offence. Private turtle conservation centres that breed eggs in artificial nests and release them back to the sea were operated specially in Southern Coast since 1980s. About 15 such centres are currently operated. The proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to publish the directions made under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance in the gazette making provisions for regulating such centres by registering them in the Department of Wildlife Conservation and obtaining an annual license, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Purchase of a land to construct a hostel for students of Institute of Indigenous medicine (Document No – 17)


The government's policy is to provide hostel facilities to all eligible students at 2018. All students in Institute of Indigenous Medicine in Rajagiriya, which is under the University of Colombo, have been provided hostels but in rented houses with low facilities. Hence, it has identified that constructing a hotel in a purchased land is more suitable. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to purchase a land of 62 perches within the Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte urban council area at a cost of Rs. 99.5 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    North-western five year Corporate plan (Document No – 18)

The responsibility of coordinating, policy making and implementation of economic and infrastructure development projects in North-western Province is vested with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs. Accordingly, the five year corporate plan – 2017-2021 prepared with the participation of all parties covering the fields of agriculture and irrigation, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture, tourism, human resources development, investment promotion and industrial development, and rural infrastructure development, was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs.


07.    Making relief to aged and ailing artistes (Document No – 19)


The Department of Cultural Affairs implemented an aiding programme for aged and ailing low income artistes who have sacrificed their lives in arts field and currently 1,019 artistes are being paid an annual aid of Rs. 5,000/-. Considering the present economic status, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to increase the amount of the aid to Rs. 10,000/- from year 2017 and to increase the number of beneficiaries to 5,000, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Establishment of the Multimodal Transport hub in Battaramulla (Document No – 20)


The traffic congestion in Battaramulla area with relocating all administrative bodies in the area should be reduced. It has been proposed to establish multimodal transport facilities such as bus, light rail transits, elevated highways, and internal water transportation to cater the increasing demand. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to implement mixed development project adjacent to 'Suhurupaya' with public private partnership including multimodal transport hub, office spaces of 113,000 square feet, residential flats of 33,000 square feet, commercial spaces of 60,000 square feet, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Relocation of Manning Market Pettah in Peliyagoda area (Document No – 21)


The Manning Market is to be relocated in Peliyagoda area and use the space vacated for building the main building of Multi Mode Transport Hub proposed to be established under the Western Megapolis Plan. The required constructions to relocate about 1,200 traders in the market are in progress in a land owned by the State Engineering Corporation. However, the construction of Multi Mode Transport Hub should be commenced without a delay and it is required to relocate traders as soon as possible. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development and Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to obtain an adjacent land owned by the State Engineering Corporation of about 06 acres in Peliyagoda area on 03 years lease basis, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Promotion of Aquaculture in commercial level (Document No – 25)


The government expects to develop aquaculture and gain an income of USD 425 million at 2020. Hence National Aquaculture Development Authority plans to attract investors who are engaged in commercial level aquaculture with modern technology. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to identify suitable water sources in freshwater and seawater and to provide them to investors as recommended by the Cabinet Subcommittee appointed in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Reconstruction of Madulla, Bingoda, Kollewatta reservoir (Document No – 31)


The above reservoir is used by aborigines for cultivations and they had requested for a long time to reconstruct this reservoir. It has been planned to uplift the living status of the residents by reconstruction of the tank and through a sustainable irrigation management. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, to implement the proposed project for construction of a reservoir across Kollewatta Aru a branch of Unnachchi Aru at an estimated cost of Rs. 320 million, after an environmental impact study, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Provision of land ownership and proper housing for plantation community (Document No – 36)


There are 256,533 families in estates of Regional Plantation Companies and 9025 families in state owned estates and only 33000 houses have been constructed for them and others live in line rooms and small temporary houses. On the government's policy of providing ownership to public the joint proposal made by Hon. U. Palani Thigambaram, Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development, Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, and Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Land, to provide freehold and bankable lands of 7 perches each for legal residents and to release identified lands from plantation companies and other public institutions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Prevention of harassment against women in workplace and empowerment of women (Document No – 37)


Sri Lanka is bound to take actions to eliminate violence against the women in workplaces according to the international conventions it has entered. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, to appoint committees of senior officials in each ministry to eliminate gender based violence in all workplaces, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


14.    Improvement of Police Information and Communication System (Document No – 40)


Although the implementation of the PICS was approved by the Cabinet in 2013 its scope should be amended due to recent technological developments. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to appoint a steering committee with the agreement of the Ministry of Finance and to reserve a permanent range of frequency to use digital equipments instead of analogue equipment from the Telecommunications Regulation Commission, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Award of Contracts for construction of buildings in Universities of Jaffna and Wayamba (Document No – 47)


The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award contracts for construction of gymnasium of the University of Jaffna and buildings for a laboratory and for Faculty of Agriculture and Cultivation Management as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.    Deduru Oya Water Supply Project, award of plant and design – build contract (Document No – 48)


The above project expects to provide safe drinking water for residents in 97 Grama Niladhari Divisions in Maho and Polpithigama Divisional Secretary's Divisions in Kurunegala Districts. It will provide pipe water connections to 18150 houses and will benefit 90800 persons. The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the above project as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    Establishment of small scale solar power plants under the 2nd stage of Soorya Bala Sangramaya (Document No – 51)


There has been a great demand by investors to construct solar power plants but it had been estimated that only 60 Mw could be added to the national grid in this year. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to implement a new project as Soorya Bala Sangramaya – stage 2 for providing investors to construct solar power plants of 01 Mw each in a transparent manner, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    Construction of Nuwara Eliya High Altitude Sports Complex (Document No – 53)


Practicing in a high altitude sport complex will provide a good tolerance to athletes and it has been proposed to construct such a sports complex in a location situated 1895m high above sea level for providing such facilities to local athletes as well as to earn foreign exchange by providing such facilities to athletes in neighbouring countries. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to enter into an agreement with the selected France Company to construct the above sports complex, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Signing of bilateral Memorandums of Understanding during the upcoming Malaysian official visit of the President (Document No – 63)


The proposal made by Hon. Harsha de Silva, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the following MoUs with the Government of Malaysia during the President Maithripala Sirisena's official visit scheduled on 15-17 December 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

    MoU on cooperation in tourism
    MoU on cooperation in the field of trainings, researches, and public administration
    MoU between Sri Lanka Agricultural Research Policy Council and Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute
    MoU between the Ministry of Plantation Industries in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities in Malaysia
    MoU on cooperation in the field of cultural, arts and heritage
    MoU on cooperation in the field of youth development

20.    Appointment of a ministerial subcommittee to inspect on implementation of Gin-Nilwala Diversion Project (Document No – 65)


Above project has been commenced as per the Cabinet approval granted in 2014. Accordingly the contract was awarded to Chinese Company at a cost of USD 696 million. However, the project has not been implemented as the activities of the loan agreement with China EXIM Bank have not been finalized. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to appoint a Cabinet Subcommittee to investigate the following matters and to appoint a Committee of Officials to assist the process, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


    Whether the contract agreement can be implemented without any additional cost to the government
    Assess the negative impact and costs if one party wants to terminate the agreement, unilaterally 
    Whether those officials involved have violated any financial regulations, government procedures and circular instructions
    How to recover the advance payment without any adverse implications

21.    Joint Cabinet Memorandum of Ministerial Committee on Development of Hambantota Prot (Document No – 67)


The joint proposal made by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, and Hon. Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Special Assignment, to develop Hambantota Port with a public private partnership with the China Merchants Port Holdings, and to enter into a framework agreement with the said investor, based upon the final decision made at the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.    Achievement of National Sustainable development vision 2030 in Sri Lanka (Document No – 68)


Achievement of sustainable development always depends on multilateral sector aims, and follow-up and evaluation is important in this regard.  Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to appoint a Cabinet Subcommittee comprised of 05 Cabinet Ministers and a Panel of Intellectuals to assist the activities of preparing the National Sustainable development vision 2030 on the influence of 17 fields of UN sustainable development goals, identification of achievable development level at 2030, preparation of a timeframe, identification of roles of public, private and civil organizations in this regard, progress review, and review and update of sustainable development goals and strategies etc., was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake december 03rd visited Dr. Edwin Ariyadasa to wish him for his 95th birthday. At the Lake House, he was a member of the Editorial Staff of most of the Lake House Publications. He was on the Editorial Staff of DivainaDaily NewsSunday ObserverSilumina, Janatha and was the Editor – in – Chief of "Navanugaya".
He initiated the study of Mass Communication at the Higher Education in Sri Lanka. He formulated the first syllabus to teach mass communications at the University of Kelaniya. Also, he was associated with the introduction of media studies at the Open University of Sri Lanka. He was highly influential in the inauguration of the Diploma of Mass Communications at the University of Colombo.
Edwin Ariyadasa is appraised for introducing new Sinhala terms for English terms such as Antarjalaya' (Internet), `Madya Rupa' (media images) and `Sajivikaranaya' 

 

It has been proposed to establish an internal airline service according to the criteria of International Civil Aviation Authority. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to call for proposals from eligible private investors to select a suitable investor for commencing such an airline service with the Sri Lanka Air Force, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


02. Establishment of the National Defence College (Document No – 09)

A National Defence College is proposed to be established in Sri Lanka with the view of connecting Sri Lanka with the world strategically, gathering Sri Lankan and foreign academics in one knowledge hub, and providing a proper training for military and civil officers on defence strategies and methods. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to use the 'Mumtaz Mahal' premises, which was the former official residence of the Speaker by undertaking required renovations in this regard considering the importance of locating it around Colombo, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Development of 'Ranaviru resource Centre' Hendala, which provides vocational training for disabled war heroes (Document No – 10)

The Ranaviru Resource Centre in Hendala was established since 2010 for providing vocational training for disabled war heroes. It undertakes more than 09 vocational training courses with its current infrastructure. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to develop this resource centre by constructing 05 new buildings and providing infrastructure for 15 courses, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Prohibition of touting in the airport (Document No – 12)

Passengers as well as the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd face many difficulties due to illegal touting in the arrival lobby and porch area of the airport on providing transport, exchange of currency and loading packages. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to amend the Civil Aviation Act No. 14 of 2010, to prevent this situation as the prevailing legislation is insufficient in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Implementation of priority water supply projects in Western Megapolis Area (Document No – 13)

Government's priority concern is on providing utility services to increasing population in the Western area. A portion of 97.3% of population has the access to safe drinking water and 57.5% of it is provided by pipe water. Existing 19 water treatment plants in the area treats about 1,078,520 cubic metres of water daily. It is expected to be increased to 2,200,000 cubic metres in 2030 to the requirement of a population of 8.7 million; hence, new water supply projects should be implemented. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to proceed with the activities of 05 new water supply projects covering the areas of Colombo and suburbs, Mirigama Industrial City, proposed aero city in Mirigama, Divulapitiya, Homagama, Horana, and surroundings, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Amendment of the Quarantine and prevention of diseases ordinance (Document No – 15)

It is essential to setup the legal framework in Sri Lanka to facilitate prevent the plaguing of communicable diseases from country to country in a background of increasing global relations through international travel, trade, tourism and labourer migration. International Health Regulations 2005 signed by Sri Lanka provides for taking steps relevant to public health on prevention of internationally transmitting diseases. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to make necessary amendments to the Quarantine and prevention of diseases Ordinance which is the legislation related to implementation of IHR in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Construction of a new building for the National Lotteries Board (Document No – 16)

The National Lotteries Board provides a large contribution to the consolidated fund of the government and its head office is located in a building rented for about Rs. 17.5 million annually, and its space is insufficient for its operations. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to construct a new building for the NLB in a land in Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02 owned by the NLB, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Construction of a hostel for the German Tec students (Document No – 18)

At present 10 fulltime courses are being conducted in Lanka German Technical Training Institute, and about 2000 students around the island are following these courses and it is expected to increase the number of students from 200 at the end or 2017. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to construct a 05 storied hostel at an estimated cost of Rs. 280 million, to provide accommodation for 1000 students, for providing safer accommodation for students, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Improvement of new utilities and infrastructure required for western region Megapolis (Document No – 19)

It is expected that there will be an increased demand for essential utility services such as transport, electricity, water, drainage and waste disposal with the implementation of the main plan of the Western Region Megapolis project. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to take following actions to face this challenge, was approved as a policy by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Improvements to road system

Extension of Baseline Road to Galle Road.
Extend the Polduwa – Koswatta Road, which is under construction to Kelaniya via Kolonnawa.
Widening the road section of 120 bus route from Pamankada Bridge to W.A. Silva Mawatha.
Construction of a new express transport way from multimodal transport hub in Makumbura to Mahenawatta Science and Technology City.
Construction of new flyovers in Kohuwala junction and Railway crossing near Castle Hospital.
Construction of multimodal transport hubs in Battaramulla, Katunayake, Kadawatha, Moratuwa, and Panadura and regularizing the bus service reaching the town.
Extension of proposed elevated road from Kelani Bridge to Rajagiriya via Orugodawatta to outer circular highway covering Battaramulla administrative city.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Highways has already taken steps to implement some of these activities.

Solid Waste Management

Improvement of municipal solid waste disposal yards using sorting or burning technology.

Affirmation of required water supply

Development of big reservoirs in Seethawaka Ganga and Wee Oya which are branches of Kelani River to meet the demand.
Use of recycled waste water for non-drinking purposes.
Desalinate of sea water using electricity in off peak hours.

10. Providing a land for construction of head office of Sri Lanka Amarapura nikayabhiwurdhi dayaka sabhawa (Document No – 20)

There are about 3700 temple of Amarapura Nikaya in the country and about 12000 monks reside in them. As a request made by the Sri Lanka Amarapura Nikayabhiwurdhi Dayaka Sabhawa, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to donate a land of 02 roods and 4.2 perches owned by the Urban Development Authority located in Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital Road, Thalapathpitiya as a free grant to construct its head office, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Obtaining a land to construct District Sports Complex in Dadella (Document No – 22)

A land of 17 acres in Dadella area has been selected to be developed as a public sports stadium as the Galle Public Stadium has been converted into an international cricket stadium. Its construction has been commenced and a 400 m long running track and a swimming pool will be constructed. The joint proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, and Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to obtain an amount of Rs. 400 million from the General Treasury to complete the acquisition of land to complete the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Commence a factory for production of electricity meter enclosures (Document No – 25)

More than 250,000 meter enclosures required for the CEB and LECO are obtained through competitive bidding and shortages in market may cause delays in fulfilling consumer demands. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to establish a factory to produce meter enclosures in Galigamuwa Industrial Zone in Kegalle through the Sri Lanka Energies Private Limited owned by CEB and to supply its products to CEB and LECO, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Protecting houses of the Sobhasiripura Housing Scheme from the threat of landslide (Document No – 31)

The National Building Research Organization has pointed out that a considerable number of houses in the above housing scheme are under the threat of landslides. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to obtain necessary allocations from the General Treasury to implement preliminary action required to protect these houses, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Proposed Memorandum of Understanding for provision of employment in Malaysia to Sri Lankans (Document No – 35)

The cabinet has approved the signing of a MoU between the two countries to prepare a method to provide employment to Sri Lankans in Malaysia (in 2015). The proposal made by Hon. Thalatha Athukorala, Minister of Foreign Employment, to sign the prepared MoU between the Ministry of Human Resources of Malaysia and Ministry of Foreign Employment of Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Construction of a new national school with multi-ethnic and trilingual education in Polonnaruwa District (Document No – 36)

The Cabinet has already approved the construction of a new school which has classes from grade 6 in Kaduruwela at an estimated cost of Rs. 1200 million as the Polonnaruwa Royal College is insufficient to provide access to all students who pass grade 5 scholarship examination. The government of Sri Lanka bears Rs. 900 million of the cost while the rest Rs. 300 million will be provided by the Government of India. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to sign a MoU with the Republic of India for obtaining the said grant and to implement its constructions with the coordination of the Ministry of Education, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Allocation of 100 housing units to Sri Lanka Police from the "Nila Sevana" project at Wekunagoda, Galle (Document No – 39)

The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to allocate treasury allocations of Rs. 333 million to Sri Lanka Police to allocate 100 housing units for police officers in the ranks of Police Constable, Police Sergeant, and Inspector of Police from the above housing project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Procuring 40-46 seater (2x2) high back 1000 new buses for SLTB (Document No – 42)

Although bids were called to repair 1000 buses of the SLTB the cost of repairing is closer to the price of a new bus. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to holt the project of repairing 1000 buses and instead purchase 40-46 seater (2x2) high back 1000 new buses, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Establishment of a research and training complex at the faculty of agriculture, University of Jaffna (Document No – 43)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the contract for providing consultancy services to the above project, which is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Improvement of Badulla – Chenkalady road – road sections from Badulla to Passara and Passara to Lunugala (Document No – 44)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award contracts for improvement of road sections from Badulla to Passara (20 km) and Passara to Lunugala (21 km) funded by the Opec Fund for International Development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Completion of partially completed projects in Tangalle, Angunakolapelessa, and Middeniya (Document No – 46)

The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to complete the projects of constructing commercial complexes in Tangalle and Angunakolapelessa, and Middeniya urban development project, at an estimated cost of Rs. 60.8 million through contractors selected through competitive procurement method, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Greater Colombo Transmission and Distribution loss reduction project (Document No – 47)

The above project is implemented under loan assistance of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to award the contract of supply of specialized vehicles for distribution works under the package 3 of the project, as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22. Construction of two wind power plants in Chunnakam (Document No – 48)

The government has paid its attention on generating a larger portion of electricity requirement by renewable energy sources and it is proposed to establish solar and wind power plants. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to award the tenders of establishing two (02) wind power plants of 10 Mw each in Chunnakam, as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23. Construction of Wattala Court Complex (Document No – 50)

The Cabinet has already approved the implementation of the first phase of the above project through the Sri Lanka State Engineering Corporation at an estimated cost of Rs. 156.18 million. The functions of the Wattala court are currently done in a part of the Court Complex, Mahara. This project should be completed immediately to provide a good service to residents around Wattala area. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to award the second phase of the above project to the Sri Lanka State Engineering Corporation at an estimated cost of Rs. 148.29 million on the basis of design and built, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24. Provision of Office Allowances and increase parliament sitting allowance for members of parliament (Document No – 54)

The proposal made by Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media, to present a proposal to the parliament for provision of a monthly office allowance of Rs. 100,000 to maintain an office for each parliamentarian including national list MPs from January 2017, and to increase the current parliament sitting allowance from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2500, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25. Sand nourishment project in Marawila beach (Phase II) (Document No – 57)

The above project has been commenced and the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to nourish an additional area in Thalwila beach in Marawila by pumping additional 400,000 cubic metres of sand using balance allocations in 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

26. Construction of a building to the Attorney General's Department (Document No – 58)

The Cabinet has already approved the construction of a new building in the Superior Courts Complex and its basic activities have been completed. The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to award the contract for completing its balance work as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

27. Extending the concessionary period of the additional charge for delay in applying for registration of transfer at the change of possession of motor vehicles till 31-12-2016 (Document No - 59)

The 03 months concessionary period granted under the approval of the cabinet expires on 30-11-2016. A large number of people arrive at the Department of Motor Traffic in this regard causing a very busy situation in department's duties. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to extend this concessionary period from another month till 31-12-2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Commenting on the progress the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd. (ANCL), known as ‘Lake House’, has achieved under the new management, Mass Media and Parliamentary Reforms Minister GayanthaKarunathilake said, the company had earned a profit of Rs. 150 million so far this year. 

He said the management hoped to increase profit to Rs. 200 million by the end of this year – with newspapers sales looking promising, showing a 10% increase, and debt having reduced from Rs. 800 million to Rs. 300 million.

The Minister made these observations while commenting on Lake House during the Committee Stage debate of ‘Budget 2017’.

“Lake House has earned a profit of Rs. 150 million so far, and the management hopes to increase this to Rs. 200 million by the end of this year. Sales have seen a 10 % increase,” the Minister said.

“Over the past years, there have been many court cases against the institution on defamation. A total of Rs. 1.5 billion has been sought as compensation by way of these cases. We are happy to say that not a single defamation case has been filed against this institution after we assumed duties.”

“The salaries of employees have been increased by Rs. 3, 050  so far and another Rs. 300 will be added to the basic salary from next year,” he added.

“All pages of the Dinamina, Daily News and Sunday Observer are now printed in colour and a new email system has also been established,” he noted.

He also said the ‘Sarasavi’ awards ceremony, which had not been held the last eight years, would be held on December 15.

A survey reveals significant improvement in press freedom in Sri Lanka last year as the journalists no longer fear reprisals for expressing their political views.The annual World Press Freedom Index for 2016 by Paris based Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranks Sri Lanka 141 out of 180 countries. Sri Lanka’s rank improved 24 notches from 165th place it earned in 2015.

The Index ranks 180 countries according to the level of freedom available to journalists.

It is a snapshot of the media freedom based on an evaluation of pluralism, independence of the media, quality of legislative framework and safety of journalists in each country.

Finland for six years in succession ranks at the top of the index again this year, while The Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and New Zealand rounded up the top five in that order.

In the South Asian region, Nepal was up 15 places at 105th due to a drop in violence by the security forces against journalists, especially at demonstrations. Bhutan improved 10 notches to 94th, Pakistan improved 12 notches to rank 147th, India133rd, Nepal 105th, Afghanistan 120th, Maldives 112th, and Bangladesh 144th. 

01.    Continuation of Anti-corruption Committee Secretariat (Document No – 06)

The government has paid its attention on restructuring anti-corruption institutional structure and it has been proposed to establish a fully powered Serious Fraud Office in Sri Lanka which is similar to the Serious Frauds Office in United Kingdom. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to continue the operations of the above secretariat which was established in 2015 until such a Serious Fraud Office is introduced, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Implementation of the Third phase of the Army Hospital (Narahenpita) Project (Document No – 07)

The relocation of the Army Hospital in Narahenpita area which was earlier located in Army Headquarters has finished its first and second stages. It has been planned to build three building complexes for providing medical facilities, accommodation for medical officers and other officers, storage facilities, and maintenance facilities under its third phase. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to implement the third phase of the said project at an estimated cost of Rs. 7,088.32 million and to commence its constructions in 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Explore and assessment of gem deposits in Sri Lanka (Document No – 09)

It has been assessed that gem deposits are spread in around 70% of land in Sri Lanka but only 10% of them are used in mining activities. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement Project for explore and assess gem deposits in Sri Lanka within 2017 and 2021 which is planned with the view of introducing a comprehensive database with illustration on gem deposits, introducing proper methods for gem mining, and preparing guidelines for a sustainable gem mining industry, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Protection and progress of domesticated elephants (Document No – 10)

People are legally permitted to keep domesticated elephants by obtaining an annual license after registering in the Department of Wildlife Conservation under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. The proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to declare the regulations prepared under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, for formalizing the way to maintain the places elephants are kept, maintaining their health, responsibilities of their owners and caretakers, caring of baby elephants born to such female elephants, deploying elephants in work, reproduction, using for perahera and video shootings, and attires for elephants,  was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Increasing the fine for persons who run buses without a valid passenger service permit (Document No – 11)

The need to tighten laws against persons who run buses without a valid passenger service license has occurred for secure the passengers from dangerous situations and to develop the quality of bus services. Hence, the Cabinet has already approved the increasing of the minimum fine charged by a Magistrate's Court from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 200,000 for running a bus without the valid passenger service permit. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to present the National Transport Commission (Amendment) Bill in parliament drafted for providing provisions for the above purpose by amending the article 40 of the National Transport Commission Act No 37 of 1991, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Introduction of Global Positioning System (GPS) for efficient and secure operation of trains (Document No – 12)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to procure and install a Train Operating and Information System based on GPS system that enebles to monitor the definite location and speed of trains from the Ministry of Defenece and implement it connected with the current Train Time Keeping System with the objective of benefiting the Sri Lanka Railway and passengers, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Presenting the 204th recommendation of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to the parliament (Document No – 15)

The proposal made by Hon. W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, to present the 204th recommendation of the ILO on transforming from informal economy to formal economy adopted at its 104th session held in 2015 to the parliament, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    National quality policy (Document No – 16)

The firs quality policy was implemented in 1998 for increasing the quality of goods and services in Sri Lanka. The proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to implement the newly prepared National Quality Policy considering objectives of the government in this regard and focusing on facts presented in opinion polls conducted covering the fields of health, education, roads, transportation, and trade and commerce, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Establishment of Sri Lanka Institute of Digital Health Innovation and Commercialization (Document No – 17)

The aggregation of genomic medicine and information and communication technology is called the Digital Health and it is making a great revolution in the health sector. The global investment in digital health shows a great increase in recent past and the future of health sector depends on digital health innovation. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to establish the Sri Lanka Institute of Digital Health Innovation and Commercialization, with public private partnership that enables to cooperate with reputed commercial and research organizations for gaining maximum benefits for the health sector in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    sHErbal cultivation project implemented to promote production of high standard medicinal raw materials for Ayurvedic medicine (Document No – 18)

About 60% of raw materials requirement is imported. As a measure, budget 2016 proposed to introduce the short-term herbal cultivation. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to impelement the above project in Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Monaragala, and Galle Districts, and to purchase the produced raw materials through the sales network of Ayurvedic Drugs Corporation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Revision of fees charged by the Department of Registrar of Companies (Document No – 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to present the gazette issued by him bearing number 1990/12 and dated 25-10-2016 to parliament for approval, regarding the revision of above mentioned fees under the provisions of Companies Act no. 7 of 2007 and Societies Ordinance No. 16 of 1891 amended by the act No. 11 of 2005, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    seed and planting material development project (Document No – 23)

It has been observed that use of quality seed and planting material helps in increasing quality and productivity of harvest. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to implement seed and planting material projects using lands owned by the Ministry of Agriculture and its affiliated institutions which are not used for any productive purpose, for the sustainability of agriculture and food safety, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Provide for Pre trial procedure for minimizing the number of cases (Document No – 24)

The public faces many difficulties with delaying of trials and still there are many trials delayed in courts though various measures have been taken time to time in this regard. The Cabinet has already approved the introduction of Pre Trial Procedures. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament for approval the Civil Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill drafted by the Legal Draftsman and cleared by the Attorney General, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    Amendment of the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Act (Document No – 25)

The Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Act No. 25 of 2002 provides for international mutual assistance in combating transnational crimes. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to amend the above act recognizing the recent developments in transnational crimes such as money laundering, bribery as stipualated by the 16th article of the United Nations Convention on Bribery and Corruption, crimes related to computers and data, reflecting the Sri Lanka's responsibility in fighting transnational crimes and confiscation of properties earned by such crimes, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Initiating public consultation process on media standards and entitlement (Document No – 27)

It has been proposed to establish an independent board to regulate the contents of news published in print media,m broadcasting media (radio and television), and registered websites with the view of promoting professionalism and ethics securing the free, independent and plurality media culture. The proposal made by Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media, to obtain public opinion formally in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.    Land subsidence at Achchuveli, Jaffna District (Document No – 32)

A land subsidence in agricultural lands in Achchuveli, Jaffna has been reported. As the lands in these areas are created of limestone they tend to create cavities and caverns. The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to conduct a study by the National Building Research Organization enebleing the decision making on land utilization of the area, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    sImproving Residential facilities for officers of Police Special Task Force (Document No – 33)

The lack of accommodation facilities to STF officers deployed in Colombo and suburbs has become an issue. The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to construct a new three storied barrack to provide accommodation for 250 officers at an estimated cost of Rs. 74.9 million by removing an old barrack in Gonahena Camp premises, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    Purchase of sports shoes for Sri Lanka Army (Document No – 35)

The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to award the contract for purchasing of 200,000 sports shoes for Sri Lanka Army as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Procurement of required equipment for the Combat Convoy Battalion in Mali (Document No – 36)

Sri Lanka expects to deploy a Combat Convoy Battalion for UN peace keeping operations in Mali and the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to award the contract for purchasing demining and explosive ordnance disposal equipment as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.    Contract for system rehabilitation for reduction of non revenue water generation in south part of the Colombo city (Document No – 37)

The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the above contract of the project no. 2 of the Greater Colombo Water and Waste Water Management Improvement Investment Programme implemented under assistance of Asian Development Bank (ADB) as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee with the view of reducing water leakages and non revenue water, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.    Construction supervision Contract for non revenue water management (Document No – 38)

The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award the above contract of the project no. 1 of the Greater Colombo Water and Waste Water Management Improvement Investment Programme implemented under assistance of Asian Development Bank (ADB) as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee with the view of reducing water leakages and non revenue water, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.    Supply of I.V. Cannula (with injection port and without injection port) in various sizes (Document No – 39)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.    Procurement for supply of 820,000 of blue base dry imagine films (35 cm x 43 cm) to be used in x-ray machines in government hospitals (Document No – 40)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.    Purchase of medicine used for volume replacement of the patients with hypovolaemia (Document No – 41)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender to purchase 7,200,000 bottles of 500 ml Sodium Chloride Intravenous Infusion BP 0.9% w/v or Sodium Chloride Injection USP 0.9% w/v, as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25.    Establishment of a national border management committee (Document No – 46)

Control of boarders of a country is extremely important in its national security. People and Goods exchanged across the Sri Lankan Border is gradually increasing at it is expected that it will reach 10 million persons and 200 million kilograms of goods at 2020. Hence, it is important to properly manage the tasks conducted across the border for maintaining national security, social style and economic prospect of the country. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to establish a National Border Management Committee which is comprised of senior officers/policy makers of government to act as the government's central body for assessment of risks, priorities, and aims in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


26.    Improvement of Urban Interconnected roads (Document No – 49)

It is essential to develop interconnected roads to reduce the traffic congestion and regional transport infrastructure development in Western Province. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to improve 26 damaged interconnected roads with a total length of 30 km in Colombo, Moratuwa, Mahara and Avissawella areas by laying carpet at an estimated cost of Rs. 208.5 million through the Provincial Road Development Authority (Western Province), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

27.    Declaration of National Insurance day (Document No – 50)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to declare 01st of September in each year as the 'National Insurance Day' with the view of educating Sri Lankans on the importance of insurance and encourage all families to obtain an insurance cover, for covering deaths, diseases, and damages to property, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The opening ceremony of the 34th International Cinema Television and Sports Festival was held in Milan, Italy on November 16. FICTS International president Prof. Franco Ascani, Mass Media and Parliamentary Reforms Ministry Secretary Nimal Bopage (the special guest on behalf of the Sri Lankan government), National Sport and Media Development Foundation president Harsha B. Abeykoon, Olympic medal holders, senior officials of the International Olympic Committee and representatives from 116 countries participated.

President Maithripala Sirisena stressed that the media should act in a responsible and acceptable manner while following media ethics and norms, so as to cultivate a positive attitude among people.

“Even though it is regrettable to mention that Sri Lankan media has not clearly understood the bounding duty of them. Therefore, it can be observed that the media has not part and parcel with the forward march of the country,” he noted.

The President made these remarks while addressing an evaluation ceremony of experts in the science and technology fields at the Waters’ Edge Hotel yesterday.

President Sirisena added that the quality of the media is essential and is of paramount importance for the country’s forward march to become a developed country. It is notable that media is duty bound to help in the country’s development programme.

“The quality and responsible conduct of media are vital for the country to stand on its own feet as a developed country.

“Therefore, the media should clearly understand their role and responsibilities. Even though,it can be

observed that certain sections of the Sri Lankan media is interested in digging garbage and very keen to report negative news such as murders, rape cases,disputes, communal issues etc. Besides, such media organizations want to bring political parties, which they support to power. They want to topple the democratically elected government. Such media builds the image of corrupt politicians while destroying the image of others,” he said.

Such a media culture is not available or cannot be seen anywhere in the world, the President added.

“The media has to play a broad role in the country’s forward march by building a strong media culture. The media is duty bound to inculcate good and noble qualities in people such as patriotism, social responsibilities, social-harmony, personnel and social responsibilities rather than arousing hatred, communalism, racism etc. But, it can be seen that the headlines of certain news papers always carry news relating to hatred, conflict and other negative items,” the President said.

“Accordingly, the first page of a newspaper is so powerful as it is strong enough to drive a country forward towards a strong goal,” he added.

He further added that the policy of the government is to facilitate the media and media personnel so as to strengthen media freedom. The government is duty bound to protect and safeguard media freedom and media personnel aiming to protect the right to information of the people. The President requested all experts in various fields, educated people,scientists etc to take responsibility to steer the country towards sustainable development.

A special TV channel, which will only telecast parliamentary proceedings live, will be launched in three months time, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya informed Parliament today.

The Speaker said the proceedings were aired live on Eye Channel from today.

“The Eye Channel will telecast parliamentary proceedings live except on the days where the West Indies, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe one day international tournament matches are on. Eye Chanel had got into an agreement to broadcast cricket matches live and therefore it is not possible to telecast parliamentary proceedings live on those days. Rupawahini will telecast parliamentary proceedings live on the days on which cricket matches are on," the speaker said.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe suggested that the proceedings of constitutional assembly should also be shown live. 

“What we have to do for the motherland is not the easy tasks but face the difficult tasks and win them”, says President Maithripala Sirisena.

“The main political parties of the country have come on to a same path to go on a new journey for the motherland by correcting the faults and defects in the history. Whatever the criticisms are done that journey will be move forward for the victory of the country and the people”, he added.  

The President made these remarks during his visit in the Madurawala, Bulathsinhala area today (Nov. 18). He also engaged in several development activities in the area.

President Sirisena said everybody should get together to build a prosperous Sri Lanka by bringing the grandeur of the ancient kingdoms by protecting the historical foundation, great culture and respectable history.

The President vested the new auditorium of Madurawala Madya Maha Vidyalaya in the Horana Educational Zone with students.

The President who arrived in the school was warmly welcomed by the students of the school. He also had cordial discussions with the children.

President Sirisena declared open the Madurawala Henry Jayawardena Memorial Library. He also planted a Sandal sapling in the library premises to mark this occasion.  He issued the first membership of the library.

The President also declared open the multi-purpose center in Anguruwathota. He also registered the first patient of the ayurvedic medical clinic of the multi-purpose center.

 

01.    Extradition treaty between Sri Lanka and the republic of Belarus (Document No – 08)

The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to enter into an extradition treaty between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Republic of Belarus with the view of developing cooperation between the two countries in prevention and control of crimes and for facilitating the extradition process, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Utilization of Mahaweli Economic zones for renewable energy generation (Document No – 10)

Sri Lanka is bound to reduce emission of greenhouse gases as a member of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Energy generation plays a major role in this regard. The government has accepted the necessity of shifting to renewable energy sources such as wind power, hydropower and solar power instead of thermal power plants that use fossil fuel such as diesel and coal. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to approve as a policy the establishment of renewable power plants in lands, reservoirs and canals that could not be used for agricultural activities and to appoint a Committee of Officials to propose a suitable method in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Amendment of the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act No. 28 of 1996 (Document No – 14)

The above act provides the legal framework for protection of rights of persons with disabilities. Sri Lanka has ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 08th February 2016. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to amend the above act with the view of secure 30 rights including common principles in the said convention in Sri Lanka and to establish an Independent Commission instead of the current National Council established under the above act for providing a better service to persons with disabilities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Commencement of public-private joint ventures for expansion of domestic production of medicines (Document No – 16)

A large portion of medicine requirement of Sri Lanka is imported to Sri Lanka causing a great expenditure annually for the government. It has been proposed to commence public-private joint ventures for production of medicine as a solution to this issue. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to encourage investors to begin joint ventures with the State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation to produce quality medicines at a low cost as recommended by the Committee of Officials appointed to consider this matter, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Establishment of a marine finfish/shellfish hatchery for research activities (Document No – 23)

The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to transfer a land of 05 acres in Kandakuliya area in Kalpitiya to the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) for establishment of a finfish/shellfish hatchery to improve the commercial breeding and culture technology of crabs, sea cucumbers, bivalves, and other finfish and shellfishes with a high demand, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Formulation of a long-term national fisheries policy and action plan (Document No – 24)

The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to implement a 3 year project under technical assistance of Norway with the view of formulating a national policy and action plan for development of the fishery in Sri Lanka, implement foreign training programmes for fishery officials, and to promote Norwegian government investments in the fisheries industry in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Central Expressway – Obtaining consulting services for construction supervision of section from Mirigama to Kurunegala (Document No – 31)

The second section of Central Expressway runs from Mirigama to Kurunegala with a length of 39.29 km. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the above contract as recommended by Cabinet Appointed Consultant Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Entry into three (03) term contracts to purchase of refined petroleum products (Document No – 36)

Contracts for purchase of refined petroleum products have been expired and Sri Lanka Petroleum Corporation has called quotations from registered suppliers for 03 long term contracts to purchase all petroleum products under long term tenders. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Chandima Weerakkody, Minister of Petroleum Resources Development, to award the said 03 long term contracts for the period of 01-12-2016 to 31-07-2017 as recommended by the Special Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Second anniversary of the President's inauguration in office (Document No – 38)

The second anniversary of the President's inauguration in office falls on 08th January 2017 is to be celebrated without unnecessary festivals and displays and all public institutions have been instructed to commence projects that can be implemented immediately under 2017 budget proposals and to commence development activities that are more fruitful to the public in line with this celebration. Above information was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena.

Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) is conducting the Census of Public and Semi Government Sector Employment from 9.30 am to 11.30 today (17th November) with the participation of all employees of the public and semi government sectors.

The objective of this Census is to enumerate all employees of the public and semi government sector, and to compile demographic and socio economic information of these employees. Information compiled through this Census is vital for policymaking and further improving the quality of the public service.

Dr. A.J. Satharasinghe, Director General of DCS request all public and semi-government sector employees to follow the guidelines provided on materials available on the Department’s website (www.statistics.gov.lk)as well as printed materials circulated among public and semi government institutions, and to extend their support for the success of this Census by completing a Census questionnaire today.

The Census of Public and Semi Government Sector Employment will be conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) on 17th November 2016 covering the entire Country. This Census will be conducted from 9.30 am to 11.30 on 17th November 2016 with the participation of all employees of the public and semi government sector.
The first Census of the Public sector employment has been conducted in 1968 by the Public Administration Ministry with DCS’ technical support to enumerating only the permeant employees in the public sector. Subsequent rounds has been conducted in 1972, 1976 and 1976
The Department of Census and Statistics has conducted the first Census on the Public sector employment in 1980 covering all staff including permanent, temporary, casual, contractual employees, daily pay employees and employees on secondment basis. Ever since, the Department has been conducting this Census in 1985, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006. This is the 11th round of the Census which is usually conducted once in four years.
The objective of this Census is to enumerate all employees of the public and semi government sector, and to compile demographic and socio economic information of these employees. Information compiled through this Census are vital for policymaking and further improving the quality of the public service.
Information collected though this Census includes details of the current service station, personal information such as age, sex of the employees, details of the appointment, salary particulars, leave particulars, language proficiency, educational qualifications, details of residence, details pertaining to transport mode used for commuting to work, knowledge on information communication technology, details on non-communicable diseases etc.
Further improvements have been made into the method of conducting the Census, from this round, such as listing of public and semi government sector institutions where about 28,000 institutions have been identified and listed. Furthermore, information will be compiled on the basis of the location of employees than the institution they work for (Institutional Base vs Location Base). Estate workers under the semi government sector are also included in this round of the Census. This Census enumerates all employees in the public and semi government sector covering the entire country within the same day at a given time on 17th November 2016 from 9.30 am to 11.30 am.
There is a special webpage on this Census hosted under DCS official website www.statistics.gov.lk. It includes softcopies of Census documents such as questionnaires, quidelines. and instructional videos explaining how to complete each and every question of the questionnaire that will be used for the Census of Public and Semi-Government Sector Employment. These materials al-e available in Sinhala , Tamil and English medium.
Dr. Amara Satharasinghe, Director General of DCS request all public and semigovernment sector employees to follow the !~u ide l ines provided on materials available on the website as well as printed materials circulated among public and semi government institutions, and to extend their support for the success of this Census by completing the Census questionnaire on 17th November 2016 from 930 am to 11.30 am.

Opening Remarks

  • The structural weakness in the fiscal sector warrants immediate attention without which sustained growth in the long term may not be a reality. The façade of lies churned out did not make good reading for seasoned economists. Fiscal deficit falling from 10% of GDP in 2001 to 5.7% by 2014, total debt, falling from 102% of GDP in 2002 to 72% of GDP in 2014 envisaging to make us believe that some fiscal consolidation had taken place.
  • Declining government revenue to GDP ratio portrays a major macroeconomic concern for the country and this trend has to be reversed on a priority basis. Sri Lanka’s tax revenue was 19% of GDP in 1990 falling drastically to 10.2% of GDP by 2014. Ironically, the growth of tax revenue in absolute terms was just 4.4% in 2014 much below the nominal GDP growth rate of 7.3%. Thus, tax revenue had been unable to keep pace with economic expansion evidenced in recent years which is a serious phenomenon. It is also unfortunate to note that previous attempts to enhance fiscal revenue, have failed miserably during the past.
  • Unbelievably there are about 35 taxes and levies in the system. Some of the laws are outdated and not readily understood by the taxpayers and only a few who are conversant about tax laws could fathom the intricate nature of the system of taxation in Sri Lanka.
  • Falling VAT collection is the main cause of the decline in tax revenue in recent years and the figures depict the malady in no uncertain terms. Revenue from VAT accounted for 41% of total tax collection in 2005, and it falls to 26% in 2014. Further, VAT collection as a share of GDP has decreased sharply from 5.8% in 2004 to 2.7% by 2014. Income tax dilution also had kept pace, falling from a 2.7% of GDP in 2006 to 1.9% of GDP in 2014. As such, although the national income had increased there is no commensurate tax income. Several inherent features are noteworthy as to why tax revenue is falling. The main culprit could be weak compliance due to tax administration issues. A multitude of tax exemptions granted by various institutions also had been hindering positive administration of tax.
  • A majority of the revenue is derived from indirect taxes and the revenue from direct taxes is very low. At the same time, many who could afford to pay taxes and also who are liable for payment of taxes are not in the tax system. It is a well known fact that tax compliance methodology has to improve in an endeavor to eliminate evasion. Further, tax administration also needs strengthening.
  • Tax reforms in isolation to bolster revenue would not contribute to strengthen the fiscal system. It needs to be supported with appropriate expenditure rationalization measures as well which is of utmost importance. The question is how we could realize this necessity.
  • I very strongly believe and am convinced that the line ministries and departments could trim down their current expenditure levels. The time has come to critically analyze and evaluate the expenditure needs of the line ministries and departments to rationalize unnecessary expenditure and eliminate excessive administrative overheads which are spent at the expense of the limited direct taxpayers and also the revenue from indirect taxes, including from the poorer segment of the society.
  • As such, I strongly advocate the concept of zero budgeting in formulating the national budget. In fact, with this budget 2016, we have brought in to focus the concept of zero budgeting under which the spending agencies will have to justify each and every item in their respective budget before requesting for allocations. This process will be strictly adhered to in subsequent budgets as well. Honourable Speaker, zero budgeting although derived from accounting principles is practiced in many countries in the preparation of national budgets and I wonder why we took such a long time in the implementation of zero budgeting.
  • From January 2016, the General Treasury will start follow-up actions on reviewing the allocations for respective ministries and institutions. As a responsible government sensitive to the difficulties of the people, we have managed to maintain our commitments by increasing salaries and pensions substantially. In the meantime, we have to also realize that the employment in the public sector has quadrupled over the last several years.
  • The obvious consequence of this phenomenon had been the significant increase in the salary bill, which we believe has escalated to the maximum and may be beyond any yardstick of rationality unless the efficiency of the Public Sector is improved drastically. Hence, we have to look into the most appropriate ways of maintaining the continuity and sustainability of public sector emoluments. This among others includes improving efficiency, effectiveness and productivity of the public sector service delivery.

Budget Proposals

Encouraging Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises

The importance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in our economy is underpinned by the role it plays in the creation of employment, addressing the issues of income distribution, regional development and social cohesion. Today MSME sector is a key component of our economic strategy. The thrust areas that has a huge potential in this economy are furniture, IT, dairy industry, horticulture, floriculture, food industry, fruit and vegetable, inland fishing, beauty culture, ornamental fish and etc.

Yet in spite of the significant contribution to the economy, MSME’s find expansion difficult, mainly due to the obstacles they face in accessing funding, both equity and debt.

Our government is therefore keen to partner the growth of MSME’s. As such we have already formulated a “SME Policy” that covers a gamut of issues of the SME sector.

At the same time, a Bill to govern Micro Finance business will be presented to this House and a Regulatory Authority will be established to streamline this sector. I also propose that all Micro Financing Agencies be registered with this proposed Authority for an annual fee of Rs. 25,000/- per unit. As announced by the Prime Minister in his policy statement on the 5 November 2015, we will also be establishing an advisory committee to study the issues faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector and our future action in the SME sector will be guided by their recommendations.

I note that the established financial institutions including Banks have shown a marked reluctance to lend to innovative MSME due to high administration costs and high risks involved in these sectors. Financial Institutions have become over reliant on collateral based financing which new entrepreneurs as well as existing entrepreneurs are not in a position to provide. Therefore, I propose to implement a MSMEs Credit Guarantee Scheme in 2016 with Rs.500 million contributed by the government as initial capital together with the assistance of selected financial institutions. Under this scheme the 75 percent of the principal amount if in default of the total facility will be guaranteed.

This will expand MSME’s access to financing options which are relatively cheaper and longer termed. In this regard, we have also been successful in obtaining a credit line of USD 100 million from the ADB to support MSME lending at concessional rates. Further, the funding schemes such as Saubhagya scheme and the Poverty Alleviation Micro-finance Project (PAMP) that Central Bank has implemented to help SMEs will be merged into one large SME facility. The merger of these funds will create synergies that will enable the Central Bank to serve the MSME sector better.

Venture Capital

I propose to initiate a venture capital approach for providing equity financing facilities to SMEs through the establishment of one fund that will be a “Fund of Funds”. This will compriseof stakeholders such as Banks, Insurance Companies, State-Owned funds such as EPF, ETF and foreign funds. I would like to invite the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) to contribute to the Fund and while encouraging the private sector conglomerates too to be part of this initiative.

The Fund will lend to responsible Venture Capital firms for a guaranteed minimum rate of return, and the Venture Capital Firms will make equity investments in the SMEs. In addition to the equity investments, these firms will provide the SME’s with the most required advisory services, including financial planning, information technology, marketing strategies, etc. and ensure the growth of the SMEs to gain healthy long term returns.

In order to promote this initiative, I propose to reduce the applicable Corporate Income Tax by 50 percent for Venture Capital Firms for a period of 5 years. This will commence by 1 April, 2016.

Incubators Assisting MSMEs

I propose to construct mini-industrial parks which will be incubators in Moneragala, Puttalam, Jaffna/Vanni, and Ampara. I encourage the private sector also to join in this endeavor. In order to promote such investment in designated areas, then applicable tax rate, will be reduced by 50 percent for a period of 03 years from the year in which the profit is generated. I propose to allocate Rs. 150 million for this purpose.

Further, I understand that the SME’s have an issue in marketing their products. Given the lack of funds at SMEs for engaging in marketing and advertising activities, their products do not get displayed prominently at Super markets and shops. Therefore, I urge the large super markets and retail sellers to lend a hand to the SME’s by providing them with some prominent shelf space at a reasonable price.

Agriculture

The President and the Prime Minister, have focused their attention on formulating a new agricultural policy. Our policy is anchored on the requirement to make the country self-sufficient in maize, soya beans, chilies, onions, and potatoes by 2018 through crop diversification and productivity improvements and graduate into an agri-business from subsistence economy whereby we will access export markets by 2020.

We also recognize that the optimal strategy to increase yields from the sector lies in strong collaboration between the private and public sectors, which will strengthen the supply chain management in agriculture. We encourage the private sector to take the lead. As such, I propose several measures including making available a fiscal regime to companies that develop seeds and plants and making available unutilized or underutilized government land for agriculture on request.

Investment to Agriculture especially into productivity improvement is a crying need. To this end, availability of quality seeds plays an important role in ensuring better productivity. As such, to encourage greater collaboration between the private sector and government to produce high quality seeds, unutilized state land would be allocated as an incentive. Therefore, I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.1,000 million for this purpose. Half tax holidays will be granted to companies that use drip irrigation methods, greenhouse technology and endeavor to introduce high yielding seeds. At the same time, having recognized the importance of mechanization in productivity improvement, I also propose to remove the import duties pertaining to import of agriculture machinery and equipment.

At the same time, to strengthen the supply chain linkages via collaborative partnerships, it is proposed that Agriculture Extension Officers to be permitted to disseminate their knowledge to the private sector farms in addition to their normal duties at a fee.

Storage and marketing

I propose to set up warehouses with state of the art technology to address the issue of post-harvest losses, which is about 30-40 percent. These warehouses provide good quality storage facilities for farmers during glut periods to store their produce such as paddy, maize, gingelly, pepper, black gram. Using the receipts issued by the warehouse, 50 percent of the value will be paid to the farmers by the bank, thereby solving the immediate cash flow of the farmer. However, once the prices are favorable the produce could be sold in the market for a better price. This method ensures the farmer is not exploited by unscrupulous middlemen while ensuring that farmers also reap benefit from the higher market prices that will prevail during the off season. Already the government has constructed warehouses in the Districts of Anuradhapura, Monaragala while the Mannar warehouse is under construction. This method also benefits the consumer as price of the produce will be lower, given that the cost incurred from the farm gate to the final consumer will now decrease with the elimination of the middlemen.

As such it is proposed that Rs.1,000 million be allocated to construct 3 more warehouses in the Districts of Polonnaruwa, Kilinochchi and Ratnapura (Embilipitiya) while completing the balance work of the Mannar Warehouse.

Guaranteed Price

I propose to give a guaranteed price of Rs. 50/kg for Keeri Samba, Rs.41/kg for Samba and Rs.38/Kg for Nadu and other varieties. This would help the consumer to get rice at Rs. 65/kg on average. The country’s rice production has increased. We will be utilizing these stocks to be distributed amongst the Samurdhi recipients who are relatively more susceptible to malnutrition. Thus this proposed scheme will improve their nutrient levels.

For this purpose we will be utilizing around 44,000 metric tons of rice. I believe it is time we export our rice and as such we also encourage the farmers to produce rice varieties that could access export markets. As such, I encourage the Export Development Board to find markets and engage in a branding exercise of Sri Lankan rice.

Chronic Kidney Disease Unknown of Aetiology (CKDU)

I propose to provide the existing fertilizer subsidy scheme to small scale paddy farmers. A cash grant of Rs. 25,000/- covering the production year, Yala and Maha, will be provided to farmers for a maximum extent of 1 hectare. This will allow the farmer greater flexibility in selecting his farming inputs and I am confident that this will increase productivity. For this purpose I have allocated Rs.37,500 million, which is an increase over Rs.35,000 million provided in 2015.

Fruit and Vegetable Industry

In a bid to boost this industry, it is proposed to extend interest support on 50 percent of the interest on loans to be taken from Banks by individuals or companies who enter this industry.

Machinery utilized for this purpose will also be allowed to import free from duties and a qualifying payment deduction will be available in addition to depreciation. I encourage the private sector to optimize land usage through intercropping, use of high yield plants and seeds, and technology. Underutilized or unutilized government land will also be leased out to fruit and vegetable farmers on request.

It is also proposed to establish 5 cold rooms managed by private companies for vegetables and fruits within close proximity to economic centres situated in Nuwara Eliya, Dambulla, Embilipitiya, Keppitipola and Thambuthegama. It is envisaged that this will mitigate the post-harvest losses while ensuring price stability in the market. I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.2,000 million for this purpose.

Dairy Industry

I propose to reduce the maximum retail price of a 400g domestically manufactured powdered milk packet to Rs.295 from the existing price of Rs.325. The government will provide the domestic manufacturers with a subsidy of Rs.30 per 400 g packet sold for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.1,000 million. This will have the dual impact of helping local producers as well as reducing cost of living.

The country’s dairy sector contribution to the economy is very nominal but it has immense potential to grow. As such, to encourage commercial scale dairy farming on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, underutilized or unutilized government land will be provided for a minimum level of investment of Rs 25 million. I would also like to propose to enter into PPP arrangements for such government land that is unutilized or underutilized to grow high yielding grass on an out grower basis.

I propose to grant upfront depreciation on the machinery and a reduction of import taxes on machinery and equipment related to the dairy industry.

Since liquid milk consumption has still not gained momentum in the country, I propose to entrust the Ministry of Upcountry New Villages, Estate Infrastructure and Community Development and the Ministry of Health, Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine to undertake a massive campaign to promote liquid milk consumption in the country.

Fisheries

In keeping with the government’s commitment of providing social safety network to fishermen from vulnerabilities and endemic to their work, we will introduce a life  insurance cover of Rs.1 million for the fishermen who meet with accidents when at sea. This insurance scheme will also cover the expenses incurred in the search and rescue operations.

Approximately Rs. 5,000 million worth of canned fish has been imported to the country annually on average in the last 5 years. Given the potential in the industry, I encourage the private sector to engage in fish canning. To incentivize this industry, I propose to implement a buy back mechanism through Lak Sathosa Ltd., which would be sold at a concessional price of Rs. 125 each. This will help reduce cost of living.

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 300 million to Lak Sathosa. Moreover, to protect the local fisheries industry, I propose to increase the Special Commodity Levy (SCL) on the import of fish to Rs. 50/-. Further, import duty on fishing nets will also be reduced.

To facilitate the fisheries industry, I propose to develop and upgrade local fishery harbours with state of the art technology to include cold storages as well. I also propose to allocate further Rs. 750 million for the development of Fisheries Harbours in Chilaw, Mirissa, Kalmunai, Valvettithurai, Karai Nagar and Puranawella. These harbours will also facilitate repair and manufacturing of boats as well.

It is proposed to create agro and fish processing facilities in geographical locations close to the farm gate. This will be cost effective as facilities can be shared. Thus it is proposed to create an Agro Livestock and Fish Processing Park connecting the districts of Anuradhapura, Vavuniya and Kilinochchi. I propose to allocate Rs. 100 million for this purpose.

Inland fisheries

This sector is underutilized. Therefore, I propose to allocate Rs.100 million to National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) to undertake programmes to enhance fish breeding capacity.

I also propose to set up an Aquaculture Park in Batticaloa District by providing an enabling environment for the potential private sector investors to develop coastal aquaculture without causing environmental degradation. Aquaculture Park provides an ‘investment ready’ platform for organizations that want to set up commercial aquaculture operations.

This Aquaculture Park will be developed and managed as a PPP. I propose to allocate Rs 100 million for the initial activities.

The Shrimp industry has been faced with difficulties in the immediate past which has remained unattended. However, given the potential in the shrimp industry I propose to provide capital and working capital requirements of the shrimp farmers, hatchery operators and processors through the proposed ADB supported SME credit line. I also propose to provide guarantees through the SME credit guarantee fund to those who are engaged in shrimp farming.

I propose to introduce a deep sea fishing licensing scheme where one license holder will have to engage in collaboration with at least 100 persons in the fishing community.

Poultry

I encourage the local poultry industrialists to further invest for expansion and to improve productivity and quality. I also encourage them to take advantage of Sri Lanka being recognized as a bird flu free country in the region to penetrate overseas markets, especially the Middle East. Government will extend the maximum support in this regard.

Plantation Economy

Regional Plantation Companies (RPC) that were established in 1992 have now run its course. It is time to rejuvenate the RPCs by restructuring them into small manageable units so that all RPCs could seek listing in the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE).

To strengthen the activities of the RPCs, I also propose to relax restrictions on the usage of RPC land in the cultivation of different crops. However, leases of RPC’s that commits to a long term investment for replanting and modernizing will be extended for 50 years, with management fees to be reviewed.

Tea

Tea has remained a key export of our country but the value addition is not as significant to the extent expected. The industry is presently facing issue of significant dip in prices in the international market. This has had an impact on small and medium scale tea growers. Therefore so as to address these issues, we propose to establish a Working Committee consisting of both the government and private sector officials.

Tea Blending

Sri Lanka being one of the main tea producers of the world has lost ground on value addition to centers like Dubai. In the last few months the tea industry made strong submissions to liberalize tea imports to Sri Lanka. As such with the aim of developing Sri Lanka as a tea hub I propose to liberalize the tea imports to the country within a regulatory framework with a view to encouraging value addition through blending etc. I note that strict labeling requirements will be made mandatory so that the brand name “Ceylon Tea” remains uncompromised.

Rubber

A Master Plan has been developed by the Ministry of Plantation in collaboration with the stakeholders of the rubber sector to carry out feasibility studies. Technical assistance has also being obtained by the government for this purpose.

This plan addresses a wide range of issues faced by the sector and has also identified a way forward. As such I propose to allocate Rs.100 million to the Ministry of Plantation to support the implementation of this plan. Further, I urge manufactures to utilize locally produced natural rubber for their value added products instead of the imported rubber.

Coconut

The coconut industry too is faced with the issue of lack of coconuts for value addition. This is because a significant portion of the production is used by our households for food. As requested by the coconut industrialists, it is proposed to import coconut for value addition in a specially designated area regulated by the relevant government entities, from where such products will be exported. The proposed importation of coconuts will be allowed subject to strict adherence to quarantine requirements. I also propose to allocate Rs.250 million to coconut cultivation rehabilitation programme, which includes the promotion of practices such as mulching.

In order to incentivize the tea and rubber industries, a two year tax exemption period will be granted for companies engaged in tea and rubber plantation.

Further, with a view to develop the tea, rubber and coconut industries, it is vital that widespread research be conducted while such new findings and techniques be applied effectively. Hence, I propose to strengthen the Tea Research Institute, Rubber Research Institute and Coconut Research Institute, so that they can engage in research in improving productivity, finding new varieties, and etc. For this purpose, I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.200 million within a period of 2 years.

Other Crops

In support of these industries, the Sugarcane Research Institute and the Palmyrah Research Institute will be strengthened for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.100 million.

The arecanut industry has been neglected in the last decade with almost no support from the government. Given the potential in the industry, I encourage commercial cultivation of arecanuts and encourage the establishment of an arecanuts value addition zones, to take advantage of the export markets.

Spices and Allied Products

History of the Spice trade in Sri Lanka dates as far back as 7th Century. However, Sri Lankan spice trade has not yet lived upto its expectations, thereby denying the country valuable export earnings.

To address issues faced by the spice industry, the government will collaborate with the Spice Council to undertake a branding exercise of Sri Lankan spices globally, for which, I propose to allocate Rs. 150 million. In order to enhance the production and generate more export revenue, I propose to facilitate the usage of unutilized fertile government land to be leased out to the private sector to grow spices such as cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, etc.

Cinnamon

I also encourage RPCs to engage in contract cultivation, especially spices such as pepper, cardamom etc. I further propose to allocate Rs. 50 million to strengthen the Cinnamon Research Unit at the Department of Export Agriculture.

Sri Lanka has the monopoly for the supply of “True Cinnamon” with over 85 percent supply share in the world market. Value chain of cinnamon is under many different agencies which stifles the growth of this industry. Therefore, I propose to set up a Cinnamon Development Authority with private sector participation to bring all activities in the value chain under one entity and I propose to allocate Rs 50 million for this purpose.

Further, in order to enhance the skills required for cinnamon industry, the Cinnamon Training School will be expanded. I propose to allocate Rs 50 million for this purpose.

Given that value addition in this cinnamon industry is at a minimal level, it is proposed to allocate a sum of Rs. 50 million to National Science Foundation to fund research undertaken on cinnamon and cinnamon related activities.

To encourage export of spices, cesses imposed on, pepper, cloves and nutmeg will be removed.

Revival of the Rural Economy

14,022 Grama Niladari divisions will be developed into 2,500 cluster villages as complete rural economic units. Accordingly, projects will be undertaken to develop infrastructure of the villages, and livelihood development to empower local community facilitating an upliftment of their standards of living.

Large scale agricultural enterprises in which farmers can be members will be established under the plan to develop the rural economy. For this rural reawakening programme, I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.1.5 million to each village which will amount to Rs.21,000 million.

I also propose to establish a new economic zone in Vavuniya, for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.200 million to the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs.

I propose to allocate Rs.2,000 million to rehabilitate small tanks and canals to support rural agriculture.

National Environment Conservation Programme

The President has initiated a 3 year National Environmental Conservation Programme considering the impact it has on all spheres of life while managing the Carbon foot print of our country by implementing the best practices in this respect. For these activities and for additional programmes relating to child protection, drug prevention, agriculture, I propose to allocate Rs.2,000 million.

Wild Life

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 4,000 million to be utilized within three years to programmes aimed specially at protecting wild life and addressing the human elephant conflict.

Gem and Jewelry

To promote the sale of gems and jewelry and to attract tourists, I propose Sri Lanka to hold “Gem, Jewelry and Diamond” auctions in April and October every year. I also propose a “Gem Emporium” to be established by the private sector in Ratnapura, and further, to harness the benefits of increasing tourism, private sector is encouraged to open duty free gem and jewelry shops at the airport.

In order to protect the world class local jewelry craftsman, a 10 percent cess on imported jewelry will be imposed

With all this support and encouragement, we expect the export earnings from Gems and Jewelry sector to reach USD 2 billion by 2018.

Gold

I propose Central Bank to adopt a scheme where 50 licenses will be issued allowing import of gold free of all import duties. These licensees will trade the imported gold to jewelry manufactures. No person will be permitted to trade gold without the said license.

Primary Industries

We will be creating specialized agricultural and fishery export zones in the country. The Ministry of Primary Industries will be allocated Rs. 2,000 million for the establishment of the proposed agricultural and fishery export zones.

Digitalization of the Economy

As promised by our government and as part of our ICT transformation strategy, we have already provided free limited Wifi in selected public places. We will also be extending free Wifi to all our state universities as well.

This government is determined to implement a comprehensive Digital Development Strategy during the next three years, which will have a significant impact on the economy.

As such, it is envisaged that by end 2018 all the government buildings including Divisional Secretariats offices, Provincial Councils, Pradeshiya Sabhas, Sub Post offices and Police Stations will be connected electronically. This will enable the servicing of around 70 percent of their day-to-day transactions online.

National Digital Identity (NDI)

We also propose to introduce a National Digital Identity (NDI), which will ensure that all financial and non-financial digital transactions to be transpired in a secure manner. NDI will have a unique number in all other relevant data bases, namely, passports, tax file, customs documents, vehicle registration, voter registers, welfare registers, bank data bases, utility bills etc. Apart from using it to enhance tax collections, it can also serve to regularize various other systems such as welfare payments which will help reduce corruption, delays, waste and enhance efficiency.

National Payment Platform

Our digital strategy includes the introduction of the National Payment Platform (NPP) enabling the public to transfer funds from any of their bank accounts through the mobile phone for the payment of goods and services using their NDI. The National Payment Platform will bring in savings for the government by increasing efficiency thereby reducing cash movement and the cash float in the market.

I propose to form a special purpose company under the Information and Communication Technology Authority (ICTA) to bring about sharing of telecommunication resources efficiently and to protect air waves and the environment. All the fiber optics owned by telecommunication companies and other authorities including the Ceylon Electricity Board, Road Development Authority and Sri Lanka Railways as well as spectrum and mobile towers are to be brought into this company.

Single Window Concept

We also envisage the implementing of a single window concept for citizen centric services integrating with the national digital identity, in the provision of public services including hospital services, land matters and Samurdi payments. The state land management system and the Land Hub System will also be implemented as part of the single window concept.

200 smart digital classrooms

Initially 200 smart digital classrooms will be established by 2016 and another 1,000 digital classrooms by 2017 across the country.

The government is committed to an Open Government Partnership (OGP). The implementation of the national big data platform will further help Sri Lanka to meet the requirement of OGP.

I propose to allocate Rs. 10,000 million for the purpose of implementing an advanced digitalization programme of economy.

Investment Promotion

Our government will restructure the BOI, the Export Development Board and Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority with a view to improve operational efficiency and to facilitate investments. Until the restructuring process is completed, an organization under the name “Agency for Development” will be established.

We have identified key thrust areas which has a potential for investment over USD 2 billion to be as follows:

Oil Refinery, Renewable energy, Integrated car manufacturing, Manufacturing Steel bridges for the region,  Fertilizer, manufacturing triple super phosphate, Satellite technology, Air craft repair and logistical support, Integrated sugar industry

In this context, some of the key impediments to attracting investment will be addressed as follows:

I propose to remove the tax imposed on the leasing of land to foreigners and also to consider the removal of restrictions on ownership on identified investments imposed through the Land (Restrictions on Alienation) Act, which has been an impediment for attracting investments to the country.

Exchange Controls

Exchange Controls have been a key point of contention in attracting investments. As such, I propose to repeal the present archaic and draconian Exchange Controls Act and introduce an investor friendly Foreign Exchange Management Bill (FEMB), which would help attract foreign flows from the SAARC and the world at large.

In order to promote foreign investment inflows, the income from dividends on investment made by non-citizens and foreign companies in listed shares through inward remittances will be exempted from income tax.

The Agency for Development which will replace the BOI, will ensure that applications for foreign investment are completed to commence business within 50 days. This will certainly be a game changer in promoting investments.

Export Processing Zones

The existing Export Processing Zones (EPZs) are badly in need of a facelift if we are to retain and attract more investments. I therefore propose to entrust the management of these zones to private sector Management Companies with the necessary skills.

The BOI will also actively engage in setting up of new EPZs and once they are in operation, the management of new zones will also be vested with the private sector Management Companies.

Highly environmentally sensitive industries will be facilitated to operate in specially designated areas such as Puttalam, Hambanthota and Kilinochchi. Government lands and investment related tax concessions will be provided to investors who invest in lagging regions of the country given that the government’s policy of ensuring an equitable development in all parts of the country.

In order to encourage the investors to invest in these areas, I propose to grant a 50 percent tax reduction for a period of 5 years to any new company setting up facilities in such areas with a minimum investment of US dollars 10 million (excluding land and building) or 500 new employment opportunities (with new EPF Numbers). This period will be extended to 8 years if the number of employees exceeds 800. Various other concessionary provisions which are in existence will become redundant with these new concessions. .

Lubricant

I propose to liberalize the lubricant market and I encourage the companies to venture into more value added products with high investment. Further I propose to remove lubricants from BOI negative list.

Bitumen

I also propose to liberalize the Bitumen market so as to enable the expeditious rehabilitation and construction of roads and expressways.

I encourage the expansion and modernization of existing business by investing in machineries and based on the creation of new employment the profits from such expansion will be subjected to half tax rate for 3 years.

Revival of Underperforming Enterprises and Underutilized Assets Act

We wish to review and make the necessary revisions to the Revival of Underperforming Enterprises and Underutilized Assets Act No 43 of 2011, which was introduced by the previous government where many investors were harassed.

Strategic Development Project Act

The Strategic Development Project Act will be continued to be effective for existing companies that have been availed the concessions under the last government. For new investments, instead of Strategic Development Project Act, a new investment Act will be enacted. I propose to extend tax incentives to those private sector companies who wish to invest in mixed development projects that will have a significant impact on the landscape of the country. However, those companies that have already applied for concessions will be made privy to the same in the interim period, pending new legislations.

Super Gain Taxes

We imposed super gain taxes, and many companies complied. This was imposed as a one-off tax. Therefore, I wish to inform this house that there will be no such super gain taxes in future.

Inward Remittances and Investment flows

I propose to engage with international agencies that can provide an insurance to ensure security of their investments and inward remittances. Further, in line with the liberalization of the exchange controls, I propose to abolish Securities Investment Account (SIA) through which the foreign investors have been requested to channel their investments to the country. Instead, I propose that investors should be allowed to bring in money to Sri Lanka through any bank account existing in the formal banking system.

The Government shall not take any criminal action against any persons making inward remittances of such monies held overseas through the banking channel except in instances where the proceeds are the result of terrorism, drugs, human trafficking and corruption.

I also propose to expand the scope of the exemption available under the Inland Revenue Act for services rendered outside Sri Lanka, provided all transactions are made through the banking channels. Therefore, I encourage entities to make use of these provisions.

Bunkering industry

I encourage the private sector to engage in deep sea bunkering, for which licenses will be issued through competitive transparent bidding process.

To encourage ship building, ship breaking and ship repair activities, for which I propose to allocate government land in Hambanthota and Trincomalee.

We also encourage the private sector to partner the public sector in manufacturing Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) in the country. This will result in generating savings in foreign exchange due to reduction in fertilizer imports while also providing relief to the farmers through affordable fertilizer.

Export Promotion

Sri Lanka’s merchandise export, as a share of GDP has declined from 33.3 percent in 2000 to 14 percent in 2014 while Sri Lanka’s share in the global export market also has shrunk from 0.09 per cent to 0.06 per cent during the same period reflecting requirement for further measures to exploit its potential and improve its relative position through export diversification and bilateral regional trading agreements.

A high level body who can take policy decisions and clear bottlenecks will be formed to ensure successful implementation and effective monitoring of the export strategy of the country. Therefore, an Export Development Council of Ministers (EDCM) chaired by the President, as mandated by Statute and comprising of the Prime Minister and other relevant Ministers, will be appointed. This would synergize the strengths of all the stakeholders involved in export promotion, development and facilitation by removing the duplication of work among institutions, ensuring regular monitoring of the progress, taking corrective actions and effectively moving towards the achievement of medium to long term targets on exports.

Export Import Bank

I propose to set up an Export Import Bank (EXIM Bank) to facilitate tapping of such opportunities, with an initial capita of Rs. 25 billion, subscribed jointly by the government and the industry. As such I propose to allocate Rs. 50 million as seed capital being the contribution of the Government EXIM bank will be operational from 01 April, 2016. It is also envisaged to list this company in the CSE.

Sri Lankan Diplomatic missions

I also propose to make it mandatory for commercial sections of Sri Lankan Diplomatic missions to provide a market guide on products and services of interest to local businesses periodically which will be made available on the websites of the Department of Commerce and Export Development Board (EDB).

Further, EDB would be strengthened to enhance export promotion activities and I also propose that EDB should actively be engaged in exploring new markets for Sri Lankan exports and carry out extensive brand promotion particularly for IT, Spices, Gem and Jewelry and to find new markets.

Official Reserves

It has been found that exporters are keeping around 30 percent or over USD 3 billion of the export earnings outside of Sri Lanka. Our government through this budget has given many incentives to the exporters and our commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent business environment in itself should make our businesses happy. It is time that they too reciprocated. They must deliver now. Given that we have now entered into a flexible exchange rate policy, I see no reason why there should be an excuse for exporters not to bring their foreign funds back to Sri Lanka. Therefore, I urge all Sri Lankan exporters to remit their export proceeds in full with immediate effect. This will further strengthen the macro fundamentals that will create the platform for a better economic environment

US$ 10 billion reserves by end June 2016

I do not have to re-emphasize the importance of strengthening foreign reserves to improve the resilience of our economy. With the enhanced inflows generated from exports of goods and services and investments inflows, I expect the official reserves of the country will increase to USD 10 billion by end June 2016.

International Trade

The existing Imports and Exports Control Act has created a license regime and has no teeth to control our country being a dumping ground for substandard goods. As such, I propose to introduce a new legislation replacing the existing Act that will create an improved level playing field for domestic industries and ensure a more efficient import export system in the country.

In order to strengthen our international trade policy framework, the government plans to incorporate an International Trade Agency. I also propose to explore the possibility of entering into Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with countries such as United States, China, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, South Africa and Japan, and also to enhance exports to EU through the GSP+ scheme.

Land

I propose to introduce a “land bank” which is an electronic database of state-owned lands. I propose to allocate Rs. 500 million for this purpose. ICTA will ensure quick migration to an electronic data base. Subsequently, this database can be extended to contain records of the privately owned land as well.

Housing

I propose to provide 100,000 units of housing through private public partnerships (PPP) within a period of 5 years to these shanty dwellers ensuring that relocation will not affect their livelihoods and social networks.

Government envisages collaborating with the private sector to provide middle level government and private sector employees with 150,000 housing units while senior officials of the government sector will be provided with 5,000 housing units at reasonable prices.

These houses will be constructed on state-owned lands in Colombo, Jaffna, Kandy, Matara, Batticaloa, Puttlam and Kurunegala. Other community based facilities will also be built around these units. Credit facilities will also be provided to government officials to enable the purchase of such houses, and half tax rate will be granted to such private investors.

Further, our government will undertake new rural housing schemes to uplift the living standards of the rural community. The government will share the cost with the occupant, with the government contribution being a maximum of Rs.300,000 per house (milestone payments) with a floor area of at least 500 square feet. It is envisaged that at least 1,000 such houses will be built in each electorate and I propose to allocate Rs.4,500 million for this purpose.

Necessary legislative enactments will be brought about so that all permit holders of land and houses with occupancy of over 10 years, under the Land Development Ordinance, including the Swarnabhoomi and Udagama, will be given ownership. This will also be extended to those living for more than 10 years in government owned houses and estate sector houses as well.

Local Authority Rates

I propose that the rates charged by local bodies should not exceed 15 percent of the annual value of commercial entities. I also propose to exempt the rates on properties where the current annual rate is Rs. 500 or less.

Also I propose to allow foreigners to borrow 40 percent of their investment in condominiums from banks in local currency.

Construction

I propose the construction companies who seek overseas markets to be granted the opportunity to continue with the tax exemption on the income generated outside Sri Lanka.

Further, any foreign contractor entering Sri Lanka to undertake construction work should enter into a joint venture agreement with a local contractor.

I propose to remove the Construction Industry Guarantee Fund Levy, to encourage small and medium scale contractors and to create an improved level playing field. The proposed National Housing Bank will provide the necessary guarantees together with a dedicated and focused operation that will support the construction industry.

I propose to introduce a Payment Guarantee Security Act which will provide adequate cover in recovering their payments.

Construction sector is faced with the lack of building materials such as sand. To encourage private sector to import machinery necessary for purifying sea sand in the deep sea, which could be used for construction, I propose cost of such imports be considered as a double deduction, for tax purpose.

To address the short supply and high prices of building materials such as steel, tiles and sanitary ware, import related duties will be revised downwards. Further, I propose to remove tiles, ceramic, and sanitary ware, from the negative list of the BOI.

The import duties on cranes and concrete mixers will be removed. Also the age limit applicable for imports of heavy equipment machinery used in the construction industry will be extended to 10 years from the present 7 years.

I propose to increase the mobilization advance granted to small and medium scale contractors for government contracts of a value of less than Rs. 50 million to 30% with the objective of improving their cash flows.

I propose to introduce a PPP program with the private sector for practical training and an allowance of Rs 10,000 will be paid monthly to the trainees by the government during the training period limited to 3 months. It is envisaged that at least 7,500 youth will be trained in masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, aluminum extrusion etc. on a quarterly basis. I propose to allocate Rs. 500 million for this purpose.

Tourism

I propose to provide training to youth keen to join the hospitality industry in collaboration with the private sector. For a 3-month standard training course, 50 percent of the course fee subject to a maximum of 15,000/- will be borne by the

Government, and it is targeted to train a minimum of 3,000 youth every quarter. I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.100 million for this purpose.

Further, as a source of encouragement for the private sector hotels willing to establish training schools on their own, I propose to provide tax benefits in line with the triple deduction made available for skilled development.

MICE  Triangle

To encourage “Meetings Incentives Conferencing and Exhibitions” or “MICE” as it is called, it is proposed to establish the necessary infrastructure to create a MICE  Triangle consisting of the BMICH, Nelum Pokuna Theatre and the New Town Hall.

A convention hall with state of the art facilities will be built adjacent to the Town hall. The proposed facility will have a seating capacity of at least 7,000 and will be built in collaboration with the private sector. As such to encourage such investments, I propose to grant a 50 per cent tax holiday for 5 years for companies incorporated specifically to engage in “MICE” activities. I also propose to allocate Rs.3,000 million for this purpose.

To encourage spending by the tourists and to evolve into the shopping paradise of the region, I propose to revise import taxes on garments, shoes, electronic and electrical items and other accessories.

Money Changers

I also propose to liberalize the foreign currency changing business, subject to a license fees and guidelines issued by the Central Bank. Sri Lanka has an immense potential to attract cultural, religious, environmental and medical health care tourists. Steps will be taken to transform and upgrade the cultural triangle sites, Eastern province beaches, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla and upcountry sites as sought after tourist attractions. Special emphasis will be placed on developing Bentota, Dedduwa, Mirissa, and Colombo Fort locality as tourist zones with the participation of the private sector. Further, Galle will be developed as a heritage city while preserving the Galle Fort in its age old splendor. I propose to allocate Rs. 500 million for these endeavors.

Regulating Medical/healthcare tourism

Medical/healthcare tourism especially our traditional medicinal practices has the capacity to gain traction internationally. However, it is important that we maintain the highest standards in medical/healthcare tourism and do not allow unacceptable practices tarnishing the image of the country. As such, I propose to introduce appropriate legislation to regulate this industry immediately.

Considering the dilapidated condition due to poor maintenance and management of the

government-owned rest houses and circuit bungalows, I propose to allocate these units under a management company, where all stakeholders will be partners. These institutions will be operated by professionals in order to upgrade such facilities enabling an affordable service coupled with comfort.

We will also construct an exhibition centre near the Parliament through a PPP.

I also encourage theme parks to be established in lagging regions for which I propose to provide state lands and half tax holidays for 10 years. This will have the benefit of expanding the economic activities of such regions through expansion of the leisure activities and tourism.

Hotel registration by June 2016

I am aware that almost 60 percent of the hotels operating in the country are not registered. This has caused many issues in terms of maintaining proper standards in the hospitality industry in the country. As such, I propose that all hotels be mandatorily registered under the Tourism Development Authority by 1 June 2016. Strict action should be initiated by the Tourism Development Authority against hotels that are not registered. Given the above requirements, I encourage the hotel industry to adopt star classifications, administered by the Trade Chambers of the hotels registered with the Federation of Chambers.

I also propose to remove import duties on the caravan carriages, yachts, surfing equipment, speed boats and mini cruise boats.

Colombo International Financial Centre (CIFC)

We will establish a “Colombo International Financial Centre”. A specific zone will be built on the lines of the Dubai International Financial Centre and such other off-shore centres around the world. The zone will cover a demarcated area in D R Wijewardena Mawatha, where a 300,000 square feet facility will be constructed.

The proposed financial center will have an own commercial court for resolution of commercial disputes in a quick and equitable manner keeping in line with the financial centre regulatory requirements. We expect that this initiative will convert the infamous casino proposal of the former government into a robust venture of a financial centre which will be creating a number of new employment opportunities. We invite domestic and international banks to operate in Sri Lanka and be part of the proposed centre. This operation will be ready to commence by 1 April, 2016.

Commercial Banking

I also propose to merge the HDFC Bank and State Mortgage and Investment Bank (SMIB) to create a much stronger and larger “National Housing Bank”, Lankaputhra Development Bank (LDB) to be merged with Regional Development Bank (RDB) to create the “Lanka Enterprise Development Bank”, and also Sri Lanka Savings Bank to be merged with National Savings Bank.

I propose to link the Divinaguma Bank to the National Savings Bank for the protection of the fund ensuring professional management.

I propose that licensed banks should concentrate on their core banking activities.

The Leasing business, has become a distraction to core banking functions and as such Banks should cease in engaging in leasing business from 01 June, 2016.

I propose that all the banks should lend at least 10 percent of their loan portfolio to Agriculture, 5 percent to SME and 5 percent to Women and Youth. Given the impact the international gold prices has had on the local banks specially with large pawning portfolios, I urge the banking sector to limit their pawning business to a maximum of 5 percent of their loan portfolios. Further, I encourage Banks to lend to customers who are engaging in stock market activities. I also propose to amend the Pawnbrokers Ordinance to increase the registration fee for pawnbrokers to Rs.25,000.

I propose to consider the situations where cheques are returned as a criminal offence and enforce stringent legal action against such offences.

I propose to revise the exposure on Government securities for nonresidents from 12.5 per cent to 10 per cent of the total outstanding stock of Treasury Bills and Bonds. This will provide more space for local investors to invest in Government securities and also to mitigate fluctuations in exchange rate due to sudden withdrawal of funds by non-residents as witnessed in the recent past creating an undue strain on the reserves.

I also propose that the fee on bank drafts should not exceed Rs.150 per draft.

For the same reason, I propose all employers to instruct their employees to open bank accounts for the purpose of remitting the salaries.

To keep a better track of all statutory payments, I propose each Company to maintain a dedicated Bank account for direct debit purposes.

Fees on valuation certificates

Charges on valuation certificates of vehicles to obtain finance facilities will be revised with effect from 01 January 2016. Accordingly, I propose the charges applicable for motor cycles and three wheelers to be Rs. 2,500 while valuations on all other vehicles, including motor cars, will be Rs. 15,000.

It is proposed to require all banks to expand their branch network by 15 percent by opening branches in lagging regions. Each of these branches will have to employ at least 6 employees.

I encourage the private sector also to establish private Credit Information Bureaus with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka being a stakeholder with cross industry participation, including, financial institutions, insurance companies, utility providers, etc. I propose to amend the necessary legislation for this purpose.

CRIB for the insurance industry

Similarly, I encourage to open a private CRIB for the insurance industry as well.

At the same time I propose that the monies lying in dormant accounts of commercial banks to be remitted to the Consolidated Fund, by 1 January, 2016.

Finance Companies

A Financial Institution Restructuring Agency (FIRA) on the lines of the Resolution Trust Corporation in the United States of America will be established shortly to help failing finance companies to be recapitalized and their troubled assets to be taken over by this agency for purposes of restructuring. The government will provide initial capital of Rs.10 million as equity and also issue a Treasury bond to the value of Rs. 25 billion with a tenure of 5 years for the FIRA. The Central Bank will be entrusted to undertake strict supervision on this restructured finance companies.

However, as a prelude to the above proposal in order to provide the depositors with a sense of comfort and security, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka will give a 100 percent guarantee on all deposits of all the registered finance companies by end January 2016.

Cap on interest rates offered by Finance Companies.

I propose to impose a cap on the interest rates offered by the Finance Companies.

Credit counselling

We will protect the public who have got into difficulties in the payment of the high rates of interest and penalty charges levied by financial institutions on credit cards and other personal lifestyle loans. To ensure this process, the Central Bank will, in association with all other banks operating in Sri Lanka, expand the credit counselling activities. We expect the Central Bank to issue directions that will restrict the ability of financial institutions to grant unlimited amounts of expensive credit to unsuspecting borrowers.

Fixed Deposits of Senior Citizens

At present the 15 percent interest rate offered to senior citizens is limited to Rs.1 million and only to citizens above 60 years. I propose to expand this benefit to citizens above 55 years of age and the 15 percent interest rate to be applicable to deposits up to Rs.1.5 million.

This facility will be granted through Licensed Finance Companies where an interest subsidy of 1.5 percent will be granted by the Government. I propose to allocate Rs. 1,500 million for this purpose. I note that Central Bank guarantee of deposits should increase the confidence of the depositors.

Creating a Savings Culture

I request all banks to open a child savings account for every child attending school by depositing a minimum of Rs. 250 per child per year. The Bankers’ Association has kindly come forward to support the government’s policy and I encourage the Banking community for the initiatives and support provided to this laudable act. This will commence from 1 January 2016.

Capital Market to stimulate growth

It is proposed to conclude the demutualization process of the CSE during 2016.

It is proposed that Securities and Exchange Act be revised to address the regulatory deficiencies in the market.

To facilitate the expansion of the corporate debt securities market, it is proposed to waive the income tax and withholding tax applicable to those activities into 2016.

It is proposed to set up a Bond Clearing House primarily for transactions in government securities which could then be extended to other instruments including the corporate debt securities known as debt exchanges.

The Bond Clearing house will be established by the Central Bank. Once the Bond Clearing House is fully operationalized, it is proposed to be governed by an independent Board of Directors. I propose to allocate Rs.500 million from the Consolidated Fund to establish the trading platform under the supervision of the Central Bank.

At the same time, the Share Transaction Levy which charges 0.3 percent from the buyer and seller on each share transaction will be removed with a view of encouraging activities in the share market so as to boost the sagging movement of share transactions.

Further, as an additional measure, the stamp duty on share certificates will also be removed.

It is proposed to allocate Rs.100 million to the Sri Lanka Accounting and Auditing Standards Monitoring Board (SLAASMB) to strengthen and develop the institution.

It is proposed to introduce Listed Real Estate Trusts (REITs). Transfer of real estate assets to a REIT structure that distributes 90 percent or more of income to REIT unit holders will be exempted from Stamp Duty.

Moreover, with the change in demographics, it would also be best to consider the introduction of “Reverse Mortgages”.

Non-traditional bond markets

At present Sri Lanka has been raising only USD denominated bonds in the international market. I propose that going forward, we should examine nontraditional bond markets including the Chinese Yuan and Sukuk bonds with the aim of reducing our cost of borrowings.

SME Board on CSE

it is proposed to create a new SME board on the Colombo Stock Exchange with less stringent compliance requirements for SME listings. This will also provide a comfortable exit strategy for the Venture Capital firms that have invested in SMEs.

I propose CSE to play an active role to attract foreign companies to be listed in the Exchange. Local companies listing in the CSE will receive tax concessions for 2 years while the concessions will be extended to 3 years if listed in a foreign stock exchange such as, London, Singapore, Hong Kong, Mumbai. At the same time I encourage foreign companies to list in the CSE (dollar listing).

Market capitalisation at present is Rs. 28 billion. With all the measures proposed we expect the market capitalisation to reach Rs. 50 billion.

Commodities exchange

It is now the time to implement a commodity exchange regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Private sector employees

It is proposed to introduce necessary legislations to extend the time period for making such employees permanent to 1 year from present 6 months.

I encourage the private sector to adopt a 5-day week work culture. This will also allow employees to have more leisure time and spend more time with their families. A 5-day week initiative would help companies to reduce their administrative cost that they incur for 45 hours per week.

I urge the private sector employers to increase the monthly salary by at least Rs.2,500 per month of which Rs.1,500 per month could be given in 2015 and the balance Rs.1,000 per month in 2016.This was agreed by the Employers Federation Council and necessary legislations will be brought in to implement this.

In order to ensure a minimum wage for the working population, an Employment Council will be established, which will be managed by members from the Civil Society and Chambers of Commerce.

Education

I propose that the National Institute of Education (NIE) to formulate a programme where all teachers will be able to undergo continuous teacher training. I also propose that all teachers recruited to Government and Government supported schools must successfully complete a 2 year fulltime teacher training programme within 5 years of recruitment. For this purpose, I propose to allocate Rs.1,000 million.

To facilitate the deployment of teachers to such schools, I propose to provide the rural and regional schools with teacher quarters, rest rooms etc for which I propose to allocate Rs.2,000 million. It is evident that many of our Primary and Secondary schools lack proper sanitary facilities. I propose that by end of 2016 all schools be provided with proper sanitary and water facilities.

For this purpose, I propose to allocate Rs.4,000 million.

Electrification of schools

I also propose that schools without electricity to be provided with electricity either through the national grid or through solar power for which I propose to allocate Rs.2,000 million.

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.10,000 million to upgrade 3,577 primary schools in the country with the required facilities within the medium term action plan.

At the same time, 1,000 secondary schools will also be provided with other facilities such as activity rooms, laboratories, multimedia facilities, libraries with e-library facility for which I propose to allocate Rs.15,000 million.

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.30,000 million to implement a project to improve the facilities and the quality of neglected schools.

Further, resources will be allocated to upgrade 25 schools in the plantation sector to secondary level for which I propose to allocate Rs.250 million.

With a view to improving science education in schools which has no permanent laboratories, I propose to allocate Rs.450 million.

Mahapola University in Malabe

I am sure that this house will agree to establish a university named Mahapola University located at Malabe. This university will focus on teaching subjects such as ICT, Business Studies, English, Management and other new market oriented subjects. As such I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.3,000 million for this purpose.

In line with our government’s commitment to expanding the opportunities for education in our society, I propose to establish an Engineering faculty in Kilinochchi and an Agriculture faculty in Vavuniya.

The Post Graduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies will be provided with the necessary infrastructure including a new building. I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 500 million for this purpose.

It is also proposed to provide laptops for university students on an interest free 3 year loan. Also free wi-fi zones will be provided for all universities. I propose to allocate Rs. 300 million for this purpose

1,000 Kidney dialysis centres

I propose to immediately establish 1,000 kidney dialysis centres in CKDU prevalent areas at a cost of Rs.6,500 million. I also propose the construction of a hospital specializing in kidney disease management in Minneriya for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.2,000 million. I propose to allocate Rs.3,000 million to be utilised for the construction of 3 cancer hospitals in Nallur, Kandy and Matara.

To improve better access to quality health care, I also propose to upgrade the Anuradhapura, Kurunegala and Jaffna Hospitals with the state of the art buildings, equipment and other facilities. I propose to allocate Rs. 3,000 million for this purpose.

Mobile hospitals

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.200 million for this purpose.

It is also proposed to build and equip 10 district-based stroke centres attached to tertiary care hospitals within the next 2 years and also it is proposed to strengthen the accident and emergency care services in the hospitals. As such I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.5,000 million for this purpose.

Research and Development in the health sector

I propose to allocate Rs.250 million to the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support and assist research in Diabetes, Dengue, CKDU and Cancer.

Sri Jayawardenapura hospital will be refurbished and expanded to be able to compete with the private sector. As such I propose to allocate Rs. 1,500 million. At the same time given that qualified nurses are in great demand both in the local and overseasmarket, the infrastructure facilities required to train 2,000 nurses per annum at the Nursing school affiliated to the Jayawardenapura hospital needs to be improved, for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 2,500 million.

To monitor the effective use of funds I also propose the establishment of an oversight unit in every hospital which will ensure value for money concept is practiced.

To curtail draining out of foreign exchange from the country I invite private sector to venture into establishing Pharmaceutical Zones as PPPs. The government will also contribute by providing land. A buy-back arrangement will be agreed upon to purchase the government requirement of the respective pharmaceutical items manufactured and they will also be encouraged to access markets on their own.

Innovation Accelerator

I propose to set up an Innovation Accelerator, a platform that will combine the National Innovation Programmes (NIPs) of the Coordinating Secretariat for Science Technology and Innovation (COSTI) and the National Thematic Research Programme (NTRP) and the technology support schemes of the National Science Foundation (NSF), with clear deliverables directed towards three pillars of sustainability; economic development, social justice and the environmental quality.

I propose to set up a National Innovation Centre in the Ministry of Science, Technology and Research which will manage the Innovation Accelerator Fund set up as a revolving fund. It is proposed to allocate Rs 100 million as seed capital to this Centre while another Rs.3,000 million will also be provided within a period of 3 years.

We are keen to ensure that these innovations are ultimately transferred into commercial successes. COSTI has identified 25 such projects that have the potential to succeed commercially. Some of these innovations include GoviNena, a mobile application to support efficient agricultural commodity production, Energy storage systems etc.

Nenasala centers

I propose to allocate Rs. 100 million to upgrade selected Nenasala centers in These upgraded centres in addition to their usual task of facilitating ICT empowerment will also drive local entrepreneurship and provide technology support to SMEs.

Police Stations

I  propose to increase the number of police stations to 600 from the existing 428 stations in consultation with the Minister of Law and Order and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) which will relate to an additional allocation of Rs. 1,000 million.

State Owned Enterprises (SOEs)

Initially all SOEs will be brought under a Government owned holding company formed similar to that of the Temasek Holdings of Singapore. This public company would be operated based on sound financial principles and market economics. The shares of these enterprises will be passed onto a Public Wealth Trust (PWT), where the Secretary to the Treasury and the Governor of the Central Bank will be the custodians.

This Trust will be managed by a Board comprising of members from civil societies, trade chambers, and trade unions, who will be nominated by the Constitutional Council. The PWT is answerable to Parliament. A new Public Enterprise Act will be enacted to provide the necessary legal framework to this effect.

The Boards of SOEs will be strengthened with the appointment of professionals. Key SOEs will be allowed to operate and be evaluated based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Key SOEs will also be encouraged to adopt a rating mechanism which will also facilitate the entities to access the domestic and foreign capital markets through various instruments for their capital requirements.

Exit from non-strategic investments

The government is keen to streamline its portfolio of investments and will therefore exit partially or fully from those non-strategic investments in Lanka Hospitals, Hotel Developers PLC (Colombo Hilton), Hyatt Residencies, Waters Edge, Grand Oriental Hotel, Ceylinco Hospital and Mobitel by listing such investments in the Colombo Stock Exchange during 2016. The monies generated through such listings will be used to retire high cost debt accrued by the Rajapaksa regime.

Special Purpose Vehicle for expressways

I propose to establish, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the Southern Expressway and the Katunayake Expressway. Private investors will be invited to investment into the SPV for which the government will guarantee a minimum return. The funds generated from the investments in the SPV will be utilized to clear the debt that our country is saddled with.

SPV for Norochcholai coal power plant

I also propose to establish a SPV for the Norochcholai coal fired power plant to be securitized. I emphasize that the ownership structure of power plant will not change but the CEBs liquidity position will improve and thus enable its expansion activities.

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation will collaborate with investors to form a company that will manage the oil tank farm in Trincomalee which at presently under-utilized. This facility will be operated as a bonding warehouse.

Aviation Sector

Government will pursue an open sky policy with restriction free traffic and I invite the international airlines to make Sri Lanka a preferred destination.

To improve the domestic air transportation, three new domestic airports will be established at Digana, Badulla and Puttlam through a PPP arrangement.

With a view to promoting domestic tourism in the country, I propose to exempt airlines using domestic airports from ground handling charges and other fees. They will be liable to pay only a license fee of Rs.1.5 million per annum.

I propose to increase the over flying charges of commercial planes by 20 percent from 01, January 2016.

SriLankan Airlines

Ground handling and catering operations which at present are profitable will be managed as separate institutions serving all airlines. They will operate as independent entities running as common service provider to all airlines.

Mihin Lanka

Mihin will concentrate its operations mainly on domestic routes and will limit its operations to selected international routes.

Mattala Airport

Our government is keen to turn around Mattala through a private public partnership, where the airport will be utilized for pilot training, logistic aero warehouse activities, cargo services etc.

I also propose to utilize the Mattala airport as a cargo hub, especially for air freight. In order to encourage these activities, I propose the throughput charges to be fixed at USD four (04) cents per kilogramme. I invite integrated courier companies to utilise Mattala airport for their hub operations.

I propose to encourage the private sector to set up flying training school and Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) facilities within the Mattala Airport.

Public Finance

We will enforce strict regulations with respect to all state purchases. A Central Procurement Secretariat will be established which will oversee the awarding of tenders and will handle all purchases over a specific value.

I propose to increase the guarantee limit under the Fiscal Management (Responsibility) Act (FMRA) from current 7 percent of GDP to 10 percent of GDP, and to enable the issuance of guarantees to Public Private Partnerships in which the government holding is less than 50 percent, at a fee. Regulations will be issued enabling the issuance of Treasury Guarantees on a fee basis.

Transport Sector

I propose to introduce legislative amendments to expand the scope of the National Transport Commission (NTC) Act to include the regulation of three wheelers, taxis, school vans and cargo transportation vehicles.

Road Transportation

I urge the SLTB to explore the possibility of partnering with local companies that has the capacity to build road worthy buses. This process will save around Rs. 1.5 million per bus and we expect to save Rs. 10,000 million per annum.

I also propose that the all state sector agencies dispose of their unutilized dilapidated vehicles through the tendering system to ensure that public assets are not wasted.

To save energy and minimize environmental pollution, I encourage the three wheeler owners to convert their vehicles from fuel to electricity. Therefore, I propose to make available a concessional loan of Rs 150,000 for the conversion purpose, for fare-metered three wheelers. I propose to allocate Rs. 50 million for this purpose.

I also propose to install a traffic encoder free of charge into every registered vehicle in the country. This will help better management of traffic, deter theft and improve security. As such I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.500 million for this purpose.

Railways

I propose to establish a “Railways Development Council” comprising of 5 members appointed by the Government to identify strategies to improve the yield of the underutilized assets.

Kelani Valley line

Considering the demographics, the Kelani Valley line will be modernized where the speed and the carrying capacity will be increased for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.1,500 million.

Park and Ride

“Park and Ride” facilities attached to both railway stations and bus stations will enable better traffic management and also facilitate the commuters in the country in terms of comfort and cost. As such I propose to allocate Rs. 1,000 million to the Ministry of Transport to engage in the improvement of the railways, bus transport in selected towns such as Jaela, Avissawella, Panadura, Kadawatha and Piliyandala.

When the concept of “Park and Ride” is established the vehicles coming to the city will be required to carry a minimum of 4 passengers and any vehicle that does not will be imposed a fee. This mechanism will be implemented before the end of September 2016.

 

Jaffna Railway line

I also propose to improve the speed of the Jaffna Railway line from Maho to Vavuniya for which I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 200 million.

Monorail

I also propose to encourage the public sector to partner the private sector to build and operate monorail projects connecting Negombo- Katunayake- Colombo and Colombo- Kaduwela.

Transportation on Waterways

To improve water transport in the country, I propose to allocate Rs. 250 million.

Shipping

The business of trans-shipment and non container related shipping has to be increased tomaintain a major trans-shipment hub. Hence, we need to set a realistic target to be within the top 20 trans-shipment ports in the world by 2025.

The government will also encourage ship financing, ship repairing, ship registry status, bunkering, arbitration and allied services which would be governed by modern laws. The competition for such business is increasing in the region.

Logistics

Government will remove restrictions on Global Logistics Companies, which have the scale, capacity, capital and knowledge to expand services using Sri Lanka as the hub, they should be able to invest, acquire and operate within a reasonable tax regime where new capital, business and employment is generated to the local economy via global trade. Also,  regulation will be issued to stipulate designated areas for logistics hub and these areas will be strictly outside the BOI zones.

Freight Forwarding

Entry into international freight forwarding will be liberalized so that foreign participation could extend up to a maximum of 75 percent with a minimum investment of USD 5 million. But such companies should have at least 90 percent of local employment.

Also I propose the freight forwarding activities to be expanded to sea ports as well and to operate jointly with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. To encourage skills development and training in shipping related activities, I propose to grant tax concessions on Training and related equipment.

I propose to allocate Rs.50 million to strengthen the activities of Indian Ocean Marine Affairs Cooperation.

Container vehicles entering the Sri Lanka Ports Authority

I propose to liberalize the vehicle movement activities and introduce a license fee of Rs.100,000/- per vehicle per year.

Industrial Estates and Parks

We will establish Industrial Development Zones (IDZs), in Hambantota, Raigama, Mahaoya and Trincomalee along with Information and Agricultural Technology Zones (IATZs) in Kandy. I propose therefore to allocate Rs.500 million to rehabilitate and improve the facilities in these estates.

Water Supply

As part of the accelerated programme to prevent the spread of CKDu in the country, RO Plants (Reverse Osmosis Plants) will be issued to those areas where pipe borne water is unavailable.

Roads Network

I propose to allocate Rs. 15,000 million for the expansion of the road network which includes the expansion of the Ruwanpura Expressway, extension of Marine drive up to Panadura, extension of the Pamankada-Ratmalana Road, new bridge construction over the Kelani River, reconstruction of 25 bridges and 3 flyovers etc.

We also plan to construct an elevated road from Cotta Road to Kaduwela on BOT basis. I also wish to commit a sum of Rs.10,000 million to be the government contribution.

New access road from Kelani Bridge to Colombo Fort

We will be constructing a new access road from the Kelani Bridge to the Colombo Fort improving access to Fort. I wish to allocate a sum of Rs.4,000 million to be utilized within a period of 2 years.

North East Expressway

We will expand the Central Expressway to connect Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Mullaitvu and Jaffna under a public private partnership, “Infrastructure Development Authority” (IDA). It is also planned that industrial parks be created along the proposed expressways, thereby adding value to the expressway.

Accordingly, it is proposed to set up a Bio Technology Park which will house pharmaceutical companies, a product design engineering manufacturing park and an IT park and also agro and aqua culture parks along the expressway.

It is proposed to allocate Rs.1,000 million in 2016 as seed capital of the proposed IDA. It is also proposed to provide guarantees to the IDA, should the company be engaged in raising debt finance domestically or internationally.

Irrigation Projects

We recognize that irrigation and water resource management is crucial in our policy to ensure self-sufficiency in food. As such, while I have already allocated Rs. 2,000 million for the rehabilitation and improvement of small scale tanks and canals, I propose to allocate a further Rs.1,000 million to expedite the Yaan Oya irrigation project.

Power and Energy

I propose that Letters of Intent issued by the CEB for Non-Conventional Renewable Energy projects (NCRE) that has already been issued but unutilized for more than 1 year as at 31. December, 2015 will cease to be operational.

Megapolis and Urban Development

A Master Plan relating to the Megapolis project is scheduled to be completed in 2016 and most of the projects will be implemented on Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis. I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.10,000 million for projects such as township development, urban solid waste management, etc.

Urban Development

To improve access to clean water, provision of sewerage, and urban development, I propose to allocate Rs.2,500 million to the Ministry of City Planning and Water Supply.

Southern Development

Our efforts in Southern Development will be concentrated mainly on developing seaport and airport logistic support services, agro based industries, agriculture support services improvement, urban facility improvement, rural sanitation facility etc. For this purpose, I propose to allocate Rs.1,000 million.

Wayamba Development

I propose to allocate Rs.2,500 million for the implementation of drinking water projects, improvement of irrigation facilities, fisheries development etc. in the North Western Province.

“Pubudamu Polonnaruwa”

This programme will cover the expansion of access to clean water, development of health care facilities, rehabilitation of tanks, improvement of school infrastructure and better sports facilities.

It is also planned to integrate the Kaduruwela, Hospital Town, New Town and the Polonnaruwa ancient City into an integrated modern city. In addition to the Rs.2,000 million allocated for the proposed Kidney Treatment hospital in Minneriya, I propose to allocate a further sum of Rs.10,000 million.

Rs. 14bn for North and East Development

We plan to convene a Donor Conference in 2016, to generate support from bilateral and multilateral agencies to enhance the rehabilitation of the North and the East.

We are also committed to ensuring that the issues of the internally displaced people are addressed immediately. In this regard, we will initiate a rapid large scale resettlement programme for the internally displaced people and provide basic needs and livelihood opportunities to the already resettled families. In this respect, we will be building 20,000 houses especially in the Districts of Mannar and Mulativu, with proper sanitation facilities, access to clean water and electricity. Further, improvement of the construction of the Delft Jetty, renovation of roads from Velanai to Kayts, establishment of clinical waste management system etc., also will be accommodated. As such I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 14,000 million for this purpose.

I also propose to establish through a PPP, a Red clay factory in Oddusuddan enhancing livelihood development in the area.

Estate Infrastructure

Our Government will undertake housing programmes to build low cost houses and amenities for the plantation community for which I propose to allocate Rs.1,000 million.

Strengthening Local Government authorities

I propose to allocate Rs.1,500 million for local government authorities to be utilized for the upgrading of infrastructure facilities.

Special Projects

I allocate Rs.150 million to the recently instituted Ministry of Special Assignments.

Rs.15 million per Parliamentarian

Members of the Parliament should also be actively involved in the governance mechanism more so specially since this is a National Unity government. They were keen to  increase the decentralized budget to Rs.15 million per Parliamentarian. As such, I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 3,375 million for this purpose.

Culture and Arts

I encourage the Association of Artists to initiate a mechanism for a contributory pension scheme for which I propose to allocate Rs. 15 million as the government’s contribution.

Sports

I propose to allocate Rs.1,000 million for our proposals while removing import taxes applicable on sports goods.

Foreign Employment

I encourage the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau to engage with foreign countries who are desirous of employing our labour to agree to a minimum monthly wage of at least USD 300 for unskilled and semi-skilled migrant workers.

Agent fee

I propose to increase the agent fee per worker collected by the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau to Rs. 15,000 per worker. All the migrant workers prior to departure should possess a bank account, insurance cover and information with regard to contact details.

I also propose to adopt a transparent and competitive bidding process to select the insurance agents who provide insurance coverage to migrant employees.

Dedicated Immigration / Emigration Counters

In order to appreciate Middle Eastern migrant workers’ contribution to the country, I propose to operate two dedicated immigration / emigration counters at the Bandaranaike International Airport with “Commercially Important Persons” (CIP) status, for the Middle Eastern traffic.

Regulate Cosmetics

I propose to introduce legislations to regulate cosmetics and devices. In the interim, Consumer Affairs Authority will gazette regulations to make it mandatory for all cosmetic products to include total ingredients list using International Nomenclature Cosmetics Ingredients (INCI) at least in English language on all labels, including Ayurveda Cosmetics.

In order to ensure the quality of imported products such as milk powder, cosmetics, toiletries, shampoos etc., I propose that Sri Lanka Standards Institute, Industrial Technological Institute and Pharmaceuticals Research Laboratory be strengthened by increasing the technical cadre and the laboratory facilities for which I allocate Rs.200 million.

Competition Authority

I propose to establish a Competition Authority to regulate the market for anti-competitive behavior of businesses which includes unfair monopolies, dumping, exclusive dealings, price fixing, etc.

Satellite Space of Sri Lanka

Our satellite space which has not been used will be tendered internationally through a transparent procedure.

Apparel Mall

A need has arisen to operate a permanent exhibition centre where manufacturers will have their own stall with required facilities to offer only Sri Lankan branded goods made in Sri Lanka of comparable quality with labels and a complete range of products from head to toe.

The centre will offer a meeting place for domestic and foreign buyers for on the spot purchase or placing orders for the domestic market. Therefore, I propose to assist this brand journey by establishing a wholesale and retail mall exclusively for domestic apparel brands as a Public Private Partnership at a cost of Rs. 2,500 million where the Government  would offer a plot of leased land for the construction of a mall with a floor area of at least 400,000 square feet.

Insurance against Natural Disasters

I propose the entire country be protected against natural disasters, such as Cyclones, Storm, Tempest, Flood, Landslide, Hurricane, Earthquake, Tsunami and any other natural peril.

This natural disaster insurance will totally cover damages up to a maximum of Rs. 10,000 million with individual covers up to a maximum of Rs. 2.5 million and also Rs. 1 million life insurance.

Search and rescue operations for the fishermen will also be covered by this scheme. I propose to allocate Rs. 300 million as insurance premium.

Price reductions on 11 selected essential commodities

I propose to reduce the Special Commodity Levy (SCL) of potatoes by Rs 25/- per kilogram.

Accordingly, it is expected to provide a price ranging from Rs 75/- to 85/- for a kilogram of potatoes for the consumers. I also propose to reduce the SCL for big onions by Rs 25/- and to provide consumers with a price ranging from Rs 85/- to 95/- per a kilogram of big onions.

I also propose to reduce the price of a 400 gram packet of locally manufactured milk powder which is another main commodity to Rs 295/- and in order to cover the loss incurred by the local milk powder manufacturer, the Government will provide a subsidy of Rs 30/-. Considering the significance of the nutritional requirement of infants, I also propose to reduce price of infant milk powder by Rs 100/- per kilo.

I also propose to reduce the price of a canned fish tin of 425 grams to Rs 125/-. Accordingly, I propose to provide a subsidy of Rs 15/- for a canned fish tin of 425 grams.

I propose to limit the maximum retail price of Sprats to Rs 410/- per kilogram. I propose to implement a maximum retail price of Rs 169/- per kilo of dhal in order to provide a reasonable price for the consumers. To do so, I will completely remove the SCL imposed on dhal.

I also propose to impose a maximum retail price of Rs 1,100/- for a kilo of “Katta” which is the most consumer demanded dried fish variety and to impose a maximum retail price of Rs 425/- for a dried fish kilo of “Salaya”. By doing so, I expect to protect the local dried fish producers and to provide consumers with a reasonable price for dried fish.

I propose to impose a maximum retail price of Rs 169/- for a kilo of chick pea in order to provide relief for the consumers.  I also propose to reduce the price of a 12.5 Kg gas cylinder by Rs 150/- with immediate effect and to reduce the price of 1 liter of kerosene by Rs 10/- in order to provide relief for the poor. Stern legal action will be taken against the sale of kerosene oil mixed with other oil in order to prevent discrepancies faced by the poor.

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs.3,000 million for the provision of these concessions. At the same time to ensure that the benefits envisaged from the reduction of taxes and the imposition of a price limit are passed on to the consumer as expected the effective and efficient functioning Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) is crucial.

Project Monitoring

I wish to allocate Rs.200 million to the Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs to enhance the policy formulation and policy analysis mechanism of the country to enable better design and monitoring of development polices.

All branding activities that is undertaken as private public partnerships will be coordinated by the Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs.

Allowances

The allowance of Rs.10,000 per month that has been made available to the public sector employees as a promise of our government. This allowance and the previously granted two interim allowances will be considered for the pension payment at the time of retirement.

Corruption-free Country

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 500 million for strengthening Bribery Commission.

Parliamentary Affairs

I propose to allocate a sum of Rs. 250 million to strengthen the oversight committees.

I also propose to allocate a sum of Rs.50 million to the J R Jayawardene Centre to be utilized to strengthen the capacities of the members of the parliament.

Tax Policy and Tax Administration

Simplification of Tax System

I propose the amalgamation of certain taxes which have failed to generate the expected revenue and to improve the revenue collection of the country. I also propose the elimination of certain non relevant nuisance taxes that prevail in the system which would benefit the tax payer as well as the business community.

Accordingly, with a view to simplify the tax system, I propose to remove the Share Transaction Levy, Construction Industry Guarantee Fund Levy, Luxury & Semi-Luxury Motor Vehicle Tax and Tourism Development Levy (TDL).

Income Tax

Corporate Income Tax

I propose to restructure the present corporate income tax rate structure to a two rate band system with a higher rate of 30 percent and a standard rate of 15 percent. Higher rate will be applicable for the profit and income of betting and gaming, liquor, tobacco and banking and financial services, including insurance and leasing industry and the trading activities. All the other sectors will be subject to the standard rate of 15 percent. The identified long term concessions such as institutional, miscellaneous and other exemptions granted without having any policy rationale will be revisited.

Minimum Dividend

The minimum amount of dividend to be distributed by quoted companies will be increased to 15 percent of the distributable profits.

Surtax on Tobacco, Liquor and Casinos

I propose to impose a surtax at the rate of 25 percent of income tax liability for tobacco, liquor and casino industries.

Personal Income Tax

With a view to further simplifying the PAYE tax system and to ensure better compliance, I propose to amend the law applicable to the PAYE tax to ensure equal treatment to all employees. In order to provide concessions to employees, I also propose to increase the tax free annual threshold to Rs.2.4 million.

The PAYE tax over and above this limit to be charged at a uniform 15 percent and the taxable income will be inclusive of all the earnings by the employee with no exemptions. This method and rate will also be applied for individual income earners instead of the present progressive rate of up to 24 percent. Further, any income from secondary employment will also be taxed at the same rate without any exemptions.

I propose to abolish applying 2.5 percent withholding tax on deposits with effect from 01 January, 2016.

Economic Service Charge (ESC)

The present exclusion of profit making businesses and the minimum threshold of payment of Rs 120 million per year will be removed and the applicable rate will be increased to 0.5 per cent. In addition, the period of carried forward balances will be limited to 3 years.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

I propose to remove certain exemptions with the view to increase revenue. The present single rate will be revised to 3 bands 0%, standard rate of 8% and 12.5% higher rate for service sector and the minimum threshold for the liability for VAT will be Rs.12 million per annum.

The wholesale and retail trade will be excluded from VAT. 

Nation Building Tax (NBT)

I propose to reduce the NBT threshold in line with VAT and the rate will be increased to 4% and certain exemptions will be removed. Revenue generated from the increase of rate will be transferred to the Consolidated Fund.

Betting and Gaming

The casino entrance fee imposed in the last budget will be removed and the annual levy imposed on the business of gaming other than rujino, will be increased to Rs.400 million. I also propose to amend the Finance Act to make directors and shareholders personally liable for non-payment or any act which is taken to avoid payment of Casino Industry Levy introduced in Interim Budget.

Tax Incentive Regime

The government would also like to propose to do away with ad-hoc and unproductive tax concessions offered by different agencies as it has led to the existence of different tax regimes in the system, which has created un-competitiveness among the entrepreneurs.

I propose that the concessions granted for any investment should be strictly under the supervision and monitoring of the Ministry of Finance which would be governed by regulations issued by the Ministry.

Unit Rate on Excise for Vehicles

I propose to introduce a simple unit rate of excise duty for the vehicles on the basis of cubic centimeters. Duties on the percentage basis on certain vehicles will also be revised.

Tax Incentives for Environment Friendly Vehicles

For encouraging the use of environment friendly vehicles with reduced emission, I propose to reduce Excise duty to 2.5 percent for the vehicles which are run entirely on Solar, Hydrogen or Helium.

Motor Vehicle Entitlement Certificate

I propose to introduce a vehicle import fee to obtain a Vehicle Entitlement Certificate for each vehicle. This certificate will be issued by the Department of Inland Revenue and the certificate will be necessary for opening of Letter of Credit for importing a vehicle. I propose a Vehicle Entitlement Certificate fee of Rs. 2,000 per Motor Cycle and Three Wheeler, Rs.15,000/- for a Motor Car and Rs.10,000/- per vehicle for all other vehicles.

Revenue License and Emission Test

I propose to revise revenue license fee for motor vehicles. A fee charged on the certificate of emission test will be enhanced to Rs. 5,000. Issuance of vehicle emission certificates will be liberalized and opened up for competition by allowing more players to come in.

Registration of Vehicles

It has been brought to our notice that some of the vehicles which are being assembled in the country have not been registered with the Department of Motor Traffic Department due to various reasons. I urge the owners of such vehicles to register their vehicles by 31 March 2016, by paying a fee of Rs. 750,000 for commercial vehicles and Rs. 1 million for motor cars.

I propose to export such vehicles after being reconditioned. For every 20 vehicles exported by the same exporter under this scheme, a 50 percent tax credit will be given for the importation of one motor car.

I propose to introduce a unique vehicle number plate system which could be auctioned.

Concessionary Permit Schemes

I propose to abolish all the vehicle permits granted under different schemes, including to Parliamentarians. However, I ensure all government officers will be financially compensated for the benefit foregone. Further, all the vehicles purchased to the Government will be subject to all applicable taxes and necessary allocations will be provided in the budget.

Stamp Duty Reduction on Credit Cards

I propose to remove stamp duty on credit cards for local purchases and stamp duty for foreign purchases will be increased to 2.5 percent.

Mansion Tax

Provisions in relation to Mansion Tax which was introduced in the interim budget will continue to be applicable except for condominium units.

Rationalization of Customs Duty Structure

Presently 4 tariff bands are applied for customs duty i.e. exempt, 7.5 percent, 15 percent, 25 percent and a fixed higher rate. Out of around 7,000 HS codes, nearly 50 percent of the items are at 0 percent. Only 2 percent of items are in 7.5 percent band. To simplify the tariff bands further, I propose to remove the 7.5 percent band and increase the 25 percent band to 30 percent. Accordingly, Sri Lanka will have a 3-band structure of exempt, 15 percent and 30 percent.

Ports and Airports Development Levy (PAL)

I propose to increase the PAL from 5 percent to 7.5 percent, other than plant and machineries used for construction, dairy and agricultural industries which will be exempted.

Taxes on Liquor, Fool-proof Sticker

I propose that every tax-paid liquor bottle must be labeled with a foolproof sticker. This provides a visual identification for the excise officers in identifying the tax paid liquor bottles. The manufacturer of this sticker will be selected in a transparent manner through international competitive bidding applying government procurement procedures. The enforcement of this transparent measure will help stop unregulated liquor being made available to consumer.

Increasing Liquor Manufacturing License Fee

I propose to increase the annual manufacturing license fee for a distillery to Rs.150 million.

Further, I propose to impose a single fee of Rs.150 million for liquor manufacturers as an annual licence fee instead of the present complicated per bottle license fee system. Excise Duty on liquor will be revised from mid night today.

Simplification of Licensing Scheme

The complicated licensing scheme will be simplified and certain time restrictions applicable on the sale will be removed.

Minimum Excise Duty Payable

Necessary amendments to the Excise Ordinance will be introduced to make provisions to collect a minimum Excise Duty of Rs.250 million per month from liquor manufacturers who are having distilleries and Rs.50 million per month from persons engaged only in liquor manufacturing based on the minimum quantity of liquor required to be manufactured.

Increasing Import Duty on Liquor

I propose that tax on all types of foreign liquor and imported ethanol be increased on par with locally produced liquor-price increase.

Imported Foreign Liquor License

At present, permission is granted to transport only 10 bulk litres of locally manufactured liquor and there are no restrictions in place on the transportation of imported liquor. Therefore, I propose to apply the same procedure applicable on locally produced liquor to imported liquor as well.

Customs Duty on Beedi Leaves

I propose to increase Customs Duty on beedi leaves. Further, beedi manufacturing licence fee also to be increased from Rs.1500/- to Rs.5,000/-. I also propose to discourage the importation of beedi as a finished product, by increasing Customs Duty. This will be an indirect benefit for the beedi manufactures.

Increase of Embarkation Levy

I propose to increase the Embarkation Levy from USD 25/- to USD 30/-. This will be applied for both ship and air passengers. I also propose to increase the contribution to the Consolidated Fund from the Embarkation Levy from present one third to two thirds of the total collection through this levy.

Passport Fee

Passport fee has not been revised recently. Meanwhile, the cost of printing of passports has increased. Accordingly, I propose to increase one day service of passports from Rs.7,500/- to Rs.10,000/- per application. Further, I propose to increase application fee for dual citizenship from 250,000 to Rs.300,000/- per application and SAARC Visa fee to USD 20/- per application.

Introduction of Residence Visa

To encourage foreign investment, I propose to introduce a fee of USD 250,000 for residence visa for a three year period and USD 5 million for a permanent residence visa for foreigners, with the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers.

Tax on Telecommunication industry

I propose to increase International Telecommunication Operator Levy (ITOL) from USD Cents 9 to USD Cents 12 and total increase to be credited to the Consolidated Fund. The TRCSL has requested that the transit tariff revenue be exempted from the gross turnover for the purpose of cess payment in order to increase the competitiveness for international transit traffic and thus increasing the inflow of foreign revenue. Considering the negative environmental impact, I also like to propose an annual fee of Rs.50,000/- per tower.

Sale in the Domestic Market by Export Oriented Companies

Export oriented BOI companies will be permitted to supply to the local market only 5 percent of its products.

Introduction of an Annual Registration Fee on Companies

I propose to impose an annual fee on all the registered companies collectible by the Registrar of Companies. Further in order to discourage voluntary registration, I propose to charge Rs. 500,000/- on voluntary liquidation of companies.

With effect from January 01, 2016, all business entities should be registered with their respective local councils at a nominal fee of Rs. 100 per year. For new business entities, this registration would be a pre requisite to obtain the electricity and water connections, and loan facilities from Banks.

Teledrama Levy

English being a link language in Sri Lanka, levies currently exempted on Tamil teledramas, films and advertisements will also be extended to English teledramas, films and advertisements as well.

Reforms in Tax Administration 

Inland Revenue Department

The first phase of the Revenue Administration Management Information System (RAMIS), to enable the automated services for filing of returns, payment of taxes, etc., will be effective from 1 January 2016.

I also propose the mandatory inclusion of the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or the Business Registration Number (BRN) in all transactions in capturing all business transactions, leading to increased tax collection.

Personal taxpayers who pay more than Rs. 25 million per year will be granted with special privileges such as VIP counter at the airport, priority treatment at government institutions and hospitals, special invitations for state functions, once a year felicitation meeting with the President and Prime Minister.

Import Customs Declarations

With a view of controlling human intervention in Customs activities, and enhancing trade facilitation, submission of Import Customs Declarations electronically will be implemented by June 2016. The government agencies which provide authorization will be linked online to the SLC by 1 January 2016.

To monitor unaccompanied baggage related activities, CCTV systems will be operated in every customs bonding areas, ensuring transparency and elimination of waste and corruption. These apparatus will be linked to the SLC headquarters. Any new bonding  warehouses that come into operation after 1 April 2016 should have a minimum floor area of 50,000 square feet. Further, the existing warehouses should also be expanded to meet this floor area requirement.

A new valuation system will be introduced to curb under invoicing of motor spare parts, tiles, tires etc with effect from January 01, 2016.

To avoid Sri Lanka being a dumping ground, the importation of used washing machines, used TVs and used mobile phones will be banned with effect from January 01, 2016.

In order to streamline the Customs activities and as a revenue protection measure, all the regular importers should be registered with the SLC from January 01, 2016.

In future, duty free shops at Ports and Airports should be operated on joint venture basis with local or foreign counterparts. Accordingly, any local operator who intends to enter into this business should have a foreign counterpart and vice versa.

Charges for Road Accidents

I propose to impose a fine of Rs. 10,000/- in addition to the damages to the public property, in case of a road accident.

Incentives for Thrust Industries

Sri Lanka would be free of Asbestos by 2018. In this background, we have to find environment friendly roofing  materials by 2018. To encourage the manufacturing of red clay tiles, the red clay industry will be granted a half tax holiday on income tax for a period of 3 years.

Import Taxes on Garments and Footwear

In order to achieve a balance between the accesses to branded products and to protect the local industries, a uniform rate will be applicable for garments and footwear imported or manufactured and supplied to local market by export oriented companies.

Special Commodity Levy

In order to protect the local confectionery industry the Special Commodity Levy applicable on vegetable fat will be reduced.

Multi-tasking Officers

Graduates attached to the Divisional Secretariats (DS) will be deployed as Multi-Tasking Officers. They will be assigned with special tasks, to ensure the government revenue collection at DS level.

01.  Creating a special purpose vehicle in the treasury for the low income group and middle income group home ownership programme (Document No – 07)

It is expected to build 620,000 houses by the year 2019 with the view of providing 120,000 houses for low income families and 500,000 houses for middle income families under the above programme. Accordingly, considering this programme as a national priority, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to establish a special task unit under the general treasury to obtain necessary approvals immediately and to complete the programme within the due timeframe, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.  A new act to strengthen coast guard activities (Document No – 08)

The task expected from the Department of Coast Guard which has been established by the act no. 41 of 2009, is seen difficult to be performed within its present institutional structure. Accordingly, considering the timely needs, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to prepare a new act by repealing the act no. 41 of 2009, to establish the above department as a more powerful law enforcing authority, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.  Obtaining funds to implement the Katana Water supply project (Document No – 13)

The approval of the Cabinet of Ministers has already been granted to implement the above project with the view of providing more safe drinking water to residents in Katana Divisional Secretary's Division. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into loan agreements with China Development Bank and Bank of Ceylon to obtain required funds, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.  Obtaining funds to implement the Thambuttegama Water supply project (Document No – 12)

The approval of the Cabinet of Ministers has already been granted to implement the above project with the view of providing more safe drinking water to 42 Grama Niladhari Divisions in Thambuttegama and Galnewa Divisional Secretary's Divisions. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into loan agreements with China Development Bank and Bank of Ceylon to obtain required funds, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.  Obtaining additional funds for Kaluganga Development Project (Document No – 14)

Kaluganga reservoir, which is constructed with the view of providing 100 million cubic metres of water to Moragahakanda Reservoir and developing a new irrigation area of 3,000 hectares under the above project, is expected to be completed in 2018. The scope of the project has been changed due to previously unrevealed geographical statuses and its cost has been amended. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to discuss with and enter into an agreement with the Opec Fund for International Development to obtain the additional funds in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.  Memorandum of Understanding between Sri Lanka and Sudan on bilateral consultation (Document No – 18)

The proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the above MoU between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Republic of Sudan, with the view of strengthening friendship and cooperation between the two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.  Improvement of surgical/medical units of Karapitiya Teaching Hospital, Galle (Document No – 22)

Karapitiya Teaching Hospital which is the main hospital in Galle District provides its services to adjoining districts as well as provinces. It is comprised of 60 wards and 1,838 beds and 24 specialized service units are in operation. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to construct a new ten storied building at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,401.7 million by establishing an Orthopaedic Unit, Plastic Surgeries and Burn Unit, 02 ENT Units, Gastro-Enterology and Genito-Urology Unit, Vitreo-Retinal Unit and facilities for treating Paediatric heart patients, and kidney diseases and eye diseases increasing the number of beds from 300 and enabling performance of 130 additional surgeries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.  Development of Vijaya Kumaratunge Memorial Hospital, Seeduwa (Document No – 23)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to implement the following two (02) projects, to develop the above hospital, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

*        Expand and modernize the building which the office and clinics are located at an estimated cost of Rs. 35 million.

*        Construction of a six storied building to locate Accident and Preliminary Care Unit, medical and surgical wards, second ophthalmic ward, diabetes treatment centre, Intensive Care Unit, Laboratories and X-Ray Unit, rooms for Doctors and accommodation for Nurses at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,431 million. 

09.  Development of 100 temples in North and Eastern Provinces (Document No – 28)

Many of temples in North and East are facing difficulties with lack of drinking water and essential infrastructure and with their limited number of donors they are not in an economic status to achieve them. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to develop sanitation facilities (lavatory facilities) in 100 selected temples using Rs. 20.24 million donated by Rev. Ming Sheng, Chairman of Gwandoon Buddhist Association, China, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.  Guidelines to provide safer temporary protection to women victimized in violence (Document No – 31)

In addition to providing legal assistance, counselling and medical services, to women victimized by domestic violence, rape, and sexual smuggles there is a need to maintain temporary protection centres. The first protection centre by the government was established in 2012 and subsequently several others have been established in provincial level. Private Centres are also maintained with the assistance of Government Hospitals, Police and NGOs. The guidelines for maintaining such protection centres were presented by Hon. Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, and were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.  Improvement of the press in Department of Examinations Sri Lanka with modern technology (Document No – 32)

The Department of Examinations hold about 270 examinations annually and more than 16,000,000 papers required in this regard are printed in the departmental press. It should be renovated to print papers with good quality and without errors. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to purchase digital printing machines and equipment at an estimated cost of Rs. 530 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.  Making of legislations for calling nominations again for Puthukkudiyiruppu and Muhudubadapaththu Pradeshiya Sabha (Document No – 33)

The Local Government Elections in above Pradeshiya Sabhas in Mullaitivu District was to be held on 17-03-2011 but has been postponed time to time. However nominations are still valid. As some candidates have died and some candidates who presented nominations under the under 35 category have aged beyond 35 years there is a need to call for nominations again. Election for these two local governments should be done under proportional system according to provisions of the Local Government Elections Act but it has been observed that they should also be done under the new mixed system.  Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to direct the Legal Draftsman to draft legislation for enabling the re-call of nominations and holding the election in new mixed system based on divisional system, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.  Relocation of landless idp families in welfare centres (Document No – 35)

There are 971 families still in welfare centres in Jaffna District and 682 families of them are landless families. Steps have been taken to resettle 462 families out of them in alternative lands and lands should be identifies to resettle 220 families. As there are less state lands in Jaffna it has been proposed to purchase private lands of 20 perches for each family. The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to allocate Rs. 88 million to purchase lands through the Jaffna District Secretary, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.  Construction of Baddegama, Wanathawilluwa, Meegahathenna and Katupotha Police Stations (Document No – 37)

A programme is being implemented to construct Police Stations with modern facilities to provide a better service. The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to build new buildings for aforesaid Police Stations which are being located in old or rented buildings at an estimated cost of Rs. 370.3 million, in addition to improvement of existing Police Stations in 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.  construction of Peradeniya Police Station (Document No – 38)

The development of Peradeniya Police Station was to be commenced in 2008 but have been delayed due to various reasons. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to construct the Peradeniya Police Station to suit present day needs at an estimated cost of Rs. 141 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.  prohibiting of importing cinnamon into Sri Lanka and amendment of re-export procedure (Document No – 39)

The Ceylon Cinnamon has been praised in world market due to its unique taste, colour and smell. However, re-exporting of cinnamon of other countries from Sri Lanka has been reported recently which has caused unfavourable situation on Ceylon Cinnamon. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Daya Gamage, Minister of Primary Industries, to prohibit the importation of cinnamon to Sri Lanka and considering the importance of reviewing the re-export procedure, to appoint a Committee of Officials to amend the 'Temporary Importation for Export Processing' procedure, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.  Development of Arrivals passenger terminal at Bandaranaike international Airport, Katunayake (Document No – 41)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the contract for construction of new immigration hall and electronic mall at the BIA as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.  expansion of departure public concourse at Bandaranaike international Airport, Katunayake (Document No – 42)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the above contract as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.  Supply of 10 diesel electric locomotives to Sri Lanka Railways (Document No – 44)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the above contract for procurement of 10 diesel electric locomotives under the Indian loan scheme, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiation Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.  central Expressway – construction of section from Mirigama to Kurunegala (Document No – 45)

The second section of Central Expressway runs from Mirigama to Kurunegala with a length of 39.29 km. The contract in this regard has been divided into four (04) packages and the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award these packages as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.  improvement of infrastructure of government universities (Document No – 46)

The government has given the utmost priority to secure quality education in government universities by improving their infrastructures. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to implement infrastructure development projects in Bhiksu University of Sri Lanka, Wayamba and Ruhuna Universities and Sripali Campus of the University of Colombo and the Trincomalee Campus of Eastern University at an estimated cost of Rs. 2,670 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.  Renovation of the Cardiology Unit in National Hospital, Sri Lanka (Document No – 48)

The Cardiology Unit of National Hospital serves to heart patients all over the island and the renovation of the unit has already been approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. After the commencement of renovation activities, considering the proposals made by Consultant Cardiologists the estimate has been amended by including the instalment of Central Air-condition System and other essential tasks. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to implement renovation activities of the Cardiology Unit under the amended estimate of Rs. 186.32 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.  tender for purchase of antibiotics for government hospitals (Document No – 49)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the tender for purchase of 19,000,000 no. of Co-Amoxiclav tablets BP 625 mg or Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets USP 625 mg for government hospitals as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.  Tender for supply of 30,000 vials of human immunoglobulin for IV use BP, 5-6g vial (Document No – 50)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25.  Procurement for supply of 7,000,000 sets of disposable intravenous solution giving sets for single use (Document No – 51)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

 

26.  supply and installation of operation theatre/icu equipment for epilepsy unit at the national hospital of Sri Lanka (Document No – 52)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award relevant procurement to relevant bidders as recommended by the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, and to re-call bids for equipments which bids have not been presented and for those that price increase has been requested, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

27.  Construction of a new seven storied building in Ananda College Colombo (Document No – 54)

The cabinet has already approved the construction of the above building by removing the five storied Moor Building which has faced the threat of sinking.  Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to award the relevant contract as recommended by the Procurement Appeal Board and Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

28.  'Recent Economic developments: Highlights of 2016 and prospects for 2017' report of the central bank of Sri Lanka (Document No – 60)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to submit the above report in parliament to facilitate annual budget discussions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

29.  Establishment of two regional Consular offices in Matara and Jaffna (Document No – 62)

Cabinet already approved the establishment of two consular offices in Matara and Vavuniya. However, the political authority in North has pointed out that many of the people who need consular assistance is in Jaffna District. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to establish the Consular Office in Jaffna instead of Vavuniya, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

30.  national Policy on constructions (Document No – 63)

The proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to accept the National Policy on Construction and its implementation mechanism prepared by the National Advisory Council on Constructions under the provisions of Construction Industries Development Act no. 33 of 2014 with the view of providing strategic leadership for all parties in construction field, encouraging sustainable development reforms and improvements, promotion of low cost and environmental friendly building materials and systems, suitable research promotions, compilation of standards and norms and promote constructions overseas, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The second reading of the Appropriation Bill for year 2017 (Budget Speech) will be presented by the Finance Minster Ravi Karunanayake today in Parliament.

The second reading will commence at 2. 00 p.m. The Bill titled “Appropriation” was tabled in the House by the Finance Minister on 20th October.

According to Minister Karunanayake, this budged has focused its primary attention towards strengthening the country’s national economy.

He also said that priority has been given to the people’s proposals in preparing Budget 2017 and, the needs and views of the people were taken into consideration in order to make them representatives in Budget 2017. The minister said that among the wide range of groups whose views are included in the budget are: Farmers, fishermen, laborers, small, medium and large scale entrepreneurs, self-employed, industrialists, investors, trade union representatives, civil organizations, political parties, professionals, university teachers, professors and religious leaders.

The budget to be presented today is the 70th budget in Independence Sri Lanka. It is the 3rd budget of the Good Governance government. This year’s theme of the budget is “Towards rapid development with benefits to all”.

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you on your victory at the historic election held on November 8th, to become the 45th President of the United States of America, said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in his congratulatory message to newly elect US President Donald Trump.

He said, despite geographic distance, the bilateral relationship between Sri Lanka and the United States of America span approximately 70 years of formal diplomatic relations, and over 200 years of close people-to-people ties. Today, our partnership is stronger and more robust than it has ever been in history and we value deeply, our engagement and longstanding friendship with the United States of America.

“I am confident that under your leadership and guidance, the United States of America and Sri Lanka will expand and deepen engagement between our two countries and our peoples, exploring progressive avenues for cooperation for mutual benefit. I look forward very much to working with you and your administration towards this objective, in the years ahead.”


Please accept my best wishes for a very successful term of office as the 45th President of the United States of America.

“The Government and the people of Sri Lanka join me in congratulating you on your victory”, said President Maithripala Sirisena sending a congratulatory message to the President-elect of the US, Mr. Donald Trump.


“Sri Lanka and the United States are bound by deeply rooted and longstanding democratic traditions and common values”, said President Sirisena in his message, and stated that the relations between the two countries have been strengthened since his election as President in January 2015.


The President also mentioned that USA is “the adopted home for a significant number of Sri Lankans” and that “they serve as important agents to forge stronger people-to-people bonds, contributing in no small measure to the bilateral relationship between our two countries.”


In the message President Sirisena also mentions that he looks forward to working with him closely upon his assumption of Office as the 45th President of the United States of America in January, and that the two Presidents can “elevate the relationship between our two countries to even further heights.”

President Maithripala Sirisena says he would establish a National Aesthetic Center to take the voice, knowledge and the vision of the great musician of the country, W. D. Amaradewa to the future generation.


He requested all artists and scholars to guide the government in this regard.


The President made these remarks at the cremation ceremony of late great musician W. D. Amaradewa. The cremation ceremony was held yesterday (Nov. 05) at the Independence Square with full state honours.


Following is the full statement made by President Sirisena as a tribute to late great musician.


At this moment the entire country is saddened by the demise of Dr. W. D. Amaradewa.


From the news of the demise of him the people of the entire country, Sri Lankan expatriates, foreign scholars who knew him and his fans were very saddened.


Amaradewa was a great man of the era who awakened the nation. As Prof. Sunil Ariyarathne said there is no other artist who can be placed at par with W. D. Amaradewa. I think everybody indisputably agrees with it.


Though Mr. Amaradewa left us two days ago, I believe that the vision, voice and great values of him have now been reborn. He is eternal and his voice and the vision are alive.


Before 25 years I invited him to come to Polonnaruwa, a difficult area and give his voice and the knowledge to the school children there to provide a valued service. He accepted my invitation with a nice smile and without any condition. He went to Polonnaruwa several times and held a series of programs for the school children in Polonnaruwa.


On a day he went to Polonnaruwa I spent nice evening with him, sitting on a stone slab at the Parakrama Samudraya. He talked about the Parakrama Samudraya, temples and dageba. He spoke about how the art, literature and large farming lands are nicely mixed with the lives of the farmers.


He was awarded as a great artiste nationally and internationally. He became a great artiste through the appreciation of the people of the entire country, scholars, artistes, politicians, government officials, school children and the public. Therefore, Amaradewa was adored by the people in this country. He was considered as a person to be worshipped.


As a government we decided to pay full state respect to him, declare one week of mourning and selected the Independence Square to pay the highest respect to this great pragmatist of the era.


The academics of universities and the field of art as well as our beloved artistes have a responsibility to build our future generation according to the way and the vision of Amaradewa.


We will take the program ahead to establish a Center for Amaradewa, an art institute and national center. I request our beloved veteran artistes to guide the government on this regard.


May the great musician Amaradewa attain Nibbana! May he will be born in our motherland before he attains Nibbana.

The Mass Media Ministry will shortly introduce a foreign scholarship scheme for provincial correspondents and do away with their segregation as provincial Correspondents and issue them a common media identity card as other journalists in the country, said Minister Gayantha Karunathilleke.

He was addressing Provincial Journalists of Matara and Galle at a workshop on the Right to Information Act held at Sea line Hotel, Galle on November 4.

The Minister said Journalists attached to media institutions as well as parliamentary reporters gain opportunity to undertake foreign trips with state leaders through other schemes but Provincial Journalists who did the most amount of work were denied that opportunity.

He said misuse of the media was greatly unfair by the public. Journalists should write with some form of regulation without considering the commercial gains of his or her institution.

Electronic media in particular needs some form of regulation. Such a regulatory procedure would be introduced in future after considering the views, ideas and suggestions of all concerned.

He said he took steps to grant Tabs to Parliamentary Journalists with the co-operation of Minister Harin Fernando. Filing news by fax alone was insufficient these days and journalists should always keep in touch and move forward with new technology. As journalists did not receive a stable salary today he said his ministry hoped to introduce a minimum salary for journalists through an act of Parliament.

A housing programme would be drown hp in future to enable journalists to obtain houses. 

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will leave for Hong Kong today to attend the 15th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK).

It will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from November 3 to 5.

The aim of APK is to strengthen the connections of Asia-Pacific region entrepreneurs and German entrepreneurs.

This will be the initial conference being held without Great Britain.

Prof. Maithree Wickremesinghe, Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrama, Secretary to the Prime Minister Saman Ekanayake, Sri Lanakan Ambassador in China Dr. Karunasena Kodithuwakku, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister Saman Athaudahetti and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Sandra Perera will also participate.

01.  Establishment of an independent centralized procurement institution for purchase of common items used in public institutions (Document No – 05)

The need of establishing a centralized procurement institution to procure common items used in public institutions for minimizing the delay and waste caused in government's procurement procedure and considering the benefit of procuring in large scale, the quality of goods, and gaining the actual value of their prices. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to establish an independent centralized body comprised of five members with expertise in various fields, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.  Construction of a two storied building in Ranaviru Sevana Ragama for making of artificial disability equipment for disabled war heroes (Document No – 08)

Making disability equipment for war heroes is done by the Prosthetic and Orthotics department in Ranaviru Sevana Ragama and around 3,000 war heroes have registered for preparing such equipment for them. As this department is maintained with minimum facilities, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to construct a two storied building in this regard at an estimated cost of Rs. 81.43 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.  Obtaining compensation under the international law on leakage of fuel to the ocean due to accidents in shipping (Document No – 09)

At present, 80 countries have obtained the membership of the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage, which is being enforced since 2008 for paying compensation for parties affected with the spreading of bunker oil due to accidents of ships. As about 5000 ships arrive at Sri Lankan harbours and a large number of ships travel across Sri Lankan sea, there is a high risk for such accidents in the seas surrounding Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is suitable to obtain the membership of this convention and accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to accept this convention and to amend the Marine Pollution Prevention Act No. 35 of 2008 to comply with the said convention, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.  Responsibility of the producer/trader and consumer in waste management in Sri Lanka (Document No – 10)

Despite laws and awareness programmes, producers, traders and consumers irresponsibly dispose naturally non-degradable containers, electrical and electronic waste to the environment. About 60% of polythene and plastic imported to Sri Lanka (210,000 MT) are disposed to the environment. As a measure to this situation it has been proposed to impl,ement the Polluter Pay Principle. This will charge an temporary deposit from the consumer by the trader/producer at the time of purchase of goods and reimburse it when non degradable containers and material are returned. For Electronic and electrical items used for a long period an annual interest calculated on the deposit will also be reimbursed. This will help in proper management of waste by collecting them in proper places. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to appoint a Committee of Officials with representatives from relevant institutions for making recommendations in implemnebnting this method in Sri Lanka and to implement a pilot project according to its recommendations, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.  Development of Maternal and newborn healthcare units of Matara General Hospital (Document No – 11)

The Matara General Hospital provides accommodation for almost a half of residential patients in Matara District. As the hospital is sityuated in a limited space and it has a limited possibility of expansion. Moreover, the productive utilixation of Korea Sri Lanka Friendship Hospital in Godagama, Matara has also been considered. Accordingly it has been proposed to establish the Maternal and Newborn Healthcare Units of the Matara General Hospital in Korea Sri Lanka Friendship Hospital. Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has informed the Cabinet of Ministers that steps have been taken to obtain a grant of USD 8.5 million from the Korea International Cooperation Agency for establishment of a new ward complex in Korea Sri Lanka Friendship Hospital.

06.  Child Activity Survey – 2015/16 (Document No – 12)

Above survey has been conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics and its data base has been prepared and checked. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to prepare its final report and to conduct an awareness programme for relevant institutions and public using additional funds of Rs. 4.35 million granted by the International Labour Organization, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.  Purchasing of soya beans for thriposha production (Document No – 16)

Considering the facts presented by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, and Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, the Cabinet of Ministers have decided as follows.

*        Directly supply 5,000 MT of Soya Beans to Thriposha Company purchased by the National Food Promotion Board from Soya Bean Farmers.

*        Purchase soya beans for the future production of Thriposha from registered Farmers' Organizations by calling for quotations.  

08.  Matara Water Supply Project – stage iv  (Document No – 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to enter into a loan agreement for obtaining a loan of USD 76.83 million and Rs. 2,448.81 million from the National Development Bank to implement the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.  Amendments to the Institute of valuers of Sri Lanka Law No. 33 of 1975 (Document No – 23)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to amend the above laws with necessary timely amendments, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.  Subsidiary agreement between the governments of Sri Lanka and Australia in respect of Skills for inclusive Economic Growth programme (Document No – 24)

The Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training will conduct a programme to enhance skills of youth in Ampara, Batticaloa, Tricomalee, and Polonnaruwa Districts to enter into employments in tourism sector in 2016-2019. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to enter into the above agreement for obtaining financial grants of USD 15 million, agreed to be provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.  Establishment of a multi modal transport hub – Colombo Fort/Pettah (Document No – 30)

Comprehensive Management Plan for the Western Region Megapolis includes establishment of Multi Modal Transport Hub in Colombo Fort/Pettah, by amalgamating all transport modals. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to establish the said transport hub as recommended by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Management, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.  Allocation of a land in Parliament Road Battaramulla to relocate the Thalangama Police Station (Document No – 32)

Thalangama Police Station serves around 170,000 people in 240 Grama Niladhari Divisions. As the Police Station is located in a small land away from the main road within approximately 44 Perches , police officers and general public who comes to obtain services face various difficulties. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to transfer a land of 01 acre owned by the Urban Development Authority to the Ministry of Law and Order and Southern Development to relocate the Police Station, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.  Construction of an International Buddhist centre in line with the International vesak day celebrations 2017 (Document No – 36)

The above Buddhist Centre is proposed to be established in land of Rejidelwatte in Kahapola, Piliyandala which belongs to the Samarakoon legacy. Accordingly, the Shakya Janapada will be reconstructed in the land and a complete Buddhist library, meditation centre, a centre for dhamma oration training both in Sinhala and English, vegetarian cafeteria will also be included. The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to implement this project in association with the non-profit organization Light of Asia, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.  Creation of a charitable trust – Sri Lanka Buddhist Pilgrims Rest (Document No – 37)

The above pilgrims rest in New Delhi, India, which provides facilities to pilgrims visiting India, was transferred to the Sri Lankan government by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru at his reign. The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to establish a charitable trust fund under the Trusts Ordinance, to affirm that the said pilgrims rest is used according to its expected goals, to maintain its proper management, provide quality accommodation for pilgrims and utilize its earnings for charity, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.  Penal code (amendment) bill – (Increase the minimum age of criminal responsibility) (Document No – 38)

Psychologists and other experts have opined that 8 years is far too young an age at which to incur criminal responsibility. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, publish the above bill in gazette and subsequently present in parliament for approval which was drafted amend the Penal Code for changing the minimum age for criminal responsibility as 12 years and in case of a child between 12 and 14 to confer discretion on a Magistrate to determine whether such child has the required degree of maturity to form the requisite intent or to entertain requisite knowledge which serves as the mens rea of the impugned offence, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.  Proposed pension scheme for migrant workers (Document No – 41)

A Committee has been appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers in 2015 propose a pension scheme for migrant workers. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Thalatha Athukorala, Minister of Foreign Employment, to implement the pension scheme prepared by the Committee and to make required amendments to the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Act in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.  Disposal of Segregated Waste of Ministries and public institutions for a proper waste management programme to mitigate the increase of global warming (Document No – 43)

The proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to hand over waste of Ministyries and their affiliated institutions as segregated waste to relevant local government institutions as a preliminary step and to obtain the cooperation of ministers in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.  Compensation for the loss due to the fire break out in the service market shops in Kilinochchi (Document No – 45 and 58)

122 shops have been damaged due to the above fire break out on 16-09-2016. The proposals made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to pay a compensation of Rs. 74 million for affected traders of 122 shops, to establish a modern fire brigade service in the district at a cost of Rs 97 million, and to build a permanent market complex to relocate damaged shops at an estimated cost of Rs. 150 million,  was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.  Refurbishment of Nila Sevana Housing Scheme - Habaraduwa (Document No – 46)

The above housing scheme commenced with the view of providing houses for public servants in 2003 but the construction of 576 housing units have not been continued since 2011 and the relevant land of 13 acres and 09 buildings are being decaying. Hence it is proposed to implement this project changing its scope as a mixed projects for residential and tourist objectives. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Maddumabandara, Minister of Public Administration and Management, and Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to sign an supplementary agreement to the trilateral agreement signed between the Ministry of Public Administration and Management, Board of Investment Sri Lanka and the Project Company, enabling the provision of a part of its housing units for public officers and the rest for accommodation of local and foreign tourists, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.  Acceptance of proposed Colombo Port city development project (Financial City project) as a strategic development project (Document No – 47)

Above project has been resumed after solving issues related to necessary approvals and environment impact. The proposal made by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to accept it as a strategic development project under the article 3(3) of Strategic Development Project Act No. 14 of 2008, and to publish the relevant gazette notification, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.  Construction of upper elahera canal under Mahaweli Water security investment programme (Document No – 48)

Above project is implemented for providing water to North Central Province and the Upper Elahera Canal is constructed as its first phase. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to award the contract for constriuction of the said canal of 6.2 km in length at an estimated cost of Rs. 3,254 million, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.  Construction of North Western canal under Mahaweli Water security investment programme (Document No – 49)

Above project is implemented for providing water for 12,500 hectares of paddy fields. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to award the contract for development of Wemedilla Left Bank canal of 5.25 km to Nebadagahawatte, to build a new sluice gate in Wemedilla Tank, and to construct a canal of 600 m from sluice gate to left bank main canal, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.  Supply of 06 No's of diesel multiple units with air conditioned passenger compartments to Sri Lanka Railways under Indian Line credit (Document No – 50)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the above contact as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.  Improvement of drugs production capacity of the State Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Corporation (Document No – 51)

It is necessary to improve the production capacity of the SPMC to provide good quality drugs with low prices to all hospitals in the country and to save a considerable amount of foreign exchange. The cabinet has already approved the construction of new manufacturing plants with essential infrastructure and equipment in this regard and Japan International Cooperation Agency has granted a credit of Japanese Yen 1,244 million. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the contract in this regard as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Melanie Ann Pustay, the Director, Office of Information Policy, Department of Justice, United States today (1st Nov.) conducted a special lecture at Department of Government Information, Colombo on implementation of Right to Information in Sri Lanka.

The lecture themed, “Implementation of Right to Information at Grass Root Level and the Benefits received by the citizen” was joined by the RTI committee members in Sri Lanka and the journalists representing local and foreign media.

Ms. Melanie expressed the way in which RTI was implemented and practiced for the last five decades in US and encouraged Sri Lanka to go forward with the recently passed world’s seventh best RTI Act and also the second best such Act in South Asia.

President Maithripala Sirisena flew to Thailand on 30th of october to pay his last respects to Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The President placed flowers to pay his last respects to the late King and signed the Book of Condolences.

King Bhumibol, who was the world’s longest reigning monarch, died on 13 October in a hospital in Bangkok at the age of 88 and the Government of Thailand declared a 100-day mourning period in this regard.

Minister Wijedasa Rajapakshe and Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand, Kshenuka Seneviratne accompanied the President to pay last respect to Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

After paying last respects to Thailand’s late King the President returned to the Island yesterday night.

President Maithripala Sirisena said the Right to Information Act, which was passed in Parliament within a short period since the formation of the government to protect and strengthen the people’s rights to information, will be further empowered in the future with the addition of certain provisions to it. He stressed that the policy of the government is to facilitate the media and media personnel so as to strengthen media freedom.

The President made these remarks while addressing the 61st anniversary of the Sri Lanka Press Association at the BMICH on october 25th.

He further added that the government is duty bound to protect and safeguard media freedom and media personnel aiming to protect the right to information of the people.

“Protecting media freedom is among the government’s main policies,” President Sirisena said, addressing a large gathering of media personnel, including media representatives from the Indian Federation of Working Journalists (IFWJ).

He pointed out that the media should perform its duties in a responsible manner. “The media has to play a broad role in the country’s forward march to build a strong media culture. The media is duty bound to inculcate good and noble qualities in people such as patriotism, social responsibilities, social-harmony, personnel and social responsibilities rather than arousing hatred, communalism, racism etc. But, it can be seen that the headlines of certain news papers always carry news relating to hatred, conflict and other negative items,” the President said.

The President further said that he is being continuously attacked by the media. He said that he is happy about this as it symbolises that a vibrant media culture and media freedom thrives under this government.

“I kindly request the media which attack me to remember the situation that prevailed in the country before January 8, 2015 and prior to the formation of the good-governance government. It would have been far better, if these sections of the media which attack me today had the backbone to do the same before January 8, 2015.After January 8, 2015, the media has the freedom to attack even the President,” he said. The President added that no journalist is attacked now, no journalists is killed or no journalist flees and leaves the country due to death threats.

At the ceremony, 10 senior journalists were awarded “Lifetime Achievement Award – 2016” by the President.

Accordingly, senor journalist N.R.J.Aaron who served in many positions including the post of Associate Editor of the Daily News, Giwantha Arthasadh, Praba Ranathunga, Siri Thilakasiri, Wehelle Piyathilaka, A.Laksmi Rajadorei, A.S.Fernando, M.A.M. Nilam and Henry Priyashantha Mendis received the Lifetime Achievement Awards from the President.

The broadcasting license of the Carlton Sports network (CSN), had already been cancelled, since the channel failed to adhere to transmission regulations, said Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunatilake.

He made this observation responding to a question raised by UPFA MP Dinesh Gunawardena under Standing Order 23(2).

He said it was a decision related only to the administration of television network and not related to any issue concerning journalists who were attached to it.

The minister said CSN had violated broadcasting regulations by changing its official address without prior notice to the Secretary of the Mass Media Ministry. They have also failed to submit their audited annual accounts to the Secretary.

Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said that the CSN had failed to pay Rs. 1,000 million rupees that was imposed on it though we sent them many reminders to pay up the due amount. That was the most important and valid reason for the cancellation of their broadcasting license.

Raising the question under Standing Order 23(2), MP Dinesh Gunawardena urged the government to reverse the decision of cancelling the broadcasting license of Carlton Sports Network (CSN) charging that it was an illegal decision taken by the government.

According to reasons provided by the Mass Media Ministry Secretary, the address of the CSN had been changed without prior approval of the Secretary, while the reason he has given under Item 11 on the license. The license had not become affiliated to a registered political party in the event of the licensee selecting to surrender the license.

The third reason given by the Secretary was that the license should submit audited annual accounts to the secretary within the first three months of the following financial year.

Based on these three reasons, the government had taken measures to cancel the license of this popular TV network. He queried as to whether the government would take measures to reverse its illegal decision enabling to continue with the transmission of the TV channel or whether the government would accept that they have breached the constitutional and legal rights of the channel.

He further said CSN did not have any affiliation to any political party by adding that a business belonging to a family member of a politician could not be labeled as a business of a political party which he represents. “In other countries, even Presidential candidates have declared some television channels. We do not expect to do the same here,” he added. Changing the address could not be accepted as a reasonable fact to cancel the license of this channel. He also stressed the necessity of conducting a proper investigation before taking such a decision.

The Right to Information (RTI) Act will be implemented from 4 February 2017, Deputy Minister, Karunarathna Paranawithana said at yesterday's Cabinet press briefing. He added that information officers are currently being trained and after they are stationed in government institutions, the general public will be able to access important information that affects their daily lives.

Earlier, Director General of the Government Information Department, Ranga Kalansooriya told media that the government would attempt to provide as much information as possible for the public.

"We try to get as much information as possible because the alternative is giving space for rumours, which is much more dangerous. And there are times when we have to change the story because of new evidence that is uncovered. But at the end of the day someone should be responsible," he said.

The RTI Act was passed earlier this year and the government said that it will establish a special office to disseminate information on the Right to Information Act (RTIA) in Battaramulla.

01.    Development (Special Provisions) Bill (Document No – 08)


Sri Lanka has given priority to accelerate the development process and it is necessary to make legislations in this regard. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament for approval, the Development (Special Provisions) Bill prepared for making provisions for creating a national policy on all subjects regarding the development and for economic development, establishment of the Development Agency, policy making for rural modernization and regional development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Memorandum of understanding among the member states of Indian Ocean Rim Association for search and rescue operation coordination and cooperation on victims in Indian Ocean region (Document No – 12)


The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to enter into the above MoU among member states of the IORA for establishing a framework for coordination of above operations, and to improve consultation and cooperation within states in the Indian Ocean region for facing issues faced by them, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Capital market strategy 2016-2020 (Document No – 13)

Although the capital market plays a major role in economic development and sustainable development in rising economies in the world Sri Lanka has not used its potentials. Hence, the capital market of Sri Lanka should be converted into an efficient and interesting place for share issuers, investors, institutions, and mediators. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to follow the Capital Market Strategy 2016-2020 that proposes regulatory and development actions to be followed by the Sri Lankan government, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


04.    Reliefs for water consumers affected by the drought (Document No – 20)


The Water Supply and Drainage Board has faced difficulties regarding 54 water supply schemes during the dry spell in last two months. Therefore the information presented by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, that about 70 bowsers have been deployed for uninterrupted supply of water to affected consumers, a special team has been attached to each regional office of the board to supply water within 24 hours and people have been informed to use water thrifty through media, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Providing reliefs for construction of new houses instead of houses damaged by landslides occurred in Haliela and Badulla Divisional Secretary's Divisions (Document No – 21)


Landslides in Haliela and Badulla Divisional Secretary's Divisions have completely destroyed 24 houses in 2014. The proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to grant an amount of Rs. 1,250,000 for each family to rebuild their houses and to allocate Rs. 30 million in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Assessment of damages to houses and property due to sudden disasters (Document No – 22)


Lack of trained field officers to undertake assessment of damages has caused delays in providing reliefs to affected victims. As a measure to this issue, the proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to recruit 30 retired Technical Officers in Divisional Secretary's divisional level for a period of 03 months and to accelerate the process of paying compensation to victims of explosion in Salawa Camp, landslide in Kegalle in May 2016, and floods occurred in May 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Establishment of a new laboratory building for Sri Lanka Standards Institution in Malabe (Document No – 23)


The proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to purchase a land of 03 acres in Malabe IT Park for Rs. 168 million and to implement the construction of the laboratory with Rs. 550 million to expand laboratory services of the SLSI to improve its efficiency and productivity, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


08.    Completion of the third floor of Provincial Ayurveda Hospital, Anuradhapura (Document No – 26)


Two floors of the building which the merchant ward complex is located have been completed. There has been an increasing demand for Ayurveda treatments nowadays and there is a high demand from local and foreign patients for 08 merchant rooms in this hospital. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to complete the construction of the third floor of this building which has been planned by including 10 merchant rooms at an estimated cost of Rs. 30 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Construction of buildings for Medirigiriya Ayurveda hospital (Document No – 27)


About 90 patients daily obtain treatments from the Dispensary of Medirigiriya Ayurveda Centre in Polonnaruwa District. It has been observed that successful outcome may be gained through long term ayurvedic treatment for the chronic kidney disease prevailed in the area. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to build the necessary buildings to improve the Dispensary of the Medirigiriya Ayurveda Centre as a Hospital at an estimated cost of Rs. 37 million, to enable patients from adjoining Hingurakgoda, Thamankaduwa and Lankapura Divisional Secretary's divisions to get residential treatments, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Repayment of security deposit holders of the golden key credit card company (Document No – 31)


As decided by the Cabinet of Ministers, under the scheme approved by the Supreme Court Rs. 544.3 million and Rs. 3,945.6 million have been released respectively for first and second tranches by the General Treasury. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to release Rs. 4,055.1 million as its last tranche to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and to take swift action to dispose the assets of Golden Key Credit Card Company and its subsidiaries and to credit the proceeds of the disposed assets to the General Treasury, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Construction of by-pass road from Polduwa junction, Battaramulla to Udumulla junction via ‘suhurupaya' (Document No – 38)


The government's policy is to relocate all government institutions in Battaramulla, within the Sri Jayewardenepura Administrative City. Many of these institutions have already been relocated and in line with this infrastructure such as roads and transportation should be provided immediately. Hence, it has been proposed to construct a by-pass road of 4 km from Polduwa junction to Koswatta junction. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to extend the road planned to be constructed from Polduwa Junction to Suhurupaya to Udumulla Junction and to undertake its construction at an estimated cost of Rs. 250 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Project on appropriate action on minimizing of emission of greenhouse gases in energy production and use (Document No – 44)


World Leaders have agreed to keep the global warming less than 2 Celsius degrees in the next year at the Paris Agreement in 2015. Compared to major countries emitting greenhouse gases such as China (20.08%), USA (17.89%), Russia/India/Japan/Canada (aggregated 17.34%), Sri Lanka's emission is only 0.05%. However, the government of Sri Lanka is bound to reduce the emission from 20% by 2030 the amount which was emitted in 2010. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to implement a project on supervising and reporting the Sri Lanka's contribution in reducing greenhouse gases with the help of Global Environment Facility, United Nations Development Programme, and private sector,  was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Appointment of a committee to consider reforms to the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act (Document No – 46)


As some provisions in Muslim Law including the minimum age for marriage are not conformed to the norms stipulated in some international conventions which Sri Lanka is holding the membership, it is necessary to amend those provisions. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Dr. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to appoint a Cabinet Sub-committee to make proposals to the Cabinet of Ministers regarding suitable amendments to the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act,  was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    National Action plan for Children in Sri Lanka 2016-2020 (Document No – 48)


The proposal made by Hon. Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, to implement the above action plan prepared by institutions and ministries relevant to the subjects of education, health, justice, labour, media, water supply, to make an environment that is suitable for growth and development of children, and to appoint a National Steering Committee with representative from relevant parties, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Implementation of a pilot project of printing selected number of school textbooks in long-lasting synthetic paper (Document No – 49)


The government spends about Rs. 3,500 million annually for providing free school textbooks and the Department of Educational Publications has implemented a programme to improve the reuse of textbooks it has been observed that a certain book could not be used more than three (03) years. Hence, about 70% of textbooks have to be reprinted annually. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to print selected number of textbooks in long-lasting and high quality synthetic paper as a pilot project in 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.    Regularization and expedition of the receipt of court fines and stamp duties levied on transfer of lands to the local authorities (Document No – 51)


The proposal made by Hon.  Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to amend the article number 19 of the Provincial Councils Act No. 42 of 1987 for improving the efficiency of transferring above income to local authorities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    Organizing an international sports workshop, exhibition and a Festival (Document No – 54)


The Ministry of Sports has planned to hold the above event within the first quarter of 2017 in Galle Face Colombo, with the participation of about 8,000 local and foreign sportsmen with the view of promoting 07 selected sports in Sri Lanka internationally. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to appoint a steering committee chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of Sports to organize this event and to enter into a MoU with a Malaysian company regarding its implementation and to obtain the contribution and cooperation in making this event a success, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    Completion of the building in Kollupitiya police station (Document No – 55)

The development of Kollupitiya Police Station was commenced in 2007 and has discontinued due to various reasons. The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to complete the balance work of the building within 2017-2019 at an estimated cost of Rs. 153.3 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Projects implemented within 2016-2018 for improving IT literacy (Document No – 56)

The proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to implement the two (02) projects i.e. e-Grama Niladhari Project and Internet of Things Project implemented conjointly by the Ministry of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure and the Ministry of Home Affairs respectively at a cost of Rs. 662 million and Rs. 133 million in 2016-2018, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.    Installation of a new CCTV system instead of the old one in parliament chamber (Document No – 60)

The Cabinet has already approved the replacement of existing sound system, CCTV system, master clock system, and the telephone exchange in parliament.  Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to award the contract for installing a new digital TV system as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.    Erection of an 800 km long electric fence around villages with wild elephant threat (Document No – 61)

Due to elephant-man conflict 60-80 human lives and lives of more than 200 wild elephants are lost annually. The most productive measure to control this conflict is identified as constructing electric fences. About 3300 km long fences have been constructed so far in this regard. Construction of fences of 275 km is under way for 2016. It has been planned to erect 800 km long fences in 2017 in 07 wildlife zones and the proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to purchase required material in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.    Improvement of high frequency transmitting centre in Attidiya (Document No – 62)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the contract for installation of three aeronautical high frequency transmitters with antennas as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.    Implementation of the Pannala – Makandura – Kuliyapitiya integrated water supply project (Document No – 63)

The above project which covers Pannala area, part of Makandura area and part of Kuliyapitiya (East and West) and Udubaddawa Divisional Secretary's divisions expects to provide safe drinking water to about 112,000 beneficiaries. The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to award this contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.    Construction of a Warehouse complex in Embilipitiya area (Document No – 65)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to award the contract for construct the above warehouse complex with an extent of 28,500 square feet including research lab, office building, accommodation, water tank transformer room as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25.    Construction of Vocational Training Centre, Ahangama (Document No – 66)

The cabinet has already approved the construction of above centre under the Skills Sector Development Programme 2014-2020. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to award the above contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

26.    Agro-based industries and infrastructure facilities development project (Document No – 67)

The Government of China has agreed to finance the above project implemented under the Rajarata Navodaya Presidential Programme and Pibidemu Polonnaruwa Development Projects. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to award the contract for implementing the above project as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiations Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


27.    Encouraging the consumption of foods of good quality under the National Programme on food production (2016 – 2018) (Document No – 68)


The main attention has been focused on promoting consumption of quality foods to prevent increasing non communicable diseases caused by foods cultivated with chemical materials, and the main challenge in this regard is the lack of quality seeds.

Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to purchase 400,000 kg of suitable seed paddy of traditional varieties with the assistance of the Department of Agriculture and Department of Agrarian Services, and to distribute them free of charge among selected farmers and to provide them the necessary technical knowledge in Maha season 2016/2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

28.    Construction of 3,000 Rain Water harvesting Tanks in Jaffna District by the Government of India (Document No – 69)

Office on National Unity and Reconciliation has presented a proposal to the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka for providing a sustainable drinking water source for the Jaffna peninsula. Considering the proposal the High Commission has agreed to provide Rs. 300 million for construction of 3,000 Rain Water Harvesting Tanks. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of National Unity and Reconciliation, to sign a MoU between the governments of Sri Lanka and India in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

29.    Obtaining a credit of special drawing rights being the equivalent of united states dollars 75 million from the international development association of the world bank for the social safety nets project (Document No – 70)

The government has planned to implement the Social Safety Nets Project 2017-2022 for improving equity, efficiency and transparency of Social safety net projects in Sri Lanka.

The International Development Association has agreed to provide required credit facilities in this regard. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to enter into a financial agreement with the World Bank for obtaining the above credit equivalent to USD 75 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

A special ceremony was held at Temple Trees yesterday under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to mark the 60th anniversary of two artistic masterpieces, Maname by Professor Ediriweera Sarachchandra and Rekhawa by Dr. Lester James Peries. Sarachchandra produced his first stylist play Maname in 1956 to widespread acclaim. Rekhawa is the first film on village life and mythical belief of Sri Lankans directed by Dr. Peries. Picture shows Dr.Lester James Peries receiving an award from the Prime Minister. Sumithra Peries is also in the picture.

Department of Census and Statistics regularly gather data in a vast range through Censes and Surveys and quarterly calculate various indexes /Journalists mayassist policy makers by accurately reporting statistical data through media. Furthermore, the assistance of journalists is essential in gathering accurate data at institutional and household level as well as in raising public awareness in its relation.

 in view of the above, the Department of Census and Statistics in collaboration with the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media had been organized a workshop on “The use of  Statistics for Media Reporting”  It was held on 20.10.2016 from 8.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.at Water’s Edge, Baththaramulla.

Hon.Niroshan Perera, State Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, Mr.M.I.M.Rafeek, Secretary to the Ministry, Mr.Nimal Bopage, Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and Dr. A.J. Satharasinghe, Director General of the Depatrment of Census and Statistics were gracing the occasion.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who is on an official visit to Belgium on Tuesday met the President of the European Commission Jean Claude Junker at the EC headquarters in Berlaymont palace, Brussels.


They held discussions in detail regarding the current political situation in Sri Lanka under President Maithripala Sirisena, which is based on peace and reconciliation.


According to the EC President under these circumstances, Sri Lanka has a great chance to regain the GSP Plus and he assured his fullest cooperation towards Sri Lanka without any hesitation.

President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, has requested to implement the project for preparing the third communication report with the grant assistance provided under Global Environment Facility of the United Nations Development Programme, and to submit the same to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers said minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka.


 Minister said that Sri Lanka ratified UNFCCC in 1993. According to its 12th article member states should provide a communication report consisting of information on climate change and and 2012.

01.    Preparation of Sri Lanka's third national communication report on climate change (Document No – 10)

Sri Lanka ratified United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1993. According to its 12th article member states should provide a communication report consisting of information on climate change and Sri Lanka has presented its second and and 2012. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement the project for preparing the third communication report with the grant assistance provided under Global Environment Facility of the United Nations Development Programme, and to submit the same to UNFCCC, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


02.    Construction of a new three storied building for Negombo regional Engineering Office of the Department of Coast Conservation (Document No – 11)

The Regional Engineering Office constructed in 1987 in Negombo undertakes planning of coast conservation activities and regulation and control of development activities in a coastal area of 250 square kilometres in Gampaha, Puttalam and Mannar Districts. The building is older than 30 years and does not suit present-day needs. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to construct a new three storied building at an estimated cost of Rs. 60 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Improvement of living status of communities living near wildlife zones (Document No – 12)

The Cabinet has already approved the removal of people living in elephant migratory pathways. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to evacuate people in the initial step in North-western, Uva and Southern zones and implement basic surveys and awareness programmes for such communities and assign these tasks to the Wildlife Trust, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Act for the amendment of Divineguma Act No. 1 of 2013 (Document No – 16)

The cabinet of ministers has already approved the amendment of the above act as per the request of rural level officers who coordinates programmes related to improvement of living standards of low income communities, to use the term 'Samurdhi' instead of 'Divineguma'. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament for approval the amendment bill drafted by the Legal Draftsman in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Enactment of anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard legislation in Sri Lanka (Document No – 18)

The joint proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, and Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament after clearance by the Attorney General, the two bills drafted on anti-dumping and countervailing and on safeguard measures with the view of facing unjust trade practices of some countries as well as protecting domestic industries and manufacturers from uncontrolled imports, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06.    Formulation of a method to sell paddy after converting into rice (Document No – 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to formulate a method to distribute paddy among consumers through Lanka Sathosa, Cooperatives and whole sale dealers by converting into rice with rice processing centres in Pannegamuwa and Hingurakgoda owned by Cooperative Wholesale Corporation and private rice processing centres with the view of stabilising the price of rice and continue operations in above rice processing centres, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    Amendment of the intellectual properties act No 36 of 2003 for affirming security of geographical indices inherited to Sri Lanka (Document No – 21)

A geographical index is a name or sign used on certain products which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin, and such indices are an asset to that country. Ceylon Tea and Ceylon Cinnamon are such indices identified by the Intellectual Properties Act No. 36 of 2003. However, manufacturers and exporters face difficulties as there is no legal framework on registration of geographical indices. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, as per the recommendations of the Committee of Officials appointed in this regard to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament the bill to amend the Intellectual Properties Act No 36 of 2003 authorising the relevant minister on making directions on protecting, registering and certifying any product originated in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Establishment of an Industrial and Techno Development super zone in Raigama, Kaluthara (Document No – 22)

The government's concept is to setup industrial estates with the view of spread the industrial development to rural areas, produce value added products with rural resources, and increase highly paid employment opportunities in rural areas. Hence, it has been decided to establish 11 Industrial and Technological Development Zones island wide and Rs. 500 million has been allocated by budget 2016 to establish 04 super zones in Hambantota, Raigama, Mahaoya and Trincomalee.  Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to setup the above Industrial and Technological super zone in Raigama in Kaluthara District, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Feasibility study on five light railway transits (LRT) proposed to be constructed in Western region (Document No – 25)

The Cabinet has already approved the construction of 07 LRTs in Western Region as a long-term measure to cater future transport demand. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has agreed to assist construction of 02 LRTs. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Developing Acland House into a Boutique Hotel with advanced facilities and services (Document No – 27)

Acland House (Wisumpaya) built as a cafeteria for Officers in Rifle Regiment is gradually decaying and it is required to renovate the building without damaging its antique value. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to develop it into a Boutique Hotel for high-end guests, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Transfer Oluwil Fisheries Harbour to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Document No – 28)

Oluwil Harbour, which is a largest fisheries harbour in Eastern Province, has a depth of 3.5 m and many facilities including anchoring of many multiday vessels. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to transfer this harbour which is currently administrated by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority to the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation which is under the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development with the view of developing fisheries industry in the province and making it a profitable harbour, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Developing an IT backbone for the tea industry – Sri Lanka Tea Board (Document No – 32)

Although there is a high price for Sri Lankan Tea with its qualities in the world market, increase of producing cost and global situations has gradually reduced the profit in the industry. In this situation, to affirm the quality of products the Tea Board supervises all steps in the process of manufacturing. The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to introduce an IT backbone to improve efficiency of these tasks at an estimated cost of Rs. 220 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Physical and spiritual development programme which is activated under the project of "punyagrama" (Document No – 35)

The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to project of establishing water filters in temples that are being maintained with many difficulties in areas which has drinking water related issues including North, North-central, and Eastern Provinces where the chronic kidney disease is prevailed, using Rs. 24 million allocated in this regard for the year 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14.    Improvement of productivity in the livestock sector in Sri Lanka (Document No – 36)

The proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to allocate treasury funds of Rs. 1,402 million to establish a new Food Technology Laboratory in Veterinary Research Institute, modernize the vaccine production centre of the Veterinary Research Institute, setup multi-sectorial Bodies at district level for Rabies control and formulate a national programme for surveillance of diseases of wildlife, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15.    Obtaining a land for construction of the Monaragala District Sports Complex and Monaragala Indoor stadium (Document No – 37)

The proposal made by Hon. Kabir Hashim, Minister of Public Enterprise Development, to allocate a land of 10 acres in extent from the Kumarawatta estate owned by the Land Reforms Commission and currently enjoyed by the Janatha Estate Development Board for construction of above mentioned sports complex and indoor stadium, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16.    Commence a value added processing zone in Elpitiya (Document No – 39)

In line with the government's policy of establishing 23 agricultural mega zones it is planned to establish the above processing zone in Elpitiya in Galle District providing employment opportunities and a high export income to the region. Accordingly, the joint proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media, Hon. Daya Gamage, Minister of Primary Industries, to allocate a land of 200 acres in Igalkanda and Ketapalawatta owned by the Elpitiya Plantation Company, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17.    Accelerated programme for middle income housing and infrastructure development (Document No – 40)

It is expected to construct 500,000 housing units within 05 years under the above programme for providing houses for affordable prices for government and private sector employees with a middle income. According to the recommendations of the national steering committee appointed in this regard, the proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to implement Iskagarawatte Housing Scheme with 332 housing units in Kundasale and Mount Clifford Housing Scheme with 860 housing units in Homagama, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18.    National plan for women headed households (Document No – 42)

In empowering of women who comprises of 52% of overall population a priority attention should be made to women headed households which are 24.3% of overall families in country. The proposal made by Hon. Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, to implement the national initiative with the objective of affirming women's contribution in development process under the fields of physico-social support, livelihood development, security, social protection, national level policy making and community awareness, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19.    Amendment of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation Act No. 28 of 1961 (Document No – 45)

The government has noted the importance of transferring Ceylon Petroleum Corporation to the regulatory scope of the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Chandima Weerakkody, Minister of Petroleum Resources Development, to amend the above act to achieve this objective, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20.    Amendment of the Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority act No. 17 of 1999 (Document No – 46)

Administrative and maintenance activities of Sugathadasa indoor and outdoor stadiums, Sugathadasa Swimming Pool, Bogambara outdoor stadium in Kandy, Racecourse in Nuwara Eliya and swimming pool in Beliatta are done by the Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority. This provides sporting facilities to concessionary rates and its income is insufficient for its maintenance. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Minister of Sports, to amend the above act to enable these stadiums to be provided for other events such as artistic events, conferences, examinations etc. when not used in sporting activities to gain a sufficient income, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21.    Construction of a radial and solid tyre plant in Sri Lanka (Document No – 49)

The proposal made by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to facilitate an investor through the Sri Lankan Investment Board, who wishes to establish a radial and solid tyre plant in Horana area that aims 60% of its production to the export market and creates more than 1,000 employment opportunities with an investment of US$ 75 million within 4 years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22.    Procurement of 163 new engine kits for Sri Lanka Transport Board (Document No – 55)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to procure 163 Ashok Leyland new engine kits for Sri Lanka Transport Board under Indian grant assistance, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiation Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23.    Procurement of 20 Nos. container carrier wagons and 30 nos. Fuel Tank Wagons to Sri Lanka Railways (Document No – 57)

The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to award the above contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Negotiation Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24.    "Rajarata Navodaya" presidential programme – District Development projects – "Let us awakening Polonnaruwa" 2016-2020 (Document No – 59)


Construction of Government Servant's quarters and Administrative Building Complex in Polonnaruwa New Town, Reconstruction of Railway Quarters for Kaduruwela town development, and construction of Thamankaduwa Divisional Secretariat in Polonnaruwa New Town are 4 special projects identified under the above programme implemented according to a concept by H.E. the President. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to entrust structural engineering designs and construction of above to Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau/ Central Engineering Services (Private) Ltd at an estimated cost of Rs. 4,120 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25.    Implementation of Lanka Government Network 2.0 (LGN) (Document No – 66)

The reducing of the data transmission speed of the LGN, introduced by the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) within 2007-2012 for maintaining digital interaction between public institutions and general public and among public institutions, is a major obstacle to achieve the government's aim of digitalizing the economy. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to implement the Lanka Government Network 2.0 aiming providing high speed connectivity and free Wi-Fi services for E-Government activities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

President Maithripala Sirisena stated that not only our country, but the whole world has to face the consequences of environmental pollution and further emphasized that the present Government follows a very stern policy against the environmental degradation.

He made these remarks addressing the main launching ceremony of the “Sri Lanka NEXT – Blue Green Era” policy initiative, held at the BMICH, today (18).

President Sirisena also emphasized that if any individual or institution take actions to harm the environment the Government will not hesitate to enforce the laws against the wrongdoers. He also said that as the Minister of Environment recently, he took strong decisions against several these kinds of  incidents reported in various parts of the country.

The President said that the state officials and the institutions responsible for the environmental conservation should act in a responsible manner, in this regard and said that he believed the relevant authorities will fulfill their respective responsibilities honourably by taking effective steps against the smugglers.

The year 2017 has been declared as a year of eradication of poverty in the country , the President said that adding all the initiatives in this regard will be implemented giving priority to the sustainable development and further said that it is one of the main objectives of the Government.

“The Government has understood the importance of moving towards natural resources while resolving issues related the energy field,” he added.

A series of programs for taking Sri Lanka towards a green era are being carried out from Oct. 17, 18, 19 at the BMICH. The Asia Pacific Conference on climate change simulations commenced yesterday with participation of 500 foreign scientists.

International Research Seminar, film exhibition on environment, exhibition on environmental creations and productions, specialists’ dialog and a global youth society on climate change were held parallel to this summit.

Over 80 Presidential Awards were presented at the main ceremony held today. The Green Climate Fund offered 38. 18 millions USD to Sri Lanka at this occasion.

The first copy of the publication on climate change, prepared by the Climate Change Secretariat of the Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment was presented to the President.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghes’s dedication and sacrifice to convert Sri Lanka into a democratic state which is dedicated to Good Governance is highly appreciated by the European Council, said President of the European Union Donald Tusk.


Meeting with the visiting Sri Lankan delegation led by PM Wickremesinghe on Monday (17th Oct.) at the EU headquarters in Brussels, he assured his fullest cooperation towards Sri Lanka as a special consideration to get GSP Plus back.


According to him, PM Wickremesinghe has stated about a unity government at several elections and today it has become an exemplary to the whole region.


Further commending on the honesty, determination, and the sacrifice made by Premier Wickremesinghe to establish political stability in Sri Lanka under the leadership of President Maithripala Sirisena, he added that Sri Lanka is very near to GSP Plus relief with the current political, and social reforms, taking place in the country.


Prime Minister Wickremesinghe expressing his gratitude to the European community for supporting Sri Lanka including GSP Plus relief, extended an invitation to Mr. Tusk from President Sirisena to visit Sri Lanka. Accepting the invitation, Mr. Tusk said that he would visit Sri Lanka next year.


He further requested the Premier to pay more attention towards illegal migrants from Sri Lanka to Europe. In his response to the President Tusk, PM Wickremesinghe assured that this issue will receive a solution when the development process is continued. A Task Force with the assistance of the Law and Order, Resettlement, and Justice Ministries, Department of Immigration and Emigration, and EU will also be established.


This would be the first time that a Sri Lankan political leader held discussions with a President of the European Union.

Department of Census and Statistics regularly gather data in a vast range through Censes and Surveys and quarterly calculate various indexes /Journalists mayassist policy makers by accurately reporting statistical data through media. Furthermore, the assistance of journalists is essential in gathering accurate data at institutional and household level as well as in raising public awareness in its relation.

  in view of the above, the Department of Census and Statistics in collaboration with the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media has organized a workshop on “The use of  Statistics for Media Reporting”  It will be scheduled on 20.10.2016 from 8.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.at Water’s Edge, Baththaramulla.

 Hon.Niroshan Perera, State Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, Mr.M.I.M.Rafeek, Secretary to the Ministry, Mr.Nimal Bopage, Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and Dr. A.J. Satharasinghe, Director General of the Depatrment of Census and Statistics will grace the occasion

President Maithripala Sirisena reiterated the the government's commitment to establish a BIMSTEC Centre for Technology Transfer, to facilitate a collective drive for economic advancement.

“To take Sri Lanka to the next stage of development, the vision of my government is to create a knowledge based competitive social market economy which is integrated with the world”, he said.

The President made these remarks, addressing the BIMSTC Summit held in Goa, India yesterday.

“The full potential of regional cooperation however remains yet to be realised. We need to change course now to fulfill the expectations of our people to deliver a strong growth dividend through economic and technical cooperation”, the President pointed out.

“Diversification and modernisation of economies, infrastructure development, knowledge exchange, increased access to technology, enhanced capacity building, expansion of trade and investment can no longer be held back”, the President further stated.

Following are excerpts of President Sirisena’s speech:

“Our presence today is a clear demonstration of the unity of purpose and solidarity in working towards the effective realisation of BIMSTEC objectives.

“Since its inception in 1997, BIMSTEC meetings have resulted in adoption of several declarations focusing on achieving prosperity in the region. We need to regain, through meaningful and outcome oriented collaboration, the legitimacy that underpins any serious regional framework.

“My government’s approach to regional cooperation and inter-regional collaboration is be based upon friendship with all and enmity towards none. In the inter-dependent world that we see today no country or people can seek to prosper in isolation. In the same vein, none can be cast away as unimportant or irrelevant given that challenges are of a cross-cutting nature.

“We need to consolidate peace, ensure security and prosperity for all our citizens. “While strengthening BIMSTEC our vision of providing the nexus between SAARC and ASEAN needs to be further explored.

“It is timely to reorient the organization to meet one of its original expectations that is to enhance inter-regional trade, investment and tourism. I am happy to reiterate the commitment of the government of Sri Lanka to establish a BIMSTEC Centre for Technology Transfer to contribute to our collective drive to economic advancement.

“To take Sri Lanka to the next stage of development, the vision of my government is to create a knowledge based competitive social market economy which is integrated with the world. In conclusion, I seek your support for the success of the irreversible journey that my country has undertaken towards advancement of peace and prosperity since the establishment of the National Unity Government last year,” President Sirisena said.

Primacy or the priority that has been given to Buddhism by the Constitution does not need to change as there is a big consent among all political parties to keep it as it is, said the Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathne Paranawithane.

Addressing the weekly Cabinet briefing today at the Department of Government Information, Deputy Minister also the Acting Minister added that although there were dissent opinions in the country in this regard, different religious leaders have expressed their consent for Buddhism to be given priority. “Finally, the matter will be resolved at the Constitutional Assembly.”

When the minister was asked about establishing of a branch of a religious movement in Vavuniya, he replied that although how many ‘Senaa’ were there, there was no ‘Senaawa’ (People) with them.

Replying to a question as to whether the Buddhism would be declared as the state religion of the country, he added that they are not going to declare Buddhism as the state religion. “In Sri Lanka we don’t have a state religion. What we have done is we have given Buddhism the first and foremost place”, he said.

01. Construction of a jetty at Naval dockyard Trincomalee (Document No – 13)

The Trincomalee harbour, which is one of the deepest natural harbours in the world and the second deepest harbour in Asia, could not be developed due to terrorist activities in recent past. The largest camp of Sri Lanka Navy is situated here and its naval dockyard is home for Eastern Command of Navy and for the Naval and Maritime Academy. Construction of a jetty to facilitate anchoring of bigger ships has begun in 1990 but has discontinued due to various reasons. The navy is expecting to achieve 04 larger ships within 2017-2019 for increasing patrols in Sri Lankan coastline. Hence, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to construct the proposed jetty of 220m long and 20m wide in the Trincomalee dockyard with an access bridge to facilitate the anchoring of larger ships, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


02. Building and maintaining of buildings in public and semi government institutions as green buildings (Document No – 14)
Our forefathers have built their shelters to suit the tropical climate in simple plans and good quality. However, recently they buildings are being built imitating foreign buildings without considering the climate in Sri Lanka and they are based on artificial light and air-conditioning as they have no access to natural sunlight and air. This has caused many environmental, economic and technological issues. Buildings designed to use energies and resources efficiently and built with environmental friendly material and techniques are called green buildings and they are vital to achieve sustainable development. Accordingly, the committee appointed to make recommendations on converting buildings in public institutions to green buildings has prepared 'Green Building Guidelines' with the agreement of relevant ministries. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement these guidelines, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


03. Filling of existing teaching vacancies (Document No – 16)
There should be an ample number of teachers in government schools to affirm equal access to qualitative education. However, there is a deficit of 22,500 teachers in the island. Sufficient teachers or resources have not been provided for rural schools to teach science, maths and English. As a solution to this issue, it has been decided to recruit youth who have passed AL and qualified to university entrance after completing a degree of Bachelor of Education (Science) or Bachelor of Education (Arts) from a private university approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Highways to the teaching service in addition to graduates from government universities and diploma holders of Teachers Training Colleges. The government will grant a loan of Rs. 275,000 for selected youths through a bank and after completion of the degree they should serve 10 years in a school where a vacancy exists in a selected area. If they serve for 10 years as mentioned above, the loan granted for them will not be collected. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to recruit 5000 youths as Science and Maths Teachers as its first stage, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

It has also decided to authorise the Ministry of Education to expeditiously recruit graduates to solve the deficit of Science Teachers in government schools.
04. Implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding proposed to be signed between Sri Lanka and Pakistan regarding youth development (Document No – 17)

Signing of the above MoU has already been approved by the Cabinet it was prepared by including amendments proposed later by Pakistan. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to sign the above MoU between the Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Interprovincial Coordination in Pakistan, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


05. Affirm protection in unprotected railway crossings (Document No – 20)
There are 676 unprotected railway crossings in Sri Lanka. There should be 2028 gatekeepers as 03 for each gate but currently only 1,953 gatekeepers are in service for the safety of pedestrians, passengers, and vehicles. They are providing an honorary service receiving a monthly allowance of Rs. 7,500 as Rs. 250 per day without getting any salaries, wages and other privileges entitled to government servants. Considering the request of these gatekeepers that this allowance is inadequate, the Committee of Officials appointed in this regard has recommended to grant the monthly allocation of Rs. 22,500/- to 03 gatekeepers in a gate as an allowance allocated to a gate, and to prepare an internal arrangement to share this allowance among gatekeepers, and expeditiously install "Bell and Light" giving priority to accident-prone crossings as a long term measure. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to implement above recommendations, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


06. Providing water supply facilities for resettlement villages in Kegalle District (Document No – 25)
About 2000 families have been temporarily settled in 65 places due to destruction of houses or evacuation due to landslides and landslide warnings in Kegalle District. They have been planned to resettle in 11 Divisional Secretary Divisions in Kegalle District. Water supply should be provided expeditiously to 45 such places identified for resettlement. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to provide necessary water supply facilities at an estimated cost of Rs. 455 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


07. Permanent transference of the freshwater hatchery in Panapitiya, Kaluthara to the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) (Document No – 36)


The ornamental fishery is an industry with high potentials that can considerably contribute in generating employment opportunities and NARA is conducting successful researched regarding ornamental fishery. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to permanently transfer the freshwater hatchery in Panapitiya, Kaluthara to the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) which is currently owned by the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) for facilitating its research requirements, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


08. Purchase of soya beans for threeposha production (Document No – 38)
The annual soya beans requirement of the country is about 220,000 MT and the general production is merely 22,500 MT. The government is giving high priority to increase soya beans production. Accordingly about 4,000 hectares have been cultivated in Yala season 2016 in Anuradhapura District and Mahaweli zones and its expected harvest is about 8,000 MT. The proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to purchase about 5,000 MT of the harvest and provide for National Threeposha Production Programme with the view of protecting the domestic farmers and promoting supplementary food crops production, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


09. Incorporation of Institute of Food Science and Technology of Sri Lanka (Document No – 40)
The above institution is implemented with the objectives of providing modern technological knowhow on food production and processing, developing the quality and protection of foods to an international standard on a scientific basis, and improving Sri Lankan food industry to an international level. The proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to incorporate the Institute of Food Science and Technology of Sri Lanka by a parliamentary act to strengthen its process, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


10. Acquisition of a land to construct the proposed Economic Centre in Vavuniya (Document No – 43)
The budget 2016 has allocated Rs. 200 million on the above purpose. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to transfer a land of 2.5 acres in Madauwayithakulam village in Munrumurippu Grama Niladhari Division which was selected with the agreement of Co-chairpersons of Vavuniya District Coordinating Committee to the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


11. Improvement of the nutrition of children in early childhood development centres/ preschools (Document No – 49)
The programme to provide a glass of fresh milk to children in Early Childhood Development Centres/Preschools was commenced in 2006 with the view of improving the nutrition of children in low income families and strengthening the domestic dairy farmer. Reviews of intellectuals on this programme have shown that providing a glass of milk is insufficient for improving their nutrition. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, to implement a programme from 2017 to provide a balanced breakfast in divisions of Medical Officer of Health where more percentage of underweight children between the age of 2-5 years are reported, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
12. Prevention of difficulties faced by general public due to stray dogs (Document No – 50)


The Committee of Officials appointed in this regard has made its recommendations considering on controlling dog population, efficiently implementing vaccination programmes, establishment of dog detaining centres, development of coordination between local government agencies and other institutions. The proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to implement the action plan which these recommendations are included, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
13. National Anti-corruption summit scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka (Document No – 53)
The Cabinet has already approved to hold the above summit with the objectives of educating politicians, high rank officers in public and private sector, other relevant parties and general public to establish a society free of corruption, and creating a discourse on eradicating bribes and corruption in the society. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to hold the National Anti-corruption Summit in line with the international anti-corruption day on 09 December 2016 in Colombo with the participation of about 700 local and foreign representatives, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


14. Implementation of projects for providing benefits of digital technology to every citizen in the country (Document No – 54)
The Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) has identified numerous projects to be implemented within three years 2016-2018 in this regard. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to implement 40 projects under the programmes of 'National Digitalization' and 'Upgrading Nenasala' using allocations of year 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


15. Improvement of main road from WELIOYA, Gajabapura to Nedunkerni in Mullaitivu District (Document No – 57)
This is the main access road to Mullaitivu town for residents in Welioya area that runs 11.1 km. Improvement of this road will facilitate the lives of residents in Welioya area. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to improve the road at an estimated cost of Rs. 466.3 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


16. Completion of constructions of the cancer treatment centre in Kandy Teaching Hospital (Document No – 61)
Kandy Teaching Hospital, which is the second largest Tertiary Health Services Institution in Sri Lanka, treats about 4000 cancer patients annually. Construction of an 11 storied Cancer Treatment Centre has commenced in 2013 with the view of increasing the number of beds from 340 and to provide a better service to patients. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the contract for completion of its construction (phase III) to the Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau (CECB), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


17. Supply of medical equipments for epilepsy unit of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka (Document No – 62)
The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


18. Contract for proposed anchorage facilities at Peraliya Landing site, Galle district (Document No – 63)
The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to award the above contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


19. Restructuring of the Department of Labour and formulating a service minute for Labour Officers (Document No – 72)
The private sector provides a great contribution to the country's economic development and the Department of Labour plays a major role in maintaining the industrial peace that is required to obtain its efficient and qualitative services. A Committee of Officials has been appointed by the Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, and its proceedings are in the final stage. In addition a Committee of Officials comprised of officers from relevant ministries and departments has also been appointed to formulate a new service minute for Labour Officers for improving their service standards. Accordingly, the statement made by Hon. W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, that reports of the two Committees will be presented to the Cabinet soon, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.


20. Review of the Government's paddy purchasing programme (Document No – 73)
The above programme has been implemented by this government for three subsequent years as in 2014/15 Maha season, 2015 Yala season and 2015/16 Maha season. Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, has proposed to dispose the bulk of paddy purchased in 2015 before the commencement of harvesting in 2016 Yala season according to the due procurement procedure, to dispose paddy purchased in 2016 in October and November which a high price is reported for paddy stocks, and using its income to settle the due balances to be paid to the General Treasury and to settle the dues payable to government banks. Implementation of above proposals as per the recommendations made by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


21. Revision of taxes on cigarette and tobacco products (Document No – 74)
Surveys have revealed that 15% of persons between 18-69 years are engaged in smoking and about 30,000 die annually due to tobacco related diseases. It has been calculated that government spends about Rs. 72 billion annually to treat such patients. The World Health Organization has identified that taxation is a good measure to control the use of tobacco and cigarettes. According to the recommendations made by the Cabinet Committee appointed to consider the joint proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena and Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to revise taxes on tobacco and cigarettes, the Cabinet has decided to impose 15% VAT on cigarettes again, increase the current production tax from Rs. 5/- for any size cigarette, and to increase the cess on import of beedi leaves from Rs. 2,000/- to Rs. 3,000/- and to take other actions to minimize the tobacco use in the country.


22. Redevelopment of the Bogambara Prison Precinct (Document No – 76)
Since the Bogambara Prison in the Kandy City was shifted to Pallekelle the site it was located of about 5 hectares is currently vacant. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to assign the task of redevelopment of the said site as a centre for tourism attraction to an experienced and reputed international agency, protecting its historical value, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

President Maithripala Sirisena expressed confidence that the outcome of the Second Summit of the ‘Asia Co-operation Dialogue’ would bring about a common policy helping to enhance peace, security and prosperity among the countries in ACD Region.

“In the coming years, Asia will be the new financial hub, the focal point for the financial services industry, he said that ACD leaders endorse the ‘ACD vision 2030’ and the roadmap for ACD regional cooperation, with the objective of further building up ACD’s role as an active forum for dialogue.”

Speaking at the Second Summit of the ‘Asia Co-operation Dialogue’ in Bangkok today (October 10), President Sirisena said as an emerging economy Sri Lanka’s aim to achieve the High Income Developed Country Status.  A series of mega projects to promote economic growth has been put into action, he said.

The President stated that there is a large potential in the ACD Region in the field of tourism.  “This could play a crucial role in sustainable social, cultural and economic growth in our countries. Sri Lanka identified tourism as one of the key sectors driving the country’s economy,” he said.

“We consider that Development of Science and Technology are important features to promote economic development,” President Sirisena said.

Many leaders and high-level representatives from the member countries participate in the ACD Summit. They include the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, the Amir of Kuwait, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Prime Minister of Cambodia, President of Iran, Prime Minister of Laos and Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Strong regional cooperation is the key to overcome the challenges of poverty and equity said President Maithripala Sirisena today when he called on the Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha for bilateral discussions during his working visit to attend the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) held in Bangkok. Prime Minister Chan-o-cha and Spouse Paraporn Chan-o-cha welcomed the President and First Lady Jayanthi Sirisena at the Thai Government House.


Prime Minister Chan-o-cha thanked President Sirisena for attending the ACD as increased cooperation in the Asian region is vital for keeping its competitiveness and overcoming poverty. Thai Prime Minister also thanked President for his visit in November 2015 and presenting sacred Buddhist relics to Thailand.


President Sirisena highlighted the bilateral relation of Sri Lanka and Thailand is entrenched in the Theravada Buddhism that both countries inherited. President Sirisena appreciated the assistance Thailand provided during the natural disasters in Sri Lanka. Further President Sirisena welcomed more cooperation in developing agricultural technology in Sri Lanka.


Thai Prime Minister appreciated Sri Lankan President’s dedication to fight corruption and bring about reconciliation in Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Chan-o-cha further affirmed Thailand’s willingness to assist Sri Lanka in its effort to rebuild its economy. Thai Prime Minister expressed that connectivity between Thailand and Sri Lanka can further improve in terms of increased flights and that would help boost tourism in Sri Lanka.  


President Maithripala Sirisena thanked Thai Prime Minister for his hospitality and said that the importance of the ACD as a platform to increase Asian identity is vital.


President Sirisena signed the guest book at the Government house of Thailand. After the talks, President Sirisena and First Lady Jayanthi Sirisena attended the dinner hosted by Thai Prime Minister and Spouse.


Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Harsha De Silva, Sri Lanka's Ambassador Kshenuka Seneviratne were present during the talks.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today marked out India and China as the only countries that can drive economic growth across the globe, saying manufacturing companies have no other place to go. 

Critical of the western nations over selective treatment on framing economic policies, he said: "Asia will bail out the world (from the economic crisis), if it is allowed to frame the rules (policies)." 

"WEF in Delhi this year says the world is expecting India to translate potential into action... we are at threshold of another historic moment. If the pace of reforms fails to pick up, companies may look elsewhere. Where elsewhere? It has to be India or China. That's the hard truth. There is no other place to go today," Wickremesinghe said here. 

Speaking at the India Economic Forum, organised jointly by WEF and CII, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister singled out the West for favouritism. 

"The rules were written by the West on globalisation, and we have (been) only played by it. When people here went and deposited part of their funds and assets in western countries, no one complained. When their own people (western countries) started going to Switzerland, they started complaining...," he added. 

Asia will bail the world out... Otherwise, we create our own systems here (Asia). A very, very stable system." 

Speaking about Sri Lanka's economic engagement with the US, he said both will take the process further after the presidential elections in the North American nation. 

We have kept 500 acres of land for a gold course and Trump towers," Wickremesinghe said, jokingly referring to Republican US presidential nominee Donald Trump, who is locked in a tight battle with Democrat Hillary Clinton. 

With India, he said, Sri Lanka will ink the Economic and Technological Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) this year. 

Earlier at the summit, Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that in "not so encouraging" global economic environment, South and South-East Asia are going to be the "engine of growth" for the world. She was clear that India is committed and driven towards "equitable and inclusive" growth. 

Vedanta Resources Chairman Anil Agrawal put an emphasis on India developing small and medium enterprises to push growth. GE Hong Kong SAR Vice-Chairman John Rice, on his part, said India needs to lay more emphasis on exports and look at establishing an export credit agency. For A T Kearney Global Managing Partner Johan Aurik, the answer lay in jobs and technological development for India to grow. 

Harvard economist Gita Gopinath felt that India needs to ensure it can manage 8 per cent growth over a couple of decades. Paytm CEO V S Sharma was of the view that "the fourth industrial revolution" will depend on affordable and accessible Internet for all. According to Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, the country needs a radical restructuring of education and health sectors to sustain growth momentum. 

The government is to establish a special office to disseminate information on the Right to Information Act (RTIA) in Battaramulla, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake said yesterday. “This office will be headed by Piyatissa Ranasinghe (former Secretary to the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications) and we hope to set it up by the end of the month,”added the minister.

With the ministry on a tight rope to meet the deadline for implementation of the RTI, Karunathilake also said ; “We will also get a list of RTI officers appointed to each ministry by the end of this month. We will start training them from next month”.

The minister made these remarks at the Cabinet media briefing held at the Government Information Department and explained that there were many takeaways from the International Conference on RTI and Media Reforms held on 28-29 September, the government planned to implement. The Mass Media ministry has also promised to publish a discussion paper on the key findings of the Conference at the end of this week.

Another key point discussed at the seminar was the establishment of an Media Training Academy and minister Karunathilake said steps would be taken next to embark on this ambitious plan. 

President Maithripala Sirisena says he will committed to ensure the peace and reconciliation in the country while building peace, brotherhood and reconciliation among the communities as well as developing the field of sports which is a universal language for healing hearts.

He made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the 42nd National Games held at the Duraiappah Stadium in Jaffna, yesterday (02) with the aim of building peace, brotherhood and reconciliation in the country.

The President pointed out that the sports ground is a place where everyone can meet irrespective of their race, religion, caste or regional differences. He also said that the sports play an important role in developing discipline in persons and it has the power to transform an undisciplined society to a disciplined one.

President Sirisena further said that today there is a strong need for good moral values in our country as well as for the whole world and as a result of lack of these ethical values today the whole world is at war. The whole world should reach excellence in moral values to build lasting peace.  

The present Government is committed to provide maximum facilities for the upliftment of Sports with the aim of building a disciplined society. The President also said that he will provide assistance to develop sports skills of the children in every part of the country to reduce the development disparities across the country.

All the facilities including high quality stadiums, modern technology will be provided in this regard for each region, the President said.

Nearly 800 athletes representing 9 provinces in the country participated in this 42nd National Games and the President also presented awards for the athletes who showed outstanding performances.

Opposition Leader R Sampanthan, Chief Minister of the Northern Province C.V. Wigneswaran, Governor of the Northern Province, Reginald Cooray, Minister of Sports, Dayasiri Jayasekara, State Minister, Vijayakala Maheswaran, Local governments Sports Minister, athletics and many others participated in this event.

President Maithripala Sirisena vested with the students of the Jaffna University the newly established Reverse Osmosis Water Systems at the University premises, yesterday (02).

The President, who visited Jaffna to attend the closing ceremony of the 42nd National Games participated at this event at the university.

The Water Osmosis machines were provided following a request made by the university students. Two more such machines will be installed in the future.

The President also engaged in a cordial discussion with the students.

Mahinda Gammanpila a former Ministry Secretary was appointed as the Chairman of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission by President Maithripala Sirisena. Director of the Government Information Department Ranga Kalansooriya said the appointment was made 30th of september. According to him, S. G. Punchihewa, T. Selvakumaran, Salim Marzook and Kishali Pinto Jayawardhana had been appointed as the members of the Commission. 

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe met the Sri Lankan and New Zealand business community in New Zealand and invited them to make use of the investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, which is becoming the economic hub in the Indian Ocean.

Addressing the Sri Lanka – New Zealand Business Council on 1st October in Auckland, New Zealand, the Premier emphasized the importance of the new economic market and the new productions.


 
He believed that the commercial and industrial affairs between both countries could be further strengthened with the establishment of the proposed High Commissions. Prime Minister explained the way of receiving the new technology from New Zealand towards the agriculture, fisheries, animal food, and tourism sectors.

Ministers Sagala Rathnayake, Harin Fernanado, State Minister Sudarshani Fernandopulle, and Deputy Minister Harsha De Silva also participated.

A consultative meeting on the implementation of the RTI Act was held at the Ministry of Parliameraty Reforms and Mass Media sep.30th with participation of the visiting international RTI experts and some local civil society experts under the chair of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilleke.

The meeting extensively discussed the strategies on implementation of the ACT.

"Asidisi" Cricket Champions Organized for the sixth year by the Ministy of Parlimentary Reforms and Mass Media will be held on 30th Septemember, 01st and 02nd October 2016 at Thurstan Grounds, Colombo.

This Cricket toutnament is annually organized animed at Promoting friendly and Cordial relations among media institutions. Cheif guests of the inaugaral event are Parlymentary reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake , Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranavithana and secratary of the Ministry Mr.Nimal Bopage.

Right to Information should commence in every sector, as Sri Lanka is a country where the democracy, freedom, and human rights are natured and ensured, said President Maithripala Sirisena.


President made these remarks addressing the International Conference on ‘Right to Information’ (RTI) held today in Colombo parallel to the International RTI Day.

The event was organized by the Department of Government Information in collaboration with the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media.


According to the President, the current government was able to fulfill a long awaited requirement, as well as his election pledge as the Common Opposition Candidate at the Presidential Election in 2015, which the previous governments neglected and were unable to implement.


He pointed out that the unfair activities and the disturbance against the future journey of the country due to the misuse and the mismanagement of public money will also disappear with the implementation of RTI. President also focused his attention on registering of NGOs.


The key note address of the conference was delivered by former Chief Justice of Delhi and Madras High Courts and the former Chairman of Indian Law Commission Ajit Prakash Shah.


The conference is held on 28th and 29th September.

Sri Lanka’s first ever International Conference on ‘Right to Information’ will be held on 28th and 29th September in Colombo with the participation of nearly 300 foreign and local participants.


The International Conference is organized parallel to the International Right to Information Day, by the Department of Government Information in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media.


The opening ceremony will be held on 28th September at Hilton Colombo Residence under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena. High profile politicians, academics, and experts including Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake, Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranawithana, and the Director General of Government Information Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya.


Deputy Minster Paranawithana addressing media this evening at the Department of Government Information stated that the conference would focus its attention on the right to information, media regulation, and the current situation of mass media.

According to Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya, the implementation of the RTI Act should start from the grass root level and it is important to share the experience with the neighbor states such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that the world leaders have commended Sri Lanka on the achievements of the last 18 months and that is a great incentive, encouragement and a blessing for Sri Lanka. He said this while briefing media on his discussions with several Heads of State and other leaders at the Loews Regency Hotel in New York.


He said that during the last UNGA too, he met these leaders, but they were more curious about the new government’s policies then. “Now they express open appreciation about our achievements,” he said. “I assured them that we, as a government, are determined to take the country towards progress and make Sri Lanka a truly democratic and prosperous nation,” he said.


The current respectful position of Sri Lanka is something the entire nation, irrespective of party politics could be proud of, Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said, and added that the credit for this achievement goes to President Sirisena. Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe said that he had attended the UN sessions since 2002, and today he could see a remarkably favorable position towards Sri Lanka among the international community.


Minister Gayantha Karunathilake said that the world leaders have a tremendous respect for Sri Lanka because our President tells the world, whatever he tells the people at home, whereas previous leaders used to say something at home and a different thing when they are out of the country

I am extremely happy to take part in this 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. I wish to bring to the notice of Your Excellencies the current situation in my country. I have been in power for the last 15 months. There are many problems in my country.

We have, in recent months, taken many important steps for socio-economic transformation. Before I came to power, people in my country were living in fear and I ended that period and made the people free of fear, established rule of law and restored democratic rights.

My intention is to make peole of Sri Lanka one of the happiest among the world communities by establishing a knowledge-based society. I am determined to alleviate poverty in my country. For that purpose I have declared 2017 as the Year of Alleviation of Poverty.

In order to improve the living standards of our people, we have to provide better facilities for economic development. I have given the topmost priority to take my country forward by working in cooperation with the United Nations and its agencies and other institutions. We have to make necessary changes to achieve sustainable development. The priority areas of the government include establishment of a knowledge-based economy with new initiatives and creation of a green economy.

As an Island-Nation, Sri Lanka wishes to make maximum utility of sea resources, fisheries and marine resources. All these require new technology and we seek the support of the international community for these purposes. Sri Lanka is a country with free education and free health services and the country has all the basic infrastructure requirements for speedy development.

The world today is full of hate, violence and fear. We must free our people from such hatred and fear and establish a society with moral values. The government is totally committed to reconciliation process to establish lasting peace. That would definitely prevent occurance of another war in our country. Terrorism lasting three decades has ended and now we have undertaken the process of reconciliation among the different communities. We require the support of the international community to successfully face these challenges.

Sri Lanka is a Buddhist country, where Theravada Buddhism is practiced. There are solutions in Buddhist teachings to most of the problems faced by the people in this world. Similarly, those who follow other religions like Hinduism, Islam and Christianity too can find answers to these problems by these great religious philosophies.

I am totally committed to eradicate drugs. As the President of Brazil said this morning, illicit drugs have become the most serious challenge faced by our societies today. Unless we take early steps to stop the menace of drugs we will be faced with a catastrophe of unprecedented magnitude. The harm caused to the people, especially the young students by illicit drugs is very serious. We have to eradicate drugs and ensure that illicit drugs would not reach our countries.

We have taken effective steps to strengthen democracy, rule of law and good governance in our country. We want to create a better country for our people. To achieve these, I need the assistance of the international community.

Different countries have their own unique authentic thinking. We too have such authentic thinkings and visions. I want to create a country, in which our people can live as better humans and I need your support for this endeavour.

I wish to take this opportunity to express appreciation about the services rendered by the outgoing UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. He provided and excellent service to the entire world.

I would like to metion that my desire is to arm the new generation with knowledge and modern technology. I will do my duties and fulfill my responsibilities towards my people and I seek your assistance and blessings of you all for this task.

Thank you

May the Triple Gem bless you!

The 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) commenced today (Sep. 20) at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Leaders and representatives from 193 member countries in the world, including Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena attended the summit, which inaugurated under the patronage of UN Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon.

Inaugurating the session for 2016, Secretary-General delivered the keynote address. The first half hour of the summit was allocated to celebrate the completion of one year since sustainable development goals were introduced.

The Summit is held from September 20 to 26 and President Sirisena will address the 71st Session of the UNGA on September 21st.

This is the second time that President Maithripala Sirisena will address the United Nations General Assembly after assumption of duties as the President. Experts point out that the statement by the President will be significant as a leader who committed himself to build peace and reconciliation, while ensuring democracy, freedom and human rights within the country.

The 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly is important due to its focus on Refugees and Migrants.

Similarly, U.S. President Barack Obama addresses the United Nations General Assembly for the last time as the U.S. president and UN Secretary-General Ban-Ki Moon who held this position for the last 10 years will deliver his last speech as the UN Secretary-General.

President Sirisena will hold bilateral talks with several leaders in the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.


President Maithripala Sirisena arrived at the John F Kennedy Airport in New York last evening (September 18) amidst tight security as the city suffered a major security threat with an explosive devise going off on the previous day injuring 29 persons.

The President was received at the Loews Regency Hotel by senior Minister of Foreign Affairs Mangala Samaraweera, Deputy Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, Ajith P Perera Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to UN, Dr Rohan Perera, Ambassador in Washington, Prasad Kariyawasam and the officials.

Dr Rohan Perera, speaking to media few minutes before the President’s arrival said that the visit of President Sirisena is of extreme importance to Sri Lanka as the 71st Session of the UNGA is dedicated to review the progress of the programme adopted on implementation of the Millennium Development Goals at the last year’s Summit. The President is also to handover the Sri Lanka’s Notice of Ratification of the Paris Declaration on Global warming adopted at the April 2016 environmental summit held in Paris. Once the Notices of ratification are submitted by a majority of the UN member nations, it will be formally announced at the current 71st Session of the UNGA, Dr Perera said.

The President is scheduled to address the UN General assembly in the afternoon of September 21. He is also scheduled to speak at the High-Level Event on Open Government Partnership with several leading nations to be held at the UN Headquarters on September 20.

He will also meet several leaders for discussions on bilateral relations and international issues. Those who will meet President Sirisena include Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, US Secretary of State John Kerry, Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, M J Akbar, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, World Economic Forum Chairman Prof Klaus Schwab and Millennium Challenge Corporation President Dana J Hyde.

President Sirisena will also interact with global leaders at the reception host by US President Barak Obama and at the reception and luncheon host by UNSG Ban ki-moon.

The UNO and surrounding areas are under a heavy security blanket after the explosion that took place within hours of the arrival of advance delegations. President Obama and several others will arrive in New York today.

The city of New York is safe and all the security arrangements are in place for the UNGA, the New York Governor declared this afternoon.

Ministers Mangala Samaraweera, Gayantha Karunathilaka, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Arjuna Ranathunga and Faizer Mustafae Deputy Minister Ajith P Perera, Rohan Perera Ambassador in Washington, Prasad Kariyawasam and the Member of Parliament Nalaka Kolonne were among the delegation of the President.

President Maithripala Sirisena left the country today (Sep. 18) to attend the 71st United Nations General Assembly to be held at the UN Headquarters in New York.He left the country at 10.45 a.m. by Emirates 651 passenger flight.The General Assembly will be held from tomorrow (Sep. 19) to Sep. 26. The President will address the General Assembly on Wednesday (Sep. 21).This is the second time that President Sirisena is addressing the UN General Assembly. This also will be the last assembly that the current UN General Secretary Ban Ki-moon will participate.Ministers Mangala Samaraweera, Gayantha Karunathilaka, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Arjuna Ranathunga and Faizer Mustafa and Member of Parliament Nalaka Kolonne were among the delegation of the President.

 

Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Ministry in association with the Department of Government Information will hold an international Conference in Colombo under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena to commemorate the International Right to Information Day.

According to the Minister of Parlimentary Reforms and Mass Media GayanthaKarunatilleke, by now all arrangements have been made to hold this conference at the Jaic Hilton Hotel on September 28 and 29 under the theme “Right to Information and Media Reforms”. About 20 Regional and International foreign delegates from the academia will participate at the event.

The Conference will have two main objectives. First, is the exchange of regional and international experience and technical knowledge on the implementation of the Right to Information Act. This would enable Sri Lanka to implement the Right to Information Act more efficiently and effectively by utilizing the facts and opportunities provided by the Conference. It would be very useful for Sri Lanka to share the experience of South Asian countries such as India, Maldives and Pakistan in overcoming challenges in implementing the Right to Information Act.

The Second objective of the Conference is to organize an effective discussion on necessary mass media reforms for the establishment of a reliable political culture based on democracy and good governance. It is expected to exchange capacities and knowledge of each participating country in expanding media usage through aspects such as media ethics, regulation methods training as well as the use of smart phones. This will provide an opportunity for Sri Lanka to receive knowledge and practical experience of media veterans from South Asia ,Canada and Europe.

Since a public discussion on an Independent Media Commission and a Regulatory Authority is on way the Conference will be a useful source of guidance in that regard.

Local academics in relevant fields as well as media organizations, civil society organizations have been invited for the Conference. The public also has a limited opportunity to participate. Those interested could apply through the websites www.news.lk or www.dgi.gov.lk

01. Establishing accelerated economic transformation in Sri Lanka – Setting up a central Programme management Unit (Document No – 07)

It is important to establish a separate unit to supervise and take corrective measures on development activities for achieving the objectives of gain an accelerated economic development and to convert the country's economy into a sustainable socio-economic market. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to obtain the assistance of a the Mackenzie Institute of USA who have experience in setting up such units in rapidly transforming economies such as in Malaysia for setting up a Central Programme Management Unit in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


02. Increasing the compensation payment for damages caused by wild elephants (Document No – 08)

The above compensation was last amended in 2004. Accordingly, the total compensation payment is around Rs. 25-35 million. It has been proposed to increase these compensation as Rs. 200,000 for a death caused by wild elephant attack and Rs. 200,000 for a permanent disabilities (without considering the age limit as at present), Rs. 75,000 for physical injuries, and Rs. 100,000 for house and property damages, and to assign the payment to a committee chaired by the District Secretary to minimize delays in payment and to establish a Committee of Appeal chaired by the Director General of Wildlife to consider appeals forwarded by those who are not satisfied with the decisions of the above committee. The above proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. National Occupational safety Week (Document No – 11)

The National Occupational Safety Week which is organized annually by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health with the view contributing in increasing national production through minimizing all kinds of occupational accidents is to be held from 07th to 14th October 2016. This time an international conference and a national conference and a National Occupational Safety and Health – Awards of Excellence for admiring institutes that are committed to make a safer environment for employees will be held in line with the National Occupational Safety Week. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, to implement this programme with the association of public and private institutions, considering it as a national programme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Amendment of the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Act No. 13 of 2005 (Document No – 12)

The National Council for Disaster Management and the Disaster Management Centre was established in 2005 under the provisions of the above act and a separate ministry for disaster management was established in 2010. The tendency of disasters has increased in recent times. Considering the difficulties faced by the Disaster Management Centre and the Ministry of Disaster Management in discharging responsibilities and activities assigned by the act, the proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to amend the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Act for maintaining the above tasks with better coordination and cooperation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Introduction of a contributory pension scheme for artistes (Document No – 19)

Funds have been allocated by the Budget 2016 to introduce a contributory pension scheme for artistes with the view of affirming their social recognition and social security. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to establish a contributory pension scheme for selected applicants selected by the Department of Cultural Affairs according to a marking scheme based on their age and to implement it through the Social Security Board, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Construction of a new building for National Design Centre (Document No – 20)

The National Design Centre which is implemented for the improvement of indigenous craftsmen is situated in a building older than 40 years. As the building is in deteriorated status it could not be modified to meet present day needs. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to remove the old building and to build a new one consisting of workshops, design planning units, library, handicrafts showroom, and administration branch at an estimated cost of Rs. 80 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Acquisition of required lands for Angunakolapelessa town development activities (Document No – 22)

The Urban Development Authority (UDA) has planned to develop Angunakolapelessa town which connects cities in Hambantota District with a regular plan. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to acquire a land of 9 acres 2 roods and 10 perches belonging to the Mahaweli Development Authority to the UDA for the constructions of tourist bungalows, banks, commercial complex, buildings for public institutions, car park, and for town centre and bus stand development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Town centre re-development project at Mihintale (Document No – 23)

The Urban Development Authority (UDA) has prepared a plan to develop Mihintale town to facilitate about 8000 people who come to the town for their daily needs and seasonal pilgrims and visitors. Under this plan it is proposed to build commercial buildings and public market, storm water drainage, children's parks, common areas with parking facilities, and street furniture. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to implement the above project at an estimated cost of Rs. 200 million within the period of 2016-2019, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the fields of broadcasting, television and cinema, between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh (Document No – 28)

The proposal made by Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media, to sign a MoU between the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and Ministry of Information of the People's Republic of Bangladesh with the view of exchanging current news and television programmes and successful experiences and technology, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Acquiring Soranawatta land in Horana to the Department of Prisons in order to relocate Welikada Prison and its supportive units (Document No – 31)

The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to transfer the Soranawatta Land in Horana of 28 acres in extent owned by the UDA to the Department of Prisons to relocate the Welikada Prison, Prison Hospital, Women's Ward, and Prison Quarters, and to transfer the land of 38.5 acres where the Welikada Prison is currently located to the UDA for urban development activities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Projects of the Ministry of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure for the improvement of the information and communication technology literacy (Document No – 34)

Budget 2016 has allocated funds of Rs. 250 million and Rs. 42 million respectively to the projects of School Computer Laboratory Project implemented with the view of improving ICT related infrastructure and literacy in island wide schools and the District IT Resources Centres Project implemented with the view of maintaining a coordination with the district administration on IT resources management issues. The proposal made by Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, to implement above projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Construction of a new three storied building for the Panadura Divisional Secretariat (Document No – 41)

The Panadura District Secretary Division in Kaluthara District is comprised of 72 Grama Niladhari Divisions and a population of 205,969. Public and staff experience various difficulties due to the lack of space in the building where the office is being located. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a new building for the Panadura Divisional Secretariat at an estimated cost of Rs. 172.8 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Amendments to the Value added tax (Document No – 44)

As per the budget proposals 2016, the special cabinet decision made on 04-03-2016 and as per the recommendation made by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management on 15-06-2016 it was decided to amend provisions on Value Added Tax (VAT) in the Value Added Tax Act No. 14 of 2002. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to publish in the gazette and then presented in the parliament the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill including following amendments instead of the previously presented bill, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

(i). Fixing VAT rate at 15%.
(ii). Reduction of the threshold of registration for VAT from Rs. 3.75 million per quarter or Rs. 15 million per annum to Rs. 3 million per quarter or Rs. 12 million per annum.
(iii). Imposition of VAT on

  • Wholesale and retail trade which threshold is greater than Rs. 50 million per annum (Rs. 12.5 million per quarter)
  • Private health services other than diagnostic tests, dialysis, and OPD services excluding medical consultation.
  • Telecommunication Services
  • Tobacco Products
  • Powdered milk which contains added sugar or other sweetening matter.
  • Air ticketing fee of air passengers moving from an airport in Sri Lanka to an airport outside Sri Lanka.

(iv). Restriction of VAT exemption applicable on the supply, lease, or rent of residential accommodation to projects of which the investment cost is not exceeding USD 05 Mn. However, such supplies made by Strategic Development Projects approved prior to 01.11.2015 and other projects where the sales agreement are entered into or project completed before 01.10.2016 will continued to be exempted from VAT.

(v). Increase of the price rate of garments supplied to the local market by BOI Companies to Rs. 75/- per piece.

14. Organizing the 69th Independence Day falling on 04th February 2017 (Document No – 45)
The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to appoint a committee presided by the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to organize and direct the 69th Independence day falling on 04th February 2017, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


15. Holding the cremation ceremony of Late Most Ven. Nauyane Ariyadhamma Thero, Sub-Chief incumbent of the Ramanya Nikaya (Document No – 46)

The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, on holding the cremation of the Late Most Ven. Nauyane Ariyadhamma Thero, Sub-Chief incumbent of the Ramanya Nikaya who has rendered an enormous service to the nation, religion and the religious order, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Extending the service period of experienced clinical consultants up to 63 years of age (Document No – 47-10)

1,164 posts of specialist doctors in hospitals around the island are being vacated. Filling these vacancies under the current method takes a long period. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to extend the age of compulsory retirement of experienced specialist medical officers in curative sector up to 63 years considering their ability to serve further with their experience, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Preliminary activities are in progress for the State Media Awards – 2015 organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media in evaluating unique skills, talents and competencies of journalists in realization of the ultimate goal of creating a socially responsible media culture.  

Considering the criticisms leveled against the existing Award Ceremonies in Sri Lanka, a special committee comprising of representatives of state and private media institutions to determine the classification of awards and to formulate awarding criteria transparently in keeping with international standards.  The Award Ceremony will proceed on recommendations of the aforesaid committee.

Creations published  / broadcast in the fields of newspapers, radio and television during year 2015 will be evaluated for these awards. All media institutions operated in Sri Lanka are invited to submit creations for this State Media Awards. 

01.    Control of import and use of asbestos harmful to the environment in Sri Lanka (Document No – 12)

Asbestos is used for many products including roofing sheets, floor tiles, cement pipes, brake pads of vehicles, papers, and ropes. Since 1987 importation of blue asbestos (Crocidolite) has been prohibited as it was identified as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), and at present all kinds of asbestos including white asbestos (Chrysotile) have been identified as carcinogens. About 80% of asbestos imported to Sri Lanka are used for roofing sheet production. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to control the use and import of asbestos from 01-01-2018 by adopting more beneficial substitutes and to prepare a operational programme to prohibit the asbestos related productions by 01-01-2024 with the view of improving the health of public, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02.    Proper management of the use of polythene to minimize environmental issues caused by them (Document No – 13)

There is an increased use of plastic and polythene related products in the society and improper use, disposal and burning of these products have caused many social, environmental, health and economic issues. Daily per capita use of polythene is about 0.5 kg and about five hundred thousand (500,000) tons of polythene materials are imported to Sri Lanka annually. Some countries in the world have completely prohibited the use of polythene and some have allowed to use selected plastic products. Considering the need of controlling environmental impacts caused by polythene and the fact that a numerous employees are engaged in plastic and polythene related industries, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to appoint a Committee of Experts to prepare a national policy and an action plan on the use of polythene, plastic and bio-degradable plastic in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03.    Declaration of National Marine resources conservation week (Document No – 14)

Disposal of non-degradable pollutants directly or through canals to the ocean has badly impacted on the marine ecosystem as well as fisheries and tourism industries. Hence, it is required to prepare a regular programme with public participation to protect these ecosystems and the sustainability of their related industries. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to declare the third Saturday to fourth Saturday of September of each year as the National Marine Resources Conservation Week simultaneous to the International Coastal Cleanup Day falling on the 03rd Saturday of September each year, and to implement coast cleanup and conservation activities within 17 September 2016 to 23rd September with the participation of general public, school children and government and non government organizations, and to hold its national celebrations on 17th September 2016 at Mattakkuliya coastline in Colombo, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04.    Enforcement and regulation of the international conventions and related activities pertaining to the wildlife conservation (Document No – 19)

Sri Lanka has signed several international conventions on wildlife conservation but the necessary legal provisions have not been enacted to regularize the activities related to those conventions. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to amend the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance to enable the making of regulations required to implement domestically the international conventions signed by Sri Lanka including Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05.    Relocation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Document No – 21)

The Republic Building, which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently situated was built in the British colonial era and has been identified as heritage that should be conserved. Accordingly it is essential to relocate the Ministry and the proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to allocate the land of about two (02) acres in Jawatta Road, Colombo, which has been identified to constrict a new building for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of a political consultation mechanism between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Document No – 22)

The proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the above MoU between his official visit to Slovenia from 04th to 08th September 2016 for promotion, strengthening and expanding the political, economic, consular, technological and scientific, and cultural cooperation between the two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07.    "Awakening Polonnaruwa" District Development Programme – implementation of priority water supply projects (Document No – 25)

The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to implement nine (09) water supply projects under the above programme to provide safe drinking water for residents and to allocate funds of Rs. 6,464.36 million for year 2017 and 2018 in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08.    Implementation of new inland water transport system through private public partnership (Document No – 31)

It has been identified that an economy and speedy transport system could be introduced through canals and reservoirs where the bus and railway transportation has not been deployed sufficiently in the situation where the traffic congestion is gradually increasing. Accordingly, an efficient transportation module could be introduce to connect Colombo East-West and North-South by canals and the sea and Wellawatta – Battaramulla (through canals), Fort-Union Place (across Beira Lake), and Mattakkuliya – Hanwella (through Kelani river) have been identified by the Megapolis Transport Committee as three potential roots. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to conduct a feasibility study on the above purpose identifying a suitable private investor to establish the water transport system under the public-private partnership, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09.    Project for construction of Thambalagamuwa Police Station (Document No – 45)

Thambalagamuwa Police Station which was established in 2004 is currently situated in 02 buildings obtained for lease basis with minimum facilities and about 155 Police Officers are serving in the Police Station. It was earlier operated as a Police Post to ensure the protection of people in Muthur, Seruwawila and Trincomalee in Eastern Province. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to construct a new building at an estimated cost of Rs. 90.4 million in a land owned by the Police Department, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10.    Completion of the construction of Polpithigama Police Station (Document No – 46)

The construction of Polpithigama Police Station in Nikaweratiya Police Division which about 130 Police Officers are serving, has commenced in 2007 but due to various reasons the construction work has been suspended. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to complete the above construction by including requirements that were identified later at an estimated cost of Rs. 49.7 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11.    Maduru oya Right bank Development Project (Document No – 48)

Maduru Oya is one of the major reservoirs constructed under the accelerated Mahaweli Development Programme in 1982. It was expected to develop agricultural lands of 39,000 hectares in Mahaweli 'B' zone in Polonnaruwa and Batticaloa Districts. Its left bank development has been finalized but due to lack of financial allocations the right bank development has not commenced yet. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement the above project within 2017-2020 with the view of developing drinking water supply, irrigation, and infrastructure for the socio-economic development in Polonnaruwa and Batticaloa Districts which was affected by the war for decades, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12.    Construction of section 4 of the Central Expressway from Kurunegala to Dambulla (60 km) (Document No – 54)

The Cabinet has already approved rehabilitation of existing 150 km of roads and constructing new 100 km roads under the Awakening Rajarata development programme. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to implement the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13.    Financial Assistance from Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the proposed Capital Market Development Programme (Document No – 55)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to conduct loan negotiations with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to obtain a loan of US$ 250 million for the development of an efficient, fixed and transparent Capital Market with a strong legal and regulatory framework, with the view of collecting financial resources required for the economic development productively through Sri Lankan Capital Market, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

World Health Organization (WHO) presented Sri Lanka the Certificate of Malaria eliminated country yesterday (6th Sept.)

Director General, WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan presented the certificate to the Minister of Health, Nutrition, and Indigenous Medicine Rajitha Senarathne, in Colombo at the WHO – SEARO annual session.

President Maithripala Sirisena received the Award for Excellence in Public Health – 2016.

This annual Award has been established to recognise outstanding leadership and exceptional achievements in public health by individuals.WHO South East Asia regional Excellence in Public Health.

Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director of WHO mentioned this prestigious award is presented to President Maithripala Sirisena for his exceptional contributions strengthening the Health services in Sri Lanka specially in Tobacco control, drugs regulation, health of migrants and control of kidney disease. This Award of Excellence was presented at a function held at the President’s House in Colombo yesterday.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon told Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunatilleke that he leaves Sri Lanka with a great sense of happiness when the latter met the UN Chief to hand over the pictorial album of his three day visit to Sri Lanka.

“I am extremely happy about the improvement of this country,” Ban said.

The pictorial album prepared by the Department of Government Information was handed over to the UN Chief at the Galle Face Hotel.

The minister briefed Ban on the RTI process in Sri Lanka and he expressed satisfaction when the minister explained about the efforts of his ministry to implement the laws within the stipulated time frame.

He also briefed the UN Chief on the proposed media reforms in Sri Lanka that includes establishing an independent media commission and a broad regulatory mechanism for broadcast sector. Government Information Director General Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya also present.

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon yesterday expressed appreciation over the progress made by Sri Lanka in different spheres over the last one and half years.

He also assured continuous assistance and support from the United Nations Organisation for the efforts of the government.
Ban made these comments during talks with President Maithripala Sirisena at the President’s House in Colombo yesterday.

The two leaders discussed about the ongoing development programmes, the progress of the programmes being implemented to strengthen reconciliation and the process of constitutional reforms. The President briefed the visiting UN Secretary General about the steps taken by the government with regard to constitutional reforms, devolution and structural reforms.
He explained the steps taken by the government for resettlement and rehabilitation, release of land to the original owners and livelihood development.
President Maithreepala Sirisena said that he is looking forward to attend the UN General assembly later this month to use the international forum for furthering Sri Lanka’s global interaction.

The UN Secretary General said that during his visit to Galle today he could witness the progress achieved in various fields.
He added that he held a dialogue with the people, especially the youth and expressed his satisfaction of the free and friendly atmosphere.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera, Presidential Advisor Austin Fernando, Foreign Secretary Esala Weerakoon and Sri Lankan Permanent Representative to UN, Dr Rohan Perera also participated in the discussion. The President hosted a dinner in honour of the UN Secreatry General. The United Nations Secretary General met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at Temple Trees on Wednesday.

Ban is scheduled to meet several ministers and other Parliamentarians during his three day visit to Sri Lanka.

Indian State Minister for Foreign Affairs Sri M.J. Akbar has said that the participation of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe to deliver the keynote address of the Indian Ocean Conference is a great strength. He made this reference during a discussion held with the Prime Minister.

Premier Wickremasinghe who left for Singapore to deliver the keynote address at the Indian Ocean Conference was accorded to a very warm welcome on arrival by Director of the India Foundation Ram Madhav.
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe met Indian State Minister for Foreign Affairs M.J. Akbar for discussions. The Indian Minister said that the keynote address made by the Sri Lankan Prime Minister was a beacon to the entire conference.
It is India Foundation that is organizing the conference this year.
Top think tanks from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Singapore – Bangladesh Institute of International & Strategic Studies, Institute of Policy Studies and S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies respectively – will be partners for the meet.
The conference is being attended by 48 special speakers from 22 countries and state diplomats.
India’s External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed the conference via satellite technology. In her address she said that dire attention should be focused on security, economic, cultural and environmental issues that impact the Indian Ocean Zone.
Several sessions related to trade, investment and cultural spheres will be held tomorrow. State Leaders, politicians and scholars not only from the Indian Ocean Zone but also representing Western countries will be among the large gathering that would be participating.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at Temple Trees last night, soon after their arrival in the island. Mrs Ban Soon-taek and Mrs Maithri Wickremesinghe were also present.

01. Obtaining the membership in International Sustainable Tourism and Eliminating Poverty Organization (ST-EP) (Document No – 06)


ST-EP is proposed to be established under the patronage of United Nations World Tourism Organization with the view of facilitating knowledge management and project development for economic improvement through tourism promotion, implementation of researches and projects for achieving sustainable tourism development through elimination of poverty and contributing in protecting the environment and culture through public-private partnership. The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to obtain the membership in the said organization, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Registration of motorcycles used without registration (Document No – 07)

There are numerous motorcycles which are not registered in the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT). Such motorcycles are very useful in rural areas where ample public transportation is absent and they contribute much for the rural agricultural economy and self-employment. A large income for the government is lost in this regard. It has been recognized that it is suitable to provide an opportunity to register such bicycles through imposing a surcharge for establishing the law through preventing frauds, corruption and theft in the country. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to grant registration for such motorcycles as a concession after checking the documents, to implement this regarding motorcycles that conforms with the provisions of the Motor Traffic Act and not to prejudice legal importers of motorcycles, and to grant this concession for only four (04) months, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Lease out a land of 10 acres in Muthurajawela for a project of generating energy through solid waste (Document No – 15)

The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to lease out the above mentioned land owned by the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation and Development Corporation for 30 years to a private company for implementing a project for generating electricity through solid waste as a solution to the waste disposal issue, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Development of farms owned by the National Livestock and Development Board (NLDB) under the public-private participation programme (Document No – 18)

There are 31 crops and animal farms around the island owned by the NLDB and it also contributes in providing necessary assistance for small farm owners, and in national dairy production, meat production and egg production. Four large scale farms in Central and Southern Provinces have been developed with a large investment but farms with the same potential in other areas could not been developed with the difficulty of providing funds. Therefore the government pays its attention in developing them with public-private partnership. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to amend the act No. 11 of 1972, State Agricultural Corporations Act including necessary legal provisions for the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Prevention of coastal erosion in Oluwil and Nindavur areas in Ampara District (Document No – 21)

A Committee of Officials has already been appointed according to a proposal made by Minister of City Planning and Water Supply Rauff Hakeem to study the coastal erosion in about an area of 550 m on Northern area of the Oluwil harbour in Ampara District and to make recommendations on long term solutions and providing reliefs to affected people. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority has commenced conservation of about 150 m and the rest 400m should be commenced immediately. As it takes a long period of time to implement long-term measures the proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, Minister of Ports and Shipping, to implement short term measures such as pileup sand heap along the beach and placing rock barriers with the cooperation of the Coast Conservation and Coastal Resources Management Department, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Task Force on Legal and Judicial Causes of Prison Overcrowding (Document No – 23)

The joint proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice and Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to appoint a Task Force on the above purpose with the Co-Chairpersonship of Secretary to the Ministry of Justice and Secretary to the Ministry of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs and to obtain proposals on necessary amendments to be done to existing laws and procedures, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Implementation of three water supply schemes for community affected from water ingress to the main tunnel of Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project (Document No – 26)

The approval of the Cabinet of Ministers has already been granted to implement the above schemes for benefitting the affected communities in Weheragalatenna, Makulella, and Kurundugolla areas. Accordingly its construction has been commenced and it has revealed that the number of beneficiary families will increase from 1417 to 2400. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement these projects with immediate effect by amending the cost of these 03 projects as Rs. 317.24 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Implementation of short term priority water supply improvements in Three BOI Zones Biyagama, Wathupitiwala and Koggala and surroundings in Ranpokunugama and Kirindiwela areas of Gampaha District and Habaraduwa area of Galle District (Document No – 27)

The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to implement the improvements to existing water supply schemes for providing sufficient water supply for people in above areas at a cost of Rs. 1,531.9 million, considering them as priority projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Construction of Jaffna Pannai Prison Complex – Phase II (Document No – 30)

The above project is to be implemented to accommodate 1000 detainees. The first phase of the project has been completed and it can accommodate 130 detainees. The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to commence its second phase at an estimated cost of Rs. 623.32 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Standardizing the addressing of the Sri Lanka Police Department (Document No – 33)

The Police of Sri Lanka has been addressed in various terms in different periods. It has been addressed by the Police Ordinance No. 16 of 1865 and by directions of the Police Department as the 'Sri Lanka Police Force' and after 1945 as the 'Sri Lanka Police Department' and since 1972 it has been addressed as the 'Sri Lanka Police Service'. The Police Department celebrates its 150th anniversary this year and it has been considered to adopt a standard name for the police. Considering the above fact the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to use 'Sri Lanka Police' as its standard name, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Establishing Japan – Sri Lanka joint Comprehensive Partnership Secretariat in Colombo and Tokyo (Document No – 34)

During the official visit if Hon. Prime Minister in October 2015, the governments of Sri Lanka and Japan has agreed to declare the cooperation covering the areas of advanced agriculture, science and technology for industries, advanced infrastructure and regional development, education and human resources development, and civil security and safety. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to establish the Japan – Sri Lanka Joint Comprehensive Partnership Secretariat in Colombo and Tokyo for facilitating the above purposes, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Ratification of Paris Agreement by Sri Lanka (Document No – 35)

The Paris Agreement on Climate Change was signed by 178 countries including Sri Lanka at the UN headquarters on 02 April 2016. It expects to minimize the impact and risk of climate change though maintaining the general global warming less than 2 Celsius Degrees and by not exceeding 1.5 Celsius Degrees as much as possible. Sri Lanka has been identified by the agreement as an island state that face the impacts of climate changes such as prolong droughts, flash floods, rise in the sea level, landslides, and inundation of lowlands. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to ratify the Paris Agreement, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Development Policy Loan (Private Sector, Governance Improvement and Fiscal Consolidation (Document No – 36)

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has agreed to provide funds for the development process of the government considering the sectors of achieving the economic stability of Sri Lanka through financial stability of Sri Lanka, improvement of public resources management and facilitating public-private competition. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to sign exchange notes with the government of Japan to obtain development policy loan of Japanese Yen 10,000 (approximately Rs. 14,453 million) and to enter into a loan agreement with JICA on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Declaration of '2017- the Year of Alleviating Poverty' (Document No – 38)

The government has paid its attention on alleviating poverty according to the pledge given in Presidential Election 2015 and according to the UN sustainable development goals. Economic development should not aim only the economic development but should consider social security, minimizing income differences, marginalized communities due to various reasons, development diversities in provincial and district levels. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to declare the year 2017 as the 'Year of Alleviating Poverty' by recognizing the need of a macro programme and giving priority to a collective approach and to supervise the programme by a Committee comprised of relevant ministers and partners and headed by the President and the Prime Minister, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

At the invitation of the Government, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, accompanied by Mrs Ban Soon-taek, will visit Sri Lanka from 31 August to 2 September 2016.

The Secretary-General is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in the evening of 31 August from Myanmar, and leave Sri Lanka late night on 2 September for China to participate in the G20 Summit.

In Colombo, on 31 August, the Secretary-General will meet Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. He will call on President Maithripala Sirisena on 1 September.

The Secretary-General will travel to Galle on 1 September, where he will participate in an event involving youth under the theme ‘Reconciliation and Coexistence: Role of Youth’.

On 2 September, the Secretary-General will travel to Jaffna, where he will meet the Governor of the Northern Province Reginald Cooray, Leader of the Opposition R. Sampanthan and members of the TNA, and visit a resettlement site.

During the visit, the Secretary-General will also meet with several Cabinet Ministers including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mangala Samaraweera; the Speaker of the Parliament Karu Jayasuriya and Political Party Leaders; and civil society representatives.

At the invitation of the Chairperson and Board of the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute for International Relations and Strategic Studies (LKIIRSS), the Secretary-General will speak at a public event in Colombo on 2 September on ‘Sustaining Peace – Achieving Sustainable Development Goals’, focusing in particular on Goal 16, namely, the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development.

A workshop on the Right to Information Act organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media for Secretaries to Ministries and Chief Secretaries of Provincial Councils will be held on 01st September, 2016 from 8.45 a.m. Committee Room 01 of the Parliament of Sri Lanka under the patronage of Hon. Minister Gayantha Karunathilake, Hon. Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranawithana and the Secretary to the Ministry Mr. Nimal Bopage.

The keynote address will be made by Hon. Karunarathna paranawithana, Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media on the Concept of Right to Information and its Evolution. Later, Hon. Dr. Jayampathi Wickramarathna will address the gathering on Salient Features of the Right to Information Act in Sri Lanka.

At the end of the workshop a five-member panel headed by Hon. Karunarathna Paranawithana will discuss the appointment of Information Officers, identification of the role of Public Authorities in implementing the Right to Information Act and the planning of future activities.

A special discussion with Heads of state and private media institutions held today (29th) in the Auditorium of the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media at under the patronage of Mr. Nimal Bopage, Secretary to the Ministry to discuss the National Media Awards – 2015 to be organized by the Ministry and to obtain their views and proposals in making the Award Ceremony a successful event.

In this ceremony, news and feature articles published in newspapers, programmes broadcast in radio and television channels during year 2015 will be evaluated. In addition, news articles published in newscasting websites registered under the Ministry will also be evaluated. The Award Ceremony will be held at the end of the year.

Heads of state and private media institutions and Ministry officials attended this discussion.

Mr. Karunarathna Paranawithana, Deputy Media Minister has been appointed as the acting Media Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena during the absence of Minister of Parliamentary reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka, who is overseas

Phase one of awarding Tablet PCs for parliamentary journalists organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media in collaboration with the Ministry of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure aimed at empowering journalists with modern information technology held yesterday (23rd) at Parliament premises under the patronage of the Hon. Speaker, Mr. Karu Jayasuriya, Hon. Gayantha Karunathilake, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure.

In attending the event, the Hon. Speaker stated that the Parliament of Sri Lanka has now become the best Parliament in Asia and he appreciated the contribution of parliamentary journalists therein in reporting parliamentary news.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon. Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media said that the journalists should always be ahead of the general public and he further added that the journalists who have worked with pen and paper should be facilitated with sophisticated technology and the Ministry is currently focusing on the welfare of journalists and establishing a proper salary scheme for the journalists.

01. Strengthening the Secretariat for coordinating the reconciliation mechanism (Document No – 07)

The above secretariat was established in late 2015 according to a decision taken by the Cabinet of Ministers to productively implement decisions, programmes and processes related to reconciliation process. It is vested with the task of planning and implementing the reconciliation process in Sri Lanka. It also coordinates and facilitates policy making and implementing agencies. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to provide necessary human resources and funds for this secretariat, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Federation of Asian Bishops' Conference (Document No – 09)

The Federation of Asian Bishops' Conference acts to affirm a good coordination in activities related to Catholics in Asian countries. The Plenary Meeting of this conference is held once in 04 years and it is scheduled to be held on 28th November to 04th December 2016 in Negombo. Eight Cardinals and more than 150 Bishops representing all countries in Asia will participate in this event. The proposal made by Hon. John Amaratunge, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, to obtain the contribution of the Sri Lankan government for holding this event in Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Liberalization of lubricant industry (Document No – 14)

At present 13 companies including Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and Lanka Indian Oil Company are engaged in the lubricant industry. However, Sri Lanka could not gain the full benefits of the industry due to issues such as non-issuance of new licence, not amending the biannual registration fees and licence fees since 2006, and non establishment of an independent regulator. Accordingly following proposals made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, presented with the view of implementing the budget proposal in 2016 to facilitate the competition of the industry, were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

(i). Call for applications from interested investors for issuance of licence by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources Development.
(ii). Increase the biannual fixed registration fee and licence fee from Rs. 1 million to Rs. 2 million and increase the maximum registration fee from Rs. 5 million to Rs. 6 million with immediate effect.
(iii). Instruct the Sri Lanka Standards Institute to issue national level quality certificates to imported and locally blended lubricants.
(iv). Authorise the Sri Lanka Public Utilities Commission to act as the regulator of the lubricant industry.
(v). Instruct the Consumer Affairs Authority to enact necessary legislation required to provide quality lubricant products to the public.
(vi). Instruct the Sri Lanka Customs and Department of Import and Export Control to strictly impose guidelines issued by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources Development.

04. Liberalization of Bitumen trade (Document No – 15)

Bitumen which is widely used in road and other constructions has a frequently expanding market. It has a sustainable market as it is used in construction of new roads as well as renovation of roads. As in the region and in other developing countries there is an expanding market for bitumen, liberalization of the bitumen trade will enable Sri Lanka to become the regional supplier. Accordingly following proposals made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, presented with the view of implementing the budget proposal in 2016 to liberalize the bitumen market, were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

(i). preparation of directions and policies for liberalization of bitumen import
(ii). Issuance of licence for bitumen import by listing it as an item under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act.
(iii). Instruct Sri Lanka Standards Institute to introduce standards to suit international standards.
(iv). Instruct Industrial Technology Institute and Road Development Authority to upgrade and accredit their laboratory facilities for issuance of quality conformity certificate.
(v). Introduction of a biannual fixed registration fee of Rs. 2 million from licence holders.

05. Agreement between Sri Lanka and Georgia on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and official/service passports (Document No – 17)

The proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to enter into the above agreement with the view of developing the friendship between the two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


06. Allocation of funds for the completion of partially completed projects (Document No – 22)

Projects of construction of Battaramulla Polduwa by-pass road, drainage improvement in Imaduwa town, construction of Tangalle and Angunakolapelessa commercial complexes and Middeniya town development which are implemented by the Urban Development Authority and construction of Lunugamwehera and Walasmulla bus stands implemented by the Hambantota District Secretariat are being suspended. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to provide allocations of Rs. 516.8 million to complete the above projects and to assign their construction to current contractors, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


07. Transferring of government pilgrims rest building constructed under the Matale alu vihara sacred site planning scheme to the Matale alu vihara temple (Document No – 24)

The above building constructed by the government for providing accommodation for pilgrims was transferred to the Matale Alu Viharaya for 05 years from 2009. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to transfer the building for further 05 years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


08. Obtaining Indian Assistance for development activities in Hambantota District under 'Wewak samaga Gamak' programme (Document No – 25)

Indian government has agreed to provide a grant of Rs. 300 million for livelihood development including fisheries in Hambantota District. Part of the grant is expected to be used for developing fisheries villages under the above programme. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to sign an agreement between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Republic of India on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


09. Memorandum of Understanding for building cooperation in Fisheries Industry (Document No – 26)

The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to sign a MoU between the Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Bureau of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China and the National Aquaculture Development Authority of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Granting financial subsidy for tea, rubber and coconut fertilizer (Document No – 28)

In terms of a decision made at the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management it has been decided to grant the fertilizer subsidy to tea, coconut and rubber smallholders who own a cultivated land in extent of one hectare or less, in proportion to the extent of land cultivated annually. A financial subsidy of Rs. 15000 for tea sector, Rs. 9000 for coconut sector and Rs. 5000 for rubber sector is granted. The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to increase the current extent of land from 01 hectare to 02 hectares with the view of benefitting more cultivators under the above subsidy scheme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Construction of proposed economic centre in Vavuniya at two places and obtaining of consultancy services (Document No – 32)

Selection of a suitable place to construct the Economic Centre in Vavuniya, which is to be constructed under a budget proposal 2016, has been assign to the Vavuniya District Development Committee. It was required to complete the construction using budgetary allocations within this year. Considering the recommendations made by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management, the proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to construct 2 Economic Centres in Mankulam of Mullaitivu District and in Mathauvaithakulam in Vavuniya District, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


12. Holding International Religious conference in November 2016 in Colombo (Document No – 40)

The Cabinet has already approved to hold two international religious conferences considering the timely need for building relationship, coexistence between religions and reconciliation between nationalities. The proposal made by Hon. M.H.A. Haleem, Minister of Post, Postal Services and Muslim Religious Affairs, to obtain funds to hold the above conference under the theme 'Role of Religion in pluralistic and democratic societies in South and South East Asia- perspective of Islam' in November 2016 in Colombo with the participation of high level local and foreign representatives including heads of states of about 16 countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Obtaining fishnet products to be distributed among fishermen from Northsea Company (Document No – 41)

The joint proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs and Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to purchase fishnet products on the above purpose from 100% treasury owned company Northsea Limited, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Supply of Uniform and other clothing material for the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, Air Force and Civil defence Force for 2016 (Document No – 45)

Clothing requirement for above purposes are being purchased from local textile manufacturers from 2005 and it has been implemented under the Domestic Textile Allocation Committee established under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defense, to purchase required textiles from domestic manufacturers as recommended by the Domestic Textile Allocation Committee on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Construction of roads in downstream development area under Moragahakanda – Kaluganga Development Project (Document No – 46)

Development of irrigation and infrastructure in downstream area of the above project is important to resettle people affected by the project and to gain its full benefits. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to award the contracts of construction of (road surfacing) Moragahakanda – Wellawela Road (6.37 km), Medirigiriya – Kantale Road via Agbopura (8.5 km) and roads inside New Laggala town according to the recommendations made by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Central Expressway Project – Construction of 3rd phase from Pothuhera to Galagedara (32.5 km) – Obtaining bids and proposals (Document No – 47)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to call for bids and proposals for selection of a contractor and a consultant according to the recommendations made by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management on the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Infrastructure development in the Sri Lanka institute of Advanced Technological Education, Jaffna (Document No – 48)

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award the contract for construction of a 04 storied building for the Institute of Advanced Technological Education, Jaffna, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Ratnapura Expressway project – Receive proposals for the procurement of civil works contracts (Document No – 50)

It is proposed to construct Ratnapura Expressway (73.9 km) from Kahathuduwa interchange on the Southern Expressway to Pelmandulla. Feasibility studies, preliminary design and environmental impact assessment are being carried out at present. The EXIM bank of China has agreed to fund its civil work construction. The Expressway is to be constructed in 04 parts and the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to call for technical and financial proposals from companies recommended by the Government of China for the each part of the road, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Construction of a new three storied building for the Haliela Divisional Secretariat (Document No – 52)

Haliela Divisional Secretary Division in Badulla District is comprised of 57 Grama Niladhari Divisions and a population of over 90000 people. Currently the Divisional Secretariat is situated in old building with limited space causing various difficulties for the public. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a new three storied building for the benefit of the public and the staff at an estimated cost of Rs. 176 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Award of contract for construction of Habarana – Veyangoda 220 kV Transmission line (lot-b) (Document No – 55)

Above project is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. The proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to award the above contract as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Construction of a housing scheme for married officers of the Police Special Task Force (Document No – 56)

It has become an immediate requirement to provide housing facilities for married officers in the STF engaged in various defence activities including maintaining law and order in Colombo and suburbs, control of violence, and relief operations in disaster situations. The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to construct a housing complex in the Kalapaluwawa STF Camp at an estimated cost of Rs. 388 million on the above purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22. Establishment of National Information Centre (Document No – 57)

Provision of complete, reliable and accurate official information to public is a key responsibility of the government and it has been reaffirmed by the recently adopted Right to Information Act. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to establish a National Information Centre by implementing rules of good governance, obtaining public opinion in policy making, providing official information of the government to electronic and print media and coordinating information and to act as the government's official media spokesperson, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The Sannasa (Scroll) on the successful conclusion of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena by Diyawadana Nilame Nelanga Dela Bandara.

UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova said that genuine political will is essential for proper implementation of global agenda on climate change and environment protection. She said this when President Maithripala Sirisena assured the Sri Lanka government’s total commitment for protection of the environment.


President Sirisena, recalling the discussions he held with Madam Bokova when they met during the Paris Summit on Climate Change in December 2015 said that Sri Lanka is very concerned about global warming and expressed total commitment to protect and sustain the environment. He said this when the UNESCO Director General called on him at his official residence in Colombo yesterday (17th Aug.). Madam Bokova is currently visiting Sri Lanka on an invitation extended by President Sirisena.

She said that she was fortunate to visit magnificent heritage sites such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Kandy. She made a special mention about the beauty and greenery of Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and said it was a lovely testimony to green environment of this island-nation. She expressed happiness that the UNESCO could support restoration and preservation of the important cultural heritage sites of Sri Lanka.

The President thanked the UNESCO for the assistance provided to Sri Lanka for culture, education and science for a long period of time. He said that Sri Lanka has a strong relationship with the United Nations and described the steps taken by the government to improve cultural heritage sites. He said that the government has given priority to economic development and strengthening of reconciliation.

Madam Bokova said that the UN is highly pleased about the total commitment displayed by the government of President Sirisena for resolving pressing issues.
The President expressed appreciation over the tremendous service rendered by Madam Bokova as UNESCO Director General and wished her very best for her future endeavours.

Education Minister AkilaViraj Kariyawasam, Foreign Secretary Esala Weerakoon, Ambassador to France and UNESCO Permanent Representative Tilak Ranaviraja, officials from UNESCO, Paris and UNESCO, New Delhi offices and UNESCO Commission in Sri Lanka were present on this occasion.

01. Granting state lands for landless war heroes (Document No – 08)

The government has implemented various welfare programmes for caring of war heroes who have sacrificed their lives, being disappeared and become disabled in tri forces, the police department and the Civil Security Department during their active service on behalf of the sovereignty of Sri Lanka. Accordingly granting of state lands to them under the State Lands Ordinance is being implemented and the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defense, to proceed with the project with introducing amendments to resolve its prevailing shortcomings, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


02. Rehabilitation of degraded agricultural lands in Kandy, Badulla and Nuwara Eliya districts (Document No – 11)

The land degradation caused by various reasons including soil erosion has become a severe environmental issue in Sri Lanka. About 50% of lands in central highlands have degraded and most of them are in Kandy, Badulla and Nuwara Eliya Districts. The government has paid its attention on preventing this issue through a sustainable land management, considering its impact on ecosystem and farmers in the area. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement the above project during 2016-2020 with funds provided by the Government of Sri Lanka amounted to US$ 9,740,000 and by the Global Environmental Facility through Food and Agriculture Organization amounted to US$ 1,334,657, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Provision of solutions to issues occurred with the control of use of chemicals harmful to Ozone layer (Document No – 12)

The Government of Sri Lanka has taken steps to gradually remove from use, the material harmful to ozone layer and introduction of ozone friendly alternatives and technologies according to the provisions of Vienna convention and Montreal Protocol. Accordingly a limitation and a quota scheme for Hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) have been introduced in 2013. This may impact on services and maintenance activities which require the said chemical especially the refrigerators and air conditioners sector. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to appoint a committee with representatives from relevant ministries, departments and institutions to review and make recommendations to the Cabinet of Ministers on the short-term and long-term proposals made in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Implementation of an international standard for plugs and socket outlets (Document No – 15)

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka should take action to protect public from possible accidents occurred from generation, transmission, distribution and supply or the use of electricity according to the Sri Lanka Electricity Act No. 20 of 2009. Reported deaths occurred in 2012 due to electrocution was 180 which is a high value compared to international indicators. The commission has implemented various awareness programmes and direct interferences to minimize electrocutions by 2020. Therefore, the total deaths have been minimized to 77 in 2015. Use of various substandard plugs, sockets, electrical accessories, adaptors, and extension codes have caused many electrocutions and fires. Hence, considering opinion of professionals, public and relevant institutions the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to apply G grade as the sole standard for plugs and socket outlets used in Sri Lanka, and to allow the use of currently used plugs and socket outlets and which are sold within next two years (02) to the end of their lifetime, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Obtaining the service of retired Technical Officers of three armed forces for development programmes implemented under the Ministry of National policies and Economic affairs (Document No – 16)

Two (02) rural infrastructure development projects covering all the districts in the country have been implemented under the Ministry of National policies and Economic Affairs. In addition other projects by various ministries are being implemented through District Secretariats. The requirement of Technical Officers in the regional level is 700 but only 300 are in the active service that causes a barrier in completion of above projects in due dates. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to obtain the service of retired Technical Officers of Three Armed Forces in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Developing an integrated rural development mechanism (Document No – 17)

Shortcomings such as coordinating weaknesses and inclusion of tasks in a certain project in the scope of another project have occurred in implementation of rural infrastructure projects by various ministries. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to establish a steering committee comprised of Secretaries or their representatives of Ministries of National Policies and Economic Affairs, Finance, Home Affairs, Rural Economics and Provincial Councils and Local Government to implement an integrated rural development mechanism, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Holding the Second Global Health Consultation on Migration Health in Sri Lanka from 25th to 28th October 2016 (Document No – 27)

H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena has proposed to hold the above event with the view of emphasising the importance of holding such discussions for highlighting important and common issues on protecting the health of migrants. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to hold the above event in Sri Lanka from 25th to 28th October 2016 with the participation of around 40 countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Permission under section 22(4) of the Exchange Control Act for remittance of export proceeds (Document No – 29)

Payments received for exports should be remitted within 90 days from the exportation according to the provisions of the Exchange Control Act. According to the requests made by relevant parties, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to extend the relevant period as 120 days with effect from 01 August 2016 and to provide a relief period of 30 days before taking legal action after the expiration of 120 days, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. National Policy on durable solutions for conflict-affected displacement (Document No – 32)

This policy has been prepared with long discussions held with relevant ministries, national, provincial and district level stakeholders, UN agencies, Civil Society Organizations, and displaced communities. It demonstrates the government's commitment in rebuilding the lives of displaced families on a rights-based approach. Affirming a durable solution goes beyond resettlement and it includes provision of protection, housing, water, sanitation and healthcare, primary education, a good living standard, and access to livelihood etc. Also they should be socialised without any discrimination based on their gender, ethnicity, age, language, political opinion, religion, caste, living place etc. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to accept the above policy, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Development of Anamaduwa Public Bus stand stage II (Document No – 42)

Anamduwa town renders its service to many rural areas that are depending on agriculture especially as a centre for sale of agricultural products and provision of material for a large catchment area. The Bus stand situated in the centre of the town provides facilities to about 15,000 passengers daily. Anamaduwa Bus Stand development has been identified as a priority project by the Anamaduwa Development Plan, and its construction have commenced in 2012 with provincial council funds. As the project aims to develop urban facilities for the public, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to complete its balance work by the Urban Development Authority and to obtain required allocations of Rs. 25 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Re-development of Chilaw Fishery Harbour (Document No – 43)

Re-development of the Chilaw Fishery Harbour, which is situated near the estuary of the Deduru Oya, is a long awaited request by the fishermen of the area and its renovation is being done. Currently, about 1110 OFRP and about 35 multiday boats are carrying out fishing in this area and the lagoon basin is used as an anchorage. The main issue is the protection of fishery vessels while travelling through the estuary of the Deduru Oya. Many lives and property have been damaged in rough sea conditions. Therefore, people have to engage in fishing activities only in calm sea conditions. As a solution to this problem the feasibility report proposes to construct a breakwater and to remove sand from access road and mouth of the lagoon and the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to obtain funds of Rs. 550 million required in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Provision of new infrastructure for regional courts (Document No – 46)

Many Magistrate Courts and District Courts situated outside Colombo are being maintained in old buildings with minimum facilities causing difficulties in proceeding with legal procedures. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to construct new buildings for courts in Gampola, Ruwanwella, Mullaitivu and Passara and to establish a Circuit Magistrate's Court in Mankulam with an estimated cost of Rs. 1,172 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Helanco Hotels and Spa (PVT) Ltd – Reduction of Stated Capital (Document No – 47)

A sum of Rs. 18.5 billion was invested by Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation, Employees Provident Fund and Litro Gas Lanka Ltd in the equity of Canwill Holdings (Pvt) Ltd for the purpose of construction of Grand Hyatt Colombo Hotel through its fully owned subsidiary Sinolanka Hotels and Spa Pvt Ltd and the constructions commenced in 2012. During its construction it was decided to invest Rs. 4 billion in building another hotel called Hyatt Regency in Hambantota. Although, Rs. 315 million has been spent, constructions of the said hotel have not been commenced. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Kabir Hashim, Minister of Public Enterprise Development, to use the funds allocated for Hyatt Regency in completion of the Grand Hyatt Colombo Hotel, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. It has also been decided to investigate on investing money of public enterprises in commercial ventures which are out of their basic objectives.

14. Cultural Cooperation Agreement between the Republic of France and Sri Lanka (Document No – 51)

The joint proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs and Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to enter into the above agreement between the Ministry of Culture and Communication of France and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs of Sri Lanka for exchange of knowledge and experience on museum sector and conservation of architectural heritage and archaeological sites in France and Sri Lanka and to enable Sri Lanka to obtain new technology in France and their specialist cooperation in the said fields, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Additional Financing for Local Government Enhancement Sector Project (Pura Neguma) (Document No – 53)

The proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to take action for provision of clean drinking water for Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Districts which the Chronic Kidney Disease is being prevailed and Matale District of Central Province Badulla and Monaragala Districts in Uva Province and Puttalam and Kurunegala Districts in North Western Province, improve provision of infrastructure and basic facilities on priority basis in provincial level, and to maintain restructuring activities and capacity building in a sustainable level of local government institutions covered by the project under the above project with an investment of US$ 67.84 million by the Asian Development Fund and the Government of Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Construction of two storied building instead of the building No. 54, at Katukurunda Training School of Special Task Force (Document No – 55)

The main training school of the Special Task Force (STF) which is under the Police Department is the Katukurunda Training School. Trainings such as Training on VIP security, training in riots and commotions control, and training on bomb disposal are being conducted in the school. Local and Foreign groups of officers are also trained. The building which provides residential facilities to trainees is very old and it can only provide accommodation for 100 officers. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to build a new two storied building that enables to provide accommodation for 200 officers at an estimated cost of Rs. 101.49 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Requesting for proposals for the enhancement and upgrading of institute of Engineering Technology, Katunayake (Document No – 60)

Above project has already been approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to obtain proposals from the supplier recommended by the Government of Austria, which is the funding country, and to appoint a Technical Evaluation Committee and a Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee to evaluate those proposals and to implement this project at a maximum cost of Euro 9.5 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Implementation of a Community based power generation programme "Soorya Bala Sangramaya" (Battle for Solar Energy) (Document No – 67)

Currently 50% of electricity production in Sri Lanka is done by renewable energy sources and it is expected to increase this percentage to 60% in 2020 and to 70% in 2030. Accordingly, it is required to build wind power plants of 600 MW and solar power plants of 3000 MW within the next 10 years. It is expected to join consumers in power generation and to promote small solar power plants established on the roof of their houses by the project called 'Soorya Bala Sangramaya'. It is expected to make at least 20% of consumers to produce electricity and it is expected pay for the excess electricity generated by the consumer. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy, to implement this project within the next 10 years as a national programme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Sri Lanka’s national economic policy and the attended opportunities and incentives offered to local and foreign investors will be unveiled very soon, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said.

The Prime Minister disclosed this during a special discussion with representatives of the Chong Jing Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Company on August 14 during his tour of North East China.

The Chong Jing Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Company administered by the government of the Chong Jing Megapolis is among the 100 leading multinational organisations in China as well as one of the 500 leading service enterprises in China.

Chong Jing Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Company chairman Yu Yang said once Sri Lanka unveiled its national economic policy, his company would provide all assistance and encouragement to entrepreneurs in the Chong Jing Megapolis to branch out and invest in Sri Lanka.

He said his company was already mulling the possibility of undertaking construction work in the proposed Hambantota Industrial Zone.

They have already paid attention towards setting up canned fish, gem and jewellery production industries as well as warehouses for export goods in the Hambantota Zone.

Yu Yang said he hoped to submit plans for building the Hambnatota Megapolis by utilising the wide experience his company commended in the engineering and construction fields.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said that since Sri Lanka possessed a limited market, it hoped to enter into free trade agreements with various countries in the international field.

This would enable investors to reach out to a wider market through Sri Lanka, the Prime Minister said.

Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Yi Shiang Liang who was associated in the discussions, said China should lend all assistance to Sri Lanka to achieve massive economic development.

He said Sri Lanka - China bilateral relations was the best example of the close diplomatic relations existing between the two countries.

Ministers Anura Priyadarshana Yapa and Patali Champika Ranawaka and Sri Lankan Ambassador in China Dr. Karunasena Kodituwakku were also present.

Vast strides have been made in the sphere of media transforming Sri Lanka's media culture under the newly formed unity government, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka said.

He made these observations making the keynote address at an awareness seminar on ‘Right to Information’ held for Galle district provincial media persons.

Karunathille said unlike in the past, under the government which is committed to uphold the norms of good governance, media persons could write freely and criticize the shortcomings of the government without fear.

“Media personnel had been killed, maimed, tortured and made to disappear and investigative journalists left the country in fear of their lives during the previous regime for exposing massive scale corruption taken place during the period. Today they are free and safe in exposing corruption and crimes of whatever nature even if committed by the politicians in upper echelons," he said.

Referring to ‘Right to Information Act' Minister Karunathilaka said according to international surveys ‘ Right to Information’ Act of Sri Lanka had been rated as the second most democratic Right to Information Bill drafted in South Asia.

In the formulation of the Right to Information Bill, numerous professionals, experts, intellectuals on relevant subjects, civil society representatives and media organisations had been consulted and their opinions had been considered. Several rounds of discussions with the parliamentarians had been conducted to reach a consensus, Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka said.

Right to Information Bill could immensely benefit both the public and the media persons once this was fully implemented. In accordance with the Right to Information, every citizen was entitled to obtain authentic information relevant to every sphere from state institutions and no information could be withheld.

If the state institutions failed to provide relevant information, people could resort to litigation, he stressed. Referring to the welfare programmes for the benefit of the provincial media persons, he said attention had been drawn in providing lands and houses for those media persons not having their own houses. Under this programme a state-owned land had already been identified at Akmeemena electorate in the Galle district for a housing scheme for the media persons, Minister Karunathilaka said.

Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media, Department of Government Information, and the Sri Lanka Press Council organized the seminar. Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranawithana, secretary to ministry of parliamentary reforms and mass media Mr. Nimal Bopage and the Chairman of the SLPC Koggala Wellala Bandula were also present.

01. Relief to police officers who have faced difficulties due to political reasons (Document No – 08)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to provide reliefs to police officers who are not being undergone any disciplinary action among 129 officers recommended by the Committee of Officials appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers to consider appeals which have been submitted by police officers who have confronted political revenge, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. It has been decided to implement the said recommendations not to affect the seniority of officers in police service.


02. Financial City (Document No – 09)

The key objective of the proposed financial city is to become the prominent financial hub in the region and it has concerned to attract foreign investments from Indian, South Asian, and Middle East region as well as from European countries including England. Making this city the financial hub of the region will increase the flow of foreign capital into the country. It will also provide broad opportunities of employment for Sri Lankans. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to implement the this project under the supervision of the Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to draft legislations for establishment of the Financial City and to obtain required legal services in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Programme for development of Religious Centres with the view of building a moral society (Document No – 14)

Religious values should be promoted to build a moral society in the country and the government has paid its attention to develop selected religious centres in various provinces of the country for making a religious awakening in the country. This intends to use a religious approach for building a civilized society with the influence of religious practice by preventing the spiritual decline. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to implement this programme with special attention on active religious centres and to appoint a Committee with Secretary to the President, Secretary to the Prime Minister and Secretary to the Ministry of Buddha Sasana to coordinate this programme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. The Project for improving Japanese television programmes in Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (Document No – 15)

The government of Japan has agreed to provide a grant of Japanese Yen 52.6 million (approximately Rs. 73 million) for providing 449 educational documentary programmes to the SLRC. It will also cover the costs for dubbing, subtitling, and production to be telecasted in Sri Lanka. This will increase the global awareness of Sri Lankan spectators. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to sign exchange notes, and to enter into a grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Guidelines on Swiss challenge procedure (Document No – 16)

The government emphasizes the following of competitive bidding to affirm the transparency and value for money in implementing development projects and also discourages unsolicited proposals. However, many countries follow the Swiss Challenge Procedure on such unsolicited proposals considering their positive aspects such as reveal of potentialities that have not been concerned. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to include the Guidelines on Swiss Challenge Procedure prepared by the Ministry of Finance in the Government Procurement Guidelines to be followed on unsolicited proposals, was approved as a principle by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Strengthening of Dengue prevention and controlling activities in Sri Lanka (Document No – 26)

The Dengue disease has been a major health issue in the recent past and the Ministry of Health has taken many steps to fight this challenge. However it has been observed that such activities should be continued as dengue breeding places are situated in household and institutional premises. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to assign a permanent and committed staff to implement a dengue prevention programme, and to provide necessary physical resources and to implement the programme with the Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Publishing of healthcare information, news and advertisement through TV screens for patients and visitors in government hospitals (Document No – 27)

The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to implement a project for instalment of LED TV screens in suitable places in clinics, wards, OPDs and entrances, for publishing above material in a novel way for patients and visitors, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Establishment of the Financial Assets Management Agency (Document No – 31)

It has been proposed in the budget 2016 to establish an agency for restructuring of financial assets for supporting the recapitalization and restructuring of failing finance companies. Accordingly, the Financial Assets Management Agency is to be setup. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to proceed with the above activities including preparing the legal framework in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Establishment of the Performance and Efficiency Management Unit (Document No – 32)

Performance Management is very important for sustainable and fixed public finance management and for utilization of taxes charged from the people in efficient and fruitful manner. However, it was a weakness that an agency to study whether the government funds have been invested productively and have they been achieved the expected goals. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to establish the PEM unit under the General Treasury to review the efficiency and productivity of fund utilization of Ministries, Departments and Public Enterprises, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Paddy Purchasing Programme in Yala Season 2016 (Document No – 35)

The harvesting of Yala season 2016 will be commencing recently and the Paddy Purchasing Board has planned to purchase 120,000 MT of paddy covering 19 districts under the Paddy Purchasing Programme. Hence, it is expected to purchase paddy directly from registered farmers engaged in cultivation under the coordination of District Secretaries, Divisional Secretaries and Officers in the rural level. The proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to purchase a kilogram of Keeri Samba paddy for Rs. 50/-, a kilogram of Samba paddy for Rs. 41/- and a kilogram of Nadu paddy for Rs. 38 in Yala Season 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Special Deposit Account Act (Document No – 37)

It has been proposed by the budget 2016 to grant residency visa to foreign individuals who bring a large amount of foreign exchange into the country and it is essential to introduce the Special Deposits Account Act to implement that proposal. Under the proposed act individual who remits US$ 300,000 will be granted 10 years residency visa and a minimum balance of US$ 300,000 should be maintained throughout the 10 years. Expenses of such persons would create a demand for our products and services such as hotels, recreation and transport and encouraging them to start ventures in these countries will provide employment opportunities as well as business partners for Sri Lankans. These visa holders will not be entitled to be employed in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to direct the Legal Draftsman to draft the proposed Special Deposit Account Act, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Exportation of unique and exclusive antiquities in Sri Lanka for foreign exhibitions (Document No – 39)

Requests have been made by foreign countries and their Missions in Sri Lanka regarding the above matter. Considering the value and safety of those antiquities the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to prepare replica of selected collection of antiquities to be provided for exhibition in foreign countries only with the bilateral agreement between leaders of two countries, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Robotic Application (Document No – 41)

It is expected that the Global Robotic Technology Market will reach US$ 82.7 billion in 2020. Though Sri Lanka is in a primary level in robotic technology, it has been observed that a peculiar support could be obtained in increasing the productivity and competition in Sri Lankan industries. It will help in automation of tasks, increase productivity and quality and to minimize human mistakes. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to establish a Centre of Excellence in Robotic Application with a public – private partnership, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Development of Smart Cities under the Western Megapolis (Document No – 44)

It has been identified as an essential task to develop infrastructure in Smart Cities in the Western Megapolis. Information and Communication Technology is utilized in Smart Cities for expanding quality, performance and interaction in urban services, minimizing of cost and resource consumption, and improving the relationship between the citizens and the government. According to the recommendations of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the internationally recognized Siemens Limited for obtaining ICT assistance in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Obtaining the cooperation of the International Enterprise Singapore to implement Western Region Megapolis Development Activities (Document No – 45)

The Western Region Megapolis has been identified as the key development strategy and a number of projects are to be implemented under that project. Some of the projects among them are complex and technically sophisticated projects and require the support of international experts. Therefore, considering the importance of exchanging the experiences of Singapore, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to sign a MoU with the International Enterprise Singapore, which is under the Ministry of Trade and Industries of Singapore, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Allocation of a land at Dambulla to the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs to setup a cold store (Document No – 46)

The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to allocate a land of 188 perches to the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs to the assessed value of the Chief Assessor to set up a cold store under the implementation of the second stage of the Dambulla Special Economic Centre, benefiting local vegetable and fruit producers, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Establishment of a High tech agriculture Training Centre at Walpita Farm owned by the Department of Agriculture with the Objective of having access to the advance agricultural knowhow in Japan (Document No – 50)

It is important to train a group of persons that can productively use the technical knowledge and to attract young entrepreneurs for increasing the productivity in agricultural field. The Japan Lanka Agriculture Industrial Research and Training Centre (Pvt) Ltd registered in Sri Lanka expects to establish a Research and Training Centre in Sri Lanka and a land of 06 acres in Walpita Farm is expected to be utilized in this regard. The proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to sign a MoU with the relevant company in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Strengthening of the National Equipment and Machinery Organization (Document No – 54)

The National Equipment and Machinery Organization was established in 1992 for provision of required equipment and machinery to public institutions and Local Government Institutions and currently it is operated as an independent institution under the State Engineering Corporation. The proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to obtain the further service of the National Equipment and Machinery Organization for obtaining machinery and vehicles for construction projects of government institutions and to award contracts for selected works, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Procurement of locally manufactured surgical rubber gloves for government hospitals (Document No – 64)

Rubber gloves used in surgeries in government hospitals are being purchased from local manufacturers and the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Construction of the proposed Divisional Secretariat in Wattala (Document No – 65)

The current building which the Wattala Divisional Secretariat is being situated will be removed for the construction of the Outer Circular Highway. The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a new five storied building for the said Divisional Secretariat at an estimated cost of Rs. 198.8 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Construction of a new two storied building for the Divisional Secretariat, Mahiyanganaya (Document No – 66)

The Mahiyanganaya Divisional Secretary Division is comprised of 35 Grama Niladhari Divisions and a population of 84,000 persons. The space of allocated for the office is inadequate compared to the service rendered by it. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a new two storied building for the Mahiyanganaya Divisional Secretariat at a cost of Rs. 221 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

22. Construction of a new three storied building for the District Secretariat, Kilinochchi (Document No – 67)

The Kilinochchi District is comprised of 04 Divisional Secretariats and 95 Grama Niladhari Divisions with population of 138,792 of 41,792 families. The first phase of constructing a new building for the District Secretariat completed in 2014 and in the completed first floor about 250 employees are engaged in services facing many difficulties. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to complete the second phase of the above project at a cost of Rs. 565.5 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

23. Setting up of Immigration and Emigration Law Enforcement Centre (Document No – 68)

The Cabinet of Ministers have already approved the establishment of a detention centre for foreigners to be detained until they are deported who have retained in the country after the expiry of visa and who use Sri Lanka as a migration centre for illegally migrating to other countries. It has been observed that it should be facilitated near the Bandaranaike International Airport. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to set up the said Immigration and Emigration Law Enforcement Centre in the land of Kaludiyawalawatta, of Katana Divisional Secretary Division in Gampaha District at a cost of Rs. 327 million, according to the plan prepared by the Department of Buildings, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

24. Construction of Buildings to provide Hostel Facilities at District Level for Public Officers (Document No – 70)

Public servants face many difficulties in finding accommodation when they are attached to and transferred to service stations out of their districts. Female officers should be provided safe accommodation facilities and married officers should be provided accommodation facilities to reside with their families. As a solution to this issue, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Maddumabandara, Minister of Public Administration and Management, to implement housing schemes separately for unmarried and married officers within 05 years in five stages, covering five districts in each stage, with paying prior attention to districts which finding accommodation is very difficult, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

25. Purchase of new multirole fighter and associated weapons (Document No – 80)

The fighter aircrafts of the Sri Lanka Air Force have been aging and it is required to maintain them updated due to the importance of maintaining the oceanic security and being prepared for any unexpected threat. Hence, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defense, to obtain expressions of interest from interested aircraft manufacturers, assistant manufacturers, and authorised government agents on the government to government basis purchasing, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

26. Appointment of a Committee to report on coastal erosion affecting oluvil and ninthavur areas in the Ampara District and the payment of compensation to the affected (Document No – 82)

The above disaster have affected mainly on farmers and fisheries communities and their livelihoods. The proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to appoint a Committee of Senior Officials to review the situation and to assess the damage caused, to identify the exact amount farmers and fisheries families affected, and to make recommendations on compensations to be granted to them, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

President Maithripala Sirisena said he is determined to call for regional cooperation for prevention of drugs and narcotics smuggling as the drug menace is harming the youths of our region. He added that he would call for such cooperation at the next Summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

President said this while speaking with Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Pakistani Air Force Commander, who called on him at the official residence in Colombo today (August 9).

The President thanked Pakistan for the continuous assistance given to Sri Lanka for training of security force personnel. He also expressed his thanks to Pakistan for extending support to Sri Lanka at the international forums.

President Sirisena conveyed his condolences over the death of more than 55 civilians in a dastardly terrorist attack in the Baluchistan Provincial capital, Quetta on August 7.

Air Marshal Aman said conveyed the greeting of Pakistan Prime minister Nawaz Shariff to President Sirisena and said that Sri Lanka and Pakistan have an excellent record of defence sector cooperation.

He briefed the President on the events leading to recent tension in the Indo-Pakistan border.

Air Force Commander Gagana Bulathsinhala and Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Shakeel Hussain were also present on this occasion.

Annual Kandy Esala Perahera will begin parading the streets tonight with the Kumbal Perahera.

The KumbalPerahera will be held until 12th Friday. The RandoliPerahera will commence on the 13thand will finish with the final Randoli Perahera on 17th August. The entire Esala festival will conclude with the day Perahera and water cutting ceremony to be held on Thursday, 18th August. According to the Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy, nearly 75 tamed elephants and tuskers will join this year’s procession. The final Randoli Perahera will be telecast live on local and foreign media, he said.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya signed the Right to Information (RTI) Bill yesterday morning. The RTI Act was ratified in Parliament on 24 June. After the Speaker signed the Bill, it began to function as a law with immediate effect.

The Right to Information Act will empower the public to obtain necessary information from government ministries, deÉrtments, state corporations and statutory bodies, local government institutions, NGOs, private universities, Higher Education Institutes and Judicial bodies.

However, providing sensitive information on national Defence have been restricted under the new Act.

A special seminar organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Parliament will be held today (4th Aug.) at the Committee room no.01 of the Parliament under the patronage of Minister Gayantha Karunathilake.

Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranawithana, Secretary to the Ministry Mr. Nimal Bopage, General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Parliament Mr. Dhammika Dasanayake will also participate.

Additional Secretaries, Senior Assistant Secretaries, and senior administrative officials of all the Ministries will attend the seminar.

Role of the Parliamentary Committees, Parliamentary Standing Orders, Proceedings and the Responsibilities of the Parliamentary Bills and the Role of the related government institutions are the key areas to be addressed at the seminar.

“Asi Disi” Cricket Championship organized for the sixth year by the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media will be held on 30th September, 01st & 02nd October, 2016 in Thurstan Grounds, Colombo 07.

Applications are now being called for this soft-ball cricket tournament annually organized as a ‘Cricket Carnival’ with the participation of institutions affiliated to this Ministry as well as state and private media institutions fostering friendly and cordial relations among them.
This is a tournament of 11 players per side and only one team can represent one media institution. All players should compulsorily be employees of the respective media institution. Rules, Terms and Conditions will be informed on receipt of applications

01. Colombo Port City Project / Proposed Financial City Project – Proposed amendments for the agreement signed in September 2014 (Document No – 06, 07, 08 and 09)

Given below is a summary of changes which are suggested to incorporate in to the original agreement signed in September 2014.

Free hold lands

• According to the agreement signed in September 2014 signed by the previous government, a land of 20 hectares will be granted to the C.H.E.C. Port City (Pvt) Ltd on free hold base and the rest land is granted on 99 year lease basis.

• According to the consultations of the new government, no land will be granted on free hold basis, and all the lands will be on 99 year lease basis. If the government does not require these 20 hectares, the company may obtain the land for another 99 years.

Role of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and the Urban Development Authority

• According to the original agreement the Ports Authority Act is to be amended to enable the Ports Authority to obtain 62 hectares from the project company for its use and development activities. According to the article 6 of the act, this is limited to the objectives of the Ports Authority. Though the previous government has declared that Sri Lankan lands could be used for development of immovable properties, no such authority is granted under the article no. 6.

• Under the new agreement, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority will not be assigned of immovable properties development and its responsibilities will be limited to activities allowed by the current Sri Lanka Ports Authority Act. Therefore, it has been decided that the most suitable institution to assign reclaimed lands is the Urban Development Authority.

Role of the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development

• Under the new agreement, responsibility of performing government responsibilities including amendment of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority Act is vested with the Ministry of Ports and Shipping.

• Instead of the agreement signed by the previous government on 16 September 2014, a new trilateral agreement will be signed among the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development (on behalf of the government), UDA and the project company.

Legal situation of the lands proposed to be filled

The status of lands to be filled is unclear under the original concessionary agreement signed by the previous government. Those lands are not a part of the Colombo District. Hence, it is not considered as a land belonging to the Sri Lankan territory according to the article 5 of the Constitution. Under the new law, the land will be brought into the Administrative District of Colombo, and it will be assigned to the proposed Financial City Corporation out of the Colombo Municipal Council.

• According to the original agreement a key tax plan will be implemented by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority related to leasing of lands to the project company.

• Under the new agreement, filled lands will be gazetted by H.E. the President under the Lands Ordinance and thereafter will be allocated to the UDA. The UDA will declare them as a development area under the Urban Development Authority Act. This will happen before land is leased on 99 year basis to the Project Company.

Fishermen's Income Support Programme

• Under the original agreement, responsibility for funding the income support programme to fishermen was a responsibility of the SLPA. No such programme was implemented by the previous administration of the SLPA.

• Under the new agreement, the project company will allocate Rs. 500 million towards the fishermen's income support programme to the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development to implement the programme in consultation with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development.

Utilities and transport infrastructure

• Under the original agreement all investments in roads and utilities within the reclaimed area was the responsibility of the project company while providing all utilities and road infrastructure to the periphery of the site was the responsibility of the Government of Sri Lanka.

• Under the new agreement, the possibility of undertaking public-private partnerships through the project company will be evaluated as a long term solution to ease the GOSL's responsibility of undertaking provisions of road infrastructure and utilities to the periphery of the site.

Management and maintenance of the reclaimed area

• Under the original agreement, an Estate Management Company (EMC) 100% owned by the GOSL would manage, maintain, and repair the common areas of the Port City by collecting management charges from investors. However, until such time EMC is self-sustainable, GOSL or SLPA would have had to inject funds for the operation of the EMC.

• In order to ease the GOSL's obligation to fund such a venture, under the new agreement, the project company has agreed to consider establishing and operating the EMC in partnership with GOSL.

Limits imposed on developing GOSL lands

• The original agreement limits developments GOSL could undertake on its land during three years from the completion of reclamation to educational and cultural activities only.

• Under the new agreement the above has expanded in favour of the GOSL to include healthcare and hospitals and exhibition and convention centres and the new Colombo International Financial Centre. Also no restrictions will be placed on developing the North and West ports of the Colombo Harbour. In addition, the project company has agreed to setting up the CIFC building in the land area reclaimed first including making a new investment in the CIFC building no sooner it is technically feasible to build on reclaimed land and upon mutually acceptable terms being agreed with the GOSL after a feasibility study.

Compensation claims

• In view of the goodwill created by the visits of His Excellency the President and the Hon. Prime Minister to China, the project company has agreed to withdraw all compensation claims for losses incurred due to the suspension of the project caused by the failure of the previous administration of the SLPA to obtain the required environmental permits.

• In their original Master Plan there was provision for night racing. They had fully abandoned that plan at present. In view of this, a large extent of marketable land becomes available. Out of this, 2 hectares may be allocated to them, without reducing the land extent of 62 hectares owned by the GOSL. This will be a gesture to reciprocate their goodwill in completely waiving off all compensation claims.

• The above proposal was acceptable to the GOSL since the project company has agreed in the new master plan approved by the UDA this year to increase public lands (parks, roads, walkways, etc. to be used by the general public) by 28 hectares more than originally planned to make Port City more attractive to the public. For example, when completed port city will have 45 hectares of parks and 13 hectares of artificial beaches (compared to 5.7 hectares available to the public at Galle Face Green).

Environmental approvals

• Under the original agreement, the responsibility for undertaking and financing all environmental approvals for the project was a responsibility of the SLPA. There were shortcomings in the environmental approvals obtained by the former administration of the SLPA.

• A comprehensive new supplementary environmental impact assessment was carried out by the Ministry of Megapolis in 2015 to address such shortcomings with the cooperation and funding extended by the project company.


New environmental conditions

• Under the original environmental impact assessment study carried out in 2011, 42 conditions were imposed by the Department of Coast Conservation in its development permit.

• Under the new supplementary environmental impact assessment carried out by the Ministry of Megapolis for 269 hectares of reclaimed land and made available for public comments in December 2015, the new development permit issued by the Department of Coast Conservation includes 70 conditions to mitigate the impact on the environment.


Change of status

• The previous administration had this as a Land Reclamation Project to utilize this initially for real estate, sports, education and cultural development including night racing tracks etc. Therefore, the bulk of the land was not available for real estate development by the government.

• Now it has been agreed with the Chinese Government that this land is being used to build a Financial City to fill the vacuum between Singapore and Dubai. This will enable offshore operations. For this purpose, the government will propose new laws for governing offshore activities like in Dubai. The Financial City will make a major income earner and an employment provider for Sri Lanka.


02. Granting of state land on long term lease towards the construction of 'Resource Centre' for Sri Lanka Administrative Service Officers (Document No - 10)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to grant a land in Battaramulla area to build a Resource Centre for officers of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, which is considered as the prominent and most important public service in implementing public policies in national, provisional and divisional level, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Establishment of Tri Forces Central Ammunition Armoury and Commercial Explosive Armoury complex in an area with low population (Document No - 11)

In the period which the conflict was on progress at North Eastern areas, ammunition and explosives were stored temporarily in various places, and in 2011 the cabinet has approved the establishment of an armoury complex in the international standard in an area with low population. As it is suitable to store armaments in an area with low population, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defense, to build an armoury in Oyamaduwa area of the Anuradhapura District in the international standard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Establishment of Human Resource Service agency (Document No - 13)

According to the proposal made by the Hon. Prime Minister to establish a Human Resources Service Agency (HRSA) with the view of obtaining the service of professionals for national policy making and efficient implementation of development programmes, the cabinet has already approved to incorporate the said agency under the Companies Act No. 07 of 2007. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to obtain a grant of Rs. 5 million from the consolidated fund to fund the initial capital of the agency and to obtain the service of a private legal service provider for incorporation of the said agency, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Reconstruction/restoration of temples and places of worship damaged due to war in Northern and Eastern Provinces (Document No - 14)

Due to the war prevailed in Northern and Eastern Provinces for a long period many temples and places of worship have been damaged. Requests have been made to assign renovation of them directly to Trust Boards of respective temples/places of worship instead of following the tender procedure. Considering the nature of such constructions and financial and physical aids from local and foreign sources, and the labour contribution, steps have been taken to assign the renovation/restoration of temples/places of worship to management/trust board of respective place of worship under the direct supervision of District Secretaries and Divisional Secretaries. Above information presented by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Granting of loans for small and medium enterprise sector development and employment generation (Document No - 15)

An amount of Rs. 19,875 million has been allocated by the 2016 budget for the Rural Reawakening Programme for the development of all Grama Niladhari Divisions in the country through developing livelihood and infrastructure of the people all over the country. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to implement a programme called 'Small and Medium Enterprise Sector Development and Employment Generation' with Rs. 4,000 million of the above funds with the view of generating more employment opportunities in the SME sector, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Implementation of short term priority water supply improvements in Matara District (Document No - 17)

Two separate water supply schemes are being implemented for Matara and Weligama Urban Council areas and Pradeshiya Sabha areas. With the increasing demand their capacity is not sufficient. As a solution to the above issue, it has been decided to implement the 'Matara Stage IV Water Supply Project' and it is to be completed in 2019. Until it is being done, the proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to implement the tasks for improving the capacity of Malimbada and Hallala Water Treatment Plants as a short term measure at an estimated cost of Rs. 477 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Proposed amendments to the Regulation of Insurance Industry Act No. 43 of 2000 (Document No - 20)

The Insurance Board of Sri Lanka was established by the Regulation of Insurance Industry Act No. 43 of 2000 for facilitating the development, supervision and regulation of the insurance industry in Sri Lanka, and was subsequently amended by acts No. 27 of 2007 and No. 03 of 2011. The cabinet of ministers have granted the approval in 2013 to make several amendments including changing the Insurance Board of Sri Lanka into Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka, and accordingly the amended bill has been prepared by the Legal Draftsman. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to finalize the bill by adding the amendments recommended by the Insurance Board to provide a level playing field for foreign and local insurance companies, and to present the bill in parliament after obtaining the clearance of the Attorney General, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

 

“My government is committed without any reservations to upgrade, develop and maintain the domestic aviation industry in conformity with the applicable international standards. All possible measures will be taken for their effective implementation to enhance efficiency, effectiveness and economy”, said President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the 53rd Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation of Asia and Pacific States held at the Hilton Colombo, yesterday (01).

Concurrently, we need to improve the safety and security management systems. We have a relatively good safety, maintenance record with no major incidents to be concerned with. Nevertheless, aviation safety remains our top priority. We regularly review and update our policies on safety and enhance technology usage, he added.

Following is the full text of the speech:

Good Morning and a pleasant day to you. May I, on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka and the people of Sri Lanka, warmly welcome you, with our traditional greeting of Ayubowan, Vannakam and Asvaleyi Mallikkum, to the 53rd Conference of the Directors General of Civil Aviation of the Asia-Pacific Region. In addition, I wish you a happy and most memorable stay in this beautiful island of Sri Lanka.

It is our distinct honour and privilege that we are hosting this very important Conference for the second time in Sri Lanka after an interval of 25 years.

I am extremely confident that this meeting would become a significant and crucial forum in promoting inter and intra-regional cooperation and a tool for coordination in the very important field of civil aviation.

My government committed without any reservations to upgrade, develop and maintain the domestic aviation industry in conformity with the applicable international standards. All possible measures will be taken for their effective implementation to enhance efficiency, effectiveness and economy.

Ladies and gentlemen, I request international civil aviation players like ICAO to focus attention on the need to plan and develop human resources required to face the future needs of the aviation industry. I believe the needs of countries like ours have to get priority in such exercises. In addition, integrating business development is another area, which will benefit us and I wish you would focus on it too.

Concurrently, we need to improve the safety and security management systems. We have a relatively good safety maintenance record with no major incidents to be concerned with. Nevertheless, aviation safety remains our top priority. We regularly review and update our policies on safety and enhance technology usage.

My government and I would like to re-assure the commitment of Sri Lanka to advance the development of international civil aviation in harmony with the principles and objectives declared in the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

I am glad to observe that your conference will focus on diverse subjects in a very fitting and timely manner, with the participation of experts.

Finally, I wish all your deliberations in the next five days will be extremely rewarding and fruitful and bring new dimensions to the civil aviation industry in our region.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will leave for Indonesia today (1st Aug.) for an official visit.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe is scheduled to make a special address at the Inaugural Session of the 12th World Islamic Economic Summit and scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Maritime Affairs Minister Susi Pudjiastuti.

The Prime Minister’s office said that the Prime Minister would meet several state leaders following his special address to the summit. Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Najith Tun Abdul Razak, Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon, Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jawad al-Anani, would hold discussions with the Prime Minister. Professor Maithri Wickremasinghe, Minister Kabir Hashim, State Minister A.H.M. Fowzi. Deputy Minister Sujeeva Senasinghe, Prime Minister’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, Prime Minister’s Additional Secretary Saman Athudahetti, would accompany the Prime Minister.

This Emergency Ambulance Service has been launched with the aim of transferring a person who had faced an accident or fallen sick to a hospital within a few minutes.

The new service has been launched as a grant of the Indian Government following a request made by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Indian Government has incurred an expenditure of 7.2 million US Dollars on this programme. It also fulfils an election pledge of the Good Governance administration.
88 ambulances have been deployed for this service under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, under the first stage. These ambulances were handed over to the Prime Minister by India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Y.K. Sinha.
“In a video message delivered in Colombo to coincide with the launch of an emergency ambulance service. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India’s Development Cooperation with Sri Lanka is based on the choices and priorities set by the people, the leadership and the Government of Sri Lanka.
He said the partnership between India’s capacities and Sri Lanka’s needs is not only touching the lives of the people, it also shows the path of constructive regional cooperation.
Modi said the project is important as it will help save lives and would add to Sri Lanka’s capacities for delivering emergency healthcare.”
The new service will be initially operative within the Southern Province. It is thereafter planned to be expanded to cover the other Provinces. The service can be obtained free of charge through the 1990 hotline.

The programme provides job opportunities to 250 medical technicians who had undergone training in the supply of emergency services in India and 550 Sri Lankans.

Minister Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Health, Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine Rajitha Senarathne, High Commissioner of India Y.K. Sinha and Deputy Foreign Minister Harsha de Silva took part in the event.

Foreign Minister of Canada Stephane Dion said that Canada would provide every possible assistance to the steps taken by the government of President Maithripala Sirisena to strengthen democracy, the rule of law, reconciliation and economic development.

President Sirisena briefed him of the steps taken in the past 18 months such as adoption of the 19th Amendment, establishment of the Constitutional Council to appoint members of independent commissions, settlement of the displaced persons and institution of a committee to look into the issues pertaining to missing persons.

Minister Dion, who called on President Sirisena at the official residence in Colombo yesterday (July 28) conveyed the greetings of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The President recalled his several meetings with the Canadian Prime Minister at various international forums, thanks him for the continuous assistance for Sri Lanka’s development activities. He expressed his gratitude to Canada for extending support to Sri Lanka at the international forums.

President Sirisena, explaining the reconciliation process said that it is essential to strengthen the coexistence between the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim people through mutual respect for each others’ cultures. “Culture is stronger than law,” he said and pointed out that proper understanding about each others’ culture would provide a strong foundation for reconciliation.

“You are a man of wisdom, Your Excellency,” Foreign Minister Dion replied and added that Canada would be solidly behind Sri Lanka in this process.

Responding to President Sirisena’s request for development assistance, the Foreign Minister announced that Canada would provide assistance to a new banking system though the Sanasa Development Bank to assist entrepreneurs. Canada will also support solar power projects in Sri Lanka and several other development activities, he said.

Foreign Secretary Chitranganee Wagiswara, Canadian High Commissioner Shelly Whiting and Sri Lanka High Commissioner in Canada, A A Jawad were also present on this occasion.

   Vision   

Strengthening Hounarable Parliamentarians for an Efficient and Effective Public Service.

   Objectives    
Provision of supporting services to provide public service required from Honourable Parliamentarians to the optimum level.
This division is committed toimplement thepolicies, plans and programme in order to make efficient and effective the service delivered by parliamentarians to the general public. We provide staff, materials and other assistance enabling parliamentarians to serve for the public of this island while achieving that target.

   Activities   

  • Provision of Human Resources
  • Payment of salaries and allowances
  • Provision of physical resources and service facilities
  • Training staff of parliamentarians
  • Conduct of awareness programmes and sharing experience

   Role   

  • Provision of facilities to parliamentarians
  • Appointing staff
  • Provision of office equipment
  • Provision of permits to import vehicles on concessionary terms
  • Implementation of corporate insurance scheme
  • Training private staff

   Information of Staff Officers   

Additional Secretary

 Mrs. Chandra Miyanawala
Additional Secretary,
 Parliamentary Reforms Division
 Telephone : 011-2786946
 Fax : 011-2786947
 E mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Assistant Secretary

 Mrs. H.A.Hema Perera
 Senior Assistant Secretary,
 Parliamentary Reforms Division
 Telephone : 011-2786974
 Fax : 011-2786900
 E mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Director

 Mr.R.A.D.C.Gunasekara
 Director,
 Parliamentary Reforms Division
 Telephone : 011-2786953
 Fax : 011-2786953
 E mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Chief Accountant

 Mrs. A.G. Anula Wijerathna
 Chief Accountant,
 Parliamentary Reforms Division
 Telephone : 011-2786950
 Fax : 011-2786948
 E mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Accountant

 Mrs. R.H.C.P.K.Ranamuka
 Accountant,
 Parliamentary Reforms Division
 Telephone : 011-2786951
 Fax : 011-2786948
 E mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

{jathumbnailoff}

Deputy Media Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana said that an independent Press Commission will be established shortly to regulate the media adding that the prevailing regulations pertaining to the Print Media was insufficient.

He was speaking at yesterday’s Cabinet Media briefing at the Government Information Department.

“Under the leadership of Wijayananda Jayaweera, measures are being taken to establish the Press Commission, Deputy Minister Paranavithana said.

He further said that the Code of Ethics is not just a norm, it needs to be implemented. Presently, there are no special laws to regulate the Code of Ethics of media personnel. “We will not forcefully implement it, we will seek the opinions of all relevant stakeholders and organisations,”the Deputy Media Minister said.

01. Productive use of government funds for foreign travel (Document No - 06)

It is the duty of all public representatives and public officers to act with thrift and responsibility in expending government funds. Accordingly, instruction circulars have been issued to all public institutions. However, it has been observed that some public representatives as well as officers are engaged in foreign travels as groups especially in provincial councils and local government institutions neglecting these instructions, using public funds and foreign grants. Therefore, considering the need of expending foreign grants and foreign loans in a productive manner, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to prepare a suitable method on foreign travels of public representatives and public officers, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Concessionary taxes for commercial lands leased under state lands ordinance (Document No - 12)
Under the provisions of the State Lands Ordinance, for lands which are leased for thirty (30) years under the long-term lease scheme, the tax is calculated according to the market value calculated by the Chief Assessor and the tax rate is increased in 50% in every five years. In renting state lands for commercial enterprises the tax rate remains a high value causing many difficulties to small and medium scale entrepreneurs. Considering above facts the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to prepare a concessionary taxation method for leasing state lands, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers
03. A dollar credit line of us$ 318 million from the Government of India for the development of Sri Lankan Railway Sector (Document No - 14)

India has already granted loan facilities of about US$ 966 million for the development of the Sri Lankan railway service and they have been utilized in improving northern and southern railway lines and to purchase engines and power sets. During the Sri Lankan visit of the Indian Prime Minister in 2015, he has agreed to grant a further loan of US$ 318 million for the improvement of the railway. This loan amount is expected to be utilized in improving the signal system from Maho to Anuradhapura and Anuradhapura to Omanthai, and to purchase 06 power sets with AC carriages, 10 engines, 30 wagons with oil tanks, 20 container carrying wagons, and 160 carriages. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into an agreement with the EXIM Bank of India to obtain the said loan, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Establishment of Wildlife Control Units (Document No - 15)

Numerous long term and midterm steps have been planned to end the wild elephant-human conflict but it will take a considerable time to gain outputs by implementing these steps. Hence, there should be an arrangement to minimize damages caused by wild elephants. Moreover, there should be a programme to minimize the damages caused by animals such as leopards and crocodiles and vise versa. The cabinet approval has already been granted to establish Wildlife Control Units to act in incidents related to wild animals – human conflict as a short-term measure covering all wildlife zones that such incidents are frequently reported. According to the recommendations of the Committee of Officials appointed in this regard the proposal made by Hon. Sumedha G. Jayasena, Acting Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, to establish 05 wildlife control units swiftly as a pilot project and to review their progress to continue the establishment of the rest wildlife control units, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Establishment of an Independent aircraft accident investigation bureau (Document No - 18)

It is essential to establish an independent institution to investigate aircraft accidents in each country that are members of the Convention on International Civil Aviation. Sri Lanka is also a member of the convention. Its objective is to improve the security of aviation services, prevent possible accidents in the future, and to make recommendations for the improvement of aviation services by identifying factors for such incidents. According to the Civil Aviation Act No. 14 of 2010 the power to investigate on aircraft accidents occurred within the Sri Lankan territory is vested with the Civil Aviation Authority. According to the responsibility bound by the above convention the proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to draft legislations to establish the Independent Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau to act in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Obtaining funds for the construction of a building complex for the National Institute of Social Development in Seeduwa (Document No - 20)

National Institute of Social Development is the only public institution that educates on social work in Sri Lanka. It conducts qualitative courses with practical trainings. Currently about 1500 students are following 17 full time courses with many difficulties in a space of about 70,000 square feet. It is not sufficient conducting courses, maintaining office activities and providing welfare services for teachers and students. Therefore according to the recommendations made by the Committee of Officials appointed in this regard, the proposal made by Hon. S.B. Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to construct a building of about 100,000 square feet as the first phase of project for constructing a building complex for the National Institute of Social Development, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Project to upgrade and popularize Science, Technology, and Engineering and Mathematics education in schools (Document No - 22)

It is expected that 65% of future occupations will be related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education. However, in Sri Lanka only 30% of students study the above streams. This value is much low compared to the world job market. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to implement the above project with the association of the Ministry of Education and other relevant ministries for upgrade and popularise above fields among students and to improve the teaching process, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Construction of two-storied paediatric ward complex at provincial general hospital - Ratnapura (Document No - 27)

The Ratnapura Provincial General Hospital is the largest hospital that provides tertiary services in the Sabaragamuwa Province and it renders services to adjoining provinces too. However, there exists only one paediatric ward with 68 beds. The Paediatric Ward is always overcrowded due to directly admitted patients as well as patients transferred from surrounding hospitals. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to construct a two storied building with funds donated by donors at an estimated cost of Rs. 70 million for addition of 116 additional beds to the ward and to provide the rest facilities by the government, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


09. Enter into Memorandum of Understanding to improve the National Eye Bank of Sri Lanka (Document No - 28)

According to data of the World Health Organization, corneal blindness is the forth key reason for blindness. This could be cured by transplanting the cornea. Currently about 10 million patients suffer from corneal blindness worldwide and the lack of cornea supply for transplantation is a major barrier to eradicate corneal blindness. The National Eye Bank of Sri Lanka plays a major role in eradicating corneal blindness from Sri Lanka. National Eye Bank of Sri Lanka is the only eye bank in Sri Lanka that has obtained the acknowledged certificate of standards and suits international medical standards. It also follows all the ethics that should be followed in eye tissue transplantation. Asian Cornea Foundation and a non-profit global health organization called Sight Life Institution have extended their support in providing technical assistance and training opportunities for the National Eye Bank of Sri Lanka. The proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to enter into memoranda of understanding with these organizations with the objective of developing the National Eye Bank of Sri Lanka, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


10. Implementation of English Language training at the Sri Lanka German Training Institute, Kilinochchi and Satellite Centres in the Northern and Eastern Provinces (Document No - 31)

Vocational Training Project for Northern and Eastern Provinces in Sri Lanka is being implemented under grants and aids of the Government if Germany with the view of developing demand based vocational training in Northern and Eastern Provinces. The Sri Lanka German Training Institute established in Kilinochchi under the above project was declared open by H.E. the President recently and it is scheduled to commence training courses of National Vocational Qualification 4, 5 and 6 levels. Moreover, providing access to NVQ 1 to 3 15 Satellite Vocational Training Centres will be established in Northern and Eastern Provinces. The Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz of Germany and German International Cooperation Agency has extended their support on improving English Language proficiency of the students in the Sri Lanka German Training Institute and the said Satellite Vocational Training Centres. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to enter into relevant memoranda of understandings in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Establishment of an incubator and technology transfer centre at Makadura (West) Industrial Estate (Document No - 32)

Establishment of an incubator and technology transfer centre at Makadura (West) Industrial Estate is to be done as an amalgamated project of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka and National Enterprise Development Authority. This will facilitate the start-ups to obtain basic facilities and business ideas. Therefore the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to establish an incubator and technology transfer centre at Makadura (West) Industrial Estate (at an estimated cost of Rs. 46.5 million) and to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding between the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka and the National Enterprise Development Authority, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Construction of Commercial Complex and By-pass road at Gampola (Document No - 34)

The Gampola town in the Kandy District covers an area of 5.18 km2 and it has been planned by the Urban Development Authority to develop the Gampola town with the view of providing required qualitative and quantitative facilities for the public and to reduce the traffic congestion. It is expected to construct an alternative by-pass road and a commercial complex to reduce the traffic congestion as the first phase of this project. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to acquire a land owned by the Department of Railway to the urban development Authority for the above constructions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


13. Asian Food and Agribusiness conference of the Asian Productivity Organization to be held in Sri Lanka (Document No - 37)

The Asian Productivity Organization was established based on Japan in 1961 with the view of improving the productivity of industrial and agricultural fields. 20 countries in the Asia Pacific region including Sri Lanka have obtained its membership. It has decided to hold an Asian Food and Agribusiness Conference in Sri Lanka from 02nd to 05th August 2016 under the theme "Innovation for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of enterprises in agribusiness and food industry". The proposal made by Hon. Duminda Dissanayake, Minister of Agriculture, to host the said event, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Obtaining provisions for the payment of salaries before restructuring Janatha Estate Development Board, Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation and Elkaduwa Plantations Limited (Document No - 39)

Above institutions are being planned to be restructured due to the loss incurred by them and being become a burden to the treasury. The proposal made by Hon. Kabir Hashim, Minister of Public Enterprise Development, to obtain provisions from the General Treasury to pay salaries of the employees of these institutions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. The International Year of Shelter for the Homeless - 1987 (Document No - 40)

According to a proposal made by the late Ranasinghe Premadasa the then Sri Lankan Prime Minister as well as the Minister of Housing, at the 35th session of the United Nations General Assembly the year 1987 has been declared as the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless for resolving issues of homeless people in the world. In line with that Sri Lanka with cooperation of several developing countries has implemented several human settlement projects. The proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to commence development of several modal villages and reawakened villages in selected districts on 01 January 2017, to declare open selected human settlement projects and to organize some commemoration events to mark the 30th anniversary of the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Establishment of the New Villages Development Authority for Plantation Region (Document No - 47)

The proposal made by Hon. Palani Thigambaram, Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development, to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft legislation to establish the New Villages Development Authority for Plantation Region for joining the relevant communities with the national stream by developing their social, economic, cultural and infrastructures as recommended by the Task Force appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Memorandum of Understanding to be signed between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Canada in relation to the National Languages Equality Advancement Project (Document No - 48)

The National Languages Equality Advancement Project is to be implemented with the view of promoting coexistence, dialogue and official languages among ethnic groups in Sri Lanka as a five year project from 2017. The proposal made by Hon. Mano Ganeshan, Minister of National Coexistence, Dialogue and Official Languages, to sign a MoU between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Canada for the implementation of the above project utilizing the grant of Canadian Dollars 11.2 million by the Government of Canada, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Construction of a New Building for District Secretariat Kaluthara (Document No - 50)

Kaluthara District in the Western Province is consisting of 14 Divisional Secretary Divisions and 762 Grama Niladhari Divisions and a population of 1,217,374. The District Secretariat which about 1,100 employees are serving is situated in a 45 years old building and its space is not adequate for the staff and public. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a new building adjacent to the existing building with the renovations to the existing building at an estimated cost of Rs. 110.3 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Construction of a new four storied building for Divisional Secretariat Kaluthara (Document No - 51)

Kaluthara Divisional Secretary Divisions is consisting of 87 Grama Niladhari Divisions and a population of 159,225. The Divisional Secretariat is currently situated in the second floor of the Kaluthara District Secretariat and the lack of space has cause difficulties to its staff as well as the public. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to construct a separate building for the Kaluthara Divisional Secretariat at an estimated cost of Rs. 180 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


20. Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Political consultations between the Ministry of foreign Affairs of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia (Document No - 56)

The proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to sign the above MoU during the political consultations at the level of Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs scheduled to be held in Colombo from 3-4 August 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


21. Request for a Treasury Loan to the State Engineering Corporation (Document No - 58)

The proposal made to issue a treasury bond to obtain a loan for the State Engineering Corporation to obtain working capital to discharge numerous contracts assigned by public institutions as recommended by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


22. Proposed activities to rehabilitate the assets damaged by landslides caused due to intensive rainfall experienced during may 10 to 17 in 2016 (Document No - 61)

The intensive rainfall from 10 to 17 May 2016 experienced by the Kegalle District has caused serious damages to all Divisional Secretary Divisions including Aranayake. 151 lives were lost and 34,833 victims of 9,620 families were affected by landslides. H.E. the President has instructed to establish normalcy in the lives of people, at a special District Coordinating Committee Meeting held at Kegalle Town Hall. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to reimburse damages of 1,845 partially damaged houses by the National Insurance Trust Fund, to build 1682 new houses at a cost of Rs. 2,018.4 million for 1682 houses recommended by the National Building Research Organization including fully damaged 230 houses, to provide Rs. 200 million for 500 house owners as Rs. 400,000 each for house owners expecting to build houses in their private lands, to name prohibited areas for settlement the areas which were identified as high risk areas, and to entrust the responsibility of providing instructions on security measures to be followed in constructing house to the National Building Research Organization, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The Foreign Minister of Canada Stéphane Dion will arrive in Sri Lanka on Today (27 July) evening on an official visit. Minister Dion’s official programme will be on 28 and 29 July 2016.


This bilateral official visit to Sri Lanka by a Foreign Minister of Canada takes place after 13 years, and within less than a year since the formation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Government.

Foreign Minister Stéphane Dion will hold bilateral discussions with Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera on Thursday afternoon, 28 July 2016, at the Foreign Ministry, following which, both Ministers will address the media.

Minister Dion will call on President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Leader of the Opposition R. Sampanthan on 28 July. He will also meet the Minister of National Co-existence, Dialogue and Official Languages, Mano Ganesan, on the same day, in connection with support extended by Canada for the National Languages Equality Advancement Project (NLEAP).

On Friday 29 July, Foreign Minister Dion will travel to Jaffna, where he will meet the Governor of the Northern Province Reginald Cooray, Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran and members of civil society. The Minister will also visit Canadian funded projects including the Jaffna Hospitality Training Centre and an Agro Economic Development Project (ADP) funded by Canada with UNDP and FAO support, relating to agro economic cooperatives in the dairy and agriculture industries.

Minister Dion’s visit is expected to infuse new momentum to relations between the two countries.

President Maithripala Sirisena said the implementation of the Moragahakanda-Kalu Ganga Irrigation Development Project is not only a fulfillment of a long awaited aspiration of the farmers but also a personal dream come true for him.

He made these remarks during the national ceremony to enshrine treasures to build the main dam of the Moragahakanda-Kalu Ganga Irrigation Development Project. The ceremony in this regard was held yesterday (25) under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe in Moragahakanda.

The project, which was commenced in 2007 was to be completed in 2012 but due to the lack of interest in the highest positions of the then government it has not taken off until now, the President said.

The President further said that he is extremely glad now as the project could be commenced, and when it is completed in 2018 he would be tremendously happy and contended person.

During the ceremony, President Sirisena described that how he launched the first feasibility report when he was Deputy Minister of Irrigation and later laid the foundation stone as the Minister of Mahaweli for this project and how he was removed from the ministerial portfolio few days after he laid the foundation stone for the project. The President further said that he had to argue and take the ministerial portfolio back because he was totally committed to this project, but he had come under so many difficulties due to lack of desire to provide funds for the project.

In 2015 when deciding regarding the ministerial portfolios, he expressed his desire to hold the Mahaweli portfolio mainly because he wanted to complete the Moragahakanda-Kalu Ganga Irrigation Development Project during his tenure, he added.

President Maithripala Sirisena further explained that the lifeline of the Sri Lankan economy is agriculture and through the implementation of this project, with its resouviours with a capacity of six times of Parakrama Samudraya would irrigate thousands of acres of paddy fields and will boost up the economy of farmer community.

The Maha Sangha, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, Praliament Reforms and Mass Media Ministers Gayantha Karunathilaka and MPs, diplomats and many others participated in this event.

All measures are in place to deposit treasure items today in the main dam of the Kaluganga reservoir of the Moragahakanda-Kaluganga Development project.

The treasure depositing ceremony will take place under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at 9.30 a.m. today.

Fulfilling a long felt need of the people in the dry zone, the Moragahakanda-Kaluganga Development project is rapidly progressing to provide the dry zone with adequate water for agriculture, domestic and industrial purposes.

The construction of the project, which includes two giant reservoirs as Moragahakanda and Kaluganga, are in progress beneath the Kunuckles Mountain Range.

According to Mahaweli Authority sources, the water capacity of Moragahakanda reservoir is four times bigger than that of the ancient Parakrama Samudraya in Polonnaruwa while the water capacity of Kaluganga reservoir is two times bigger than that of the Parakrama Samudraya.

The project will provide water for 81,422 hectares in the Dry Zone while it will provide industrial water supply to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee and Matale and Vavuniya districts. It is significant that both reservoirs will add 25 megawatte to the national grid after completing the proposed hydro power plants. Besides, the project will be a solution for flood control of low lying areas, especially in parts of Polonnaruwa district including the Somawathiya sanctuary which frequently goes underwater. Moreover, the project opens up new lands for agricultural and other settlements.

Both Moragahakanda and Kaluganga reservoirs, which utilise water of Amban Ganga and Kalu Ganga as the feeder rivers, are implemented by the Mahaweli Authority under the Mahaweli River Development Scheme. Both reservoirs will be linked to each other with a conveyance system consisting of two tunnels and transfer canals.

Vehicles Importers Association of Sri Lanka recently held its Business Conference - 2016 at Galadari Colombo under the patronage of the Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake.

The Conference paved the way for the vehicle importers to discuss their problems in detail.

Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure Harin Fernando, Deputy Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Ashok Abeysinghe, and the Chairman of the Association Sumith Meranchige were also present.

Effective regulation of media is a dire requisite for a sound democracy and Sri Lanka is seriously looking into this aspect in establishing a pofessional media culture in the country, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranawithana told an international conference in Islamabad yesterday (21).

01. Establishment of a state of the art Centralized data management system for the elections Commission (Document No - 06)


Computerization of data of the electors'register has started in 1995. It has been proposed to create an automated electors' register in 2006 and by further developing this it has been identified that it is suitable to establish a Centralized Data Management System using modern technology. It intends to prevent the registration in several places, to reduce the high cost of maintaining separate databases in district level and to affirm the security of data. Accordingly, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to establish the Centralized Data Management System, and to allocate the required funds within 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Anuradhapura North Water Supply Project (Document No - 13)

More Chronic Kidney Patients are reported than other districts in the island as 85% of people living in rural areas of the district obtain drinking water from unhealthy sources. Such patients as well as their dependents are highly affected. Hence it has become crucial to provide healthy drinking water through pipelines. The Wahalkada Water Supply Project which is to be implemented under the above project will benefit people living in Padawiya, Kebithigollewa, Horovpothana and Kahatagasdigiliya in the northern part of Anuradhapura. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into a loan agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency to obtain a concessionary loan of 23,137 million Yen (Approximately Rs. 32,169 million) to implement the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Proceed with the Local Government Enhancement project (Document No - 14)

The Asian Development Bank has agreed to provide an additional loan amount of US$ 60 million on the success of the above project. These funds are expected to be utilized in projects related to provide safe drinking water as a solution to the Chronic Kidney Disease, improvement of divisional infrastructure and preliminary services, expedition of restructuring process of local government authorities and improving capacity of the same which are the priority tasks of the government. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to enter into an agreement with the Asian Development Bank to obtain the said loan to proceed with the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Preparation of Budget 2017 (Document No - 20)

The Budget 2017 is expected to be prepared under a zero based budgeting creating a performance culture based on performance of public expenses. It aims to achieve the targets of creating million occupations, increase of income, rural economic development, affirmation of land ownership, which are declared as the midterm targets of the government and concerning on achieving 17 sustainable development goals of the UN that should be achieved by 2030. Budget 2017 expects to reinstate the discipline of public finance with the principles of 'transparency' and 'accountability'. It would be possible to confront with the challenges of attracting foreign investment on news trends of global economy, and expanding foreign trade. Improvement of the economic growth by increasing public income and through useful expenses is a priority of the government. A broad
strategy has been planned by the government to address short-term imbalances and midterm challenges. Accordingly, the Midterm Macroeconomic Aim is to bring the budget deficit to 3.5 as a percentage of the GDP and public debt rate to 68. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to prepare the budget 2017 to achieve an economic growth of 6% to maintain a budget deficit of 4.7% of the GDP and a minimum inflation and unemployment affirming a public investment of 5% of the GDP, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Relocation and improvement of Technical College in Anamaduwa (Document No - 21)

The Anamaduwa Technical College was established in 1993 under limited facilities in some buildings constructed under Gam Udawa programme. At present about 250 students are being enrolled annually to follow 13 training courses of NVQ 3, 4, and 5 levels. A gradual increase in applications for enrolment could be observed but due to lack of facilities including classrooms, work stations it is impossible to provide the opportunity of following courses for more students. Hence, it has been identified that it is suitable to relocate this Technical College to provide more opportunities for the youth in Anamaduwa area. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to relocate the Technical College in a land of 04 acres in Wadakkarawewa area adjacent to Chilaw – Nawagattegama main road with all necessary infrastructure, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Regulation of Beach Seining (Document No - 24)

The beach seining has contributed a 40% of the national fisheries production in 1950s but due to various reasons but at present it has been reduced. The method used in the period of smooth sea which needs high force of labour and it creates employment opportunities for coastal residents. However, as it catches all fish without any selection it is not considered as an environmental friendly method. Regulations were enforced on beach seining in 1984 and it has become a timely need to review them. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to appoint a Committee of Intellectuals to prepare a report with recommendations on beach seining for inquire into and resolve the issues faced by the beach seining, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. State Wesak Festival - 2017 (Document No - 25)

The Cabinet of Ministers has granted the approval to hold the State Wesak Festival in 2017 which marks the 2561st Buddhist Year at Sri Arahath Maliyadewa Raja Maha Viharaya in Wattarama and to declare the week which the Wesak Full Moon Day falls as the Wesak Week, and to implement various programmes in district and divisional level in line with the Wesak Festival.

08. Establishment of a Performing Arts Training Institution, affiliated to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, At Pallekele for the protection of traditional up-country dancing and cultural heritage (Document No - 26)

Up-country dancing has been recognized by the world for a long time and it is a pride to Sri Lankan identity and dignity. The lack of interest of youth to this traditional art has made a deficit in its performers. The Diyawadana Nilame of Sri Dalada Maligawa has made a proposal to establish a Performance Arts Training Institution to protect traditional dancing and cultural heritages with the view of encouraging, training and development and creating related employment. The Government of India has agreed to provide a grant of Rs. 120 million for this purpose. The proposal made by Hon. Dr. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddhasasana, to establish the above said institution at the premises of International Buddhist Centre, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Amend the existing regulations on standards of training, certification, and watch keeping for seafarers (STCW 1978) (Document No - 28)

Aforesaid regulations are published in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 1818/37 and dated 12.07.2013 by the Merchant Shipping Secretariat. The proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, Minister of Ports and Shipping, to amend the said regulations according to the guidance of International Maritime Organization and to suit present day needs, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Resettlement of all Internally Displaced Persons who resides in welfare camps (Document No - 29)

H.E. the President has emphasised the need of resettling all IDPs immediately. It is necessary to implement a priority housing project in this regard. At present 971 families reside in 31 welfare centres and 641 families out of them are landless families. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to implement an expedited housing project in this regard at a cost of Rs. 971 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Construction of an accommodation building at Kaluthara Police College (Document No - 30)

The Police College, Kaluthara undertakes training programmes for police officers covering all the police stations in the country. Many of its accommodation buildings are older than 100 years and are in decayed status raising an issue in providing accommodation for trainee officers. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to construct a new accommodation building for the Kaluthara Police College at a cost of Rs. 199.69 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Leadership training Programme for Technical, Vocational education and training centre managers in Singapore (Document No - 33)

The Temasek Foundation has agreed to provide a grant of 280,840 Singapore Dollars to conduct the above programme in Singapore for a period of two weeks.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training and the ITE Education Services in Singapore, which the programme is conducting, during the official visit of the Hon. Prime Minister in Singapore.

13. Monthly Wage Increment of Rs. 2,500 for plantation sector employees proposed by the government (Document No - 37)

The Rs. 2500 wage increment proposed for the private sector should also be applied for the employees in plantation companies. Considering the economical difficulties faced by provincial plantation companies due to the decrease of tea price in world market, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management has recommended to provide a financial concession to those companies for payment if the increment. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to issue treasury bonds to facilitate plantation companies to obtain loans from public banks through Sri Lanka Tea Board, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Technical assistance loan from the Asian Development Bank for the proposed transport project preparatory facility (Document No - 38)

Above projects expects to assist feasibility studies, detailed designs, and procurement documents preparation and implementation of transport projects. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to hold discussions with the Asian Development Bank to obtain a technical assistance loan of US$ 24.42 million for the above project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Obtaining a loan for the 3rd phase of the Central Expressway and the elevated road from Kelani Bridge to Rajagiriya (Document No - 39)

Above constructions are identified as priority development projects of the government. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Management has recommended obtaining loan assistance from the Tokyo – Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd for in this regard. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to proceed with its activities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Payment of compensation for houses damaged by explosion occurred in Salawa Ammunition dump in Sithawaka Divisional Secretary Division in Colombo District on 05-06- 2016 (Document No - 41)

The Government Valuation Department has completed the valuation of damages of houses and premises due to the explosion. The proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to expedite the payment of compensations based on the said valuation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Speech at the South Asian Diaspora Convention by Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe Prime Minister of Sri Lanka On Monday 18th July 2016, in Singapore

The situation in the University of Jaffna campus is entirely peaceful and arrangements have been made to start all academic activities very soon, said Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister Kaunaratna Paranavithana.

He said so after a special observation team of Ministers visited the Jaffna University campus yesterday (19) and held discussions with all relevant Government officials as well as student representatives. Disaster Management Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Prison Reforms and Rehabilitation Minister D M Swaminathan were also members of the Ministerial delegation who took part in the observation tour.

National radio will enter into a comprehensive media education arena accordingly, a media academy center will be established in Kothmale community radio station today. This center will come under the purview of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation. Minister of Parliamentary reforms and Mass media Gayantha Karunatilleke will participate as the chief guest at this occasion.

The Kothmala community radio service being the pioneer community radio service in the Mahaweli development network, will commence this media education programme in parallel with the Mahaweli development work plan.

This center will provide effective training to announcers and media personnel in the region. Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation has taken effective measures to make this center as a media school.

A restructured official website of SLBC will also be launched today. The web address is www.slbc.lk.

01. Formation of an Organization for Nation Development with Civil-Military Coordination (Document No - 09)


The knowledge and resources of the Tri Forces of Sri Lanka can be easily obtained in nation building, and they are ready to take responsibilities in nation building mechanism. Therefore, the proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defense, to establish an organization in this regard with civil-military coordination, for obtaining the contribution of tri forces with their resources, training and strength in national development and peace process, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Sri Lanka Sustainable Development Act (Document No - 10)

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to publish the Sri Lanka Sustainable Development Bill in gazette and present the same in parliament for approval, which was prepared with the view of promoting and implementing the Sri Lanka’s national policy and strategy on sustainable development, establishment of the Sustainable Development Council and making other provisions on other matters, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Granting a concessionary period and charges for the delay in applying for registration of transfer at the change of possession of motor vehicles (Document No - 15)

As vehicles are being used by new owners without registering the transfer for a long period, the government has lost a large amount of income and it has caused many difficulties to law enforcing agencies. A late fee was introduced by Motor Traffic (Fees) Regulations published in 2011 to minimize this trend, but it has not achieved its targets. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to grant a concessionary period of three months and a concession on the additional late fee, to encourage vehicle owners to register transfers of motor vehicles, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Take over the Vocational Training Centre situated in Nilaweli, Eastern Province to the Department of Divi Neguma Development (Document No - 16)

The Department of Divineguma Development implements various training programs and workshop related to vocational training through training centers of the department and Rural Development Training and Research Institute in Borella. However, training programs for beneficiaries in Northern and Eastern Provinces are held in Colombo and it has caused difficulties for participants as well as the department on providing accommodation for them. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. S.B Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to take over the above mentioned training centre in Gopalapuram area in Nilaweli of the Trincomalee District, to the department paying the government’s assessed value of Rs. 126 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Infrastructure Development in Universities of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sabaragamuwa, Jaffna, Kelaniya, Colombo, Peradeniya, Uva Wellassa and Eastern University. (Document No - 19)

It has been planned to increase annually the students entered in universities for following degree causes in various streams by 5% and to facilitate the above objective it has been planned to improve infrastructures of above universities and to establish Faculties of Technology in Universities of Uva Wellassa, Sabaragamuwa and Eastern University. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to begin the above activities using Rs. 1,369 million allocated for 2016 and to allocate relevant funds for 2017 and 2018 through the General Treasury, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Implementation of the Greater Colombo Water and Waste Water Management Improvement Program Tranche -3 (Document No - 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to sign a loan agreement between the government of Sri Lanka and the European Investment Bank, for implementation of the above program at a cost of 156 million euro, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Obtaining Technical Cooperation Grant of 13 million euro form the Federal Republic of Germany (Document No - 21)

The Federal Republic of Germany has agreed to provide the above grant during the H.E. the President’s visit to Germany in February 2016 for implementation of the 4 projects, which are, the Project of National Park and Buffer Zone Management in Wilpattu, Vocational Training in the North and East of Sri Lanka Project, Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Sector Development in Sri Lanka Project, the project for Facilitating Initiatives for Social Cohesion and Transformation. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to enter into an agreement for obtaining the above grant, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Establishment of a National Payment Platform for Digital Commerce and Ease of Digital Transactions (Document No - 22)

The most convenient method used by public in obtaining goods and services, is the international credit card such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. However, various reasons including its charges have discouraged the use of credit cards by majority of the public. Government institutions such as Sri Lanka Customs, Department of Inland Revenue, Department of Excise and other businessmen are less interested in using this method as the charges are increased according to the value of the transaction. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to establish the National Payment Platform to facilitate digital commerce and digital transactions as proposed by the Committee of Senior Officials as per the recommendations made by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Finance, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Relocation of Welikada Prison (Document No - 26)

Many of prisons in Sri Lanka are located in centers of towns and in lands of high economic value. Under the program of relocating prisons of the country, it has been proposed to relocate Welikada prison and its sub sections. The Welikada Prison Complex is comprised of four sections, and the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to acquire the land belongs to B.C.C Lanka Company near the Superior Courts Complex for establishment of the remand prison, which the suspects that should be presented before court frequently are being detained, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Allocation of funds for development of rural infrastructure facilities and livelihood development (Document No - 30)

The 2016 budget has allocated Rs. 13.3 billion for the Rural Infrastructure Development Program and it is currently being implemented. The proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to implement a pilot project for development of infrastructure and livelihood in Anuradhapura, Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa Districts aiming communities that are not covered by various infrastructure development projects, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Scholarship fund for the subject stream of technology (Document No - 33)

The above fund established for students from low income families that are following the Technology stream, and it has received a grant of Rs. 100 million from the Asian Development Bank. The program is implemented by the Public Trustee Department. However, it has no achieved its expected objectives as a large portion of the money is spent in administrative tasks. The proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to take over the money credited to the Public Trustee Department to the Ministry of Education and to allocate annual funds under a special vote in the General Treasury for continuation of the program, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Construction of a new four storied building for the District Secretariat, Polonnaruwa (Document No - 40)

The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to award the contract for first phase of constructions of the above building to the lowest substantially responsive bidder as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Construction of Batticaloa District Secretariat Complex (Document No - 41)

The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to award the contract for construction of a three storied building complex to the lowest substantially responsive bidder as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Construction of a new five storied building for the District Secretariat, Matale (Document No - 42)

The proposal made by Hon. Vajira Abeywardana, Minister of Home Affairs, to award the contract for construction of a five storied building complex to the lowest substantially responsive bidder as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Mid-year fiscal Position Report 2016 (Document No - 58)

The Minister of Finance is required to release a Mid-Year Fiscal Position Report to the public by 30 th June of every financial year and thereafter to table in parliament as stipulated in section 10 of the Fiscal Management (Responsibility) Act No. 03 of 2003. The proposal made by Ravi Karunanayake, the Minister of Finance, to table the Mid-Year Fiscal Position Report 2016 in the parliament, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers and the following facts in the report were considered.

• The Sri Lankan economy amidst of many domestic and international challenges has succeeded in achieving an economic growth of 5.5% in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 4.4% growth in the first quarter of 2015.
• The income of the relevant period has increased from 19.5% in 2016 from 2015.

• The inflation could be maintained further in single digit level.
• Although the overall export income has decreased from 4.5% withinternational market instabilities, the flow of foreign exchange has increased through foreign workers remittances and tourism, and the import expenditure on food, petroleum products, and transport equipment has decreased causing a reduce of 2.4% of the trade deficit in first four months of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015.

16. Obtaining financial assistance for implementation of Kelani Right Bank Water Supply Project Phase II (Document No - 60)

The cabinet has already approved the above project which includes, construction of a new water treatment plant with a capacity of 180,000 cubic meters to improve the capacity of Kelani Right Bank Water Treatment Plant, construction of main pipelines to distribute refined water, construction of a 25 km long water supply path, construction of Vii Oya reservoir and supply and installation of rubber balloons as a sea water cover. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to issue a treasury guarantee to obtain an amount of rupees similar to 13 million euro from a domestic bank and a loan facility of Rs. 10 billion, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Annual Bus Fare Revision - 2016 (Document No - 61)

The Committee of Intellectuals appointed to review the Bus Fares Revision policy prepared in 2002 has made their recommendations after consultation with Bus Associations and Passenger Associations. The Committee has recommended an increase of 6% it has to be implemented formally through the National Transport Commission. Therefore, Cabinet of Ministers approved to implement the bus fares revision from 01st August 2016.

18. Price Control for essential Food Commodities (Document No - 64)

Prices of essential food commodities may vary from district to district depending on the transport expenses and number of intermediaries. But the consumers have recently believed that this has occurred due to the increased VAT. Although VAT is applicable to some consumer goods, essential food commodities such as rice, sugar, dhal, big onion, potatoes, red onion, milk powder, wheat flour, dried chilies, green gram, chick peas, canned fish, chicken, sprats and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, it has been observed that essential food commodities are being sold by merchants in a high price than Sathosa outlets. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to publish in gazette 15 selected essential food commodities according to provisions in Consumer Affairs Authority Act, and to determine their maximum retail price by the Cabinet Subcommittee on Cost of Living, and to obtain the service of 200 Graduate Trainees to the Consumer Affairs Authority and the service of security forces when necessary to regulate this price control, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Memorandum of understanding between board of investment of Sri Lanka and Surbana Jurong, Singapore to establish a consultancy company (Document No - 65)

The government has identified the need for attracting more investments for making Sri Lanka an attractive investment destination by accurate assessment of investment potentialities of Sri Lanka. It has been identified that establishment of a government owned consultancy company is suitable to gain its entire benefits. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to sign a MoU between the BoI, Sri Lanka and the Surbana Jurong company of Singapore which provides service in a wide range of fields including City planning and designing, development management, project management, and facilities management, for establishment of the said company, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera welcomed Assistant Secretaries of State Nisha Biswal and Tom Malinowski to the island, last evening.

Biswal, the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Malinowski, the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor are in Sri Lanka on an official visit, and are expected to engage with government officials and civil society during their stay.

Foreign Minister Samaraweera in his remarks to the media said: “We have seen a series of visits from the United States since January last year. This included the Cabinet-level visits of Secretary of State John Kerry, and Ambassador Samantha Power. These high-level visits, combined with the hard work of Assistant Secretary Biswal and Assistant Secretary Malinowski, and others including our respective Ambassadors in the United States and in Sri Lanka, we have succeeded in consolidating relations between our two countries.”

“It was the result of all this hard work that saw our two countries set up a ‘Partnership Dialogue’ between the United States and Sri Lanka, which met for the first time in Washington DC in February this year,” he said. “At our meeting today, we discussed a range of issues of bilateral importance including economic cooperation; governance, development cooperation, people-to-people ties; and security cooperation. We also discussed matters pertaining to reconciliation in Sri Lanka; as well as international and regional issues and events that impact on our countries.”

“Apart from discussing ways of making our partnership stronger, including enhancing bilateral trade and investment, we also discussed enhancing maritime cooperation and Sri Lanka’s participation in the ‘Our Oceans’ Conference aimed at preservation of Oceans, to be held in September, in Washington DC,” the Foreign Minister said.

“We also discussed the importance of providing an economic peace dividend for the people of Sri Lanka as we progress in the process of reconciliation,” he said.

Addressing the media, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Malinowski praised Sri Lanka for being an example of unity and cohesion, during a time of global upheaval. “The people of Sri Lanka chose a government that seeks to serve all of its people, rather than setting them against each other,“ he said.

He also praised the work of the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe administration and endorsed the establishment of the Office of Missing Persons, the drafting a new Constitution, the ratification of the Convention on Disappearances and the President’s directive on arrests under the Prevention of Torture Act.

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal will arrive in Sri Lanka this week.

Deputy Assistant Secretary for South Asia, Manpreet Singh Anand, will accompany her.

She is expected to meet with senior Sri Lankan government officials, political leaders, and civil society representatives for talks on economic cooperation, democratic governance and reconciliation.

Certificate Awarding Ceremony of the “PILIBIMBU 2016” photographic exhibition was held recently at BMICH under the patronage of the Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake.

The exhibition was organized by the Photographic Art Society of the Ananda College Colombo parallel to its 70th Anniversary.

The best performances of the exhibition were felicitated by the Minister Karunathilake by handing over them the certificates and awards.

A team of journalists from the Northern Province called on the President Maithripala Sirisena and the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (7th July) at the Parliamentary premises. Joining the occasion were Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake, Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranawithane, Secretary to the Ministry Nimal Bopage, and the Director General of Government Information Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya. According to the Secretary Nimal Bopage, the journalists arrived at Colombo as the second step of the ‘Thalpathai-Panhidai’ reconciliation tour recently participated by the journalists from South. The 54-Nothern journalist team started their tour on 6th July and will conclude tomorrow (9th July). During the meeting; they discussed their difficulties and problem in detail with the President and the Prime Minister. Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake hosted a dinner for the visiting journalists on Wednesday at the Sri Lanka Foundation. They will leave for Jaffna tomorrow after visiting Colombo, Galle, and Kataragama.

01. E-Motoring Project – Department of Motor Traffic (Document No - 09)


Above project is expected to be implemented under the three aspects of preparation of an electronic file management system, improvement of the currently used vehicle registration system and database, and improvement of the communication network of the Department of Motor Traffic. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to implement the above project as a build, operate and transfer project as recommended by the Ministerial Committee on Economic Management, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Proposals on steps to be taken regarding damages on houses and business places of residents caused by the explosion in Salawa Army Ammunition dump (Document No - 11)

Explosion occurred at Salawa Army Ammunition Dump has not caused any civilian death, but has damaged movable and immovable properties in 12 Grama Niladhari Divisions around the camp. According to the recommendations made by the committee appointed under the chairmanship of Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Science, Technology and Research, to review and make recommendations on paying compensation to effected, the Cabinet has decided to provide relevant reliefs. Accordingly, for families whose houses or business places have been damaged Rs. 50,000/- is being paid until they are resettled in their residences, and currently about 400 families receive the payment of Rs. 50,000/-. The proposal made by Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Minister of Disaster Management, to pay a monthly allowance of Rs. 50,000/- for others who could not resettle in their houses and accelerate the payment of compensations to movable properties according to the recommendations of the relevant Assessing Committees, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
The Cabinet has also decided to advise relevant parties to accelerate the relief activities for the residents in Western Province including Kolonnawa area, which was recently affected by the floods.

03. Construction of an Indigenous Medical Research Hospital and Herbal Garden (Document No - 13)

A considerable trend can be observed in Sri Lankans of taking indigenous and ayurvedic treatments. As the ancestral indigenous medicine is a valuable gift that should be given to the future generations, the government has taken steps to conserve and develop the indigenous medicine. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. (Dr.) Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to establish an Indigenous Medical Research Hospital and Herbal Garden adjacent to the Vedagama Model Village in Dompe Divisional Secretary Division, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Improvement of the Storm water Drainage within Western Megapolis Region (Document No - 19)

The area of the Western Province is only 5.7% of the island, but its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product exceeds 50% and acts as the important industrial, commercial and administrative centre of Sri Lanka. As 5 main river valleys are situated in the Western Province, it confronts constant floods, and therefore it is important to develop the storm water drainage in the Western Megapolis Region in developing it to the international standards. About 30% of the Weras Ganga Storm Water Drainage and Environment Improvement Project have been completed. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to implement 08 projects in this regard immediately including construction of two tunnels for drainage storm water to the sea and two pump houses to pump storm water to the sea, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Restructuring of Tea Shakthi Fund (Document No - 20)

The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to restructure the Tea Shakthi Fund as recommended by the Committee of Officials appointed in this regard and to improve the management of 12 factories owned by the Tea Shakthi Fund under the direct supervision of the ministry, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Establishment of the "Engineering Council" to regulate the Profession of Engineering in Sri Lanka by registering Engineering Practitioners (Document No - 22)

Engineering professionals, who have qualified in Sri Lanka and overseas in various institutions, are experienced in various fields according to standard and level of the courses they have followed, and are engaged in various engineering tasks.
However, an acknowledge method is not followed such as in medical and legal fields for registering and issuing licences for engineering practitioners. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Renewable Energy and Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to establish the Engineering Council which is responsible for maintaining professional status and regulating engineers, and to publish in the gazette the Engineering Council, Sri Lanka Bill for enacting provisions for registration of engineers and related tasks and to present the same in parliament for approval, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Holding United Nations Vesak Day Celebrations in Sri Lanka – 2017 (Document No - 23)

Prof. Gunapala Malalasekara had proposed that the Vesak Day should be celebrated internationally throughout the world in 1950 during the World Buddhist Congress held in Sri Lanka, and later in 1999 the proposal made to the United Nations General Assembly by Hon. Lakshman Kadiragamar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, was adopted and the tradition of celebration of the International Vesak Day was accepted. In 2016, the celebration was held in Thailand. The joint proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Hon.Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddha Sasana, to hold the United Nations Vesak Day Celebrations and the Conference 2017 in Sri Lanka in May 2017 and to appoint a Committee to make necessary arrangements to in this regard, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure Act No. 15 of 1979 (Right of detainees for access to legal counsel) (Document No - 24)

The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to publish in the gazette and present in the parliament the drafted Code of Criminal Procedures (Amendment) Act, for enacting provisions enabling a detainee to obtain the service of a desired legal counsel by his expenditure, before presenting before a Magistrate, and to provide that service through a legal counsel of the Legal Aid Commission, for any detainee who cannot afford the expense, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Consolidation of Core Legislation (Document No - 25)

Legislations enacted in the past have amended frequently and understanding such laws have become a complex and difficult task. As a solution the Ministry of Justice will consolidate five (05) core legislations and redrafted in Sinhala, Tamil and English with the assistance of United Nations Development Programme. When considering Evidence Ordinance, Criminal Procedure Code and the Penal Code, they include many words and declarations that have been outdated and they could be misunderstood by the public. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to substitute or revise such terms in those legislations to suit the present linguistic context, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Amendment to Assistance to and protection of victims of crime and witnesses act no. 04 of 2015 (Document No - 26)

The above act was brought into operation on 16th May 2016. There have been requests to give witnesses from overseas under this act. Accordingly it has been decided to amend the above act enabling victims and witnesses to give evidences from outside the country through audio visual media, without being present at the courts. Such evidences may be given at a Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission in the respective country and provisions should be enacted to protect the freedom of witnesses and prevent any influence. The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to draft amendments to the above act on the above purposes, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Enforcement of new regulations in terms of the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (Document No - 28)

Common and distinct laws and regulations were introduced for safety of life at sea that should be followed in international merchant shipping affairs by the above convention in 1974 by the International Maritime Organization. All member states have agreed to follow these regulations. Accordingly, a certificate that denote the gross weight of all containers should be provided with the view of improving the protection of container ships, maintaining the stability/balance of the ship storing containers in due manner and minimizing the environmental impact. Currently the gross weight is stated in documents but a certificate is not issued. Hence, legislations which were made with the consultation of all parties by the Merchant Shipping Secretariat, should be drafted through the Legal Draftsman to issue licence for Container Weight Verifiers and Container Transporters. The proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, Minister of Ports and Shipping, to draft above legislations and thereafter publish in the gazette and present in the parliament for approval, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Resettlement of Protracted Internally Displaced Persons in the Northern Province (Document No - 32)

IDPs were seen since the 1980s due to the conflict situation. These include Tamil as well as Sinhala and Muslim families in the Northern Province. After the end of the conflict these IDPs began to return to their homeland but with lack of infrastructure the process was not successful. Muslim and Sinhala IDP families need 16,120 and 5,543 houses respectively. Being IDPs their political rights including the right to vote were affected, and they face difficulties in accessing services rendered by the Divisional Secretariat, registration of Births and Deaths as well as enrolling children for schools. Accordingly the Cabinet approved to appoint a Task Force in this regard with the Co-Chairmanship of the Ministers of Industry and Commerce and Provincial Councils and Local Government and to proceed according to its recommendations.

13. Development Projects on Rehabilitation and Resettlement - 2016 - Development Projects implemented for the resettled families and returnee refugees in the Northern, Eastern Provinces and Former Threatened Villages (Document No - 33)

A special budgetary provision of Rs. 14 billion was allocated by budget proposals 2016. Accordingly, many projects including construction of new houses, renovation of damaged houses, provision of sanitary facilities, providing safe drinking water, provision of livelihood assistance, rehabilitation of roads, and improvement of infrastructure, were implemented under the Ministry of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs in 2016. The above information presented by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, was noted by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Creating a special Head in Annual Budget Estimates for the effective implementation of the Official Language Policy (Document No - 34)

The Constitution of Sri Lanka has accepted Sinhala and Tamil as official languages and has affirm the right of obtaining services from any public institution in the desired official language. Accordingly, all public institutions are bound to render services in both official languages. The proposal made by Hon. Mano Ganeshan, Minister of National Coexistence, Dialogue and Official Languages, to create a special head in budget estimates of each ministry from 2017 to implement the Official Languages Policy with the view of facilitating citizens to obtain services in their desired language at 2020, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Leasing of the old Chancery Building of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. (Document No - 37)

The above building which the Embassy of Sri Lanka was located earlier is vacant at present and it has been observed that it could be used in economically beneficial manner. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to appoint a Technical Evaluation Committee Chaired by the Sri Lankan Ambassador for consultation on regulations and conditions for leasing the building and to proceed with relevant activities, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Kaduruwela Town Expansion Project – Phase I (Document No - 42)

Economic activities in Kaduruwela area have increased after the end of war. As a result it has confronted with issues such as traffic congestion, lack of parking facilities, as well as environmental and social issues due to unplanned constructions. The Urban Development Authority has planned the above project as a solution to these problems and a number of subprojects are to be implemented.
Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to award activities of the first phase of this project such as planning, development of lands, preparing the drainage system, and land filling to the Land Reclamation and Development Corporation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Maintaining a pool of elephants consisting of about 35 tuskers/male Elephants/female elephants, under the Zoological Department to make them participated in cultural activities (Document No - 50)

The perahera culture of Sri Lanka has a great history and has attracted the world's attention. It has been observed that it is essential to use elephants in this perahera to maintain its pride and devoutness. When several cultural activities are held together with the Dalada Perahera, number of elephants is insufficient. Therefore, a pool of about 35 elephants is proposed to be established under the Zoological Department with elephants obtained from Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and from Udawalawa Eth Athuru Sevana, with the objective of training for perahera purposes. The proposal made by Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, on the above matter, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Statement by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, MP , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka , 32nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Geneva, 29 June 2016

Mr. President
High Commissioner for Human Rights
Excellencies
Distinguished delegates

At the 30th Session of this Council last October, Sri Lanka, by co-sponsoring the Resolution 30/1, ‘Promoting Reconciliation and Accountability in Sri Lanka’, broke away from the years of disengagement, self-isolation, and confrontation that preceded the election of President Maithripala Sirisena in January 2015.

Sri Lanka, hailed at Independence in 1948 as a potential “Switzerland of the east”, was now ready to come to terms with the many tragedies we have had to face as a nation in the past, and move forward as a brave new country in order to harness the peace and prosperity that our people truly deserve.

President Sirisena, in his Address to the Nation on the 68th Independence Day anniversary on 4th February this year, reiterated his commitment to fulfil the provisions of Resolution 30/1, in working out the contours of a new Sri Lanka.

He said that Sri Lanka is committed to implement the Resolution to protect the dignity of our State, our People and our Security Forces and that we will implement the proposals with patience, discipline and restraint. It will be freedom, democracy and reconciliation that will be reinforced by implementing the provisions of the resolution.

When Sri Lanka’s unity Government marks its first year in office in August this year, there will be many achievements to look back on, with a certain sense of satisfaction.

While consolidating many of the democratic changes achieved within the first 100 days, we have begun taking action on all fronts related to strengthening good governance and the rule of law; promoting and protecting human rights; fostering reconciliation; and achieving economic development; while engaging and working closely with the international community in a constructive manner that benefits the people of our country:

-In order to ensure that the setting up of the reconciliation mechanisms is done effectively, a Secretariat for Coordinating the Reconciliation Mechanisms has been set up under the Office of the Prime Minister;

The Government recognises that, in order for the transitional justice process to be effective in achieving the desired objectives, the necessary mechanisms should be properly sequenced, integrated and coordinated. Some have started raising alarm bells that sequencing of mechanisms is a delay tactic or means to omit the component of justice. This is incorrect. The Secretariat for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms is already consulting experts and is working on obtaining the required training and capacity-building for the relevant mechanisms – investigating techniques, forensic expertise, prosecutorial strategies – so that when the designs are in place, following the Consultation Process, the required expertise for the mechanisms will also be in place;

-A Task Force consisting entirely of civil society representatives has been appointed to seek the views of the public that will inform the designing of the truth-seeking, justice, accountability and reparations mechanisms;

-The task of working on the wider issues of reconciliation aimed at achieving non-recurrence is being coordinated by the Office of National Unity and Reconciliation which comes under the purview of the President, and is led by former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga;

-The draft Bill approved by Cabinet to establish a Permanent and Independent Office on Missing Persons, which is an essential component of the truth-seeking process and the first mechanism in the transitional justice programme, has already been gazetted and included in the order paper of Parliament. This, to us, is a milestone in Sri Lanka’s reconciliation process;

-A Bill to amend the Registration of Deaths (Temporary Provisions) Act No 19 of 2010 to enable the issuance of Certificates of Absence in respect of Missing Persons was approved by Cabinet and gazetted earlier this month. This too will be tabled in Parliament to be taken up in July;

-The International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance was ratified and the draft legislation to give effect to the provisions of the Convention will be presented to the Cabinet in July, for gazetting and presentation to Parliament;

-A ‘National Policy on Durable Solutions for Conflict Affected Displacement’ has been evolved through wide consultations, and with technical support from the UN. The Policy is presently before Cabinet for approval, and has been released to the public as well;

-A Committee is now putting the final touches to the first draft of the new counter-terrorism legislation that will replace the much criticised and much abused Prevention of Terrorism Act, in keeping with Sri Lanka's commitment and obligations to human rights and countering terrorism. Technical assistance for this purpose has been sought from the UN Counter-terrorism Committee Executive Directorate;

-Despite the Government maintaining a zero tolerance policy on torture, its incidence has not ceased, although reduced. We are seized of the seriousness of the issue and have also sought the assistance of the National Human Rights and Police Commissions in Sri Lanka to create greater public awareness and initiate the necessary public discourse required, in addition to training programmes for the Police and other measures aimed at combating and eliminating torture including addressing the need for prosecution and conviction;

-A Cabinet approved Inter-Ministerial Committee has been tasked with drafting the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2017-2021;

-Last week the military released another 701 acres of land to the District Secretary of Jaffna, out of which, 201.3 acres were handed over to their original owners on 25th June. The Government has clearly instructed the military that all the land obtained from civilians must be released latest by 2018, and that the owners of whatever land that may be required for national installations or development purposes would be fully compensated.

-The three principle pillars on which the architecture of the new Sri Lanka is built, are democracy, development and reconciliation. The Government is also working towards a new Constitution for Sri Lanka. This Constitution, while entrenching the democratic gains we have achieved during the last year, will also be a celebration of Sri Lanka’s diversity as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multi-lingual country that will guarantee equal rights, justice and dignity for all, and address some of the issues that have plagued us since Independence and has stood in the way of our unity as a nation. The Public Representations Committee tasked with seeking the views of the public for the new Constitution has just completed its work, and their Report has been handed over to the Government;

-Sri Lanka is also now open to the world and engages with the international community with courage and confidence. The Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance, the Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers and the Special Rapporteur against Torture visited and shared with us their observations, which are being acted upon. The Special Rapporteur on the Promotion of Truth, Justice, Reparations and Guarantees of Non-recurrence visited us thrice in one year, in a technical-advisory capacity. We were also pleased to receive you, High Commissioner, in February; and we are hopeful that Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-moon will visit us this year as well.

We invite all who are interested in Sri Lanka's progress to visit us, including all those who criticise us, fairly or unfairly. We are ready and willing to accept praise as well as criticism in the correct spirit, and use both for reflection and improvement.

One of our weaknesses has been our failure to communicate our strategies and plans, effectively. We are already planning on starting a communication drive to address this essential requirement.

Mr. President,

Reconciliation does not happen at once, overnight. It requires effort, hard work, commitment, and careful, continuous, concrete action. It is not an end that can be reached where no further work is required. It is not a box that can be ticked as achieved. It is a journey that requires constant striving. A commitment towards which our nation should be bound across generations, and a central tenet of governance, because the price to pay if we falter, is not one our nation can endure once again after over thirty years of bloodshed that has spared no one.

I would say that we are following what the ancient Romans would have called, a policy of festina lente – making haste slowly. This may make it seem for some that the progress we are making is too fast, and too slow for others.

What we have achieved so far since January 2015 may seem like 'baby steps' for some, but for us they are 'giant leaps'. Some alleged that we are being optimistic, upbeat and hopeful. I must say that we are. How else do we work towards achieving our objectives? What is important is that our optimism is not based on delusion. It is based on the actual results of what we have managed to achieve so far, and the knowledge that our Government is working on a comprehensive strategy that will enable us to pursue different processes in a coordinated, integrated and appropriately sequenced manner.

While dealing with the low-hanging fruit immediately, we have strategies and plans to deal with the more serious and controversial issue of setting up a judicial mechanism with international assistance. Sri Lanka is no stranger to international assistance and participation with many investigative and forensic experts having worked with us in the past. Of course, there are varying views on the nature, level and role of international participation. Divergent views are indicative of a healthy democracy and consultative process. Despite such divergent views, however, I can assure you that the mechanism that is finally set up will be one which has the confidence of the stakeholders, especially the victims, with fair trial and due process guarantees.

The road ahead is certainly challenging, but it is powered by our determination and resolve to achieve reconciliation. There are some who doubt our sincerity to do so, and also a few who want us to fail. For those of our friends who are genuinely concerned, and want Sri Lanka to succeed, every delayed second seems to appear as an eternity, and they fear that the Government has lost its way and the political will to succeed. Then there are others who are misinformed and misled and therefore, disbelieve or are unaware of the achievements so far. And of course there are those who pray that we won’t succeed. These are the forces of extremism on both sides of the divide, who, in league with the ghosts of the past, wait to rejoice to see Sri Lanka fail to succeed in its journey of reconciliation. For the extremists of course I have nothing to say, but to all the others, I wish to say that the Government is united and firm in its commitment to achieve reconciliation, development and ensure non-recurrence. Let us have the benefit of your doubts in order to take forward this extremely challenging yet essential process for our nation.

As I mentioned before, Sri Lanka is open to the world, and I invite all our friends to come and see what we have done, and assist us in this historic journey.

When I come back here in March next year, the contours of the new Sri Lanka we aspire to build, I believe, will be far clearer.

We appreciate greatly, Mr. President, the role of those who are helping Sri Lanka in this challenging journey in numerous ways – through advice, through technical assistance, through resources and investment. We are also deeply appreciative of the support of the High Commissioner and his Office. We note that the High Commissioner's Report acknowledges our achievements. We appreciate the observations made which help us reflect, and take action to address areas of concern, and we look forward to continue to work in close cooperation with the international community in our journey towards economic and social progress, reconciliation, and achieving durable peace for our people. I urge all of you to support our journey with patience and perseverance.

Thank you.

New Governor of the Central Bank Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy received his letter of appointment from the President Maithripala Sirisena this morning.

President Sirisena took the decision to appoint Dr. Coomaraswami the Governor of the CBSL after the discussions held with the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday (2nd July). 

Dr. Coomaraswamy, 66, is a Sri Lankan economist. Educated at the Royal College, Colombo and at Harrow School in England, Dr. Coomaraswamy obtained his undergraduate degree at Cambridge University and obtained his Doctorate at the University of Sussex.

Joining the Central Bank of Sri Lanka in 1973 he served in the Economic Research, Statistics and Bank Supervision Divisions as a staff officer till 1989. From 1981 to 1989 he was seconded to the Ministry of Finance and Planning. He worked for the Commonwealth Secretariat from 1990–2008, in the posts of Director, Economic Affairs Division and Deputy-Director, Secretary-General's Office and was brought back to the Commonwealth Secretariat to head the Social Transformation Programme Division, as Interim Director.

The Independent Television Network is now equipped with a full High Definition Studio Complex. The opening of this HD television studio Complex with the highest clarity for the first time in the local electronic communication history took place under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe. Several Parliamentarians were present at the opening of this Studio Complex at the ITN Head Office premises.

On arrival at the Wickremasinghepura ITN Head Office premises, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, Ministers Gayantha Karunatilake and Akila Viraj Kariyawasam and Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana were accorded a very warm welcome. Thereafter they were accompanied to the building housing the Studio Complex bythe Senior Management including Acting Chairman Saman Athaudahetti. ITN staff members too joined in greeting the group of visitors including the Prime Minister.
After unveiling the plague, the Prime Minister, adding a new page in the local television history, declared open the new Studio Complex.
Thereafter Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe joined in the first programme telecast from the full HD Studio Complex. The programme was handled by Senior media personality Chandana Tilakeratne.
Expressing his views during this programme, Premier Wickremasinghe said that ITN was launched with local knowledge and experiences. Rupavahini was started with Japanese knowledge. As such he said that he is glad that ITN is doing its utmost to move forward with local knowledge. The Prime Minister pointed out that they had taken several initiatives to develop the television media.
At the same time there was also a period in which they were not in power. Some utilized the television media not on behalf of the people but for their benefit. As such it was not necessary as 24 hours of the day gave information of them. As such an independent programme was necessary to develop the television media and the film industry.
It was followed by a live telecast of a musical show aired from the full HD Studio Complex. This is the first time that a Full HD Studio Complex has been established by a local TV Channel. This Studio Complex is also an indelible experience within the ITN’s 37-year-old history. Noteworthy is the full contribution made by the Engineers of the institution for the construction of of this Full HD Studio.
The complex which has a floor space of 2600 square feet is equipped with a fully automatic lighting system. The expenditure incurred on this automatic lighting network was nearly 100 million rupees.
The Studio is equipped with four telelvision digital cameras of high clarity and the expenditure incurred on it was 50 million rupees. The studio also has the most modern digital control equipment, a computer recording network and a control room which is equipped with a large number of modern machines. The total cost of the control room is 200 million rupees. The Prime Minister today opened this studio complex established under the first stage.
In addition construction of two more control rooms, a graphic design division, a computerized editing section, a library equipped with modern facilities and a new auditorium has already been completed under the second stage. The expenditure incurred on the entire constructions was 600 million rupees. Thus ITN now enjoys the facilities of a full HD Studio complex, which had been a longfelt need.
The opening of the new studio now gives ITN an opportunity to endow to the viewers, productions with high technology. ITN now also has the opportunity of bringing to viewers, new reality programmes, musical programmes and quiz competitions.
It should be mentioned that the ability for ITN which is considered as a leading television channel in Sri Lanka and also to establish a studio with advanced facilities and technology is a victory achieved due to the strength of its viewers.

Government is looking at the potential to establish an International Media Training Academy in Sri Lanka with foreign assistance.

According to the Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake, strengthening of the Mass Media sector in the country is significantly important in terms of protecting the democracy.

“We identified four steps that should be taken to strengthen the media sector. Professional journalism, law, regulations and policies, media industry, technical richness are areas important in strengthening the media as a free, independent, and professional sector,” the minister added.

A research report on media compiled by the Mass Media Ministry with recommendations was presented to Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. These recommendation are expected to be implemented soon. Meanwhile, an Independent Media Commission will be established to regulate both the print and electronic media.

Minister further pointed out that the government has also paid attention to introduce a minimum salary to media personnel, who are currently working for low salaries.

President Maithripala Sirisena is expected to appoint the new Governor of the Central Bank soon.

According to State Minister of Finance Lakshman Yapa Abeywardhena the newly appointed Governor will be a well-experienced and a moret suitable person for the position.

The appointment will be valid for a period of one year

Government plans to recruit 8,000 Information Officers for 4,000 government institutions to be established under the Right to Information Act.

Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake presented the RTI bill to the Parliament on 24th March. Parliament passed it unanimously on 23rd June.

According to the Minister Karunathilake, as the second the step the government has to appoint the Information Commission, appoint new officers, train them, and to absorb them with the relevant institutions, and to compile the necessary documents within six months following the regulations of the Act.

“The government will take all possible action to protect the democracy of the country”, said Minister who assured to take necessary action as soon as possible.

01. Memorandum of Understanding between Government of Singapore and the Government of Sri Lanka on cooperation in area of capacity building of government officials (Document No - 07)


The Government of Singapore has awarded a five-day training program titled ‘Public Sector Leadership Program for Senior Officials from Sri Lanka’ which is to be held at the Civil Service College, Singapore. It has been proposed to run this program in two batches of 35 participants each. The joint proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Hon. Ranjith Maddumabandara, Minister of Public Administration and Management, to enter into a MoU with the government of Singapore in the above field during the visit of the Hon. Prime Minister to Singapore scheduled for next month, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Continuation of the Anti-corruption Committee Secretariat (ACCS) (Document No - 08)

The ACCS was established on a decision made by the Cabinet in 2015 to receive and facilitate complaints on serious fraud and corruption. It has been proposed to restructure the anti-corruption institutional structure of the country and to establish a fully-powered Serious Fraud Office which is similar to the Serious Frauds Office in UK. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to continue the operations of the ACCS until a new institutional structure is introduced, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Annual Bus Fares Revision - 2016 (Document No - 15)

The authority of revising bus fares based on relevant criteria with ideas of private bus owners associations has been granted to the National Transport Commission and a policy for revision of bus fares was prepared and implemented by the said commission in 2002. Bus Owners Associations have claimed that the policies and criteria on bus fares revision should be amended to suit present day needs. Considering the request, the proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to appoint a Committee of Intellectuals to review policies and criteria made in 2002 with the view of providing a better public transportation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Establishment of a Sri Lankan Consulate General Office in Nicosia, Cyprus (Document No - 16)

Diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Cyprus were established in 1963 and the Ambassador of Rome has been concurrently accredited to Cyprus. In addition, the Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Nicosia is attending to essential consular and labor issues in Cyprus at present. With the view of promoting employment opportunities and to ensure the welfare needs of about 20000 to 25000 migrant workers in Cyprus, there is a need to establish a Career Consulate General Office in Nicosia. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to establish a Consulate General Office in Nicosia Cyprus to promote trade, investment, employment and educational opportunities and to ensure the welfare of migrant employees, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Amendment of the Sri Lanka Social Security Board act (Document No - 18)

The main role of the Social Security Board established under the Sri Lanka Social Security Board Act No. 17 of 1996 is to establish the pension and social security benefits schemes for those who are engaged in self employment. Therefore, such schemes are implemented by the above board and persons of 18-59 ages can contribute in them. By 31.03.2016 there were 497,102 contributory members and 22,973 pensioners who obtain a monthly pension. The proposal made by Hon. S.B Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to amend the above act to include private sector employees, professionals, artistes, indigenous medical practitioners, foreign employees, persons engaged in agricultural and fishing activities as contributory members and to amend the age limit of obtaining membership, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Introducing ‘After working hours cardio-thoracic surgery’ at Lady Ridgway Hospital (Document No - 21)

It is estimated that approximately 2500 to 3000 children are born annually with congenital heart defects in Sri Lankan and around 2000 children out of them will need corrective surgery. Around 900 paediatric cardiothoracic surgeries are done in Lady Ridgeway Hospital and few are done in Karapitiya and Sri Jayewardenepura Hospitals. There are thousands of patients in waiting lists and most of them succumb to their illness or develop irreversible complications while waiting for surgery. Facilities, equipment, and services of specially trained staff of this hospital are being underutilized, as surgeries are not performed after 4.00 pm on weekdays and weekends. "After working hours surgeries&" have been approved last year for acceleration of cardiothoracic surgeries. The 'Gift of Life International' a Rotarian-based organization that helps underprivileged children to receive treatment for their heart diseases has agreed to fund the after working hours surgery by paying US$ 1000 per case. The proposal made by Hon. Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to perform after working hour surgery using said funds, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Toll free number allocation for the emergency response centre of the emergency pre-hospital care ambulance service in Sri Lanka (Document No - 22)

Most of the hospitalizations and deaths in Sri Lanka are caused by accidents and medical emergencies that involve mainly the economically productive population of the country. Emergency treatment in a short period of time could prevent many of these deaths, disabilities and morbidities. The Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medicine with the participation of GVK EMRI institute in India is to establish a Pre- hospital Care Ambulance Service in this regard. An Emergency Response Centre should be established to coordinate in an emergency and it should be allocated a toll free number which can be easily kept in mind. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to denote the 1990 short code allocated to Emergency Response Centre as a toll free number, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Recognition of National Vocational Qualifications for Employment Opportunities (Document No - 28)

Many countries in the world have implemented a National Qualifications Framework to recognize learning capacity and qualifications gained by a student. Sri Lanka has two qualifications frameworks as the Sri Lanka Qualification Framework, regarding qualifications awarded by higher educational institutions and the National Vocational Qualifications Framework developed by Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission. However, recruitments are not made so far considering only the National Vocational Qualification. Though all the students are unable to show educational/academic skills, some may build up specializations in various fields by engaging in occupations. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, to issue a circular by the Ministry of Public Administration and Management, to the effect that NVQ level 3 and NVQ level 4 certificates are equal to passing GCE Ordinary Level Examination and GCE Advanced Level Examination respectively for the purpose of recruitment in a relevant field, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Agreement between Sri Lankan and Ukraine on trade and economic cooperation (Document No - 29)

The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to enter into an agreement with the Government of Ukraine for the establishment of Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation with the view of finding new opportunities, expansion of trade in goods and services, information exchange, trade disputes settlement, facilitating trade operations, business cooperation for strengthening trade, economic and technological relations between Sri Lanka and Ukraine, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Implementation of Action Plan to the National Policy Framework for SME development in Sri Lanka (Document No - 30)

The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to implement the Action Plan to the National Policy Framework for SME development in Sri Lanka prepared by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce with the assistance of relevant parties, and to establish a SME Advisory Council and an Inter-ministerial Coordinating Body for its continuation and to restructure the SME Development Authority established under the act No. 17 of 2006, and to guide relevant line ministries and agencies, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Memorandum of Understanding on collaboration for Western Region Megapolis Development Activities with Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport of the Republic of Korea (Document No - 37)

The key strategy for acceleration of the economic development of the country is the Western Region Megapolis and international specialized cooperation is required for its many projects. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to sign a MoU between the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in Korea with the view of preparation of a formal framework for cooperation, facilitating efforts with mutual benefit, implementation of certain fields of the Western Megapolis Development Project through detailed planning, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Implementation of the Smallholder Tea and Rubber Revitalization (STARR) project (Document No - 40)

The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to implement the STARR project within the six years from 2016-2021 at an total cost of US$ 65.4 million with the contribution of International Fund for Agricultural Development, Government of Sri Lanka, Government Banks and Private Sector and beneficiaries with the objectives of re-plantation of small scale tea and rubber estates, uplifting the living status and improving income of beneficiaries, crop diversification in tea and rubber estates, capacity building and promotion of business capabilities of beneficiaries, improvement of rural financial and loans supply services, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Reactivation of Thikkam Distilleries under the Palmyrah Development Board (Document No - 44)

Palmyra tree, which has a high economic potentiality and bounded with the culture of the Northern and Eastern Provinces are currently being underutilized. Even in toddy seasons, tapping of toddy was restricted due to lack of facilities. About 7,500 members of Palm Development Cooperative Societies are engaged in tapping of toddy. The Thikkam Distilleries was established in 1984 with the view of producing quality alcohol and other products using excess toddy stocks and the proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to reactivate the Thikkam Distilleries at an estimated cost of Rs. 112.5 million with the view of improving the living standards of toddy tapping community and people depending on palm industry, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Agreement between the Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade of Sri Lanka and The Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic on mutual cooperation (Document No - 48)

Czech Republic is a highly industrialized country with a developed market economy. Total value of annual exports to Czech Republic by Sri Lanka including garments and tea is around US$ 50 million while Sri Lankan imports from Czech Republic stands around US$ 10 million. Accordingly, the Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Czech Republic has entered into an agreement on mutual cooperation with the objectives of expansion of bilateral trade and economic relations, identification of economic and investment opportunities in the two countries, promoting close trade and industrial cooperation by establishing relations between entrepreneurial institutions of two countries, and the Cabinet of Ministers has granted the covering approval in this regard.

15. Procurement for supply, installation and commissioning of Diagnostic X-Ray Units (Document No - 50)

Installation of new equipment and reinstallation of equipment older than 10 years is required to provide improved healthcare services. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the above tender according to the recommendations made by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Renovation of Places of Religious worship damaged due to earthquake in Nepal (Document No - 52)

The Cabinet has already granted the approval to renovate the Ananda Kuti Buddhist Temple and Ratho Machchindranath Hindu Kovil damaged by the earthquake in Nepal. The proposal made by Hon. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Buddhasasana, to select a suitable contractor through calling for tenders restricted to Nepali and Sri Lankan bidders and to make arrangements to send Technicians of Engineering Services Corps of Sri Lanka Army to Nepal to supervise the constructions at least once in 06 months, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Upgrading of the National Fish Fishing Fleet to increase offshore fish production and enhance the quality of fish landings (Document No - 55)

Though SRI Lanka has made many efforts in developing the fisheries industry, it could not gain the maximum use of fisheries resources in the deep sea as most of multi-day fishing vessels out of 4,000 are of 30-40 feet long and with limited travelling distance and low capacity in storage. The proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to provide 10 new fishing vessels of 55 feet long to fishermen with 50% concessions by the government and to improve 50 vessels operated in Sri Lankan seas and 50 vessels in international seas with the cooperation of Ceynor Foundation Ltd, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

18. Purchasing fiberglass fishing equipment including fishing vessels, fishing boxes, and pallets manufactured by Ceynor Foundation Ltd (Document No - 56)

It is a priority task of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development to provide required applications for the fisheries industry and its expected outcomes are assist fisherman who face difficulties due to expensive fisheries applications, introduction of effective, productive and environmental friendly methods, provision of safe and lifesaving equipment, minimizing accidents in sea and minimizing crop damages. Many of the equipment used in fisheries industry are manufactured by the Ceynor Foundation Ltd, a government owned company, and the government has made a large investment in this regard. Therefore, the proposal made by Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, to directly purchase fishing vessels, fishing applications and equipment from the Ceynor Foundation Ltd, purchased by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, and other government institutions to be distributed among fishermen, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Establishment of District, Divisional and Rural Housing Committees (Document No - 57)

District Housing Committees in District Level, Divisional Housing Committees in Divisional Secretary Division levels and Rural Housing Committees in Rural Level have been established for the successful and productive implementation of all island wide housing development programs including “Shelter for All” National Housing Development Program. These Committees are being implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Housing and Construction and National Housing Development Authority and with the cooperation of other relevant ministries and institutions. The above information presented by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.

20. Introduction of light rail transit system in the western region of Sri Lanka with JICA Assistance (Document No - 58)

The Western Region Megapolis Plans have given its priority for solving transport issues in the region and it has identified that improvement of public transport modes, development of road infrastructure, management of transport demand and environmentally sustainable transportation is crucial in this regard. The most suitable solution to present transport demand of the Megapolis region is identified as the Light Train Transit and accordingly seven routs have been identified in this regard. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to obtain the assistance of JICA to conduct its feasibility Report and immediately commence the construction of Colombo Fort – Kollupitiya – Bambalapitiya – Union Place Maradana route and Borella – Malabe route, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

21. Implementation of the Social Security Network Project (Document No - 59)

There is no method of identifying whether the benefits of social security programs are being directed to the suitable communities as there is no connection with various social security programs such as "Divi Neguma" Rapidly Ageing Population and obtaining the contribution of low income persons to the economy are the severe challenges faced by social security field of the country. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to implement the Social Security Network Project that connects all social security programs that enables to select most suitable persons in a transparent manner, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Government plans to restructure the State Printing Corporation (SPC) using modern equipment and training with the expectation to increase its efficiency.

Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake made these remarks yesterday (27th June) participating the opening of the SPC mobile outlet in front of the Colombo- Fort Railway station. The SPC has established its outlets at Colombo- Fort Railway station, Maradana Railway station, Karapitiya teaching hospital, Mawanella general hospital, and at the Kirindiwela central college. These outlets will provide the customers the discounts up to 50% for their purchases.

Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranawithana, and the new Chairman of the SPC Ravi Kalansooriya were also present.

Saman Athaudahetti assumed duties as Acting Chairman of the Independent Television Network last Thursday. He assumed duties at the ITN Head Office at Wickremasinghepura.

Saman Athaudahetti has been appointed as the Acting Chairman to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Hemasiri Fernando. Saman Athaudahetti who is serving as an Additional Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office is a veteran journalist, a lyricist, an author as well as a Programme Director. Heads of all State Media Establishments also joined in the ceremony organized to mark the assumption of duties of Saman Athaudahetti as Acting Chairman of the Independent Television Network.
Noteworthy was the presence for the first time of Chairmen and Directors General of other electronic and print state media institutions at the assumption of duties of a Chairman of the Independent Television Network. All of them joined in this occasion to expresses their support to ITN
Expressing his views on the occasion Presidential Media Director General Dharma Sri Bandara Ekanayake said that Saman Athaudahetti is a veteran in this field and is a founding member of ITN. He will do his utmost for the improvement of the institution.
After assuming office in the new Post at ITN, Saman Athaudahetti made a fervent appeal to all staff members to join hands in speeding up the journey to take the establishment to an advanced position.
He said that it was last Monday that the Prime Minister told him to take over the Network for this short period and carry out a radical restructure. On one hand he has come to run the 100 metre race. He said that serious changes would have to be effected within the next few weeks for the improvement of the institution. He invited the staff members to run the race at a speed with him.
Former Chairman Hemasiri Fernando, members of the ITN Board of Directors and the Senior Management as well as staff members were present on the occasion.

Right to information is part of the sovereignty of the people. As such Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said that the Right to Information Bill was being moved in Parliament.

Opening the debate on the Second Reading of the Bill, the Prime Minister pointed out that hereafter no Government would be able to conceal information with the approval of the Right to Information Bill.
The Prime Minister said that the Bill was not approved from 2004 to 2015. Queries were made in Parliament from time to time but they did not receive a proper response. The right to information is a right of the people. It is part of the people’s sovereignty. Massive damaged had been caused in the past five to 10 years as information was not received. The then Ministers said that they were not aware of the information.
The Prime Minister said a massive sum of money had been wasted. The country is indebted to a sum of 1300 billion rupees for Sri Lankan Airlines and other institutions. A different situation would have prevailed if they were aware of the information. They came to know some facts only after assuming office. He blamed that a Right to Information Bill was not brought forward to prevent access to information thereby increasing the state of corruption.
The Prime Minister said that no Government would hereafter be able to conceal information. Other than India in South Asia, Sri Lanka has put forward the best Right to Information Bill. The country’s administrative machinery should be responsible to the people. He added that this initiative has been taken to give all information to carry forward democracy.

Sri Lanka’s long-awaited amended Right to Information Bill (RTI) will be moved in Parliament today (June 23) for the second reading.

According to Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka the proposed RTI Bill is expected to make changes in a moderate way to uphold good governance and the state functions.

Addressing a meeting at the Department of Government Information yesterday (June 22), the Minister affirmed the proposed bill will allow the public to get information regarding the public authorities and it will be an important feature for the government to be responsible at a higher level.

The Minister said all government employees should be trained for the task with an attitudinal change in their minds.

The National Ceremony to commemorate World Day Against Child Labour will be held at the BMICH today under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

Addressing the media at the Government Information Department yesterday, Labour and Trade Union Relations Minister W.D.J.Senewiratne said the government plans to eliminate child labour from Sri Lanka by the end of this year.

The Labour and Trade Union Relations Ministry and the Labour Department has already taken a number of measures with the assistance of International Labour Organizations to create child labour free Sri Lanka by year’s end. “Last year, the Labour Department received 155 complaints with regard to the child labour cases. But, we believe that there could be many other hidden cases,” the minister said.

He also added that under the provisions of Act. No. 47 of the Women, Young Persons and Child Act, employment of a child below 14 years is a punishable offence and a child between the ages 14-18 years can only engage in non hazardous form of work which does not affect the health, safety and morals of a child.

ILO Country Director Donglin Li said that child labour has no place in well-functioning and well-regulated markets. Child Labour affects the health, safety and morals of children and causes the cycle of poverty. The child labourer of today is the exploited adult worker of tomorrow.

“The ILO estimates that there are around 16 million children in child labour, five million of whom are in hazardous work,” he said. The Country Director also said that Sri Lanka has earned a global

reputation as one of the lowest prevalence countries for child labour.

He further added that the ILO will continue supporting the government and its social partners in their campaign to protect the rights, freedom, security and dignity of children in Sri Lanka.

 

Financial donations by Mr. Kushan Kirana Ayung, Chairman of the Lion Air and the Sangha Theravada Indonesia, together with Ven. Prof. Bellanwila Wimalaratana Anunayake Thera, to provide relief to the people affected by floods and landslides presented to the President Miathripala Sirisena today (21).

Mr. Kushan Kirana Ayung and Most. Ven. Prof. Bellanwila Wimalaratana Anunayake Thera donated rupees 2,506,000 and Rs 500,000 respectively.

These financial donations were presented to the President by Most. Ven. Prof. Bellanwila Wimalaratana Anunayake Thera at the Presidential Secretariat and Secretary to the President, P.B.Abeykoon, H D Premasiri, President Bellanwila Esala Perahera Committee, Vice President Mahinda Madihahewa, Secretary Kesara Lal Gunasekera, Ruban Wickramarachchi , Treasurer and the President of Dayaka Sabhawa, R.A. Wijerathna also participated in this event.

01. Strengthening the coordination between provincial councils and linear ministries

Matters have been discussed on issues confronted during implementing activities of Provincial Councils efficiently and productively at the beginning of the Cabinet Meeting, and has focused on matters regarding recruitment of teachers to schools under Provincial Councils, filling vacancies of posts of Principals and Teachers, difficulties faced in obtaining resources for Provincial Councils, and waste disposal. The need to impalement development projects with the close coordination between Provincial Councils and Linear Ministries was also emphasised.

According to the mechanism introduced in 2016 budget proposals, budgetary allocations for Provincial Councils will be made under the vote of the Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Governments. At the Meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers held with the participation of Chief Ministers of Provincial Councils earlier, it has been decided to apply the old method used till the end of 2015. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved to amend the Appropriation Act No. 16 of 2015, to facilitate the allocation of budgetary provisions directly by the General Treasury to Provincial Councils.

02. 'Project to construct the defence headquarters complex at Akuregoda' (Presenting the report of the Committee appointed to inquire into the consultancy firms and related payments

The Committee appointed in the above purpose has observed that selection of consultancy firms and their payments have been done without providing true information to the Cabinet of Ministers. The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, to suspend the services of the selected private firm and to review the payments made for the said firm, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Amendment of the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka Act

The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to amend the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka Act No. 37 of 1995, recognizing challenges and limitations of the university and without disrupting its objectives and to achieve them in more advanced manner to suit the present global status, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. Implementation of wastewater disposal infrastructure for chilaw town, Puttalam town and Wastewater disposal system for Maharagama-Boralesgamuwa areas

The joint proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply and Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to implement the above projects and to obtain a loan amount of US$ 105 million from Exim Bank of China under concessionary conditions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Provide Technical Assistance for the implementation of the Weliwita Water Supply Project

The Weliwita Water Supply Project is the first water supply project implemented under the Public-Private Partnership and the proposal made by Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Minister of City Planning and Water Supply, to obtain technical assistance of International Financial Corporation of the World Bank Group, and to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee and a Project Committee to implement this project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Resuming construction of Walasmulla Weekly Fair

The foundation of the Walasmulla Weekly Fair has been completed and the construction works have been suspended due to a absence of funds. The proposal made by Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, to resume its construction with the assistance of Sri Lanka Army, subject to an estimated cost of Rs. 50 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Holding the 3rd Meeting of Expert Group on Natural Rubber Price Stabilization of the Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC), in Sri Lanka

ANRPC is comprised of 11 member states, which are rubber producing countries including Sri Lanka. The proposal made by Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries, to host the 3rd Meeting of its Expert Group on Natural Rubber Price Stabilization by Sri Lanka in 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. The Accelerated Programme for the development of middle income housing and infrastructure

Proposals have been called according to the approval granted by the Cabinet of Ministers in 08 blocks of lands in various areas of the island owned by the Housing Development Authority, with the participation of local and foreign investors and developers. The Steering Committee appointed in this regard has recommended to implement housing projects in Panadura, Homagama (Jalthara Phase II), Yakkala, and Ragama and to recall proposals for housing projects in Kundasale, Homagama, Galle, and Nittambuwa. Above information presented by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, was considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Developing Jetty Facilities in the Jaffna Peninsula and adjoining Islands to transport passengers and cargo safely

People in Jaffna's nearby islands, including Delft and Nagadeepa, use boat transportation for their daily needs. In addition pilgrims also use boat transportation for visiting religious places of worship. However, there have been some issues regarding this transportation such as absence of sufficient boat transportation, minimum jetty facilities, and the light house is in a situation to be renovated. As a solution, the proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, Minister of Ports and Shipping, to develop and regulate coastal passenger transportation by the Director General of Merchant Shipping and to make suitable amendments to the Boat Ordinance, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Utilization of Provisions required for conducting the National Piriven Day Festival

Vast contribution has been made by Piriven to the Buddhist education and culture of the country. At present 64,606 ascetic and laic students are studying and 6,495 ascetic and laic teachers are teaching in 750 Piriven including Mulika Piriven, Maha Piriven and Vidyayathana institutions. The proposal made by Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Minister of Education, to hold the annual National Piriven Day Festival, with the view of appreciating the service rendered by Piriven and Piriven teachers and to appreciate abilities of their students on 16, 17 and 18 July 2016 at the Getambe Stadium, Kandy, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Relocation of City Centred Prisons to Interior Areas with more space

The Government has recognized the need to undertake urgent reforms in the prisons with the view of converting prisons into correction centres. Relocation of city centred prisons to under populated areas is a priority task. The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to assign design and consultancy services regarding the relocation of Prisons in Colombo, Galle, Matara, Badulla, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa, to government owned construction firms, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Meeting of Heads of National Law Enforcement Agencies (HONLEA), Asia and Pacific

United Nations Office on Drug and Crime is the key inspecting agency on global drug trafficking while the Commission on Narcotic Drugs supervises the implementation of conventions regarding control of drug trafficking. Meeting of HONLEA, which is attached to this commission, discusses new trends and issues related to drug trafficking and exchanges ideas and knowledge on law enforcement against drug trafficking. The proposal made by Hon. Sagala Ratnayake, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development, to host the said meeting to be held in Colombo on 22-28 October 2016, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Establishment of a Domestic Airport in Badulla District

Except in Uva and Sabaragamu Provinces, all the other provinces have domestic airports. A minimum of 06 hours is required to travel on land from Colombo to Badulla and the duration for air transportation is about 25 minutes. Establishment of a domestic airport in the district will help in promoting the tourism industry in the region and to improve economic crops cultivation for exportation. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to establish a domestic airport at Bandarawela in Badulla District, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Supply of medical equipment and services to the Epilepsy Unit of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka

The proposal made by Hon. Rajitha Senarathne, Minister of Health Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine, to award the contract on the above purpose as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Implementation of Budget Proposals 2016 – Construction of Cold Stores

The price fluctuation of vegetables and fruits including Big Onions and Potatoes badly impacts on farmers as well as consumers. The Budget 2016 has allocated funds to build cold stores as our crops production is based on a seasons. The proposal made by Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to build cold stores in Dambulla Economic Centre for selected vegetables and fruits including Big Onion and in Keppetipola Economic Centre for selected vegetables and fruits including Potatoes, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

16. Central Expressway Project – Obtaining Consultancy services for the construction of section 2 from Mirigama to Kurunegala (39.91 km), including a link from Mirigama to Ambepussa (9.3 km)

The above project will construct an expressway section from Mirigama to Kurunegala via Pothuhera with a length of 39.91 km of 4 lanes and link from Mirigama intersection to Ambepussa of 2 lanes with a length of 9.3 km. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to commence required procurement activities for selection of a suitable firm to provide consultancy services in supervising these constructions, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

17. Financial Assistance for disaster relief and recovery

Local and foreign donors have donated financial donations for providing reliefs to people affected by recent flood and landslide situations occurred in several places in the country in May 2016. Three Bank Accounts (03) have been opened for receiving local donations and five (05) Accounts have been opened for receiving foreign donations. The money deposited in these accounts is daily remitted to the account opened in Central Bank of Sri Lanka in the name of Deputy Secretary to the Treasury with the objective of utilizing in relief acivities. The information was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance.

18. Obtaining a credit of Special Drawing Rights for the competitiveness, transparency, and fiscal sustainability development policy financing programme

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to obtain a loan of US$ 100 million from the International Development Agency to develop the Sri Lankan economy by implementing recognized reforms under three (03) aspects for removal of obstacles for the competitiveness in private sector, transparency and improvement of management in public sector, and improvement of the fiscal sustainability, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

19. Clearance of debris of houses and waste heaped due to recent disaster in Salawa area in Kosgama

The clearance of waste in several areas of the Western Province due to recent floods has been completed successfully. The proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to deploy about 20 tippers for around one week for the clearance of debris of houses and waste in Salawa area in Kosgama utilizing the balance allocations, as per the request made by the Army, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The implementation of the Right to Information Act (RTI) is due to be carried out in stages, Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media, Gayantha Karunathilaka revealed. The government plans to seek approval from parliament to first implement the system at National level and then at Provincial and Local levels, after the Bill is approved by parliament, the Minister said. The Bill which is a main feature of the 100-day program of the government will be taken up for debate and vote next week. In an exclusive interview with the Sunday Observer Minister Karunathilaka assured that the strength of the bill will not be diluted in any form due to changes that may be accomodated during Parliamentary debate.

Excerpts:
Q: How confident are you about the vote on June 24?

We are very confident. There were some concerns about the composition of the committee we propose to appoint. Besides that, everyone was happy with the bill. We conducted a workshop for all the parliamentarians to give them an idea of the contents of the Bill, and the attendance was more than satisfactory. We expect changes which will be minor. But I can assure you that none of it will dilute the strength of the law laid down in the Act. We won’t let the RTI face the same fate as The National Drug Policy.

Q: Other than in urban areas, people are still not aware of the importance of the Right to Information Act (RTI). How would you describe the importance of the Act?

Not every government is keen on bringing an RTI Act because it gives the citizens the right to access information, and also to question the government. The State is run by people’s money, so they have every right to know what is happening. Most importantly, it will make the government responsible for their actions, which is a good thing. This is what we promised when we came into power, i.e. an open and transparent government.

Q: Has the government planned how they propose to make people aware of the Act?

We have planned to get young people involved, to reach the public, by making them ‘RTI Activists.’ So, they can go, educate people on the importance of the RTI Act, which is one of the mainstream programs planned to educate the general public.

Q: How long will it take to put the system in place, after the approval of Parliament is given?

It will take at least six months. The Act requires the system to be in place within six months. So, we are trying our best to deliver it within that time. However, some matters will take a little longer. Training 8,000 government officials is a massive task.

Q: You said some matters will take a longer time. What are those matters?

Once the Act is passed, a committee will be appointed to look into the matters related. Also, we have to make bylaws, decide on regulations and most importantly, appoint officers to provide information when a citizen requests.

Q: How do you intend to implement the system? Is there a specific method the Ministry intends to adopt?

Implementing is a big challenge. We have to train officials in 4,300 government institutions. Therefore, we plan to seek parliamentary approval to implement it in stages, probably at National, Provincial and Local levels. Even in the instance of introducing the Act, we first made the right to information a fundamental right. Then the mechanism was brought in as the RTI Act . The next stage is to get parliamentary approval.

Q: The RTI Act expressly prohibits the disclosure of information with regard to several areas. For example, if such information is a threat to national security, it will not be disclosed. Are there any exceptions?

Yes, there are prohibitions as regards releasing information. However, according to the Act, if there is a huge public outcry demanding information with regard to some matter, such information could be disclosed, at the discretion of the committee.

Q: What changes does the government expect to bring about with the RTI Act?

One of the most important changes would be to change the mindset of the government officials.When a person asks for information, they will be required to provide such information. If they deny, it will amount to an offence. For example, if a child is denied school admission, by means of the Act the parents have the right to know on what grounds the child was rejected, and about the process how selections are made. We expect citizens to play an active part in this.

Q: How important is this to the Media industry?

There is a misconception that the RTI is only helpful for the media, which is not true. It is for every citizen. But, once the Act is enacted. the media will benefit immensely, because then they have a credible source to refer to. There’s no need to rely on gossip or assumptions.

The Act will make their jobs easier. Although they won’t get the requested information immediately, in three weeks time, the information they get will be authentic.

President Maithripala Sirisena inaugurated the Lake House Mihintale Aloka Pooja organised by the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (ANCL) on Poson Poya Day in Mihintale yesterday.

The event held for the 54th year is co sponsored by the Ceylon Electricity Board, Dialog Axiata, Bank of Ceylon and Abans. Thousands of devotees gathered at Mihintale to witness the switching on of the Aloka Pooja which continues for the fourth day.

ANCL Chairman and Managing Director Kavan Ratnayaka in his welcome speech expressed his sincere thanks to President Maithripala Sirisena and other dignitaries for attending the event.

Chief Incumbent of Mihinthalaya Maha Vihara Ven.Walawahangunawewa Dhammarathana Thera in his Anusasana appreciated the services rendered by ANCL, the sponsors and the government for their involvement in the Aloka Pooja.

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Y.K. Sinha who attended the event as the Guest of Honour mentioned India’s strong bilateral bonds since the ancient history with Sri Lanka has always been influenced by Buddhism.

Power and Renewable Energy Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Agriculture Minister Duminda Dissanayake also made speeches highliting the state patronage for the Aloka Pooja.

Women’s and Child Affairs Minister Chandrani Bandara, Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka, North Central Province Governor P.B.Dissanayake, Anuradhapura District Secretary D.P.G.Kumarasiri, Mihintale Divisional Secretary Ruwan Ekanayake, ANCL Director Editorial Saman Wagaarachchi and ANCL General Manager Abhaya Amaradasa.

The much awaited Right to Information (RTI) Bill will be presented to Parliament next week, 20 years after the concept came to the fore.

Parliamentary Affairs and Mass Media Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranawithana in an interview with the Daily News said: ‘Information is a public property’.

“It is about time the people have access to public information so that they can hold the government accountable,” Paranawithana said.

Excerpts:

Q: Will you be able to pass the Right to Information Bill in the next few weeks?

A: Yes, on June 23, the Bill will be read for the second time, on the same day or the next day, we expect the Bill to be passed. We don’t think many would oppose it, because we believe that even the Opposition would offer us constructive criticism towards it. Everyone believes that we need the Bill. It has taken some time to get here, so there will be no problem.

Q: Do you expect amendments to be made during the second reading of the Bill?

A: Yes, there might be certain amendments. The Opposition will not simply support a Bill without having to include their amendments to it. At present, we have a few amendments made to it by local and provincial governments. When a fruitful debate takes place in Parliament, amendments are bound to crop up, but we don’t think it would affect the essence or intention of the Bill.

We will accommodate them during the committee stage or third reading of the Bill and then pass it.

Q: What amendments does the government expect to include?

A: We will not be introducing many amendments as the Bill was prepared in accordance with international standards.

Q: When the government accepted amendments proposed by the Opposition to pass the 19th Amendment, it resulted in the amendment being diluted. Will that fate befall this Bill too?

A: As I said earlier, we will only accept amendments which don’t affect the essence or intention of the Bill. If there are amendments which cause dilution or make the Bill ineffective, we will not accept them. We don’t need a two thirds majority to pass the Bill, a simple majority is sufficient. We have those numbers in Parliament. We have spoken to the MPs of the Opposition, so I don’t think they will introduce amendments which will dilute the Bill. The situation here is not similar to that of the 19th Amendment.

Q: The Bill also stipulates that the government will be given a mere six months to implement the Bill once it is passed. Will that be enough?

A: Yes, we have to appoint the Information Commission first. We have over 4,000 state institutions. We need to identify information officers in these places and appoint them. We also need to appoint regulatory officers. All of them need to be trained. We need to have forums on it. Style books and guide books need to be made. By-laws and regulations have to be amended or made to accommodate the Bill.

We believe that six months will be sufficient for this. We need to work hard, we can do it. We will need the support of all to get this done. A government always makes laws to regulate or control the people; whether it be taxation, certain controls or punishment. This is to hold the people accountable before the law. But this is the opposite.

We are trying to hold the government accountable to the people through this. So, it is the people’s law. We need our citizens to motivate us to get it done. We also need to change the mindsets of the government servants. If all those work, we can implement it soon.

Q: When we speak of changing mindsets, government servants have been used to restricting or hiding information rather than divulging it to the people. Will an Act change that?

A: Yes, because the government has been designed to keep secrets or withhold information, not to give it to the people. Thus, we have ‘state secrets’. Certain laws also forbid the release of information. But, we have to look at what ‘information’ really means. Information is a public property.

We tax people, hire officers using that money, form departments and institutions to run the government. These agencies or ministries then get together and work on certain things. Thus, a whole lot of information on what they do is collected. In the process, certain questions come about as to the work they do and the method they have followed. Thus as human resources and other assets of the government are owned by the people, the information that is collected in the process also belongs to the people. If information is a public property, why keep it away from the people?

The government machinery, however, has been designed to keep information away from the people. In a democracy, things are different; democracy requires that we keep government under the scrutiny of the people.

In Sweden, for an example, the Right to Information Bill is over 200 years old. In September, they will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Bill. When we go in for the concept of ‘Open Government’, we need to come out of our old mindsets and change.

In the beginning, certain government officers may think this as a burden and resist, but they will need to be trained for that. But, there are other government officers who are waiting for this. We will use them as pioneers or champions of the Bill. Make them RTI activists. The Bill is not a result of a massive grassroots campaign to have it, so we need to make the public aware of the benefits of the Bill.

Q: There are certain clauses in the Bill which restrict the release of information, for example, clauses that deal with national security or reconciliation. Do you not think that government officials would use these clauses not to divulge information altogether?

A: No, they cannot do that. They cannot say that all information affects national security or privacy of an individual. The Bill stipulates what information can be and cannot be given. There is only a small proportion of information in the Bill categorized under national security or privacy. People do have access to information on education, civil security, administration, health and communication. All this can be divulged. You cannot withhold information, but there are specific categories people will not have access to. For example, no one can request for a breakdown of the weapons the Army has or where will Army camps in future be situated. Those things cannot be asked.

These limitations are included in all RTI bills around the world. This does not mean that the Bill is diluted. Centre for Law and Democracy, a Canadian NGO which studied the draft said this would be a progressive Bill.

Q: When speaking of limitations, the Bill also stipulates that certain information regarding the economy is also off limits. The economy affects the day to day functions of the people. So, how can you say that this information will not be divulged?

A: We do give out certain information on the economy. For example, about taxation, the policy of development, development proposals and tenders. We give out all that. What is not divulged is information, if released, can have a detrimental impact on the economic growth of the country.

For example, if we change exchange controls of the country, and we release that information beforehand, certain parties would make use of that to create a loss to the economy. We will not make such premature disclosures. When we are discussing international trade agreements, we cannot reveal its contents. Because even if we wanted to release that information, the other country may not like that. Anyway, all state institutions produce reports on their activities to Parliament at the end of the year.

Our Bill, however, stipulates that if there is a large public outcry for certain information which has been deemed restricted, the request can be put forward to the Information Commission. They have been given the discretion to decide whether it should be revealed or not.

Q: There have been allegations that the commission has been given too much power?

A: This has to be an independent commission. If ministers or people appointed by them are put to run the commission, the commission will be blamed for being biased. The procedure followed in our country at present is that such sensitive areas should be governed by independent commissions.

Thus, members to the commission will be appointed through the Constitutional Council. The commission needs such power. They will administer information, regulate the process, monitor it and certain complaints will be directed at Courts.

It does not have judicial powers, but it can recommend cases to Courts. Some have argued that this does not have judicial powers. It should have been provided judicial powers, but we didn’t do that.

Q: What would happen to the Press Council Act once the RTI Act has been established?

A: The RTI Act states that obstacles to the release of information would be removed. The Press Council Act will have to be either removed or amended.

There have been many questions on the Press Council Act and the Press Council itself is working on certain amendments to it.

Once the RTI is enforced, we can see what legal problems arise.

Q: The Bill states that not only government institutions but also NGOs can be questioned on their activities?

A: Yes, it states that all organisations, including NGOs that use public funds or work in the interest of the public would also come under scrutiny. This is a good thing, because a lot of state funds get misused by certain organisations. We are not asking civil societies or NGOs not to work for the people. But, we are just saying that they should be accountable to the people.

Q: Do you believe that once the RTI has been passed, the people will actively seek information? Even now, certain information is available to them, but not many are interested or know about it?

A: I don’t expect a huge wave of people to go to information officers and ask for the information they need once the RTI is established. Certain areas like education may be more progressive than others. But, people may not be interested in other areas. For example, information on consumer rights, not many are interested in, it affects them greatly, but not many ask. But, we can have RTI activists and get the people interested in it. The media can also play a huge role in motivating the people towards it. Over time, the people will get used to it.

Q: We are the last country in the region to bring in the RTI Bill. Why do you think we lagged behind in this domain?

A: Yes, it is strange. In 2005, India brought in their RTI laws. We brought ours earlier than that, in 2003, but Parliament was dissolved by

then. The government which came into power after that was not interested in bringing in RTI. They were a protectionist government, they securitised everything, even drinking water. So that was forgotten. That was the delay, now things have changed. We promised to do this at elections, and we will do it.

President Maithripala Sirisena and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuolu discussed ways to strengthen relations between the two countries yesterday (June 15).

The President urged Turkey to increase investments in Sri Lanka and the visiting Turkish Minister briefed the President on the steps the Turkish government could take for further strengthening of trade, investment and bilateral relations.


Ambassador of Republic of Turkey to Sri Lanka, Tunca Özuhadar, Sedar Cam, President of TIKA, Turkish Corporation and Coordination Agency and Ambassador Ümit Yalçin, Deputy Undersecretary for Middle-East and Asia Pacific also took part in the discussions.


Following the independence of Sri Lanka on 4 February 1948, the Turkish Embassy in New Delhi was accredited to Sri Lanka and the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Tel Aviv was accredited to Turkey.


Later on, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara was opened in 2012 and the Turkish Embassy in Colombo was opened in 2013.


The relations between Turkey and Sri Lanka are free of problems. The visit of the Turkish Prime Minister to Sri Lanka on 10 February 2005, in the context of his tour to the countries affected by tsunami that occurred on 26 December 2004 in the Indian Ocean, has been an important threshold in the Turkey-Sri Lanka bilateral relations. Besides, Inter-parliamentary Friendship Groups were mutually established both in the Turkish Grand National Assembly and the Parliament of Sri Lanka, in 2006.


The visit paid by the then President of Sri Lanka in 2008, has been the first presidential visit from Sri Lanka to Turkey.

The ‘Senehe Siyapatha’ initiative continued its second phase of relief efforts at the Kolonnawa Balika Vidayala yesterday.

Shoes and socks were distributed to schoolchildren affected by the floods.

Children from 33 schools in the Colombo and Gampaha districts will receive footwear worth over Rs. 8 million from the ‘Senehe Siyapatha’ initiative, comprising of the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited, Dialog Axiata PLC, Disaster Management Centre, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation and Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation.

At the event held yesterday, 674 children received aid in the presence of Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka and Deputy Media Minister Karunaratna Paranawithana.

The ‘Senehe Siyapatha’ initiative contributed Rs. 50 million towards flood relief and will work closely with the Disaster Management Centre in the coming weeks to channel these funds to provide assistance to those affected, with a special focus on children.

Dialog customers were invited to donate Rs. 50 towards flood relief efforts, and Dialog tripled the donation by adding Rs. 100 thereby donating Rs. 150, collecting Rs. 50 million within a week. Customers donated Rs. 14.9 million to the initiative, whilst Dialog Axiata added Rs. 35.9 million.

Under the first phase of its activity, the ‘Senehe Siyapatha’ initiative donated 50 water pumps worth Rs. 1.6 million to the Disaster Management Centre to aid immediate relief efforts during the flood. The third stage will focus on rehabilitating up to 15 schools which were damaged during the disaster. Discussions are also underway to provide support to small and medium scale entrepreneurs who were impacted during this period, as part of a series of focused interventions.

The media has to play a vital role in promoting corruption free society, said Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka.

He was addressing the Certificates Awarding Ceremony of the Sri Lanka Media Training Institute at the Government Information Department yesterday. Minister Karunatillaka also said that having professional training is important to a journalist to pass correct information to the public.

"The demand for journalists has seen an increase in our society since journalism is a dignified profession," the minister said.

Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana said the Ministry plans to upgrade the Sri Lanka Media Training Institute as the Government Institution which provides National Professional Qualification on Mass Media.

“It is difficult to decide between the professional journalists in countries like ours. Though the concept of professional journalism is controversial, most developed countries have taken measures to promote professional journalism,” the Deputy Minister said. He also added that the absence of a regulatory mechanism for the electronic media has become an issue.

The Deputy Minister said that the Right to Information Bill will be placed in the Order Paper for the Second Reading in Parliament on June 23.

Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Ministry Secretary Nimal Bopage and Sri Lanka Media Training Institute Chairman Dharmasena Pathiraja also spoke.

Proposed Right to Information Bill (RTI) is expected to make changes in a moderate way to uphold good governance and the state function, according to Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathna Paranawithana.


Addressing a meeting at the Department of Government Information Yesterday (14th June) Minister affirmed the proposed bill will allow the public to get information regarding the public authorities and it will be an important feature for the government to be responsible at a higher level.

He further said that all the government employees should be trained for this task with an attitudinal change in their minds.
The RTI bill will be presented to the Parliament on 23rd June for the second reading.

01. Treaty on extradition between the governments of Sri Lanka and Ukraine (Document No - 08)

The proposal made by H.E. the President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to enter in to an agreement with the government of Ukraine on extradition of criminals, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
It will provide the opportunity to request the authorities in Ukraine to receive criminals who have engaged in illegal activities in this country and sought protection in Ukraine.


0 2. Renovation of 'seth sevana' government elders' home in Mirigama and constructing a water tank for the same (Document No - 11)


The elderly population of Sri Lanka is 12.4% of the total population. The elderly population is rapidly increasing and it is expected that it will exceed 24.8% in 2041. Considering the ageing population it is necessary to make space for them to spend their old age with pride and dignity. The 'Seth Sevana' Elders' Home, which was established to commemorate Right Honourable D.S. Senanayake, is the largest elders' home owned by the government in the Western Province and 265 elders currently reside in it. The proposal made by Hon. S.B Dissanayake, Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare, to obtain financial allocations for basic renovations including water supply of this elders' home, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 3. Project for computerization of activities in the department of labour to improve transparency and efficiency (Document No - 12)


The Department of Labour is vested with the responsibility of implementing provisions related to service statuses, conditions, and employees' welfare, that have been enacted by the government for securing human rights of employees with conform to charters and recommendations of the International Labour Organization as well as protecting employees from occupational accidents. Developing a Labour Inspection System Application has been commenced in 2010 with the cooperation of the ILO with the view of computerizing key subjects of this department. Obtaining accurate data, preventing same institution being inspected regularly, enhancing efficiency and transparency of the Labour Department and preparation of an employee motivation method are its main objectives. The information presented by Hon. W.D.J. Seneviratne, Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations, that the programme is to be completely implemented at August 2016 by obtaining required staff and infrastructure, were considered by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 4. Implementation of the saarc agreement on trade in services (SATIS) (Document No - 17)


Heads of States of SAARC countries have signed the above agreement at the 16th session of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation held in 2010 at Bhutan as a further step towards expanding regional trade to services. To implement the Framework Agreement on SATIS, the schedules of commitments should be finalized by individual member countries. Sri Lanka falls under Category I of this agreement and in Doha Round of World Trade Organization Sri Lanka agreed to liberalize the fields of communication services, financial services, and tourism and travel related services. In addition Rental/Leasing services without operators – relating to ships and space transport are to be added to the schedule. The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to implement the said agreement and to issue requests to public institutions that are related to its implementation, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 5. Agreement on economic cooperation between the republic of Bulgaria and the democratic socialist republic of Sri Lanka (Document No - 18)


The total trade turnover between Sri Lanka and Bulgaria, a member of the European Union, has increased to US$ 7.75 million in 2015. The proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to enter into an agreement with Bulgaria for searching of new paths to promote trade, investment and economic ties between the two countries and to establish an interstate mechanism for development of economic relations through new fields which have been identified, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 6. Commemoration of 94th international co-operative day (Document No - 19)


The Co-operative Movement can be introduced as a movement that has been built by the public for their own economic and social progress. The International Day of this movement is being commemorated by the United Nations since 1975. The International Co-operative Day falls on 02nd of July this year and the proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to declare a Co-operative Week from 25th June 2016 to 01st July and to commemorate the Cooperative Day on 02nd July 2016 at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Colombo with co-operators, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 7. Reservation of land for construction of the access road to the dedicated economic centre from Veyangoda town (Document No - 21)


The Veyangoda Economic Centre, which was established in 2007 and comprised of 70 business units and 06 stores, is a very important business centre for trade and consumer community. As the current access road has a certain distance from Veyangoda town consumers are less interested in coming to the Economic Centre and with the absence of an access road from Nittambuwa – Katunayake highway traders of Dambulla, Welimada, Nuwara Eliya areas, using the highway are also less interested in reaching the Economic Centre. The joint proposal made by Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, and Hon. P. Harrison, Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, to reserve a land of 40 perches owned by the Food Commissioner's Department to the Ministry of Rural Economic Affairs for construction of an access way to the Economic Centre from Nittambuwa – Katunayake highway, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 8. Amendment to the Provincial Councils Elections Act No. 02 of 1988 (Document No - 23)


According to the government's policy of increasing the women contribution in political decision making at least from 25%, arrangements have been made to amend the Provincial Councils Elections Act No. 02 of 1988 for enact provisions for increasing the women contribution in nominations presented by each party or independent group for each province to a minimum of 30%. The proposal made by Hon. Faizer Mustafa, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, to publish the draft bill for amendment of the above act in the gazette and present the same in parliament for approval, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


0 9. Resettlement of internally displaced families in welfare camps (Document No - 25)


At the end of March 2016, 251,000 IDP families have been resettled in North and Eastern Provinces. However, more than 14,000 families are to be further resettled. Currently 1,109 families are residing in 31 welfare camps in Tellippalai Divisional Secretary Division and 641 families out of them are reported as landless families. Jaffna District Secretary has identified a land of 65 hectares belonging to the Cement Corporation in Kankesanthurai for resettlement of these families. The proposal made by Hon. D.M. Swaminathan, Minister of Prison Reforms, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, to acquire the said land to the government for resettlement of 400 families in Tellippalai Welfare Camp, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 10. Allocation of a land for establishment of a tyre factory at gonapola, Horana (Document No - 26)


Sri Lanka earns an income of US$ 471 million by exporting pneumatic & retreated rubber tyres and tubes, which accounts for 61.9 percent of the total rubber exports. The proposal made by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, to establish a tyre factory with a capacity of 3 million tyres per annum with an investment of US$ 75 million as a Board of Investment project, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 11. Development of the airport in Palaviya, Puttalam (Document No - 31)


A domestic aviation system is vital for the country that combines the whole country with the international airports. In addition to international airports in Katunayake and Mattala, there are 14 domestic airports in various extents covering 7 out of 9 provinces in Ampara, Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Hingurakgoda, Palali, Iranamadu, Koggala, Katukurunda, Palaviya, Ratmalana, Sigiriya, Trincomalee, Weerawila and Vavuniya. Budget 2016 has proposed to establish three domestic airports in Badulla, Kandy and Puttalam Districts with public-private partnership to promote tourism in these districts. The proposal made by Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, to develop the Palaviya Airport, by adding a land of 26 hectares at an estimated cost of Rs. 750 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 12. Development of infrastructures at the universities of Peradeniya, Kelaniya, Colombo, Jaffna, rajarata, visual and performing arts, eastern university and the institute of agro-technology and rural sciences of the University of Colombo (Document No - 33)


The government has given priority to cater requirements of current students and who are expecting to enter universities in technology and other fields by improving space and facilities of government universities. It is expected to enrol 1825 students at the end of 2016 to follow courses in technology stream and the University Grant Commission has taken steps to enrol students at a 5% annual growth rate from 2017. Furthermore, it has been advised to commence these courses in other universities. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to improve infrastructure such as faculty buildings, computer units, libraries, and research buildings in eight (08) universities at an estimated cost of Rs. 484 million in 2016 and Rs. 3,381 million and Rs. 1,074 million respectively in 2017 and 2018 with the view of generating professional graduates to suit the development needs of the economy and international job market, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 13. Award of eighteen (18) civil works contract packages in north central, north western provinces and Kaluthara districts (Document No - 35)


The Integrated Road Investment Programme, funded by the Asian Development Bank, is implemented with the view of improving the access roads among key socio-economic centres in rural areas. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Higher Education and Highways, to award 18 civil work contracts related to 18 road sections, in North Central, North Western provinces and Kaluthara District, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 14. Reintroduction of Capital Gains Tax (GGT) Regime (Document No - 40)


During the last few decades there has been a massive increase in the private capital in the country. The increase in prices of land attributable to the large infrastructure developments carries out through government funds have enabled the land owners to make significant capital gains free of taxation. This resulted in the increase in the inequality of income distribution. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Management agrees to reintroduce the Capital Gains Tax to rectify the situation and the proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, to draft a new Capital Gains Tax Regime, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.


1 15. Annual Report 2015 – Ministry of Finance (Document No - 46)


In terms of Section 13 of the Fiscal Management (Responsibility) Act No. 03 of 2003, the Minister of Finance is required to submit a report on Final Budgetary Position (Annual Report) to parliament and to the public before 31st May of the following year. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to submit the Annual Report 2015 of the Ministry of Finance in the parliament that consists of 13 chapters with updated information on government's fiscal position in 2015, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Director of Digital Rapid Response in the Office of Digital Strategy of White House, Tanya Somanader called on the Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake this morning (13th June).

The bilateral discussions were held on information circulation in Sri Lanka, behavior of the social media, and the Right to Information Bill.

Deputy Minister Karunarathna Paranawithana, Secretary to the Ministry Nimal Bopage, Information Officer of the US High Commission in Sri Lanka Joshua Shen, and Omar Rajarathman were also present

Foreign of Turkey, Mevlüt Çavusoglu will be in Sri Lanka for two days. He will reach the island on the 14th June.

Minister Cavusoglu will hold bilateral talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs Mangala Samaraweera, and Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, Malik Samarawickrama during his stay in Colombo.

An MoU on cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka on diplomatic training, exchange of information and documentation will also be signed. (CDN)

Sri Lanka has become more peaceful and ranked higher in this year's Global Peace Index as the country saw strong gains in both internal and external peace.

Sri Lanka was up by 18 places to rank 97th with a score of 2.133 in the 2016 Global Peace Index (GPI) which ranked 163 nations according to their "level of peacefulness".

The GPI, the world's leading measure of national peacefulness, ranked Sri Lanka 114th out of 162 countries in 2015.

Sri Lanka saw strong gains in both internal and external peace, enabling it to jump up 18 positions in the rankings, the second-largest rank improvement overall, the report that was released Wednesday said.

Improvements in political instability, likelihood of violent demonstrations and number and duration of internal conflicts all contributed to the enhancement in its domestic situation. Sri Lanka along with few other countries saw significant reductions in the number of deaths from internal conflict.

"Driving these trends was a strengthening of the country's democratic institutions during the administration of Maithripala Sirisena, who continues to make strides in combating corruption and reverse the authoritarianism of the previous administration. In addition, his government has continued to pursue a strategy of ethnic reconciliation following the end of the civil war in 2009," the GPI report highlighted.

Sri Lanka has improved its ties with India, which is reflected in an improvement in its score for relationships with neighbouring countries. Military expenditure has also been cut as threats to internal stability gradually dissipate, but the country's impact of terrorism score deteriorated slightly.

According to the 2016 report, the world however has become slightly less peaceful in 2016, with the average GPI country score deteriorating by 0.53. Rankings of 81 countries have improved but deterioration in another 79 outweighed these gains.

Iceland was once again named the world's most peaceful country, followed by Denmark, Austria, New Zealand and Portugal, the latter improving nine places. Syria was once again named the least peaceful country.

Within South Asia, Bhutan ranked the best at 13th, Nepal 78th, Bangladesh 83rd, India 141st, Pakistan 153rd and Afghanistan at the bottom at 160th.

The GPI is developed by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) under the guidance of an international panel of independent experts with data collated and calculated by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).

The President’s House in Colombo, which is the official residence of President Maitripala Sirisena is open to the public until Tuesday (June 14). The President’s House in Colombo has been the official residence of the leaders of the country for more than 200 years.

This has been the residence of a Dutch Governor, thirty British Governors, two Sri Lankan Governor Generals and seven Presidents of Sri Lanka. The edifice was built during Dutch rule in Sri Lanka . There was a white building with a balcony facing the sea , with a flag post in the front, in the first map of Colombo sketched in the 18th century. The white building is the present President’s House.

According to historical records , the President’s House was built on the land belonging to the St. Francis’s Church. The Portuguese Church was converted into a Dutch Church during the Dutch Period. In 1757 a new church named Wolfendhal Church was built. Sir Arthur Gordon built a park there and now it is known as “Gordon’s Park”.

There was a cemetery also near the church. According to records , King Don Juan Dharmapala,who was detained in Colombo was buried in this cemetery.

Addressing the first set of visitors the President said that he has no intention of using this huge mansion, as this is too big for him.

“Being a person from the village this is rather big for me.Moreover, when residing in such a large building, the thinking patter and lifestyle of one may also change” the President replied when he was asked why this mansion is not used by him as his residence.

He further added that if he lives in this mansion, the electricity bill alone will be over Rs 7 million and the water bill Rs 4 million monthly. However, since the mansion consists of an underground bunker the electricity bill will come to around Rs 4 million monthly as the bunker is air-conditioned for 24hours.

The President further added that the President houses in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya too will be opened to the public.

"Senehe Siyapatha" fund, established to assist the recent flood affected people will offer vouchers for the students in the affected areas to buy pair of shoes today (8th June) at the Siddhartha Maha Vidyalaya in Sedawaththe.

Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake, Minister of Disaster Management Anura Priyadarshane Yapa, Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathne Paranawithna, Minister of Education of the Western Province Ranjith Somawatte, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Nimal Bopage are expected to take part in this event and also to visit the area to look into the educational needs of the students.

The "Senehe Siyapatha" fund, established by the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, Independent Television Network, Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited, Disaster Relief Center, and the Dialog Mobile network in co-ordination with the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media has implemented number of relief measures for the displaced people.

President’s House in Colombo and the Gordon Park will be opened for the public and the school children from today (8th June) to 14th June according to a decision made by the President Maithripala Sirisena.

This will be the first time in the history that the Colombo’s President’s House, which was used by 29 governors and six Presidents for their official and residential purposes is opened for the public.

The inauguration ceremony in this regard will be held under the patronage of the President Sirisena today at 2.00 p.m.The President’s House and the surrounding area had been designated as a high-security area during period of the former President Rajapaksa.

Although, the President Maithripala Sirisena does not use it as his official residence and it is used only for special occasions including welcoming the state guests.

This palace has been built in the period of Dutch Governance and the first British Governor who resided in this palace was Sir Thomas Maitland. After that, 29 British Governors has resided in this palace and Sir Robert Horton and John Anderson were the outstanding persons among them.

Today is the world Word Oceans Day. Sri Lanka will join the global community to mark this annual international event. This year’s celebrations are themed “Healthy Oceans - Healthy Planet”.

The World Oceans Day-2016 national ceremony is held this morning 7.a.m at the Viharamahadevi open theatre under the patronage of the President Maithripala Sirisena.

The ceremony will be followed by an awareness walk from the Viharamahadevi park to Galle Face premises participated by the President Sirisena. About 1,500 members representing schools, public institutions, NGOs, and universities are expected to participate  in the walk.

A coastal cleaning program will be held in Wellawatte and in the Crow-island coastal areas with the participation of the school students, public employees, NGO members, and universities academics. Awareness programs will also be launched by the island wide District and Divisional secretaries in the coastal areas.

The World Oceans Day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2008 and since then it is celebrated annually.

Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya, a senior journalist and the founding Director-General of the Sri Lanka Press Institute, assumed duties as the newly appointed Director General of the Government Information Department today (June 06).

He was serving as Advisor - Asia Pacific Affairs, at International Media Support at the time of receiving the new appointment. Earlir, he had served as a journalist for the Dinamina as well as the Daily News, where he became the Deputy News Editor in the late 1990s.

He is the son of veteran author Somadevi Paranayapa.

“Human being, as a cultural creature, is considered more important than any other living creature because of their ability to conquer the environment”, says President Maithripala Sirisena.


“Although, the mankind forced to make changes in the environment to a certain extent to build essential things for survival of them such as houses and roads, the natural disasters occur from time to time emphasize the human beings regarding their boundaries that they should know while dealing with the environment”, he stated in his message issued for the World Environment Day.

Following is the full text of the message of the President;

Human being, as a cultural creature, is considered more important than any other living creature because of their ability to conquer the environment. Although, the mankind forced to make changes in the environment to a certain extent to build essential things for survival of them such as houses and roads, the natural disasters occur from time to time emphasize the human beings regarding their boundaries that they should know while dealing with the environment.

At present, the environment has gone beyond its earlier depiction as a topic of natural beauty and today it is a major topic of the global dialogue the context of the scientific structure.

Discoveries like land degradation due to the global warming, many issues arisen as a result of the climate change, medical science findings about respiratory diseases that carbon emissions can directly cause for these diseases has made this dialogue more pivotal.

All prominent nations in the world have given priority to this vital topic and, approach toward this subject with utmost concern as they have understood the profound truth that humans cannot survive by going against the environment.

Various programmes were launched across the world to mark the World Environment Day with the aim of taking this decisive dialogue to the general public.

I believe, we as a country, step by step becoming the part of the list of the countries of natural disaster risk. Hence, it is essential to understand this message about the environment.

I believe, in this Day of World Environment we can spread the message of environmental dialogue, which compels the humans to be satisfied with a development level that the environment could tolerate, among the Sri Lanka community.

The Department of Government Information has strongly condemned the attack against Journalist Freddy Gamage.

Issuing a statement, Director General of the department, Dr. Dharshani Gunathilake said that the incident is a barbaric act. Freddy Gamage is the convener of the Web Journalists Association and also the editor of the ‘Meepura’ divisional newspaper.

Freddy Gamage was assaulted by two people wearing full face helmets when he was returning after covering the Negombo Urban Council Meeting.

The recognition of the Sri Lankan government in the international sphere was seen from the warm welcome President Maithripala Sirisena received at the G7 Summit 2016, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake said.

He made this observation at the Cabinet briefing at the Information Department auditorium yesterday.

Karunathilake said the last few weeks was significant for Sri Lanka in the international sphere with the President meting top world leaders in Japan, while Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in an important international event in Korea.

The minister said this was the first time in history, that Sri Lanka was invited for the G7 Summit.

“The country also had the opportunity to obtain foreign funds for the country's development,” Minister Karunathilake said.

“The Prime Minister participated at the Rotary International Convention in South Korea with United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon.

It was a great opportunity for the country as the Prime Minister had the opportunity to deliver a speech in South Korea."

He said this was a victory for the country and good governance as the international community deserted Sri Lanka during the previous regime.

The first flag of the program to sell anti-tobacco flags, carried out in parallel to the World No Tobacco Day, was pinned on the President today (May 31) at the Presidential Secretariat.

This program will be held for the 20th successive time under the theme “Towards a Tobacco Free Friendly Environment for All of Us to Live in” this will be carried out from May 31 to June 26.

Sri Lanka has been implementing this program from 1996, in line with the World No Tobacco Day. Strengthening this further, large number of events has been implemented under the “Drug Free Country National Program” which is carried out under a concept of President Sirisena.

Minister of Social Empowerment and Welfare S. B. Dissanayake, Secretary to the Ministry Mahinda Senevirathne and Director General of Divi Neguma Chandra Wickramasinghe also participated in this occasion.

Government of Canada has provided CAD 310,000 (approximately LKR 35 million) in support to humanitarian relief efforts in Sri Lanka in response to the May 2016 flooding and landslides.

This funding was disbursed through the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund (CHAF) and the Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund (EDAF) of Global Affairs Canada and will support those most affected by the unprecedented rainfall and devastating floods in May 2016 which has resulted in tragic loss of life, injuries, missing, displaced and damages. Canadian funding will support up to 62,000 people.

From this allocation CAD 150,000 will support Oxfam’s humanitarian response in Sri Lanka. The four month project (May 20-September 20, 2016) will focus on the sectors of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), non-food items, and cash transfers (cash-for-work for debris clearing) and will assist up to 2,000 families (IDP camps and host families) in the districts of Gampaha, Kegalle, Rathnapura and Puttalam. Oxfam Canada will implement the project with the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society and LEADS (Lanka Evangelical Alliance Development Service).

The remaining CAD 160,000 has been allocated to support the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) appeal for Sri Lanka. Of this amount, an initial disbursement of CAD 30,000 to the IFRC has supported the provision of emergency relief items, WASH, and school items to up to 4,000 families (20,000 people) in the immediate aftermath of the flooding and CAD 130,000 has been provided to IFRC’s revised emergency relief operation to support approximately 40,000 people for 18 months through the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society. The operation will focus on provision of shelter, relief items, livelihood recovery, preventive health, water and sanitation interventions, as well as community-based risk reduction and institutional disaster response capacity enhancement. Canada is supporting this emergency relief operation through the Canadian Red Cross Society.

“Canada and Canadia

Today is the World Tobacco Day, which was declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1988 with the aim to increase awareness of the danger in tobacco and related products.

In order to free people from tobacco-related products, this year’s theme is Get Ready for Plain Packaging. According to WHO, the global tobacco epidemic kills nearly six million people each year, of which more than 600,000 are passive smokers dying from breathing second-hand smoke.

Reducing the tobacco use in the country, Director General of Health Services, Dr. Palitha Mahipala, said several programmes have been implemented to help those addicted to smoking.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to take part in the Rotary International Convention 2016 that was held in Seoul, South Korea.


Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's full speech at the Rotary International Convention :

The Rotary International President Ravindran, The Prime Minister of South Korea, the Honorable Hwang Kyo-ahn, The Secretary-General of the UN, Excellency Ban Ki-moon, Honoured Rotarians and Guests, 

Thank you for inviting me here to Seoul, to help inaugurate the 2016 Rotary International Convention.

It is an honour to be here, and a great source of pride to us in Sri Lanka that you have chosen someone from our rather small country, to head your great organisation this year.

We do not have polio in Sri Lanka. We have not had it now, for more than twenty years. We eradicated it at the height of an armed conflict and terrorism. And the fact that it happened as it did, was due in no small part to you here—to the work of Rotary, and the work of Rotarians at that time in Sri Lanka – inspired by none other than Rotarian President Ravindran.

Back in 1995 a few Rotarians together with the UNICEF got in touch with the Health Ministry. They wanted to do an NID, a national immunization day. Rotary pledged to bring in one and a half million dollars for it, and was looking for the balance from the government, in order to vaccinate the whole country against polio – in one shot.

The officials at the Ministry agreed that it was a good and tested idea; they thought that all children in the country should be vaccinated – except those in the conflict areas of the North and East as the government did not have access or control over those areas at that time.

But the Rotarians had insisted that this was not acceptable as this was Rotary money which could not be used to vaccinate only half the country.

Apparently the Ministry of Health officials had looked at these crazy Rotarians and said, “If you haven’t noticed, there’s a war going on. We don’t have control in the North and the East, so what is it you want us to do?”

The Rotarian President Ravindran had answered them saying, “Don’t worry about it. We’ll take care of the war.”

In the end the Ministry of Health said, OK, go ahead, if you can stop the war, then we can vaccinate the whole country.

A couple of months later your President Ravi came back with a letter, delivered to his office and to the UNICEF office. It was a letter from the LTTE in the North saying, “You can have your ceasefire. We will lay down our weapons, if your Government will lay down yours, on the days designated as NIDays”.

A ceasefire came into being – they laid down their weapons. We laid down ours. And the Rotarians, UNICEF, Red Cross and other health workers went, with their white flags, on their jeeps, into the North and the East of the country where no one would have dared to go.

We called them Days of Tranquility. And they gave us a polio-free Sri Lanka.

And I think those Days of Tranquility, the experience of that NID, also gave us something else. They gave us hope—that we in Sri Lanka, did indeed love our children, more than we feared each other.

This would not have been possible without Ravi. He played a key role in arranging a ceasefire to vaccinate the children in the conflict-affected area. Unlike others, he did not give up hope but plunged into the polio vaccination campaign with a wholeheartedness that only a few display.

In times the country has undergone conflicts and disasters Sri Lankan Rotary has been at the forefront in providing an enormous service to our people. During the tsunami in 2004 Rotary helped to rebuild 25 new schools and a maternity hospital in the aftermath. And I am aware that even in the face of the current crisis in Sri Lanka – floods and landslides during the last few week Rotary has mobilized itself to help out.

We are glad to have Rotary in our country, for we have seen for ourselves that a community with Rotary, in fact, a country with Rotary, is better off, in every way, than one without.
A Rotary club as well as other such service organizations provides a country with something that every community, in every country – needs – irrespective of its stage in development.

It provides a function that is complementary to government; by offering a way for people who want to make a difference in their community to do it for themselves, together, without having to run for office first like me.

And that does not for one moment absolve those of us who are in government of our responsibility. Perhaps the opposite—it provides a greater impetus, for us to do our jobs better.

Your project to globally eradicate polio (only the second time in the history of earth, has this happened), has shown, not just to us in Sri Lanka, but to the world, that Rotary is a tremendously valuable resource to government, not only in developing nations, but in developed countries as well.

You are able to go places where Governments fear to tread, in a way that no one else can emulate. And I think that the governments of the world should begin to take advantage of this, by engaging more with Rotary as a partner, as well as with other service organisations to explore greater avenues for cooperation.

This is a necessity at a time when the roles of the Government and the roles of the service organisations are undergoing massive transformation.

The great financial crisis of 2008 has resulted in many Governments resorting to austerity as a means of reducing their budget deficits. Fiscal stress has led to cutbacks and uncertainty in Government spending- particularly in the social sector. Some Governments have been trimming down the welfare state for decades – on the basis of their structural adjustment programs. In this background, service organisations have a larger role to play in mobilising personnel and resources to fill the gap – created by government withdrawals.

Yet, monetary restraints, budgetary control and reducing the Budget Deficit do not mean that the Governments can abandon responsibility for some of its welfare services. It only means that we have to think of partnerships with service organisations or even contracting out services to service organisations as modes of service delivery – perhaps as a far more effective mode of delivery.

The Public Services too have to undergo transformation with great emphasis on delivery. This is a more cost effective method of the Government discharging its obligations to provide welfare services.

This new model will also require closer cooperation amongst service organisations as well as with government. However it is essential to avoid competition, overlapping and confusion between service organisations at a time when there is blending and blurring of sector distinctions. Governments could thus tap the specializations of service organizations – while of course ensuring their autonomy, where necessary by law.

Another role that service organizations can play is to officially act as an oversight body on the function of a government establishment in their field of expertise. This is already happening in countries like India where for instance, a public trust is overseeing some of the programs of the Indian University Grants Commission. No doubt that this would mean that government establishments would need to pull up their socks – leading to greater efficiency and productivity.

Thus both government and service organizations need to look within – at themselves – in times of change. Do we both have the capacity to be sensitive to – and to respond to – these external changes? One area that requires a lot of work is in the area of women’s representation both in government and in service organizations. Women need to be included not only as members and support groups but also as office bearers at local levels as well as in the highest echelons of governance. I am aware that a number of national Rotary Clubs have taken some initiatives to invite and encompass the entry of women into the workforce, to professions, to entrepreneurialism, and to corporate culture – during the last few decades. However, what is required is a policy decision at the highest ranks to ensure that women’s participation in Rotary is promoted at all levels of the organization.

Then there is also the expanding role of informal volunteerism arising from expanding mobile and internet/web connectivity and the host of social media platforms. The digital age has radically changed the way we communicate and interact with each other. Social media can both complement or replace face-to-face association. It has also extended the community beyond the neighbourhood.

But at the same time, social media has its ills. No doubt you have already understood the degree of alienation from social realities in youth – given the diversity, richness and excitement of cyberspace realities; and no doubt you have already taken steps to target and recruit youth for your organizations. Because as noted earlier, I am sure you will agree with me that the success of a service organisation’s ability depends on its capacity to adapt to evolving changes in the global sphere – and to connect and be close and relevant to the younger generations. It is they who will sustain and drive the service organisation in the next few decades.

This is why we have to ensure that the younger generations are at the centre in service organisations and no longer at the periphery.

We in Sri Lanka have been proud to lend you your President for this Rotary year. He has already made an extensive impact by pruning down the Rotary Board meetings from five days to three, driving down costs and giving recognition to merit. But we will be glad to get him back, when the Rotary year is over in June.

While looking forward to expanding our historic ties with Rotary in the coming years as well as forging new partnerships to engage with the challenges of our times, I give you my best wishes for a very successful 107th International Convention.

Japanese Prime Minister offered a Yen 38 billion ODA loan to Sri Lanka for water purification projects for Kidney diseases and establishment of electricity transmission lines connecting the entire country.

Prime Minister Abe thanks President Sirisena for raising Asia’s voice and explaining the Asian perspective to the Western nations at the G 7 Outreach Summit in Ise Shima in Japan.

Following is the joint media statement of Sri Lanka and Japan

Media Statement Japan

Sri Lanka Summit Meeting May 28, 2016 On May 28, 2016, H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan and H.E. Mr. Maithripala Sirisena, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, held a bilateral summit meeting in Nagoya, Japan, following the Outreach Meeting during the G7 Ise-Shima Summit.

Both leaders shared the view, considering the fact Sri Lanka is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, that the development of the country and strengthening regional connectivity are of critical importance to the prosperity of the entire region. Both leaders reaffirmed that they would strengthen cooperation for the implementation of the Comprehensive Partnership between Japan and Sri Lanka and the Partnership for Quality Infrastructure.

Economic Cooperation

Prime Minister Abe expressed his intention to provide ODA loans, which amount to approximately 38 billion yen, for the construction of transmission lines in the North Central and Eastern Provinces and water supply facilities in the North Central Province, in order to further promote socio-economic development of Sri Lanka. The project of constructing transmission lines will allow the electricity generated at the power plants that Sri Lanka planned in the Eastern Province to be transmitted to the City of Colombo.

Desiring to contribute to national development efforts in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Abe expressed his intention to positively consider the provision of Development Policy Loan (DPL), which supports policy and institutional reform in macro-economic and public financial management, as well as the promotion of the private sector.

Both leaders recognized the importance of port development in Sri Lanka, as a key hub nation in the Indian Ocean given the rising demand and the rapid growth of the region. President Sirisena expressed his appreciation for the Japanese assistance provided thus far in this respect. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan would actively continue its cooperation on the development of the Colombo port and its vicinity under the public and private sector cooperation. Prime Minister Abe also expressed his intention to send survey missions to study the needs and the logistics for hub development of the north port of Colombo and its surrounding areas, as well as the development of the port of Trincomalee.

Prime Minister Abe conveyed Japan’s decision to extend assistance for the development of a master plan of the City of Kandy, which would enable the urban development needs of the ancient city with appropriate consideration for the protection of the cultural heritage. Prime Minister Abe further expressed his intention to send a study mission.

President Sirisena expressed his appreciation for the Japanese assistance.

Both leaders welcomed Sri Lanka’s decision to adopt the Japanese system of Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting (DTTB) and the progress of bilateral work to ensure a smooth transition to the DTTB Japanese system, including the establishment of a bilateral Joint Committee to facilitate implementation of the project and holding the first meeting of the committee in June.

President Sirisena stated that the implementation of Digitalization of Terrestrial Analogue Television has been assigned to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media.

2. Maritime Cooperation

Both leaders welcomed the convening of the first round of the Policy Dialogue at the Senior Official Level of the two Foreign Ministries and the inaugural Sri Lanka-Japan Dialogue on Maritime Security, Safety and Oceanic Issues in January 2016 in Colombo, where the two maritime states reconfirmed the importance of maintaining the freedom of the high seas and maritime order based on the rule of law. As a part of strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries, both leaders also acknowledged the importance of the steady progress of the Project for Maritime Safety Capability Improvement (worth approximately 1.8 billion yen), that includes the provision of two patrol vessels.

3. National Reconciliation and Peace building

Both leaders recognized the importance of the ongoing national reconciliation process in Sri Lanka, and welcomed the exchange of notes regarding the Project for the Establishment of Research and Training Complex at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna (worth approximately 1.7 billion yen) on 18 May, 2016. Prime Minister Abe expressed Japan’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s efforts on national reconciliation, including the contribution by Mr. Motoo Noguchi.

Both leaders decided to establish a Joint Committee with a view to ensure the expeditious implementation of the Joint Declaration on Comprehensive Partnership between Japan and Sri Lanka and to promote concrete cooperation in such areas as economic development, maritime security, national reconciliation and peace building.

President Maithripala Sirisena and the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo held bilateral discussion yesterday (26th May) at Hotel Hilton Nagoya on attracting Indonesian investments to Sri Lanka.


“The current stable conditions in Sri Lanka gives an opportunity for investors for local productions as well as the productions made from imported raw materials, which can be sent for international market”, said President Sirisena. He added that Sri Lanka gives lot of incentives for foreign entrepreneurs to invest in local production.

The Indonesian President requested Sri Lankan cooperation in the activities of Indian Ocean Rim Association, where Indonesia is going to get the Chairmanship.

The attention was also paid on increasing the number of flights of the Garuda Indonesian National Airline to Sri Lanka.

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived this morning (May 26) in Nagoya in Southern Japan to participate in the G 7 Outreach Summit in Ise-Shima, an exotic island south of Nagoya.

The President was received at the airport by Yoji Muto, Japanese Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hideaki Oomura, Governor of Aichi Prefecture, Hideaki Oomura, Ambassador Dhammika Ganganath Dissanayake and other officials and diplomats.

Later a Sri Lankan child received the President on his arrival at the Nagoya Hilton offering a traditional ‘Bulath Atha’.
This afternoon President Sirisena is scheduled to meet Vietnamese Prime Minister Ngyuyn Xuan Phuc for bilateral discussions. They will also discuss the issues to be discussed at the G 7 Outreach Summit sustainable peace, stability and prosperity.

Later Head of Japan External Trade Organization, Hiroyuki Ishige and Onomichi Dockyard President Takashi Nakabe will meet the President.

A leading analyst Ayako Mie of the Japan Times said the G 7 leaders are very likely to seriously discuss and take decisions regarding maritime security of Asian sea lanes, health and gender issues and arrive at some workable solutions. He added that Japan decided to invite countries such as Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea for the purpose of emphasizing the need to support these up coming Asian nations.

In addition to the immense image building and long term benefits that Sri Lanka could get from the G 7 Summit in Ise-Shima, on the sideline of the Summit, there will be a Japan – Sri Lanka bilateral meeting that could generate bountiful results for the benefit of Sri Lanka. The preliminary discussions indicated what Sri Lanka could get from Japan for long term and short term projects.

There is a great interest in Japan about the G 7 Summit. While two major newspapers, Asahi Shimbun and Yomiuri Shimbun carried several features on G 7, in most of the articles on the G 7 Outreach Session carried photographs of President Maithripala Sirisena and articles on his achievements, though there are six other countries among the invitees.

Genji Sukuma, a retired consultant said that Japanese investors would see the invitation to G 7 as a clear signal of positive conditions in Sri Lanka conducive for investments.

The G7 leaders will join their Asian special invitees tomorrow at the Outreach Summit.

President Maithripala Sirisena will leave for Japan today (25th May) to participate in the G–7 Summit, which is to be held on the 26th and 27th in Ise-Shima in Japan.


President Sirisena, the first Sri Lankan leader to the summit was officially invited by the Japanese Prime Minister Shinz Abe as an Outreach Partner.

This year’s summit will be held under the objective to share the key values of democracy, rule of law and human rights by pointing out the best way towards the peace and prosperity.

The attention will also be focused on the global economy and trade, foreign policy, climate change and energy, development, quality infrastructure development, health and women.

Earlier known G8 summit now has become the G7 summit since the membership of Russia was suspended in 2014 over the situation in Ukraine.

Heads of the government of Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Canada along with the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission are the members, who are participating the Summit.

The world leaders hold discussions on global challenges, and make decisions and the outcomes of the meeting are summarized in the form of a declaration.

The summit was founded in the 1970s, by industrialized countries as they encountered various challenges such as the Nixon Shock (the devaluation of the US dollar) and the First Oil Crisis, which led to recognition that there was need for a forum where leaders discussed policy coordination on global economic issues, such as the macro economy, currencies, trade and energy.

President Sirisena will make use of this rare opportunity which has been given to a leader of a non-member country to participate in the G7 Summit to promote the country’s image and attract economic partnerships and investment from the world.

Experts point out that this official invitation for President Sirisena symbolizes the positive attitude of the international community towards Sri Lanka’s way forward as a sustainable democracy and a potential economic hub in Asia.

Water motors worth Rs. 35 million bought with the funds of Senehase Siyapatha, an initiative by Lake House, Dialog, SLBC, Rupavahini and the Disaster Management Centre, was handed over to the Disaster Management Ministry to distribute among those affected by adverse weather conditions.

The water motors were handed over to Disaster Management Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa by Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake at the latter’s ministry yesterday.

Senehase Siyapatha collected contributions upto Rs. 35 million within two days of its initiation. The funds were used to buy water motors for the affected people.

Minister Karunathilake said as soon as the country was affected by the flood and landslide situation, President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe took measures to provide relief for the affected. He said once the flood waters recede the government would take measures to resettle the displaced people.

Minister Priyadarshana Yapa thanked those who took the initiatives to provide relief for the affected.

Mr Karunarathna Paranavithana, Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media will leave for Korea on Sunday (22) to attend the World Information, Communication and Broadcasting ministerial meeting to be held from 24 - 26 May in Incheon, Korea. Ministers or vice ministers of Broadcasting from the 26 AIBD member countries will participateat this meeting to de;liberate on the theme The Role and Contributions ofBroadcasting for future Development . Deputy minister Mr Paranavithana is expected to deliver his speech on the Sri Lankan experience on curaent status of broadcasting technology, success and failure cases of new technology introduced in Sri Lanka.

State ceremony of offering the traditional “Sannas Pathra” to the newly appointed “Maha Nayaka”and the “Anu Nayaka” of the Asgiriya chapter was held yesterday (17th May) at the Temple of the Tooth Relic premises under the patronage of the President Maithripala Sirisena.


The President offered the “Sannas Pathra” to the Maha Nayaka most ven. Varakagoda Sri Gnanasara thero and the Anu Nayaka ven. Anamaduwe Sri Dhammadassi thero following the ancient rituals and Maha Vihara traditions.

Addressing the occasion President Sirisena said, “the conferring of the title of the Maha Nayaka of Asgiri Chapter is a great blessing for the program initiated by the government to build a good human society by protecting the honour of the motherland.”

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Diyawadana Nilame (the Custodian of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) were also present along with a group of devotees.

State Vesak Festival- 2016 will be held from 18th to 24th May in Hambantota district 

centering the Nayigala Rajamaha temple in Weeraketiya.


The inauguration of the festival will be held on Wednesday (18th May) at the Kasagala
Rajamaha Viharaya with the ordination of 35 laymen at the temple premises.

As scheduled, several religious programs will be held on 19th and 20th May at the
Nayigala temple and the full day Sil campaign will be on the Vesak Poyaday (21st May).

President Maithripala Sirisena will participate the main function of the state festival
to be held on Sunday (22nd May) at the Nayigala temple.

The President will grant financial provisions worth Rs. 29.1 millions for the temples
and the Dhamma schools in the district at this occasion. These provisions are provided
by the Ministry of Buddha Sasana. The Ministry will also provide additional Rs.
9 millions for the development proceedings of the Nayigala Rajamaha temple.

In addition, declaring the Nayigala temple as a sacred place, unveiling a
Vesak commemorative stamp, awarding the housing deeds for the parents of the
ordained 35 laymen, and granting dry rations for 250 low-income families will
also take place under the patronage of the President Sirisena.

This will be the first time that a State Vesak Festival is to be held in Southern
Province. According to the Minster of Justice and Buddha Sasana Wijayadasa Rajapakshe,
all the infrastructure facilities will be provided for the pilgrims, who are visiting
the State Vesak Festival.

The government has established total media freedom today and some say it is too much now, Parliamentary Reforms and Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka said. He said when compared with the past, journalists today carry out their duties without fear of abduction, attacks, losing the job, political pressure etc.

"Journalists do not need to leave the country seeking protection," Karunathilaka said at a ceremony in Colombo yesterday to distribute motorcycles among journalists under a concessionary loan scheme. He said in the past, Editors were ordered what to publish and what not to publish.

Sri Lanka has climbed up from 165th place to 141st place in the world media freedom index under this government, the minister said.

Karunathilaka said providing motorcycles is not an election promise made by the government and the government will do everything possible to ensure journalists' welfare. Cabinet approval has been granted for the proposed housing scheme for journalists. Work on the project is progressing. Journalists need to pay only two percent of the interest for the concessionary loan granted to them to buy motorcycles, he said.

"Every possible effort will be made to make journalists' dream a reality. President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have given me the fullest support for this task. My deputy minister and myself are two wheels of a motorcycle and we work together without any problem," he added.

Sri Lanka has improved from its 165th to 141st in the world media freedom index. The Government would further improve on this positive development, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and Co-Cabinet Spokesman Gayantha Karunathilaka said.

Addressing the weekly Cabinet press briefing held at the Government Information Department Auditorium yesterday (May 11), he said that under good governance practiced by this government, Sri Lanka was able to move forward by passing around 20 countries in the world media freedom index.

Health Minister and Co-Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Rajitha Senaratne said that during the past, the former President himself called newspaper editors and threatened them to publish or avoid publishing certain things, but it does not happen at present. Current President Maithripala Sirisena had cut down on his own powers.

President Maithripala Sirisena and the delegation will leave for London tomorrow (11th May) early morning to take part in the “Anti-Corruption Summit -2016” to be held in London on Thursday (12th May).

The Summit commenced under the patronage of the British Prime Minister David Cameron is scheduled to be addressed by the President Sirisena.

Bilateral discussions will be held between the PM Cameron and the Sri Lanka President Sirisena after summit.

On Friday (13th May) the Sri Lankan delegation will depart from London for New Delhi for a two-day official visit in India.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has promised a loan of US $ three billion to Sri Lanka for infrastructure development.

In addition the ADB will grant a separate aid for the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector. The loan facility given under a concessionary interest rate will be given to Sri Lanka through the next three years.

The loan agreement was reached during the 49th ADB Finance Ministers’ summit in Frankfurt, Germany last week. Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake represented the country.

The loan facility given will be allocated to some of the main development projects in the country and will be channelled to develop new railways, port development, electricity distribution network, and highways and transportation systems. The ADB annually lends Sri Lanka about $ 400 to 500 million, however this loan is in excess to this annual amount.

The ADB will give a further US $ 200 million to develop the SME sector.

Launch of the World Export Development Forum (WEDF) 2016, the flagship event of the Geneva-based International Trade Centre (ITC) was held yesterday (5th May) at Cinnamon Grand in Colombo.


The announcement on the WEDF, which is to be held on 12th and 13th October was made by the Sri Lankan Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickreme, Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC) Arancha Gonzales, and the Chairperson and Chief Executive of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) Indira Malwatte.

The theme of the WEDF 2016 is “Trade for Success: Connect, Compete, Change”.

WEDF will bring together more than 600 policymakers, business leaders, and officials from trade and investment support institutions (TISIs) and international organizations to discuss how to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth through trade. A serious of business-to-business match-making events will also be held over the two-day meeting.

Minister Samarawickreme addressing the event said, “countries such as Sri Lanka are dependent on the export of goods and services in their endeavor to create vibrant economies. We are now faced with a new challenge to go beyond the middle income status, he said and added the new government of Sri Lanka has brought in freedom, democracy, transparency and most importantly confidence in us on the part of the international business community. The decision by the ITC to hold the WEDF 2016 in Sri Lanka, symbolizing the international recognition for the business environment that we have created, is a clear message that we are on the right path.”

Ms. Gonzalez expressing her point of view said, "with its central position in South Asia, at the crossroad of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has risen steadily to become a regional business hub."

"Convening the global trade and development community and business representatives in Colombo will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the best of Sri Lanka and allow us to talk business and do business, "she said.

Several MOUs between ITC Geneva and Ministry of Development Strategies and International Trade were also signed during the event and two websites for the forum were also launched.

Minister Rishard Bathiudeen, State Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Sujeewa Senasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry Mrs. Chandani Wijayawardane, and the Chairperson of the EDB Indira Malwatte were also present.

President Maithripala Sirisena will leave for London on May 11 to attend the Anti-Corruption Summit organized by the British government.

British Prime Minister David Cameron, who will host the landmark international summit in London on May 12, has extended an invitation to President Sirisena when the two leaders met at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Malta last year.

The summit, a first of its kind, will bring together world leaders, business and civil society to agree a package of practical steps to expose corruption, punish the perpetrators and support those affected by corruption and drive out the culture of corruption wherever it exists.

The summit will seek to galvanize a global response to tackle corruption. As well as agreeing a package of actions to tackle corruption across the board, it will deal with issues including corporate secrecy, government transparency, the enforcement of international anti-corruption laws, and the strengthening of international institutions.

The President will also visit India on May 13 on an invitation extended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Media institutions should be committed to fulfil their obligations to build a knowledgeable society for the betterment of the human society, emphasized President Maithripala Sirisena.


According to the President, the media have the responsibility to criticize and point out the shortcomings and mistakes and provide accurate information to the public for the betterment of the country.

He made these remarks participating in a ceremony, organized to submit a set of proposals to establish a righteous media culture in Sri Lanka by the Sri Lankan University Teachers Association of Communication and Media Studies, held at the National Library auditorium in Colombo on of 3rd April.

The President further said that the present Government highly values the principles of media freedom and said that in the near future the Right to Information Bill also will be passed in the Parliament.

“Some of the private media institutions work for their own agenda. But it is their responsibility to use the given media freedom for the betterment of the country in a professional manner,” President Sirisena said.
Read 66 times

Introducing structural changes to the media sector is rather important than criticizing the prevailing process, pointed out the Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Karunarathne Paranawithana.

According to deputy minister , the government has taken steps to do structural changes and to uphold free media tradition prevailing in the country.

Deputy Minister stated this Yesterday (3rd May) addressing the monthly lecture program of the Sri Lanka Press Council held at the Department of Government Information auditorium.

According to the Deputy Minister, a policy for the mass media has to be formed through the inclusive policy making system concerning the variety of ideologies of various parties. He also pointed out the practical issues encountered when a technical regulation system and a content regulation system for media is prepared.

Deputy Minister further said that an independent regulation system is required for the media and the Right to Information Bill will support it.

The keynote lecture of the event was presented by Prof.Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa.

Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Nimal Bopage, Director General of the Department of Government Information Dr.Darshanai Gunathilake, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Press Council Koggala Wellala Bandula, and media personnel were present for the occasion.

World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference. Since then, May 3 is celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day.

It is an opportunity to: celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; assess the state of press freedom throughout the world; defend the media from attacks on their independence; and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

In 2016, World Press Freedom Day coincides with a few important milestones:

The 250th anniversary of the world’s first freedom of information law, covering both modern-day Sweden and Finland
The 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Wind-hoek Declaration of press freedom principles
This year’s WPFD focuses on three different aspects of press freedom:
Freedom of information as a fundamental freedom and as a human right
Protecting press freedom from censorship and surveillance overreach AND
Ensuring safety for journalism online and offline
UNESCO and the Government of Finland will co-host the World Press Freedom Day’s main event and the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize Ceremony in 2016 which will take place in Hel-sinki, Finland, from 2-4 May 2016.

“We should take a firm determination to fulfill the aspirations of our people with a firm commitment to make the achieved victories a reality in this May Day in the present context of the Nation entering into a new economic and political process with the new democratic and free approach won on January 08, 2015,” said President MaithripalaSirisena.

Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers Mónica Pinto, and the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, Juan E. Méndez, will undertake a joint visit to Sri Lanka from tomorrow (29th April) to 7th May 2016, at the invitation of the Sri Lankan Government.

While the previous UN Special Rapporteur on torture visited Sri Lanka in 2010, this will be the first visit to Sri Lanka by a Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers.


During their visit, the two Special Rapporteurs will meet with relevant ministers, government officials, members of the judiciary, the Attorney-General, lawyers, civil society members, the National Human Rights Commission, and victims and their families.

In addition to visiting Colombo, they will visit the Northern, North Central, and Eastern, Central and Southern Provinces and also places of detention.


At the conclusion of their visit, the two Special Rapporteurs will share their preliminary observations and recommendations at a press conference to be held on Saturday 7th May 2016 in Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena said the top most priority of the government is to create legal, constitutional and political conditions in Sri Lanka to ensure that corrupt, rotten, autocratic regimes will not come to power in the future. Such undemocratic regimes of family nepotism was a curse on the nation and the way the state resources and finances were swindled is unthinkable, he said.

Newly appointed Secretary to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Nimal Bopage assumed duties today (25th April) at the Ministry premises.

President Maithripala Sirisena has appointed Nimal Bopage as the new Secretary to Ministry of Mass Media. He is schedule to assume duties Today (25th April).

Survey conducted reveals significant improvement in press freedom in Sri Lanka last year as the journalists no longer fear reprisals for expressing their political views.

The Government and people of Sri Lanka are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of many lives caused by the sudden earthquake in Ecuador on 17th April.

Japan will hold an outreach meeting during the G7 Ise-Shima Summit, inviting the heads of state and government of non-G7 countries and chairpersons of international organizations, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced on April 8.


The G7 Ise-Shima Summit will be the first summit held in Asia in eight years. In light of this, this outreach meeting will engage in discussions that explore what is needed to sustain the well-being of Asia, which is steering economic growth as the growth center of the world. From this perspective, the heads of state and government of mainly ASEAN member states, Asian island countries, countries with infrastructure demand and countries dependent on sea lanes will be invited.

From Asia, the heads of state and government of Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea will be invited. In addition, the head of state and government of Chad, the Chairperson of the African Union, will be invited to ensure that the summit’s outcomes connect to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). Furthermore, from international organizations, the chairpersons of the UN, OECD, ADB, IMF and the World Bank will be invited.

In addition to the discussions focusing on Asia, this meeting will also feature issues that Japan, which holds the G7 Presidency, attaches particular importance to from a global perspective, including quality infrastructure investment, health and women.

Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)
Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga :

I have an announcement regarding a meeting that will be held during the G7 Ise-Shima Summit, inviting the heads of state and government of non-G7 countries and chairpersons of international organizations. The G7 Ise-Shima Summit will be the first summit held in Asia in eight years. In light of this, this outreach meeting will engage in discussions that explore what is needed to sustain the well-being of Asia, which is steering economic growth as the growth center of the world. From this perspective, we will invite the heads of state and government of mainly ASEAN member states, Asian island countries, countries with infrastructure demand, and countries dependent on sea lanes.

From Asia, we will invite the heads of state and government of Laos, Viet Nam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea. In addition, the head of state and government of Chad, the Chairperson of the African Union, will be invited to ensure that the summit’s outcomes connect to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). Furthermore, from international organizations, we will invite the chairpersons of the UN, OECD, ADB, IMF, and the World Bank. In addition to the discussions focusing on Asia, this meeting will also discuss the issues that Japan, which holds the G7 Presidency, attaches particular importance to from a global perspective, including quality infrastructure investment, health, and women. (Government of Japan)- CDN

Constitutional Council will meet today (18th April) at the Parliament under the patronage of the Speaker Karu Jayasuriya to select the Inspector General of Police (IGP).


During the meeting special attention will be given on the recommendations sent by the President Maithripala Sirisena on appointing the next IGP and a final decision will be reached.

The decision will immediately be informed to the President by the Council.

Sri Lanka will sign the Paris Agreement on Climate Change at its Signing Ceremony to be held on 22 April 2016 at the United Nations headquarters, New York.

China made a 500 million Yuan outright grant to Sri Lanka and said they would expedite the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries to reduce the trade deficit.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe arrived in China for a three-day official visit yesterday (6th April). He was warmly received by Chinese officials at Beijing airport.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by his wife Prof. Maithree Wickremesinghe and several other ministers.

Constitutional Council assembled yesterday for the first time in Parliament with the mandate to draft a new Constitution with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe appointed to head the Operations Committee.

After a speech, next day I have to go through the newspaper articles in fear of what journalists have reported, Co-Cabinet Spokesman and Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka says.

Closing ceremony of the “Yowun Puraya 2016, the national youth program held in the Air force camp in Sigiriya took place on Saturday (2nd April) with the participation of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.


The Yowun Puraya 2016, held with the intention of improving the leadership skills and the knowledge of the youth leaders. According to the organisers over 5,000 youth leaders representing all the districts and around 100 foreign youth leaders came for this year’s event.

President participating the event inspected the youth camps created by youth teams of all the districts and presented prizes to the youth winners.

Symbolizing the program, which was held after 28 years a stamp was released and it was presented to the President by the Minister of Post, Post services, and the Muslim Religious Affairs Abdul Halim.

Yowun Puraya 2016 was organized by the Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs under the instructions of the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Top government ministers, Chief Ministers of Western and Central Provinces, Commanders of tri-forces, Inspector General Police (Act.), Chairman of the National Youth Service Council Eranda Weliangage were also present.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will leave on a three day state visit to China on April 6 at the invitation of the government of the People's Republic of China.

The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) provides various socio economic and demographic statistics to data users covering a wide spectrum from tudents, researchers to policymakers and international agencies. DCS produce statistics on regular basis from different sources, including censuses, surveys and administrative records.

An open invitation to all those who are interested in Arts

An event to commemorate late Mr Gamini Wijetunghe, a renowned artiste and journalist who contributed in the spheres of media

On 31st March 2016 at 4.00 pm at the Government Information Department Auditorium

President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (March 28) condemning Sunday's terror attack in Lahore, Pakistan as a "dreadful act of cowardice" expressed solidarity with government of Pakistan in their "hour of grief".

The government has ensured media freedom in the North, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha csaid in Jaffna yesterday and urged media institutions to carry reliable and accurate facts.

en

eng

{jathumbnailoff}

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, strongly condemning the Tuesday's bomb attacks in Brussels, has expressed his condolences to King Philippe of Belgium and the victims.

Government of Kazakhstan has extended an invitation to Sri Lanka to participate in “World Expo” 2017 Exhibition.

Addressing the weekly cabinet briefing held at the Government Information Department today (March 17), Minister of Mass Media and Parliament Reforms Gayanatha Karunathilaka said that the “World Expo” exhibition is held once in two years in the prominent capitals of the world under various themes. This year this exhibition will be held under the theme of Future Energy in the city of Astana in Kazakhstan from 10th June to 10th September 2017.

The Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal made by the Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen to appoint a Commissioner General to organize Sri Lanka’s participation in this Exhibition, and to provide opportunities for Sri Lanka’s small and medium scale producers of horticulture and related products and to make them involved in the Exposition through an acceptable mechanism, Minister added.

The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) Sri Lanka, has released the National accounts estimates for the fourth quarter of 2015 and the whole year of 2015.
At a press briefing held to disseminate National Accounts Estimate for the fourth quarter of 2015 and the whole year of 2015, it was stated that at constant prices, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Sri Lanka for the year of 2015 (January to December) has reached up to Rs. Million 8,622,825. The GDP value reported for the year 2014 was Rs. Million 8,228,986 resulting a positive growth rate of 4.8 percent for the year 2015. DCS stated that the estimation of the GDP is done in stages, with estimates generated at each stage being dependent on available data. Estimates for each stage are progressively designated as provisional, revised and final. The final estimates are not subject to further changes. Accordingly the economic growth rate of the country for the year 2014 has been revised from 4.5 to 4.9 percent. The GDP value at current prices for the year 2015 has been estimated as Rs. Million 11,183,220.
The four major components of the economy: Agriculture, Industry, Services and Taxes less subsidies on products has contributed their share to the GDP at constant price (2010) by 7.9 percent, 26.2 percent, 56.6 percent and 9.3 percent respectively in the year 2015. During the year 2015, all the three major economic activities have expanded showing a significantly higher growth rates. It reported 5.5 percent, 3.0 percent and 5.3 percent growth rates respectively for Agriculture, Industries and Services activities.
Among the sub activities of Agriculture, ‘Growing of rice’ and ‘Growing of vegetables’ reported a very high growth rates: 23.3 percent and 24.9 percent respectively and ‘Animal production’ and ‘Growing of oleaginous fruits; including coconut’ reported 8.0 percent and 5.1 percent growth rates respectively during the year of 2015, compared to the year 2014. Meanwhile ‘Growing of tea’ and ‘Marine fishing’ suffered slight falls in the growth rates and reported growth rates of these two economic activities were -2.6 percent and -1.5 percent respectively during the year 2015.
Among the industrial activities, the sub activities of ‘Manufacture of food, beverages and tobacco’, ‘Manufacture of Rubber products’, ‘Manufacture of furniture’ and ‘Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply’ with higher share to the GDP, have shown a considerable growth rates of 5.6 percent, 4.7 percent, 6.7 percent and 7.8 percent respectively, during the year of 2015. In addition both the ‘Mining and quarrying’ and ‘Construction’ activities have reported a decline of 0.9 percent each, over the period under consideration.
2
During the year of 2015, the performance of Services sector was underpinned specially by the sub activities of ‘IT programming consultancy and related activities’, ‘Financial service activities’ and ‘Real estate activities’ which reported significantly higher growth rates of 21.1 percent, 15.8 percent and 9.6 percent respectively compared to the previous year.
At the press briefing, it was revealed that the GDP at constant price for the 4th quarter of 2015 has been estimated as Rs. Million 2,387,136 registering 2.5 percent growth rate compared to the 4th quarter of 2014. GDP growth rates for the1st, 2nd and 3rd quarters of the year 2015 have been reported as 4.4 percent, 7.0 percent and 5.6 percent respectively.
During the 4th quarter of 2015, the Agriculture activities have reported a slight decline by 0.5 percent. In the meantime Industrial and Services activities have recorded positive growth rates of 1.9 percent and 2.7 percent respectively.
According to the DCS, further details on the GDP estimates for the year 2015 have been published in the DCS website: www.statistics.gov.lk.

Published inPresident - Parliament - Prime Ministerfont size decrease font size increase font size Print Email Pro Food/Pro Pack & Agbiz 2016, a food, agriculture and packaging exhibition will be held for the 15th consecutive year from August 12-14 at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Hall, organised by the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association with Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services.

It will be held under the theme ‘From the farm to the kitchen’ denoting the entire chain of the food industry. The highlight at this year’s expo are the two pavilions from the largest global players in the industry - India and China. Over 80 companies from India and China will participate.

The event is set to attract stakeholders from many South East Asian countries as well. The exhibition is supported and endorsed by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

A group of foreign representatives, including 33 Ambassadors and High Commissioners visited underdeveloped areas in the Polonnaruwa district Monday (March 14) with the aim of providing aid to develop these areas.

The delegation commenced their tour from the Medirigiriya, Meegaswewa area and inspected the areas including Wadigawewa, Godapoththa, and Palliyagodalla.

President Maithripala Sirisena hosted a lunch for the delegation in Polonnaruwa.

Following the lunch, the diplomats visited the Mahawelitanna village in the Welikanda Divisional Secretariat as well as the Sinhapura School and Muslim and Tamil villages in Kudapokuna.

The delegation included Ambassadors and High Commissioners of Japan, Netherlands, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Myanmar, Iran, Brazil, Korea, Italy, Pakistan, Egypt, Vietnam and Maldives.

Local Government and Provincial Councils, Minister Faizer Mustapha has organized the tour.

A special survey conducted by the Ministry of Health in 2014/2015 reveals 1.7% of Sri Lankans are blind, while 17% suffer from various visual disorders.

According to this survey, glaucoma accounts for 1% of the total issues. Since Glaucoma does not have any early symptoms and make people incurably blind, all who are above 40 should get their eyes tested at least once in two years.

Glaucoma can be detected early and diagnosed only through examining eyes. The damages are irreversible and medical treatment should be taken daily for lifetime. Undetected and untreated Glaucoma make people completely and permanently blind.

The Chief Prelate (Mahanayake) of the Asgiriya Chapter Venerable Galagama Attadassi Thera has passed away yesterday (March 09) while receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit of the Kandy Hospital.

The Right to Information Bill (RTI) will be presented in the Parliament after receiving the approval of the Northern Provincial Council (NPC).

In statement to the public in commemoration of International Women's Day, President Maithripala Sirisena said the recognition conferred to women in a society is the yardstick with which the development standard of that society can be judged.

Sri Lanka has understood and demonstrated the proverb, "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world," he said in the statement.

'However, when we examine the situation in the present day, after passing several eras of severe economic and social transformation, we have to acknowledge that several issues have arisen regarding the the role of women in society.'

'Even though Sri Lanka was blessed with the first female Prime Minister and the the first female Executive President in the world, the women and children in the country are still facing issues of safety.'

'Women in Sri Lanka are the main source of earning foreign exchange as expatriate workers, apparel industry employees and workers in the plantation sector. But as a nation we cannot be happy about their earnings when we consider the way some of them are exploited, and the insecurity of their careers.'

'Women can only be empowered by providing them the conditions to develop educational and vocational competency to attain secure jobs and remove legal and social barriers that prevent them from reaching positions of social leadership.'

'Demonstrating the government's total commitment and sensitivity regarding the issue, a Bill was passed in Parliament recently, and other political structures.'

'There should be a broad social discourse to ensure that the rights adopted through laws are established in society. International Women's Day falls today and is an ideal platform to continue this discourse on women.'

'The message which is given to society through this years theme for International Women's Day, 'Empowered Women - Sustainable Futures' emphasises the need to empower women for sustainable development. It is a matter of satisfaction that civilized and mature societies without gender discrimination will take this discourse forward', the statement read.

President Maithripala Sirisena said it is people in North and East that suffered and the reconciliation should also originate from people in the South. “It is those people that have to cultivate reconciliation to live peacefully with the victims of the war. It is the mindset of the people that require to be transformed to acquire reconciliation and healing the wounds inflicted by the conflict,” he said.

The Right to Information Bill will be presented to Parliament on March 8 for the first reading.

Mass Media and Parliamentary Reforms Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana said the much-awaited Bill would officially be included in the agenda of Parliament next Tuesday after the first reading is moved.


He said all Provincial Councils have endorsed the draft Bill referred to them.


"There was a slight delay in the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) in giving consent to the Bill, but that was also a technical delay. The NPC endorsed the Bill last week," Paranavithana said.


The deputy minister observed that any concerned party or individual would have the opportunity to challenge the Bill before the Supreme Court within a given period after it is presented for the first reading.


He said a copy of the Bill would be distributed to all MPs on March 8, adding that they could forward their proposals for amendments until the second reading is taken up.


"This Bill is a historical one that can usher revolutionary changes in the public administration and communication sectors if implemented properly. We did not hide anything when formulating it. It was done in a very transparent manner with wide consultation and public participation," he said.


The Bill could be placed in the Order Paper for the second reading, after seven days from the date of the first reading, as per the Standing Orders.


The deputy minister said the date to take up the Bill for the debate would be fixed later.


The Bill provides for the establishment of a Right to Information Commission and the appointment of Information Officers among other things to uphold the people's right to know, Paranavithana said.


The Cabinet Approval for the draft bill was granted on December 2, 2015. It was sent for discussion at the provincial level, before being put to Parliament.


The introduction of the Right to Information Act was a key pledge in the 100-day work programme of the government. The government during the 19th Amendment to the Constitution recognised the Right to Information as a fundamental right.


Although Sri Lanka is a relative latecomer in adopting the RTI, the deputy minister suggested the proposed Bill would be one of the strongest in South Asia and even the rest of the world.

Government exploring the possibilities to digitalize all local cinema halls to uplift the industry.

Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake will visit Northern province on 26th March to meet the provincial journalists to discuss their problems.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Mangala Samaraweera during a three-day visit to New York elaborated on the government's post-conflict peace building mechanisms and the challenges in Sri Lanka's current peacebuilding environment to the key donor countries.

Prime Minister of New Zealand John Phillip Key, who is in Sri Lanka on a two-day official visit, today (24) describing the island nation as the 'Shining Light of Asian Region' said there are enormous opportunities available in Sri Lanka for New Zealand entrepreneurs and investors.

“Children in the North and the South have the same human blood. Therefore, everybody should get together to build up the nation disregarding racial, linguistic and religious differences”, says President Maithripala Sirisena.

Strengthening the long standing close relationships between the Russian and Sri Lankan governments, a co-operation agreement in Mass Communication sector was signed on last Thursday (11) in Moscow city.

The Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake yesterday (16) stated the proposed Constitution should be drafted to fulfil the public expectations and requirements.

President Maithripala Sirisena left for Germany Last morning (15) for a three day official visit at the invitation of the German Chancellor Ms.Angela Merkel. After concluding this tour the President will leave for Austria for a two day official visit.

A organised by the Government Information Department to enlighten journalists on the proposed Constitutional Reforms will be held under the patronage of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka. The program will be held at Visumpaya on tommorow (16) to educate media people about the proposed Constitution and to seek their views.

The UN high commissioner for human rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, paid a visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa this morning (08).

He met the Malwathu Maha Thera today.

During the meeting Malwathu Maha Thera Thibbotuwave Sumangala Thera pointed out that the act of current president Maithreepala Sirisena forgiving the terrorist, who attempted to assassinate him, set the best model for reconciliation prevailing in the country.

The Thera also claimed that the Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher ethnicities of the country work united, and a highest level of reconciliation prevails in Sri Lanka at the moment.

The UN high commissioner for human rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, began a four-day official visit on February 06 to Sri Lanka at the invitation of the Sri Lankan government.

 

Gayantha Karunathilaka, Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media ain his Independence Day message said. "The background is now being prepared for the public to think and act freely. It is a fulfilment of expectations of a public that were suppressed with the deprivation of true freedom, to live freely in a free and independent nation.

The Minister of External Affairs of India, Smt. Sushma Swaraj will undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka from 5-6 February 2016 for the Ninth Session of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Commission, the Foreign Ministry said.

Sri Lanka's Foreign Affairs Ministry said the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein will undertake a four-day visit to Sri Lanka this week.

The opening ceremony of the Commonwealth regional seminar on "Strengthening the role of Parliamentarians in the promotion and protection of human rights" was held Yesterday (Feb.01) morning under the patronage of Sri Lankan Prime Minister and Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs Ranil Wickremasinghe at Cinnamon Lake Side Hotel In Colombo.

The Commonwealth Secretariat, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Sri Lanka branch) will jointly organize a seminar on " the Role of the Parliamentarians in the promotion and the protection of the Human Rights (HR) from February 1st - 3rd for the CPA Asia, India and South East Asia regions.

The western province development project led by Mega Police and Western Province Development Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka will be launched on January 29 at the Independence Square under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, the Mega Police and Western Province Development Deputy Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna said.

There are no articles in this category.

There are no articles in this category.

There are no articles in this category.

There are no articles in this category.

The year 2016 will be the year of building of the economy of the country, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena said and added that a lot of programs will be implemented this year to bring about prosperous lives to all people in this country.

The ceremony to award certificates to the Diploma holders of the "Journalism and Communication study" course (batch iv)) conducted by the Sri Lanka Press Council will be held today (27) at 3.00.p.m at the BMICH under the patronage of President Maithreepala Sirisena.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe addressing the Sri Lanka Investment Conference organized in parallel to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland has said that the Sri Lankan Government has launched a formal and systematic economic plan to regain the position the island nation enjoyed thousands of years ago as the trade and economic hub in Asia.

Physical Fitness Promotion Walk organized by the Ministry of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media to mark the National Sports and Physical Fitness Week was held this morning at the Independence Square under the patronage of Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake and Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranavithana.Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera was also present.

Sri Lanka has declared the week from the 25th to the 30th January as the National Sports and Physical Fitness Week with a view to control Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) which are the leading cause of death in Sri Lanka.

The National Film Cooperation of Sri Lanka has scheduled a number of programs to celebrate the 69th anniversary of Sri Lankan Cinema and the 44th anniversary of the National Film Cooperation which falls on 21 January this year .

A special discussion organized by the Local Teledrama Artistes Unity with the intention of making the local teledrama industry a better industry will be held on 28th January at 2.p.m at the National Library Auditorium in Colombo.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will leave the island today to attend the 46th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The visiting New Delhi based Chilean envoy Andres Barbe discussed the possibility of Chile focusing on exporting goods to the Indian and the rest of the Asian markets, using Sri Lanka as a platform.

The chilean envoy said, "It takes 60-days for us to ship our products to the Indian market from Chile, which is very time consuming and costly,"

Chilean Ambassador Andres Barbe visited the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce last week to explore the investment potential in Sri Lanka.

The Ambassador was welcomed by CEO and Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Mangala P.B. Yapa and Senior Assistant Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Lilakshini de Mel.

Amassador Barbe further said that minerals, forestry, agriculture value addition, such as producing wines and also fruits are some of the county's biggest industries. He also said that he will work to bring a high level Chilean delegation soon to Sri Lanka to further discuss available opportunities.

CEO and Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Mangala P.B. Yapa said Chile can use the tax-free Hambantota Port as a hub to focus on the South Asian market and the rest of Asia as Sri Lanka is connected to the global maritime route.

According to Andres Barbe said that Chile has signed 24 Free Trade Agreements with different nations and the country strongly believes in free trade. Chile is in the South American region.

The Minister of Mass Media and Parliament Reforms Gayantha Karunathilake said the present government has not stopped development activities and what the government has stopped is committing frauds from development projects.

The Minister said this during a function to provide housing aid to low income earning families in the Bentota area. 53 families were granted housing aid during the function which took place at Bentota Divisional Secretariat office.

Speaking on the occasion Minister Karunathilake said, the government would continue with the development work done by the previous administration.

Indian Foreign Secretary Dr S Jaishankar said India highly appreciates the statesman-like approach of President Maithripala Sirisena. “Not only Sri Lanka, but we in New Delhi also highly appreciate the speech made by Your Excellency in Parliament last week,” he said when he paid a courtesy call on the President at the Presidential Secretariat Yesterday (January 13).

A celebration to mark the 150 years completion of the first newspaper of Sri Lanka ‘Gnanartha Pradeepaya’, was held yesterday (Jan. 11) at the Cardinal’s House in Colombo under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena.

President Maithripala Sirisena participated in the Cultural Show “One Nation – Great Power” held on Saturday (Jan. 09) in the Independence Square premises in Colombo to mark the one year completion of the democratic governance. The Cultural Show has been organized by the Ministry of Mass Media.

World Leaders have congratulated new President Maithripala Sirisena on his victory at the 2015 Presidential Election.

US President Barack Obama has congratulated the people of Sri Lanka on the successful and peaceful conclusion of Sri Lanl election and incoming President Maithripala Sirisena on his victory.

President Barack Obama adds that beyond the significance of this election to Sri Lanka, it is also a symbol of hope for those who support democracy all around the world.

President Obama goes on to say that, at this moment of hope, the United States looks forward to deepening its partnership with the people and government of Sri Lanka and to working with President Sirisena to advance peace, democracy, and prosperity for all Sri Lankans.

British Prime Minister David Cameron in his congratulatory message to President Maithripala Sirisena says that the peaceful, democratic elections are a credit to all those involved and the people of Sri Lanka.

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Julie Bishop says that the Australian Government congratulates Maithripala Sirisena on his election win and wishes him well in implementing his mandate for democratic reform, good governance and anti-corruption.

Her statement adds that Australia looks forward to working with the new government in support of its agenda, to further develop strong bilateral relationship, and to address shared regional and global challenges.

High Representative of the European Union and Vice President and Head of the European Defence Agency Federica Mogherini while congratulating President Maithripala Sirisena adds the EU will continue to support Sri Lanka in its development as a prosperous and inclusive democracy for the benefit of all its citizens.

Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam has written to President Maithripala Sirisena, congratulating him on his victory in the Presidential election citing that his victory is a testament of the faith that the people have in his leadership.

The letter, adding that Singapore has consistently supported national reconciliation, peace and progress in Sri Lanka, goes on to say that the Singapore President hopes that the positive momentum in Sri Lanka’s reconstruction and development efforts will continue.

Also congratulating President Maithripala Sirisena on his victory, Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom noted that through the election, Sri Lankans have demonstrated yet again the strength of the country’s democracy and the resilience of its institutions.

font size decrease font size increase font size Print Email The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway, Børge Brende is on a one-day official visit to Sri Lanka, at the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mangala Samaraweera.

Minister Brende will hold bilateral discussions with Minister Samaraweera at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this morning (07), following which the two ministers will address the media at 11.40 a.m. Minister Brende will call on President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Leader of Opposition R. Sampanthan, and former President Chandrika Kumaratunga in the afternoon of 7 January.

In the evening at 5.30 p.m., Minister Brende will attend a Business Forum organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

The visit is expected to focus on economic and development cooperation and explore ways to strengthen and enhance bilateral relations.


The last visit by a Foreign Minister of Norway took place in 2005.

A ceremony to launch the first ever official Mobile App of the Parliament of Sri Lanka will be held Today (07) at 10.30 a.m. at the Committee Room no. 1 of Parliament.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (5th January) announced the ‘Pakistan Single Country Exhibition 2016,’ thereby boosting the long-standing commercial ties between the nations and inviting businesses of the two countries to tap into the growth potential of each other’s economies and leading economies to which they enjoy preferential trade access.

Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif arrived in the Sri Lanka's capital Colombo yesterday evening to hold meetings with the Sri Lankan leadership on issues of mutual interest.

At the invitation of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, will undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka from 4 to 6 January 2016.

Ministry of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media commenced work for the new year today, 01st January 2016 following blessings by clergy of Buddhist, Hindu, Catholic and Islam religious, at the Ministry premises.

With each dawn of new year, we spontaneously keep hope in terms of our personal as well as social living. Therefore, this time of leaving behind a year to welcome another new year, is a time of enthusiasm, which creates fresh hope in the minds of all.

The 12th Rupavahini State Awards Ceremony -2015, organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs on the direction of the Ministry of Internal Affairs , North-Western Development and Cultural Affairs will be held on Dec.28 at 6.00 p.m. at Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Colombo 07.

Mr. Priyankara Jayarathne sworn in as the State Minister of Local Government and Provincial Councils, before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat Monday (Dec. 21).

The ceremonial awarding of scholarships for the awardees selected for the year 2015 under “Asi Disi’ Media Scholarship programme will be held on Friday (18) at the Auditorium of the Ministry of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media under the patronage of the Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake with the participation of the Deputy Minister Karunarathne Paranavithana.

President Maithripala Sirisena called on His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican on Monday (14). Pope Francis expressed his happiness over the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him when he visited Sri Lanka last January and said that Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation with friendly people, the President's Media Unit reported.

Please submit your views, proposals, and comments on the draft Act on Right to Information to the following address or email address.

Download PDF

Address
Secretary,
Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms & Mass Media,
"Asidisi Meduara", No. 163,
KirulaponeMawatha,
Polhengoda,
Colombo 05

Email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Right to Information Bill (RIT) will be presented before the Parliament at the beginning of the next year and the Bill would ensure media freedom, which is the biggest benefit that we have given to journalists, said the Minister of Mass media and Parliament Reforms, Gayantha Karunathilake last Saturday in Parliament.

The United Nations General Assembly designated 11 December “International Mountain Day”. As of 2003, it has been observed every year to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to build alliances that will bring positive change to mountain peoples and environments around the world.

'Promoting mountain products' is the theme chosen for this year’s celebration of International Mountain Day. Globalization offers opportunities for mountain producers to market their high quality mountain products, such as coffee, cocoa, honey, herbs, spices and handicrafts at the national, regional and international levels. Though mountain agriculture cannot compete with the prices and volumes of lowland production, it can concentrate on high value, high quality products to boost local economies.

Tourism-related services such as skiing, climbing, cultural heritage or nature trails that allow visitors to discover unique biodiversity are also some of the offerings provided by mountains and mountain communities. If sustainably managed, tourism can provide an opportunity for development in mountain regions.

International Mountain Day 2015 provides an occasion to highlight how mountain communities are protecting biodiversity by producing a large variety of typical products and providing crucial goods and services to all of us.

Sri Lanka's Prabhawa environmental organization of Haputale, Sri Lanka,  organized the first International Mountain Day in 2010 at the Haputale mountain peak, 5850. feet above mean sea level. Thereafter yearly they have been observing this day through mountain climbing and other various events.

This year too, the Prabhava Environmental organization together with the old and the young celebrated the International Mountain Day on Dec.06 at Haputale mountain peak. The march started from the Haputale Municipal Council  and was headed by the former deputy Mayor Sampath Lamahewa, . Head of Prabha organization Asanka Prabath Ratnayake, Corporate Director Ranjith Kumar, President Gayashan Kumara.

Furthermore,  religious events also took place at  Sri Muthumariyamman Kovil., Prabhava Akasha Samagi Temple and Suranga Muni Kovil.

The Local Government Public Service should be strengthened by recruiting qualified people, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana said in Parliament yesterday.

He was joining the committee stage debate of the Budget 2016 for the fifth allotted day under the financial heads of the Megapolice and Western Development Ministry and Social Empowerment and Welfare Ministry.

“There will be a massive transformation in the local government sector of the country by 2016. Electoral boundaries have been demarcated. A committee has been appointed to look into grievances. These activities will be completed prior to the local government election,” the Deputy Minister said.

He further said that amendments will be made to the Local Government Election Act to increase women representation. 

One-day Training Workshop for 75 Research Assistants attached to the staff of the Members of Parliament will be held on 10.12.2015 from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. in the Auditorium (New Building) of the stage II of Sethsiripaya under the patronage of Hon. Gayantha Karunathilake, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media. 

As a government, the responsibility to build a healthy nation will be fulfilled through the government’s policy on alcohol and tobacco, said Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena. He added that the government will address the issue of the non- infectious diseases, faced by the world community and will do the best to build a healthy nation.

Pandith W. D. Amaradeva celebrated his 88th Birthday on Saturday. Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilleke who visited him at his residence has assured to build the Amaradeva Academy soon. Minister Karunathilleke after wishing him said that an Academy similar to India’s Rabindranath Tagore Academy, should be built to honour Pandith Amaradeva.

Mr. Karunarathne Paranavithana was sworn in as the Deputy Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media before the President yesterday (04) at the President's office in Parliament.

Deputy Minister of Parliamantary Reforms & Mass Media Karunarathna Paranawithana assumed duties today (04) at the Ministry of Parliamantary Reforms & Mass Media.

lasantha alagiyawanna

Hon. Lasantha Alagiyawanna
Deputy Minister
Ministry of Finance and Mass Media

 

The Cabinet has approved the Right to Information (RTI) Bill. It will be forwarded to Parliament in January 2016, Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne said. He made this observation at the Cabinet press briefing at the Government Information Department yesterday.

The second reading of the appropriation bill 2016 was passed yesterday at the Parliament with 159 votes in favour, 59 against. 13 MPs including former President Kurunegala District MP Mahinda Rajapaksa were absent.

The Government Information Department has organized a one day workshop for Colombo district Tamil Medium students, today (02) under the patronage of Director General of Government Information Department Dr. Darshani Gunathilaka.

As a developing country and a tropical island nation, Sri Lanka is highly exposed to the impact of climate change. Changes of temperature, rainfall variation, and sea level rise will directly impact almost all sectors of our economy, including agriculture, fisheries, livestock, water, biodiversity, health, human settlements, tourism and transport.

Following is the full text of the speech made by President Sirisena at the opening ceremony of the CHOGM:

The 22nd Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting will commence today (27) at the Fort St. Angelo, Birgu in Malta under the theme of 'The Commonwealth – Adding Global Value'.

President Maithripala Sirisena, the Commonwealth Chair-in-Office, is scheduled to arrive in Malta this afternoon, to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.

In another attempt to strengthen the cultural ties between South Korea and Sri Lanka and share the rich Korean cinema with Sri Lankan filmgoers the Korean Film Festival in Colombo will be held from December 4 to 7 at the National Film Corporation (NFC) Theatre in Colombo.

Sri Lanka's inflation in October 2015 determined under a new National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) rose to 3.0 %, the Department of Census and Statistics said on Monday.

The first budget of the National Government presented by Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake in Parliament yesterday, proposes to provide relief to people by reducing the prices essential commodities.

US Permanent Representative to the United Nations,  Samantha Power is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today (Nov. 23).

The meeting will be held at Temple Trees.

Second Reading of the Appropriation Bill for Budget 2016 (Budget Speech) will take place today (20) at the Parliament, said the Deputy Secretary-General of the Parliament Mr.Neil Iddawala.

Today (20) the Parliament is schedule to meet at 2.00 pm and the Minister of Finance Ravi Karunanayake will present the Budget Speech, Deputy Secretary-General said.

The debate of the second reading will be held for 9 days from November 21 while the vote on the Second reading will take place at 5.00 pm on December 02.

The Committees stage Debate will commence on December 03 and will held for 15 days and the vote on the Third Reading will take place on December 19 at 5.00, said Mr.Iddawala.

Chang Won-Sam, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka paid a farewell call on Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka, at the Ministry yesterday.

President Maithripala Sirisena presented a special cabinet paper to Yesterday’s (Nov 18) cabinet meeting regarding the abolishing of executive presidency and introducing a new electoral system for its approval, thus fulfilling a pledge given in the Presidential election manifesto, under the theme “A Compassionate Maithri Governance-A Stable Country”. He was the opposition common Candidate at the Presidential Election held on January 8, 2015.

Sri Lanka is a important country situated on the Maritime Silk Road. Our main objective is to give a true understanding about China, said Guo Zhaojin, China National institute of publication development Association President at a meeting with Gayantha Karunathila, Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Reforms Minister Yesterday(17) at the Media Ministry in Colombo.

The first session of the Foreign Office Consultations between Sri Lanka and Bhutan concluded in Colombo on Monday(16). The Bhutan delegation was led by Mr. Tshering Dorji, Foreign Secretary, while Ms. Chitranganee Wagiswara, Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs led the Sri Lanka delegation.

President Maithripala Sirisena congratulated the leader of the National League for Democracy, Aung San Suu Kyi on her historic landslide victory in the elections. The President also referred to her fearless campaigning for democracy in Myanmar for decades. The bilateral, religious, cultural and trade relations between our two countries are existing for over hundreds of years, he said.

President Maithripala Sirisena says as a nation that has undergone much suffering due to terrorism, Sri Lanka unreservedly condemns terrorist attacks in Paris.

Issuing a message of condolence, the President states the international community must unite to collectively combat the menace of terrorism and extremism.

Following is the full text of the message issued by the President;

The planetarium has set up camp in Tangalle and made arrangements to observe the debris of the rocket which is expected to re-enter the atmosphere and fall into the sea 62 miles off the Southern coast of Sri Lanka around 11.45 am today.

The Sri Lankan Community was deeply grieved to hear the untimely demise of Ven. Maduluware Sobitha Thera who had won the hearts of the public including all Buddhists, said Parliamentary Reforms and Media Minister and Chief Government Whip Gayantha Karunatilleke in a condolence message yesterday.

The Government has requested the public to display yellow flags at homes and for all government institutions to display the national flag at half mast to express condolence over the passing away of the Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera.

The country has lost a great monk who engaged in a just struggle for several decades to realize the dream of a good governance. The late prelate Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero was not limited to any party, community or religion. He included his name as a supreme landmark in Sri Lanka’s history.

The Sri Lankan government has declared next Thursday (12) a national day of mourning for the death of the revered Buddhist leader Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha, who died early Sunday morning at a hospital in Singapore.

International Film Festival Colombo 2015 (IFFC Colombo 2015) will take place from the 6th to the 11th of November in several venues of Colombo. This major international film festival organized by the Film Directors’ Guild of Sri Lanka and partnered by Ceylon Theatres and National Film Corporation, showcases films from a variety of countries and varied cinema disciplines.

President Maithripala Sirisena who is on a four day state visit to Thailand met the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand at the Sra Pathum Palace Yesterday (Nov. 4).

President Sirisena was warmly welcomed by the Princess at the Palace and said when she visited Sri Lanka she learnt the hospitality of its people and she further said that Sri Lanka is a beautiful country.

Sri Lanka Philatelic Bureau of the Department of Posts issued two new postage stamps in the denominations of Rs. 10.00, and Rs. 50.00 and a souvenir sheet on Monday (Nov.02) to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Thailand during the state visit of President Maithripala Sirisena to Thailand.

01. Building Complex for the Faculty of Healthcare Sciences, Eastern University of Sri Lanka

The Faculty of Healthcare Sciences of the Eastern University, which is situated in Batticaloa, was established in 2004 with six departments, and 425 students are currently following degree courses in medicine, surgery and nursing.

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived at the Suvarnabhumi Airport of Thailand yesterday afternoon on a four-day state visit to Thailand on an invitation that was extended by the Prime Minister of Thailand.

Arrangements are being made by Government Film Unit of the Department of Government Information to conduct a Workshop on Documentary and Short Film Making in Colombo at the Auditorium of the Government Information Department from December 14 - 18, 2015 with the honorarium contribution of Asian Film Centre.

This workshop will be conducted by K. Hariharan, a renowned Chennai-based Indian film maker. A graduate in Film Direction from the Film & Television Institute of India, Pune, Hariharan is considered an excellent teacher on cinema. He is the Professor of Creative Science and Dean, Students & Operations at Mahindra Ecolo Centrale, Hyderabad and visiting lecturer in the South Asia Regional Studies Department of Cinema Faculty of the University of Pennsylvania since 1995. He also functions as a guest lecturer at the Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; Film & TV Institute of India, Pune and the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai.

Before joining the Mahindra Ecolo Centrale, Hyderabad he was the Director of the LV Prasad Film & TV Academy, where at an ambitious and pioneering project promoted by the Prasad Group in Chennai, he along with his team conducted a two year program to groom competent Filmmakers, Television producers and technicians. The overall objective of this Institute, which is housed within a spacious state of the art LV Prasad studio complex, is to create filmmakers with a more holistic vision of Cinema as an extension of the study of liberal arts.

Duding an artistic carrier which spans over a period of three decades Hariharan has made seven feature films in Marathi, Tamil and Hindi Languages. Three films among them won national and international awards and screened at the prestigious Berlin, Edinburgh, Moscow and Vladivostok international film festivals. He has also directed three films for the Children’s Film Society of India. He has enormously contributed to the field of documentary and educational films over the years.

He has served on the juries of several international film festivals including Trivandrum, Tallinn, Jeonju and the MIFF event in Mumbai as the chairperson.

This workshop will be conducted in English medium, and the five day workshop will include lectures on short/documentary film making, shooting, editing and making of a finished product.

At the conclusion of the workshop a valuable certificate with the signature of Mr. K. Hariharan will be awarded to the participants.

Relevant details could be obtained from Lal Wijetunga (0714413388 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), Tharindu Jayatissa (0711342232 /This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), at the Department of Government Information or Asian Film Centre via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

The Government has decided to issue new Electronic National Identity Cards from January next year utilizing modern technology.

The Government is mulling over the issue of new Electronic National Identity Cards to all Sri Lankan citizens with effect from January next year, Minister Ravi Karunanayake said.

A walk organized under the national program “Daruvan Pana MenSurakimu (Protect Children with Our Lives) commenced last morning (Oct. 25), with participation of President Maithripala Sirisena.

This has been organized by Sri Lanka RupavahiniCorporation (SLRC) for the betterment of the children of the nation. The program aims at protecting the rights of children, creating a better future for children and protect them.

The United Nations in Sri Lanka yesterday celebrated the 70th anniversary of the world organization and the 60th anniversary of Sri Lanka becoming a member state of the UN.

01. Provide studying opportunities to the foreign Army officers/ other ranks of Middle East Region at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, which is administrated under the Ministry of Defence, holds the full membership of the Association of Commonwealth Universities in UK. It allows foreign officers/ cadet officers and students to follow degree courses as a means of improving the friendship and diplomatic cooperation with countries in the African and Asian region.

President Maithripala Sirisena says Sri Lanka is ahead of other countries in South Asia in protecting environmental standards. “My aim is to take Sri Lanka at least to 25th position of the Index of Protecting Environmental Standards, from its current position of 69”, he added.

President Maithripala Sirisena expressed deep appreciation to China for providing continuous assistance for development of Sri Lanka.

He made these remarks when he met with a group of senior delegation of the Communist Party of China, headed by the Party’s Deputy Leader and Mr Zhang Baowen, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, at the President’s Official Residence in Colombo on Tuesday (20).

Sri Lanka's World Statistics Day 2015 programme includes many events targeted at increasing awareness about official statistics amongst various user groups. The event “WSD forum 2015” will be held on 20th October 2015 at JAIC Hilton Hotel Colombo with the participation of Niroshan Perera, State Minister of National Policy & Economic Development, as the Chief Guest.

Interview under the National Program on providing duty free Motorcycle for Journalist will be held on Monday (19) at the Ministry of Parliament Reform and Mass Media from 9.00am.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that all the institutions, Ministers and MPs and officials, including Provincial Councils, Local Governments and the Urban Development Authority must work unitedly to implement the proposals included in the Kandy city development plans by various institutions.

A national programme for environmental conservation has been prepared with the view of creating a sustainable environment in Sri Lanka, with the contribution of all the relevant parties and it is expected to provide solutions for the following major environmental issues within a period of three years.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will leave for Singapore today (15) on a two day official tour. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe is accompanied by International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrema for this tour. Prime Minister will have high level bilateral discussion with Prime Minister of Singapore and few of its other major ministers. The purpose of this visit is to obtain support and funding in Singapore for the proposed massive development program to be implemented in Sri Lanka.Further this visit is expected to attract Singaporean investors to participate for the economic revolution carry out in Sri Lanka.

Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka says Vijaya Kumarathunga was a person who always honoured the policies he respected. Therefore, his politics is exemplary to all. The Minister pointed out Vijaya Kumarathunga always spoke on behalf of the people he loved. Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka made these remarks at the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of the veteran actor organized by the Vijaya Kumarathunga memorial fan club.

Senior Supreme Court Judge, Justice Eva Wansundera took oaths as the Acting Chief Justice before President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (12).

Justice Wanasundera will act as CJ during the absence of Chief Justice K Sripavan who is currently abroad.

When the new government works with the media ending the era of disappearances, white van abductions and interferences of any kind, the responsibility of the media is to not to isolate the government politically, President Maithripala Sirisena said.

He made these observations participating at the 60th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Press Association at the BMICH yesterday.

World Post Day is celebrated each year on 9 October, the anniversary of the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874 in the Swiss capital, Berne. It was declared World Post Day by the UPU Congress held in Tokyo, Japan, in 1969.

01. Grant and Technical Assistance of Euro 43.7 million from the European Union

The European Union has agreed to provide a grant (a non-repayable financial aid) of 43.7 million Euros out of which 38 million Euros in support of the Integrated Rural Development Programme in Central and Uva Provinces and for Trade Related Assistance programme in Sri Lanka, and 5.7 million Euros as technical assistance to the Water Supply and Drainage Board.

Out of the 38 million Euros, 30 million Euros of the grant are expected to be utilized in Integrated Rural Development Programme in Central and Uva Provinces. The programme intends to improve livelihood, income level, health and nutrition of low income receivers of the said provinces and to strengthen the social and economic services rendered by Local Government Institutions, Community Organizations, and Private Institutions. Other 8 million Euros are intended to be utilized in Programme for Trade related Assistance in Sri Lanka, which intends to increase the competitiveness of Sri Lankan exports in the foreign market, implementation of policy and regulatory reforms on GSP+ of the European Union, and to implement a Trade Policy that includes measures to be implemented on regaining the GSP+ trade concession. Moreover, the 5.7 million Euros to be given to the Water Supply and Drainage Board for technical assistance programme, will grant technical assistance in Institutional Management and Technical Skills Development with special attention on Waste Water Management.

The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as the Minister of National Policy and Economic Affairs, to enter into relevant agreements on this purpose, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Registration of Persons, Issuance of Electronic National Identity Cards and establishment of National Register of Persons

Although the Cabinet approval has already been granted to establish the National Register of Persons and to issue an Electronic National Identity Card, with the authority vested in the Department of Registration of Persons by the Registration of Persons Act No 32 of 1968, the process has been delayed due to various technical reasons. The proposal made by Hon. S.B. Navinna, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wayamba Development and Cultural Affairs, to plan and implement the relevant project with regard to the issue of an Electronic National Identity Card for all citizens who are eligible to obtain a National Identity Card, within a period of two years, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

03. Strengthening of Regional Industrial Estate Development Programme

Twenty nine (29) Industrial Estates have been established in government lands under the above programme by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce with the view of promoting industries in regional level which have created various direct and indirect occupations and other economic benefits. The joint proposal made by Hon. M.K.A.D.S. Gunawardena, Minister of Lands and Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce, to simplify the process of granting lands in order to encourage investors, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

04. BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters

In the seventh meeting of the Combined Working Committee on anti-terrorist and Transnational crimes of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation – BIMSTEC) held in August this year in Bangkok, the member states comprising Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal, , Thailand, have agreed on the Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in criminal matters.

Provisions that enables Sri Lanka on exchanging assistance with foreign countries in such situations, are being offered by the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act No. 25 of 2002. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Dr. Wijedasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to sign and ratify the BIMSTEC convention, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

05. Providing provisions for Pre-Trial Procedures

Long delays in trial procedures have undermined public confidence in the judicial system and the public is confronted with serious financial problems with this situation. Various measures have been taken to solve the problem but a large number of trials are still on progress. The proposal made by Hon. Dr. Wijedasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to draft amendments to the Civil Procedure Code enabling to introduce Pre-Trial Procedures to solve this issue, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

06. Construction of a building for the Sri Lanka Anti-doping Agency

The Sri Lanka Anti-doping Agency is established under article 10 of the Convention against Doping in Sports Act. No. 33 of 2013 with the intention of working in cooperation with international organizations on anti-doping activities in sports. The proposal made by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekera, Minister of Sports, to build the headquarters building of the said institution at the Sugathadasa Stadium premises at a cost of 237 million rupees and to purchase necessary equipment for the institution, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

07. Establishment of the Policy Development Office

Sri Lankan economy should be restructured to achieve the next step of the economic development. It is necessary to review and strengthen the institutional framework which implements the development programmes. The proposal made by Hon. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, to establish a Policy Development Office attached to the Prime Minister’s office to assist the Cabinet of Ministers in policy making, reviewing, coordination and implementation of policies, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

08. Construction of 03 three storied Buildings to provide accommodation for Cadet Officers of the Defence Services Command and Staff College


The Defence Services Command and Staff College established by the Act No 05 of 2008 is the highest defence services professional educational institute in Sri Lanka. The college plans and implements courses for staff officers in armed forces and public services, to train them in discharging their duties effectively. Few foreign officers are also enabled to follow a residential course as a means of mutual cooperation with friendly states. The proposal made by Hon. Ruwan Wijewardena, Acting Minister of Defence, to construct 03 Nos. of three storied buildings to provide quality accommodation for the said officers at a cost of Rs. 120 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

09. Reconstruction and relocation of buildings of Automobile Engineering Training Institute, affected by the construction of a new bridge over the Kelani River

The Japanese International Cooperation Agency has granted a loan amount of Japanese Yen 35,020 million for the project of constructing a new bridge over the Kelani River. The Automobile Engineering Training Institute which was established in a land acquired for this purpose needs to be relocated. Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of University Education and Highways, to award the contract of reconstruction of the buildings for the said institution at a cost of Rs. 1,539.8 million at the Orugodawatta Vocational Training Authority premises, as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

10. Contract for Consultancy Services for implementation of Landslide Rectification measures for selected roads under the Climate Resilience Improvement Project

The proposal made by Hon.Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of University Education and Highways, to award the contract for consultancy services on researching, planning and supervision of constructions for implementation of the above project funded by the International Development Association at a cost of Rs. 146.17 million to the National Building Research Organization as recommended by the Cabinet Appointed Standing Procurement Committee, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

11. Appropriation Bill for the Financial Year 2016

Estimates of revenue and expenditure have been prepared for the year 2016 as per the discussions held with relevant ministries, provincial councils and other parties, based on the total resources that can be obtained in the financial year 2016, government’s policies and priorities. Overall expenditure of 2016 is estimated as Rs. 3,138 billion and the estimated revenue is Rs. 1,789 billion inclusive of foreign grants. The proposal made by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance, to table the Appropriation Bill for the year 2016 in the parliament, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

12. Construction of temporary structures to house the High Court Complex, Colombo until the completion of its repair and renovation.

High Court Complex, Colombo constructed during the British Rule is now in a state of dilapidation. Therefore, there exists an urgent need to carry out an extensive renovation to these buildings. At present 08 High Courts, 03 Commercial High Courts, and 08 District Courts are housed in these buildings. A need arises to shift the old High Court Complex to a separate location on temporary basis so as to effect an extensive renovation. A land belonging to the B.C.C. Ceylon Co. Ltd has been selected for this purpose and 04 structures have already been constructed by the Sri Lanka Army. Infrastructure such as water, electricity, and sewage should be provided and sanitary facilities, car parks, access roads, prison cells, Registrar’s Office, Record Room, and Production rooms should be constructed. The proposal made by Hon. Dr. Wijedasa Rajapaksa, Minister of Justice, to award the construction work to Engineering Division of the Sri Lanka Army at a cost of Rs. 87.7 million, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

13. Construction of Four Storied Building Complex for the Ministry of Public Administration and Management

Establishment of several divisions that can be considered as Departments which are already functioning within this ministry premises will lead to a lot of administrative issues. Since the divisions of Accountants Services Board and Planning Services Board operated earlier under the Ministry of Finance have now been brought under the Ministry and those divisions have also been established within the Ministry premises, the ministry has encountered an issue regarding space at present. Hence, the proposal made by Hon. Ranjith Maddumabandara, Minister of Public Administration and Management, to build a four storied building in the ministry premises removing several temporary buildings, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

14. Review of the agreement on Colombo Port City Development project

The Cabinet approval has already been granted to extend the agreement between Colombo Port City Development Project Company and the Government of Sri Lanka from 06 months. The proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, Minister of Ports and Shipping, to appoint a committee consisting of senior officials headed by the Secretary to the Prime Minister to review and make recommendations to the Ministerial Committee on Economic Management, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

15. Preliminary Report on Total Blackout occurred on 27th September 2015

The explanation made by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) on the total blackout occurred on 27th September 2015, was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers by Hon. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Minister of Power and Energy. He explained that the total failure has occurred due to system instability as a result of the low demand beyond the anticipated level, due to bad weather condition and long weekend and increase of power generation from mini hydro and wind plants. The Cabinet of Ministers have requested the Minister to appoint a committee of experts to conduct a fair investigation in this regard and to make recommendations for preventing such incidents in the future and to present its report within three weeks.

16. A New Model Village Programme ensuring land, housing and settlements

In consequence of the “Shelter for All” development programme based on participatory development implemented by the present government, many people aspiring to own a house of their own have been able to construct houses of higher value over the past few months by contributing their own labour and savings to the limited financial support extended by the government. However there are many families that were not benefitted by this programme. The Ministry of Housing and Construction has planned to implement a new model village programme to benefit the said community. Under this programme, it is intended to implement 38 housing projects and each project consists of 28 houses and a concessionary loan of Rs.250,000 will be provided for a house. Total cost is estimated as Rs. 240 million. The proposal made by Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing and Construction, to implement this programme, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The Consultative Committee of Parliamentary Affairs on Wednesday (07) decided to live telecast the first two hours of the Parliament's proceedings overRupavahini with effect from today, October 08.

Sri Lanka has declared October 8, as the National Day of Pensioners to give due recognition to them and to look into their needs.

Department of Pensions (DoP) will hold an International Symposium on the theme Towards National Pension Framework today (8) at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the participation of Speaker Karu Jayasuriya as the Chief Guest.

The keynote address will be delivered by Director of Government Administration Department, Malysia Dato Yeow Ching King.

Director General of Pensions S.S.Hettiarachchi said that they expect the Symposium to provide an opportunity for a productive dialogue on the importance of having a National Pension Framework.

Several Foreign Representatives, Cabinet Ministers, Heads of State and private organizations, donor organizations, NGOs, professionals, academics, representatives from civil society organizations and Pensioners Organizations will be participating.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasingh addressed theJapanese Parliament on October 6, 2015.

He is the third world leader to address the Japanese Parliament after US President Barack Obama and Indian PM Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasingh who is on an official visit to Japan was received by Sri Lanka Ambassador in Japan Professor Dhammika Ganganath Dissanayake at the Kansai Airport.

The national ceremony and commencement of programs to mark World Habitat Day will take place today (05) at Maligawatta Housing Scheme Premises, Colombo 10, where late Ranasinghe Premadasa initiated the concept of settlements.

Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunatilake has referred to the major responsibility vested in the media in the reportage of child incidents and said that a self-censorship is necessary in this respect. If not the Minister said that certain measures would have to be adopted taking the children into consideration as a country.

Following is the full text of the speech delivered by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena at the 70th General Debate of the UNGA in New York on Wednesday (September 30)

The Inaugural ceremony of ‘Wana Ropa’ National Tree Planting Programme will take place on Thursday (Oct.01) at 9.30 am. at Karagahagedera in Hettipola Road, Kuliyapitiya.

A meeting between the Minister of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilake and heads of institutions under the Ministry was held last morning at the Auditorium of the Ministry in Polhengoda, Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena attended the 70th the United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York on Monday (September 28).

Ministers Mangala Samaraweera ,Mahinda Samarasinghe,Wijedasa Rajapakse and Dr.Rohan Perera were also present at this occasion.

The new President of Sri Lanka Mr. Maithripala Sirisena has won the trust of entire world, says UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon. Lot of countries have come forward to give helping hand to Sri Lanka’s way forward, he added.

President Maithripala Sirisena said Sri Lanka will act with determination as a pioneer of eco-sensitive civilization that is emerging in the 21st century to achieve the Post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals and targets that have been adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

 

When we study the character of the great Anagarika Dharmapala, we can see that sometimes, when he faced the challenges in that era, even his character too came in for criticism from the society, President Maithripala Sirisena said. Even though Anagarika Dharmapala was criticized, the importance of the philosophy and guidance of the great leader is increasing day by day , when we see the declining moral values of the people who live in modern society, he said.

German Embassy in Colombo announces that the German Foreign Minister, Dr. Frank Walter Steinmeier is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka next week.
The German Foreign Minister, who will be visiting Sri Lanka on next Tuesday expects to meet H.E. the President Maithreepala Sirisena.
Later on, he will have discussions with the Prime Minister, Ranil Wickramasighe, the Foreign Minister, Mangala Samaraweera and the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. R. Sampanthan.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe emphasizes that actions will be taken to introduce qualitative books to school curriculum as well as to supply qualitative text books to schools within the next five years.
He further said that providing free school books will not be adequate, the quality of such books should be looked in to and the present Government will take steps to provide students with quality and meaningful books within the framework of providing free school text books.
Mr. Wickramasinghe further added, that instead of panegyrics, steps will be taken to provide meaningful books written by experts and that the Government will never hesitate to allocate funds for qualitative books.
He revealed that more funds will be allocated from next year for education and libraries and that every rupee spent will be valued.
He expressed these views attending the opening of the 17th Colombo International Book Fair yesterday (18th ). Colombo International Book Fair will be held from 18th to 27th September at the BMICH.

President Maithripala Sirisena said that as a Government which is committed to follow the philosophy of the great Anagarika Dharmapala, will create an environment where the Sri Lankans can stand up in this modern world as a wise nation while giving priority to our heritage and culture.

President Maithripala Sirisena made these observations participating in the main ceremony , to commemorate the 151st birth anniversary of Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala , at the BMICH , Thursday (17).

01. Safeguarding the collective responsibility of the Cabinet (Document No. 06)

Clause 42(2) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka stipulates that Cabinet of Ministers who are in charge of the steering of the administration of the government of the Republic of Sri Lanka and who are in charge of the conduct of that administration are bound to be collectively responsible for the Parliament and to respond to the Parliament.

Resident Coordinator of United Nations and UNDP Resident Representative, Subinay Nandy said the UN Secretary General has assured to support the President and the Government of Sri Lanka with the United Nations technical assistance and contributions to advance reconciliation and inclusive development through dialogue for a sustainable solution to the longstanding ethnic grievances.

Statement by Mangala Samaraweera, at the 30th Session of the UNHRC, Geneva

Following is the statement delivered by Mangala Samaraweera, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka at the 30th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Geneva, on 14 September 2015.

On the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will undertake an Official visit to India from 14th to 16th September 2015.

During the visit, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka will hold talks with his Indian counterpart and call on Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. Indian Cabinet Ministers and political leaders are among those who are expected to call on the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe on Thursday (10) emphasised that the prime duty of the members of the Parliament should be to attend the Parliament sittings and called upon members who require to attend funerals and weddings in the villages to remain in Provincial Councils levels rather than attending Parliament.

Mr.Gayantha Karunathilaka, the newly appointed Minister of ParliamentaryReforms and Mass Media assumed duties Thursday morning (10) at the Ministry Office in Polhengoda, Colombo.

He was welcomed by Mr.Vajira Narampanawa, the newly appointed Secretary to the Ministry.

The first Cabinet meeting of the Government presided by President Maithripala Sirisena was held yesterday (09) at the Presidential Secretariat.

Parliamentary Reforms and Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake was appointed as the Cabinet Spokesman of the new Government during this meeting.

The proposal in this regard was presented by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and seconded by the President.

01. “Let’s Awaken Polonnaruwa” District Development Programme 2016 - 2020

Polonnaruwa District which is situated in Raja Rata area consists of seven (07) Divisional Secretariat Divisions and two hundred and ninety five (295) Grama Niladhari divisions. Infrastructure which is limited to the urban area does not suit the present community needs and infrastructures such as health, education and highways in rural areas are not in a satisfactory situation. Especially, in Welikanda, Dimbulagala, Medirigiriya, and Lankapura Divisional Secretariat divisions which have confronted the experience of the ethnic conflict are in a critical situation. Therefore, people in Polonnaruwa have been undergoing immense hardship in their day to day lives and have to visit adjoining districts to obtaining various services.

Newly appointed Secretary to the Ministry of Parliament Reforms and Mass Media, Mr. W.M.V. Narampanawa assumed duties in his post today.  Mr. Narampanawa, who has served for years as an Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and has held many other posts in the field of Public Administration, is a renowned and well experienced Public Servant. Mrs. K.W.T.N. Amarathunga, Additional Secretary (Administration) and Mr. B.K.S. Ravindra, Additional Secretary (Development & Planing) and the Staff members of the Ministry too has been present on the occasion.

Secretary to the President Mr. P. B. Abeykoon announced the appointments of 44 new Secretaries to the Ministries yesterday(Sep. 08) at the Presidential Secretariat.

The New Secretaries received their letters of appointment from the Secretary to the President.

Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Saman Ekanayake and the Secretary to the Cabinet Ministers Mr. Sumith Abeysinghe were also present at this occasion.

Pradeep Nilanga Dela has been re-appointed as the Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) in Kandy.

He secured 205 votes in favour at the elections held to select the Diyawadana Nilame. Accordingly he becomes the 20th Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa.

Two Chief Ministers for Western and North Western Provinces were appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday (Sep. 07) at the President’s Official Residence.

Accordingly, Isuru Dewapriya was appointed as the Chief Minister of the Western Province while Dharmasiri Dassanayake was appointed as the Chief Minister of North Western Province.

Mass Media and Parliament Reforms Minister Gayantha Karunatillake requested all media persons and journalists to always report the truth.

“For the first, second and third time, always report the truth,” he said addressing those present to greet him at the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation premises on Friday.

The two day EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2015 exhibition and job fair which commenced on Saturday (05) will conclude today (September 6). The exhibition is open for public from 10.00am to 6.30 pm. EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2015, premier education exhibition and job fair, conducted by the Royal College Union (RCU) is being held at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC).

Mr.Gayantha Karunathilake was sworn in as the Minister of parliament Reforms and Mass Media and before President Maithripala Sirisena at a ceremony currently underway at the Presidential Secretariat.

The swearing in ceremony of the new Cabinet of the National Government commenced at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo, a short while ago.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was the first to take oaths as the Minister of National Policy and Economic Affairs before President Maithripala Sirisena.

President Maithripala Sirisena says, as a government he expects to initiate a project within next two years to supply purified water to the people in the areas where there is a threat of spreading kidney diseases.

The President made these remarks at a ceremony to offer a water filter which has the capacity of filtering 24000 liters per day for kidney patients at Sudarshanarama Temple in Thalakolawewa, Medirigiriya yesterday (Sep. 03).

The Ministry of Health has declared an island wide National Mosquito Prevention Week commenced from September 10 to 16, Health Services Director General Dr. Palitha Mahipala said while addressing a media conference held at Government Information Department yesterday (02).

President Maithripala Sirisena called on all political parties to end politics of conflict and extend a helping hand to strengthen the politics of consociation initiated by the government. Pointing out that one major national party ruled the country for 35 years and the other main party ruled for 32 years, he urged all the Members of Parliament representing different political parties to cooperate with the government’s determined initiative to usher in a new political culture of consociation.

The First Sitting of the Eighth Parliament will commence at 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 01, 2015.

Sri Lanka Parliament has issued the following Memorandum on the Order of Business and Ceremonial at the First Sitting of the Eighth Parliament.

Nepal's Prime Minister Sushil Koirala has congratulated the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka's Ranil Wickremesinghe and expressed his desire to work closely with his Sri Lankan counterpart to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka before President Maithripala Sirisena at a ceremony currently underway at the Presidential Secretariat.


UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe will be sworn-in as Prime Minister before President Maithripala Sirisena for the fourth time, at a simple ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat today.

President Maithripala Sirisena delivering a special statement on Monday (17) to the Nation said the election held Monday was the most peaceful election in the political history of this country, ever witnessed since the very first General Election held in1947.

Deputy Elections Commissioner M.M. Mohammed said the Secretariat would be able to announce the first postal vote result between 11.00 p.m. to midnight today and the final result could be issued by noon tomorrow.

Campaigning for the Parliamentary election 2015 will end at midnight today. Election offices set up by the candidates at the electoral level should be dismantled by tomorrow.

Adyapana 2015, Sri Lanka's most focused higher education and career exhibition will be held for the 10th consecutive year from October 2-4 at the BMICH.

Sri Lankan Government has decided to obtain fingerprints as biometric data of applicants when issuing Passports.
Accordingly the Immigration and Emigration Department will begin the process to issue biometric passports according to international standards with effect from 10th August 2015.


01. Renovation of infrastructure facilities at multi storied housing complexes


The Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal made by the Hon. Minister of Housing and Samurdhi Sajith Premadasa to renovate the road network and the drain network of the undermentioned 13 multi storied housing complexes in the city of Colombo in which 1,700 families are residing, at a cost of Rs. 143.29 Million.

The inaugural ceremony of the International Summit on Climate Change will be held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena on September 8 at 11 am at Hotel Galadari, Colombo.

President Maithripala Sirisena thanked Turkey for the steps taken to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation. He said Turkish construction companies have partnered in several construction projects including a housing project in Mannar where 100 houses were built.

The first phase of the Central expressway from Colombo to Kandy commenced yesterday. The expressway cutting through the Central Province will be constructed at half the original cost and mark a new era in the country’s development sphere.

Police officers and teachers of state schools will be allowed to cast their postal ballot today, Election Department sources said.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Wednesday (29) visited the High Commission of India in Colombo to convey his condolences on the demise of the former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

President Sirisena signed the Condolence Book and fondly recalled his meeting with Dr. Kalam last month in Colombo.

Foreign Ministry, Yesterday announced on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka a historic initiative to cover the entire country with affordable high-speed internet in partnership with Google.

Hon. Gayantha Karunathilake, Minister of Mass Media has teken steps to settle the payments due for using his three official vehicles during the election.

Accodingly, the Hon. Minister has handed over a checque to the value of Rs. 300,000 to the secretary Ministry of Mass Media.

The Elections Commissioner has emphasized that workers in the Private Sector should be granted leave to exercise their franchise without being deprived of their personal leave or pay at the upcoming elections.. Elections Chief Mahinda Deshapriya has intimated this notice issuing a special statement.He points out out that this regulation should be properly enforced at this general election based on the provisions mentioned in Clause 120 of Parliamentary Elections Act No: 01 of 1981.

The Deputy Elections Commissioner MM Mohamed said that the Elections Secretariat will deploy 195,000 state employees for election duty.

Accordingly, 120,000 state employees will be deployed on the Election Day while 75,000 will be deployed for the counting process, he said.

The counting of votes will take place in 12,021 centres. Two representatives per candidate will be permitted at counting centres.

Those in need of their National Identity Cards (NICs) to vote at the forthcoming Parliamentary Elections 2015, should apply for their NICs on or before the 25th of this month.

The maiden conference of heads of the National Statistical Organizations (SAARCSTAT) of the countries of South Asian region was held in Calcutta, India in 2005 with the view of enhancing regional cooperation on Statistical affaires.

Dr.R.H.S.Samarathunga
Dr. R.H.S. Samarathunga
Secretary
Ministry of Finance and Mass Media
mangala

Hon. Mangala Samaraweera
Minister of Finance and Mass Media
The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

 

Secretary to the President P.B. Abeykoon in a special circular has informed that recruitment, appointments and promotions in the government service has been restricted and prohibited during the Parliamentary Election period. Also misuse of state assets too have been prohibited.

The Secretary to the President also has said that vehicles issued to the personal staff of Ministers, Deputy Ministers and State Ministers other than their private Secretaries should be handed over to the respective Ministry Secretary before July 20.

The Elections commission have invited foreign polls observes to observe the Parliamentary Elections scheduled for 17 August 2015, Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said.

Decisions taken by the Cabinet of Ministers at the meeting held on 15-07-2015

01. Establishment of a general procedure to award "Prashansaneeya Seva Padakkama"
The proposal made by HE the President Maithripala Sirisena in his capacity as the Minister of Defence, to establish a general procedure to award the "Prashansaneeya Seva Padakkama" to officers and other ranks in the tri forces as a gratitude towards the long, admirable, preferential and invaluable service, according to the recommendations made by board consisted of senior officials of three forces, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

02. Formalization of the export of Gyrinopswalla plant
The proposal made by HE the President Maithripala Sirisena in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, to implement the method prepared with the agreement of respective parties which are the officials of the Department of Forest Conservation, Department of Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Secretariat to enforce necessary action for the conservation of Gyrinopswalla plant which was included in the Red List prepared in 2012 while allowing the possession and transportation of the plant on commercial basis based on a permit issued by the respective authority, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

  • Deyata Kitula National Development Exibition-2014: "Asi Disi Media Zone" Expression of Interest (English)
  • Deyata Kitula National Development Exibition-2014: "Asi Disi Media Zone" Expression of Interest (Tamil)

  • Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd.
  • Arthur C. Clarke Centre for Modern Technologies
  • Atomic Energy Authority
  • Attorney General's Department
  • Bank of Ceylon
  • Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI)
  • Bureau of Foreign Employment
  • Bureau of Infrastructure Investment
  • Central Bank of Sri Lanka
  • Central Cultural Fund
  • Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau (CECB)
  • Ceylon Electricity Board
  • Ceylon Hotels Corporation
  • Clothing Industry Training Institute
  • Coast Conservation Department
  • Coconut Development Authority
  • Colombo International School
  • Commission to Investigate Allegation of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC)
  • Computer & Information Technology Council of Sri Lanka (CINTEC)
  • Co-operative Wholesale Establishment (CWE)
  • Department of Agriculture
  • Department of Animal Production and Health
  • Department of Archaeology
  • Department of Ayurveda
  • Department of Census & Statistics
  • Department of Elections
  • Department of Examinations
  • Department of External Resources
  • Department of Fiscal Policy & Economic Affairs
  • Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
  • Department of Immigration & Emigration
  • Department of Information
  • Department of Inland Revenue
  • Department of Labour
  • Department of Meteorology
  • Department of National Archives
  • Department of National Budget
  • Department of National Museums
  • Department of Posts
  • Department of Public Enterprises
  • Department of Registrar of Companies
  • Department of Registration of Persons
  • Department of State Accounts
  • Department of Wildlife Conservation
  • Development Lotteries Board
  • E Sri Lanka
  • Eastern University, Sri Lanka
  • Employees Trust Fund (ETF)
  • Energy Supply Committee
  • Energy Conservation Fund
  • General Hospital Colombo South
  • Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB)
  • Government Official Web Portal
  • Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute
  • Independent Television Network Ltd.(ITN)
  • Indo-Sri Lanka FreeTrade Agreement
  • Industrial Development Board (IDB)
  • Industrial Technology Institute (ITI)
  • Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA)
  • Institute of Fundamental Studies(IFS)
  • Institute of Policy Studies(IPS)
  • JobsNet - Sri Lanka
  • KalubowitiyanaTea Factory Ltd.
  • Lanka General TradingCompany
  • LankaTransformers Ltd.
  • Legal Draftsman's Department
  • Microfinance for Tsunami Affected Areas
  • Millennium Development Goals Sri Lanka
  • Ministry of Agricultural Marketing Development. Co-operative Development, Hindu Affairs and Minister Assisting Education & Vocational Training
  • Ministry of Constitutional Affairs and National Integration
  • Ministryof Christian and Parliamentary Affairs
  • Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Natural Heritages
  • Ministry of Defence, Public Security, Law and Order
  • Ministry of Education
  • Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
  • Ministry of Finance & Planning
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Ministry of Healthcare, Nutrition and Uva Wellassa Development
  • Ministry of Highways
  • Minister of Housing and Construction Industry, Eastern Province Education and Irrigation Development
  • Ministry of Industry and Investment Promotion
  • Ministry of Justice and Law Reforms
  • Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs
  • Ministry of Public Security, Law and Order
  • Ministry ofReligious Affairs
  • Ministry of Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation
  • Ministry of Sience & Technology
  • Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Consumer, Affairs and Marketing Development
  • Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
  • Monitoring and Progress Review Division - Ministry of Finance & Planning
  • National Child Protection Authority (NCPA)
  • National Disaster Management CenterSri Lanka
  • National Employment Policy Portal
  • National Engineering Research and DevelopmentCentre
  • National Fertilizer Secretariat of Sri Lanka
  • National Hospital of Sri Lanka
  • National Institute of Business Management (NIBM)
  • National Library and Documentation Services Board and National Library and Documentation Centre
  • National Procurement Agency
  • National Productivity Policy Portal
  • National Savings Bank (NSB)
  • National Science Foundation
  • National Science & Technology Commission
  • National Water Supply & Drainage Board
  • National Youth Services Council
  • National Zoological Gardens
  • NorthEast Provincial Council
  • North Western (Wayamba) Provincial Council
  • Official Legal Information Network of Sri Lanka (Lawnet)
  • People's Bank
  • Parliament of Sri Lanka
  • Planetarium
  • Police
  • Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) – University of Sri ayewardenapura
  • Postgraduate Institute of Science - University of Peradeniya
  • President of Sri Lanka
  • Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
  • Public Enterprise Reform Commission
  • Public PerformanceBoard
  • Public Procurement Bureau -Department of Public Finance
  • RanaViru Seva Authority (Welfare of Servicemen)
  • RanaViru Remembrance Park
  • Real Estate Exchange (Pvt) Ltd.
  • Regaining Sri Lanka
  • Resettlementand Rehabilitation Authority of the North (RRAN)
  • Rice Research & Development Institute
  • Rubber Research Board
  • Science & Technology Human Resources Development Project
  • Secretariat for Coordinating thePeace Process
  • Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka
  • Small and Medium Enterprise Developers
  • Sri Lanka Army
  • Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (NationalRadio)
  • Sri Lanka Cashew Corporation
  • Sri Lanka Convention Bureau
  • Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy
  • Sri Lanka Domain Registry
  • Sri Lanka Export Credit Insurance Corporation
  • Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB)
  • Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board (Laksala)
  • Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration(SLIDA)
  • Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology(SLIIT)
  • Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation Ltd.
  • Sri Lanka Inventors' Commission
  • Sri Lanka Ports Authority (Colombo Port)
  • Sri Lanka Rice Research Institute
  • Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (National Television)
  • Sri Lanka Standards Institution
  • Sri Lanka TeaBoard
  • Sri Lanka Tea Research Institute
  • Sri Lanka Telecom Ltd.
  • Sri Lanka Television Training Institute
  • Sri Lanka Tourist Board
  • Sri Lanka Trade
  • Sri Lankan Airlines Ltd.
  • Sri Lankan Cargo Ltd.
  • State Mortgage and Investment Bank
  • State Pharmaceuticals Corporation
  • Sustainable Townships Programme (STP) - 'Thirasara Puravara'
  • Task Force for Rebuilding the Nation - TAFREN
  • Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRC)
  • Tertiaryand Vocational Education Commission (TVEC)
  • Textile Training and Services Centre
  • Tharuna Aruna Programme
  • The National Institute of Education
  • TheOpen University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)
  • The Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA)- University of Peradeniya
  • Tower Hall Theatre Foundation
  • Treasury Secretariat
  • University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka
  • University of Colombo
  • University of Kelaniya
  • University of Moratuwa
  • University of Peradeniya
  • University of Ruhuna
  • University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Urban Development Authority (UDA)
  • United Nations Development Programme - Sri Lanka
  • Wildlife Trustst
  • Western Province Tourism - Sri Lanka

  • Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd.
  • Arthur C. Clarke Centre for Modern Technologies
  • Atomic Energy Authority
  • Attorney General's Department
  • Bank of Ceylon
  • Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI)
  • Bureau of Foreign Employment
  • Bureau of Infrastructure Investment
  • Central Bank of Sri Lanka
  • Central Cultural Fund
  • Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau (CECB)
  • Ceylon Electricity Board
  • Ceylon Hotels Corporation
  • Clothing Industry Training Institute
  • Coast Conservation Department
  • Coconut Development Authority
  • Colombo International School
  • Commission to Investigate Allegation of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC)
  • Computer & Information Technology Council of Sri Lanka (CINTEC)
  • Co-operative Wholesale Establishment (CWE)
  • Department of Agriculture
  • Department of Animal Production and Health
  • Department of Archaeology
  • Department of Ayurveda
  • Department of Census & Statistics
  • Department of Elections
  • Department of Examinations
  • Department of External Resources
  • Department of Fiscal Policy & Economic Affairs
  • Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
  • Department of Immigration & Emigration
  • Department of Information
  • Department of Inland Revenue
  • Department of Labour
  • Department of Meteorology
  • Department of National Archives
  • Department of National Budget
  • Department of National Museums
  • Department of Posts
  • Department of Public Enterprises
  • Department of Registrar of Companies
  • Department of Registration of Persons
  • Department of State Accounts
  • Department of Wildlife Conservation
  • Development Lotteries Board
  • E Sri Lanka
  • Eastern University, Sri Lanka
  • Employees Trust Fund (ETF)
  • Energy Supply Committee
  • Energy Conservation Fund
  • General Hospital Colombo South
  • Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB)
  • Government Official Web Portal
  • Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute
  • Independent Television Network Ltd.(ITN)
  • Indo-Sri Lanka FreeTrade Agreement
  • Industrial Development Board (IDB)
  • Industrial Technology Institute (ITI)
  • Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA)
  • Institute of Fundamental Studies(IFS)
  • Institute of Policy Studies(IPS)
  • JobsNet - Sri Lanka
  • KalubowitiyanaTea Factory Ltd.
  • Lanka General TradingCompany
  • LankaTransformers Ltd.
  • Legal Draftsman's Department
  • Microfinance for Tsunami Affected Areas
  • Millennium Development Goals Sri Lanka
  • Ministry of Agricultural Marketing Development. Co-operative Development, Hindu Affairs and Minister Assisting Education & Vocational Training
  • Ministry of Constitutional Affairs and National Integration
  • Ministryof Christian and Parliamentary Affairs
  • Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Natural Heritages
  • Ministry of Defence, Public Security, Law and Order
  • Ministry of Education
  • Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
  • Ministry of Finance & Planning
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Ministry of Healthcare, Nutrition and Uva Wellassa Development
  • Ministry of Highways
  • Minister of Housing and Construction Industry, Eastern Province Education and Irrigation Development
  • Ministry of Industry and Investment Promotion
  • Ministry of Justice and Law Reforms
  • Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs
  • Ministry of Public Security, Law and Order
  • Ministry ofReligious Affairs
  • Ministry of Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation
  • Ministry of Sience & Technology
  • Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Consumer, Affairs and Marketing Development
  • Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
  • Monitoring and Progress Review Division - Ministry of Finance & Planning
  • National Child Protection Authority (NCPA)
  • National Disaster Management CenterSri Lanka
  • National Employment Policy Portal
  • National Engineering Research and DevelopmentCentre
  • National Fertilizer Secretariat of Sri Lanka
  • National Hospital of Sri Lanka
  • National Institute of Business Management (NIBM)
  • National Library and Documentation Services Board and National Library and Documentation Centre
  • National Procurement Agency
  • National Productivity Policy Portal
  • National Savings Bank (NSB)
  • National Science Foundation
  • National Science & Technology Commission
  • National Water Supply & Drainage Board
  • National Youth Services Council
  • National Zoological Gardens
  • NorthEast Provincial Council
  • North Western (Wayamba) Provincial Council
  • Official Legal Information Network of Sri Lanka (Lawnet)
  • People's Bank
  • Parliament of Sri Lanka
  • Planetarium
  • Police
  • Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) – University of Sri ayewardenapura
  • Postgraduate Institute of Science - University of Peradeniya
  • President of Sri Lanka
  • Prime Minister of Sri Lanka
  • Public Enterprise Reform Commission
  • Public PerformanceBoard
  • Public Procurement Bureau -Department of Public Finance
  • RanaViru Seva Authority (Welfare of Servicemen)
  • RanaViru Remembrance Park
  • Real Estate Exchange (Pvt) Ltd.
  • Regaining Sri Lanka
  • Resettlementand Rehabilitation Authority of the North (RRAN)
  • Rice Research & Development Institute
  • Rubber Research Board
  • Science & Technology Human Resources Development Project
  • Secretariat for Coordinating thePeace Process
  • Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka
  • Small and Medium Enterprise Developers
  • Sri Lanka Army
  • Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (NationalRadio)
  • Sri Lanka Cashew Corporation
  • Sri Lanka Convention Bureau
  • Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy
  • Sri Lanka Domain Registry
  • Sri Lanka Export Credit Insurance Corporation
  • Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB)
  • Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board (Laksala)
  • Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration(SLIDA)
  • Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology(SLIIT)
  • Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation Ltd.
  • Sri Lanka Inventors' Commission
  • Sri Lanka Ports Authority (Colombo Port)
  • Sri Lanka Rice Research Institute
  • Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (National Television)
  • Sri Lanka Standards Institution
  • Sri Lanka TeaBoard
  • Sri Lanka Tea Research Institute
  • Sri Lanka Telecom Ltd.
  • Sri Lanka Television Training Institute
  • Sri Lanka Tourist Board
  • Sri Lanka Trade
  • Sri Lankan Airlines Ltd.
  • Sri Lankan Cargo Ltd.
  • State Mortgage and Investment Bank
  • State Pharmaceuticals Corporation
  • Sustainable Townships Programme (STP) - 'Thirasara Puravara'
  • Task Force for Rebuilding the Nation - TAFREN
  • Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRC)
  • Tertiaryand Vocational Education Commission (TVEC)
  • Textile Training and Services Centre
  • Tharuna Aruna Programme
  • The National Institute of Education
  • TheOpen University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)
  • The Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA)- University of Peradeniya
  • Tower Hall Theatre Foundation
  • Treasury Secretariat
  • University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka
  • University of Colombo
  • University of Kelaniya
  • University of Moratuwa
  • University of Peradeniya
  • University of Ruhuna
  • University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Urban Development Authority (UDA)
  • United Nations Development Programme - Sri Lanka
  • Wildlife Trustst
  • Western Province Tourism - Sri Lanka

Registered Institutions for Radio and TV Licenses

Click here to view the List of Organisations

01. Revision of the total expenditure estimates for the construction of Police Stations in Jaffna and Point Pedro
One of the steps to be taken for strengthening the civil administration after ending the conflicts of the war is widening the Police Stations and government offices. Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has already given approval for the establishments of Police Stations in Jaffna and Point Pedro. It has now become necessary to increase the already estimated expenditure in this connection. In this connection the Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal made by the Hon. Minister of Public Order and Christian Affairs John Amaratunga to expeditiously build these two Police Stations by increasing the estimated expenditure for the Jaffna Police Stations from Rs. 294.8 Million to Rs. 484.1 Million and by increasing the estimated expenditure for the Point Pedro Police Stations from Rs. 119 Million to Rs. 176 Million.

Ministry of  Finance & Mass Media    
Address  : 163, Asi Disi Medura, Kirulapone Mawatha, Polhengoda, Colombo 05.
Phone  : 011-2513 459, 011-2513 460, 0112512321, 0112513498
Web Site  :  www.media.gov.lk
     
Secretary    
Name  : Dr. R.H.S. Samarathunga
Phone  : 011-2513 467
Fax  : 011-2513 458
     
Additional Secretary (Administration)    
Name  :  Mrs.Ramani Gunawardhana
Phone  :  011-2513398
Fax  :  011-2512346
     
Additional Secretary (Development & Planning)    
Name  :  Mrs. J.M.Thilaka Jayasundara
Phone  :  011-2513 943
Fax  :  011-2512 343
     
Chief Accountant    
Name  :  Mr. N.M.D.Nawarathna
Phone  :  011-2513 464
Fax  :  011-2513 437
     
Accountant (Internal Audit)    
Name  :   Mrs.A.G. Anula Wijerathna
Phone  :   011-2513 497
Fax  :   011-2513 497
     
Senior Assistant Secretary (Administration)    
Name  :   Mrs. N.W.Dias 
Phone  :  011-2514 631
Fax  :  011-2513 462
     
Director (Development)  
Name  :   Mr. J.W.S. Kithsiri
Phone  :  011-2513470
Fax  :  011-2513470
     
Director (Planning)    
Name  :  Miss. W.A.P.Wellappuli
Phone  :  011-2513 470
Fax  :  011-2514 351
     
Director (Media)    
Name  :  Mr. K.P. Jayantha
Phone  :  011-2513 469
Fax  :  011-2513 469
     
Accountant    
Name  :   Miss. B. R. Ranasingha
Phone  :   011-2513 442
Fax  :   011-2513 442
     
Assistant Director (Planning)    
Name  :  Mrs. M.C.S. Devasurendra
Phone  :  011-2513 466
Fax  :  011-2513 466
     
Assistant Secretary (Administration)    
Name  :   Mr. M.P. Bandara
Phone  :  011-2512 524
Fax  :  011-2513 470
     
Assistant Secretary (Development)    
Name  : Miss. T.A.S.S. Karunarathna
Phone  :  011-2513 451
Fax  :  011-2513 462
     
Legal Officer    
Name   Mrs. D.P.U. Welarathna
Phone   011-2513468
Fax   011-2513468
     
Translator    
Name  :  Mrs. A. A. P. K. Amarasinghe
Phone  :  011-2512 052
Fax  :  -
     
     


 

Contact Details for Ministry of Mass Media and Information

# Name Phone
1 Ministry of Mass Media & Information

011-2513 459
011-2512 321
011-2513 460

Department of Government Information
No.163,Kirulapone Avenue, Polhengoda, Colombo 05. 
Telepone No: 0112515759
Fax No: 0112514753
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.news.lk

information department logo
  Office Tele. Fax No.

Director General of Information
Mrs. K.W.T.N.Amarathunga

2512760 2514753

Director of Information
Mr. Wasanthapriya Ramanayake

2513953

2513757

Addl.Director (Finance)
Mr. R.A Chandrarathne

2512332 2512332

Director (Govt. Film Unit)
Mr. H.G.D.P.Piyaratne

2513633 -

Asst.Director (Admin)
Ms. A.M.A.Kumari

2514092 2514092
     

Department of Government Printing
Department of Government Printing
No 118, Dr. Danister de Silva Mawatha, Colombo-08.
Telepone No: 0112694733-6
Fax No: 0112698653
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 
Web Address: www.documents.gov.lk

  government printing
  Office Tele. Fax No.

Government Printer
Mr. P.H.L.V. De Silva

2691460 2698653

Additional Govt. Printer
Mr. L.R.K Amarasinghe (Actg.)

2699064 2699064

Additional Govt.Printer
Mr.M.G. Premasinghe

2695264

2694264

Additional Govt.Printer (Finance)
Mrs. D.V.W.Bethmage

2679862 2679862

Deputy Govt. printer (Audit)
Mr. K.P.Wasanthathilake

2689375 2689375
     

The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd (Lake House)
No. 35, D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo-10.
Telepone No: 0112429429, 011242118
Fax No: 0112429329
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.lakehouse.lk

  ancl
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Bandula Padmakumara 2429651   2430985
Mr. Upul Dissanayake 2429653 2435644
Mr. Abhaya Amaradasa 2429501 -
Mr. Rasanga Harishandra 2429656 -
Mr. Seelarathna Senerath 2429658 -
Chairman    
Mr. Kawan Rathnayake 2429651 2430985
Dirctor (Finance)    
Mr. S. Shanmuganathan 2429654 2454642
Director (Admin & Legal)    
Mr. Rasanga Harischandra 2429656 2472281
General Manager    
Mr. Abhaya Amaradasa 2429501 2429500
     

Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation
No. 2204, Independence Square, Colombo 7.
Telepone No: 0112501050-53
Fax No: 0112580929
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.rupavahini.lk

  rupavahini
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Mohan Samaranayake 2587352 -
Dr. Rohana Lankshman Piyadasa 2917713 -
Mr. Vasantha de Silva 2587352 -
Mr. Hadson samarasinghe 2696417 -
Mr. Kumar Abeysinghe 2580247 -
Mr.Edward Jayakody 2785250 -
Mr. M.P.D.U.K. Mapa Pathirana 2484693 -
Chairman    
Mr. Somarathna Dissanayake 2587352 2580131
Director General    
Mr. Chandrapala Liyanage 2587722 2580929
Chief Executive Officer    
Mr. Gamini Somachandra Rasaputhra 2594901 2594901
Dy. Director General (Engineering)    
Mr. Rohan Perera 2580136 2500373
Dy. Director General (Programme)    
Mr. Nishantha Ubayawanse 2501056 2501056
     

Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation
P.O Box 574, Colombo 07.
Telepone No: 0112697491-95
Fax No: 0112695488
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.slbc.lk

  Broadcasting Corporation
Directors  Office Tele.  Fax No.
Mr. Hadson samarasinghe 2696417 -
Mr. Kumaradasa Saputhanthe - -
Dr. Harischandra Vijethunga 2910220 -
Mr. Manoj Peries - -
Mrs. Darshana Senanayake 2484653 -
Chairman    
Mr. Hudson Samarasinghe - 2695488
Director General    
Mr. Samantha Weliweriya - 2697150
Addl. Director General    
Mr. Erananda Hettiarachchi - 2697499
Dy. Director General (Regional & National Service)    
Mr. T.D.K. Jayantha - 2694083
Dy. D.G (Commercial Service)    
Mrs. Mayuri Abeysinghe - 2695488
Dy. D.D (Marketing)    
Mr. Palitha Dissanayaka - 2691977
     

Independent Television Network Ltd
Address: Wickramasinghepura, Baththaramulla.
Telepone No: 0112773289, 0112774725
Fax No: 0112774595
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.itn.lk, www.lakhanda.lk

  itn
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Rosman Senarathna 2775494 -
Mr. Alhaj Haseem Omar - -
Mr. Mapalagama Vimalarathna - -
Mr. Devapiran 5337671 -
Mrs. Malani Gamage 2477915 -
Mr. P.G. Dasanayake - -
Chairman/CEO    
Mr. Ganganath Dissanayake 2775494 2774591

General Manager
Mr. W.P.A.M. Wijesinghe

2774595 2774595

Actg. Dy. Director General (Admin)
Mrs. Sanjivani Epa

2774594 2774594

Dy. Director General (Finance)
Mr. K.T.C. Priyangani

2776933 2774595
     

State Printing Corporation
Address: Panaluwa, Watareka, Padukka
Telepone No: 0112859308,0112774725
Fax No: 0112757500
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.stateprint.lk

  state printing
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Jayanpathi Bandara Heenkenda 2757508 -
Mr. H.K.D Lakshman Gamini 2757507 -
Mr. Amarapala Gamage - -
Mr. Nandasiri Kalubovila - -
Mr. N.H.M Chithranande 2784814 -
Mr. G. Gamage 2879080 -
Mrs. D.G.N Kumari 2484986 -
Chairman    
Mr. Jayanpathi Bandara Heenkende 2757508 2757506

Vice Chairman
Mr. H.K.D.L. Gamini

2757507 2757506

General Manager (Acting)
Mr. R.M.N. Monarawila

2859547 2859307

Finance Manager
Mr. N.D. Priyankara Kumara

2757502 -
     

Sri Lanka Press Council
Address: 155/15, kasal Street, Colombo 08 07
Telepone No: 0112693271
Fax No: 0112693272

  srilanka press council
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Pr. Ariyarathna Athugala    
Mr. W. Dayarathna    
Mr. Ariyananda Dobagaha    
Pr. Sunanda Mahendra    
Mr. Chandana Prasad    
Mr. H.M Jayawardena    
Mr. A.K.N. Wikramasinghe    
Chairman    
Mr. W.Dayarathne 2693276 2693271

Assistant Commissioner
Mr. Niroshana Thambawita

2693274 2693271

Accountant
Mr. S.A. Jagathsiri

2693278 2693271
     

Selacine Television Institute
Address: SLBC Training Institute Building, Torrington Square, Colombo 07
Telepone No: 0112693271
Fax No: 0112688745
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: www.selacine.lk

  salacine
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Pradeep Edirisinghe 2688744 2688745
Mr. M.P.D.U.K Mapa Pathirana 2484500  

Chairman
Mr. Pradeep Edirisinghe

2688744 2688745

General Manager
Mr. Upul Pallegangoda

2688744 2688745

Manager (HR & Admin)
Mrs. Pushpa Bamunuarachchi

2688744 2688745
     

Lankapuwath Limited
No. 30/75A, London Place, Colombo 07.
Telepone No: 0112585927-9
Fax No: 0112585930
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address: lankapuvath.lk

  lankapuvath
Directors Office Tele. Fax No.
Mr. Mohan Samaranayake 2585927 -
Mr. Hudson Samarasinghe 2696417 -
Mr. Bandula Padmakumara 2429651 -
Mr. Rosmand Senarathna 2775494 -
Dr. Ariyarathna Atugala 2512760 -
Mr. Charitha Herath 2872361 -
Mr. Predeep Gunawardena - -
Mr. Anusha Palpita 2679827 -
Chairman    
Mr. Mahinda Eleperuma 2585927 2585930

Administration Manager
Mr. Thilak Sirimanna

2585927 2585930

Chief Editor
Mrs. N.G.D.S. Ratnapala

2585928 2585930

Manager (IT)
Mr. Pasan Abeywickrama

2585929 2585930
     

National Film Corporation
Address: No : 303, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07
Telepone No : 0112588773
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address:www.srilankafilmcorp.com

  film corporation
Directors  Office Tele. Fax No.
Dr. Ariyarathna Athugala    
Mr. W. M. Vijitha Kunugala    
Mr. Samantha Valiweriya    
Dr. Ronald Abepala    
Dr. Preneeth Abeysundara    
Mr. D. Venkathareshwaran    
Mrs. Renuka Balasuriya    
Mr. Kumar Abeysundara    
Mr. W.D Karunarathna    
Mr. Malani Gamage    
Chairman    
Mr. Ashoka Serasinghe 2580247 2585526

Dy. General Manager (Finance)
Mr. P.L. Dharmawickrama

2593433 2593433

Actg. Manager(Admin.)
Mr. K.D.G. Bandusena

2593429 -
     

Mahinda Rajapakse Tele Cinema Park
Jul Pallama,Ranmihithanna, Thissamaharamaya
Telepone No : 0472255445-6
Fax No: 0472255522
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web Address : www.mrtelecinemapark.com

  telecinema park
Chairman Office Tele. Fax No.

Mr.
Secretary, Ministry of Mass Media & Information

   
Members    

Mr. Gamini Senarath
Additional Secretary toH.E .the President/ Chief ofÂÂÂÂ Staff ,Presidential Secretariat

   

Vice Admiral Somathilaka Dissanayake
Commander of the Navy, Navy Head Quarters

   

Mr. R.M.D.B. Meegasmulla
District Secretary, District Secretariat, Hambanthota

   

Mr. Ravindra Randeniya
Veteran Cinema Performer

   

Mr. Rohana Weerasinghe
Presidential Fine Art Advisor

   

Mr. Ravindra Guruge
Cinema Technologist and Editor

   

Mr. Suresh Abesekara
Chairman, Tele Cinema Producer’s Association

   

Mr. Bandula Ekanayake
Director General, BMICH

   

   Main Objective   
To provide extensive support in issuing clearance certificates to channels while ensuring the maximum productivity.

   Main Role of Unit   
Maintenance of effective public relations and issuing clearance certificates to channels by previewing all the television programmes to be telecast.

   The Main Activities of the Division   

{jathumbnailoff}

   Main Objective   

01. Publicizing and raising public awareness on national events and the role of the institutions affiliated to the Ministry. 

02. Facilitating to upgrade professional standards of journalists.

 

   The Main Activities of the Division   

01. Implementation of the scholarship programme for journalists.
02. Providing credit facilities for journalists to purchase media equipment.
03. Conducting press briefings and publicity activities on programmes organized by various Ministries, government institutions and religious organizations.
04. Organization of training workshops for journalists.
05. Issuing press releases for print and electronic media.
06. Organizing press briefings publicity activities on special projects launched by Ministries and their affiliated institutions.
07. Update and maintain the official website of the Ministry tri-lingually.
08. Implementation of publicity activities of affiliated institutions of the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media.
09. Preparing investigative reports containing important news published daily in print media.
10. Selection and archiving of economically, politically, socially significant newspaper articles on current issues.
11. Organization of social gatherings for journalists.

 

Special Programmes

01. Scholarship programme implemented to upgrade professional standards of journalists.
02. Credit facility scheme implemented to facilitate the profession of journalists.
03. Training workshops for a better media culture.

   Main Hierarchy ( Designation, Contact Numbers )   

dsc 2582

Mr. K. P. Jayantha
Designation : Director (Media)
Telephone : 011-2513 469
Fax : 011-2513 469
Mobile : 0773-996 320
E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

{jathumbnailoff}

   Main Objective   
Conduct research processes according to ethical media practice in order to maintain good governance.

   Principle Role of the Division   
Direct the processed research reports to the local authorities and Government institutions.

   The Main Activities of the Unit   

  • Conducting research processes on following:
    Current issues
    Security situation
    GOSL development programmers
    Election analysis
    Media ethics

 

Main Objective and Goals

  • To assist the management of the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms to achieve excellent performance by way of contributing to internal finance control and administration in performing the mission of the Ministry.
  • To maintain continuous monitoring on the progress of finance, administration and development activities of the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media and its affiliated institutions and inquiring, directing and reporting the current status to the Chief Accounting Officer while maintaining quality and regularity of administrative methods enabling the Chief Accounting Officer to perform the responsibilities and functions entrusted to him in effective realization of the mission of the Ministry

Main Function

Assisting the management and avoiding possible future occurrences of unnecessary financial loss and disgrace.

Other Functions

Special Programmes / Projects / Workshops  

  • Conducting Audit and Management Committee Meetings
  • Conducting unexpected investigations
  • Monitoring of regional transmission stations and provincial broadcasting stations
  • Monitoring the performance of institutions affiliated to the Ministry

Formats / Acts / Regulations

  • Financial Regulations

                        Eg:-  F.R. 630

 

  • Establishments Code
  • Acts

            Eg:- Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation Act

                    Sri Lanka Broa

dcasting Corporation Act

                    State Printing Corporation Act

                    Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited Act

 

  • Circulars

            Eg:- Public Administration Circulars

                    Management Circulars  

                    Internal Circulars

                    Treasury Circulars

 

  • Other Guidance

            Eg:- Good governance

                    Government Tender Procedure and Procurement

   Main Hierarchy ( Designation, Contact Numbers )   

Chief Accountant

Mrs.A.G. Anula Wijerathna
Designation : Accountant (Internal Auditor)
Telephone : 011-2513497
Fax : 011-2513497
E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

{jathumbnailoff}

   Main Objective   
To provide extensive support to achieve the objectives & goals of the Ministry, through efficient financial management while ensuring the maximum productivity.

   Role of the Division   
Maintenance of an effective financial control and management of assets utilizing the annual budgetary provisions.

   The Main Activities of the Division   

  • Budgetary control.
  • Preparation and payment of personal emoluments of the Ministry staff.
  • Procurement of goods and services adhering to Government Tender Procedures.
  • Inventory control.
  • Guiding the affliacted institutions of the Ministry for better financial control by over viewing and analyzing their physical and financial progress.
  • Intermediation among COPE & CPA and institutions coming under the Ministry by directing the relevant institutions to overview, analyze and implement the decisions and findings of the said Committees.

   Forms / Acts / Regulations 

  • Financial Regulations
    E.g. FR 630
  • Establishment Code
  • Acts
    E.g. Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation
    Sri Lanka Braodcasting Corporation
    State Printing Corporation Act
    Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Act
  • Circulars
    E.g. Public Administration Circulars
    Management Services Circulars
    Internal Circulars
    Treasury Circulars
  • Other Guidelines
    E.g. Good Governance
    Tender Procedure & Procurement

   Main Hierarchy ( Designation, Contact Numbers )  

Nawarathna sir.jpg

Mr. N.M.D.Nawarathna
Designation : Chief Accountant

Telephone : 011-2513464

Fax           : 011-2513437

E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 AACC 2

Miss. B.R.Ranasingha

Designation: Accountant

Telephone: 011-2513442

Fax           : 0112513442

E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

{jathumbnailoff}

   Main Objective   
Assisting the management of the Ministry of Finance & Mass Media to achieve excellent performance by participating in the system of internal control of administration operations to achieve the mission of the Ministry.

   Role of the Division   
Assisting the management, to create a productive public service, while satisfying both internal and external customers.

   The Main Activities of the Division   

  • Maintain personal files of the internal staff of the Ministry, officers of the combined services , the personal files of SLAS officers transferred to the institutions coming under the Ministry, enrollment of staff, providing loans to the staff, Providing Agrahara Insurance & leave application duties.
  • Appointing Board of Directors to the Institutions which comes under the purview of the Ministry.
  • Taking Legal actions for the law-suits concerning the Ministry and its affliated institutions .
  • Operating State Printing Committee according to Financial Regulation 630.
  • Presenting Cabinet Memoranda.
  • Providing answers to Parliament Questions & duties of the Consultative Committee Meetings of the Ministry.
  • Guiding and directing administrative activities and management functions of the affliated institutions.
  • Functioning of Audit and Management Committees.
  • Guiding of HR activities of the affliated institutions .
  • Conducting disciplinary inquiries and preliminary investigations.
  • Conducting and organizing training and development programmes.
  • Managing Productivity and Quality Improvement programmes.
  • Handling of the grievances of the staff.
  • Maintenance and repairing of fixed assets of the Ministry.
  • Maintenance, Electricity, Water, Telephone Bills, Transport & Postal duties.
  • Assist in Foreign travels, Scholarships & Training programmes of the Ministry & the affliated institutions .
  • Duties of the Human Rights Commission.
  • Duties of the Public Petition Committee.
  • Duties of the leave applications regarding foreign leave of the employees in the Ministry & the affliated Institutions .
  • Supervision of activities of all the institutions coming under purview of the Ministry.

   Special programmes / Projects / Workshop   

  • Holding Management Meetings
  • Progress Review of the affiliated institutions of Ministry

   Forms / Acts / Regulations 

  • Financial Regulations
    E.g. FR 630
  • Establishment Code
  • Acts
    E.g. Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation Act
    Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation Act
    State Printing Corporation Act
    Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Act
  • Circulars
    E.g. Public Administration Circulars
    Management Services Circulars
    Internal Circulars
    Treasury Circulars
  • Other Guidelines
    E.g. Good Governance
    Tender Procedure & Procurement

   Main Hierarchy ( Designation, Contact Numbers )   

_MG_0236.jpg

Mrs. Ramani Gunawardhana


Designation : Additional Secretary (Admin)
Telephone : 011-2513398
Fax : 011-2512346

E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 IMG_0083.jpg

 Mrs.N.W.Dias
Designation : Senior Assistant Secretary (Admin)
Telephone : 011-2514631
Fax : 011-2513462

E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Assistant Secretary (Admin).jpg

 Mr. M.P. Bandara
Designation : Assistant Secretary (Admin)
Telephone : 011-2512524
Fax : 011-2513470

E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

dsc 2600

Mrs. A. A. P. K. Amarasinghe
Designation : Translator
Telephone : 011-2514631
Fax : 

E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

{jathumbnailoff}

  Objective   

Co-ordination of electronic and print media institutions, upgrading professional standards of journalists, facilitating to update the field of media with sophisticated technology, development of infrastructure for the advancement of television and cinema industry and broadening access to information for the general public.

 

  Functions   

  • Formulating policy and planning related to the field of media
  • Development of infrastructure facilities in the media field
  • Uplifting welfare and professionalism of journalists
  • Reviewing progress of the Ministry and institutions affiliated to the Ministry
  • Providing media sponsorship for nationally significant events
  • Issuance of licenses for television and radio broadcasting services
  • Welfare activities to uplift the status and professionalism of journalists
  • Introduction of Code of Ethics for the development of media
  • Submission of the Annual Performance Report of the Ministry to the Parliament
  • Preparation of the Annual Action Plan of the Ministry

 

  Programmes and Projects to be implemented in year 2016   

 1. Implementation of the Right to Information Act

        Activities in relation to the implementation of the Right to Information Act
        Establishment of the Information Commission
        Conducting programmes to make aware public officers and the general public on the Right to Information Act
        Appointment and training of Information Officers

2. Conducting the Media Awards Ceremony

3. Implementation of Madya Purawara Housing Scheme for journalists

4. Providing motorcycles for journalists at concessionary rates

5. Introduction of digital technology for television broadcasting

6. Construction of Pandith Amaradeva Sangeetha Asapuwa

7. Implementation of national programmes steered by the Presidential Secretariat at Ministry level

      Nutrition Programme
      Dengue Eradication Campaign
      Mathin Nidahas Ratak - Drug Prevention Campaign
      Programme on prevention of Kidney Disease
      Five-year work plan for implementation of Official Language Policy
      National Programme on Protecting Children 2016 2018
      Programme against all kinds of discrimination against women, assurance of gender equality and preventing Gender Based Violence

 

 

Main Hierarchy (Designation, Contact Numbers)  

 

Thilaka.jpg

Mrs.  J.M.Thilaka Jayasundara
Designation : Additional Secretary (D/P)
Telephone : 011-2513 943
Fax : 011-2512 343
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 Director development.jpg

Mr. J.W.S. Kithsiri

Designation : Director (Development)
Telephone : 011-2513 470
Fax : 011-2513 470
E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  Miss. W.A.P. Wellappuli
Designation : Director (Planning))
Telephone : 011-2513 470
Fax : 011-2514 351
E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
PLANINND Mrs. M. C. S. Devasurendra
Designation : Assistant Director (Planning)
Telephone : 011-2513466
Fax : 011-2513466
E-Mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 AS DEVELOPMENT  Miss. T.A.S.S. Karunarahna
Designation : Assistant Secretary (Development)
Telephone : 011-2513 451
Fax : 011-2513 462
E-mail : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 
Designation : Assistant Secretary (Development)
Telephone : 011-2513 451
Fax : 011-2513 462
E-mail : 

{jathumbnailoff}

 

{jathumbnailoff}

Vision

“A well – informed, pluralistic and dynamic society”

Mission

“Formulating, Facilitating, Implementing, Monitoring and Evaluating  policies and strategies in order to establish a people friendly, development – oriented, free and responsible Sri Lankan media culture”

01. Establishment of an Emergency Ambulance Health Protection Service
The health safety received within the first 30 minutes is very important in order to save the life of persons who meet with accidents, a disaster or an emergency, to prevent sustaining further injuries, and to provide expeditious cure. At present such an Emergency Ambulance Health Protection Service is successfully being carried out in India. By further enhancing the relationship between Sri Lanka and India, the Indian Prime Minister during his recent visit to Sri Lanka agreed to provide such an Emergency Ambulance Health Protection Service to Sri Lanka as well. Accordingly it has been proposed to establish a non profitable Emergency Ambulance Health Protection Service to improve the quality health service of Sri Lanka covering the rural areas of the country with 297 Ambulances, and 2,000 trained work force under 4 stages. The Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal made by the Hon. Prime Minister Mr. Ranil Wickremasinghe as the Minister of Policy Planning, Economic Affairs, Child, Youth and Cultural Affairs to implement under the first stage of this programme an Emergency Ambulance Health Protection Service to cover Western and Southern provinces with 88 Ambulances and obtain from the Indian Government a grant of 8 Million U.S.Dollars required as expenditure for this purpose.

Plantation Industries Minister Lakshman Kiriella yesterday said that US President Barack Obama is to pay an official visit to Sri Lanka at the end of this year. He said the US President has promised to visit Sri Lanka at end of this year. Kiriella added that many foreign leaders are prepared to visit Sri Lanka as they have confidence in the new government's commitment towards restoration of democracy and good governance in the country.

US Secretary of State John Kerry and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already visited Sri Lanka, such visits coming after a lapse of many decades, he said.

Journalists do not fulfill their obligations to society by exposing large scale fraud and malpractices by the affluent, Legal Advisor to Journalists in Matara and Southern Provincial Councillor Jayantha Pathirana said.

He was addressing a forum on legal issues faced by journalists held at Polhena Matara last Sunday.

Parents and teachers should direct children to become outstanding citizens with thoughtful minds and sensitive hearts who will contribute to the nation's development, Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake said.

The minister made this observation at 'Abiyogaya 2015' the award ceremony of Gampaha Bandaranayake College organised by the college Media Unit at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium on Tuesday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan warmly welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena, Mrs Jayanthi Sirisena and the Sri Lankan delegation during the official welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, March 26, 2015. The President is on a four-day official visit to the People’s Republic of China.

Media persons had to face numerous threats during the previous regime. A fear psychosis was created among media persons to discourage them from exposing massive corruption involved in transactions and the contracts of the previous government. Many investigative journalists left the country in fear of death, Media and Parliamentary Affairs Minister and the Chief Organizer of the Government, Gayantha Karunatillake said.

Visiting Indian PM was received by president Maithripala Sirisena  at Presidential secretariat, a short while ago.

The government has planned to incorporate the Right to Information into the Constitution to give it a legal recognition as a fundamental right.According to Media and Parliamentary Affairs Ministry Secretary Karunaratne Paranavithana,the government is planning to add a clause to Article 14 of the Constitution which ensures freedom of speech,assembly and movement as a fundamental right. “Article 14 of the Constitution will be amended to recognizethe right to information as a fundamental right,” he said. Paranavithana said a number of Supreme Court judgements have upheld that the right to information is a fundamental right.

Media Minister Gayantha Karunatilleke meets Japanese Foreign Affairs State Minister Minoru Kiuchi at the ministry on Saturday. Discussions centred on media freedom and related media technical developments since the change of government.ÂÂ Picture by Sulochana Gamage.

Mass Media and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gayantha Karunatilleke said he is dedicated to build the background necessary for provincial correspondents to perform their noble profession in dignity in providing news about developments taking place in the provinces to the news-hungry public in an impartial manner. The minister said this addressing representatives of provincial correspondents from 25 districts and their state media chiefs at a discussion held at his ministry on February 23.

The US had expressed its interest to invite President Maithripala Sirisena for an official visit to the US. This was disclosed by Cabinet spokesman Minister Rajitha Senarathne at the weekly press briefing. Sequel to the discussions held by Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera with State Department officials, Minister Senarathne indicated the likelihood of the President undertaking an official visit to the US during the latter part of this year.

The Frontline Magazine has not been banned in Sri Lanka, but the Customs Department has stopped the release of bulk of the latest issue of the Magazine, Media Ministry Secretary Karunarathna Paranaithana told Daily News yesterday. The Secretary said the Customs officials have done so due to a contempt material found in the magazine that would be detrimental to the national security.

President Maithripala Sirisena arrived at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport yesterday on a four day official visit to India. President Maithripala Sirisena is in India on an invitation extended to him by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, President Sirisena was received by State Minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping P. Radhakrishnan on behalf on the Indian Government.

Welcoming a group of Indian journalists, Media Minister Gayantha Karunathillake said he would extend his good offices to promote mutual relations between media personnel from India and Sri Lanka.

Six media members of Indian Media Journalists’ Association (IMJU) called on the Media Minister at the office of the Chief Government Whip in Parliament yesterday. The group was headed by IMJU president Bala Bhashkara Rao and secretary Arun Sharma. They held discussions with the minister and ministry secretary Karunarathna Paranavithana.

In a message to mark the Chinese New Year, President Maithripala Sirisena noted the importance of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Sri Lanka last September and affirmed that ties between Sri Lanka and China will continue steadfastly during his tenure.

President Maithripala Sirisena is scheduled to undertake a State visit to India from February 15 -18, 2015 on an invitation extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

War was ended physically, now time for genuine co-existance Will connect North South in true national reconciliation Recalls contributions of all patriots As pledged, and endorsed by the election victory on January 8, the government will effect a radical change in the political, economic, social and cultural landscape in order to impart the people the real sense of good governance, President Maithripala Sirisena said.

The appointment of the new Chief Justice and strengthening of democratic credentials is a matter of pride as much for the Commonwealth as it is for Sri Lanka., said Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma, on conclusion of his official visit to Sri Lanka. Sharma said “Sri Lanka’s people have strongly validated their country’s democratic credentials and this is a matter of pride as much for the Commonwealth as it is for Sri Lanka. “We look forward to a continued and strong partnership over the remainder of Sri Lanka’s term as Commonwealth Chair-in-Office and in the years beyond.”

Sri Lanka's 67th Independence Day celebrations at the Parliament Grounds, Sri Jayawardenapura, Kotte

Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka  invited  journalist fraternity to do their sacred job without any fear or favour. No journalist will be harassed or forced hereafter  to slavishly work  for those in power  and hence they could  perform their duties  with dignity and decorum.

*Loss incurred by hedging deals is 60 million USD

*Listed out details of financial losses incurred due to borrowings/developmental projects of the previous regime that has resulted in an added financial burden to the people

Media Minister and Government Chief Whip Gayantha Karunatilake said he would request journalists who fled the country in the past to save their lives from the oppression of the previous regime, to return home and engage in media activities by using their pen freely as before. He would guarantee that the media would not be harassed or oppressed under the tenure of the present government as before.

Former Dinamina Editor Saman Wagaarachchi, a veteran media personality has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (ANCL). He was one of the founder journalists of the Lakbima newspaper, and also a Deputy Editor and subsequently as Chief Editor of the same newspaper. He had also served as the Chief Editor of the Irida Peramuna weekely.

Kavan Ratnayake assumed office as Chairman \ Managing Director of the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited this morning.

Media and Parliamentary Affairs Ministry Secretary Karunaratne Paranavithana in a press release issued yesterday stated the ministry has drawn its attention to various news items published through various media institutions on the removal of Bandula Padmakumara from the Mulpituwa morning news review programme he presented over the Swarnavahini television channel.

Active preparations are underway to launch the national anti-corruption programme, Media Minister and Government Chief Whip Gayantha Karunathilaka told the Daily News yesterday.

Mass Media & Information Minister Gayantha Karunathilake assumed duties.

His Holiness Pope Francis was welcomed on arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport yesterday by President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, First Lady Jayanthi Pushpakumari and other delegates with the Presidential entourage. Pictures by President’s Media Unit and Sudath Nishantha.

Karunarathna Paranavithana assumed duties as the Mass Media and Information Ministry Secretary yesterday. Additional Secretary K.W.T.N. Amarathunga is also in the picture.

President Maithripala Sirisena appointed 27 Cabinet Ministers, 10 State Ministers and eight Deputy Ministers at a ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo yesterday, where the parliamentarians took oaths.

The Pope is here, and the new Cabinet is sworn in and there couldn’t be better tidings this New Year, 2015. Both events are of momentous import, in different but also parallel ways. Pope Francis 1 is known as the People’s Pope, a humble servant of God who chose as his papal moniker Francis, to honour St. Francis of Assisi whose followers are said to have ‘celebrated and venerated poverty’ in their day.

Well known journalist, author and state official Karunaratne Paranavithana has been appointed Mass Media and Information Ministry Secretary, by President Maithripala Sirisena.

President Maithripala Sirisena took oaths before senior most Supreme Court Judge K. Siripavan while UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn-in as Prime Minister on Friday at Independence Square.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a congratulatory message to President Maithripala Sirisena reaffirmed India's continued solidarity and support for Sri Lanka.

Elections Commissioner declares Maithripala Sirisena as President elect polling in 6,217,162 (51.28%) votes. 

Police Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana yesterday said the 2015 Presidential election was conducted in a peaceful manner with no incident that deprived any person of his right to vote reported from any part of the island.

Fifteen million, forty four thousand and four hundred and ninety (15,044,490) voters will go to the polls to elect the country's seventh Executive President today. 

Please publish modules in offcanvas position.