RS. 80.00 PAGES 48 / SECTIONS 5 VOL. 02 – NO. 31 SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2020 Maintain Distance, Stay Safe www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk LONG PATH PARLIAMENT: MONEY PRINTING: PROVE YOU FOR ECONOMIC TO RECONVENE FAULTY TAX CAN FUNCTION, REVIVAL OR NOT? REFORMS BLAMED SEC TELLS CSE »SEE PAGE 8 »SEE PAGE 9 »SEE PAGE 6 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 Colombo from curfew to lockdown z Offices opened; people allowed to walk z Rotating ID number system introduced

BY AGRA RANASINGHE extended beyond 4 May, such a Province are guaranteed an end to freedom to choose employees from within walking distance. system has all the attributes of a what would by then be a six-week different divisions to come into office Even for these needs, citizens will Colombo is likely to shift from curfew to a lockdown from 4 lockdown akin to those imposed curfew. on different days. only be permitted to go out based May onwards, with greater freedom of mobility for citizens throughout the western world. Heads of government and non- Citizens are not allowed to stay on the last number on their identity and less restrictions on economic activity. A lockdown is generally regarded government offices have been ordered on the roads and gather in places card, even to fulfil their essential as less restrictive than curfew, to discuss further plans pertaining so as to prevent the spread of the needs. The conditions are imposed Under this potential lockdown, yesterday (25) evening and these with greater mobility and greater to the work process within next virus. Public transportation will be as follows. offices will be allowed to open, travel measures apply to the districts of individual responsibility by citizens, week and all the offices should be restricted only for employees and Citizens whose last digit on between districts will be permitted Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, and while imposing curfew is a measure opened at 10 a.m. daily. Only one- essential workers and other people their identity card is 1 or 2 will be for work purposes, and citizens will Puttalam. aimed at keeping people at home in third of the workers can be present are required to stay at home. As the allowed to step out of their houses on be allowed to step out of their homes Even though the President’s Office fear of arrest. in departments, corporations, and statement reads, people are only Mondays, 3 or 4 on Tuesdays, 5 or 6 to fulfil essential needs. in its statement has said that these Therefore, whether the Government government offices. Other workers allowed to go out to buy medicines on Wednesdays, 7 or 8 on Thursdays, The statement in this regard was relaxation measures would come lifts curfew on 4 May or shifts to a can continue to work from home. or to fulfil other essential needs, and and 9 or 0 on Fridays. issued by the President's Office into effect if the curfew was to be lockdown, citizens of the Western The officials have been given the that too only to shops or pharmacies Contd. on page 2

Heavy Army presence around P’ment RELIEF FOR ELECTRICITY CONSUMERS z Eran, Harsha request clarification security changes. What was the Bills only for threat assessment? Was there In a letter to the Secretary General armed forces and questioned the a terrorist threat? We have not of Parliament, former Ministers Speaker on what necessitated such received any indication of a threat Eran Wickramaratne and Harsha security arrangements. that necessitated a change of usual units consumed de Silva have revealed that “With an islandwide curfew security arrangements,” they ask z No additional charges for March and April the perimeter of the Parliament and a lockdown, we wanted to in a letter dated 24 April. Complex is being guarded by the know what necessitated such Contd. on page 2 BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Power and Energy Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said. The Government has decided He told The Sunday Morning not to charge any additional that the Ceylon Electricity Board amount in the March and April (CEB) would charge only for the Back to business No foreign electricity bills to avoid causing units used by the consumers. monitors? any inconvenience to consumers, Contd. on page 2 It is highly unlikely that international observers would be brought down to monitor the parliamentary elections, The Sunday Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2

GRADUATE RECRUITS Yet to receive allowance The monthly allowances promised by the Government for newly recruited graduates are yet to be paid, The Sunday Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 Colombo MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT curfew

The Peliyagoda Central Fish Market Complex reopened for trade yesterday continues Seeks Rs. (25) after the 529 people working there tested negative for Covid-19 The curfew will continue till 4

PHOTO LALITH PERERA May in the districts of the Western 1.4 b to pay Province, including Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, and Puttalam. salaries ISSUING CURFEW PASSES FOR CANDIDATES Contd. on page 2 BY SARAH HANNAN

Minister of Passenger Transport No powers says EC Rains to Management Mahinda Amaraweera BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA during this pandemic. Therefore, will seek Cabinet approval to release the issuing of curfew passes is intensify funds of Rs. 1.4 billion to pay salaries The Election Commission (EC) the jurisdiction of the Police, of public transport employees. has no powers to issue curfew not the Election Commission,” The Minister said the estimated daily passes, The Sunday Morning learnt. Deshapriya said. after today revenue loss for the Sri Lanka Transport EC Chairman Mahinda He said that candidates, The Department of Meteorology Board (SLTB), Sri Lanka Railways (SLR), Deshapriya said that it was up to as individual citizens, could predicts that showery conditions and the Department of Motor Traffic the Police to issue curfew passes. request curfew passes from their over the island are likely to (DMT) accumulated to Rs. 121 million. “Curfew was imposed for the respective police stations. intensify after today (26). Contd. on page 2 health security of the people Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning NEWS Sunday, April 26, 2020

BY SARAH HANNAN RACKETEERS INVADE EASTERN AND UVA PROVINCE FOREST RESERVES Amidst the islandwide curfew, organised groups have been misusing their curfew passes and land clearance permits to gain access to forest reserves, where they have engaged in illegal land acquisitions and Forests under fire timber rackets. Illegal land acquisition and timber rackets aplenty Several such incidents were reported since the beginning of April and the area Police along with the Forest Department officers have been able to apprehend the suspects and charge them in courts. Pamburugaswewahinna Reserve in Gomarankadawala is one of the few forests situated in the Trincomalee District. The forest is home to many endemic trees of Sri Lanka yet in the recent past, an organised group of land encroaches destroyed about a 20-acre land area of the forest by cutting down massive trees such as weera, palu, Trees cleared in Pankulama Forest PHOTOS LAKMAL BADUGE FROM TRINCOMALEE buruttha, and Ceylon ebony. It is reported that at least 280 Department of Forest Conservation to carried out during the curfew. number of elephants and wildlife. illegally acquire more than 75 trees had been felled during the carry out an investigation in the area. It is said that this group had It is said that this land acquisition acres of land from Weherakema to deforestation process. Two of the During the investigation obtained a permit to clear a land is being carried out by organised Sellakataragama, an area which is suspects had been later arrested by they were able to retrieve the area and had also obtained groups with the intervention of a located one-and-a-half kilometres the Gomarankadawala Police. electrical saws that were used a curfew pass to carry out local politician in Kataragama. along the Galahitiya Road, The suspects along with a to cut the trees. In addition work during the curfew. Residents said that the group was Kandasuridugama, Kataragama. few more people had entered to that, the Police had also However, they had previously involved in a number of It is learnt that they are already the Pamburugaswewahinna observed that the group misused the permit and racketeering activities where they occupying the land with agricultural Reserve on 5 April and cleared had damaged several curfew pass and entered illegally acquired land which were equipment and have commenced about 10 acres of the forest ancient ruins within the the forest reserve to cut wildlife habitats and sold them to constructions on temporary tents undertow at the banks of forest reserve as well. down these valuable residents and businessmen in other and concrete pillars. the reservoir and then used Gomarankadawala Area trees. areas. Kataragama Special Task Force electrical saws to fell the Forest Officer Parakum The Kuchchaveli More than 30 acres of land Camp Officer in Charge (OIC) M. massive trees on an additional Bandra said: “The timber Police are carrying out have been illegally damaged Palliyaguru said: “We are not able land area of 10 acres from the felled trees will further investigations. in the adjacent areas of to act on this land acquisition case. be sent to the State Timber An illegal land Pallavakulam, which is located We can intervene if the request is The suspects along with few Corporation. The Police acquisition incident was in the Pankulama Forest. Trees made by the Department of Wildlife more people had entered the already started investigations reported to have taken place and small shrubs were cut Conservation. We can also arrest Pamburugaswewahinna Reserve on the incident and recorded in the Uva Province. With down and burnt, and many and hand over the culprits to the on 5 April and cleared about 10 statements from 12 persons. A residents in the area saying that scrubs cleaned Police." acres of the forest undertow at the search operation has been launched an organised group had taken It is reported that Kataragama banks of the reservoir and then used to locate the other four suspects that advantage of the curfew period to Residents of the area said that the Police OIC S.U. Liyanagama has electrical saws to fell the massive fled the scene when we arrived.” More than 30 acres of land has illegally acquire forest land in the government officials who inspected deployed police teams to take trees on an additional land area of In a similar fashion, the been illegally damaged in the Kandasuridugama Grama Niladhari the land of the Yala National Park immediate action regarding this 10 acres. Pankulama Forest in Kuchchaveli adjacent areas of Pallavakulam, Division bordering the Yala in front of the Kataragama Gam incident. Upon hearing about the forest had also been destroyed by a group which is located in the Pankulama National Park of the Kataragama Udawa area were able to identify All attempts to contact the destruction incident, Governor of people. The Kuchchaveli Police Forest. Trees and small shrubs were Divisional Secretariat. that the area had been cleared Minister of Environment, Wildlife, of Eastern Province Anuradha managed to arrest five persons cut down and burnt, and many The reserve belongs to the illegally, and established fences. Lands, and Land Development S.M. Yahampath had instructed the and charged them with illegal scrubs cleaned. Department of Wildlife Conservation A group of more than 15 Chandrasena for comment proved Gomarankadawala Police and the deforestation. All these activities have been (DWC) and is inhabited by a large persons have taken measures to futile.

Contd. from page 1

normal electricity tariff was calculated for However, since the elections had been the month of May,” Amaraweera noted. Colombo from... consumers whose consumption is less than postponed, the Government had transferred Ministry of Passenger Transport Rains to... The Police and Army will keep track of 60 units as follows: The energy charge the recruited graduates to the Office of Management Media Spokesperson W.M.D. Showers or thundershowers will whether citizens obey the rules in order to for the first 30 units was Rs. 2.50 per unit Medical Officer of Health (MOH) with Wanninayake, elaborating on the same, occur in several places in the Western, decide whether to continue with the health together with a fixed charge of Rs. 30; and the coronavirus pandemic, he said, adding said: “The salaries for March was paid for Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, North measures imposed by the Government. from 30-60 units, Rs. 4.85 per unit will be that there were graduates who had given all institutions. However, a cabinet paper Western, and Uva Provinces in the evening Speaking with The Sunday Morning, charged together with a fixed amount of Rs. up their previous jobs to get government had been released seeking approval to or night. Police Media Spokesman Jaliya Senaratne 60. appointments. release funds from the Treasury to pay the Light showers are likely over the western said that all the police officers will try to And consumers whose usage is over 60 “The families of these graduates are not April salaries. A total sum of Rs. 1.4 billion and southern coastal areas during the educate the public before making arrests. units is charged according to the following: even entitled for any government allowance is requested from the Treasury and the morning too. “We have given instructions to all the 0-60 units at Rs. 7.85; 61-90, Rs. 10; 91-120, as they have been given the appointments,” Ministry hopes that Cabinet approval will Fairly heavy rainfall of about 50 mm is police stations through our internal process. Rs. 27.75; and 121-180, Rs. 32, together Sooriyarachchi said. be signalled for the same next week.” likely in some places in the Sabaragamuwa Therefore, we informed the officers with Rs. 0, Rs. 90, Rs. 480, and Rs. 480, in The union is to meet the EC Chairman Wanninayake added that although Province and in the Kalutara, Nuwara Eliya, to follow the instructions given in the an additional amounts, respectively. next week to discuss the matter. trains are operating, there are not enough Galle, and Matara Districts. President’s notice. At the very first stage, we As explained by the Ministry however, The Government earlier promised the passengers, and for buses, since the The general public is kindly requested would not arrest any person violating those the additional amount would not be charged newly recruited graduates the March maximum allowed number of passengers is to take adequate precautions to minimise instructions. We hope to educate them and from the consumers but they would have to allowance of Rs. 20,000. 25, the income is underscored by the cost to damages caused by lightning activity we hope to carry out awareness programmes pay the unit price. However, EC Chairman Mahinda deploy the bus on the route. and localised strong winds during using loudspeakers and other activities The Minister gave these instructions to the Deshapriya ordered the Secretary to the “For example, the fuel cost for all buses thundershowers. covering the island. And thereafter, we will CEB during a meeting with CEB officials. Ministry Public Administration, Internal that were deployed in the Batticaloa District Misty conditions can be expected at some strictly implement the instructions.” When asked about the amount in Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local was Rs. 200,000 and the revenue that places in the Sabaragamuwa and Central Furthermore, the statement advised people additional charges that would be reduced Government to suspend the training was generated from all these buses was Provinces during the morning. to continue to adhere to safety precautions from the bill, the Minister explained: programme for the newly recruited graduates Rs. 76,000. The situation is pretty much The weather forecast for the fishing such as wearing masks and practicing good “Usually, when a consumer’s usage exceeds until a week after the election results are the same in the other districts as well,” and naval community indicates that wind hygiene as they did before. certain amount of units, the unit price published. Wanninayake said. speeds can reach 20-30 kmph, and 40 kmph Travel between districts will remain increases. But considering the inconvenience Appointment letters were said to be issued It is said that the DMT will require at times in the sea areas from Puttalam to restricted with people being allowed faced by the consumers, the Ministry to 45,585 graduates by the end of February Rs. 90 million and Rs. 110 million, Mannar, and Mannar to Kankansanthurai, to travel between districts mainly for has decided to charge only for the units before the dissolution of Parliament. respectively, to pay their May salaries. while wind speed from Kankasanthurai to employment purposes and the provision of consumed.” Meanwhile, when The Sunday Morning As suggested, if the Department manages Trincomalee, and Colombo to Puttalam can essential services. In addition, the Minister has also directed contacted Co-Cabinet Spokesman Dr. to opens area offices for business for a reach between 20-30 kmph. Schools, universities, tuition classes, other the CEB not to issue red bills for March and Ramesh Patirana, he noted that Cabinet week, the matter should resolve. It is Showers or thundershowers will educational institutions, and cinemas will April and also not to disconnect any electricity approval had been granted to provide the noteworthy that the DMT pays their staff occur in several places in the afternoon continue to be closed until further notice. supply due to outstanding amounts. allowance for the graduates last Wednesday. salaries using the revenue received and including Puttalam to Mannar, Pottuvil to In districts where curfew has been lifted, a However, the CEB requested the public in “The Government will pay the allowance does not depend on the Treasury to pay Hambantota, Hambantota to Galle, Galle to curfew may be imposed in certain areas that curfew-relaxed areas to pay their electricity as promised,” he assured. their salaries. Colombo, and Colombo to Puttalam. are identified as high-risk zones. bills. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Owing to the country being placed under Meanwhile, the Heat Index is expected Functions such as pilgrimages, trips, and quarantine curfew, the revenue losses to reach “extreme caution” levels in some meetings are strictly prohibited. experienced in the past 45 days by each places in the North Western Province No foreign... Colombo curfew... of the institutions are estimated at Rs. 3.6 and in the Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Elections Commissioner General Saman This was announced yesterday (25) billion for SLTB, Rs. 675 million for SLRD Kilinochchi, Trincomalee, and Polonnaruwa Heavy Army... Sri Ratnayake told The Sunday Morning evening by the Government after it for passenger services, and Rs. 1.3 billion Districts. The Natural Hazards Early The letter goes on to say that one organ that the Covid-19 situation wouldn’t make it reconsidered its earlier decision to lift for DMT. Warning Centre warns that heat cramps of government must not be allowed to possible to invite foreign election monitors. the curfew in the Western Province from and heat exhaustion are possible while encroach on another. “There are no flights operating. tomorrow (27) onwards. continuous activity could result in “It is the responsibility of all citizens Logistically alone, it would be impossible to The curfew will be lifted tomorrow from 5 No powers... heatstroke. and especially those paid out of the public get down international monitors,” he said. a.m. to 8 p.m. in all districts except Colombo, Candidates of the upcoming The Heat Index in Jaffna, Anuradhapura, purse to maintain peace and safeguard the He added that even if logistics were not an Gampaha, Kalutara, and Puttalam. parliamentary election, including United Batticaloa, Ampara, Moneragala, separation of powers between the three issue, the availability of such monitors was It further stated that even if the curfew National Party (UNP) Colombo District Hambantota, Matara, Galle, Ratnapura, organs of government, i.e. the Executive, in question. was to be continued in high-risk areas, the candidate Oshada Herath, requested for Kalutara, Colombo, Gampaha, and Kegalle the Legislature, and the Judiciary, which are “Most of these monitors are engaged in laws will be relaxed so that governmental curfew passes from the EC Chairman. will be at “caution” levels. The public in the essential components of a constitutional other full-time jobs, so that too would be a and non-governmental organisations can The Chairman said that candidate these areas will experience fatigue with democracy. Sri Lanka has had a long restriction for us,” he added. be reopened on 4 May under the rules and numbers would be given in early May and prolonged exposure and activity, while tradition of safeguarding freedoms and – Skandha Gunasekara regulations issued by the Government. that the Police must make sure movement continuous activity could result in heat protecting all three organs of government. during the curfew is equal for all candidates. cramps. We must ensure that no one organ of “The contesting numbers of the The public is urged to stay hydrated government is permitted to encroach Yet to... Seeks Rs. 1.4 b... candidates will be gazetted on 4 May. and take breaks in the shade as often as into the preserve of any other organ of Development Officers’ Service “The funds requested through the While it is up to the Police to issue curfew possible; when indoors, check up on the government,” the letter further read. Union (DOSU) President Chandana Treasury will settle the salaries of SLTB passes to candidates, the Police is also elderly and the sick; never leave children Sooriyarachchi told The Sunday Morning and SLRD. However, the DMT will responsible for ensuring that curfew passes unattended if you are using a vehicle; when that the appointments had been questioned have to look at opening their area offices are distributed fairly among candidates if outdoors, limit strenuous outdoor activities, Bills only... by the Election Commission (EC) as the in other districts to issue licenses and they are to be issued,” he said, adding that find shade, and stay hydrated; and wear According to the Public Utilities appointments were made after the election hopefully, one week of business would the Commission would inform the Police lightweight and white or light-coloured Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), the had been declared. raise sufficient funds to pay the salaries for regarding the details of the candidates. clothing. the sunday morning 3 Sunday, April 26, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

Morning, a cabinet paper had low-income earners affected due been submitted seeking approval to the current pandemic and also to go for an agreement with to control the spread of the virus IOC to get back 25 tanks at and quarantine processes, he said. China Bay, to which the IOC "Even though fuel prices had unofficially disagreed. As have not been reduced, we are a result, the Government now passing the benefit indirectly seeks government-to-government through the subsidies provided intervention. by the Government, as all profits However, speaking to The earned by the CPC were currently Sunday Morning in that regard, transferred to the Treasury," he Power and Energy Minister added. Amaraweera noted that the Government was currently looking at possibilities of obtaining a few tanks from the The public are yet to China Bay tank farm for the CPC receive any benefit from the to store fuel. Government. Though they Minister Amaraweera, through said the prices of essentials the Foreign Affairs Ministry, will be reduced, it has now has sought the intervention of become much higher than it the Government of India to take was before back 25 tanks in China Bay. In JSS CPC Branch President failing to do so, the Minister has Ananda Palitha MASSIVE DECLINE IN GLOBAL OIL PRICES given instructions to the Urban Development Authority (UDA) to look for a suitable land in "If we reduce the fuel prices, Hambantota to build a tank farm. then the benefit would only go to those who have vehicles. We Amaraweera said however that the could have enjoyed the advantage Benefit being passed discussed with bus owners and funds have been credited to the in the future,” Palitha stressed. indirectly three-wheeler associations as Pressure Treasury and the mechanism has During the previous Despite vehement pressure well and they didn't agree to been conducted in a transparent Government, there was an attempt to reduce prices, Minister reducing the (fuel) prices as they manner. to lease out the China Bay tank Amaraweera stated that the fuel agreed only to reduce a little sum, farm, which has now been given prices would not be reduced, because practically, even if the Power, water bills should out on lease to the Indian Oil considering the current economic fuel prices are reduced, the prices also reduce Corporation (IOC) with their situation in the country. of other commodities will not be mounts Palitha went on to explain that consent last year, keeping 15 Speaking to The Sunday reduced, and therefore it will be since the fuel prices have reduced tanks with the CPC. The then Morning, he said that even useless. locally, the electricity bills and Opposition had objected and as though the world oil prices have “But currently, the Government well as the water bills of the a result, the CPC had lost that decreased, the country had not is using the money earned consumers would also go down. capacity. If the Government had received the low-priced fuel. through the sale of fuel to provide “The entire economy is based on gone ahead with the agreement, He added that the fuel usage facilities to the entire country on Govt. the fuel, and in a situation where the tanks could now be used for in the country had also gone in fighting the coronavirus," zTo reduce fuel and electricity prices the country is facing an economic storage, Palitha explained. down, causing the CPC to lose Amaraweera stressed. crisis, using part of the petroleum A similar dealing to what a considerable amount of sales "After providing other benefits, money to control the crisis can be Palitha explained had occurred during the lockdown. if there is more space, we will BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Where are the monies? understandable, but there should regarding the government-owned At present, the income earned look at reducing the fuel prices in The CPC’s situation is the same be accountability,” Palitha added. tank farm at the Hambantota by the CPC was the only income the future," he added. Consumers have raised as before global prices plunged, Meanwhile, consumer rights Port too. Unfortunately, the tank the Government had, as the Meanwhile, an official of the concerns on several issues even though local prices had not activists urged the Government farm is now owned by China and economy is not running at all. The Ministry explained that it would including the accountability been reduced, Palitha stressed. to reduce the March and April therefore the Government cannot profits earned by the CPC through take a minimum of another 45 and transparency of Due to the coronavirus situation, electricity bills considering the use it. the sale of petroleum products days to start using stocks of the the Government while local consumption had gone predicament of many consumers As learnt by The Sunday would be used to provide relief for low-priced fuel. managing the profits earned down; the Western Province who have lost their income due by the Ceylon Petroleum which usually sees sales of 60%, to the prevailing situation and Corporation (CPC) due to recorded only 20%, which had also taking into consideration the then increased to 40% last week. reduction of oil prices in the world the reduction in global oil Sales have gone down in all parts market as it has directly reduced prices and whether the of the country. the production cost of electricity. Government would reduce Despite the reduction in sales, National Movement for electricity tariffs in line with the CPC would have earned quite Consumer Rights Protection declining oil prices. a considerable amount in profits (NMCRP) President Ranjith due to plummeting oil prices in Vithanage told The Sunday Pressure is mounting on the the world market, the CPC trade Morning: “The CEB is paying Government to pass the benefits unionists said, pointing out that the around Rs. 35-45 per unit when of the world oil price reduction Government had not yet declared purchasing electricity and that was through the reduction of electricity the tax applied to fuel at present. because of the agreements signed tariffs, as the production cost of “The Government hasn’t either by the CEB.” electricity has been reduced in increased the tax or passed the Urging the Government to parallel with oil prices. benefit to the people,” Palitha cancel the agreement signed As alleged by CPC trade stressed. between the CEB and private unionists, neither the corporation He went on to question the power plants, Vithanage stressed nor the public received the account to which petroleum funds that the Government was earning benefits of the global fuel price go if it’s not mentioned in the Rs. 90 in profit per litre, and that reduction as the Government had CPC’s accounts. benefit should be passed onto not reduced fuel prices in line consumers. with international market prices In addition, the NMCRP has or given the benefit to the CPC also requested the Government to cover its loses as promised by to amend the electricity bills of the Minister in Charge, Power Even though fuel prices have March and April to provide some and Energy Minister Mahinda not been reduced, we are relief to consumers. Amaraweera, earlier this year. passing the benefit indirectly International oil prices Speaking to The Sunday through the subsidies provided continued to reduce last week, Morning, United National Party by the Government, as all with the price of Brent crude (UNP)-affiliated Jathika Sevaka profits earned by the CPC were falling below $ 16. The price Sangamaya (JSS) CPC Branch currently transferred to the has fallen to a more-than-two- Treasury President Ananda Palitha alleged Power and Energy Minister decade low, caused by a huge fall that the global petroleum prices Mahinda Amaraweera in demand due to the Covid-19 were recorded at an all-time low situation. last week due to the coronavirus In addition, the IEA Oil Market pandemic situation in the world “The Government has a duty Report (OMR) has indicated that and even before the pandemic to declare for what it uses this “global oil demand is expected to hit the country in late March, the money without just saying it is fall by a record 9.3 mb/d (millions global prices had gone down. used to control the coronavirus of barrels per day) year-on-year When the public questioned in the country. The public are yet in 2020. Global oil supply is set about a price reduction at the to receive any benefit from the to plunge by a record 12 mb/d beginning of this year, Minister Government. Though they said in May, after OPEC+ forged Amaraweera said the market the prices of essentials will be a historic output deal to cut prices were not fixed as it reduced, it has now become much production by 9.7 mb/d from an fluctuated daily and therefore the higher than it was before,” he agreed baseline level. As April local prices could not be changed. alleged. production was high, the effective Later, he said the advantage “Usually, the Government cut is 10.7 mb/d. Additional of the price reduction would be has an account called the Cess reductions are set to come from passed to the CPC to recover the Account, to which the petroleum other countries with the US and losses incurred. funds ideally should go. If they Canada seeing the largest declines. However, as claimed by have credited the money, the Total non-OPEC output falls could CPC trade unionists, the Government should declare that. reach 5.2 mb/d in 4Q20, and for CPC’s accounts did not show Otherwise, there is no record as the year as a whole, output may be any difference as it continued to what it uses the money for,” 2.3 mb/d lower than last year”, the reflecting the previous losses. Palitha continued. report stated. According to Palitha, the total As per calculations by the loan amount payable by the CPC JSS CPC Branch President, Lack of storage facilities was Rs. 618 billion while it pays the Government could now Meanwhile, questions were also a total of Rs. 1.2 billion as interest provide a litre of petrol at Rs. raised over the lack of storage for those loans. In addition, the 84 which would be inclusive of facilities in Sri Lanka as at present, CPC owed $ 425 million to Iran all government taxes and CPC the oil storage facilities can store while the Treasury owed the CPC production costs, a litre of diesel oil enough for only around 20-25 Rs. 640 billion for providing at Rs. 52, and kerosene at Rs. 20 days. subsidised fuel. Furthermore, the per litre. Since the CPC doesn’t have Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) Responding to the JSS CPC enough storage facilities, it was owed Rs. 50 billion to the CPC Branch President’s claims on the now unable to purchase and store for providing diesel for the CEB’s lack of transparency, speaking to fuel at these reduced global prices. power plants. The Sunday Morning, Minister “If we had storage facilities, we 4 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, April 26, 2019

BY AGRA RANASINGHE Beach erosion is a problem that all coastal Mount Beach countries face, and many solutions such as seawalls, revetments, groins, and project in rough seas breakwaters have been traditionally used as hard zEnvironmentalists voice grave concerns engineering solutions. zEnvironmental authorities defend project However, many researches have declared that such methods zWork permitted to continue through curfew cannot be used as long-term solutions because they interfere with dynamic coastal processes. It has also been suggested that soft engineering solutions such as beach nourishing can be used to deal with the coastal process Enabling state sector to as the best approach. Beach nourishment has been widely used by many countries around the world and Sri Lanka joined this trend and completed the first beach nourishment work from home programme along a stretch of 1.8 km in the Uswetakeiyawa zICTA rolls out several apps and online tools Palliyawatta area in early 2012. “We got Cabinet approval CCD Director General himself Under this project, sand pumped on 14 January 2020 to conduct had stated in 2019 that the Mount BY SARAH HANNAN Foreign relations gov.lk as a free and easy-to-use from the deep sea was used to fill the nourishment programme Lavinia Beach is not at a high The Ministry of Foreign Relations video conferencing platform based the coastline. A total of Rs. 270 in these beaches. Funds were risk of severe erosion but only Forty-five days into most established a web portal for all Sri on Jitsi (open-source project) for Sri million was allocated for this given by the Government for undergoes seasonal erosion which of the country’s workforce Lankans overseas to register at Lanka’s state sector. It allows one to project and it was awarded to a the project and 800,000 cubic does not necessitate projects such functioning remotely, some “Contact Sri Lanka” if they need easily build and deploy secure video foreign contractor. The project metres of sand were used for the as this. of the operations came to any support from the Government conferencing solutions. was completed in a year. whole project. This comprised of The Pearl Protectors a grinding halt as the work of Sri Lanka or any of its missions To host a meeting at meet.gov. Recently, a new project was 300,000 cubic metres for Calido Co-ordinator Muditha just could not be carried out overseas. lk, a user only has to click on the launched to restore beaches in Beach, 350,000 cubic metres Katuwawala said that, therefore, remotely. Registering online in the web link to open the page on the web Sri Lanka, specifically a 4 km for the stretch from Ratmalana it is dubious as to why the project portal allows the Ministry to reach browser (Firefox and Chrome are stretch between Angulana and to Angulana, and 150,000 was done in Mount Lavinia. This has been the reality for many out and provide assistance during the preferred browsers). Mount Lavinia and a stretch cubic metres were used for “In certain previous statements, of the state-owned institutions, emergencies such as the current After authenticated with a valid of 2 km in the Calido Beach in the Mount Lavinia Beach. The it was said that there were severe and having to get through to the Covid-19 pandemic. This portal user name/password provided Kalutara. total cost was Rs. 890 million,” risks in the Kalutara Calido Beach government officials too has proven connects Sri Lankans overseas with by ICTA to complete the hosting A 70-metre barrier between the Chandrakeerthi noted. and Angulana, but nothing had to be a nightmare over the past few stakeholders in Sri Lanka and the process, a user can share the room coasts of Angulana and Mount been said about Mount Lavinia, days. network of Sri Lankan missions name (or complete URL) with the Lavinia and a 40-metre barrier in where there was only little Prior to this situation, President abroad. remote parties. the Calido Beach are being built monsoon erosion. But suddenly, Gotabaya Rajapaksa had tasked the The portal also offers emergency While one is connected, a desktop by a company under this project. the operation was done during Information and Communication contact details of all Sri Lankan window (presentation) can be The project is carried out to Funds were given by the curfew, in a very short period. Technology Agency of Sri Lanka missions abroad. The data provided obtained if necessary. If a user needs put in place an artificial coastline Government for the project Even Mount Lavinia Hotel said (ICTA) to roll out an initiative where through this portal is protected to a password for a room, he/she can in Walikanna, opposite the and 800,000 cubic that they were not aware of the all state-owned institutions were ensure privacy of the overseas Sri add it and share it with the remote Ratmalana Railway Station by metres of sand were used project taking place. Now, Rs. digitised and most of its functions Lankans and will not be shared parties. mining natural sand reserves for the whole project. This 890 million has been spent on a computerised to speed up the without the consent of the users. ICTA has facilitated continuously 6 km off the beach. As per the comprised of 300,000 cubic project that won’t even last for workflow. In the long term, it is expected to to increase the adoption through project, around a 40-metre area metres for Calido Beach, four years,” Katuwawala stressed. Just after he resumed office, use the portal as an official source dedicated consultation and also of the beach has been filled 350,000 cubic metres for In addition, The Pearl President Rajapaksa visited the of information and will facilitate produced user guides to use this artificially so far. the stretch from Ratmalana Protectors Advocacy Co-ordinator Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) Sri Lankans overseas to obtain all platform. However, the beach in to Angulana, and 150,000 Maleesha Gunawardana said and the National Hospital of Sri services offered by the Government. Angulana between Kalpitiya and cubic metres were used for that the project been done Lanka to look at how the citizens’ Collaboration tools Moratuwa has been lost due to the Mount Lavinia Beach. without conducting an initial requests were being attended to. In Pre-arrival clearance and instant messaging the new nourishment programme The total cost was Rs. 890 environmental examination (IEE) his visit, he suggested that a token application across Govt. and the Calido Beach has eroded million or an EIA, which are essential system be in place to serve the A pre-arrival clearance process In a work from home situation, CCD Director General due to the sand barrier of 2 km. under the Coast Conservation citizens. for immigration at Bandaranaike the government officers require a Construction work on the Prabath Chandrakeerthi Act. “The President gave us a mandate International Airport, Katunayake. fast, reliable, and secure platform for project was in full swing over the “According to Section 16 of to be responsible for all ICT projects The airlines are instructed to provide collaboration and instant messaging past few days in Mount Lavinia There have been many the Coast Conservation Act, the that will have some impact on the further information about passengers across government authorities. ICTA under tight Police security. In concerns raised about the project Director General of the Coast citizens of Sri Lanka. ICTA was in the manifest, in particular the has proposed Slack for this purpose, accordance with the first stage with regard to its impact on the Conservation Department may asked to manage and supervise all origin of travel (the port first which has been successfully used of the project, 300,000 cubic environment. Chandrakeerthi require an IEE or an EIA for such projects. As a fast-moving embarked, not just last port). This at ICTA for some time for internal metres of sand were used for the also noted that this would only a project of this nature, and industry, the professionals in our process identifies passengers with communication. filling process and construction be effective for four years and thereafter invite the public to field should be able to fast-track high risk before they land, so the Slack provides mobile apps for was carried out by a foreign firm confirmed that no environmental make comments for a period of these projects,” ICTA Chairman authorities can be ready to take iOS and Android in addition to their with the involvement of a local impact assessment (EIA) was 30 days. However, it is apparent Jayantha De Silva noted. necessary measures on their arrival. web browser client and desktop company. Sand for the project done regarding the beach that an EIA has not been done During the Coivd-19 outbreak, the clients for macOS, Windows, and was being extracted from the sea nourishment project. The for the beach nourishment Government had instructed ICTA to Linux. in Ratmalana. nourishment is being done merely project at the Mount Lavinia collaborate with many institutions To join this communication The project encompasses 500 by filling sand where no barriers Beach that was taking place to facilitate the Government to network, a user must have a valid m of artificial beach in Mount are in place to mitigate the erosion amidst the curfew. The media continue its operations effectively and personal (non-shared) e-mail Lavinia, 1.5 km in Ratmalana, of the newly nourished areas. reported about complaints and citizens to continue their address. This may be the official and 2 km in Kalutara. However, Chandrakeerthi from residents and we too have lives with minimal disruptions by address as some organisations There have been many defended the project against received e-mails from residents introducing digital solutions and still have local mail server-based conflicting statements allegations of negative in the area who were concerned facilitating adoption across all addresses or any other email presented by residents in the environmental impact. about the environmental impacts segments. address which belongs to the area, environmentalists, and “This is not a new thing for of this project. For such large- Just over the past two months, the respective official. environmental conservation Sri Lanka as we have done scale projects that can have below apps have been developed There will be a central admin organisations with regard to the beach nourishment before. We significant negative impacts on to be used by the public and for the platform. Once a request is project. are not doing this to destroy the the sensitive marine ecosystems, government officials based on their made (the user is responsible for When contacted, Coast environment, but to protect it. it is crucial to have conducted requirements. making this request), he/she will Conservation Department This is the softest solution to an EIA and considered public The public are yet to be added to the system. The users Director General Prabath erosion. We could proceed with opinion,” Gunawardana noted. Health sector receive any benefit from the shall be approved by the authorised Chandrakeerthi said that people stone borders, but that would According to news shared on For the use of the health sector, Government. Though they person at the relevant organisations. started going against the project have negative impacts. There’s a media platforms, the operation the “My Health Sri Lanka” app said the prices of essentials Once in the system, users will when it commenced at the positive impact on tourism and of the beach nourishment and “Contact Tracing (DHIS2)” will be reduced, it has now have all the privileges to utilise the Mount Lavinia Beach. fisheries from this project,” he project in Mount Lavinia has not app were created. become much higher than it system. “We started the programme stated. abided by an EIA due to various My Health Sri Lanka was was before All government users, on 29 February from the Even during the period of reasons. designed to inform, engage, and JSS CPC Branch President irrespective of the number, will Calido Beach in Kalutara. curfew, the construction work The public have not been react to the deadly spread of Ananda Palitha be in a central channel for general Then we experienced erosion on the project had carried on given the opportunity to voice Covid-19. The mobile application communication. Depending upon from the Angulana Beach to without interruption. Explaining their concerns pertaining to the locally maps the trail of the mobile their rights, individual users will the Ratmalana Beach, and this the reasons for this, he said that project, because neither an IEE app user’s locations travelled so This system integrates the pre- be able to create their own user impacted the fisheries sector. if the project was halted due nor an EIA were conducted, that in an unfortunate event of the arrival clearance system with the groups for individual ministries, People feared living around to the pandemic and curfew, which normally would pave the app user being infected with the Ministry of Health’s national disease departments, other agencies, or there. There were many issues, the Government would have to way for public comments. virus, they can disclose the stored surveillance system so that all purely on the necessity. as well as erosion in the Mount pay Rs. 200,000 per hour to the As the sand is being dredged location history information with flagged travellers are automatically This procedure does not prevent Lavinia Beach. However, people contractor even if no work was only from 6 km away, people the authorities to protect their registered in the disease system. anyone from using other channels, only started talking about the being carried out. are worried that this may create family and friends who they have Then, Airport and Aviation Services but all are encouraged to use it as it project when it began at the One of the main organisations a sand vacuum which in a short associated with in the last 14 days. (Sri Lanka) Ltd. can meet flagged brings consistency and the highest Mount Lavinia Beach," he said. which are opposing the project period will be filled through All recorded location data is travellers at the gate directly and reliability. He said Cabinet approval had is The Pearl Protectors, which is coastal erosion, as a result of kept securely within the mobile supply and install manual alert rings In the first round, the system been granted for this project in an environmental conservation nourished areas not remaining and will not be transferred to on the immigration counter to guide will register all heads of ministries January. organisation. They said that the intact for a long period. any external systems without the the cleared passengers to quarantine. and departments as “Super consent of the mobile app user. Users” (proposed secretaries, If one has crossed paths with meet.gov.lk video additional secretaries, and heads of an infected individual, one has conferencing departments). They are supposed the option to self-register with With the entire working to provide the list of all possible the national disease surveillance population, except for few essential users within 24 hours by e-mail to system. services, restricted to their places as the admin. Once the requests are Contact Tracing that’s built on a result of strict physical distancing received, the admin will add the top of the DHIS2 solution is able enforced by the Government, the users to the system. to visually depict the graph of need for reliable, secure, and fast ICTA/LGII maintains a help people who they have associated communication has risen as never desk for the users. There will be a PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA with during an investigation by an before. document of detailed guidelines for AND KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM authorised contact tracer from the In this unprecedented situation, all levels of users in Sinhala, Tamil, Ministry of Health. ICTA has introduced https://meet. and English. the sunday morning 35 Sunday, April 26, 2020 FOCUS

BY SARAH HANNAN Rohana, commenting on how the law would be enforced after Monday, informed: The decision to relax quarantine “People should observe social distancing, be curfew imposed in 21 districts last it during curfew or after the curfew is lifted. week, except for high-risk zones We have deployed officers to monitor this, identified in certain districts, seems and the same will go to public and private to have presented new challenges transport vehicles. Anyone disregarding to the Police, tri forces, PHIs (public these instruction will be arrested and will health inspectors), and health not be granted bail.” authorities. DIG Rohana too reiterated that people should strictly follow the health guidelines Throughout last week, the citizens of and once work commences, the workplaces these 21 districts had to adjust to the new should instruct their employees to follow health guidelines issued to be followed good hygiene habits and adhere to the safety when using public transport and then ease precautions that have been practised thus into the “new normal” amidst Covid-19 far. This will allow to prevent the virus of starting to spread in community clusters. spreading. The first challenge they faced was getting to work as there were insufficient transportation facilities made available. Although the Ministry of Health had issued clear guidelines for buses and trains to follow in transporting passengers, given the scarcity of transport vehicles, people soon started to pack into buses as usual. The regulation for physical distancing was RELAXING CURFEW AND MAINTAINING DISCIPLINE quickly forgotten and even the bus drivers and conductors were not in a position to control the crowd that was getting into the buses. Some of the distressed passengers took to social media to post the way they were provided transport, and the Police had Looking ahead, we need a better had to intervene by stopping the buses to strategy for controlling transmission advice that one bus should only take up to of the virus after the lockdown 25 passengers at a time. Passengers too were Battle against is lifted. This needs to combine not happy that they were removed from the much more testing than now, with only bus that was available to them. stepped up social distancing, public education, and hygiene measures IHP Executive Director Dr. Ravi Rannan-Eliya virus rages on Director General Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Anil Jasinghe too resonated Irresponsible behaviour jeopardises health and safety of hundreds with DIG Rohana’s statement. Commenting on the situation anticipated With the number of cases being reported curfew will be lifted tomorrow (27) at 5 will be lifted. Areas identified as isolated for Monday after curfew is lifted for all increasing in cluster areas, it seems that a.m. With that, the extended curfew that zones will remain as is. The Police also districts, Dr. Jasinghe noted: “Government people are not adhering to the health was in place in the Colombo, Gampaha, stated that entry and exit from the Colombo, and private institutions were clearly guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health. Kalutara, and Puttalam Districts along with Gampaha, Kalutara, and Puttalam Districts instructed on how they should commence Minister of Health and Indigenous police areas of Alawatugoda in the Kandy will be prohibited. their work once the curfew is lifted. For Medical Services Pavithra Wanniarachchi District, Warakapola in the Kegalle District, The Police Media Division revealed instance, offices located in the Colombo Government and private institutions meanwhile pointed out that observing the and Akkaraipattu in the Ampara District too that when the curfew if lifted on Monday District should only bring in employees were clearly instructed on how they origins of the community cluster infection (27), all vehicles and persons using public residing within the district for now. We are should commence their work once the pattern, it was evident that people were not transport will be monitored for their taking these steps to ensure the safety of curfew is lifted. For instance, offices following the health guidelines issued to eligibility to exit or enter these districts once everyone.” located in the Colombo District should be followed during the quarantine curfew work commences. Dr. Jasinghe also noted that the public only bring in employees residing period. “We have already setup barriers at entry should adhere to the guidelines issued by within the district for now “We kindly request the citizens of this and exit points on the main roads. With health authorities when using transport DGHS Dr. Anil Jasinghe country to take these health guidelines work commencing last week for some services as well as accessing services from to heart. If you do not take necessary private and government institutions, other retail stores, banks, markets, etc. Vendors “If the Government wants us to follow precautions, you are not only jeopardising than the essential services, there was an too have been issued instructions on how guidelines, then they should make more your health, but also the health of the people increase in the traffic flow to the Colombo to engage in trade, ensuring the health buses available. We are heading to work that closely move with you. District. We have instructed our officers to and safety of their customers as well as after an entire month. We do not have “If you lack discipline, all these days of check whether they are permitted to enter themselves. enough buses to get to work if we are to curfew and the mechanism that has been Colombo,” the Police Media Division First workplace in isolation follow the health guidelines,” a passenger introduced to eliminate the spread of Covid- informed. lamented. Another passenger returning 19 will be in vein,” Wanniarachchi said, People should observe social Accordingly, companies that have over Meanwhile on Thursday (23) and Friday home from work, who was asked to get off specifically referring to the community distancing, be it during curfew or 50 employees will be allowed to enter and (24), a total of 65 personnel from the Sri from the bus because it was crowded, said: cluster that was detected in Srimath after the curfew is lifted. We have exit the Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, and Lanka Navy Welisara Camp tested positive “If we do not go in this bus, we will have Bandaranayake Mawatha, Colombo 12, deployed officers to monitor this, Puttalam Districts if their companies have for Covid-19. One of the Navy personnel to wait for about an hour or two for the which has accounted for 87 Covid-19 and the same will go to public and requested permission from the relevant law had fallen ill after he went home on leave next bus. What if that bus too is crowded? patients as of yesterday (25). private transport vehicles. Anyone enforcement authorities. Companies with and was admitted to the Polonnaruwa If the Government cannot make necessary Ensuring health and safety disregarding these instruction will be less than 50 employees will have to issue District General Hospital. The PCR test arrangements for people to go to work after arrested and will not be granted bail a letter attested by the area police to any confirmed that this Navy personnel had the curfew is lifted, then they might as well Sri Lanka Police yesterday announced DIG Ajith Rohana employee who is to report to work. contracted the virus. impose the curfew throughout.” that the currently imposed islandwide Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Ajith Contd. on page 11

AUTHORITIES STRESS SOCIAL DISTANCING EVEN WITHOUT CURFEW Being safe rather than sorry BY AGRA RANASINGHE the same rules of social distancing when common is to maintain social distancing, curfew eventually lifted in the Western irrespective of whether we are under curfew Social or physical distancing is considered Province as people have been doing in other or not. All the basic precautions should be the most effective way of limiting the areas of the country. followed as was done before. spread of Covid-19 as it may be transmitted The tri-forces have been supporting the “Curfew is lifted only to fulfil our basic through droplets which are released when Police and health sector in containing the essential needs and to stop economic someone coughs and/or sneezes while spread of Covid-19 and are doing a good job degradation – not to go on pilgrimages.” within six feet of another person. in finding coronavirus-infected patients and He also said that social distancing is not As per the definition given by the US getting them to quarantine centres, he shared. the only essential measure to control the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention Army Spokesperson Brigadier Chandana virus and that there are many other things (CDC), social distancing involves remaining Wickramasinghe told The Sunday Morning people should be mindful of. out of congregate settings, avoiding mass that people should be responsible if they “All the measures should be combined to gatherings, and maintaining distance want to enjoy their freedom. get an effective result. As an example, we whenever possible to limit the spread of any “People should be self-disciplined. Some should sanitise well although we are under virus. problems have arisen over the past few days curfew. All the precautions should be taken, Social distancing has no locational due to a lack of social distancing. Therefore, as we have been doing so far. constraints such as quarantining or being in as the Police, Government, and media “It is better if a healthy young member of People failing to maintain physical distancing in buses after curfew was lifted in most parts of the isolation, but is rather a behavioural practice island last week platforms have announced, people should the family can go out to fulfil the essential to lower the risk of being infected. make sure they maintain social distancing needs without old, sick, pregnant, and Therefore, to maintain social distancing, point out that curfew affects the livelihoods Rambukwella said that social distancing has and be self-disciplined. If not, curfew will unhealthy members being allowed to go the Government declared an islandwide of the people, especially daily wage earners been well maintained to date. be imposed again.” out. It is also advised for only one member curfew on 20 March, except for those in who suffer with no income whatsoever “In some places, discipline is at a higher The Government Medical Officers’ of the family to go out and when they come the essential services. However, since during curfew. level. What I noticed in the last two weeks Association (GMOA) was the main back, they should know how to sanitise then, more than 36,000 people have been At the time of writing, the Government was that people are very much accustomed lobbying force for the imposition of curfew themselves before entering the house arrested for curfew violations. Furthermore, was set to relax curfew in the Western to the requirement. Once the curfew is in mid-March to stop the spread of the virus. again,” he said. in areas where curfew was lifted even Province tomorrow (27) as it is Sri Lanka’s lifted, people will practice (it) to some We contacted GMOA Secretary Dr. Haritha According to the health authorities, for short periods, most people failed to hub of economic activity, but revised their extent and it will be improved. But I don’t Aluthge to assess the view of the association Sri Lanka has still not gone to the fourth maintain social distancing. This problem decision last evening to extend the curfew know whether this will be fully practiced or on plans to lift the curfew in the highly stage, which is called community spread. was magnified last week, following the till 5 a.m. on 4 May. This comes after over be 100% in order. But I’m sure people are populated Western Province soon. They have warned that it will be extremely relaxation of curfew in most parts of the 100 Covid-19 cases were reported last week very much maintaining it.” “We used many measures to maintain difficult to control the spread of the virus island apart from the highly populated with even a large number of Navy personnel social distancing and one of the effective if Sri Lanka reaches the fourth stage. Western Province, where social media posts being infected with the virus. Self-discipline paramount modes was imposing curfew. Now, people Therefore, the Government would lift showed people failing to maintain physical When contacted for comment on the The Police acts as the main enforcer of should understand that curfew won’t be curfew for the people to engage in their distancing in buses and shops, leading relaxation of curfew and whether the social distancing guidelines. lifted so they can enjoy themselves by day-to-day work and for the economy to to further criticism of the Government’s Government is concerned about a collapse Speaking to The Sunday Morning, gathering with others, going on trips, and function, but maintaining social distancing decision to lift curfew. of social distancing measures, Government Western Province Senior DIG Deshabandu so on. is important for the safety of the entire However, those in favour of its relaxation Spokesperson Minister Keheliya Tennakoon said that people should follow “The main responsibility we all have in population. 6 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, April 26, 2020

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA With the political Opposition accusing the Government of printing money It’s a matter of making the choice between continuing with government to the tune of more than Rs. 200 services or changing the economy billion, The Sunday Morning looked in the long run. They have chosen at whether the Government’s move, to prioritise the immediate living if true, is justifiable in the context of situation in preference to long-term a coronavirus-hit Sri Lanka and what economic stability in the country. So it impacts it may have on our already is a choice they have made failing economy. Former CBSL Deputy Governor W.A. Wijewardena Earlier this week, former Parliamentarian Patali Champika Ranawaka charged that the Government had printed money between 14 March and 14 April. “This Government had printed Rs. This Government had printed Rs. 200 billion from 14 March to 14 April. 200 billion from 14 March to 14 However, they have only allocated Rs. April. However, they have only 20 billion for the issuance of Rs. 5,000 allocated Rs. 20 billion for the vouchers to low-income families,” the issuance of Rs. 5,000 vouchers to former Parliamentarian claimed. low-income families Ministry of Finance and Treasury Former Parliamentarian Secretary S.R. Attygalle confirmed to Patali Champika Ranawaka The Sunday Morning that money printing had been carried out and the monies were used for essential expenditures. needs and situation of a country. “Yes, money printing was carried out “In these kinds of situations, usually – about Rs. 170 billion was printed. It MONEY PRINTING the Government made the mistake of countries adopt monetary and fiscal was used for various expenses such as offering a generous tax concession to the policies which are aimed at meeting the paying the salaries of government sector people in order win the election. Even crisis situation. employees,” he said. at that time, people like us warned the “One way of keeping the interest rates He said that monies would have also Government about the massive revenue down is printing money so as to inject been used in fighting Covid-19. loss. So now, they don’t have money, but money into the economy, increasing its “Money is in the economy, so of they have to spend money, and so they supply thereby making credit cheaper course it would have been used towards got the Central Bank to print money for to sustain the aggregate demand; this the Covid-19 effort,” he said, noting FAULTY the Government. is done by many countries all over the that even the US had printed money “Given the situation, yes, there have world. Maybe Sri Lanka is also doing equivalent to 10% of their Gross no other option. Otherwise, we will have that. Some countries have done it Domestic Product (GDP). to shut down the Government, similar to excessively until interest rates go down Senior economist and former Deputy what happened in the US a few years ago. to zero, but I don’t think Sri Lanka has Governor of the Central Bank of Sri “That’s the choice the Government come to that level,” he said. Lanka (CBSL) W.A. Wijewardena said made, between whether to shut down the Prof. Abeyratne went on to say that that the Government had been compelled Government or print money and fight money printing needs to be done in a to print money due to “faulty tax corona.” manner that ensures minimum damage to reforms” introduced at the beginning of He went on to say that there would be the economy. the year. negative impacts on the economy in the “Money printing has to be done “What we see is that the Government long run. according to the requirement of the doesn’t have revenue because of the “The rupee will depreciate as a result economy. So, if there is a shortage of faulty income tax reforms it introduced TAXREFORMS BLAMED of this. You can’t stop that. Inflation liquidity, money printing is one way of at the time it came into power by giving will also go up. There are a lot of meeting that liquidity shortage. But if it a generous tax concession to income tax Simplifying it further, Wijewardena implications. It’s like holding a tiger by is done excessively, there are going to be payers and VAT (value added tax) payers. took the example of former Ugandan its tail. It’s a very dangerous situation the issues. One very common issue is feeding “We had warned, even at that time, warlord Idi Amin, who wanted to pay Central Bank is in now,” Wijewardena into inflation, but this also depends on that the Government would lose about Yes, money printing was carried out salaries to his soldiers. Amin, every said. the time period. If it is a time period with Rs. 500-600 billion in revenue in – about Rs. 170 billion was printed. morning, would order the Governor of low interest, then money printing may not 2020. As a result, there are not getting It was used for various expenses such the Reserve Bank of Uganda to deliver Need to ensure minimum feed inflation that much,” he said. revenue and there’s a big gap, which is as paying the salaries of government a truckload of Ugandan shillings to the damage to economy He said that printing money was now being funded by the Central Bank sector employees. Money is in the warlord’s palace. As such, the Governor University of Colombo Economics justifiable in Sri Lanka’s situation, as the investing in Government Treasury bills,” economy, so of course it would have would have to open the vault of the Prof. Sirimal Abeyratne too cited many economy was already weakened over Wijewardena said. been used towards the Covid-19 effort Ugandan Reserve Bank and send the reasons for printing money based on the years of poor economic policies. Ministry of Finance and Treasury Devil and the deep Secretary money to the palace. “The basic problem is that unlike many S.R. Attygalle “The same thing is happening in other countries, our policy buffer is very blue sea the Sri Lankan Central Bank. When it weak to face this kind of situation; that He went on to explain that the money actually buys a Treasury bill from the The basic problem is that unlike has been the situation over a long period printing this time around was done not Bank. Likewise, this happens on a daily Government, what it does is it opens the many other countries, our policy of time. This has weakened the economy, for the sole purpose of getting the CBSL basis now.” vault of the Central Bank and gives it to buffer is very weak to face this kind of and so we are in a very vulnerable to invest in government securities, but He continued: “It’s a matter of making the Treasury,” he said. situation; that has been the situation situation compared to other countries. rather to fuel reserves of the CBSL. the choice between continuing with Wijewardena noted that the current over a long period of time. This has “In such a situation, we can expect “For example, the latest issue of government services or changing the pandemic situation would, to some weakened the economy, and so we worse policies than money printing – for Treasury bills on Wednesday (22) was economy in the long run. They have extent, justify the Government printing as are in a very vulnerable situation instance, a complete ban of imports and offered for some Rs. 40 billion, but chosen to prioritise the immediate living otherwise, the Government would have compared to other countries various new taxes to increase government people in the market had bought only situation in preference to long-term had to shut down, akin to what happened University of Colombo Economics revenue to take care of the coronavirus Rs. 32 billion, so the balance Rs. 8 economic stability in the country. So, it is in the US in the recent past. Prof. Sirimal Abeyratne expenditure.” billion had to be invested by the Central a choice they have made.” “This situation is very tricky. As I said,

Religious leaders have called on the Government to RELIGIOUS LEADERS SPEAK UP place priority on containing and eradicating the Covid- 19 outbreak over holding parliamentary elections. Prioritise Covid-19 over elections The Catholic Church said that or October 2020 and the existing elections are not the main concern Parliament be reconvened. In a in the face of the Covid-19 letter addressed to the President, the pandemic that has encompassed heads of the NCCSL had stressed the entire world and is now that a constitutional crisis cannot wreaking havoc on Sri Lanka. be afforded at this juncture. Earlier this month, “We welcome the decisions taken Archbishop of Colombo His by the Election Commission twice Eminence Malcolm Cardinal to postpone the election due to the Ranjith, addressing the event threat of Covid-19 virus spreading commemorating the anniversary I don’t think this is an increasing during electioneering Coronavirus is wreaking havoc of the Easter Sunday attacks on appropriate time to hold activity. We are also happy that the in the country…as soon as Thursday (16), said the Covid-19 elections…If there has been Election Commission is committed to the coronavirus conditions situation in Sri Lanka is still not a prolonged period of time review of the situation in consultation allow, elections must be held under control. without any reports of new with health authorities and may further so that a new parliament and “I don’t think this is an Covid-19 cases, then we can postpone the election (sic). government can take over appropriate time to hold elections. say that things are better and “It is important to bear in mind Ven. Narampanawe Ananda As of this morning, there were 238 the situation is under control that the country needs an election Thera of the Asgiriya Chapter Covid-19-infected persons and His Eminence that is free and fair. This requires Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith there are thousands more under a level playing field for all parties The Ven. Thera said that it did quarantine in detention centres wellbeing of the people of the the health and security of the and their candidates to campaign not matter who won the election, across the country. It is clear that being reported must cease before country takes prominence over people are at risk,” he said. and have equitable access to the as long as an election was held as we have not been able to contain things could be considered as elections. However, he noted that the media. This is not possible when soon as health services declared the situation,” the Cardinal said. under control. ACJU Media Secretary Shiekh improvement of conditions and there is a curfew or a lockdown,” possible. He further said that new cases “If there has been a prolonged Fazil Farook told The Sunday approval of health authorities the letter reads. “Who wins the election period of time without any Morning that the human lives and could allow to proceed with Ven. Narampanawe Ananda is irrelevant at this point. reports of new Covid-19 cases, their wellbeing supersede all. holding the election. Thera of the Asgiriya Chapter, This country needs a stable then we can say that things are “Our stand is that human lives, “If the health sector gives the commenting on the matter, said that government and political The health and security of the better and the situation is under health, and wellbeing are the most green light that there is no danger Sri Lanka needs political stability stability. What we are saying is people must be given utmost control. Therefore, I don’t think important things and they have at a certain given time period, at this crucial period of time. that as soon as the coronavirus priority and we as a religious we should have elections at this to be given utmost priority and of course no one will have any “Coronavirus is wreaking conditions allow, elections must body do not accept to have an point in time,” he said, adding that utmost preference, and all others objections to that,” Shiekh Farook havoc in the country. On top of be held so that a new parliament election while the health and elections are not and should not be could follow after that. So, the added. that, there is no Parliament or and government can take over,” security of the people are at risk the priority right now. health and security of the people The National Christian Council proper Government and it seems he said, adding that elections ACJU Media Secretary Meanwhile, the All Ceylon must be given utmost priority of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) was of the there might be a constitutional could not wait till the virus was Shiekh Fazil Farook Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) and we as a religious body do not view that the parliamentary election crisis. Political stability is key,” completely eradicated. too asserted that the health and accept having an election while should be postponed to September the Thera emphasised. – Skandha Gunasekara the sunday morning 37 Sunday, April 26, 2020 hot seat COVID-19 AND GENERAL ELECTIONS DIVERSE POLITICAL VIEWS

BY AGRA RANASINGHE The Election Commission (EC) last week decided to schedule the general election for 20 June. However, this is later than the three-month period the country is permitted to function without a Parliament as per the Constitution. The Sunday Morning spoke to several former parliamentarians from across the political divide about the implications of this decision and what the next steps should be. The following are excerpts of the interviews: Existing laws We assure adequate, Sunil Handunnetti unconditional of the Janatha no need of Vimukthi Peramuna Recall P’ment (JVP) challenged support in the Government to P’ment reconvene Parliament and prove and prove that even one Opposition MP Udaya Gammanpila Parliament would block the Opposition a Udaya Gammanpila Government from notice, that Parliament will of Pivithuru Hela automatically be reconvened. approving funds to Urumaya (PHU) said that The second reference is Harin Fernando fight the coronavirus hindrance other countries held Article 70 (7), which states if Harin Fernando of the Well, that can be avoided and support the parliamentary sessions to the President is satisfied that Samagi Jana Balawegaya by the Government if they act economy. Sunil Handunnetti approve new laws to fight an emergency has risen, the (SJB) said that his party correctly, but delaying it would Covid-19, but the existing President may reconvene the would unconditionally not help because we call this Do you think the says that the President funds for its decisions. laws in Sri Lanka are dissolved Parliament. It is true support measures a “marayage mathiwaranaya” prevailing situation can recall the Parliament If there is even one MP adequate for this purpose that there is an emergency and legislation by the (an election of death). So, the could be normalised by under an emergency who doesn’t support the and therefore, there is situation at the moment, but Government to fight priority should be the people of 20 June? situation. The President Government in such a there’s no reason to reconvene the country. Absolutely not, because is not reconvening crisis, the best thing the no need to reconvene the Parliament if there’s nothing Covid-19 if Parliament Parliament. was recalled. no scientific reasons Parliament, not because Government should do is to get done by the Parliament. Many say that the President have been presented for of a Constitution-based reconvene Parliament and Can this Parliament invent a Do you think the prevailing should make decisions that. Although it has problem, but because prove that to the public. Do you think the prevailing new medicine for the disease? situation could be normalised according to the Constitution. been stated that holding politically he dislikes that situation could be normalised What are they going to do by by 20 June? Do you agree? the election is a political option. Will the battle against by 20 June? reconvening the Parliament? Absolutely not. This is not Absolutely. There should not need, no scientific reason the coronavirus be That, nobody knows. Covid- the time to opt for an election. be any reason to delay this at is there for it. Covid-19 Do you think the strengthened or 19 will decide the election date. If not, will there be a Therefore, I don’t think Sri all. is a pandemic. No one President will act weakened by the recall The Election Commission is constitutional crisis? Lanka will be normal when has said that it will be according to the of Parliament? legally bound to fix the date, There is no constitutional the whole world is facing this The Constitution states prevented by 20 June. So Constitution? Some argue asking as the date was postponed crisis because the Constitution – even countries like Japan that Parliament can be then how do we hold an I don’t think he will whether Parliament by them after it was fixed by is clear. That’s what we have and Singapore who are highly summoned in an emergency. election? take a decision according should be reconvened the President. The Election repeated when the TNA disciplined. If we have 5% of Is the President reluctant to it, because if he to give medicines. What Commission has announced (Tamil National Alliance) and patients for the 7,000 tests we to do so because he does A country can function does so, this won’t be a the Cabinet does now that the election will be held on UNP (United National Party) have done, we may have many not want to engage with without a Parliament problem. I don’t think he is approve funds for the 2 May, but nobody knows what complained that Parliament more patients if we do 50,000 Parliament? only for three months. will work according to the Government, and then will happen. should be reconvened, if the tests. Therefore, we should be In an emergency, Parliament Accordingly, Parliament Constitution. they become engaged in Election Commission said to very careful in dealing with can be summoned by should be convened this matter. Therefore, A country can function hold the election later than three this and the priority should not the President as per the before 2 June. The Constitution the Parliament is able without a Parliament only for months since the dissolution. be the election,it should be the Constitution. So, there’s no Will Parliament be states that Parliament to give support to the three months. Accordingly, But they have no legal basis for country. reason why Parliament should reconvened before that? can be summoned in Government to amend Parliament should be their demand. Therefore, there’s not be summoned. No, I don’t think so anemergency. Is the laws and so on. The convened before 2 June. Will no constitutional crisis. A country can function because the President President reluctant to power is within the Parliament reconvene before without a Parliament only for If Parliament is recalled, the stated that the old do so because he does Parliament. If there’s this? Many say that the President three months. Accordingly, Government says that they Parliament will not be not want to engage with someone arguing that the Article 70 (5) of our should make decisions Parliament should be will not be able to approve reconvened. Parliament? country can be controlled Constitution says a according to the Constitution. reconvened before 2 June. Do funds for the President’s That’s the nature of a without the Parliament, proclamation dissolving Do you agree? you think Parliament will be decisions. What do you Won’t that cause a dictator. some others can argue Parliament shall fix a date Of course he should act reconvened before that? think? constitutional crisis? that the country can be or dates for the election of according to the Constitution, I think the only possible Any law can be amended No, I don’t think that If Parliament is recalled, controlled without the members of Parliament, and he has given a pledge thing at the moment is to recall once Parliament is recalled. there’s a constitutional the Government judiciary. There was a and shall summon the new that not only will he uphold Parliament. The President All we need is enough support crisis because the says that they would time where one person Parliament to meet on a date the Constitution, he will also has to use his power and in Parliament for the laws. Constitution was made not be able to get controlled the country no later than three months after protect it. He has done it so recall Parliament and pass the based on continuity. The fundsapproved to as Hitler did. The same the date of such proclamation. far; he has not violated the laws. We all have said that Will the battle against the President dissolved the combat Covid-19. What thing can be done, but On 19 March, the Election Constitution and he will not do we will give the Government coronavirus be hindered by Parliament under the do you think? the question is how Commission decided to that. unconditional support in this the recall of the Parliament? regulation of reconvening Well, then this should long it will continue. postpone the election date and regard. Absolutely not. We know it within three months. If be the perfect time for Any president can be now they have fixed 20 June as The Constitution states that that we can do tests even in he can’t do it, he should them to prove that the either a democrat or use the date of election. Parliament can be summoned If not, will there be a Parliament. This effort won’t find an answer for it. Opposition does not let democratic people to So, at a glance, fixing the in an emergency. Does constitutional crisis? be hindered by the Parliament. Even the Constitution the Government obtain become a dictator. date to 20 June is in violation the President not want to of Article 70 (5). The Election reconvene Parliament because Commission has been he does not want to engage empowered by the Constitution with Parliament? to hold the election. The As I said before, there is no Parliament should be Many say that the we only had 42 ministers but Election Commission requirement or necessity of We passed reconvened before 2 June. President should make still we didn’t postpone the postponed the date because reconvening the Parliament. In decisions according to Government. We even got the the election cannot be held several countries in the world, Do you think Parliament the Constitution. Do you 19th Amendment passed. Even due to the atmosphere caused parliamentary sessions have will be recalled before agree? the Opposition supported it by the Covid-19 disease. If been held during this time then? The President pledged in because all the proposals the election is to be held on because they found that the 19A with I can’t give an exact answer front of the Ruwanwelisaya we made at the time were 20 June, Parliament cannot be existing laws are not sufficient for that.But the President to protect the Constitution approved by all sides. recalled within two months to meet the challenge of seems to have ruled out and it means that he respects of dissolution. There’s a Covid-19. But Sri Lanka has reconvening the Parliament the Constitution and works Will the battle against doctrine called the doctrine of faced so many challenges in only 42 MPs and will proceed to breach according to it. After that, he the coronavirus be impossibility of performance. the recent past and therefore, the Constitution. cannot go ahead and violate strengthened or weakened It states that the law is not for we have all necessary laws as the Constitution now. by the recalling of people to perform something I mentioned earlier. From the Palitha Range Bandara Will that create a Parliament? impossible. Quarantine and Prevention of Palitha Range Bandara Do you think the constitutional crisis? If Parliament is recalled, All have given their support There are two references Disease Ordinance enacted in of the United National prevailing situation could In the current situation the Government is saying to fight this pandemic. I don’t to reconvene the Parliament 1890 to the National Disaster Party (UNP) said be normalised by 20 June? how can we take further that they would not be think anyone is working to in our Constitution. Firstly, Management Act enacted that in 2015, his An election can be held, but decisions without reconvening able to approve funds for spread the virus or to prevent Article 155 (4) states that if the in 2005; during a period of Government had only it will be an annihilation of Parliament? Nothing can be the President’s decisions. it President declares a state of more than 100 years, we have 42 ministers but still the population. It means that done withoutreconvening What do you think? from being eradicated. The emergency, that proclamation formulated all the necessary we are putting the people at Parliament. Even the curfew That may be true if he is priority should be the people becomes a notice to reconvene laws, and the officials who are didn’t postpone the great risk. that has been imposed is not taking nonessential decisions. and the country. It’s absolutely the dissolved Parliament. It is engaged in combatting Covid- Government, and even A country can function legal. Of course, we are asking Last time as well, the same vital that the Government automatic because once the 19 have come to the conclusion successfully passed the without a Parliament only for everyone to obey the curfew, thing happened. On 8 January works according to the President declares a state of that the existing laws are 19th Amendment. three months. Accordingly, but it was imposed illegally. 2015 when we held power, Constitution. emergency without further sufficient to meet the challenge. 8 the sunday morning EDITORIAL/ECONOMY Sunday, April 26, 2020

PHOTO LALITH PERERA First things first Even the sanest of people do the craziest things when frustration gets the better of them. Donald Trump, by far, is certainly not the most rational person even at the best of times if his record is anything to go by, but what he said last Friday (24) at a White House press briefing was COMPANIES GRAPPLING FOR SURVIVAL simply unbelievable even by Trump standards. This showed the level Falling rupee set to of frustration and desperation for a cure endured by the most powerful man on Earth. hurt economy The raging Covid-19 pandemic has so far shown no signs of easing As economic experts predict, because even as the most severely affected countries begin flattening the Sri Lankan rupee depreciation the curve, new hotspots are emerging elsewhere, continuing to raise the will have a great negative impact numbers of those infected globally. Long path on the economy, especially at a As of Friday, the coronavirus had infected nearly 900,000 in the US time where the world economy alone and killed more than 50,000. These numbers must have weighed is at the brink of a recession. heavily on Trump’s mind when he suggested that “putting sunlight and However, the Government heat inside the body, using disinfectants to cleanse internal organs”, etc., was confident that it would might help fight the virus even as the medical professionals present at be able to stabilise the rupee the White House briefing cringed in horror. despite it recording an all-time This is what Covid-19 can do to the mindset of a leader of a country for economic low recently when the selling overwhelmed by the virus, and an example of what we here in Sri Lanka rate of the rupee slid to Rs. must not do in order to prevent such a calamity occurring in our own 200.46 against the US dollar neck of the woods. on 8 April, while the buying rate Sri Lanka is now on the verge of community-level spread if extreme was recorded as Rs. 193.95 per precautions are not taken to mitigate an outbreak. At the time of writing, dollar on the same day. Sri Lanka had recorded 452 cases, a sharp spike from 300 cases just five revival Contd. on page 9 days ago. The emerging pattern is consistent with what has been seen in other parts of the world and it seems that the critical period is only just z Lack of working capital affects pvt. sector businesses could run until that time beginning. Let’s look at the trend. without any financial support from It took 54 days for 100 patients to surface in Sri Lanka, then 19 days for the Government. the number to reach 200, and just eight days to reach 300. The climb from zUnemployment hits pvt. sector say TUs “If 100 businessmen apply for 300 to 400 took just four days. Given these figures, easing the restrictions moratorium, only five of them would in place at this particular period of time will most likely undo all the BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA be entitled for the grant, and even if good work done so far by the health and security authorities. It would be Garment industry hit hard by Covid-19 the Government said Rs. 25 million akin to running the marathon and giving up with the finish line in sight. After Sri Lanka relaxed the The garment industry is is a crucial industry for many of will be granted, the reality is only Rs. The rush to ease restrictions, it seems, is to create a sense of normalcy police curfew that prevailed for witnessing a collapse in demand Asia’s developing economies, with 1 million would be given,” he stressed. in the run-up to the postponed general election rescheduled for 20 June. It over a month, except for capital due to the economic fallout from World Trade Organisation (WTO) For businesses, as claimed by goes without saying that if this delicate situation is not managed with an Colombo and several other the coronavirus outbreak, putting data showing that Bangladesh and Waduge, the need of the hour is the abundance of caution, the intended normalcy could quickly turn out to be districts, last week, economic jobs across Asia at risk. Vietnam are amongst the world’s granting of immediate financial support a nightmare. Therefore, it is best that the views of medical professionals activities of those areas were China is known as the factory four largest exporters of clothing. as they couldn’t wait another month, as including the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) are recorded at a very slow pace as of the world, but when it comes Bangladesh now accounts for 6.7% many of them have to pay salaries of given precedence over that of politicians, at least in this one instance. people chose to grab essentials to clothes, Bangladesh, Indonesia, of market share, followed by Vietnam around 50 to 100 employees or more. While the GMOA has been consistently lamenting the underutilisation and stay at home. Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, with 5.7%. Cambodia and Sri Lanka “We have already paid salaries for of state health sector resources in fighting the spread of the virus, even as and Sri Lanka play a growing role. also rely on the industry for more two months but from next month late as last Friday, Government Medical Laboratory technologists alleged Grocery shops, supermarkets, As stated in international economic than 60% of their exports. onwards, we are in a real financial that the lab at the National Hospital in Colombo which was equipped to vegetable stores, pharmacies, and reports, garment manufacturing Contd. on page 9 difficulty,” Waduge stressed. conduct PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests had not been used at all. banks were seen to be busy engaging He also questioned the necessity of They even called for an investigation into this matter. The technologists in business while the majority of other providing financial support once the also alleged that eight other state sector labs which were equipped to non-essential shops such as hardware Auto industry faces uncertain future business has collapsed. conduct PCR tests were hardly used while PCR testing machines at the stores, electric suppliers, textile shops, Another badly affected industry, not just because of the virus but In the CBSL circular, it is stated that National Blood Centre and National AIDS Control office had not been restaurants, etc. remained closed due because of the economic crisis of the country, is the automotive industry, for the avoidance of doubt, import used at all. They added that these facilities could operate on a 24-hour to the lack of customers. as the Government implemented a blanket restriction on the importing facilities shall not be permitted under basis but were only being used for a few hours a day and some not at all. On the other hand, a section of of all sorts of automotives to Sri Lanka as a measure to control the the re-finance facility for imports other Given the urgent need for heightened testing in light of the increasing businessmen are struggling to open rupee depreciation. than pharmaceutical drugs, medical number of patients, the revelations made by the Government Medical their businesses due to a lack of Contd. on page 9 equipment, food, fertiliser, and essential Laboratory technologists merit urgent attention. The top priority at this working capital. raw materials, and machinery and juncture should be the maximum utilisation of available state resources Speaking to The Sunday Morning, In March, the Central Bank of resulting from Covid-19. equipment. It is further stated that the including equipment, personnel, and finances to ensure that the evolving Sri Lanka Trade Development Council Sri Lanka (CBSL) decided to set Also included are small and financial institutions shall complete situation is kept within manageable limits. As shown by South Korea, (SLTDC) Chairman Roshana Waduge up a re-financing facility in order to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) processing such requests within 45 Germany, and Taiwan, the three most successful countries in tackling the stressed that only 30% of the total implement the decisions taken by the engaged in business sectors such as days from the date of receipt of the virus, the best way forward is testing, testing, and more testing as it is the trade activities outside Colombo had Cabinet of Ministers to introduce a manufacturing, services, agriculture request. Until the processing of requests only way that virus carriers could be identified, isolated, and treated early. operated during the past week, which wide range of fiscal and financial (including processing), construction, is concluded, the recovery of loans The Government must also focus on ensuring that the promised relief, is the first week after the curfew was concessions for Covid-19-hit business value addition, and trading including from the respective applicants shall especially the payment of Rs. 5,000 a month to those without an income, lifted. activities including self-employment authorised domestic pharmaceutical be suspended. actually reaches those in need devoid of party affiliations. Daily protests “The problem is without opening businesses and self-employed suppliers with turnovers below Rs. Highlighting the practical issues by those who have not received this benefit are a health risk that could Colombo, the businesses cannot individuals. 1 billion. faced by the traders, Waduge noted propel them from the frying pan into the fire. be fully revived as the majority is Among these concessions are a debt Furthermore, self-employment that the circular and the entitlement That said, it is only once the Government is convinced that the spread connected with the capital city,” he moratorium (capital and interest) and businesses and self-employed for the facility had been interpreted of the virus is well and truly under control that it should venture on said, adding that one major issue faced a working capital loan at an interest individuals who have lost their jobs by different banks in different ways. to the next step of easing restrictions and getting the stalled economy by almost all businessmen was that rate of 4% p.a. for eligible customers. or income due to the outbreak of Therefore, he urged the Government off the ground. Premature action in this regard will most certainly be they had serious financial difficulty. According to the circular issued, Covid-19 and foreign currency earners to declare all the businesses which are counter-productive and further delay the recovery process. Elections “A majority of these businessmen these eligible customers include (individuals and corporates) who have entitled and not entitled to the facility. can come thereafter. have spent their savings to pay the tourism; direct and indirect export- to repay loans in foreign currency and If the moratorium is not functioning It is a fact that Covid-19 has helped instil some form of discipline in salaries of employees working under related businesses including apparel, whose incomes/businesses have been properly, the country would have to how people conduct themselves in public. Be it using sanitary products them, and they will not be able to do IT, tea, spices, and plantation; and adversely affected due to the outbreak face a serious unemployment issue to keep one’s hands clean or taking one’s place in a queue or the manner so without the Government’s support related logistic suppliers that have of Covid-19 are also eligible for the after a few months, Waduge explained. in which seating takes place in a public bus or train, every encouragement in the coming months,” Waduge been adversely affected by work concessions. Highlighting the import and export should be given by the State to inculcate these practices among people explained. disruption and overseas lockdowns However, the SLTDC raised concerns sector, the SLTDC Chairman noted using the media and even bring in laws if necessary to ensure that these over the slow process followed by that around 40% of an employment practices continue in the post-Covid era in order to ensure a more healthy Essential goods shortage looms the banks when implementing the cut could be expected in the import and orderly society. moratorium introduced by the CBSL. and export industry, as it was the worst When it finally comes around to starting up the idle economy, the Food importers are also in dire straits with certain restrictions imposed According to Waduge, a number affected industry by the coronavirus. fundamental principles that Covid-19 has brought to bear on each on imported goods. of council members including small, country needs to be kept in mind. While globalisation is well and good, They claimed that they had been totally ignored and as a result, the medium, and large-scale businessmen Crisis after crisis the coronavirus has shown the merits of being self-sufficient at least in second-level retailers were also affected. In addition, the importers will who applied for the moratorium were While the small, medium, and large- the basic needs – primarily food security. Countries around the globe stop importing this week due to government restrictions and therefore, informed by the respective banks scale businesses and the entire private are recalibrating their economies based on this fundamental principle, they predict a shortage of several products in the local markets. that the decision as to whether their sector are facing serious financial so that they would have to depend less on others in a crisis situation Colombo Importers’ Association member Alshafa Yoosuf told The businesses would (or not) be entitled difficulty in restarting their businesses such as the current pandemic. Keeping this in mind, it is imperative Sunday Morning that the importers were running at a loss, and that for the moratorium and the working and companies and paying the salaries that the Government identifies the sectors that need to be strengthened, with the government restrictions, they were required to keep a 300% capital will be made by the end of the of their employees, experts warned that most notably the agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors and offer bank guarantee to release a container. first week of June. However, Waduge the Government would have to face a incentives and concessions for entrepreneurs to take the plunge. Contd. on page 9 opined that it is really doubtful that the serious unemployment crisis together With many global companies reviewing their industrial ties with China, with an economic crisis. emerging countries such as Sri Lanka stand a chance to benefit from The International Labour such an eventuality, provided the matter is handled in a professional Organisation (ILO) last month warned manner. For instance, almost all Japanese companies have announced that almost 25 million jobs will be lost their intention to pull out production from China. In a dog-eat-dog world, if the virus isn’t controlled. Sri Lanka should not shy away from wooing the Japanese to relocate International economic experts their factories to Sri Lanka. Therefore, the post-pandemic world need claimed the rising unemployment will not be doom and gloom as it is rife with new opportunities, especially in intensify pressure on governments and the global supply chain. Sri Lanka should not hesitate to step up to the central banks to speed up the delivery big league as it certainly has the credentials in place with an intelligent of programmes to either compensate workforce, ground infrastructure, logistics, etc. workers who are made redundant or What is needed are competent people in the right places and not persuade employers to hoard staff politicians who for 70-odd years have proven beyond doubt that they until the virus fades. Failure would are incapable of delivering what is required to push Sri Lanka to the risk an even deeper recession or a next level. Opportunity does not knock twice. However, for any of this weak recovery that would require to materialise, Sri Lanka must first banish Covid-19 from its shores. policymakers to consider more stimuli If elections are an impediment to this process, let it be pushed to the on top of what has already been backseat. In the end, people will recognise and reward a job well done deployed. Speaking to The Sunday as opposed to a government holding their lives to ransom. Morning, Inter Company Employees’ Union (ICEU) President Wasantha Samarasinghe stressed that the worst No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. affected from the coronavirus were Fax - 011 2 673 441 the private company employees, General - 011 5 200 900 and the country would have to face Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 a severe unemployment issue if it Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 did not execute financial support in E-mail - [email protected] a proper way. Contd. on page 9 the sunday morning 39 Sunday, April 26, 2020 POLITICS/ECONOMY

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA IMPENDING CONSTITUTIONAL CRISIS AND PARLIAMENT Following the change of the parliamentary election date by the Election Commission (EC) due to the Covid-19 outbreak, legal luminaries have warned of an impending constitutional To reconvene or not? crisis if Parliament is not in z Debate amongst political parties continue z Constitution is priority says legal experts place by 2 June. “I don’t see a constitutional crisis On 2 March, President Gotabaya occurring just yet. Article 70 (7) of Rajapaksa through an Extraordinary the Constitution clearly gives an Gazette notification dissolved answer to the problem. The President Parliament prematurely – in a period has time to reconvene the old of four-and-a-half years – despite the Parliament,” he said. full term of the Parliament going on He also pointed out that the till August this year. Sinhala version of the Constitution The President is empowered to – which supersedes the other do so through Article 70 (1) of the language versions – clarifies that Constitution which states: the “emergency” that is referred to “The President may by in Article 70 (7) was not limited to proclamation, summon, prorogue, artificially created emergencies such and dissolve Parliament: Provided as a terrorist attack, but had a broader that the President shall not dissolve definition. Parliament until the expiration of a Subsequently, politicians and the Supreme Court to declare that the and that Parliament continues election on 20 June would be a “The Sinhala version of the period of not less than four years and pundits alike began making claims, dissolution is invalid,” he added. until the emergency is over or the violation of the Constitution. Constitution explains this in a broader six months from the date appointed ranging from the nullification Article 70 (5) (a) of the election is held. So, it’s very clear “Holding an election on 20 sense, so an emergency is not just for its first meeting, unless Parliament violation of the Constitution to Constitution mandates that the Constitution provides a way out June would be a violation of the something like a terrorist attack but requests the President to do so by a the requirement of reconvening Parliament must be reconvened in a in this situation,” he said referring to Constitution. By 2 June, a Parliament could be an emergency that had resolution passed by not less than Parliament. period of no more than three months. Article 70 (7) of the Constitution. must be functioning. From 2 June arisen naturally or organically; it two-thirds of the whole number Speaking to The Sunday Morning, It states: Article 70 (7) of the Constitution onwards, the country cannot proceed is not restricted only to any other of members (including those not Tamil National Alliance (TNA) “A proclamation dissolving states: without a Parliament,” he said. defence-related emergency,” Perera present), voting in its favour.” member and former Parliamentarian Parliament shall fix a date or dates “If at any time after the dissolution However, Warnasuriya disagreed said. As such, the date of election was M.A. Sumanthiran, said that the for the election of members of of Parliament the President is with former Parliamentarian Seemingly wanting to play it set for 25 April. change of the poll date to after 2 June Parliament, and shall summon the satisfied that an emergency has Sumanthiran’s remarks that the safe, the United National Party However, following the Covid- effectively made the dissolution of new Parliament to meet on a date not arisen of such a nature that an earlier dissolution of Parliament had become (UNP) opined that a Supreme Court 19 outbreak, the EC on 19 March Parliament “invalid”. later than three months after the date meeting of Parliament is necessary, invalid due to the change in date of determination was the need of the postponed the date of the election “Now that the date is fixed beyond of such proclamation.” he may by proclamation summon elections beyond 2 June. day. indefinitely. 2 June, I think the legal position Meanwhile, constitutional lawyer the Parliament which has been He said that the change in date Former UNP Parliamentarian Various remarks were made by would be that the dissolution of Chrishmal Warnasuriya established dissolved to meet on a date not less beyond 2 June alone wasn’t enough Ravi Karunanayake told The Sunday government ministers on the need to Parliament made on 2 March is the fact that all three arms of the than three days from the date of such to nullify the proclamation and went Morning that the best course of action hold timely elections, which finally now invalid because the power to Government were subservient to the proclamation, and such Parliament on to say that President Rajapaksa for the Government was to request culminated with a statement made by dissolve Parliament ahead of time is Constitution. shall stand dissolved upon the still had time to act according to the the opinion of the Supreme Court. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa conditional on the fact that the new “We are a democracy governed by termination of the emergency or the Constitution. “If the current coronavirus situation on 18 April asserting that it was Parliament must meet within three the rule of law so all three organs of conclusion of the general election, “I don’t agree that by the mere continues, then elections cannot be mandatory, and the EC fixed a date months. If that becomes possible, Government are subservient or must whichever is earlier.” fact of the election being postponed held on 20 June. There is no point in for the polls. then the dissolution is also invalid,” serve the law that is superior, and that When queried as to what to 20 June, the proclamation has convening Parliament because they’ll “Such mandatory legal he said, adding that the TNA did is called the principle of separation would happen if, hypothetically, been declared null and void. I don’t think it is done with a disguised requirements cannot be ignored on not think that Covid-19 conditions of power, which our Constitution the President didn’t consider say that. But there is still time for notion; that we are trying to take the basis of speculation as to what made it alright for an election to be has been established on, where the the coronavirus outbreak an the President to act in terms of the undue advantage of the situation. So, may or may not happen weeks and held, as many aspects of the elections executive arm (the President and the “emergency”, Warnasuriya pointed Constitution,” Warnasuriya said. the best option is to go to courts to see months into the future. The Election including the campaigning period Cabinet and the officers that come out that the President too must He then rejected claims by how to proceed,” he said. Commission should first fulfil its and the polls itself would expose the under it) the legislative arm (the be governed by the Constitution Government Quarters that the The Samagi Jana Balawegaya duties under Section 24 (3) and public to spread of the coronavirus. Parliament), and the judicial arm are and reiterated the fact that the doctrine of necessity could play a (SJB) said that they too believed that thereafter take up for discussion any He went on to say that as such, the all governed by the rule of law of the Constitution, on repeated occasions, role allowing the President to carry reconvening the former Parliament outstanding issues. On 2 March, the former Parliament was currently fully Constitution,” he said. establishes that the country must on without a Parliament as the was the best option. President dissolved Parliament and functional. He then pointed out the importance be governed with a Parliament and Constitution provided a solution. “I think the President should find fixed 25 April for the poll and 14 “Nobody has to convene placed by the Constitution on a that a three-month period was the “The doctrine of necessity states ways to reconvene the Parliament. May for the first meeting of the new Parliament. The legal position is functioning Parliament. longest that Parliament couldn’t be that the Constitution could be That is the most sensible option to Parliament. that the dissolution is invalid and the “Whether Parliament is dissolved functioning. violated due to the necessity of avoid a constitutional crisis,” SJB “Ten days later, when the first Parliament is now in full force,” he early, in four-and-a-half years, or is “His Excellency the President must extreme circumstances. But that National Campaign Manager and coronavirus patient was found, the said. dissolved after running its full term also be governed by the Constitution. doctrine of necessity doesn’t come Head of Media and former MP Harin President did not have the power to When queried on how Parliament of five years, the Constitution sets the The Constitution says you have to into play here. The doctrine of Fernando told The Sunday Morning. postpone the poll. Under Section 24 must proceed if there was contention upper limit that upon the dissolution convene Parliament, regardless of necessity would only be relevant Government Spokesperson and (3) of the Parliamentary Elections that the dissolution is invalid, of Parliament, you must summon a whatever your opinions maybe, in if there was no way out from the former State Minister of Investment Act No. 1 of 1981, when the poll Sumanthiran said that a court opinion new Parliament in three months,” he three months. The only option out problem through the Constitution. Promotions Keheliya Rambukwella cannot be held on the day fixed by the would be sought. said. that the Constitution provides is There are alternative solutions to this said that it was the right of any citizen President, the Election Commission “If they don’t recognise it (that the He then pointed out that the when you consider that there is an problem already available,” he said. to seek the opinion of the Supreme is mandatorily required to fix another dissolution is invalid) then we may Constitution provides for a situation emergency where you cannot hold Furthermore, fundamental rights Court if the Constitution was being day for the poll,” Prime Minister have to get an order from court like where a new Parliament could not an election. It may be an earthquake, lawyer Barana Gayan Perera, violated. Rajapaksa said in a statement issued. we did in November 2018 when the be convened in the mandatory three- it may be a tsunami, or it may be said that he doesn’t believe that a “The Election Commission has Two days later on 20 April, EC Parliament was dissolved. There too month limit. the coronavirus. Then you ask the constitutional crisis has formed yet. set a new poll date. If any citizen Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya we had to get court to declare that “The Constitution provides after old Parliament to sit – why? Once He too referred to Article 70 (7) or organisation finds that it is announced that the date of the that dissolution was void. Similarly, you dissolve the Parliament for an again, because the Constitution says and affirmed that the Constitution violating the Constitution, any parliamentary elections had if others don’t recognise that the election, in case an emergency occurs you have to run the country with provides for the President to one of them has the right to seek been changed to 20 June, which dissolution is invalid in this instance, and if the President is of the view that a Parliament. You have to have a reconvene the old Parliament if it is advice and the determination of the coincidentally is also President then there is the option available to it is an emergency situation, then he Parliament,” he stressed. impossible to elect and convene a Supreme Court,” the Government Rajapaksa’s 70th birthday. anybody to invoke the jurisdiction of can summon the previous Parliament, He emphasised that holding the Parliament by 2 June. Spokesperson said. Contd. from page 8

Long path... Former CBSL Deputy Governor Dr. W.A. Garment... Looming shortage... However, Fernando predicted that the As explained by Samarasinghe, it is predicted Wijewardena predicted that the rupee would According to the Export Development “We are losing millions and the second and prices of the vehicles in the country would that over one million Sri Lankans will lose their further depreciate even though the CBSL Board (EDB), Sri Lanka’s apparel and textile third-level retailers are losing their income,” increase. Nevertheless, the impact of the jobs and many companies have already begun intervened and brought it back to Rs. 195 manufacturing industry is the most significant he stressed. rupee depreciation would affect only the to cut down the number of their additional from Rs. 200, which was the lowest recorded and dynamic contributor to Sri Lanka’s economy. When asked why they couldn’t purchase vehicles that would be imported after the staffers and the salaries of many employees. value ever in the country’s history. Being entirely privately owned and operated, from local farmers, Yoosuf stressed that the restriction is relaxed. “The Government should protect the private “Unfortunately, the Central Bank is not the apparel categories range from sportswear, local supply was not adequate to meet the Meanwhile, the Government last week sector as without them, the economy cannot in a position to hold it for long because lingerie, and loungewear to bridal wear, demand and the prices were high. Therefore, stressed that it would consider relaxing perform in the long run and on top of that, they don’t have enough foreign exchange workwear, swimwear, and childrenswear. These many people were not capable of purchasing the import restriction imposed on motor another major crisis would be the social reserves to back it. Eventually, the rupee products are manufactured and exported with the at such rates. vehicles and luxury items after considering issue which would arise with the increase in will continue to fall and along with that, flexibility of catering to specific seasons of many The ban imposed on importing nonessential the economic situation of the country within unemployment,” he stressed. all the goods that we import from the rest countries around the world, and the industry is food items would be further continued despite the next few months. “Therefore, it is high time the Government of the world will see an increase in prices Sri Lanka’s primary foreign exchange earner. the relaxing of strict measures countrywide, Minister of Mahaweli, Agriculture, protected its private sector and provided financial which cannot be avoided,” he told The In 2018, the industry’s aggregate export except for four high-risk districts in view of Irrigation, and Rural Development Chamal facilities for them to continue their businesses Sunday Morning. revenue amounted to $ 4,960 million, just shy reviving the economic activities, Minister Rajapaksa told The Sunday Morning that and protect employment opportunities,” On the one hand, the good side of the of the high-water mark of $ 5 billion, and the Chamal Rajapaksa said. the Government would go ahead with the Samarasinghe stressed. rupee depreciation, as explained by him, US and the UK have been the highest buyers of He told The Sunday Morning the ban on the already declared three-month hold on the Accordingly, the ICEU proposed that the was the re-emergence of local products and Sri Lankan apparel. Exports to the US continue importation of certain food items would be importation of motor vehicles and luxury Government should introduce a relief package the opening of more space for those locally to surpass $ 1 billion, and the EU contracts are continued, so as to promote the local agriculture items, but if the country’s economy returns to revive the private sector. manufactured products. worth over $ 1.5 billion, according to EDB sector which saw a sudden boost during the to normal within that period, the import The Government should release around “When it comes to things that are produced statistics. quarantine period. restrictions would be relaxed. 3-4% of its GDP to ensure the GDP rates are in Sri Lanka, the situation is a welcome sign With the coronavirus pandemic, garment However, after evaluating the local production Urgent measures introduced by the CBSL positive. The GDP of Sri Lanka is around Rs. 40 because our people may be able to actually manufacturers in Sri Lanka have been hit hard of certain food items, if there was any shortage last month for banks to follow with immediate billion per day and 1% of GDP equals Rs. 145 supply them with the local products,” he said. as the demand collapsed as retailers were forced for the local consumption, the Government effect to ease the pressure on the exchange billion. Unless the Government takes necessary On the other hand, he claimed the situation to shut their doors after governments around would consider importing the respective items rate and prevent financial market panic precautions to balance the economy, the GDP is not favourable for importers. the world imposed lockdowns. to fill the shortage, Rajapaksa explained. due to the Covid-19 pandemic included rate is expected to go down to -3% by the end “The prices of goods like medicine and Highlighting the local apparel sector, ICEU He further noted that if the Government the provisions of the Monetary Law Act of this year, he explained. other essentials imported from other countries President Wasantha Samarasinghe noted that relaxed the importation restrictions, the local No. 58 of 1949, the Banking Act No. 30 of He also proposed that the Government should will skyrocket,” he predicted. it is predicted that over 200,000 out of 380,000 farmers would be demotivated and they would 1988, and the Foreign Exchange Act No. issue a disaster bond worth Rs. 500 billion to Meanwhile, when The Sunday Morning employees in the apparel sector will lose their move away from cultivation, thinking that 12 of 2017. The provisions state that with spend on reviving the economy. contacted Co-cabinet Spokesman Dr. jobs by the end of this year. He said half of they would not receive a proper price for their immediate effect, the following must be Bandula Gunawardana, he said the CBSL the factories remained closed as they couldn’t products. done: Suspend facilitating the importation Falling rupee... had managed the falling of the rupee and it begin operations. of all types of motor vehicles, other than According to the exchange rates issued by had already reversed it within a few days. Meanwhile, SLTDC Chairman Roshana Auto industry... those excluded specifically under Banking the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the He noted that the Government had taken Waduge stressed that all small, medium, and When contacted by The Sunday Morning, Act Directions No. 01 of 2020, under Letters value has appreciated against the US dollar in a number of measures including the halting large-scale garment businesses have been Ceylon Motor Traders’ Association (CMTA) of Credit; suspend facilitating importation of the last week and as at Friday (24), the selling of imports which are not essential, such as affected alike and many large-scale factories Chairman Sheran Fernando stressed that almost non-essential goods specified in Banking Act rate of the US dollar was at Rs. 192.00. motor vehicles, and had also opened a new were forced to shut down as they expected that all the industry players were affected by the Directions No. 01 of 2020, under Letters of The selling rate was at Rs. 191.72 on Monday account for investors. they will not be getting orders for at least the prevailing situation. Credit, Documents Against Acceptance, and (20) and it suddenly increased to Rs. 194.84 “In addition, local productions including next six months. However, automotive companies were Advance Payment; and suspend the purchase on Tuesday (21). However, from Wednesday agricultural production have been increased “This is a major collapse of the local economy optimistic about government support for the of Sri Lanka International Sovereign Bonds (22) to Friday (24), the value appreciated with to prevent them from being imported from and its effects cannot even be predicted,” industry once the economy returns back to by licensed banks in Sri Lanka during the the CBSL controlling the value at Rs. 191.00. other countries,” he added. Waduge stressed. normal. next three months. 10 the sunday morning VIEWS Sunday, April 26, 2020

RELAXING CURFEW A RISK OR

Plotting and planning NECESSITY? Ervin Alphonso – inbound tour consultant The Government should think twice before lifting the curfew because there are a noticeably higher number of patients being diagnosed each day. Furthermore, people are adhering to the guidelines that the Government has set, but there are unfortunately a handful of people who do not, and those are the very people who cause the virus to spread. If they (Government) BY DIANDRA ANNE are to lift the curfew, perhaps there should be a few plans set in order to prevent people The ongoing battle to associating other people from different areas. defeat Covid-19 has brought numerous struggles upon countries worldwide. In order to contain the spread of the virus and flatten the curve in Sri Lanka, the Government imposed islandwide curfew relatively early on. Recently, following the Government’s decision to relax the curfew on an ad hoc basis, including in certain areas in high-risk districts, there was a sudden spike in the number of confirmed cases found within Difficulty in a day. This decision, according to the Government, was made heeding the in order to restore the country to “normalcy”; even then, guidelines people would be instructed to Yasmin de Silva – singer follow the guidelines set by It is better not to lift the curfew in certain the Government and health high-risk areas as it could cause the curve to authorities. spike up again. I do understand the difficulty However, as the country looks in imposing and keeping a curfew when to take measures for the safety of the general public do not seem to adhere both its citizenry and economy, it A system is required to those rules. Also, I think it is going to is fitting to take both sides of the Dilshan Niranjan – be difficult for the general public to adhere story into account. With all this software engineer to the guidelines when the curfew is lifted. in mind, The Sunday Morning The educated will tend to listen, but the PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE Lifting/relaxing the curfew in the areas/ uneducated…not so much. asked the public their thoughts districts that were not affected by the virus on the matter. is actually good because the economy, education, and other social activities are all highly affected by the curfew. Areas with because it is depressing to watch no risk can be allowed to get back to work how some countries – far more and even studies. But the authorities must developed than ours – are dealing confirm that these areas are risk-free. The with horrific difficulties, such as districts with high risk should be locked not being able to dispose of the down. Lifting curfew in these areas for a mounting number of dead bodies while and then re-imposing it is bad, in or the impossibility of curbing the my belief. I say this because while some spread of the virus. do practise social distancing, many do Leaders have been forced to not. If they had a proper delivery system watch the chaos with absolutely High risks for all essential food items to every single no way of stopping it. Will our Manel Fernandez – teacher household across the island (mainly the areas little nation be able to cope with that are in lockdown), things would be much such issues? Even if it may not I feel the Government is taking the wrong better. come to that, is the risk still worth decision at this point because we keep Furthermore, the Government should make The risks it? We stayed indoors for so long, finding more and more patients. What the sure low-income earners are given some kind not without consequences. We Government should do is only relax the of relief, not just once but until the situation No time to we take miss our loved ones, we cancelled curfew in areas which are not highly affected is over. plans, some of us may not have and keep the curfew in the high-risk areas. It discipline Shenelle Perera - student jobs to go back to, and the should be done this way, especially to ease of Sri Lanka Law College economy has come to a standstill. the burden on the people who depend on Audrey Sansoni – entrepreneur in We need to realise that we did daily wages and need to make ends meet. hospitality industry Should the prevailing curfew in all this for a reason – because They do not have monthly salaries like some Sri Lanka be lifted? My answer what we are facing is no laughing of us, so it is fair that we relax the curfew for The Government is faced with a is no. Sri Lanka should not take matter. We have sacrificed so those kinds of people in non-high-risk zones. quandary; it is a decision between two the risk of letting this situation much already, and if we risk it all vital predicaments the whole world is get more out of hand than it by forcing things to go back to faced with today – the economy of the already is. We have done an normal before we are 100% or at country and the serious health situation amazing job with the available least 80% certain the risk is worth in protecting the spread of Covid-19. resources, and we have managed it, everything we have sacrificed so Therefore, the Government had to take a to stay afloat despite everything. far would have been for nothing. decision at some stage, which involved a I avoid watching news at times fair amount of risk, and their decision to lift the curfew was the right move. Now begins the challenging period for the entire nation. The Government has finding more and more positive to work hard and implement strategies Understanding cases day by day. I do however to bring the country back to normalcy think that people can be capable whilst concentrating fully on preventing the gravity of of following the Government’s the spread of this deadly virus. At the guidelines during the time the Is returning back same time, all citizens of the country need the situation curfew is relaxed, as people have to conduct themselves in a responsible shown that they understand the to normalcy a manner. Priyan Karunarathne – gravity of the situation and have In achieving this normalcy comes the operation manager in been following instructions, possibility? question whether the citizens are disciplined like maintaining the one metre Worsening the Renuka Tennakoon – lecturer at Sri enough to stick by the guidelines set by the I don’t think it is a great idea distance and such. Government while the curfew is lifted. Let’s to relax the curfew as we keep situation Lanka Foundation Institute be very honest, it is definitely not so and far M. Fahim – sales manager at The Sri Lankan Government is one of from the standard. the few governments that have protected We do see discipline in the more affluent mobile company the people so diligently. I feel that people areas amongst the upper classes of society, In my opinion, it is unfair to mistake the Government as a barrier and that but what happens with the majority of the put the entirety of the Colombo In my opinion, with the current situation, Was it a it is not a good idea to relax the curfew. The is not fair. Moreover, we do need to start to people? If you would look at the lower District under curfew; it should get out of our houses and slowly get back middle and lower classes of Sri Lanka, have just been imposed in the reason is that nowadays, there are people necessity in the who carry coronavirus with no symptoms. to normalcy. People need to earn, we have they have no access to social media, their affected areas. It is high time the to start our work. On the other hand, while I education levels are too low to understand curfew is lifted in the Colombo Hence, there is a possibility that people first place? with the disease will walk around freely and am glad they are relaxing the curfew, I also the severity of the pandemic, and their only District because it really puts see that the general public’s behaviour is concern is to find daily labour, earn wages, Shantha Wijeweera – people at an inconvenience. If spread it to even more people. Furthermore, the Government and health authorities very unsatisfactory. I believe they will not and feed the family. Can we discipline management consultant the curfew continues, it might stick to the guidelines the Government has these communities of people within a result in people breaking the announced methods on how to act for people There were cases of Covid- who go out when the curfew is relaxed, but set during the curfew. For example, people short time frame to follow the required rules and coming out onto the are anticipating it in order to roam around. health standards? Do they understand 19 patients being reported in streets. Furthermore, Colombo is the question is how many people would the Colombo 12 area, and that actually follow those guidelines when there However, speaking as a sociologist, I believe social distancing? Let’s hope the masses Sri Lanka’s financial hub and it long-term curfew is not a healthy option as it will abide by the guidelines set by the was the reason they imposed the should not be under curfew. are so many who have been arrested by the curfew in the whole of Colombo. Police from violating the curfew. puts pressure on people. Government. the sunday morning 117 Sunday, April 26, 2020 OPINION/FOCUS

BY DR. JEEVIKA WEERAHEWA AND sized enterprises (SMEs) will play DR. DEVESH ROY an important role. Here again, there is a need The impact of the Covid-19 and opportunity for ease of pandemic on the economy doing business. The three-tiered of Sri Lanka, like anywhere registration process involving else in the world, will be the Export Development Board complex to predict in terms (EDB), Internal Revenue of magnitude, but some Department (IRD), and Sri Lanka directions in which it may go Customs (SLC) has been onerous are predictable. and introduces fixed costs, thereby disadvantaging SMEs. Increasing Being a trade-dependent island the ease of doing business that nation, Sri Lanka will likely suffer determines time taken and costs from the expected recession in to trade needs to be taken up on a Dr. Devesh Roy addition to disruptions in global priority basis. and domestic supply chains. There should be a drive to ensure Notwithstanding these effects, Rationalise public the availability of raw materials our research shows that the overall expenditure in agriculture (seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, impacts on agri-food supply value chains packaging materials, etc.) to chains in Sri Lanka may not be the With Covid-19, the thin line commence local production and slayer one would expect it to be, POST-COVID-19 ERA between crisis response and processing. barring prolonged disruptions and structural change often gets Covid-19 also offers a great adverse policy stances in other blurred. Sri Lanka has gainfully opportunity to foster some countries. been the exception in South long-overdue structural changes Invariably, in every crisis nests Asia in terms of openness and in agriculture, like relaxing an opportunity. As the rebuilding Leveraging being less interventionist in food restrictions on cultivation of crops and revival of the economy will markets. other than paddy in lowlands. be the result, this article proposes Towards this, state agencies From the value chain perspective, three pivotal interventions to could now soft pedal intervention focal areas should be investment capitalise off the agri-food chains during the crisis, involving on cold storage facilities and to shepherd the revival of the Sri procurement, as soon as possible. revitalising the extension service. Lankan economy post Covid-19, In the rebuilding period, all To make the markets i.e. after the storm. governments would face resource competitive, a market information constraints. The pre-existing free system based on government To confront the new reality, distribution of fertilisers might agencies should be widely Sri Lanka should proactively agri-food need to be reweighed in favour of available. Covid-19 also brought and preemptively try to the erstwhile cash grant scheme. forth many elements of direct strengthen trade links. It On the domestic market side, sales to consumers. As recovery should strive for an extensive there is a dawn of a rationale takes place, there is a basis to margin, i.e. new products, for targeting food subsidies. keep the momentum, and one such new markets, new varieties, A generalised apportionment way is to incentivise firms which and prices sector for revival through maximum retail prices adopt online marketing tools in Target increased of rice, dhal, and tinned fish is food distribution. export earnings not the most cost-effective way of social protection while Sri A generalised apportionment In the 2008 food price crisis, of economy Lanka recaptures the high-income through maximum retail Cambodia was a sole torch bearer growth trajectory after the post- prices of rice, dhal, and of trade openness (not impeding 2009 anatomic break. tinned fish is not the most the export of rice) amid the reign Taking this crisis as an With raw material taxed, the While targeting, revisions in cost-effective way of social of soaring prices. It experienced opportunity, Sri Lanka should effective protection to domestic the list of beneficiaries for the protection while Sri Lanka very significant export earnings be redoubling efforts to increase producers reduces. One of the Samurdhi programme and tapering recaptures the high-income as a result. The nature of crisis exports sans Covid-19. In the principal reasons Bangladesh off distribution of subsidised growth trajectory after the is different now, but human and height of the Covid-19 emergency, now has the most mechanised seeds and planting material for post-2009 anatomic break policy tendencies would likely the continuance of agri-supply agriculture sector in South home-gardening projects need remain the same, i.e. to look chains, including exports, Asia is its liberal policies on consideration. Covid-19 also brings to inward. With import substitution engenders hopes that agriculture agriculture machinery. Indeed, In the nutrition programmes, the forefront the importance in vogue, it is important to could lead from the front in Sri Lanka too has policies there is a recognised need for of attributes like food safety, appeal to a powerful idea in trade revival. The following steps are giving exemptions from better targeting to create the biosecurity, and animal health economics – the Lerner symmetry suggested towards this end: customs duty, import cess, fiscal space; this might be the in agricultural value chains. theorem, i.e. an import tax is an and VAT (value added tax) on moment to target only the neediest Hence, on the path to recovery, yy Remove restrictions on raw export tax. selected agricultural equipment pregnant women. There should the Government should provide material and input imports. and machinery, however the be a move to identify the new incentives to connect farmers eligibility and verification Dr. Jeevika Weerahewa Covid-19-induced vulnerable to markets and engage in value process is cumbersome and (urban poor, recipients of school addition and marketing while highly time consuming, thereby new reality, Sri Lanka should meal programme, people suffering creating a reward system for limiting the uptake. The proactively and pre-emptively from NCDs [noncommunicable healthy agricultural practices. recovery drive after Covid-19 try to strengthen trade links. It diseases], factory workers, (Dr. Devesh Roy is attached offers a great opportunity for should strive for an extensive communities in remote locations) to the International Food improving ease of business margin, i.e. new products, new and make them eligible to receive Policy Research Institute that would make availing these markets, new varieties, and relief packages. [IFPRI] and his areas of concessions easier. prices. History is proof that a Recalibrate domestic food expertise include international Introduce conditions on considerable expansion in trade availability and realise gains trade, environment, firm farm available fiscal space, provide tax and increased resilience have of innovations in supply chain linkages, and food safety, and concessions or compensation with been achieved through extensive compression Dr. Jeevika Weerahewa is a predetermined tenure, and target margin adjustments, like in China, It is possible that imports the Professor of Agricultural a temporary stimulus for export South Korea, or Chile, or even might be constrained for some Economics attached to the industries. when coping with sanctions time. As a protective measure, Department of Agricultural Post Covid-19, international like in the case of Myanmar. Sri Lanka should use the crisis- Economics and Business trade is likely to be different In accessing expansion on the driven opportunity to mitigate Management of the Faculty of with inherent tendencies towards extensive margin, new exporters the constraints on domestic Agriculture at the University of erecting barriers. To confront the comprising small and medium- availability wherever applicable. Peradeniya, Sri Lanka)

Contd. from page 5 monitoring and assisting in maintain the Sri Lanka failed to contain the virus Wanninayaka revealed that when the be tested for Covid-19, and we need peace in the Suduwellla area were residing to foreign arrivals and their immediate drivers and conductors had kindly requested much more testing of patients in OPDs in two quarters and therefore, the PCR contacts. Instead, it has allowed the virus the passengers to adhere to the guidelines, (outpatient department). Battle against... test was first conducted on these Navy to jump to others, resulting in chains of irate passengers had verbally assaulted In addition, quarantine and self-isolation personnel. transmission continuing into late April. This them. In this backdrop, the Ministry on procedures need to be tightened to prevent The Welisara Navy Camp was serious failure has been camouflaged by Thursday (23) had requested the Police and cross-infection and include testing to informed about this and PCR tests were Cluster transmission anticipated labelling the subsequent cases as imported tri-forces to look at deploying a security identify any infected cases before release. then conducted to the test the rest of the Institute for Health Policy (IHP) case clusters, and saying that we do not have person for each bus from next week As a remedial measure, all family members personnel. Most of these Navy personnel Executive Director and Fellow Dr. Ravi community transmission. This is nothing onwards in order to manage the crowds. of those who arrived in late March and were involved in providing security for the Rannan-Eliya said that it should not surprise more than semantics. He further noted that many of the people underwent home quarantine should be Suduwella area in Ja-Ela after the village the health authorities when the community “Community transmission only are not even wearing masks nor following urgently tested with PCR or antibody as was declared an isolated area earlier that cluster transmission was reported. means that we don’t know the chain of the health and safety guidelines and appropriate. week. They had also assisted in transporting “Although Sri Lanka has attempted transmission from an imported case; it therefore suggested that it should be closely “Looking ahead, we need a better the residents of Suduwella to quarantine in maintaining minimal community does not mean that local transmission has monitored. strategy for controlling transmission of centres. transmission over the past weeks, we not occurred between people living in “We are providing a service here and the virus after the lockdown is lifted. This Out of the 65 Navy personnel tested are increasingly dropping behind in our the community and outside a quarantine cannot be enforcing regulations on people needs to combine much more testing than positive, five had travelled to their homes response. This is making it more difficult camp. Local transmission is what the other as we need to ensure the safety of our now, with stepped up social distancing, as they were permitted to take leave. These to lift the lockdowns; it will continue to countries in the group have prevented and drivers and conductors. For that, we seek public education, and hygiene measures. personnel too were located and subjected frustrate the Government’s economic and what we need to focus on,” Dr. Rannan- the assistance of our Police and tri-forces,” It would be foolhardy and irrational to to PCR tests. The entire camp is now political goals of restarting the economy and Eliya elaborated. Wanninayake said. assume that no virus will be circulating in declared an isolated area, making it the holding elections, and it is putting to waste the community. At the very minimum, we first workplace to be placed on isolation. the enormous sacrifices the public has made Crowd control Goal to eliminate would need to have 28 days with zero new Meanwhile, the families of the Navy during the month of lockdown,” he noted. Ministry of Passenger Transport Dr. Rannan-Eliya, after analysing all cases, but the country will not tolerate this. personnel who went on leave to their homes To explain what is happening, Dr. Management, Power, and Energy Media these incidents, noted: “To get back on We can now see how many people just were also sent to quarantine centres. Rannan-Eliya divided the world into two Spokesperson W.M.D. Wanninayake said track with the goal of elimination and one or two hidden cases can infect in the “Some unrest was reported from the groups of countries: Countries where the that drives and conductors had reported the to ensure the country is safe to lift the space of a month under curfew. Imagine villages these Navy personnel had visited. goal is only to control the epidemic at a difficulty in crowd control once the curfew lockdown, we need to fully copy the what will happen during five weeks of an We can assure that all these Navy personnel manageable level (or “to flatten the curve”) was lifted. elimination strategies of Vietnam, Hong election campaign,” he emphasised. have been brought to the Welisara Navy and countries where the goal is to keep the “Last week, a very few buses were Kong, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, In conclusion, Dr. Rannan-Eliya stated Camp and their families have been placed epidemic crushed (or something as close to deployed to provide transport facilities for and others. Incidentally, this also implies that the curfew alone is not suffice to in quarantine and would be undergoing “elimination” as possible). Sri Lanka fits in persons who were to report to work. At going beyond WHO (World Health stop community transmission. Although PCR tests in the coming days. Therefore, the second group so far, but complacency is the start of the journey, there were police Organisation) recommendations which are the enforcement of the curfew could be we urge these people to not panic,” Lt. Gen. leading us to fall behind. or army personnel to monitor the amount not tailored for countries that are aiming at improved, it is not realistic to stop all Shavendra Silva confirmed. The first sign of this came in early April. of people getting into a bus. But then the elimination.” interactions during curfew, especially in The Navy personnel were from Lankapura After stopping foreign arrivals in March, drivers and conductors had to deal with He added that the Office of Medical poor areas where families cannot sustain in Polonnaruwa, Panduwasnuwara, Sri Lanka did not crush the second wave as the people getting into the bus from the Officers of Health needs to strengthen themselves for long periods. This suggests Rambewa in Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, rapidly as the others. Instead, the decline in in-between halts. When one person got off its testing guidelines to make testing that stronger social distancing and hygiene and Galle. Lt. Gen. Silva also elaborated new cases was less rapid, and then it was the bus, several people got in and there was mandatory for many patient groups where measures combined with much more that the Navy personnel involved in not sustained with numbers fluctuating from no police or army personnel to control that,” it is still discretionary. For example, all surveillance testing is needed to slow day to day, he explained. he stressed. ICU (Intensive Care Unit) patients must transmission, both during and curfew. 12 OPINION

enactments. Commissioner General of Labour Both the Shop and Office who, after due inquiry, has the (Employees) Act and the Wages power to prosecute. Boards Ordinance (which Thus, the only recourse available contain identical provisions) do to any employer to reduce an not provide for the reduction of employee’s salary, in these perilous remuneration, but instead provide times, would be with the consent for the “deduction” of remuneration of the employee. Hence, consent in certain circumstances. The would amount to a consensual employer is required to make such alternation of the contract of deduction in terms of the law or in employment. However, here too, the compliance with an order of court. employer is faced with restrictions. In addition, an employer is entitled In terms of the Wages Boards to make such deductions in case Ordinance, the Minister of Labour of authorised deductions with the has declared a number of wages consent of the employee. boards in respect of numerous trades As previously mentioned, which stipulate the minimum wage this particular section deals with that is payable in the relevant trade. “deductions” as opposed to The employer is not permitted, “reductions”. Therefore, the Shop even with consent from the and Office (Employees) Act and the employee, to reduce the salary of Wages Board Ordinance do not in such employee below the minimum any way provide for nor deal with wage stipulated by the relevant the reduction of remuneration. wages board. However, the Wages The EPF Act and the ETF Boards Ordinance restrictions may Act contain identical but rather not apply to executive staff and the ambiguous provisions relating senior management team as most of to the reduction of the earnings the wages board decisions are for of an employee. For the purpose supervisory level and below. of clarity, the relevant section is reproduced below: Is retrenchment “No employer shall, by reason permitted by law? of his liability to pay in respect of As previously stated, the Covid- any employee any contribution or 19 pandemic has caused business surcharge under this Act, reduce the activities of most organisations to come earnings of that employee or alter to a virtual halt. In this predicament, to the detriment of such employee many organisations are considering any benefit which the employee is downsizing its work force – in other entitled to under the provisions of words, retrenching employees. any written law or under the terms In Sri Lanka, there are two and conditions of his employment.” primary legislative enactments This section stipulates that that deal with retrenchment. One an employer is prohibited from is the Termination of Employment reducing the earning of an of Workmen (Special Provisions) employee if the intention is to Act (TEWA) and the other is the reduce the employer liability to Industrial Disputes Act – more make contributions or pay surcharge specifically, Part IV B. in respect of an employee. Thus, In order for the provisions of the EPF Act and the ETF Act only TEWA to be applicable, certain deal with the reduction of earning in criteria must be fulfilled. One is specified circumstances and do not that an employer has to, on average, deal with reduction in general terms. employ not less than 15 employees COVID-19 No legislation explicitly prohibits during a period of six months the employer from reducing prior to the month of termination. an employee’s earnings for This is slightly different to the reasons such as to avert financial Industrial Disputes Act. Part IV B disaster that will be sustained by of Industrial Disputes Act will be industries as a result of the adverse applicable to an employer that has repercussions caused by the Covid- employed no less than 15 workmen Pitfalls faced by 19 pandemic to the country and the on average for a working day in world. This does not however arm the month preceding the month the employer with the authority to in which notice was issued of the reduce an employee’s earnings or intention to effect retrenchment. It salary unilaterally. must be noted that the qualifying A contract of employment, like period under the TEWA is six employers and need any other contract/agreement months prior to termination while entered into between two parties, in terms of the Industrial Disputes confers rights and obligations Act the period is one month prior on both. Under a contract of to making an application to the employment, the foremost Commissioner of Labour. obligation of the employer is to The next criterion required to pay the employee remuneration be fulfilled in terms of the TEWA of the hour agreed upon while the foremost is that an employee must be in obligation of the employee is to employment for a period not less BY UDITHA EGALAHEWA PC AND AMARANATH FERNANDO (ATTORNEY-AT-LAW) Is the reduction of salaries children’s allowances. discharge the agreed services than 180 days within a continuous permitted by law? In the case of Coca Cola diligently and efficiently. In the period of 12 months. The other When the first patient was infected with a virus now known as Prior to delving into the question Beverages Ltd. vs. the event of either party failing to requirement is that termination Covid-19, in December 2019, no one envisaged that it would as to whether it is legally possible Commissioner General of Labour discharge a duty or an obligation should not have been effected by result in a pandemic of such great proportion. There have been to reduce salaries of employees, and others, an allowance of conferred in terms of the said way of retirement in accordance numerous pandemics in the history of human civilisation. In the it is necessary to examine the Rs. 8,500 was paid to the sixth contract, such defaulting party with the provisions of a collective 20th Century, we witnessed pandemics such as the Spanish flu, definition of “wages”, “salaries”, respondent. As the petitioner would be in breach of the contract. agreement that was in force at the Asian flu, and Hong Kong flu. The first pandemic faced in the 21st or “remuneration” given in several failed to include the allowance S.R. De Silva has stated that “in time of retirement or a contract Century was the A/H1N1, otherwise known as Swine flu. Some pieces of legislation in Sri Lanka. when calculating gratuity, the conceptual terms it can be said of employment which expressly of these pandemics have, up to now, claimed more victims, but These terms have been interpreted Commissioner General of Labour that when an employer breaches stipulates the age of retirement. none have had such an impact globally as Covid-19. in several legislative enactments instituted action. The position of a fundamental obligation of the Furthermore, the provisions of such as the Shop and Office the petitioner before the Court of contract of employment, the the TEWA are not applicable to As Covid-19 has infected more without any sustainable income. (Employees) Act, Employee Appeal was that the allowance employee is entitled to treat such a employees of the government, Local than two-and-a-half million people Employers are compelled to pay Provident Fund Act, Employee of Rs. 8,500 was a “perk” and breach as a constructive termination Government Service Commission, in more than 200 countries, it has their employees’ wages even Trust Fund Act, and Payment (of) therefore did not attract the by the employer, which puts an end local authority, co-operative society, caused the global economy to though they are unable to report to Gratuity Act. It must be noted provisions of the (Payment of) to the contract”. De Silva further or public corporations. It is noted come to a virtual standstill. work or participate constructively that in all these enactments, an Gratuity Act and the EPF Act. provides examples in order to that even though the provisions of Sri Lanka, being a participant in the daily operations. Employers employee’s wage or salary includes However, His Lordship was of the enunciate the above: the TEWA do not apply to those in international trade and tourism, are unable to obtain bank “cost of living allowances” and view that no evidence was placed “If an employer refuses to employed in public corporations, has been adversely affected. In financing to meet their basic costs. “special living allowances” and/or before court that the allowance was pay an employee his salary in such employees can find cover addition to the repercussions Shareholders are faced with an “other similar allowances”. in actual fact paid as a “perk”. His circumstances which make such under the Industrial Disputes Act. faced due to the impact of Covid- additional burden of being required Accordingly, employers are Lordship further distinguished this refusal illegal, the employee can It must also be noted that Part IV B 19 internationally, Sri Lanka’s to make further investments required to calculate contributions to case from the National Workers treat the employer's refusal as a of the Industrial Disputes Act does economy has to countenance a without any hope of any return be made to the Employee Provident Congress vs. Madihahewa for the constructive termination of the not apply to employees who are further blow due to the imposition in the foreseeable future. In the Fund (EPF), the Employee Trust reason that “price and price share contract or again, the employer covered under the TEWA. of an islandwide curfew to eyes of the shareholder, one viable Fund (ETF), payments as gratuity, supplement” and “attendance may seek to unilaterally vary the The TEWA forbids an employer minimise the spread of the virus. option will be to take the ultimate and also for the computation of incentive” paid in the Madihahewa contract on a fundamental matter, terminating a workman except with As result of the spread of decision – liquidation. This will compensation in terms of the case was a non-recurring allowance e.g. demote him. In such cases, the the prior written approval of the this virus globally and the have far-reaching consequences not Termination of Employment of unlike the allowance paid to the employee often purports to resign Commissioner General of Labour promulgation of curfew within the only on the economy of the country Workmen (Special Provisions) Act. sixth respondent in the Coca Cola from the service of the employer or with the prior consent in writing island, all trade and commerce has but also on the social fabric. Hence, allowances such as cost case. for the reason that the latter has of a workman. The said Act goes on stalled, dealing a severe blow to An alternative to liquidation is of living allowances, special living Hence, it must be deduced compelled him to do so. Such a to state that an employee is deemed businesses. Exporters had orders to take steps to reduce the ongoing allowances, and other similar that allowances which can be resignation is in law a constructive to be terminated if a workman is cancelled overnight, the tourism liability till the return of normalcy. allowances all come within the established to be “perks”, which termination by the employer and not provided employment by his industry has come to a grinding One option available is to reduce definition of “remuneration” or are not recurring and/or do not does not preclude the employee employer either temporarily or halt with no tourists visiting the ongoing costs, such as the cost “wage or salary” and must be fall within the definition of “cost from claiming relief before a permanently or in consequence of country, and the manufacturing of labour. Keeping this option in considered part and parcel of an of living allowance”, “special Labour Tribunal on the basis that closure of the employers’ trade, industry is unable to continue mind, there are many questions employee’s remuneration. living allowance”, or “other there has been a termination by industry, or business. operations. that loom in the minds of the Sri S.R. De Silva states that in special allowance” do not form the employer.” However, the exception is if the We have now come to realise the Lankan business community. relation to the Employment part of “wage” and “salary and Hence, if an employee’s salary termination is due to punishment stark reality – things are bound to Provident Fund Act, “non- remuneration” of an employee. (a fundamental element in the consequent to disciplinary action. get worse before they get better. The most pressing are: recurring cost of living gratuity Thus, it can be concluded, that it is contract) is unilaterally reduced by The employer is required to notify The question on everyone’s mind 1. Can an employer reduce the paid under certain collective well within the employer’s right to the employer, it will be considered such workmen in writing the is, when? With no vaccine or cure wages of its workman? agreements to which the cease making such payments at its as a fundamentals breach of the reasons for termination. in the foreseeable future and the 2. Can an employer take steps to Employers’ Federation of Ceylon discretion at times such as these. contract and thus illegal. The The Industrial Disputes Act number infected on the rise both reduce its workforce? or its members are parties, do not, We shall now deal with the employee will then be entitled to requires an employer to follow locally and globally, this is not a 3. Are our labour laws and is by practice as a result of certain reduction to salaries (which consider such an act as an act of the procedure set out in the question which can be answered the Commissioner General of understandings with unions, attract includes “cost of living allowance”, constructive termination and seek event of retrenchment of any with any certainty. Labour suitably empowered to provident fund contributions”. He “special living allowance”, or his remedy in the Labour Tribunal. workman to whom the provisions At present, the conundrum faced resolve issues that will arise as a further states that “total earnings” “other special allowance”) making An employee may also complain of of the Industrial Disputes by industries is to ensure survival result of Covid-19? do not include rent allowances and reference to several legislative non-payment of earned wages to the Act is applicable, unless such the sunday morning Sunday, April 26, 2020

retrenchment is in consequence of and the employer chooses to go Either way, an employer will be conciliation, the Commissioner an agreement between the employer ahead, this action would give rise to liable to pay wages until the date of (General of) Labour or the or the representative of the an industrial dispute. the decision of the Commissioner authorised officer is required to employer and the workman or the In the event an employer decides General of Labour. bring about a settlement within one Whither representative of the workman, or a to reduce wages without the consent If a workman is terminated month. However, if a settlement settlement or award under the Act. of the workman, this unlawful without the permission of the is not possible, such a dispute Hence, the termination of any act will be dealt with by the Commissioner General of Labour will be referred to arbitration employee for non-disciplinary Commissioner General of Labour in and an application is made in terms or to an industrial court by the globalisation? reasons contrary to the above would terms of the provisions of either the of Section 6 B, the Commissioner Commissioner General of Labour be illegal and unlawful. Shop and Office (Employees) Act General of Labour may either order or the Minister as the case may be. Even in the prevailing situation, or the Industrial Disputes Act. continued employment or if the In terms of the Industrial Disputes termination of a workman due to the The Shop and Office (Employees) termination is in consequence of (Hearing and Determination of effects of Covid-19 will have to be Act provides that the employer pay the closure by his employer of any Proceedings) (Special Provisions) in compliance with the provisions a workman remuneration directly, trade, industry, or business, the Act, an arbitration referred by the of the TEWA and/or the Industrial other than authorised deductions Commissioner General of Labour Minister or the Commissioner Disputes Act depending on its made with the consent of said may order the employer to pay General of Labour is required to applicability. Thus, as it stands workman. The Act further specifies the workman compensation as an be concluded within three months today, following the procedure set that the employer shall fix a period alternative to the reinstatement and of such reference. However, out in the TEWA or the Industrial in respect of which remuneration is gratuity or if any other benefits there is no such time limit placed Disputes Act will be a long-drawn payable (which cannot exceed one payable as reinstatement will not on industrial courts in both the out process, especially after the month). It also specifies the time be possible. Industrial Disputes Act and the 2003 Amendment to the TEWA, frame within which remuneration The provisions of the Industrial Disputes (Hearing and which sets out a procedure which must be paid. The Shop and Office Industrial Disputes (Hearing and Determination of Proceedings) has been held to be not mandatory (Employees) Act makes the failure Determination of Proceedings) (Special Provisions) Act. but directory. The only recourse to pay remuneration in accordance (Special Provisions) Act require the However, despite such time available to an employer is to offer with the provisions of the Act an Commissioner General of Labour limitations being placed, these a severance package to employees offence and imposes the penalties to make his decision within two proceedings cannot be concluded who have become redundant and punishments that will be meted months of receiving applications as within the prescribed period and in return for their resignation. out to an errant employer. per Sections 2, 6, and 6 A (1) of the it will be ineffective in the current However, this will be a costly Since the Shop and Office TEWA. However, in the experience situation. It is imperative that BY CHAMINDRY SAPARAMADU simplicity rooted on what is exercise for an employer in the (Employees) Act does not deal of the writers, these inquiries often disputes are resolved swiftly and essentially local. present context. with the reduction of remuneration take a period in excess of a year. expeditiously. In less than 12 months, our Whilst conceding that and if an employer does reduce the The employer will have to expend In perilous times such as these, it island nation had to confront these initiatives are indeed Hence, if an employee’s salary remuneration of a workman without a fair amount of money as the is of utmost importance that neutral two devastating phenomena – laudable and refreshing, (a fundamental element in his consent, the Commissioner employer will be required to pay the and equitable ground is struck to both of which came through imagining beyond such the contract) is unilaterally General of Labour is empowered workman his or her wages. Even ensure the survival of industries cross-border transmission, simplistic solutions is reduced by the employer, to institute action against such in a situation where a workman and the wellbeing of the workman invisible to the eye in any required in responding to our it will be considered as a an employer. An inquiry need is terminated without permission, as the collapse of either will result material form, yet causing contemporary challenges. A fundamentals breach of the not be held to offer the employer the reasons in Section 5 of the in a plethora of social and financial devastation in incredible deeper and more pragmatic contract and thus illegal. an opportunity to establish a TEWA make any termination in issues. There are a few concessions dimensions. assessment of what is The employee will then be justification for the reduction contravention to the said Act illegal, that can be made available to Whether the source of the plausible in terms of such entitled to consider such an of remuneration. Instead, if it is null, and void, and accordingly, of the employer depending on the problems came in the form localisation, given our act as an act of constructive established that an employee’s no effect. After the conclusion of approach taken by the authorities. of ideology, capacity, or a contemporary challenges, termination and seek his remuneration was in fact reduced, the inquiry or during the pendency For instance, the EPF Act and medical virus, their impact must be undertaken both in remedy in the Labour Tribunal the Commissioner General of of it, the employer may be ordered the ETF Act specifically state the had been severe. The origins relation to our very existence Labour will be compelled to to reinstate the employee with back period within which contributions of both the Easter Sunday and progress. Even if an employer or a institute proceedings against an wages and other benefits and pay have to be made. Furthermore, both bombings and the coronavirus A deeper and more workman does not fall within the errant employer. compensation which is capped at a Acts empower the Commissioner pandemic have been outside pragmatic assessment ambit of the TEWA or Part IV B In this situation, the sum of Rs. 1.25 million. General of Labour and the members our borders; yet their impact of what is plausible in of the Industrial Disputes Act, this Commissioner General of Though the TEWA does not of the ETF Board to levy a on our political and social terms of such localisation, does not bestow the employer with Labour will not be in a position bind the Commissioner General of surcharge for delayed contributions. fabric has been hard to given our contemporary an unfettered right to terminate to consider the financial impact Labour to award compensation but However, authority is given to the manage and contain. challenges, must be the services of a workman. The of Covid-19 or incidental to act on his discretion, and in the Commissioner General of Labour The roots of both problems, undertaken both in reason being, that even though circumstances of an employer event of wrongful termination, it and the members of ETF Board to the ISIS ideology and the relation to our very the provisions of the said acts are prior to taking legal action. is the practice that compensation use their discretion if the employer coronavirus, are consequences existence and progress not applicable, an employee shall If, however, the Commissioner is awarded and is thus calculated is able to satisfy them that the non- of globalisation. Sri Lanka’s have an unfettered right to make an General of Labour is of the opinion based on a formula already payment was due to reasons beyond integration to the global world Is total self-reliance an easy application to the Labour Tribunal that the question of reduction does determined and duly published in the control of the employer. as a necessary concomitant of task to be pursued? If one to seek redress based on equity. not fall within the ambit of the Shop the Gazette. It is imperative that the globalisation was a process takes trade and manufacturing In addition, the Commissioner and Office (Employees) Act, in Commissioner General of Labour that commenced and evolved as an example, we are, as General of Labour or the Minister such an instance, the Commissioner Even if an employer or a and the Minister of Labour act in rapidly since the 1980s. a nation, dependent on of Labour may, in the above General of Labour or the Minister workman does not fall within an objective manner and afford This has generated many the global markets for the circumstances, act in terms of of Labour may consider the the ambit of the TEWA or Part industries all possible leeway in benefits by enabling access supply of some essential raw Section 3 and/or 4 of the Industrial reduction a dispute and act in terms IV B of the Industrial Disputes their discretion for the benefit of to several global markets materials for production. Disputes Act when the matter of the Industrial Disputes Act and Act, this does not bestow the the economy. such as finance, trade, labour, We are also dependent on is brought to his notice by the refer the dispute to conciliation, employer with an unfettered knowledge, or other spheres. the world for accessing employee and refer the dispute to arbitration, or to an industrial court. right to terminate the services The need of the hour With the rapid modernisation credit/financial markets and conciliation, arbitration, or to an The pitfalls of such a reference shall of a workman The laws relating to that we as a nation have assistance. It is no secret that industrial court. be discussed later. employment are very stringent and experienced, endured, and recovery from the Covid- In these circumstances, it is On the question of retrenchment These provisions are do not afford any leeway to the advanced in the last few 19 catastrophe has pushed of paramount importance that of workmen (for non-disciplinary counterproductive in this present authorities or the employer to act decades, accessing such us to borrow more, be it all parties concerned (i.e. the grounds), there are two alternatives situation. Industries have come in a pragmatic manner to ensure global spaces has become a through soft loan facilities employer, the employee, and that are available to an employer. to a grinding halt. The continued equity to both parties. necessity. or otherwise. Sri Lanka has the Commissioner [General] of One, is to obtain permission of payment of wages is draining The Commissioner General Whilst acknowledging recently borrowed from Labour) act with the best interest the Commissioner General of industries dry. The only option of Labour is not provided with such privileges, we have China, the World Bank, of all parties in mind to ensure Labour by way of an application or available to employers is to authority to promulgate the to also be mindful of the and further applied for an the survival of industries, and secondly, to terminate the services terminate excess workmen in necessary regulation to rapidly negative consequences of extended facility from the to minimise the negative social of a workman without permission. order to ensure continuation ease the burden on the employer such integration and/or over International Monetary Fund repercussions until normalcy is In the latter instance, such of industries. In the event of and to provide temporary relief reliance which has not been (IMF) to deal with post- established. termination will be considered termination, expenses will have to the employee during these so immediate, pronounced, pandemic recovery. Foreign illegal, null, and void, and shall to be incurred, which to many treacherous times. or visible. The less spoken remittances constitute a Are our labour laws be of no effect, and a workman employers will be prohibitive. There are several provisions of is the increasing levels significant component of our suitably equipped for post- is entitled to make an application The laws relating to retrenchment in our labour laws which place of dependency either in the foreign exchange earnings, Covid-19? to the Commissioner General of are inadequate and insufficient to undue burden on the employer. form of revenue, lifestyles, and dependency on foreign Due to the economic downturn Labour within six months of such deal with situations such as these For instance, in the present or ideology. In recent times, labour markets, whether in consequent to Covid-19, the most termination. in a fair and impartial manner context where employees are these have become more the skilled sector or unskilled expected labour-related issues that In both instances, the considering the plight of both the unable to attend to their duties, the deeply felt and more visible sector, has come to stay. may arise would relate to reduction Commissioner General of Labour employer and the employee. employer is compelled to make within our borders and their To me, the arena where of salaries and the retrenchment of will conduct an inquiry in order Regarding other disputes that may contributions to EPF and ETF on impact has been harder to our reliance on the globe workmen. The question is whether to ascertain if the employer is arise as a consequence of Covid- behalf of such an employee, which conceal and contain. is most pronounced is in our labour laws are suitably entitled to terminate the services 19, the Commissioner General places an immense financial Foreign remittances the field of technology and equipped to deal with these of a workman or not. of Labour and the Minister are burden on the employer. Even constitute a significant knowledge transfer. With a disputes in a timely, efficient, and When an application is made by enabled with certain provisions in when an employer discontinues component of our foreign weakly invested research and equitable manner. the employer to obtain permission, the Industrial Disputes Act. Under the employment of a workman exchange earnings, and development sector, local As already mentioned earlier, the Commissioner General of the said Act, the Commissioner with his or her consent, in terms dependency on foreign innovation is still at an early the reduction of salaries and the Labour may either grant or refuse (General) of Labour is empowered of the Payment of Gratuity Act, labour markets, whether stage. We need to constantly retrenchment of workmen (without permission. If permission is granted, to refer disputes to conciliation the employer is required to pay in the skilled sector or look to the world to borrow the involvement of the Commissioner it may be subject to certain terms and arbitration. The Minister is the employee gratuity within a unskilled sector, has come new research, technology, [General] of Labour) must be with the and conditions including terms and empowered to refer such disputes to period of 30 days of cessation of to stay and even higher education at consent of each affected workman. conditions relating to the payment arbitration or to an industrial court. employment. If the employer fails postgraduate levels. However, if such consent is refused of a gratuity or compensation. When a dispute is referred to to do so, he will be liable to pay a Since the Easter Sunday Hence, a simple and surcharge. attack and the Covid-19 blanket denial offers no Other jurisdictions have identified outbreak, there is much solution to the problem. the necessity for the involvement of discussion on looking Our strategy of engagement the state to reduce the burden on the inwards, on greater control and integration into the employer and have taken pragmatic of frontiers, of revitalisation world should be one that is steps to cushion the blow for both of domestic production, self- carefully crafted based on an the employer and employee. sufficiency in production and understanding of the ground For instance, in Singapore, consumption, etc. A series realities and the envisioning the State will put in place a “Job of new initiatives has been of potential threats so that Support Scheme” where the taken to counter terrorism, preventive measures against employer will be provided with control imports, boost export- such future catastrophes are a 75% subsidy for the first SGD oriented industries, zealously put in place. For example, 4,600 of gross wages paid for all safeguard the limited foreign hypothetically, the next local employees. reserve bases, etc. The global threat could be in Other countries too are on the Government recently gazetted cyber space or in the labour verge of passing or have already as non-essential items, a markets which may require passed urgent legislation to reduce wide range of consumable preventive measures such as the burden on both the employer items and others in a bid to cyber intelligence measures and the employee. Hence, it is control imports and has taken and better regulated labour of utmost importance that the new measures to incentivise migration processes put in legislature intervenes and enacts domestic production. There is place. Certainly, a greater legislation to minimise the effect also much hype about a return deal of envisioning is of Covid-19 on the industries and to a “Sirima” era and a life of required. employees. 14 the sunday morning OPINION Sunday, April 26, 2020

BY SAMANTHA RATWATTE PC Sri Lanka, in the long title of the 1978 Constitution, is called “the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka”. Though we persist with free health Social services and education, at best, the term “socialist” has been retained merely as a nostalgic reference to our past. This becomes clear if one examines the manner in which we have conducted our economic affairs since 1977. Furthermore, distancing the Constitution itself does not contain anything to justify the use of the word and “socialist”, such as a goal based on “socialism”. Thus, when Sri Lanka from the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic opted to save the lives of her people regardless of the consequences to the economy, unlike certain other countries, the decision was franchise for obviously based on our ancient values not yet dented by our “modern” ways and not related to describing ourselves as a “socialist” state. However, the terms “democratic” and “republic” in our title have, without democracy doubt, been used with the specific intention of relying on the well-known fundamental principles of democracy and nation by enhancing the stature of the by getting a lesser number of people to that certain public officials and elected voted and actually carrying it out in some republicanism as the foundational basis of institutions concerned. the polling centres at any given time. This representatives are in fact attempting instances. our Constitution. Faulting institutions due to the acts of can be achieved by the imaginative use of to achieve what the terrorists aspired to We have had a former President taking The sovereignty vested in the people individuals steering them serve no better the law rather than using the law to stifle achieve. the correct but somewhat democratically (Article 3) is at the core of our Constitution purpose than the lame arguments put democracy itself. The imploring made to the President incongruous decision to declare a British as we are a democratic republic as opposed forward by those politically opposed to The Elections Commissioner in terms of to exercise his discretion under Article High Commissioner persona non grata to a constitutional monarchy (ruled by a the President, faulting him for declaring Section 24 (1) (c) of the (Parliamentary) 70 (7) to summon the dissolved eighth for having complained of the ruling party king or queen). an election acting within the Constitution Elections Act is supposed to conduct the Parliament together with the request made supporters stuffing ballot boxes in the Article 3 also declares that sovereignty or making feeble attempts to convince election on the day nominated by the to the Elections Commissioner not to hold same election that was held when the which is inalienable is in the people and him that the dissolved eighth Parliament President in terms of Section 10 of the the poll to elect members to the ninth country was engulfed in terror. that it includes; should be summoned to make whatever (Parliamentary) Elections Act which is the Parliament are suggestive of attempts to We have continued to hold elections a) the powers of government possible political gains even at the cost of same date given in terms of Article 70 (5) destabilise the country in my view. despite widespread acts of terrorism by b) fundamental rights, and the country. (a) of the Constitution. It is a given that the actions of Parliament the LTTE till May 2009, when they were c) franchise. Thus, arguments faulting the If the Elections Commissioner is unable are not subject to judicial scrutiny unlike eventually defeated militarily. Thus, the only way of handing over Commissioner and the Commission will to take the poll for the election on the said the President’s actions which are subject to All these helped to preserve our powers of government in trust to the only make citizens lose faith in institutions date in any electoral district due to any the fundamental rights jurisdiction in terms democratic institutions in the long run president and parliament is by the exercise supposed to foster democracy for the emergency or unforeseen circumstances, of the proviso to Article 35 (1) brought in despite shortcomings and the battering of franchise (voting) at an election in terms betterment of the nation. he may specify a date for such poll in terms by the 19th Amendment. they received because we exercised some of the law. Vide Article 4 (a), (b), and (e). Therefore, politicians and citizens of Section 24 (3) of the (Parliamentary) There is also consensus even among form of franchise until we ushered in the Once a mandate is given by the exercise alike must have sincerity of purpose Elections Act No. 01 of 1981. the framers of the 19th Amendment “franchise-shy democratic era” in 2015. of our franchise, the executive powers of when making suggestions or criticising. However, the Elections Commissioner that it contains many ambiguities and Even then, despite the provincial government are exercised by the president The suggestions we make must be for has not specified such a date regarding an contradictions. council elections being stymied ably while the legislative powers and judicial the betterment of the nation, however alternative date in lieu of 25 April set out in assisted by the TNA (Tamil National power through institutions established by disadvantageous they may be for the the initial proclamation of the President. Summoning dissolved Alliance) stalwarts (hope Prime Minister parliament are exercised by those elected to political camp we choose to support at a As no contestant has opposed this move Parliament [Narendra] Modi will get to know this Parliament. given moment. by the Commissioner, he can publish a If Article 70 (7) is decided by a through the RAW [Research and Analysis Both these arms when given our mandate The views expressed in this article are gazette giving several dates instead of one dissolved Parliament (once they are Wing] before he tells us to implement the through the exercise of our franchise, penned down in that spirit. day to ensure social distancing. He can also summoned) as being an Article that stands 13th Amendment again) with yet another exercise “our” powers by representation. provide for more boxes and queues in the entirely independent from Article 155 (4), brilliant piece of “democratic legislation” This representation can only be as long Clear series of events same polling stations. it may be used to give them a license to go and despite warnings of the “intellectuals” as the mandate so given remains in force as There is no debate regarding the legality In the alternative, as no alternative date on in perpetuity. of the danger to democracy by the per the rule of law. and sequence of events given below; has been specified for the poll, it could Though Article 70 (7) refers to a exercise of our franchise, we managed to This is the basic premise of our The 19th Amendment to the Constitution be taken that (at least after 25 April) the requirement for the President to be “extract” an election and put in place the representative democracy and it is brought in by the seventh Parliament was election for all electoral districts has not “satisfied that an emergency has arisen to executive arm of government. inbuilt as part of the foundation of our certified on 15 May 2015. been held. summon a dissolved Parliament”, there One may complain of a deficit in Constitution as can be seen from the above- The eighth Parliament elected thereafter In such a situation, the President is is no provision for him to be “satisfied” democracy in Sri Lanka due to these mentioned Articles of the Constitution. began sessions on 1 September 2015. empowered to act in terms of Section 113 that such emergency is no longer there reasons but even the paragon of The Constitution is deemed to be what The President was constitutionally of the (Parliamentary) Elections Act. unless this Article is read with Article “democratic virtue“, the US, preserved we have given ourselves for orderly entitled to dissolve the eighth Parliament As it is possible under this Section 155 (4) which relates to the invoking of its highest democratic institution, the government while the laws made by on any date after 1 March 2020 in terms of by gazette to issue another order for an emergency regulations. presidency, by ensuring there wouldn’t be Parliament are expected to assist in this the proviso to Article 70 (1). election to be held in a “district”, such As the only way for such a Parliament a protracted assault on the institution by regard. Therefore, the rule of law is The President by proclamation, as order can be made for all districts by which has been summoned after a preventing a recount of the Florida votes embodied in the Constitution and the other constitutionally permitted, dissolved the separate gazettes. dissolution to end its term is “the in the year 2000. laws of our country. All these factors play eighth Parliament on 2 March 2020. Several dates and even different dates termination of the emergency or the Today, there is no threat to the election complementary roles in our democracy. In the said proclamation dissolving for separate districts can be given in order conclusion of the general election” in from any form of terror except perhaps the the eighth Parliament as mandated to assist the Commissioner to manage with terms of Article 70 (7), such a Parliament “terror of the result” in the minds of some Acting outside the Constitution constitutionally by Article 70 (5) (a), the same human resources at his disposal. can go on insisting that the said members of the eighth Parliament. should be last resort he fixed the date for the holding of the Several dates being so given is “emergency” is still there as long as the The only requirement to hold the poll Pushing the country into a situation election to elect members for the ninth envisaged even under Article 70 (5) of the general election is held in suspense. is to ensure maximum possible protection where the violation of the Constitution will Parliament as 25 April 2020. Constitution. The word “election” used If the President insists that Article 70 from a disease. This must be achieved be the inevitable result due to necessity, by Both Articles 70 (5) (a) and 70 (5) (b) in Section 113 and Article 70 (5) should (7) has to be read with Article 155 (4), the by employing all possible means except not using the existing laws to protect the entitle the President to fix several dates for be taken to mean the “poll” when used in eighth Parliament can insist it is not so the cancellation of the election which foundational basis of our democracy, will an election. the correct context with regard to the date/ and we would then have paved the way is essential to have the other arm of have serious long-term consequences. As mandated by Article 70 (5) (a), he dates of election. for an eternal dispute between a President democratic governance in place. If we need to act outside the Constitution also fixed 14 May as being a date within The Health Minister can also assist by with an electorally sanctioned mandate The (Parliamentary) Elections Act due to an absolute necessity, that must be three months of the proclamation for the making regulations in terms of Section 2 and an expired Parliament, without such of 1981, which has been observed in done as a last resort with utmost caution in ninth Parliament (new Parliament) to meet. read with Section 3 (2) of the Quarantine a mandate, that is standing in the way of the breach all these years, as far as a manner that causes the least amount of The President can vary the date fixed for (and Prevention of Diseases) Ordinance electoral validation. campaigning is concerned, could for the damage to the institutions and the structure the meeting of the ninth Parliament up to for social distancing to be carried out With the backing of the LTTE terrorist- first time be enforced to the letter and the of democratic governance created by us. any date within three months of the first by prescribing a maximum number of funded “international community” and true spirit complying with the rule of law. The challenge therefore, is for proclamation made on 2 March 2020 in people who should be permitted to cast certain hired NGOs (non-governmental This Act, by its stringent rules against everyone to get together to act within the terms of Article 70 (5) (c). This means he their ballots per box, the distance to be organisations), this is a surefire way certain forms of campaigning, will Constitution to preserve the foundational can vary this date to any date up to 2 June maintained between persons, etc. of wreaking havoc in our country in a automatically assist social distancing. basis of our democracy, however difficult it 2020. The President can facilitate the conduct manner no terrorists could have dreamed Candidates and political parties can avail may be whilst seeking to protect lives from As the Elections Commissioner has gone of the election (with the advice of the of. themselves all types of media including Covid-19. on record stating he needs five weeks to Election Commission under Article 33 They may well argue based on the same electronic media to convince us why we Holding the poll to have the ninth complete the process of elections, if the [1] [d] of the Constitution) by providing constitutional law wizardry through which should vote for them instead of getting Parliament elected is vital to having President exercising his powers under necessary security and the resources to they gave us the 19th Amendment, that their posters on our walls to do the the constitutionally agreed governance Article 70 (5) (c) extends the date for the conduct the polling in that manner. this is the best formula for democracy in talking. structure in place, whatever misgivings first meeting of the ninth Parliament to the By employing these strategies, we can our country unless the President and the The fact that the eighth Parliament one may have about the usefulness of maximum possible extent, the date would act within the law of the country and Elections Commissioner step in to protect failed to deliver anything meaningful to parliament itself. be 2 June 2020. ensure the continuity of the governance our hallowed but battered democratic the country and the fact that the seventh As a permanent cure for the Covid- If so, the constitutional requirement on structure by having the ninth Parliament in institutions. Parliament who were the framers of the 19 virus is not within sight, the the part of the Elections Commissioner place within the stipulated time frames. In this light, it is hoped the President 19th Amendment themselves admit its constitutionally mandated election must to conclude the elections in a manner One must be mindful that the LTTE would view the seemingly innocent ambiguities and contradictions, makes it a be held to be within the rule of law even that enables the new Parliament (ninth (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) request of summoning the dissolved dangerous instrument in the hands of the before we think of economic revival. Parliament) to meet before 2 June terrorists who acted against the interests eighth Parliament with necessary frustrated. We cannot afford to go on with only an 2020 could be met, as he has more of Sri Lanka at every given opportunity “seriousness” it deserves by having them It is hoped the ninth Parliament would executive arm of government which has a than sufficient time based on his own aimed at destabilising the country first and investigated for any possible terrorist have the sagacity to make essential mandate by the people. assessment. dismembering it subsequently via diverse connections. changes to remove such contradictions One may fault the Election This will demonstrate that the President methods. and ambiguities while remodelling Commissioner for the omission in the has fulfilled his primary duty cast on him They not only targeted the infrastructure Protecting democracy is the structures brought in by the 19th Gazette published purportedly under by Article 33 (1) (a) to the constitutionally of the country by acts of terrorism but paramount Amendment in a more meaningful and Section 24 of the (Parliamentary) Elections permitted maximum level to ensure that the sought also to prevent effective rule Sri Lanka has had elections in 1989 democratic manner. Act, or agree that the member of the Constitution is respected and upheld. by the State by their chosen method of where no campaigning was possible by It is also hoped the ninth Parliament Commission who is acting against national This should be more than enough dismantling governance structures through most Opposition candidates and very will have the foresight to realise and those interests by refusing to follow simple encouragement to the Commissioner their proxies. little was possible even for the ruling who come to the ninth Parliament from ethical standards expected when holding to keep to the time frames given in the The international standing of the country party candidates who may have had the pre-2015 era would use the benefit of public office, of casting aside personal Constitution, provided he acts sincerely. was also targeted by them to achieve their some form of security, despite threats their hindsight to realise that citizens seek views, likes, and dislikes, should be eventual goal. by the then formidable terror group of a better system than what existed both removed. Polls on several dates an option One must be mindful when legislating the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) post and pre 19th Amendment. These matters, justifiable as they may The poll itself can be held on several and also when using the provisions of law (in one of its previous incarnations) to (This article contains the writer's be, do not serve the larger interests of the dates which will ensure social distancing not to give the impression to the public chop off the fingers of the people who personal views) the sunday morning 15 Sunday, April 26, 2020 SPORTS Channa is gone z Eminent Ananda sportsman Channa Gunaratne no more Lalith Gunaratne grieved by the demise of his only brother Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Channa Gunaratne, who passed away last Monday, 20 April. I thank my friends and family for sending messages of sympathy and condolences for my only brother Channa’s Lalith Gunaratne led passing away. Also, my gratitude Ananda in 1967 Magnus Carlsen Invitational (promotional photo – chess24.com) to all those who had made some Col. (Retd.) Lalith lovely posts and comments on Gunaratne was also a top Facebook, not forgetting those sportsman representing who had reached out via emails Ananda in cricket, hockey, The art of swindling and messages. soccer, and athletics. It is more difficult to see He captained the formidable the passing of a male sibling. Ananda team in 1967 for their swindle possible? The books say a chess Memories, mostly of mischief Big Match against Nalanda, THE CHESS swindle is a ruse by which a player in a committed together, go a long led by Anura de Silva that losing position tricks his opponent, and way. year. He also skippered the CORNER thereby achieves a win or draw instead of Ceylon Schools XI the same the expected loss. Is it just a formal way Joined the services year against Indian Schools, by Dulan Edirisinghe of saying “a cheap trick”? Channa was a wonderful led by M.L. Jaisimha who Swindles can be quite artistic as well. brother to have, although we later vice captained the Indian Amid all the sporting suspensions due missed each other’s company national team. to the Covid-19 pandemic, online chess is more than a usual set of brothers, The Ceylon Schools XI thriving. With people encouraged to stay at mainly because we decided to that year included well- home, internet chess activity has never been join the services. known players like Sunil more popular with millions of quickfire chess He was bubbly and possessed Wettimuny, Tony Opatha, games being played online every day. a unique sense of humour. A David Ponniah, Anura de World Champion Magnus Carlsen has great sportsman, and a much Silva, Kumar Ramanathan, led the way by setting up “Magnus Carlsen better cricketer than I was. C. Sooriyakumar, Ronnie Invitational”, the most lucrative online chess Sibling rivalry was always Gunaratna, and Denham tournament in history with an unprecedented $ present, but it became more Juriansz. 250,000 prize fund. Carlsen sees the absence intense during Army vs. Air Lalith later captained of all other sports from the media as a unique Force cricket matches where the Army in cricket and opportunity for chess, and has taken it upon we played opposite each other. represented SL Board himself to pioneer the online chess revolution. One incident we joked about President’s XI against the Interestingly, the 16-year-old prodigy constantly took place during one Madras Cricket Association Alireza Firouzja was part of the elite eight- of these matches. looking at me, (his words) guy XI for the famous Gopalan man field for the tournament. Despite being White played 1.Kf4 in this “hopeless” position grinning, and he will twist it so Trophy. the 21st ranked player in the world, the teen A memorable incident said: “Balu weda” much and spread Pic Caption: Channa’s elder sensation recently beat Carlsen in two high- After 1.Kf4, black, obviously in a hurry to He was at the non-striker’s (loosely meaning, it around giving brother Lalith Gunaratne who profile online matches – first an impromptu win, played 1...c2?? (1...Rc4+ wins easily). end. At the end of an over, I dirty work). Channa Gunaratne him no possibility of captained Ananda in their 194-game bullet chess marathon on Lichess A nasty surprise greeted him. was walking past him to bowl A week after the recovery. 1967 Big Match chess server (Firouzja won 103.5-90.5) and to him and he said: "Aiya, third game, when we met then the final of the “Banter Blitz” series ball, loose ball.” I nodded. My our father, I narrated the story He stole my turn (Firouzja won 8.5-7.5). third ball to him was not loose and had a hearty laugh. When Many years after that incident we could call you the Father of Unsurprisingly, the Carlsen-Firouzja but a slow one. He swung and questioned by my father, he when match-fixing was coming Match-fixing.” Instantaneous matchup in the second round of the Invitational missed, giving me the feeling said he was checking loyalty – out by the dozen, I called him and one-word answer. “No.” I never was much awaited. Carlsen won the mini that he had thought I had taken “brother or Army” – and laughed. inquired whether he remembered came up with that again. Now match 2.5-1.5, but somehow it was his his request seriously. I bowled a But malli (younger brother) told the “third ball, loose ball” that he has left us, I thought it opponent who came out of the match with maiden over and was walking to me not to publicise it. He said incident. He answered in the would be a good time to share his growing reputation further enhanced owing my fielding position of mid-off. all his good friends will have a affirmative. I told him: “Malli, if the incident. to a fantastic swindle in the second game. When I was passing him, he was hearty laugh but one “ill-brung” I put that story out now, perhaps The Navy, Army, and Air Force After winning the first game, the World acts mention about superior Champion was closing in on a win in the officers. He had no superior second with the black pieces when it happened. An officer and a gentleman officers. Only senior officers. Top sportsman Air Vice Bandula Warnapura. Ananda, probably the biggest milestone He respected seniority and never Marshal (Retd.) Channa batting in their second essay, in SLAF cricket to date after broke rank, until the 20th of April Gunaratne passed away on were in a spot of bother. Then their entry into first-class cricket when he got ahead of me, his 2.Rh3+!! Monday (20) aged 68 after it was time for Channa to go to in 1967. senior, to go to the other side! It a brief illness. His parents, the middle. Teammate Lalith He was a member of the SLAF was my turn. He stole it. 2.Rh3+ gxh3 3.g3# , an elegant checkmate Douglas and Sheila Gunaratne, Ranatunga was looking for rugger team which emerged delivered by the last remaining pawn. It also were a great influence on both him everywhere in the dressing runner-up in the prestigious teaches us not to be impatient when the finish Channa and his elder brother room. Channa was found to be Clifford Cup in 1975, under Sqn. line is near. Lalith. in the toilet with pads on, easing Ldr. Shanthi Mendis. In 1986, he Channa was a special Some people mistakenly believe that a player Channa represented his alma himself, seemingly oblivious coached SLAF to Clifford Cup guy and all of us who who has outplayed his opponent for the majority mater Ananda College, Colombo of the dire situation his team victory, the finest achievement were fortunate enough to of the game is morally entitled to win. But by in cricket, rugger, soccer, has faced. Yet, the calibre of in their rugby ever. associate the great man its very nature, chess is not a cumulative game, swimming, and athletics. He batsman he is, Channa went on The last time we met each will miss him a lot.” and a single moment of premature relaxation, was Vice Captain of the Ananda to score a defiant 51 and saved other was in the company of The 1971 Ananda cricket like the one above, can instantly nullify hours rugger team. the match for Ananda. On and a few cousins at the funeral of Captain Saliya Senanayake of hard work. Although "swindling" in general Later, he excelled in both off the field, he has repeated another cousin, only a couple Firouzja-Carlsen usage is synonymous with unethical conduct, in cricket and rugger representing similar feats later in life. of months ago. The position after 39.Nf2 chess the term generally does not imply that the the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) He was an officer and a His ever-present bonhomie Despite being slightly down on material, swindler has done something unsportsmanlike. while captaining them in cricket. gentleman and a man for all and camaraderie prevailed and Your passion for rugby black has a significant advantage. White’s last Yet sometimes, when the competitive spirit He was a superb full-back and a seasons. Channa was putting his arm inspired me to play move almost invites black to play 39...Rd2, takes over, lines tend to be crossed. brilliant place kicker excelling During his schooldays, around our shoulders cracking rugby for Royal (College, and sure enough, Carlsen obliged. in the prestigious Clifford Cup Channa was a film fanatic. jokes. But it's so painful that Colombo). You taught us After 39...Rd2 40.Rb8+ Kh7, Firouzja rugby. His bosom pal Kuruppu says none of us realised Channa to play the game hard, stunned Carlsen with 41.Qg4! A close pal and schoolmate of that playing truant, they used would leave us so soon. but with soul and be a Channa, Damayantha Kuruppu to watch box-office hits at the He leaves behind his wife gentleman ... You made related this story that shows Ritz Cinema in Borella. Channa, Desiree, son Ruwinda, daughter- the connection for BNS Channa's rare ability to rise to a man with impeccable taste, in-law Dilumi, his two grand- to launch our first album the occasion. never missed a good movie in daughters, brother Lalith, and with Torana. In 1971, in the 42nd “Battle of the later years too. sister Sherini. Santhush Weeraman of the Maroons” Big Match played Channa was a member of the May he attain the Supreme the famous Bathiya & at P. Sara Stadium, Ananda was SLAF Division-I cricket team Bliss of Nibbana! Santhush (BNS) pop duo captained by Saliya Senanayake which won the Rahuman Hathy Haris Gunaratne and Nalanda by renowned Trophy in the 1980/81 season – The Island Will be brothers again soon I am deeply saddened that I White to play was not able to go down to Sri Lanka to pay my last respects In this extremely drawn endgame (notice to him. But I find solace in the the opposite-coloured bishops) between silver lining that I will remember The position after 41.Qg4! two unidentified players, both the players him “out of the box” and I will Suddenly, the threat of Qg6+ followed were in severe time trouble. live with it! by a checkmate is unstoppable. Later, 1.Be5+ Kh6 2. Bf4+ Kg7 3. Be5+ Kh6 I am so sad to see him go. But Carlsen explained his thought process in 4. Bf4+ Kg7 was played in a flash and they I know we will be brothers again a rather lighthearted way: “I thought 41... reached the same position. Here, white soon. Goodbye my brother, my Qf1+ was (check)mate. Obviously it is conjured up his “swindle”. He loudly called friend! Have a well-earned rest mate, but I'm not the one that's mating.” out “check” and sneakily played 5.Bd6. in peace! Once again, thank you The 1971 Ananda team for their annual Big Match. Channa It is not every day you see a swindle Black, expecting 5.Be5+, played 5...Kh6 is seated fifth from left. Captain Saliya Senanayake my friends and family for your good enough to fool the best player in in a flash. It shouldn’t be too difficult for is fourth and Lalith Ranatunga on the extreme right. concern! I was overwhelmed. the world. But what makes a good chess the reader to deduce what happened next. Standing third from left is Ajith de Silva who played in SL's Lalith Gunaratne inaugural Test under Bandula Warnapura in 1982 Arizona, USA 16 the sunday morning sports Sunday, April 26, 2020 Graeme Watson England’s turmoil FIFA releases aid! The shutdown of cricket in England FIFA is set to release advance payments no more and Wales will remain until at least of $ 500,000 (Rs. 964.8 million) to Former Australia all-rounder Graeme 1 July, meaning the postponement member associations to help ease Watson, who was battling cancer, of England’s Test series against West financial concerns caused by the Covid- has died at the age of 75. Primarily a Indies. The England Cricket Board will 19 pandemic. The world’s football middle-order batsman and a medium- meet on Wednesday (29) to discuss the governing body said the money, which pace bowler, he played five Tests from inaugural season of The Hundred series will cover operational costs during the 1967 to 1972, and two ODIs in 1972. due to start on 17 July. crisis, would be sent to each of its 211 members within the coming days.

OPINION SLC, cricket fans, and TV rights tenders These are turbulent times – in one way because a microbial being has started to rule the world, including all its superpowers who were otherwise gearing themselves up for a nuclear war, not an attack by a teeny-weeny enemy! And next is that our social value system has turned upside down. Fans make cricket popular but they are also the ones who are the most sidelined when it comes to periodical, mega-buck TV rights deals of respective national cricket boards.

SLC TV rights tenders The SL team will be in the process of making It is in such a situation that Sri Lanka Cricket or breaking in their immediate future and the (SLC) called and finalised its TV rights tenders TV company that have their production rights for the next three-year period. This time, during such a time will be extremely vital, strangely, they had divided the deal into three, particularly from their fans’ point of view. namely production, broadcasting, and digital, the media reported before the coronavirus Some pertinent questions outbreak. The media has already raised the following From the very outset, that looked really questions: What is IPGs reputation in highly strange. competitive live TV coverage market? Has SLC The SLC tender process for both production done a basic background check before selecting and broadcast aspects seemed extremely hurried them? What was the financial prequalification and ill-planned from the very start. It reportedly criteria the SLC has maintained before awarding April after the pandemic began spreading. botched the broadcast tender before preparing the contract? etc. On 9 April, its organisers, the Board of to award the production rights to a highly “Has there been even a single major Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced suspicious party, whose name is so far pretty international contract that was directly awarded it considered hosting the tournament in July much unheard of. to IPG by any major cricket board?” is a very possibly behind closed doors. The reports suggest that behind “the façade” pertinent question. IPL OR T20 Yet on 14 April 2020, the Indian of a pandemic, the SLC seemed hell-bent on Government said the country would be getting the production tender finalised. Yet, one Better late than never under lockdown until at least 3 May. The wonders why and for what. If they can figure In the “new normal” that is expected in the following day, the BCCI suspended the out something unwonted in this production post-pandemic world, even the ICC (International WORLD CUP? tournament indefinitely, leaving only the tender deal, doesn’t the SLC have ample time Cricket Council) is expected to make drastic August-September window for the money- to rethink about it during this hour where changes to its Future Tours Programme (FTP). z ICC in a dilemma rich league. everything has come to a standstill due to the So this will be a God-given opportunity for virus outbreak? SLC to re-evaluate its strategy going forward. It is evident the International “So, what’s next? With the door likely Contingency plans Although the SLC seemed to have understood They can now rethink and fix their mistakes Cricket Council (ICC) is chasing to shut on the T20 World Cup in the form But now, the ICC is likely to aim for their mistakes when they decided to retender on the broadcast and production tender rights. a mirage, as none of the sports of postponement, a window of opportunity hosting the T20 World Cup in February-March their broadcast and digital rights, they were That’s because at the end of the day, it’s the events planned this year are being opens for the Indian Premier League (IPL), 2021, thereby opening the opportunity to adamant to go ahead and stick to their right of the cricket lover that is affected. And, held in the current circumstances, which according to the ICC is more important, stage the IPL in September-October this year. production tender. as mentioned at the start, isn’t it the fan who with the coronavirus pandemic not because of its (IPL) status but because Yet at its meeting on Thursday, the ICC’s The TV company named IPG, which SLC is most decisive in the whole process? If they throwing the best-laid plans of the money. The wise men are reasoning,” chief executives collectively agreed to is planning to give their production rights are disappointed and leave the game (that’s a absolutely awry. it stressed. reschedule the Future Tours Programme for the all-important next three-year period, possibility if the team continues to fail and, to to 2023, because of the pandemic, while is, if simply put, a dubious firm. A mere add to that, the television coverage flops), the International media yesterday (25) strongly New ICC President contingency plans are being made to hold the Google search can tell you that…no serious value of the national team will depreciate and speculated there is no realistic possibility for Meanwhile, the cricket world is keeping T20 World Cup in Australia in October and investigation needed. naturally, their TV rights worth will become the ICC to hold the T20 World Cup, scheduled one eye on the ICC’s presidential election in November. Cricket Australia Chief Executive further poor. The situation will have a spiral for 18 October to 15 November 2020 in June. That has a strong bearing on the possible Kevin Roberts has said that they are exploring Why a dubious firm? effect that will carry the island nation’s greatest Australia, on time due to the prolonged Covid- options and whether to give the IPL priority all options regarding the T20 World Cup Why does the SLC want to join such a vague past-time into the graveyard soon. 19 pandemic. over the World Cup. and closely liaising with the ICC and the firm that is reportedly very much underqualified SLC, make amends! It’s better late than never. “The ICC is still hoping against hope about This year’s 13th IPL was originally Australian Government. to cover us, the Lankans, during probably one R. Wijewardene proceeding with the event…” a Mumbai- scheduled to commence on 29 March. (Courtesy Free Press of the most important periods in their cricket? Ratmalana based news agency reported yesterday. However, it was later suspended until 15 Journal and agencies) Practising tennis during the pandemic lockdown has to be a “new” normal, at least for quite a The players could then easily video themselves thousands of exercise routines which players Dinith considerable period of time in the near future. doing those exercises and send them to the can do even using their staircases at home. The With this in mind and the fact that the ability coaches using smartphone technology so that players would have to use their imagination Pathiraja of the players to get on court seems to be limited the players and coaches can discuss them from in consultation with their coaches to come in the near future, and also the fact that even the safety of their homes. up with a physical regimen which would suit ON COURT if they do get on court, the amount of time them. However, they should have the discipline that they can spend on the court might also be Tactical aspects to stick to such a regimen without cheating limited due to time and space constraints, it is The famous coach Nick Saviano has in fact their way through the programme, to achieve All tennis players have been at home for the worthwhile to examine the activities that the written an article on how even top players in the maximum results. last month or so. There has been a continuous players can indulge in while they are at home. world try to improve their tactical awareness curfew in the country during this time. The whilst they are at home. If it is good enough Mental aspects Government has started to relax the curfew in Four aspects of tennis for players of that level, it should certainly Mental exercises and mental practices form stages from the middle of the week onwards, The game of tennis is classified into four be good enough for the Sri Lankan players. the most neglected aspect of tennis practices in but still the curfew is prevalent in parts of the major parts. They are technical, tactical, What the players could do in this particular the country. This is the perfect time for players country. The threat from the coronavirus has physical, and mental. All four aspects of the situation is they can certainly use the time on to get used to such a regime. Visualisation is certainly not come to an end. There is a very game have to be perfected to a large extent their hands to write down particular tactics an activity which easily springs to mind. Since real threat, so if the population of the country if the players are to successfully compete in that they want to use when they get on court. this writer has extensively written about this does not adhere to the medical advice given this game. Therefore, when considering the They could also use this time to come up with particular aspect in earlier columns, it will not by the relevant authorities, there might be a activities that players can do whilst they are at tactics tailored to suit the opponents that they be discussed in depth in this space. Secondly, the second wave which might come up almost home, all four of these aspects must be taken also a type of aspect which can be learnt whilst would be meeting in the local circuit. It is not players can adopt and do various other mental immediately. into consideration in equal measure. Whilst at home. All players have various technical often that players get free time like this to use exercises which can be done whilst at home. Therefore, whilst the curfew has been relaxed initially one might think that doing activities improvements that they can do from home. The for a particular purpose such as this particular But since it has to be player centric the players to a large extent and normal life is returning in all of the above four parts of the game is not players can start a dialogue with the coaches endeavour. Therefore, it is up to the players to will have to speak to their coaches and come up within caution, this must not be treated as an possible at home, when reflected more deeply, whilst at home and discuss the things that use this time wisely. with an individual programme for themselves. excuse to rush back to normal tennis activities players will find that there are quite a number need to be worked on in terms of technique. It is up to the players and coaches to make immediately. In the opinion of this writer, of such activities representing the above aspects Then the players would be able to access Physical aspects sure that they use the time in this particular a reasonable time period of observation is which are, in fact, quite possible to be done at thousands of videos online on the particular This particular aspect of tennis is probably situation wisely so that they can make the best necessary before the coaches and players home. With this in mind we will now examine subject and watch them and understand how the easiest to do while the players are at home. out of a bad situation. If the players do so, they decide to get back on the court. Even then, the briefly each of them to discuss which activities they can improve. In fact, the players are able General physical exercises such as skipping, will be readier than what they otherwise would chances of getting back to the “old” normal are possible in such circumstances. to do so through interactions with the coaches, circuit training, fartlek running, and body have been when they got on court after this look very remote at this time. It is said that the using technology and applications like Zoom weight exercises are all exercises which require particular lockdown is lifted. But at the end of world is never the same after a pandemic. It Technical aspects or Skype. There are also various techniques little to no space to be done. Depending on the day, it really is up to the players and their remains to be seen whether that is the case in Technical aspects of tennis, which at first and small corrections which the players can the space available, the players could even do coaches to do so, because after all, “if there this situation too. However, in any case, there glance seem to be almost impossible to do, are perfect with their rackets from their homes. footwork exercises from home. Also there are is a will there is a way”. TOP TOURISM TRIO OUTLINE PREDICAMENT, PREPARATION, AND PROSPECTS »SEE PAGE 6

LET’S NOT LOOK TOO FAR AHEAD »SEE PAGE 3

Sunday, April 26, 2020 REOPENINGbusiness COLOMBO STOCK EXCHANGE DURING CURFEW Marriott’s Sheraton Colombo Prove you abandoned? z Employees allege financial misappropriation z Hotel management unreachable for comment can function, The 320-roomed Sheraton Colombo Hotel project, part of the world’s largest hotel chain Marriott International, Inc., which was slated to open at end-March 2020, is said to have been abandoned. This is according to a letter sent by a group of recently laid off employees SEC tells CSE identifying themselves as “victimised z Requests detailed explanation z CSE response over the weekend employees of Sheraton Colombo Hotel” to President Gotabaya BY CHARINDRA CHANDRASENA essential for the CSE to consider requirements are met in the event Rajapaksa, which has been seen by the interests of all stakeholders in the market is opened during the The Sunday Morning Business. The Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka this exercise and the importance curfew period, and that this will “We were enlisted to the Sheraton (SEC) has called upon the Colombo Stock Exchange of such decisions being made at a be sent to the SEC “over the Colombo from January 2020, and (CSE) to explain how it intends to ensure all operational meeting of the Board of Directors weekend”. the hotel was to open at the end of requirements are met if the CSE was to be opened of the CSE.” the SEC has said in When inquired as to what kind March 2020. during the curfew period. a letter dated 23 April addressed of mechanisms this would include, Contd. on page 2 to the CSE, which has been seen he said: “For example, if an This letter has been sent decided to call upon the CSE to by The Sunday Morning Business. investor can’t make a settlement following repeated requests by the carefully identify all operational When contacted, CSE Chairman through a cheque due to the CSE for the stock market regulator requirements, including issues Ray Abeywardena told The Sunday curfew, the CSE must have an to permit the opening of the market, of settlement, and spell out in Morning Business that the CSE employee at the ready who can despite the prevailing curfew in detail the means by which the is currently preparing a detailed travel to the investor’s house and the Colombo District. CSE intends to resolve them. The document on how it intends collect the cheque. “The SEC unanimously SEC is also of the view that it is to ensure that all operational Contd. on page 2

IMPORT RESTRICTIONS Hotel industry launches Vehicle prices anytime cancellation to shoot up BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR vehicles once again. But the issue BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR The Sunday Morning Business that Ukwatte noted that a majority of (SLTDA), is preparing a number is we have only a small number of all members of THASL are on board global cities are virus-free and people of plans to revive and develop the Import restrictions put in place high-demand vehicles and there is With most hotels being empty and with this new policy – about 218 hotels will begin to travel gradually with country’s industry. to prevent a foreign exchange bound to be a rise in their prices,” guestless, a number of hotels have including popular star-class hotels. extra precautions, and airlines such as THASL is a representative body of crisis are set to make vehicle VIASL President Indika Sampath launched a free, “anytime cancellation” “We have received several bookings Emirates have opted for rapid testing hotels in the country and hotels like prices skyrocket over the coming Merenchige added. policy in a bid to attract more bookings for January 2021 onwards, which would methods to check their passengers’ Amari Galle, Anilana Hotels, Citrus months, according to the Vehicle According to him, it is hard to over the rest of the year and in early amount to about 20-25% occupancy. health. Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, Importers’ Association of Sri Lanka predict the scale of demand they 2021. People around the world want to travel During a recent webinar, he stated Hilton Colombo, Galadari, and Heritance (VIASL), the representative body of might have after the curfew, but he The new cancellation policy and have a normal life. Therefore, such that people around the world are well Hotels, amongst others, are members automobile importers of the country. is certain that people who do not provides more leeway for international a policy would be flexible for travellers aware of how Sri Lanka is containing of THASL, in addition to considerable Accordingly, vehicles, especially own a vehicle at the moment might tourists to cancel their bookings even as they cannot foresee what the future the pandemic and the effectiveness of amount of medium-range hotels. fast-moving vehicles such as Suzuki feel the need to buy at least a small on the day of their arrival and get holds,” Ukwatte added. measures being taken by authorities The drastic drop in hotel occupancy Wagon R, Toyota Vitz, Toyota Axio, vehicle to distance themselves from refunded without being subjected to On a further note, he added that this and the health sector of the country, rates is not unique to Sri Lanka as and Honda Vezel, would witness a the public. However, people might not any penalties, according to The Hotels cancellation policy has also received which alone would create confidence most of the tourism-dependent South price hike of Rs. 200,000–300,000 want to replace their existing vehicles Association of Sri Lanka (THASL). support from state-owned SriLankan in potential travellers. Asian countries too are witnessing zero over the next two to three months. and go for newer models, due to the THASL President Sanath Ukwatte, Airlines as the airline too has to be In addition to this, the Sri Lankan occupancy due to lockdowns imposed “After the curfew is removed, possibility of reduced cash flow in the who is also the Managing Director of flexible when hotel bookings are Government, together with the Sri in many countries. in another two to three months, coming months, he believes. Mount Lavinia Hotel (Pvt.) Ltd., told cancelled. Lanka Tourism Development Authority Contd. on page 2 there might be a demand for Contd. on page 2 BOI to grant wish list of construction sector The Board of Investment told The Sunday Morning Business chains for materials and equipment (BOI) is likely to grant the that the letter they sent received have been severely impacted. construction industry a positive response from the BOI “Given these circumstances, an exemption from the and they are optimistic of receiving delays in construction projects Government’s new import approval. are unavoidable, and ensuring restrictions as well as “(The) BOI Director General BOI concessions are extended to extensions on BOI project responded almost immediately accommodate such unavoidable saying that they are looking at it. delays would be critical to ensuring Vehicle importers deny periods, to support them If contractors are prevented from the viability of many of these weather the current crisis. importing stuff which they need projects,” the letter stated. If granted, project-related for projects, they will pass the On 2 April this year, the Cabinet hoarding allegation inputs will be exempted from delay damages onto the developer. of Ministers decided to suspend or the Government’s recent import CDASL Chairman Suresh Rajendra So I’m hopeful that there will be limit importation of non-essential The Vehicle Importers Association of Sampath Merenchige refuted the claims, restrictions which were imposed to some good news on these requests. items. To contain the widening trade Sri Lanka (VIASL), the largest body of ensuring that despite being constrained by prevent a foreign exchange crisis, the Condominium Developers We have not yet received a formal deficit and impacts it would have vehicle importers of the country, denied the curfew, importers are clearing vehicles and the project period permitted Association of Sri Lanka response, but responses so far on foreign exchange reserves of the allegations made against them by the from the port as much as they could. under BOI agreement for projects (CDASL), the representative body have been reasonably positive,” country, import restrictions were Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) of “We will never accept such allegations. that are currently underway but of condominium developers in Rajendra added. further expanded to all import goods hoarding imported vehicles at ports We are trying our best to clear vehicles, impacted by the shutdown will the country. According to the letter, with exceptions given only for fuel, intentionally. but there are practical issues. It is not as be extended. CDASL Chairman Suresh construction sites have been pharmaceuticals, and raw materials Speaking to The Sunday Morning easy as they say,” Merenchige noted. A letter with these requests Rajendra, who is also the Head of shut down due to the ongoing for export-related manufacturing. Business, VIASL President Indika Contd. on page 2 specified was sent to the BOI by Property at John Keells Holdings, restrictions and global supply Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning business NEWS Sunday, April 26, 2020 Fitch downgrades Sri Lanka to ‘B-’; outlook Negative Fitch Ratings has downgraded Sri Lanka’s long-term foreign and local due to the pandemic and its effect on in 2019, and to continue rising, increasing 2021 hinges on an early return of tourism Large interest payments as a share of currency Issuer Default Ratings global liquidity and financing conditions. the risk of debt distress. This will see gross receipts and increasing domestic activity, revenue of around 65%, according to Fitch (IDRs) to “B-” from “B”. The outlook Our projections assume the sovereign general government debt stay far greater which is highly uncertain and is dependent estimates for 2020, a low fiscal revenue will not have access to international bond than the “B” median of 52%. on the course of the pandemic. A second ratio and high public debt/revenue ratio is Negative. markets in 2020. Fitch understands that the Fitch forecasts GDP to contract by 1% wave of infections that prompt further continue to highlight the weak structure Fitch said the shock to Sri Lanka’s Government is in discussion with various in 2020, from 2.3% growth in 2019, on periodic lockdowns would result in weaker of Sri Lanka’s public finances. The economy from the coronavirus pandemic parties, including regional central banks on account of the pandemic. Sri Lanka has GDP for 2020 and 2021,” Fitch noted. government debt/revenue ratio was about will exacerbate the already rising public the use of possible bilateral swap lines and so far recorded a relatively small number Fitch said the “B-” IDR also reflects 690% in 2019, significantly higher than the and external debt sustainability challenges, the IMF (International Monetary Fund) of coronavirus cases, and authorities have the key rating drivers such as the delay in “B” median of 258%. FX debt continues following tax cuts and an associated on its Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI) begun to loosen lockdown restrictions. holding the election. to be about half of total government shift in fiscal policy late last year. The for Covid-19-related funding. However, “Nevertheless, private consumption, “Parliamentary elections set for April debt, leaving Sri Lanka’s public pandemic will especially hurt the tourism even after such support, the country’s FX which makes up almost 70% of GDP, is 2020 have been postponed because of finances vulnerable to renewed currency sector, which combined with weaker debt service obligations and financing likely to stay muted as a result of partial health concerns from the pandemic and depreciation. domestic demand, will further damage challenges will remain substantial over lockdowns, domestic travel restrictions, have been provisionally rescheduled for Fitch was complementary towards Sri Lanka’s public and external finance the medium term. Official figures suggest and other social distancing measures. June, but the timing could be further Sri Lanka’s basic human development metrics. roughly $ 13.8 billion of FX debt will Travel and tourism, which the World delayed as circumstances warrant. The indicators, including education standards, Sri Lanka’s external financing come due over 2021-2023,” Fitch stated. Bank says accounts for 12.5% of Sri delay has prolonged policy uncertainty. which are high compared with the “B” and challenges have increased in the current Fitch expects the budget deficit to Lanka’s GDP, will be particularly hard hit, This, in turn, has made it difficult to “BB” medians, based on the UN Human environment of global risk aversion and widen to 9.3% of GDP in 2020, from an with commercial flights into the country complete the seventh and final review Development Index, which positions Sri financial market volatility, with large estimated 6.8% in 2019. This is weaker suspended. We expect GDP growth of 4% under the IMF Extended Fund Facility Lanka in the 60th percentile, well above upcoming external debt redemptions and than the authorities’ forecast of 7.5%, and in 2021 on the basis of a gradual recovery (EFF) arrangement. Discussions over a the 37th percentile for the “B” median. The limited foreign currency (FX) reserves, it Fitch attributed this to its expectation of in tourism receipts beginning in late 2020. new arrangement may be possible only country’s per capita income of $ 3,939 at said. significantly lower revenue due to the However, this forecast is subject to an after the parliamentary elections, and end-2019 is also modestly above the “B” Sri Lanka’s reserves are about $ 7.2 impact of the pandemic on economic unusually high degree of uncertainty and once next year’s budget is approved. The median of $ 3,335. billion, while the sovereign’s external activity and the spillover of tax cuts downside risk, depending on the evolution discussions could also be complicated by Fitch’s banking sector outlook was debt payments from May to December announced late last year. It added that of the pandemic both within Sri Lanka and the challenge of reaching an agreement revised to Negative in March, reflecting a 2020 amount to $ 3.2 billion, including a authorities may need to increase spending globally,” Fitch stated. on policies to place Sri Lanka’s public more challenging operating environment $ 1 billion international sovereign bond over time to support the economy, Fitch said the Negative outlook reflects finances on a sustainable path,” Fitch due to the pandemic, which has pressured payment due in October. Fitch estimates although they have yet to formalise any its view that risks are skewed clearly noted. banks’ asset quality and profitability. Sri Lanka’s external liquidity ratio, defined large-scale measures beyond 0.2% of GDP to the downside. The Central Bank has It believes a decline in tourism, lower Demand for credit is likely to remain muted as liquid external assets/external liabilities, for relief to vulnerable groups. responded to market pressures by ensuring remittances, and weaker exports are likely in 2020 due to the weaker growth outlook, at about 64%, among the weakest in the General government debt is high and the liquidity and allowing the currency to to widen the current account deficit to it said. Authorities took a range of measures “B” rating category. pandemic has increased risks for public adjust, thereby protecting reserves. 3.3% of GDP this year, despite some relief since the Easter terrorist attacks in 2019 to “The authorities are seeking to meet debt sustainability. The baseline forecast “Nevertheless, capital outflow pressure from lower oil prices, from 2.2% in 2019, accelerate loan growth, including lending external funding needs in 2020 through of Fitch is for gross general government and market refinancing risks remain in before narrowing to 2.3% in 2021, in line rate caps and policy rate cuts totalling 100 multilateral and bilateral support, but debt/GDP to rise to about 94% in 2020 the current risk-averse environment. The with Fitch’s expectations for a gradual bp, but Sri Lanka’s gross loans rose by just securing these funds could be challenging and 96% in 2021, from an estimated 87% potential for an economic recovery in recovery in the global economy. 5.6% in 2019, the slowest rate since 2009.

Contd. from page 1

Elaborating on the economic shock caused of pharmaceuticals, fuel, and selected raw to submit a Letter of Credit (LC) but the banks designers and engineers for Burj Al Arab, The Prove you... to the construction industry by Covid-19, the materials that are used for export purposes. are hesitant to provide LCs at the moment. He Address Downtown, Dubai Metro, and the Or else, we must ensure that the investor has CDASL in the letter proposed eight measures to added that even though the Government is 2012 Olympic Games in London. The interior internet banking to make the payment. So, we help them get back on their feet; permitting the willing to help them get the vehicles cleared, design contract was awarded to M/S Catallo are expected to cover all bases.” importation of raw materials and the extension Vehicle... banks’ support is also required. and Associates of Singapore. While the curfew is scheduled to be lifted of the BOI project period were among them. These comments were in response to a The vehicle industry is one of the worst- The letter goes on to say that the developers tomorrow in Colombo, the Government may The CDASL has also requested clarification statement made by Co-cabinet Spokesman affected industries since late 2018 due to the of the project had no financial difficulties as the reverse its decision due to the high number on restricted import items in order to avoid Minister Bandula Gunawardana on Thursday October crisis, Easter Sunday attacks, and necessary budgets had already been allocated of positive Covid-19 cases which have been further disruption in project supply chains. (23) where he suggested that vehicle importers now Covid-19. Vehicle registrations plunged for the project. reported over the past few days. Furthermore, the CDASL requested to are not clearing imported vehicles as they have to a dramatic low late last year. “As a matter of fact, this hotel project was The CSE, however, is hopeful that its waive off levies such as the Port and Airport no space to stock the vehicles on their premises – Madhusha Thavapalakumar still in its pre-opening stage, hence there was explanation would be sufficient for the SEC Development Levy (PAL) and cess on project- as they have no sales these days. absolutely no operational impact or cash flow to permit the opening of the market irrespective related material for a stipulated time period to “Imported vehicles have piled up at ports. deficiency due to Covid-19 lockdown. The of the curfew situation. stimulate development activities and reduce The SLPA Chairman told me that importers are Hotel... money required for pre-opening capital and If the SEC decides favourably, it is expected costs. allowing vehicles to remain at the port because Sri Lanka imposed an islandwide curfew on recurrent expenses were already budgeted and to provide letters to broker firms to enable them Moreover, their foremost request in the letter they (vehicle importers) do not have sales 20 March which is still partially effective in available. Therefore, fabricated ‘economic to obtain curfew passes for their employees was to permit and facilitate the commencement these days and therefore might have storage all districts except Colombo, Gampaha, and impact’ of the prevailing health emergency from their respective police stations. of construction projects as soon as practically issues if they clear these vehicles. However, Puttalam, which are completely under curfew. is only a deception and cover-up to hide their This appears to be a minor breakthrough in possible. The CDASL assured that “a this is leading to massive congestion within On 18 March, the Sri Lankan Government ulterior motives (sic),” it stated. discussions between the CSE and its regulator, resumption of work could be done based on the ports. We are urging them to clear these closed down the Bandaranaike International It further charges that financial relief and where the former has been keen to open the clear regulations and restrictions as advised by imports as soon as possible. There are 6,600 Airport (BIA) for passenger arrivals, which is concessions introduced by the Government to market but the latter has displayed some the Government’s health authorities”. imported vehicles at the Port of Hambantota likely to remain closed for some more time. provide relief to industries affected by Covid-19 reluctance due to fear of massive foreign The second request was to include property and 533 vehicles at the Port of Colombo,” Even before the closure of the airport, Sri have also been misused by the project owners. outflow from the market due to the current developers among the list of industries or Gunawardana had said. Lankan hotels were witnessing a significant “As far as we know, the Indian owners had economic volatility. During the first week of sectors eligible for financial concessions However, the VIASL believes that the number of cancellations due to travel over-valued this property at No 265, Galle the Covid-19 outbreak in Sri Lanka, regular recently announced by the Central Bank to help Minister is exaggerating the number of vehicles restrictions placed on Chinese tourists, who Road, Colombo 3 as well as the project to avail trading at the CSE was halted for 30 minutes on with working capital or cash flow pressures. that are yet to be cleared at both ports. are one of the top tourism generators of Sri hundreds of millions of Rupees on loan from three days after the Standard & Poor’s Sri Lanka It is notable that following the Easter Sunday “There cannot be 500 vehicles in the Colombo Lanka. Sri Lankan Banks, and syphoned off a large 20 (S&P SL20) Index, which includes the 20 attacks last year, the construction industry, Port unless a brand new shipment has arrived. However, following the curfew and BIA portion of that money to India. Furthermore, largest companies by total market capitalisation which is suffering since late 2018, requested Even two or three days ago there were only closure, occupancy rates hit almost zero, we are made to understand that the Sheraton listed on the CSE, fell by 5% on each day. the Ministry of Finance to provide them a 50-100 vehicles left. Our importers have been according to the industry. Hotels faced a management has availed itself all the banking The CSE has been closed since 20 March, moratorium similar to that of the tourism sector. clearing vehicles over the past two weeks. There similar issue this time last year, following and other regulatory facilities extended to when it was opened for a curtailed trading However, the request was shot down by then can be comparatively higher vehicles at the the Easter Sunday attacks. investors towards the mitigation of COVID-19 period after being closed for four days due Minister of Finance Mangala Samaraweera. Hambantota Port, but I highly doubt if there pandemic impact, but they do not appear to use to the Covid-19 outbreak. The curfew was The CDASL also requests the President are 6,600 vehicles,” Merenchige pointed out. any such financial facility for the well-being imposed that evening and since then, there has to encourage new investments greater than For further clarification, The Sunday Marriott’s... of employees or to secure their employments been no trading, making it the stock market a stipulated value by granting attractive Morning Business spoke to an official from However, as we have witnessed, the Indian whatsoever. We are equally suspicious that the that has been closed for the longest period in concessions. the Hambantota Port, who told us that there are management did not progress the construction Indian management would obtain COVID-19 the region due to Covid-19. In fact, only the In addition to these measures, the CDASL about 6,000 imported vehicles at the port and and other preparatory work of this hotel concessions from the Sri Lankan Government or Dhaka Stock Exchange in Bangladesh has also requests to fast track the implementation this number might change if a new shipment project properly and with the genuine focus Banks to make few more hundreds of millions been closed for a somewhat similar period, of real estate investment trusts (REITs) arrives or gets cleared. of opening the hotel by the end of March of money for them (sic).” having shut its doors on 29 March. Despite and related legislations, and to encourage However, the official noted that importers 2020. We are now compelled to think that When contacted for a response to these many countries around the world being in a foreign investment in Sri Lankan real estate. have been clearing the vehicles in the past Covid-19 situation was a blessing in disguise allegations, the HR manager of the hotel refused state of lockdown, the stock exchanges of these REITs are corporations that own and manage few days and the number of 6,000 vehicles for the hotel management to close down the to comment, saying he is unauthorised to speak countries have generally been open for trading. a portfolio of real estate properties and is the accumulated number since even before operations as they may have made their money to the media on behalf of the company, and Many stockbroking companies have had mortgages. curfew. The official added that considering by now (sic),” the letter states. directed us to the General Manager of the no revenue whatsoever for over a month due Rajendra is optimistic that the 30-member the prevailing situation and restrictions in Marriott International has over 6,500 hotel hotel. However, all attempts to reach him on to the closure of the market, which they have Presidential Task Force appointed on transportation, importers are given a grace properties globally and over 1.38 million hotel his mobile, including calls and text messages, repeatedly communicated to the CSE. Wednesday (22) would look into their concerns period until 30 April to clear their imports rooms, and this was a Board of Investment proved futile. and grant their requests. The Task Force headed from the port before which they will not be (BOI)-approved project signed seven years The Sunday Morning Business then reached by Basil Rajapaksa was appointed by President charged a late fee. ago. Lanka Hotels and Residencies (Pvt.) out to the BOI for its view on the matter but BOI to... Gotabaya Rajapaksa and aims to revive the According to Merenchige, delays in clearing Ltd. and its promoters, Greenwater Resorts was told that it is unaware of this issue. Construction raw materials were not given economy that has been severely hit by the imports have been mainly due to the prevailing (Pvt.) Ltd. of India and Eurocon Building “We have not received that letter yet. Usually any exception. Covid-19 pandemic. restriction and difficulty in obtaining permits. Industries FZE of the UAE together with what happens is that if there is such a matter According to the Central Bank of Sri Sri Lanka’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) “Even though we obtain permits to travel, their Sri Lankan partner, were reported to that reaches the President’s Office, it is then Lanka External Sector Performance report for was Rs. 14,449 billion in 2018, of which how can we send people in such a dangerous have made an investment of $ 80 million in forwarded to the BOI management. If and when December 2019, Sri Lanka’s building material the construction sector’s contribution was environment? How can we risk the lives of the project. we do receive the letter, we will be able to look imports for last year amounted $ 1.5 billion, approximately Rs. 1,083 billion. The total debt people? We have to think of everything,” he The letter alleges that there has been large- into the allegation and see whether there is any similar to the previous year, while base metal from the construction sector to private and state stated. scale financial misappropriation under the basis to it and decide on what action needs to imports were $ 562 million. banks stands at 20% of their contribution to Meanwhile, Minister Gunawardana noted pretext of “foreign investment” by the Indian be taken,” said BOI Director of Media and According to research done by Kotelawala GDP, which is over Rs. 216 billion.. that they have set up a committee headed by owners of M/s Lanka Hotels and Residencies Publicity Dilip S. Samarasinghe. Defence University (KDU), amongst the raw Deputy Inspector General Muditha Pussella to (also known as Sheraton Colombo). The letter has also detailed what it terms unfair material consumed by Sri Lanka’s construction facilitate vehicle importers and assist them in Sheraton Colombo Hotel was set to be a and arbitrary termination of 183 employees, industry, the highest volume – 33% – is being Vehicle prices... clearing their imports. 320-roomed property located in Colombo some of whom had been employed and some used for office buildings and 11% for market The Cabinet of Ministers last month “If importers encounter any issues with 3, complete with a Presidential Suite and who were to begin employment. The existing complexes. decided to halt the importation of vehicles regard to permits or other issues in clearing other themed luxury suites along with a employees had been paid a reduced salary for Meanwhile, the CDASL sent a letter to and nonessential goods, amidst the Covid-19 the vehicles, they can reach IGP Pussella,” collection of four restaurant outlets. The March and nothing for April as the hotel had President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on 17 April pandemic spread within the country. Early Gunawardana added. architectural contract had been awarded to informed them that their employment had been requesting relief for the property development this month, they decided to suspend all Merenchige responded to this saying that a leading global firm of architectural design terminated effective 1 April. and construction industry. imports into the country with the exceptions when clearing vehicles, importers are required consultancies, WS Atkins, who are also the – Charindra Chandrasena the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, April 26, 2020 ECONOMY Asia Securities forecasts high fiscal deficit and dwindling reserves Let’s not look The largest challenges to the temporary import restrictions which can better equip Sri Lankan economy stem from: (i) A high are expected to last three to five businesses looking to navigate fiscal deficit, (ii) weakening months and low global oil prices this tumultuous period.” USD/LKR rate, (iii) pressure on may help contain the trade deficit This analysis follows the GDP the current account, and (iv) high to some extent this year amid analysis published last month debt/GDP, according to leading significantly low export demand. by Asia Securities and looks at investment firm Asia Securities. On the reserves front, Sri the impact of the outbreak and too far ahead This assessment is contained Lanka is expected to receive subsequent social distancing in its “Asia Securities some support from foreign measures on other key macro By Macroeconomic Update: Forecast funding in the form of IMF variables. for Key Economic Indicators” (International Monetary Fund) Asia Securities’ Dhananath which aims to quantify the funding and new multilateral Macroeconomic Update Fernando impact of the coronavirus bilateral loans. However, slow last month explored a range pandemic on USD/LKR, bond forex inflows from remittances of scenarios with assigned yields, reserves, fiscal balance, and tourism may hamper probabilities to estimate In cricket, most great batsmen trade balance, current account, reserves, weakening it to 3.2–3.8 the impact of Covid-19 on will tell you that they don’t go inflation, and debt/GDP. months of imports. Sri Lanka’s GDP; the most out to bat thinking “I will score In the base case scenario where On the positive side, the report probable case forecasts a GDP a century today”. They break the virus containment could suggests that inflation will taper contraction of 4.0-.5% in real their innings down to phases; happen by end-May (60-75% off in 2020 as a result of lower terms. However, the impact “let’s score 10 runs”, “let’s score probability), Asia Securities demand side pressure. While could change depending on how 20 runs”, “let’s survive the next In stormy weather, it helps to focus on the next few meters, without thinking about forecasts that the fiscal deficit food inflation could remain high the outbreak evolves as there getting home fast (as a percentage of GDP) could in 1H2020, this would normalise are several unknowns affecting four overs”, etc. Basically, “let’s The status of our basics rise to 8.9–10.7% in 2020 from in 2H2020. forecasts at this point of time. face the next ball”. While this 6.5% in 2019. Despite the Asia Securities Economist A full breakdown of all may be misconstrued as a lack The next question is what can we do Government’s measures to curb Lakshini Fernando notes: “While scenarios and assessments are of ambition, the underlying and what should we do to get beyond expenditure, low government there are several uncertainties available to Asia Securities’ principle is that when you the floating stage. We have to evaluate revenue is expected to contribute about (the) Covid-19 outbreak clients via the Research Portal look too far ahead you can the status of the basics and spend time to high fiscal deficit. and its economic impact, we or their investment advisor and lose sight of the here and now. on getting our basics right at this dark Although the report projects hope that our analysis, which will be updated as the situation In cricket, this could mean and stormy hour. Our fundamentals for the trade balance will worsen, the offers a range of scenarios, evolves. getting out for zero while your sound economic policy have never been mind is on the 100. by right in the last three to four decades. We should not lose the benefits of Covid-19, the virus that found its bringing hard reforms and getting the origins in China, not only has Sri Lanka fundamentals right while we fight locked in its megalodon jaws, but the The strategies that worked for us in this crisis. entire world as well. While this too overcoming the Boxing Day Tsunami, For example, when pay cuts and shall pass, we have to admit that we fighting the brutal civil war against job losses take place post opening are well and truly in an unprecedented the LTTE, and overcoming the Easter up, people will actively look at part- crisis. We will not be safe until the world Sunday bomings last year may not work time opportunities and work more is safe and that is the reality. Having in this battle against Covid-19. to earn an income. At that point, if faith that things will be back to normal We are in a situation where every our business registration takes three soon is good but our actions should go contract/agreement signed at every months and if getting an online beyond simply being optimistic and level has been challenged. It starts from payment platform takes months for hopeful. Without beating around the a simple violation of a rent agreement, an e-commerce business to take off, bush, let’s be realistic and pragmatic by not being able to pay the house rent the million opportunities created due by being scientific. In the past, we on time, to a national-level crisis where to Covid-19 will be taken away by our have relied on soothsayers who appear we lack adequate foriegn currency to neighbouring competitors. A study done on television, devil dancers, turmeric pay our foreign debt commitments. by the Advocata Institute has found (good luck finding turmeric, now that Having seen the negative side, the that registering a sole proprietorship is there’s a price control), and our love reality is there will be a multitude of far more difficult than incorporating a of bashing coconuts. The fact is that opportunities which will open up once private limited company. If we fail to fix until we see the production of a vaccine the storm dies down. The challenge is that level of basic reforms (which can be or an acceptable solution, the entire the inability to predict the opportunities easily fixed) we will not have any space human race is sailing in the eye of the or the shortfalls. So when managing and to capitalise on the opportunities even corona storm. strategising for the long term, a “one size if we get the support from development Many corporate dons and government fits all solutions” plan is very futile at agencies over the next few months. officials in Sri Lanka have been this juncture. However, it doesn’t mean Convoluted and complicated pitching in with their business plans that we need to take the comfortable seat customs procedures and red tape and strategies on what can be done or take a “do nothing and wait” stance. have been discussed for years. South “post-Covid”. Sri Lanka has faced the Our game plan has to be pragmatic and Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt.) Ltd. pandemic reasonably well compared to a dynamic. (SAGT) CEO Romesh David, at a few of the other countries, but in a crisis A game plan can be pragmatic recent online forum on Sri Lanka’s of this magnitude, in a closely connected if we have our basic fundamentals exports economy with Advocata, said world, the impact of a neighboring right. Predicting opportunities and that even in the context of Covid-19, nation’s mishandling of the crisis can developing strategies for a crisis goods can cross borders and systems serve as a cautionary tale for the rest without having the “basics” is similar can be automated. If we are not ready of the world. There is no point in early to trying to solve an integration and to fix these basic regulatory barriers at celebrations for doing well or having differentiation mathematical question Sri Lanka Customs, even our revised anxiety about those who may have without having the basic knowledge of export target will be just an imaginary mishandled the crisis, as we all are at addition, subtraction, and multiplication number. square one and need to overcome this functions. In summary, our strategy from a together. In a recent conversation with national level to that of a small business Sentiments on anti-globalisation Advocata, Export Development Board has to encompass the ability to float and going back to the fallacy of “self- Chairperson Prabash Subasinghe said pragmatically as we are still in the eye sufficiency” is not the solution as we it well: “This is a marathon not a race.” of the storm. At the same time we have failed that experiment comprehensively At this point of time it is of paramount to make sure to utilise our energy on almost five decades ago. In a crisis of importance that we have a strategy to getting our basics in economics right, if this scale, all predictions made will float for the next 12-18 months and we are to capitalise on the opportunities fall apart in a matter of not months but we have to play it dynamically and that will unfold when the storm is over. days. Take Sri Lanka as an example. sail based on the direction of the wind. In difficult times people will be open We had all planned to open up the For the economy to stay afloat, we to hard reforms and governments can Western Province on 22 April but have to negotiate with the International spend political capital on getting hard reported cases increased rapidly just Monetary Fund (IMF) for a balance of reforms done. The Government should two days before. How do we plan in payment (BOP) bailout programme move back to their role as a facilitator an unpredictable crisis and what should and request them to provide financial rather than trying to become an active we do is the question that has to be assistance to keep us afloat in the player and throw long-term strategies answered sensibly. coming months. At the same time, during one of the most serious crises we need to use our foreign office and in the history of mankind. Historical examples may actively seek for bilateral loan facilities (The writer is the Chief Operating have limited relevance to manage the crisis. Import controls, Officer of the Advocata Institute and As with managing any crisis, we liquidity injections, the Government can be contacted at dhananath@ generally make our decisions based taking over food distribution, and price advocata.org. Learn more about on historic perspectives we have and controls are not at all advisable actions Advocata’s work at www.advocata. connect with learnings from peers. and they won’t help us to keep the rupee org. The opinions expressed are First, we have to realise Covid-19 is afloat, versus the dollar. Rather we will the author’s own views. They may an unprecedented scenario and how lose our dynamism and pragmatism and not necessarily reflect the views of we managed previous crises will hardly crush even the little credibility we have the Advocata Institute, or anyone help us to overcome the current battle. on markets. affiliated with the institute)

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) clarified that there is no hindrance to provide any additional financial assistance recently that its recent to above mentioned categories of measures to ease pressure CBSL permits remittances Sri Lankans currently abroad to on the exchange rate do meet their basic needs at this time not place any restrictions of difficulty. However, we request on remittances/payments all concerned parties to make use for current transactions to Lankans stranded abroad of this opportunity in a responsible including overseas Lanka can send money to them to sports, recreational and cultural course fees, living expenses, It added that such persons can manner.” educational, medical, and meet living expenses/upkeep. activities, etc. as well as on student medical charges, or as any related also use their credit, debit (ATM), The Central Bank recently family living expenses of Sri This applies to Sri Lankans or equivalent visas. fees, etc., through an authorized and foreign travel cards issued introduced a slew of measures Lankans living or stranded who have gone abroad for short “Family members residing dealer (AD) in foreign exchange to them by ADs for payments or to ease the pressure on the abroad. visits for leisure and holiday, in Sri Lanka are permitted to (any licensed commercial bank or cash withdrawals, or to obtain exchange rate, such as reducing the to meet relatives and friends, send money from Sri Lanka to a permitted licensed specialised cash advances in foreign currency maximum limit of foreign currency If they are stranded abroad on pilgrimage, for business persons who have gone abroad bank) upon submitting relevant during their stay abroad in respect notes issued for travel purposes and amidst the prevailing pandemic purposes, training, seminars, and for studies or medical purposes, documentary evidence as usually of transactions of personal nature. restrictions on outward remittances situation, their families in Sri conferences, medical treatments, being university/tuition/training/ required by ADs.” “(The) CBSL wishes to reiterate on capital transactions. 4 the sunday morning business EDITORIAL/BANKING Sunday, April 26, 2020

The global food supply chain Given the movement restrictions, has already begun to feel border closures, and transport the impact of the pandemic, disruptions in virtually every part raising questions about of the world, the response to the food security for the most currently brewing global food crisis vulnerable nations and Food for thought must of course be one of global communities. For many of physical and economic access to food systematically brought back to work produce; bringing this down to the scale. While governments must the more affluent consumers of the right quality, nutrition, variety, to ensure continued local supplies. globally accepted rate of 10% requires protect their domestic food supply, around the world, the current and desirability. Given that definition, Any resilience we hope to enjoy in the urgent attention. This encompasses they must come together with shortages, the hardships it’s not just the impoverished that may medium term will pivot on our ability multiple factors such as the infusion other governments, international in accessing groceries, and face issues of low food security in the to put food on people’s tables. At the of technology to agriculture practices, organisations, producers, and the limited choices may be coming days. It’s a given then that the same time, it is of utmost importance critical data for better demand and businesses to sustain the global food marginalised will be the most affected; a that we guarantee the safety of workers supply management, improving supply through this pandemic. The new experiences. The food World Food Programme (WFP) bulletin across our food value chain – on farms infrastructure for better storage and Food and Agriculture Organisation challenges have been a on Sri Lanka warned that “a continuing and warehouses, in trucks and plants, distribution, creating ground-level (FAO) has already called for stark reminder of the gross situation may create a high level of THE and at markets and stores. awareness on better packaging, and governments to eliminate export inequalities everywhere – food insecurity and indebtedness for This is as good a time as any for some value addition. This is also a good restrictions and import tariffs to those who do not have the most vulnerable groups in the country”. HEADLIGHT critical introspection on Sri Lanka’s moment to focus on creating better prevent food shortages and keep means to stock up, those who In a very simple sense, where there food security – to build on our proud demand for local produce and locally the supply chain moving. The food are not within physical access is food, there is food security, which claims of being the Ancient Granary manufactured food products such as supply chains must keep moving of fresh supplies, and those explains why home gardening – on imported foods, Sri Lanka is at an of the East and create a modernised, powdered milk and tinned fish. While around the world even while people facing shrinking purchasing whether in containers or on balconies advantage as we have the capacity to efficient food supply chain that many of these areas have seen much remain in lockdown; if access and power owing to pay cuts or – is a good idea to meet at least some grow much of our own fresh produce ensures sufficient nutritious food is improvement over the years, much distribution of food is not addressed wage losses. food needs. But home gardens don’t and, thanks to a bountiful Maha season, made available to every Sri Lankan, more needs to be done to ensure that with urgency, a world already deeply quite make a dent in the complex web have adequate stocks of our staple rice especially the most vulnerable. both the producer and the consumer damaged socioeconomically is Food security doesn’t necessarily that makes up the global food system. to last us well into September. But Sri Lanka records a very high benefit as well as to remain competitive staring down the threat of hunger and mean starvation – it is to do with the Compared with countries that depend it is critical that our food system is 30-40% post-harvest wastage for fresh against imports. malnutrition of the most vulnerable.

BOC, HNB, Sampath placed on review for Will Covid-19 help you open downgrade: Moody’s a bank account from home? Moody’s Investors export-oriented sectors, Service has placed the B2 and domestic activities and facilitated 40.27 billion Aadhaar long-term local currency because of the coronavirus authentications. deposit and foreign pandemic. The deterioration By The excerpt below from the UIDAI currency issuer ratings of in macroeconomic Tharaka De official website explains the purpose Bank of Ceylon (BOC), conditions also has the and operation of Aadhaar: “The Aadhaar Hatton National Bank PLC potential to substantially Alwis number is a 12-digit random number (HNB), and Sampath Bank weaken the banks’ asset issued by the UIDAI (“Authority”) to PLC (Sampath) on review quality and profitability. With consumers around the the residents of India after satisfying for downgrade. At the same time, the world stuck at home due the verification process laid down by the At the same time, risk-off sentiment among to government-enforced Authority. Any individual, irrespective Moody’s has downgraded global investors could also lockdowns, the smart of age and gender, who is a resident of the baseline credit hinder the government’s businesses are scrambling India, may voluntarily enrol to obtain assessment (BCA) of access to external to upgrade their digital Aadhaar number. Person willing to enrol BOC to b3 from b2 and borrowings, exacerbating has to provide minimal demographic placed it on review for the deterioration in the infrastructure to be able to and biometric information during the further downgrade, while government’s fiscal position continue serving customers enrolment process which is totally also placing the b2 BCAs and ability to support the while potentially attracting free of cost. An individual needs to of HNB and Sampath on banks in times of need. The new customers whose needs enrol for Aadhaar only once and after review for downgrade.The degree of negative impact go unmet by a struggling deduplication only one Aadhaar shall be outlooks have been changed will depend on the length competitor. generated, as the uniqueness is achieved to Rating Under Review of the disruption, which through the process of demographic and from Stable. is uncertain at this point,” Amidst all the chaos, the banking and within one day as well, and a couple of down this horror story of new customer biometric deduplication.” The rating actions follow Moody’s said. financial services industry remains an these are as follows. onboarding to something more palatable On 29 May 2019, the Reserve Bank Moody’s placement of Sri The downgrade of BOC’s essential cog in the complex machinery 1. 40-year-old NIC document issued on – Nations Trust Bank PLC (NTB). Being of India (RBI) issued a notification titled Lanka’s B2 sovereign rating BCA mainly reflects the that is our modern economy. Banks have cheap-quality paper and laminate is from the technology sector and a total “Amendment to Master Direction (MD) on review for downgrade. deterioration in the bank’s a vital role to play in this fight against the not clear enough, so go get a new one outsider to the banking community, I was on KYC to all banks and entities under asset quality as well as the Covid-19 economic meltdown and it is from the NIC department (Department very fortunate to be given an opportunity its jurisdiction”. The excerpt below from Ratings rationale bank’s low capitalisation their solemn responsibility to do so in the for Registration of Persons). to lead the technology innovation division this notification explains the provisions The decision to place when compared to its Sri best interest of all stakeholders and wider 2. Current address is not mentioned in of FriMi in early 2018. Since then, FriMi allowing regulated entities to conduct the banks’ assessments Lankan peers, Moody’s citizenry. One of those responsibilities is the ID document. Working professional and a number of copycat competitors KYC using Aadhaar-based authentication/ and ratings on review said. to facilitate access to financial services but living with parents with the only from other banks have successfully verification of a customer’s identity: for downgrade reflects “BOC’s problem to all citizens. bill to your name being from your improved their app-based customer “2. Important changes carried out Moody’s placement of Sri loan ratio, based on the Access to financial services can be mobile telecom service provider? onboarding journey. in the Master Direction in accordance Lanka’s B2 sovereign rating proportion of Stage 3 broadly broken down into four subject Obviously not paying rent to your Yet, there are still some strings with the aforementioned amendments on review for downgrade. loans under the equivalent areas: parents, therefore no lease agreement? attached. In order to have a fully fledged are listed hereunder: Moody’s said it believes of IFRS (International 1. Access to product information Sorry, that’s not good enough. You account, customers need to be subjected a) Banks have been allowed to carry that there is a high level Financial Accounting 2. Access to seamless onboarding might be 30 years old, but please to an interview by a bank staff member out Aadhaar authentication/ offline- of dependency between Standard) 9, rose to 3. Access to product benefits bring a letter from mommy and face-to-face. While there are some verification of an individual who the creditworthiness of more than 10% as of 31 4. Access to support services daddy confirming you live under their temporary exemptions that have been voluntarily uses his Aadhaar number Sri Lankan banks and that December 2019 from 9.2% While several banks in Sri Lanka excel watchful protection. granted by the Central Bank to enable for identification purpose. (Section 16 of the sovereign because a year ago amid subdued in areas 1, 3, and 4 and never miss an This is the horror story which most limited digital onboarding during this of the amended MD on KYC) the banking operations tourism activity following opportunity to proudly announce the fact, customers endure to get the services of curfew period, a long-term solution is b) ‘Proof of possession of Aadhaar are largely domestic and the Easter Sunday 2019 no bank appears to be willing to deal with our top Sri Lankan banks who charade nowhere in sight. number’ has been added to the list of the banks hold significant terrorist attack. The bank’s the elephant in the room, which is area their awards for being the “Best Bank in” A study of the local banking Officially Valid Documents (OVD) amounts of sovereign debt. Common Equity Tier 1 ratio No. 2 – customer onboarding. this and “Best Bank in” that. There is a regulations, global best practices, and with a proviso that where the customer In addition, the sovereign’s of 11.4% as of 31 December As of today, the majority of LCBs Sinhala saying that is very appropriate for current banking operations shows that submits ‘Proof of possession of credit strength is a key input 2019 is also modest relative (licensed commercial banks) follow the this type of behaviour that goes “kathawa the root of this customer onboarding Aadhaar number’ as OVD, he may to Moody’s assessment of to the rated peer average below process, with minor variations, nam dolawen, gamana payin”, which problem stems from the lack of a system submit it in such form as are issued the government’s ability to of 13.4%, reflecting a when onboarding a new customer to the loosely translates to “all talk no action”. to digitally verify the identity of a person. by the Unique Identification Authority support the banks in times weak loss buffer amid a bank for a CASA (current account/savings However, one might argue that the This topic has been debated heavily of India (UIDAI). (Section 3 of the of need. deteriorating operating account) product. While onboarding for above is only a one-sided customer between the various identity issuing amended MD)” The rapid and widening environment.” other products like loans carry additional perspective without any appreciation authorities such as the Department for Having this infrastructure has allowed spread of the coronavirus Despite its weakening steps related to credit risk evaluation, the of the issues faced by banks and the Registration of Persons, Department India to empower its citizens with outbreak, deteriorating solvency, Moody’s expects KYC component will remain the same. industry’s concerns. So we will now of Immigration and Emigration, and financial inclusivity. In addition to global economic outlook, the bank’s funding and Here is what a completely wasted half look at some of the underlying reasons Department of Motor Traffic, which issue this, it has allowed the Government volatile oil prices, and asset liquidity will remain stable a day trying to open a bank account in used by banks to justify this process. NICs, passports, and driving licenses, (of India) to provide numerous financial price declines are creating a over the next 12-18 months. Sri Lanka looks like: As per the Banking Act of Sri Lanka respectively. These three documents and non-financial services to citizens in severe and extensive credit Moody’s incorporates 1. Fill out an extremely lengthy and a number of operating guidelines/ to date remain the only official valid an organised, cost-effective, fair, and shock across many sectors, a very high probability application form which has two circulars issued by the Central Bank documents (OVDs) accepted by a transparent manner. The UIDAI is also regions, and markets. The of government support main components. The generic KYC and its sub departments, all licensed financial service provider to fulfil the a very sustainable government service Sri Lankan banking system in the ratings of BOC, information and the specific product- commercial banks and financial KYC requirements. which has a practical fee structure has been one of the sectors reflecting the bank’s related information. institutions have the below stated None of the three issuing authorities, charged to the financial institutions affected by the shock, systemic importance as the 2. Request the customer to visit a branch obligations in terms of KYC/CDD (know even with the support of the Information requesting Aadhaar digital verification given Sri Lanka’s weak largest bank in Sri Lanka to submit above applications. your customer/customer due diligence): and Communication Technology Agency checks. economy and heavy reliance and the government’s full 3. Request an accepted form of identity. 1. Ascertain the validity of the ID (ICTA), have introduced simple and A country with 55 times the population on external borrowings. ownership of the bank. As This can be your national identity card document presented by the customer secure application programming of our nation and a literacy rate 20% Moody’s regards the a result, BOC’s B2 long- (NIC), driving license, or passport. 2. Ascertain the identity of the customer interfaces (APIs) facilitating electronic lower than ours has been able to coronavirus outbreak as a term local currency deposit 4. If living in an address different to against the ID document provided by data interchange (EDI). The lack of such utilise their collective creativity and social risk under its ESG and foreign currency issuer what’s mentioned in the identity the customer mechanisms has severely restricted the intelligence to create this much-needed framework, given the ratings are a notch higher document, a billing proof as proof of 3. Ascertain the customer’s eligibility ability of financial services providers infrastructure. substantial implications for than the bank’s BCA. permanent address will be required. for the product/banking service to seamlessly verify and validate the Sri Lanka has some of the greatest public health and safety. While Moody’s Accepted forms of billing proof being 4. Maintain an audit trail of the customer’s authenticity of the customer submitted minds in Asia, some of its brightest tech Yesterday’s action also incorporates a high water bill, electricity bill, and fixed line onboarding application and supporting ID document. The ownership is a companies, and internationally exposed incorporates the negative probability of government telephone bill in your name. If living documents different aspect altogether requiring banking veterans. At least spurred on by impact on BOC, HNB, and support in the long-term on rent, a copy of the lease agreement 5. Ensure the above processes are carried identity issuers to incorporate biometric the realities of Covid-19, it is time for all Sampath of the breadth and local currency deposit will also be required. out by an active staff member of the mechanisms such as fingerprint, iris stakeholders to work on a holistic policy severity of the shock as well and foreign currency 5. A brief yet boring interview by a bank bank, which must also be approved scans, and face scans into the identity framework and technology solution to as the likely deterioration in issuer ratings of HNB staff member at the branch. by a different staff member of the document. But at least a digital means enable a digital identity for all residents the banks’ asset quality and and Sampath, in line with If you are lucky, you’ll get your bank. A common safeguard in banking to verify the validity of an ID document of Sri Lanka. in the government’s ability the banks’ sizable market account opened after fulfilling all of operations known as maker/checker. is a good starting point. (The writer is the Chief to support these banks in shares in terms of deposits, the above criteria, and at times after A number of other KYC/CDD Information Officer of Global times of need. the ratings do not benefit the customer service agent comes back obligations may exist which are not Lessons from India’s Rubber Industries Ltd. Prior to that, “Sri Lanka’s already weak from any uplift because the from lunch, in the case of some super mentioned here as they are not required ‘Aadhaar’ he was an Asst. Vice President at economy will take a further banks’ BCAs are already customer-centric banks. There’s also a for the purpose of this discussion. To date, the Unique Identification Nations Trust Bank PLC, heading hit from the widespread at the same level as the plethora of minor technicalities that can However, there is one bank that came Authority of India (UIDAI) has the technology division of its flagship disruption to tourism, sovereign rating. easily prevent you from getting this done up with an innovative way to water generated 1.26 billion Aadhaar numbers FinTech brand FriMi) the sunday morning business 35 Sunday, April 26, 2020 ANALYSIS

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR The deserted Main In late March, Fitch Ratings downgraded Streets in Pettah the UK’s Long-Term Issuer Default Ratings This year, unlike any other, the during curfew (IDRs) to “AA–“ from “AA”. The outlook word “lockdown” has become a PHOTO LALITH PERERA is Negative. The revision has been due to part of the common lexicon, being weakened public finances caused by the endured by about one-third of the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak. world population at the moment On 26 March, the international ratings due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The agency S&P Global warned that the situation in Sri Lanka has been no coronavirus pandemic will push Britain and different, with virtually the entire the euro area into recession this year with population confined to their homes their economies expected to shrink by as much as 2%. for a month, while those in the Despite the lockdown, the British Western Province and a few other Government is planning on several areas suffer even longer. measures to handle the unemployment crisis What’s worse for these citizens is Sri that is raising its head amongst the spread of Lanka has been under curfew instead of Covid-19 within their country. lockdown. Canadian plane manufacturer Bombardier While both measures are intended to is aiming for a return to work at its Belfast prevent gatherings and maintain physical sites in the UK on 4 May, with some (social) distancing, there are differences in operations potentially resuming as early as the level of flexibility and freedom afforded this week. British clothing retailer Next is to citizens. reopening its online business this week. For example, you would only be Furthermore, the British Government is permitted to step out of your home during planning to introduce a traffic light system curfew if you have a curfew pass or an to resume operations despite lockdown. equivalent clearance, while in lockdown, According to the system, schools could start people are permitted to step out of the house returning within three weeks. Meanwhile, to source essentials and even to engage in clothing shops and garden centres could be exercise, as long as physical distancing and among the “non-essential” stores given a other conditions are satisfied. “green light” to reopen with precautions to However, lockdowns and curfews both The economy protect customers. affect the economy, and over the past two Rail services would be brought up to months, the effect on national economies normal levels, with commuters probably has been nothing short of devastating. Yet, urged to wear facemasks. A second “amber” certain countries are looking into ways of stage later in the summer would see more allowing their economies some breathing of the economy revived, with all employees space, so as not to let it collapse completely told to go back to work and some social due to prolonged inactivity and losses. must go on gatherings allowed. The Sunday Morning Business took However, the British Treasury has a detailed look at measures adopted in z predicted it might take years for the British countries under lockdown to keep the How are other nations trying to keep their economies alive? economy to return to normal. economy going, in order to explore the India (NHAI) resumed its toll collection Pacific Economic Update April 2020, stated to work building passenger jets at its Seattle- lessons Sri Lanka could take from their operations from midnight last Sunday (19). that the Vietnamese economy is resilient area plants. Doosan Bobcat announced strategies, in terms of what to do and also Standard Chartered Bank Head of South to external shocks in the first few months the return of about 2,200 workers at three what not to do. Asia Economic Research Anubhuti Sahay of 2020, despite the ongoing turbulence in factories around the state. had told Bloomberg that as the Indian their financial markets. The World Bank The Federal Reserve stated that it will India Government has allowed certain economic further added that Vietnam is strongly buy bonds and mortgage-backed securities Just five days after Sri Lanka imposed activities to operate amidst lockdown, the positioned to benefit from its free trade “in the amounts needed” to keep markets an islandwide curfew, neighbouring India, predicted economic hit might not be as bad agreements that were due to come into working smoothly. with a population of 1.3 billion, announced as initially estimated. force. Meanwhile, 10 US states which were a three-week lockdown on 25 March, which AHK World Business Outlook 2020, responsible for about 38% of economic was later extended to 3 May. This is, by far, Vietnam released by the Association of German output the widest-spread lockdown the world has Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country Chambers of Industry and Commerce, last are co-ordinating plans separately from ever seen in a country, as even the Chinese, best known for its beaches, like Sri Lanka. week, noted that German enterprises are the White House to reopen businesses shut the initial epicentre of the coronavirus, The $ 245 billion economy is the 44th optimistic about the medium-term recovery by the coronavirus. didn’t impose a lockdown of their entire largest in the world in terms of nominal of the Vietnamese economy. However, experts say the US economy is nation. gross domestic product, which is really not unlikely to recover at the speed it plunged German Chancellor Angela Merkel A week into lockdown, the Federation similar to ours, as we are far behind Vietnam due to Covid-19. of Indian Chambers of Commerce and with GDP of only about $ 89 billion. Germany Industry, issuing a release, noted that India Even though Vietnam shares part of its Italy Germany is a Western European could be losing about $ 5.2 billion daily borders with China, it has a very minimal Italy, a European country with a country with a population of about 83 due to the lockdown and 40 million jobs number of infected persons. As such, population of about 60 million and an million. Germany’s GDP stood at $ 3.9 are at risk during the period from April to lockdown was initially imposed on 1 economy worth $ 2 trillion, is among the trillion in 2018. Even though Germany is September. April, where people were still allowed top five countries worst hit by Covid-19; it not affected as badly as the British due to A few days after this, Barclays Research, to leave their homes to buy food. Before has shattered the Italian economy and the Covid-19, it reported 5,500 deaths due to the research platform of Barclays the lockdown, by mid-March, Vietnam lives of people in a way that might take the virus as of Friday (24). Investment Bank, slashed India’s growth banned entry to foreigners, with very few years to recover. Germany imposed lockdown a month forecast to 0.0% from the earlier projection exceptions. On 16 April, several cities came Italy initially imposed a national ago, which is slowly easing at the moment. of 2.5%. It estimated that the economic out of lockdown, while 16 cities, still in US President Donald Trump lockdown on 12 March, at the peak Due to economic activities coming to a cost of the lockdown could be about $ 234 lockdown, were given more leeway in terms of Covid-19 within their territory. The near standstill in the initial few weeks billion, up from the previous estimate of $ of movement. However, for 12 high-risk The US lockdown was further extended into April into lockdown, the German Council of 220 billion. cities, the lockdown was extended into May. The new “epicentre” of the virus – and then slowly extended further until 3 Economic Experts expects a 4.2% slump However, with a view to alleviate the Due to the economic hit triggered by the US – is on top of the worst-affected May. Due to the lockdown, economists in the annual growth rate. Furthermore, crisis in its $ 2.7 trillion-worth economy Covid-19, late last month, the Vietnamese countries list with over 45,000 deaths have forecast a growth rate contraction think tanks predicted over 100,000 job despite the ongoing lockdown, the Central Ministry of Planning and Investment and infected people numbering close to of 2%, while Italy’s Treasury expects the cuts in the German auto industry alone. Government of India issued a guideline predicted that Vietnam’s economic growth a million. The country, with a population economy to contract by 8% this year. However, to keep the economy going permitting the resumption of business rate would slow down to around 6%, from of over 328 million and 50 states, still On 14 April, despite the lockdown, a despite the lockdown, shops with a size in non-hotspot areas. India’s Ministry of 7% last year, if the pandemic is not fully isn’t under nationwide lockdown. Only decree issued by the Italian Prime Minister of up to 800 square metres received Health and Family Affairs has identified 359 contained. a few states and cities are in lockdown gave a list of businesses approval to permission to reopen from 20 April 2020. green zone districts with no Covid-19 cases Meanwhile, the Asian Development Bank and even in most of those cities, people resume operations. Accordingly, Italy The same applied to car dealerships, in the past 28 days and business operations (ADB)’s prediction is that the economic are seen protesting against the lockdown began reopening bookshops and clothes bookshops, and bicycle stores, irrespective in these districts are now permitted. growth rate would slow down to 4.8%. On citing hindrances to their daily lives and stores for young children earlier this month of size. The move is expected to support over 8 April, Fitch Ratings revised their outlook businesses. with strict social distancing guidelines. The Deutsche Bundesbank, the central 450 million informal sector employees on Vietnam’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency It is observed that US President is in Amidst deaths reported in hundreds on a bank of the Federal Republic of Germany, who were financially stranded as they were Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to Stable, from support of these protests as he too isn’t a fan daily basis, design brands in Italy are set in its regular monthly report stated that not allowed to go to work, and also about Positive, and has affirmed the rating at BB. of lockdowns due to the massive impact it to reopen factories and outlets this week Germany would recover slowly after a 800 million people engaged in agricultural As one of the fastest growing economies would have on the US economy – despite while certain factories have already started severe recession. It said: “Substantial activities who were unable to harvest due to of Asia, in response, Vietnam took serious advice to the contrary from health experts manufacturing. restrictions are likely to remain until a restrictions. measures. Vietnam’s Central Bank cut and authorities. The Italian Government was also said medical solution such as a vaccination Accordingly, electricians, IT policy rates by 0.5-1%, and lowered interest However, the pandemic is expected to hit to be preparing a five-point plan on how is available. For this reason, a rapid and repairpersons, carpenters, and plumbers; rate caps on deposits of less than six months the US economy worse than the Eurozone to reopen businesses. Furthermore, Italy strong economic recovery currently seems road construction, aquaculture, harvesting, and on short-term lending to prioritised and China. The Paycheck Protection proposed to the European Commission, unlikely.” fishing, and building projects; and sectors. Programme (PPP), introduced to help under the Temporary Framework, a packaging material production were also Furthermore, Vietnam seems to be businesses keep their workforce employed guarantee scheme for new working capital Global impact granted approval. Furthermore, according attracting Japanese and American companies during the coronavirus crisis, was exhausted and investment loans granted by banks in Despite all these damage-control to India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, and manufacturing facilities that are moving in less than two weeks as $ 349 billion order to support companies affected by the measures by governments, the global restrictions were also lifted on e-commerce out from China, the initial epicentre of the had been claimed by around 1.6 million coronavirus outbreak. The Commission economy is set to bleed unlike it has ever companies, the transportation of goods, and coronavirus outbreak. In early March, the small business owners. Over 22 million approved an Italian aid scheme worth € before. On Thursday (23), Fitch Ratings port and cargo operations. Government unveiled a $ 10.8 million credit Americans have filed unemployment claims 200 million to support the economy in the massively slashed its global growth Last Monday (20), it was reported that relief package of debt restructuring and in a period of just four weeks. context of the coronavirus outbreak. forecast, saying the world economy is set in Uttar Pradesh, 11 industries will restart lowered interest rates and fees. Vietnam also Barclays Capital’s global forecast stated to contract by a hefty 3.9% in 2020. their operations. These include that of steel, managed to increase its exports to China in US economic output could contract by 6.4% Fitch noted that several major fertilisers, cement, paper, garments, tyre, the first quarter of this year. while the Eurozone economies contract economies have extended lockdowns to and chemicals, sugar mills, and refineries. The Ministry of Industry and Trade by 5.5%. Furthermore, it noted that the eight to nine weeks, which is in contrast The same day, the Government further imposed tariffs on exporters of products contraction could lay off 22 million jobs. to the previous estimation of around five eased movement of goods which would originating from China and Indonesia, To facilitate the reopening of businesses weeks. An extra month of lockdown will permit about 1,000 special economic zones ranging from $ 124 per tonne, in order to even in other states, US President Donald reduce the annual flow of income by to become operational. It is notable that in protect locally manufactured products. The Trump has unveiled a guideline, called around 200 basis points, Fitch said. March, India’s exports declined by over tariff would be in effect from 25 March for “Opening Up America Again”, which Fitch published these insights describing 34% due to the lockdown. 120 days. outlines three phases for states to gradually the coronavirus-induced recession as With the easing down of restrictions, Meanwhile, Vietnam eased aggressive ease their lockdowns. “unparalleled”. It said the sharp downward according to the Federation of Indian Export travel restrictions for employees of Samsung Due to continuous pressure from revision is driven by a massive decline in UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson Organisations (FIEO), about 80-85% Electronics. Samsung is one of the top protestors, the Governor of Georgina eased Asian economies, led by China and India, of exporting units in pharmaceuticals, foreign companies in Vietnam, contributing lockdown restrictions in his state, allowing which are slated to post sub-1% growth electronics, and chemicals are likely to about a quarter of the country’s exports. It gyms, hair salons, tattoo parlours, bowling The UK this year. become operational. is learnt that Samsung in Vietnam handles alleys, dine-in restaurants, private social The UK, an economy worth $ 2.8 trillion, “The world GDP is now expected Meanwhile, India’s second largest more than half of their world output. clubs, and even cinemas to open, in addition is also massively hit by Covid-19. The to fall by 3.9% in 2020, a recession of carmaker Hyundai Motor India Ltd. is In addition, last week, Vietnam’s stock to essential services. Texas allowed retail country with a population of over 66 million unprecedented depth in the post-war getting ready to restart its production market was on its path to revival as liquidity businesses to open on 17 April. people recorded about 17,000 coronavirus period,” Fitch Chief Economist Brian operations at its plants. India’s largest airline received huge support in the form of market Boeing and Doosan Bobcat, a US deaths as of early last week. The UK Coulton noted. “This is twice as large as IndiGo is also preparing to start operations confidence along with positive trading of heavy equipment manufacturer, resumed introduced a countrywide lockdown initially the decline anticipated in our early April from next week onwards. Furthermore, global markets. production last Monday. Last week, Boeing on 23 March. It was further extended for forecast and would be twice as severe as the National Highways Authority of The World Bank, in their East Asia and said it was putting about 27,000 people back three weeks in 16 April. the 2009 recession 6 the sunday morning business OUTLOOK Sunday, April 26, 2020

BY UWIN LUGODA normal lives until a vaccine is developed.” The Covid-19 pandemic is now Promotion estimated to put 50 million jobs Top tourism trio outline Kariyawasam stated that in terms of in the global travel and tourism promoting Sri Lanka as a destination, industry at a risk, with travel set to gaining Cabinet approval for the global go down by 25% this year and Asia advertising campaign was a good start, so being the most affected continent, that the industry can be ready when Covid- according to the World Travel and 19 is at its final stages. Tourism Council, which represents He explained that right now, it is a the international tourism industry. bit too early for the country to engage predicament, in promotions since most countries are Statistics from the council site show on lockdown and other tourism-driven that the global tourism industry currently countries like Singapore and New Zealand accounts for 10% of global GDP, having are yet to launch their plans as well. contributed $ 8.8 trillion to the global “At this moment, most of the overseas economy in 2018, and is responsible for tour operators, mainly European tour over 319 million jobs worldwide. operators, are on lockdown, and are working Similar to this, Sri Lanka’s tourism preparation, from home, limiting our capacity to work industry is a major contributor to the with them. I do not think the industry country’s GDP, with its direct contribution will revive in the next eight to 12 months being 4.9% in 2018 according to the Sri because of the crisis in Europe, and the new Lanka Tourism Development Authority way of travelling will have to include health (SLTDA) annual report. Last year, the certificates, so all this will take time.” country saw the arrival of 1.9 million Going forward, the industry will have to tourists, a drop from 2018’s 2.3 million, due prospects look at a new business model to promote Sri to the Easter Sunday attack. Lanka, such as in markets like China and However, now the entire industry and Korea, which can be positive markets in the its different sectors have screeched to a coming months, he shared. halt due to Covid-19, with both local and The world already knows how well international tourists being forced to stay Sri Lanka is handling the pandemic and indoors, curbing any non-essential travel. how effective the country’s preventative The Advocata Institute hosted an online measures are. Therefore, the skills of the discussion, in partnership with The Sunday healthcare staff and the entire sector would Morning Business, in which top tourism instil confidence in future travellers. industry stakeholders detailed the impact of While recovery is likely to take six months Covid-19 on Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, to a year, Ukwatte shared that they are its survival strategy, as well as the prospects receiving tentative bookings from January for revival. 2021 onwards and the industry has adopted a very flexible booking policy where a visitor Predicament can cancel a booking without a penalty any Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour time before the intended arrival. Operators (SLAITO) President Mahen He stated that the sector plans on working Kariyawasam stated that at this moment, with Fernando and the SLTPB to introduce business had hit “ground zero”. attractive early bird offers, and suggested SLAITO currently has a membership of that the Bureau and airlines match with 200 tour agencies, with a combined total of similar discounts. around 4,000 employees. The organisation’s “We believe that we need to plan for at members are responsible for 50-55% of SLAITO President Mahen Kariyawasam SLTDA and SLTPB Chairperson THASL President Sanath Ukwatte least the next five years in order to position tourists that come into Sri Lanka, who spend Kimarli Fernando Sri Lanka as the best island in the world and an average of 10-14 days in the country. Currently, there is a serious supply the number of rooms, when our margins mechanisms in place to ensure their voices I think we have the ingredients to do that.” 90% of the business they bring into the and demand imbalance; 40,000 rooms, are eroding and we have to pay all these are heard, and to create opportunities for the Fernando cited this as a good opportunity country goes towards the formal sector, amounting to 70% of the country’s hotel additional costs.” younger generations moving into tourism to for Sri Lanka to look at increasing its where the members pay taxes such VAT inventory, with another 6,500 additional In addition, Ukwatte stated that once this bring their views forward. connectivity. She explained that there have (Value Addition Tax). rooms in the pipeline, has led to a glut in situation has surpassed and hotels were “Yes, it is very bad right now, but we been discussions at the senior levels of Kariyawasam explained that currently, the market which will only worsen as the ready to reopen, the properties would need need to find a way out, because eventually government to make the country a transit they are financially hit due to the VAT crisis goes on and margins erode further, to be refurbished in order to get them back people will travel and then it becomes a hub for the region, by increasing six-hour concession granted to the tourism explained Ukwatte. to their former standards. question about whether the traveller feels transits to 10 to 12 hours, and giving the industry last year, which is not applicable “Hotels are currently closed due to Speaking from a regulator’s perspective, comfortable with the country and the needed facilities. to destination management companies curfew and social distancing; local events SLTDA and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion accommodation available to them, the “I think we should learn from Singapore (DMCs). He went on to state they have are also shut for the near future. So we are Bureau (SLTPB) Chairperson Kimarli airlines they are travelling in, and finally, and Dubai, where they were initially not appealed to the Government as most of in an environment of zero revenue, which Fernando stated that the SLTDA currently the country’s healthcare system.” promoting their tourism, but their airports their members were affected by the current is unprecedented, since hotels have always has roughly 12,000 registered institutions Sri Lanka will be looked at in a positive for transit passengers and then subsequently, situation and might not be able to pay the been open.” and individuals – from hotels to home light when people want to travel again, used the airport to promote their country for VAT instalment due at the end of the month. The next challenge for the sector lies in stays and tour guides to drivers – currently she shared, due to the proactive way tourism.” However, he stated that there have not managing their human resources during affected by the pandemic. the Government has handled the issue. Global promotion is not a way to fix all been any job cuts as yet, and members have this period, as currently only small teams of The SLTDA is currently working with the Airlines were already working towards the industry’s problems, Fernando opined, been given the option of cutting pay, giving essential staff are kept by hotels to maintain United Nations Development Programme making themselves more appealing to and instead suggested that the stakeholders unpaid leave, and other reduction slabs that plants and machinery, with the rest being (UNDP) to compile a three-stage strategy. travellers while accommodation providers look at their products and services, balance they can adopt to survive. sent home. The first stage is set to understand the were currently creating guidelines, taking sheets, how they operate, and how they can “Due to this situation, we have asked the “Most of the senior management in situation by conducting a situation Singapore as an example, and also the promote themselves. Thanks to technology, Government for soft loans without interest hotels have taken pay cuts, while the assessment, impact assessment, and health guidelines provided to them. The stakeholders can now promote themselves, which can be payable in the next three others are being paid their basic salaries. roadmap. Fernando shared that they have healthcare system has already proved itself and don’t have to wait on the SLTPB or the years. And we are happy with the current As an industry, we have taken hits over the discussed this with all industry stakeholders to the world, she said. SLTDA to solve all their problems. financial packages the Government has past few years, so the companies have no in both the regulated and unregulated “I think we need to look internally, However, she stated that they were offered us. However, there some issues that reserves, and due to zero revenue coming in, sectors. and work on areas such as automation, in fact looking to promote the country need to be tailormade, because most of our the sector is in a financial crisis.” Fernando stated that they also conducted streamlining processes, refraining from and are grateful to the Government for members are SMEs (small and medium- However, having faced war, terrorism, a study which they used to reach out to using the current procurement processes and approving the global advertising campaign sized enterprises) with no collateral.” and a tsunami, Ukwatte is confident in the the International Monetary Fund (IMF), implementing new procurement processes with no amendments. She shared that they Giving the overview of the hotel resilience of the sector. co-ordinated by Bank of Ceylon (BOC) guidelines to do things. So internally, we are currently looking at public relations industry in the current situation, The The Government has introduced and the Treasury, to support those earning have to make a lot of changes and we will (PR) agencies and DMCs to help with Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) moratoriums and working capital loans for salaries of Rs. 40,000 or less in the tourism continue making a lot of changes.” the campaign, and have an international President Sanath Ukwatte shared that their the industry. “It might take six months to a industry registered with the SLTDA. She She stated that this was a good organisation assisting them with research- industry was on the road to recovery from year, but a vaccine will be developed. So at went on to state that she also prepared a opportunity to look at sustainable based marketing, on not just what countries the Easter attack last year, when hotel this point in time, it’s a battle for survival proposal to provide one-off payments for tourism; to advice and work with players to target, but also what types of travellers prices fell by 60% and occupancy fell by and we are grateful for the Government’s tour guides and drivers. demonstrating the need to have a more they want to attract from those markets. 40%. The industry began to recover in the aid to the industry.” resilient system in place due to the industry Fernando also suggested restructuring the latter part of 2019 and continued to recover He also shared that the biggest fixed Recovery being susceptible to manmade disasters, country’s single entry visa to a five-year until 10 March, when the coronavirus cost of the hotel sector is payroll, which Moving forward, all 34 associations in natural disasters, and health crises. visa in order to encourage people to revisit outbreak was at its initial stages. takes up 50% or more of their spending; it the industry, including THASL, SLIATO, Ukwatte stressed on the need to revive Sri Lanka. She also appealed to the rest The hotel sector is the largest investor accounts for salaries, free meals for all staff, drivers’ associations, and regional the industry as soon as it is safe, in order of the industry to aid in this when making and employer in the local tourism industry, uniforms, and other incentive schemes. associations, will have to decide amongst to help maintain the livelihoods of the itineraries for tourists, by not covering all and is also a capital-intensive industry Their second highest cost is energy, which themselves on whether the current thousands of workers employed. He went of Sri Lanka in just seven days and thereby with many fixed costs including payroll, takes up 20-30% of their spending. The fragmented method of representation and on to state that they also need to engage eliminating the need to revisit. Instead, insurance, maintenance, energy, and high hotel industry is also known for having one lobbying is effective or if they would like to with the Government and health services on she asked them to encourage people to debt financing, which require a regular of the highest electricity rates in the country. speak in one voice, shared Fernando. how to bring tourists to the country without go less-visited tourists attractions such as revenue stream. The association has a “Our sector has to consider all of this, and With regards to SMEs, which are endangering the lives of the people. Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, and Jaffna. membership of 240 hotels from around the we are also one of the most highly taxed important to the industry and often go “If we can have proper screening and “We need to encourage tourists to revisit country, comprising some of the biggest and industries in Sri Lanka, so it is difficult to underrepresented on the current boards, testing systems which adhere to strict social the country, instead of making it a country also smaller hotels. survive in a situation where there is a glut in Fernando explained that there has to be distancing protocols, we can restart our they can label as done.”

Consumer retail, construction, hotels hardest hit: Fitch Sri Lankan corporates in consumer economic impact of strict social distancing to a prolonged weakening of the local in cash flows as both state and private (AA-[lka]/Stable), also have exposure goods retail, construction, and hotels requirements. Even sales of essential items exchange rate, because a significant sector construction projects will be likely to other diversified business segments will be among the most affected by the may suffer from supply chain disruptions, portion of inputs are imported and sold to face delays until economic conditions which are more defensive, and/or have coronavirus pandemic in Sri Lanka, said at least in the near term. We currently domestically. stabilise. The Government’s debt to GDP high rating headroom, which mitigates the Fitch Ratings on 22 April. Fitch-rated expect a gradual moderation of the impact The recent negative rating action on levels (which are already high) and lower impact. companies in consumer goods retail and in 3Q and 4Q, provided that the pandemic the two consumer durable retailers Singer revenues stemming from slower economic “We also assessed companies by construction-related activities also have is brought under control with a full (Sri Lanka) PLC (Singer: BBB+[lka]/ activity could leave little fiscal room for examining how close they were to lower rating headroom than in most other recovery in operating cash flow at least Negative) and Abans PLC (BBB+[lka]/ infrastructure development in the next two breaching their issuer-specific negative sectors. The ultimate impact on ratings 12-18 months away,” Fitch noted. Negative) reflects Fitch’s view of the years in our view,” Fitch noted. rating sensitivities prior to the pandemic. over the next one to two years is highly Almost 50% of Fitch-rated Sri Lankan weak demand for nonessential goods in It added that hotels will be one of the Companies with limited rating headroom uncertain and will depend on its eventual corporates operate in sectors that have the current economic environment, and hardest hit sectors, with tourist arrivals to withstand our base-case assumptions spread, the knock-on effects of measures “Moderate” to “High” levels of exposure potential supply disruptions stemming unlikely to resume to pre-pandemic levels or a more prolonged disruption could be introduced to control it, and how long to the effects of the coronavirus outbreak, from a prolonged ban on the importation until the Covid-19 spread is contained subject to negative rating action if we these effects last, Fitch noted. and “Low” or only “Moderate” rating of consumer durables to the country. worldwide. However, Fitch-rated Sri expect rating sensitivities to be breached “Our current base case is that demand headroom to weather a prolonged “We have downgraded Sierra Cables Lankan corporates which are exposed to for a sustained period. Corporates facing for nonessential goods and services downturn. Around 60% of companies PLC (BB[lka]/Rating Watch Negative), as hotels such as Melstacorp PLC (AAA[lka]/ liquidity pressure could also see some will be severely hit in 2Q20, given the have “Moderate” to “High” exposure we expect it will face a prolonged decline Stable) and Hemas Holdings PLC stress on their ratings,” Fitch noted. the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, April 26, 2020 ADAPTABILITY Events industry resigned to sustained hardship before recovery

BY UWIN LUGODA back into business for another four client companies would look for new to six months, making it difficult for ideas and formats post the (recovery The entertainment and event them to plan. from the) outbreak. industry is no stranger to He also pointed out that most Gomes agreed with Wilson and last-minute changes and of the industry’s stakeholders are stated that corporate events go unforeseen circumstances. SMEs (small and medium-sized beyond employees, as they also help These usually range from guest enterprises) and so, most will not the relationship between brands and cancellations to unexpectedly have collateral, making it difficult to their customers and distributors. He long registration lines and sustain their businesses and pay the explained that the challenge lies in technical issues. However, staff. continuing the way they did before, these issues pale in comparison Mobility and budgets as companies would not be looking Another key issue the industry or willing to spend the same way to the current pandemic that is currently facing is the closure they used to before the virus. has upended the $ 1.5 trillion of all venues. Speaking from a He stated that this will also lead global industry, and absolutely venue company’s point of view, to competition within the industry nothing could have prepared John Keells Holdings (JKH) Vice and that it is important companies them for it. President, Cinnamon Hotels and be ready for such competition as Resorts Head of Brand Marketing, well as the opportunities that may Around the world, everything Event companies need to and Cinnamon Life Mall CEO If the situation changes arise. Gomes went on to state that The industry is directly being from private weddings and parties be more competitive to grab Dileep Mudadeniya stated that within the next few months, events like weddings will always impacted due to people being to international conventions and opportunities, especially when the Government has given several the Government will have take place, and so companies should in quarantine and not being festivals have been put on hiatus, the market size is decreasing guidelines to control the spread of to give us a set of guidelines look for opportunities as such to stay able to attend events; they are or have been canceled altogether, and margins are eroding. the virus and come out of it as soon to adhere to the (practise of) afloat. also indirectly impacted due in order to ensure the safety of the Instead of waiting for the as possible. He stated that this has social distancing in order to Gomes also suggested the industry to corporates cutting budgets communities and attendees of these corporates to come to them, led them to close down all event conduct these events until a use this time to be more successful during this tough environment events. event companies need to go to spaces and also stop taking bookings permanent solution is found at what they do by connecting with (situation) and not spending Even Cirque du Soleil, the the corporates and show how for those spaces. JKH Vice President and their corporate clients offering new on events world’s largest contemporary their services can be beneficial “If the situation changes Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts ideas rather than waiting for them to Hemas Pharmaceuticals and circus producer, has cancelled for the corporate within the next few months, the Head of Brand Marketing reach out. Hemas Logistics and Maritime 44 shows following the outbreak Dreamron Group CEO/Director Government will have to give us Dileep Mudadeniya “Event companies need to be more Cluster MD and temporarily laid off 4,679 Kishu Gomes a set of guidelines to adhere to the competitive to grab opportunities, Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson employees, which is 95% of their (practise of) social distancing in people cannot attend the events and especially when the market size is workforce, according to Newsweek. order to conduct these events until the second being that corporates are decreasing and margins are eroding. Event Management Association the industry itself has been active a permanent solution is found. being more financially frugal. Instead of waiting for the corporates people numbering from 100 to 500 A bilingual (Sinhala and English) since the 1980s. However, this will affect the events “The industry is directly being to come to them, event companies and sometimes even reach 1,000. online panel discussion titled According to EMA President such as weddings where the number impacted due to people being in need to go to the corporates and Wijeyaratne suggested that Sri “The Events Industry Needs a Roshan Wijeyaratne, the local of invitees would be less,” he noted. quarantine and not being able show how their services can be Lanka ought to promote this sector Future-forward Mindset to Survive events industry is worth around Rs. According to Dreamron Group to attend events; they are also beneficial for the corporate. I think and use the aid of the events industry Covid-19” took place on 21 April to 30 million, and it directly employs CEO/Director and former Sri Lanka indirectly impacted due to corporates this will help the industry recover to show that we can deliver events discuss the impact Covid-19 on the 25,000 employees with indirect Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) cutting budgets during this tough faster,” he emphasised. of an international standard, having entertainment and events industry employment possibly reaching and Sri Lanka Tourism Development environment (situation) and not Wijeyaratne added to this, stating done so in the past to big brands like in Sri Lanka, with the participation 90,000-100,000. Events industry Authority (SLTDA) Chairman Kishu spending on events,” she elaborated. that another sector the industry Johnson & Johnson and Coca-Cola. of several well-known corporate stakeholders range from big event Gomes, the impact of the virus Be creative, be proactive could look at growing during this “It’s not just the hotel rooms and figures. management companies, digital on the industry is worse than that Looking ahead, Wilson pointed time with the Government’s aid is banquet halls that are needed to The discussion was organised by creative companies, and venues it faced last year due to the tragic out that once the virus is under the MICE (meetings, incentives, attract MICE; we also need to show the Event Management Association to florists, musicians, and even Easter Sunday attacks. control, corporate entities will need conferences, and exhibitions) events event infrastructure such as our event of Sri Lanka (EMA), which was professional dance troupes. Furthemore, speaking from the events industry again, due to sector. management companies, equipment, launched in 2019 following the Wijeyaratne stated that one of the a client’s perspective, Hemas companies being run by people He explained that the events and expertise in the matter.” Easter Sunday attacks with the main issues they are facing right Pharmaceuticals (Pvt.) Ltd. and who require events to celebrate industry together with the local During the forum, the panellist objective of establishing standards now apart from the cancellation of Hemas Logistics and Maritime achievements as well as to motivate tourism industry play a big role in agreed that the events industry will and further developing the industry. events is the time it would take for Cluster Managing Director Kasturi and engage with the workforce. bringing in foreign income to Sri take another four to six months to The EMA is the only official the industry to recover. He explained Chellaraja Wilson stated that the She stated that because of this, Lanka through MICE events, and restart, and urged companies to association representing the events that even after the curfews are lifted, problem the events industry is facing event companies need to be able has been doing so for 20 years. prepare to cater to a post-Covid-19 industry in Sri Lanka, even though the industry would not be able to go is twofold, with the first being that to deliver creative concepts as the These MICE events can bring in world. Pelwatte Dairy adopts Covid prevention measures HNB announces Local dairy processing company as Pelwatte with a shared another enhanced sanitisation Pelwatte Dairy Industries said that entrance. Following a discussion process with a diluted chlorine relief assistance it has taken all the necessary steps between the management of both spray. The lids of the bowsers to ensure that best practices and companies, a common sanitary are also cleaned at the outset. prevention protocols are followed programme was conducted. It is mandatory in the raw milk for cardholders during dairy processing in light As such, the milk bowsers unloading area that the Pelwatte of the current situation. containing the collected milk are Dairy unloading staff use hot Hatton National Bank 2020, for all credit card The company, which has stopped outside the entrance and water and steam clean the lids (HNB) PLC announced payments due from 20 continued with uninterrupted dairy the staff disinfects the bowsers and other parts of the bowsers the implementation of a March 2020 onwards. collection, has been able to ensure by spraying a diluted chlorine that need to be highly hygienic. slew of special support Additionally, interest that the livelihoods of the local solution on the exterior, and The company has taken measures to provide will be waived off fully dairy farmers were not disrupted the drivers have to go through measures to sanitise all entry financial relief to their if the card is settled in during the crisis. As such, the mandatory hand-washing at points and the interiors and cardholders. The bank full on or before 30 April Pelwatte management said it the faucets outside, which were exteriors are routinely sprayed said it had initiated these 2020 and the applicable has taken many steps to ensure built for this specific purpose. with chlorine. The workers can measures to help their interest rebate will be that strict Covid-19 preventive The milk bowsers containing the collected milk are stopped outside After which, they enter a special enter the production floor only valued customers and reflected in the May card the entrance and the staff disinfects the bowsers by spraying a diluted protocols are put in place during chlorine solution on the exterior cubical that allows disinfection after a shower and changing community tide over statements. milk collection and have strongly with diluted ethyl alcohol-based into their work uniform. All this difficult period, so HNB Deputy focused on minimising person-to- limit the spread of Covid-19. The Akmal Wickramanayake. spray. Once inside the factory employees are subjected to a that they could focus General Manager – person contact. dairy sector is a critical industry Measures taken by Pelwatte premises, special units are built recently introduced Covid-19 on other priorities and Retail Banking Sanjay “In the time of crisis as a dairy where extreme precautions are Dairy Industries Ltd. to enhance for the staff to take showers and preventative check at the entrance continue to provide the Wijemanne said: “In industry leader, Pelwatte has put in place to ensure that milk preventative measures after the their clothes are discarded and comprising a body temperature best for their families these particularly trying taken the best possible measures production is continued despite outbreak of Covid-19 included replaced with a fresh set of clothes check and a mandatory and themselves. times, we at HNB want to ensure that we support the any escalation in the coronavirus expediting a joint project with provided by the company. sanitisation process before they As of 1 April, the to play our part in our initiative of the Government of Sri outbreak,” added Pelwatte Dairy Lanka Sugar Company (Pvt.) Once through the entrance, initiate production as well as minimum payment commitment to caring Lanka to effectively address and Industries Managing Director Ltd., as it is in the same complex the milk bowsers go through other operations. on credit cards has for our customers. been reduced by 50% “As their long-term for all HNB credit banking partner, we card holders, valid believe our added until end-September support can help 2020. Accordingly, the alleviate the disruption DFCC Bank provides financial minimum payment will and pressure from the now be 2.5% of the ripple effect of the statement outstanding epidemic. amount and will be “The wellbeing of our concessions as per CBSL guidelines reflected from the customers and clients April 2020 statements is our top priority and In aiding the prevailing situation in the prevent the virus from spreading further. and indirect export-related businesses, for leasing facilities granted up to Rs. 1 onwards. Late payment we hope these measures country, DFCC Bank announced that it However, this scenario has resulted in information technology, plantations, million is to be extended for three months; fees will not be charged will help put their minds has made a decision to provide financial depriving most residents, regardless of and related businesses to be granted an and the concession period for unredeemed for a period of six at ease to focus on concessions to its customers who have social positioning, of their daily incomes. extended relief period of six months; the pawned articles up to 31 March is to be months and will be in other priorities,” added been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, Consequently, in order to release them business sector to be granted working extended for six months. effect till end-September Wijemanne. in accordance with the relief guidelines set of the apparent financial burdens that have capital credit facilities at a reduced interest DFCC Bank customers that consider 2020. Wijemanne went on out by the Sri Lankan Government through arisen, DFCC Bank will provide relevant rate of 4% per annum; credit card payment themselves applicable to the above For customers with to note: “We would like the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). financial concessions in the following due dates extended until 11 May, with a mentioned concessions are to provide new transactions to remind you of HNB’s As a result of the current global health manner with immediate effect: Temporary late payment fee not being charged until formal letters of request to the bank on commencing 24 March digital capabilities that crisis, CBSL has provided a set of guidelines overdrafts, import and export loans, and 30 September; and the minimum credit or before 30 April 2020. Regarding the 2020, a reduced interest empower you to manage to the commercial banks of Sri Lanka to other short-term loans extended until 30 card payment reduced from 5% to 2.5% situation, DFCC Bank CEO Lakshman rate of 15% p.a. will your bank accounts in a assist citizens who have been adversely April; permanent overdraft facilities to until 30 September. Silva commented: “The health and apply on the statement hassle-free and flexible affected. Since the aforementioned global expire on 25 March extended until 30 Furthermore, the repayment period safety of our valued customers is of outstanding amount less manner and urge all pandemic affected Sri Lanka, several September; returned cheque and stop of leasing facilities for three-wheelers, utmost importance to us. We hope that than Rs. 50,000, until our customers to make measures have been initiated by the payment charges not applicable until transport vehicles for school children, the aforementioned concessions would end-June. The bank has use of this safe online Government, such as extended curfews, 30 September; small and medium-sized motorcycles, and taxis will be extended be of extreme benefit to them during this also extended payment banking facility.” for the protection of all Sri Lankans to enterprises (SMEs), tourism, direct until 30 September; the concession period difficult period for the whole country.” due dates to 30 April 8 the sunday morning business TECH Sunday, April 26, 2020 eMarketingEye outlines digital insights for Covid-19-hit ‘IT is not hospitality industry As the world races to curb unprecedented challenge in the the spread of the deadly Covid- form of this Covid-19 pandemic 19 disease, eMarketingEye, the and we must all work together to award-winning digital marketing overcome this. Every individual fine, but agency has taken progressive and organisation can play a part in steps to assist Sri Lanka’s making things better, especially struggling hospitality industry during tough times like these. As by sharing a detailed analysis and a responsible organisation, we strategy paper on the impact of have also extended our support Covid-19 on the industry. to the Government and the people The report titled “Digital of Sri Lanka in different ways. will recover Insights, Trends, and Strategy on We are in the process of offering Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Industry: more complimentary solutions Impact of Covid-19 Outbreak to companies that are in need and Planning for Recovery”, of support during these times, was put together by the experts without charging any setup fees. at eMarketingEye. We are also working on offering IronOne Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd. The rapid spread of the Covid- our clients flexible packages, Co-founder/CEO and BoardPAC (Pvt.) Ltd. CEO Lakmini Wijesundera fastest’ 19 disease across the globe has easing terms and conditions, and resulted in millions being infected providing several other benefits. and thousands succumbing to it. We are ready to offer our support zLakmini Wijesundera on the actual state of ‘corona immune’ industry Economies have been brought to to companies across all industries a standstill and a global recession as most of them need a helping BY UWIN LUGODA stronger in and what kind of modes is imminent as the world hand during these challenging we are going to do. It’s not just a As the deadly Covid-19 pandemic began spreading, its struggles to come to terms with times.” As much as the potential is fancy situation where we put out all the unprecedented impact of this In the face of such difficult economic impact also began to gradually dawn upon every there and everyone has been the marketing material; we have to fast-spreading pandemic. With circumstances, eMarketingEye country the world over, resulting in nearly all the industries neutralised, we have to make get the sales back,” she pointed out. the travel Industry becoming is keeping a positive outlook on and sectors bearing the devastating financial impact of this sure we are careful with our According to Wijesundera, while one of the most severely affected the prospects for the hospitality global health crisis and facing unprecedented danger. Amidst money, efforts, and the limited these possibilities are available, they industries due to the current industry given that the industry this, there is one industry which is mistakenly believed to be resources available have to look after their reputation and pandemic, hotels and travel has demonstrated its resilience immune to the effects of the virus and benefiting from it – the be extremely cautious when reaching companies across the globe on countless occasions in the out to clients. She explained that have faced major operational and past. With the aim of helping the information technology (IT) sector. unlike most retailers, their clients functional setbacks due to various industry recover from this most However, the world-renowned therefore, there has to be someone cannot make a personal call on the lockdowns and travel restrictions recent setback, eMarketingEye’s IT-centric market research firm on the other end ready to obtain their services the industry provides, and imposed by governments across premier destination website International Data Corporation services and pay them. We have to prioritise and instead the IT managers in these the globe. “Truly Sri Lanka”, promoting the (IDC) published a report last week “We have a unit in our company figure out the countries we companies take a lot of precautions The eMarketingEye team island, is offering all local hotels forecasting a decline in overall looking at US retail and we had would be stronger in and what when choosing software service came together during this time of an opportunity to be featured revenue in the global IT industry by projects running for 18 months that kind of modes we are going providers as they do it on behalf of need, to come up with a detailed on the website for free. The up to 3-4%. It says the pandemic is had also been already ordered, but to do. It’s not just a fancy the company. digital insights, trends, and company invites all hospitality set to cut into global IT spending now they have just stopped,” she situation where we put out all Due to this, Wijesundera stated strategy report, which provides brands to register on this website by 2.7% in 2020, as businesses and stressed. the marketing material; we that her company is currently doing recommendations on actions and gain access to a wide range individuals cut their spending to However, Wijesundera added that have to get the sales back things like giving out free work so that can be taken during this of benefits. A “Destination compensate for the economic losses out of all the industries impacted by that the clients can try them out, time of disruption so that hotels Marketing Plan” is to be prepared due to the pandemic and containment the virus, the IT industry would be limited by travel when it came to which ultimately leads to a quicker and travel companies are better to help Sri Lanka’s hospitality consequences. the first to bounce back, purely out international clients. Taking the US decision-making process on their informed and well prepared to industry, and companies who In the Sri Lankan context, this of necessity and its ability to work as an example, she explained how a part. return to business operations once are registered on the Truly Sri point was reiterated by IronOne remotely with just a computer and an SaaS vendor in the US would have “If you buy a product, you the situation is back to normal. Lanka website will benefit from Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd. Co-founder/ internet connection. an easier time approaching clients by have to go through things like When compiling the report, free exposure and listings via CEO and BoardPAC (Pvt.) Ltd. CEO She also stated that the virus has “wine and dining” them, while SaaS vulnerability testing, etc. Therefore, eMarketingEye carried out a all digital marketing activities Lakmini Wijesundera last week at an been a great equaliser for SaaS vendors from other countries would we are counting on them trying out detailed study on the website carried out by it, including SEO online panel discussion conducted by (Software as a Service) companies have to travel all the way to the US these free products and liking the analytics of nearly 100 hotels and (search engine optimisation), BLUE LOTUS 360. around the world, opening up to get the same sort of attention. experience,” she added. resorts in Sri Lanka located in all PPC (pay-per-click), social “It’s a misconception that IT opportunities for the local industry “Since we run on a B2B (business While Wijesundera suggested parts of the country, the digital media, and many more. (industry) is fine, because we are not. to compete with international to business) model, we had to travel that the local industry use this marketing campaigns of which The unveiling of this report There are pockets that are doing okay companies. to certain countries to meet with opportunity, she also suggested that are managed by the company. is the second initiative by the and it will pick up, but IT is also SaaS is a software distribution clients and showcase demos to them. they practise caution, since they have Travel demand for Sri Lanka company to help in efforts affected since most of our clients are model in which a third-party provider So this has been a great equaliser,” to first stabilise their own companies during a period of around 90 days to mitigate the impact of the from sectors like retail and finance,” hosts applications and makes them she added. and do not know when this outbreak was closely monitored using the coronavirus disease. As the first said Wijesundera. available to customers over the However, Wijesundera stated that would end. metrics of website traffic, online signs of the disease emerged in She explained that the global internet. It is one of three main while this opportunity is available “This is a once-in-a-lifetime bookings, revenue, and conversion Sri Lanka, the company jumped industry is impacted as a vendor due categories of cloud computing, to use now, it might end once the opportunity and we might not get it rate, and was compared against into action by launching the to the current lockdown and will take alongside Infrastructure as a Service travel bans are lifted. Therefore, she again. Yet, we must be cautious when the corresponding period of 2019. website “Sri Lanka Stay Safe”, a couple of months to settle down, (IaaS) and Platform as a Service suggested that we focus on which trying to approach it. As much as the Google Trends data was used to which is a comprehensive website depending on the financial impact (PaaS). markets to look at and the strength of potential is there and everyone has analyse and further evaluate the that offers the most up-to-date they have had. Wijesudera further noted that the local industry in order to market been neutralised, we have to make impact on overall travel-related information on Covid-19 in one Wijesundera stated that they are before the virus and its resultant ourselves to international clients. sure we are careful with our money, search behaviour on Google as place, including key topics such part of an ecosystem – a supply chain aviation restrictions, SaaS industries “We have to prioritise and figure efforts, and the limited resources well as the impact of this event as symptoms, prevention, FAQs, in which they are the providers – and in countries like Sri Lanka were out the countries we would be available,” Wijesudera noted. on the Asia-Pacific region and latest news, and updates. Sri Lanka. eMarketingEye is one of One of the key highlights the largest digital marketing of this report is the five-step agencies in Sri Lanka and the approach on areas to focus and only one specialising in the recommendations and actions travel and hospitality industry. to be taken during this time of Established in 2007, the agency 99X Technology combats Covid-19 disruption, so that hotels can has grown to be one of the best come out ready and ahead of in the Asian region over the the game once the situation is past 13 years, having gained back to normal. In addition, a international recognition for its digitally in Sri Lanka and Scandinavia section on the report titled “Do expertise in providing end-to- Your Homework” is dedicated to end digital marketing solutions During the current global with crisis situations. We will be hoteliers, highlighting the digital to the travel and hospitality lockdown, leading Sri providing this free of charge to all marketing activities they can take industry. eMarketingEye offers Lankan product engineering our existing customers.” care of while they are at home. a total range of digital marketing company 99X Technology Tackle’s core functionality includes Expressing his views on services from website design and has harnessed its core the ability to create requirements for the company’s latest initiative development to performance- strength – software product departments and owners on what towards helping the hotel and driven search marketing and engineering – to rapidly they should do to prevent infection travel industry, eMarketingEye social media solutions along with deliver digital solutions to and safeguard services. The tool can CEO Rajitha Dahanayake an array of innovative digital strengthen communities and be used to understand the resources stated: “Sri Lanka is facing an products. available within teams and record organisations globally against updates as these resources are the effects of the Covid-19 consumed. The tool also integrates pandemic. with collaboration tools such as One such solution was created Microsoft Teams and Skype for together with the United Nations screen sharing and obtaining real- Development Programme Sri Lanka time updates. The product already (UNDP), which partnered with 99X has a pre-filled set of instructions Technology to build a Covid-19 relating to Covid-19 management World Health Organisation (WHO) stated: “UNDP is pleased to have was done in just seven days, while which are applicable for most information chatbot on Facebook worked on this very useful and both countries were under lockdown, companies. Messenger, which was delivered in timely bot with 99X Technology. using online collaboration tools. 99X Technology’s quick turnaround 24 hours. The service is available to At a time when we need to counter Sureway AS CEO and Founder in delivering these solutions while all Sri Lankans in Sinhala, Tamil, and misinformation, not only does this Kjetil Odin Johnsen commented: working from home, purely through English languages, giving real-time bot provide Sri Lankans accurate “As the Covid-19 infection began online collaboration with its updates sourced from the Health information in all three languages, to take hold, we compiled a list of partners, has seen the general public Promotion Bureau of Sri Lanka and but also shows the potential of Covid-19 scenarios for municipalities being empowered with important WHO websites. Information shared effective partnerships at a crucial and power companies, which are information about Covid-19 and with the public through it includes time such as this.” our major customer groups. We strengthened companies with need-to- the latest statistics, tips on how to Another solution was the launch distributed these free of charge so know data on business continuity. protect yourself, latest news, answers of “Tackle”, a software product for that our customers could best cope Headquartered in Sri Lanka, to the users’ questions, and more. business continuity relating to Covid- with what is happening now. Based 99X Technology is a product Speaking about this platform, 19. Built by Sureway AS, Norway on the good feedback we received, engineering company co-creating UNDP Sri Lanka Resident and 99X Technology, the entire we thought of developing Tackle as well-engineered, innovative digital Representative Robert Juhkam product design and development an effective solution when dealing products. WHAT’S HAPPENING AT MOUNT LAVINIA BEACH? »SEE PAGE 6

DIGITALISED ART IN THE TIME OF CURFEW »SEE PAGE 3 Sunday,brunch April 26, 2020 ‘IF I WAS WORRIED ABOUT WHAT OTHERS THOUGHT, I WON’T KNOW WHAT IS POSSIBLE’ A chat with Nimmi Harasgama BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE at home, responsibly practising social “Brulee”. Brulee is an EXTRA, in-your- be challenging to prepare material for distancing. The character just resurfaced face parody of Instagram personalities a new platform and audience, as there Nimmi Harasgama’s love for acting in reaction to the need for occupation and and influencer culture. is lots to take on and learn. She had to can be traced way back to her enjoyment. This was ideal as for Nimmi Last year, Nimmi was exploring really look at “this social media circus childhood to the time she spent in not working (or being busy) is something the idea of doing something completely and Instagram influencer lifestyle”. The she absolutely detests. She got to work different, outside her comfort zone in idea of parodying influencers started Sri Lanka training at a drama club. on Auntie Netta, catching her up on the the digital realm. She knew it would off just as an experiment, content-wise, Her acting debut was in Alibaba times and on her niece’s success as an when she was thinking about how to and the Forty Thieves when she influencer. She started by posting Netta’s develop a new character for social media was just 10 years old. Nimmi’s first comeback video on YouTube of her platforms. The popularity and attention lifelong love affair with acting simply making a cup of tea. Following Brulee received was unexpected but “of was cemented and she went on to the overwhelming positive response it course it is fantastic, and I am thrilled pursue a career as an actor. received from viewers, she continued to that she gained so much popularity”, Although she has played numerous make more content. Nimmi shared. iconic roles in Sri Lankan cinematic Netta from a production point of ││Contd. on page 2 (as well as in international productions) view is ideal for masterpieces such as Ira Madiyama quarantine (August Sun) and Akasa Kusum (Flowers times; there of the Sky), most people know and relate is no need To be honest, it to her for her epic comic personas as for makeup is funny when Netta “Auntie Netta” and more recently as the or fancy says ‘I am a bit dippa’ Instagram sensation “Brulee Silva”. effects, because it is somewhat When Lankan audiences finally gave just a bit a way for me to reflect up the hope of ever seeing Auntie Netta of lipstick on how I am also gracing their screens again, she aptly and the feeling defied all odds and made a comeback. notorious wig Nimmi felt this was the right time for is all she needs to Auntie Netta to return – a time when come to life on screen. people need comic relief more than In reference to Netta’s unplanned ever. People need laughter during these reappearance, Nimmi confides: “To be troubled times, when they are cut away honest, it is funny when Netta says ‘I from those they love and removed from am a bit dippa’ because it is somewhat a the comfort of their daily routines. Auntie way for me to reflect on how I am also Netta brings back nostalgia of happier feeling,” adding that “doing Netta, makes me happy, knowing she makes other days and breaks through the morbid PHOTOS curfew silence. people happy”. Speaking about the many characters HESHANI SOTHIRAJ EDDLESTON Nimmi shared how Netta, everyone’s TYMERON HUBAN CARVALHO, @TYMO19 favourite, clueless yet brutally honest Nimmi has portrayed for us, we cannot ignore her most recent and possibly her HAIR AND MAKEUP: HANURSHAN RAJARAJAN, auntie, made a sudden re-appearance, IG: @MAKEUPBYTHANU while she (Nimmi) was quarantined most drastically different character – STYLIST: KOSH HEWAGE, @LE_KOSH

Beetles, scientifically known as broadly spread across rainforests. It also Coleoptera, are members of the largest says that adults are mainly phytophagous Sri Lanka, home order of life on Earth. According to a study (eat plants), whereas the larval stages by McHugh and Liebherr, 2009, they feed on roots or are saproxylic, meaning comprise 25% of all described animals and it feeds off dead and decaying matter, and to four new plants. However, researchers say that this therefore play key roles in the ecosystem is only a fraction of the actual diversity. through wood decomposition and In Sri Lanka, as Prof. Suresh nutrient recycling. For all these reasons, Benjamin who was involved in the the use of the Scarabaeidae group of research says, beetles are part of the beetles is helpful as a tool for evaluating largest animal group. The animal group is biodiversity in tropical forests. of course insects and even within that, the Ranasinghe’s research of course did beetles take up a large portion. not begin with the aim of discovering beetle Our country is home to about 77 the entire new species, but they were led species species of Sericini beetles, out of which to it in the process. The aim of the study 76 are endemic to the island. This was to study the “biodiversity patterns BY BERNADINE RODRIGO numerical value has been established of herbivore scarab chafers of Sri Lanka, Sasanka Ranasinghe aims to obtain her doctorate in as per the study conducted in 2014 by with particular reference on Sericini the field of coleopterology, which is the specific study Fabrizi and Ahrens, where researchers chafers (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)”; of beetles in the field of entomology (the study of collected data through detailed taxonomic that is basically to study the origins and insects). Although Sri Lanka is a country which is no treatment of specimens from Sri Lanka biology of these beetles. deposited in numerous museums and Prof. Benjamin said: “Beetles are an stranger to insects, it is not often we hear about the private collections around the world. extremely important group and probably study of these, unless in cases similar to mosquitoes The importance of beetles has been the most diverse in the island. However, being studied to understand the spread of diseases highlighted many times; Ranasinghe’s as there is no active beetle taxonomist in such as dengue or malaria or of beetles as they are researchers refer to Ritcher, 1958. Here, Sri Lanka, therefore we started this beetle pests in cultivation (e.g. studies such as Gunawardena it is explained that the family of beetles project in early 2019.” and Gunatilake, 1993 and Mayadunnage et al., 2007). known as Scarabaeidae – studied here – is ││Contd. on page 2 Sericini beetle 2 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/CAUSE Sunday, April 26, 2020 ‘IF I WAS WORRIED... Contd. from page 1 the perfect balance of being cheeky After splitting her time between Sri and lovable. Lanka and America for a few years, Nimmi In relation to both Aunty Netta and her family are currently residing in and Brulee, there was one thing we Sri Lanka semi-permanently due to her absolutely had to ask, and that was if commitment with filming The Good Karma Nimmi remains in character when the Hospital, a British production executed by cameras are not rolling. Her reply was: the same group responsible for the hit series “Technically, the rule is, you always Peaky Blinders. stay in character while the camera We spoke to Nimmi about what it is rolling.” However, she said she is like being a South Asian actress and remains in character on set, even if the looking for work abroad, to which she quite camera is not rolling, and generally candidly responded saying how unless you gets into character even before leaving are an A-lister, it is quite an unpredictable the house, adding that there have been profession. It is not like having a typical guests on set who have been cross with nine to five job and there are a limited her as she would remain in character number of roles available. Competition is off camera. She refuses to switch as tough; there are so many brilliant South she wants to maintain the authenticity Asian actresses trying for the same roles, of the role. However, she said the and while there are a lot more opportunities above is only applicable to Brulee and now than in previous times, it is still not Netta. easy. There was a time when she was first When it comes to Brulee and starting out where she was not getting any Netta, “as soon as that wig comes on, I work at all, which was actually how and am her for the rest of the day”. Nimmi when Auntie Netta was first created. then added that “maybe that is because “I wasn’t getting any work and there is so much of them in me”. So YouTube had just started, so I tried out a if you ever go to visit Nimmi on her couple of characters and Auntie Netta was Auntie Netta set, it is unlikely that one of them. Netta became quite popular you will meet Nimmi Harasgama; you in Sri Lanka and also in the UK. After will probably end up having a strange that, she kept posting videos as Netta. She conversation with Auntie Netta herself. did this mainly to build a body of work to On a closing note, as someone share with casting directors. As an actor, who has been involved in highly you have to keep acting – you have to keep acclaimed local cinematic works honing your skills,” she said, and because and who also has exposure in the she kept at it, she was then commissioned to international cinema industry, we write a one woman show and take it to the asked Nimmi her thoughts on whether Edinburgh Film Festival. After that, she was Sri Lanka has improved since she first also offered a chat show on ETV, which is stepped into the professional acting how most of us came to know Auntie Netta. scene here. “I wouldn’t say it has However, Nimmi shared that after the improved, only because that implies success of her YouTube material, she had that it was lacking,” she said, sharing to put Netta to bed because she did get that there are some amazing genre multiple auditions as a result of it and didn’t films being made here. have enough time to dedicate to Netta. Recently, after being on the We asked Nimmi what the reason was judging panel for a Human Rights film for Auntie Netta’s rise to fame according festival titled “Article 14”, she said to her, and she said that she has “no idea”. she saw some amazing short films However, she feels that people like the from across the island. She said that relatability and candour of Netta. Netta is she was very impressed by the quality real; “she is the archetypical auntie, be it of the overall body of work. “There is Sri Lankan, Indian, or English, (and) her undoubtedly a wealth of talent in Sri character is someone people are familiar Lanka, but there is a lack of funding with and can relate to,” she said, adding: for the arts, but that is of course up to “People enjoy her honesty – she says it as it the powers that be,” said Nimmi, and is and she gets away with it because she is continued: “In terms of ability and an auntie.” skill, we are already there.” While most aunties we know tend to practise emotional terrorism and cut to the PHOTOS bone with their scathing comments, all HESHANI SOTHIRAJ EDDLESTON in the name of love and good intentions, HAIR AND MAKEUP: THANURSHAN RAJARAJAN, IG: @MAKEUPBYTHANU thankfully Auntie Netta somehow strikes

Contd. from page 1 March. Beetles were captured using UV- A male beetle’s reproductive organs light traps, to which the beetles would Sri Lanka, home... get attracted and trapped in. These traps This is a collaborative project between They planned to conduct islandwide were placed at a height of approximately the National Institute of Fundamental fieldwork with the aim of collecting fresh one to two metres above the ground and Studies (NIFS), Kandy, Sri Lanka and the material for both morphological (physical positioned at the same spot for two to three Zoological Research Museum Alexander and structural characteristics of the animal) consecutive days and the light would be Koenig (ZFMK), Bonn, Germany. as well as molecular phylogenetic (genetic activated and deactivated through a timer The researchers involved were Dr. characteristics of the animal) studies. from dusk to midnight (6 p.m. to 11 p.m.) Dirk Ahrens of ZFMK and Dr. Jonas They commenced their first field Beetles that were attracted to the light traps Eberle (now in the University of Salzburg, expedition in early 2019. Sampling adult were captured by transparent polystyrene Austria), while Ranasinghe and Prof. beetles in seven different localities in plates (32 cm in width) and then fell into Benjamin work at both the ZFMK and the the Kandy, Matale, Nuwara Eliya, and a container. The captured beetles were NIFS. Rathnapura Districts from February to sorted, identified, and dissected in the lab. This is how they discovered some never- before-seen species amongst the collected individuals. As it can be awfully difficult to simply Light sheet at night ABC is M. galdaththa and DEF is M. cervicornis identify these species with the naked eye, is shaped like antlers, which is even how the the species were primarily identified under The species animal received its name. a Wild M3Z Stereo Microscope. When Selaserica athukoralai was a species was Latin nouns cornu (meaning horn) and it came to the males, their genitalia was found in the Matale District, Riverston, and cervus (meaning deer) gave the basis to dissected, photographed, and then studied. near Thelgamu Oya. Its average elevation to what this beetle shall be called forever. Then, they were able to discover the live in is 509 m. The creature is described as The process of naming the above- differences in the new species. “7 mm long, oval, reddish brown, with shiny mentioned animals is certainly interesting. and glabrous dorsal surface”. The athukoralai was named after The next one, Neoserica dharmapriyai N.P. Athukorala from the NIFS, to was found in the Kegalle District, whom Ranasinghe is extremely grateful Galdaththa, and Aranayake at an average because of the support he gave in the field. elevation of 294 m. Its morphological Then, the dharmapriyai was named after features are described as “7.5 mm long, Ranasinghe’s husband, whom she also In search of places to set the light traps terribly similar to the athukoralai if not thanks greatly. While the mystery of the for the shiny labroclypeus and dull dorsal cervicornis has already been solved, the surface. galdaththana was named after a location in The Maladera galdaththana was found Sri Lanka – a patch of forest on a rock near in the exact same location and elevation Ranasinghe’s hometown. as the dharmapriyai and is “7.4 mm long, This discovery is certainly interesting oval, dark brown, with moderately shiny and also raises awareness on the surprises our labroclypeus and dull dorsal surface, with island of Sri Lanka holds. “Now Sri Lanka fine setae (thin hairs sometimes found on has 81 Sericini beetle species,” Ranasinghe insects)”. stated. “Our first fieldwork revealed The last one was Maladera cervicornis, furthermore the high amount of endemism of which was discovered in the Matale District, the subcontinent and confirmed once again and Pitawala Pathana at the highest elevation how unexplored Sri Lanka is.” of all the four new species – 902 m. The Furthermore, researchers would like to creature’s characteristics include being “7.2 acknowledge the Department of Wildlife mm long, short oval, dark brown, with shiny Conservation and the Department of Forest dorsal surface”. It has a small distinctive Conservation for their co-operation, along feature from the other beetles, which is a with the German Academic Exchange very unique shaping of its male genitalia – it Service (DAAD) for Ranasinghe’s research Daytime fielding Sericini beetle scholarship.

the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, April 26, 2020 ARTS/CAUSE

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE a platform to showcase your potential and talent, and to be able In an increasingly digital to learn and spread knowledge world, art is gradually of your dedicated art is amazing being transferred from in itself and at the same time productive. Artists then have the a physical space to a ability to put themselves out there, virtual one. However, this showcase their skills, get credited, gradual transfer has been and monetarily earn for their accelerated in the past few work which is a great advantage months where the world to their growth and career,” he has been experiencing the said, adding: “Especially during this quarantine (period), artists Covid-19 pandemic which Janaka Ambalampitiya requires us all to maintain and creators alike have more physical distancing thereby opportunities to put out content, leaving us to consume the since most people tend to be majority of our content hooked on social media, and so they can build more exposure for online or in digital form. their projects. So I believe it’s a Particularly with regards to great initiative if handled properly, entertainment and art, content has by good use of productivity, flow been progressively digital even of content, and marketing.” prior to the pandemic. However, The Soul Band Leader and things have taken on a life of its The show guitarist Khazim said: “Personally, own, and mediums of art otherwise we enjoy performing live. From an assume to be unsuited for the artist’s point of view, any type of Saskia Fernando online sphere have also taken to it. art, be it dance, drawing, acting, it An example would be Saskia is meant to be witnessed in person Fernando Gallery’s online live to only be broadcasted live, where where the artist looks to interact open studio which they launched as must go audiences can interact with the with you; that way it is more a part of their Art in Curfew series. performance from their digital insightful. In art, our performance It was essentially a live stream devices. is highly reliant on the atmosphere. where painters and photographers While Korea is capitalising on “However, since there is no would showcase their work online this new wave of entertainment, other way right now, it is great that to an audience, live from their the world will no doubt try to catch we have the opportunity to perform home studio. online up. We spoke to some local artists and provide some kind of solace In this scenario, what we see The digitisation of art in times of crisis about their thoughts on the online to people who feel a certain way are pieces of art that are often consumption of music, especially at home. However, performance Dushanthan Sivananthan displayed in a gallery where live concerts and performances. in its raw form is meant to be enthusiasts would come and to her, your online presence is of consumed online and so you will DNM Crew rapper experienced live in my opinion.” intended; in a live audience – the witness it in real life, for various importance to promote and keep not get the full effect,” he said. Dushanthan Sivananthan shared Playwright and director Feroze energy and performances can only purposes to gauge the piece of art your art alive. While digitally appreciating that for globally massive artists Kamardeen also shared how even truly be captured that way”. for themselves. We also spoke to local artist physical paintings may sound a these are great platforms and they though they themselves made It would seem that we are at a About this concept of online Janaka Ambalampitiya of the bit far-fetched for us right now, are useful even for those who some of their stage productions turning point in digital art history, art, Saskia Fernando said: “It is University of the Visual and online music has been something are starting out. “In my opinion, available online during the curfew, with most content being digitised, important to keep things moving Performing Arts, Colombo who that has been around for decades. the digitisation of art is building “stageplay is best viewed as it was either to be widely consumed and everyone at present happens to shared that to him, as a painter and However, during these pandemic or preserved with most primary be online.” Therefore, according someone who creates physical art, times, musicians have taken it upon materials being put into online digital art is simply not the same. themselves to really step up their collections around the world. He said: “These days everything game by hosting fully digitised While at present, especially is digitised, especially during online concerts; a recent and during our times of physical these times when there is no other popular example is the K-pop band distancing, we may crave live option, you cannot determine if BTS as they broke several online content and the consumption of art it is good or bad; that is not up streaming records last weekend in person, we have been headed to us to decide. However, as an hosting a two-day-long live concert towards majorly consuming artist, I cannot say that this is an for their fans which amassed over digitised material for some time alternative.” 50 million views. now, especially considering “If you think about paintings in Following BTS’s success, applications like YouTube, Vimeo, a gallery, say an oil or watercolour Korean Entertainment Company etc. However, while the schools of painting, it is a complex style with SM Entertainment has announced thought on digital art versus live intricate brushstrokes; it is not the launch of their new programme will remain polarised for some just an image to be photographed “Beyond LIVE”, which is a real- time, it is fortunate that we have or videoed. It must be seen and time platform where the company’s the tools and technology to connect felt. The fact of the matter is that artists will perform on a real art and its intended consumers in it was simply not intended to be stadium, but to an empty audience times such as this.

source. When we decide to keep this hushed, we’re failing our children and it doesn’t end there – they tend to find out for themselves and more often than not, it’s not through reading informative sites and sources, but rather explicit sites and videos that set unrealistic standards and don’t necessarily provide facts. The consequences can get even dire if they were to seek help from a friend or an adult who might potentially exploit them and their innocence. Due to the lack of awareness on topics such as consent and respect, these go unnoticed and Hans Billimoria Paba Deshapriya unreported until the damage is done and biologically, there’s nothing wrong with even irreversible. The topic isn’t a stranger this. We are brought up to be ashamed if “Shhh…” is a our bodies don’t respond in an unrealistic Sri Lankan YouTube talk show for manner that we’ve been preached. This women, co-created by its host is just one of the many problems proper health and relationship education can Shanuki De Alwis and Producer solve. Shifani Reffai, featuring brutally SAYING ‘YES’ If our belief and education system honest conversations on all the puts our children and even those older in things we sweep under the rug danger rather than keeping them safe and informed, maybe it’s time we adjusted and are too afraid to talk about. them for the betterment of everyone. The TO SAYING ‘NO’ conversations never have to be complicated Teach them that everyone is different in either – it’s about communicating the facts how they experience these too. The lack of in a language they understand. education on these areas can lead to self- Consent: Teaching your kids consent esteem issues, bullying, and violence. and everything in between is as easy as asking them how they feel Being safe in general: Teaching about hugging a relative. Letting them teenagers about safety measures doesn’t It doesn’t take a genius to realise that make the choice themselves rather than guarantee that they will go experiment with there’s something wrong with our system you, as a parent or guardian, doing it for it, but it does, to a certain extent, ensure when a 30-minute YouTube talkshow and them and forcing them to do it, teaches that they will be safe if they were to do so. a quick read online can teach you more them that saying no is okay. Why this Teaching them to respect their bodies, and about your anatomy and sexual health than is so important is because most cases of most importantly about consent will help your school did in 13 years. In last week’s abusive relationships and sexual assault them recognise red flags in any of their episode of Shhh, hosted and produced by develop at a later stage in life due to the own relationships or someone else’s. Shanuki De Alwis and Shiffani Reffai, lack of sensitivity and understanding of The idea is for you to be your child’s, topics so casually hushed were laid out on another person’s right to consent. This is no matter how old, go-to person rather than the table and explored freely by the week’s a lesson that can be adjusted for anyone, the internet or elsewhere. The only way to insightful guests Hans Billimoria and Paba considering consent applies to everyone. It normalise this is if we openly talk about it Deshapriya. is never fully grasped but it continues to be and if curriculums expanded on this so our This is a long-overdue topic that needs inevitable things one experiences as they a topic of discussion worldwide. children will be more aware than confused. to the textbooks either, but we’ve shunned to be discussed very openly, and time and navigate through life. Until 2017, the Penal code of Sri Proper education for both kids and adults it so far out that trained teachers skip these time again we’ve seen the magnitude of the The general consensus is that “boys Lanka didn’t recognise marital rape as a would make the situation less harmful and health and relationship lessons due to the problem and the consequences of ignoring will be boys” while girls must remain punishable offence. possibly spark conversations on even more stigma around it or because they don’t it. We’ve decided it’s our cultural norm to “pure, chaste, untouched”. This mindset, Respecting their body and its crucial topics. know the science and facts themselves. avoid it without fully comprehending that while not making sense in an especially changes: Teach your kids about the (Article by Kavindhi Wanigasinghe) Our upbringing is such that we believe we are the ones who have made it a norm, heteronormative society, puts so many changes they will undergo with age so that in what’s been passed down rather than the putting our young ones and even quite old youngsters into a place of shame and as they grow up, they know it’s normal actual facts; for example, a girl is expected Join the conversation! Send in your ones into trouble while doing so. The lack confusion. Why we should educate our to experiment and feel the things they do. of education in school curriculums and children about their bodies, the changes to bleed on her “wedding night” when questions to [email protected] general awareness on sex, sexual health, that happen to them, and respecting their she very well might not bleed at all based relationships, and consent is almost bizarre bodies is because it’s unavoidable, natural, on how her body is built. If we talked Shhh Talkshow @talkabouttaboos Shhh – The Talkshow considering these are very natural and and safer for them to know from a reliable more about this, people will know that 4 the sunday morning brunch SOCIETY Sunday, April 26, 2020

BY SHANELLE BANDARA While the curfew has managed to relatively curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus, it has, on the other hand, raised other issues. The teething issues such as the impact of schools shutting down and companies closing momentarily – or even permanently – and thus BLURRED the economy slowly but gradually collapsing have all raised concerns within the general public. Most people have also been restricted to work from home. Even though things are seemingly at a standstill, life keeps on going as many companies have arranged for their employees to work from home. However, the transition from working in a specific work atmosphere to a homely one can be rather daunting as well as frustrating. I feel like this is the time LINES we have to transform our Improvise, adapt, brands from print to digital or Home front vs. multiplatform overcome StoryWorks (Pvt.) Ltd. Director/ Sharing insights into how the curfew CEO Sampath Dikkumbura has impacted the work life of individuals was MullenLowe Sri Lanka CEO Thayalan concept of working from home as they Bartlett. He elaborated that the company working space generally require physical copies of the he works for is a 125-year-old global brand work. communications company headquartered On a more personal note, Dikkumbura out of the US. added that the curfew was also slightly “The curfew is only a consequence hard for him to adjust to as he is a parent of the situation we are faced with. My of two. According to him, the first five concern is the medium to long-term impact days were rather unproductive as it this epidemic will have on the economy,” was very difficult to concentrate due Bartlett explained, also noting that his to external factors. Although the work company had always had a BCP (business schedule seemed to fall into shambles, continuity plan) in place, which has only Dikkumbura had determinedly made up now been executed. his mind to stick to a schedule thereafter. MullenLowe Sri Lanka has provided Even with this schedule in place, all their staff with broadband connections Dikkumbura still felt as though he was far and computers in order to serve their more productive in an office atmosphere clients in the best way possible. Since due to the nature of his work. face-to-face meetings are out of the This curfew, however, has shed some question, they have resorted to using light unto things he had taken for granted Microsoft Teams extensively for their local as well. For one, the time spent with his meetings. Bartlett went on to say that since kids has become very precious to him, he advertising is a rather physically engaging emphasised. business, it is somewhat difficult to interact online as technology too has its limitations. Despite this, he is extremely happy that his Balancing work team is adapting well to the situation. Although the curfew has challenged and home the work life of Bartlett, he also seems to “I work for one of the leading annual see a positive impact. “The curfew has report producing companies in Sri Lanka. given us time to reflect and reset our lives I started off as a Project Executive and and priorities. I am always a believer that am now the Chief Operating Officer. So, with adversity comes new opportunities while I handle certain accounts, I also and this is one such time. Life has afforded oversee everything else. Basically, my job us a much-needed pit stop to refuel, change entails a lot of co-ordination between the our tires, and look at the road ahead of clients and the agency,” noted L. Perera, us differently. Life will always be a race, briefly explaining her job role. but we will need to run the post-Covid-19 She went on to say that before the (race) responsibly. Eventually, when we curfew, they had a meeting in order get out of this, we will be more responsible to discuss their plans. While they are citizens,” he said on a positive note. not fully functional, they still are to some extent. While the curfew is an In lockdown before inconvenience, Perera stated that as long as they have their computers, Wi-Fi, and the curfew mobile phones, they could work. In order to host meetings with their clients, the With the norm being individuals company uses platforms such as Zoom. travelling to work on a daily basis, there PHOTO DILLON SHOOK ON UNSPLASH This can be troublesome, Perera stated, as are certain people who have been working there are delays in the audio. from home even before the curfew was the negatives where there is a tendency to With regard to work-life balance imposed. Explaining to us how the curfew get lazy and lax when working from home, and the daily chores in the house, Perera has impacted this sort of individual was as you are doing your own thing and there stated that it was a rather tedious task. “I Media Services (Pvt.) Ltd. Marketing are no deadlines. However, Greig felt it currently do not have too much work to Consultant Asha Greig. was overall a positive experience as she got do as I am only handling a few clients. “In my case, I am a marketing to spend more time with her kids. She also However, it is a tad difficult to find the consultant – a marketing and sales person feels that balancing housework and office time to even do that much of work when in other words. I am a person who brings work is much easier when working from you are at home,” Perera added. in ads for the magazine. I was in lockdown home. The curfew has in fact put a halt to even before the (current) lockdown, as her routine. Apart from these negatives, I worked from home. It’s actually a lot however, there are certain positives which like working from the office. In fact, in The employer’s Perera guided us through. For instance, European countries, most people in my she had been able to spend more quality position are encouraged to work from perspective time with her family and relax. home,” Greig said, explaining her current Speaking from an employer’s point of role. view was StoryWorks (Pvt.) Ltd. Director/ Furthermore, she shared that there CEO Sampath Dikkumbura. StoryWorks Child’s play is not much of a difference, except for is an advertising company mainly focusing Divulging the details on how kids minor ones. One of the changes in her on corporate communication as well as a deal with the current situation was Jaimie work schedule was that there were hardly brand studio for a few magazines. Fernando, a student of an international any business calls happening – they were He said that his field of expertise was school. While schools may have shut merely social calls to keep in touch. Unless to give us a bit of context with regard to down momentarily, it seems they the client initiates any sort of business, how working from home has impacted his have got it under control. Fernando there is no business. Due to this, Greig job. I was in lockdown even before informed us that the school has sent in finds herself relatively free. However, this “In terms of business, I feel as though the (current) lockdown, as study packs, set up Google classrooms, had not been the case before the curfew. we are somewhat threatened already as The curfew has given us time and has some online Skype and Zoom Greig uses this free time to engage in I worked from home. It’s the business has been closed for almost to reflect and reset our lives sessions. She found that the measures other activities such as cleaning, cooking, actually a lot like working a month now. As an SME (small and taken were adequate as they keep her gardening, etc. which she had not been medium-sized enterprise), the challenge and priorities. I am always from the office. In fact, in occupied with work and help her get a able to do much before the curfew. Even is that we do not have major capital. It’s a believer that with adversity basic understanding of the studies she has though Grieg works from home, she used European countries, most like a hand-to-mouth existence where you comes new opportunities and missed. to attend certain meetings and on occasions people in my position are receive money and then pay salaries,” he this is one such time When asked whether she puts in more go to office. This has definitely been stated, explaining how the curfew and encouraged to work from home effort when she studies from home, she compromised. Therefore, in lieu of that, the working from home has impacted his field MullenLowe Sri Lanka CEO Media Services (Pvt.) Ltd. said: “It basically depends on what subject company holds conference calls through of expertise. Thayalan Bartlett Marketing Consultant Asha Greig I start doing my work with.” Furthermore, different social media platforms. Company Moreover, he stated that they would she sometimes gets distracted as she tends meetings are not held on a daily basis, have to relook at the way they do business home as it is much more convenient. In they have a meeting with all the staff to get bored and starts interacting with however, as there is hardly anything to talk as it does not seem likely that the curfew terms of the positives of the curfew and members. Google Meet is used as a means the others in the household instead of about in a business perspective. will be lifted anytime soon. “I feel like this working from home, Greig elaborated: of communication in this process. In completing her homework, and thus ends “I feel like there is a lesson to be is the time we have to transform our brands “You are very much free; you do not get addition to this, he explained that as soon up procrastinating. learned from this. People will realise from print to digital or multiplatform,” he involved in office politics, you save a lot of as they got to know that a curfew was to With all these opinions and views that they do not need to be physically in expressed. time in terms of transportation, and you do be imposed, they handed out computers to in place, one can wonder if there is a office and can work from home,” Greig With regard to interaction with not have to spend too much time on your certain essential teams so that they could possibility to see a shift in work styles. candidly stated. She went on to say that staff, such as meetings, Dikkumbura outfits and looks. In essence, you save up a conveniently work from home. Another Perhaps we could be moving into a more her company has even thought of giving explained that they have scheduled daily lot of time.” challenge that had surfaced was that their digitised era, but only time can tell. certain teams the option of working from On the other end of the spectrum are team meetings. Every Friday, however, clients were not ready to embrace the the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, April 26, 2020 HEALTH

BY DR. DINESHANI HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA can present clinical features suggestive of Covid-19. For instance, the commonest According to the World Health symptoms are fever, sore throat, and Organisation (WHO), diagnostic cough. Some patients just have a fever and testing is critical for management, sore throat and even milder symptoms. While having a high index of suspicion, it surveillance of carriers, is important not to ignore other infections understanding the epidemiology, with similar presentations such as dengue, and suppressing the transmission which is likely to come up in May. of Covid-19. Testing is our window Currently, any patient with suspected into the spread of this disease with symptoms is tested. In addition, it is so many unknowns, as it allows crucial to test all close family contacts us to identify infected individuals and individuals living in geographical in the fight to slow down and regions with a high rate of infection. Such reduce its impact globally. It is no community testing is carried out now, and doubt that the spread of the virus a large number of individuals were found has overwhelmed health systems to be positive (e.g. in the Kotahena area). Therefore, aggressive testing should be in many countries and caused carried out in all suspected patients, their widespread social and economic contacts, and those living in high-risk disruption. regions. Hence, testing remains the most Sometimes, if the individuals have had powerful tool in curbing the spread of an asymptomatic infection and recovered, the pandemic. However, there should if you do a PCR, it would not be picked The Centre for Dengue be a strategic deployment of testing to up. However, they could have spread the Research at USJ had been utilise available resources cost-effectively, infection while they had the virus in the working on dengue and other especially in a low to middle-income respiratory secretions. Therefore, antibody flaviviruses for a very long time. country like Sri Lanka. In light of this, detection by carrying out ELISA (enzyme- Hence, all her staff consisting we spoke to Prof. Neelika Malavige, linked immunosorbent assay) for SARS- of postdoctoral scientists, Director of Centre for Dengue Research CoV2-specific IgM and IgG is very helpful Ph.D. students, and research at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura Testing strategy for in such situations and for community assistants are well conversant (USJ), which is one of the recommended screening. Many countries use the ELISA Covid-19 testing laboratories in Sri Lanka. method to detect these antibodies in with these techniques contact tracing and to find out the extent of and Prof. Malavige has established strong Why is a testing strategy needed? infection in a community. ties both locally and internationally, Owing to the highly infectious nature When asked about how testing will including with Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama of Covid-19 and its associated high evolve globally and locally, Prof. Malavige and others at the National Institute for mortality rate in vulnerable groups of Covid-19 stated that it is unlikely the infection Infectious Diseases (IDH) as well as individuals, we need to identify infected is going to go away in a month or two. universities such as the University of individuals very early on to isolate them. in Sri Lanka Unfortunately, it appears to be here to Oxford, the University of North Carolina at Also, contact tracing is crucial to curb stay with us, unless we can get rid of it by Chapel Hill in the US, Duke-NUS Medical the spread. In order to contain such an achieving herd immunity by immunisation. School in Singapore, and Victorian epidemic, it is vital to have a well-planned of some parts of economic and social life. symptoms. Therefore, these rapid antibody Until a vaccine is available, we will have This should be prioritised by carefully tests have no value in early case detection. Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory testing strategy. to go forward with aggressive (VIDRL) in Melbourne. As a testament to According to the WHO situation balancing socioeconomic benefit and Negative test results in the testing. epidemiological risk, as the premature early phase of the disease may her tireless contribution, Prof. Malavige report, 2,471 136 confirmed cases were When asked about her was appointed to the Executive Committee reported globally as of 22 April, with lifting of physical distancing measures is provide false assurance. experience in starting testing likely to lead to an uncontrolled resurgence Hence, it could be of the International Society for Infectious 169,006 deaths. Since they notified the at USJ, she said that the Centre Diseases (ISID) on 10 March 2020. first cases of what we now call Covid-19, in Covid-19 transmission, propagating an tempting to relax control for Dengue Research at USJ amplified second wave of cases. measures such as self- Finally, she urged the public not their strategic plan has seen significant had been working on dengue to take this lightly. You have to be modifications as the epidemic curve is still isolation by contacts which and other flaviviruses for a Current testing methods can contribute to aggravating responsible for yourself by protecting showing an upward trend. very long time. Hence, all her yourself and also by being a responsible recommended in SL community transmission. staff consisting of postdoctoral Community-based PCR citizen at this juncture. We need a The WHO and all global infectious scientists, Ph.D. students, collective effort to fight this pandemic, and disease organisations recommend PCR testing is gaining momentum and research assistants are in most countries. The usual each citizen plays a role in this modern-day assay as the test for the identification of well conversant with these saga. We can fight this together! Covid-19. The detection rate by PCR recommendations are samples techniques, as real-time PCR ranges from 60-90%. It can be as high taken from nasopharyngeal for viral detection, gene About the writer as 90% in freshly collected samples swabs or sputum of patients. Prof. Neelika Malavige expression, cell culture, virus The writer, if transported early on, and it varies A sputum sample is preferred isolation, and propagation, Dr. Dineshani depending on specimen type, collection in those who can produce sputum. These neutralisation, and cytokine assays are Hettiarachchi method, and possible sample collector/ samples are collected and sent under strict routinely carried out. Their dedication, Sirisena, is a family The epidemic curve of confirmed Covid-19 cases investigator variability, stated Prof. guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health. by date of report and WHO region (22 April 2020) enthusiasm, and level of skill are physician with a Malavige. praiseworthy. special interest in rare One of the main insights gained Although there are IgM and IgG rapid Key insights into testing in SL She also gave special thanks to her genetic diseases and thus far is that the faster all cases are detection and POC (point of care) assays According to Prof. Malavige, one colleague Dr. Chandima Jeewandara regenerative medicine found, tested, and isolated, the harder available, they are of limited use and are important aspect is to test everyone with for his instrumental role in setting up currently working we make it for this virus to spread. This not recommended. This is because the suspected symptoms. In other words, it is the laboratory facilities with the help as a lecturer at the Department of principle will save lives and mitigate majority of patients develop antibodies in to have a low threshold for testing. This of the Dean and the Vice Chancellor. Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University the economic impact of the pandemic. detectable levels to the Covid-19 infection decision should be taken by the medical Collaborative research, especially in a of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Countries are at different stages of the usually 10 days or more after the onset of personnel treating patients. Many patients pandemic, can have widespread benefits outbreak. Early action and implementation of comprehensive public health measures such as rapid case identification, rapid testing, isolation of cases, comprehensive contact tracing, and quarantine of contacts has been the current strategy in Sri Lanka. However, the relaxation of strict social/ physical distancing measures is threatening community transmission making it harder to contain the transmission and bring outbreaks under control through contact tracing. Thus far, we have been able to deliver quality clinical care and reduce secondary mortality without compromising the healthcare system. However, we will now have to look at a plan for a phased transition, whilst enabling the resumption Lab pictures with staff

ÄÄ Dear Mayo Clinic, I’m five months pregnant thyroid disorder often leads to in a disorder known as from appearing. and was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism. hypothyroidism, a condition postpartum thyroiditis after You also should work I’ve never had thyroid problems before. caused by low levels of pregnancy. This disorder can with your healthcare provider Could this diagnosis be connected to my thyroid hormones in the body. lead to hypothyroidism or to establish a timeline for pregnancy? Will hypothyroidism go away Some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which is a follow-up care to check your hypothyroidism can be hard to condition caused by high levels thyroid function over time, after I have my baby? spot during pregnancy because of thyroid hormones in the even if you don’t have any It’s likely that the which your body uses fats and they mimic signs of pregnancy, body. Hyperthyroidism after additional pregnancies. Some hypothyroidism was triggered carbohydrates, help control such as weight gain, fatigue, pregnancy often resolves on research has found that women by your pregnancy, but the your body temperature, and constipation. Other its own without treatment. If who have a thyroid disorder underlying cause of the influence your heart rate, and symptoms of hypothyroidism hypothyroidism develops after that triggers symptoms during condition probably isn’t the help regulate the production of that may be more obvious childbirth, however, treatment and after pregnancy are also pregnancy itself. Some women proteins. during pregnancy include typically is needed for about at risk for developing other have a thyroid disorder that Research has shown that increased sensitivity to cold, six to 12 months. It usually can thyroid problems later in life. doesn’t show any symptoms about 10% of young women dry skin, a puffy face, muscle be discontinued after that. Regularly scheduled check- until they become pregnant. have a thyroid disorder that, weakness, hoarseness, joint Keep in mind, though, ups can catch any additional Once symptoms appear, it’s although doesn’t cause any pain or stiffness, and difficulty that even when treatment thyroid dysfunction when it’s important to receive treatment problems before pregnancy, with concentration or memory. successfully eliminates still in the early stages and and continue to receive follow- flares up and produces For someone in your hypothyroidism in a case like more easily treated. Thyroid up care for six to nine months symptoms during pregnancy. situation, treatment for yours, the underlying thyroid Robert Smallridge, MD, after the baby is born. You’ll Women who have a thyroid hypothyroidism with thyroid disorder remains. That means Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, also need periodic check-ups disorder are often found to hormone (levothyroxine) is if you get pregnant again, the Jacksonville, Fla. after that to monitor your have high concentrations crucial because untreated likelihood is high that you (Mayo Clinic Q&A is disorder thyroid function, especially if of anti-thyroid antibodies hypothyroidism can affect fetal will develop hypothyroidism an educational resource you become pregnant again. in their bodies, a condition development and maternal again – no matter how much and doesn’t replace Your thyroid is a small, known as chronic thyroiditis, health during pregnancy. time elapses between your regular medical care. may not show butterfly-shaped gland at Hashimoto’s disease, or You’ll need to be carefully pregnancies. Knowing that Email a question to the base of the front of your autoimmune thyroid disease. monitored throughout your ahead of time enables you [email protected]. symptoms until neck. The hormones that After childbirth, the antibody pregnancy, including blood and your healthcare provider For more information, visit the thyroid gland makes – level usually increases and tests to check your thyroid to work together to decide www.mayoclinic.org) triiodothyronine, or T3, and may lead to temporary altered function every four to eight on a treatment plan. When © 2020 MAYO FOUNDATION FOR thyroxine, or T4 – affect all thyroid function. This may also pregnancy weeks. treatment begins early in MEDICAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH. aspects of your metabolism. occur during pregnancy. In some women, this pregnancy, it often can prevent DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT They maintain the rate at As in your case, this condition also results symptoms of hypothyroidism AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 6 the sunday morning brunch ENVIRONMENT Sunday, April 26, 2020 WHAT’S HAPPENING at Mount Lavinia Beach? BY JITHENDRI GOMES that contributed to these severe floods. permits and taking collective decisions,” coastline, and that it has been declared the However, the Department of Irrigation and Amarasinghe noted. default site for all similar projects, starting Pictures of the Mount Lavinia beach other entities thought that this 90-degree turn “An EIA was not conducted in terms of from when they started to restore the stretch being filled up took social media by was the contributor to the severity of these filling sand for the restoration of the three Unawatuna Beach a few years back. He storm last week. Many were confused and floods. The solution therefore was to get beaches (Calido, Angulana, and Mount said: “Back in 2015, the CEA did conduct an unaware that such a thing was being done. rid of the bend and make a path for Lavinia). And I do highly recommend EIA for this sand borrowing site. However, We can safely say that it is the most popular the river to end up via a straight path that one must be done, as it will an EIA is not required for where we are beach in Colombo, attracting thousands to the sea, preventing the backward have some sort of effect on the currently filling and restoring the coastlines. of people on a daily basis, therefore the pressure of the water. And it environment,” he said. filling up of the beach resulted in inquiries backfired, according to Wijesingha. However, he confirmed that pouring in. We embarked on the journey to “The bends and the natural when it comes to the sea and the formation of this river were there Calido Beach coastline, the authority does not find out what caused the action of restoring Kalutara the beach, as well as the environmental to ensure that the water flows lie with them. “Currently, we implications if such a project was not slowly to the ocean without are only in control of the water done correctly, without adequate scientific causing much harm, erosion, bodies located internally in the studying. and riverbank degradation. These country,” he noted. Rainforest Protectors of Sri Lanka factors need to be considered We also approached MEPA Convener Jayantha Wijesingha, a passionate as well. By just focusing on the General Manager Dr. P.B. Terney environmental conservationist, was able to floods, they overlooked all the other Pradeep Kumara, who is also walk us through this project that took all of consequences it could cause thereafter. the former Department Head of us by surprise. The fact that the authorities also narrowed Oceanography and Marine Geology at the “There are few concerns with those down the cause of the floods to this reason University of Ruhuna. He also emphasised living around the area posting pictures of the only, is a huge failure. The natural formation the importance of conducting an EIA before Extracting sand and not maintaining Mount Lavinia beach being filled up. The of the Kalu River is something that has been the project was launched and questioned as the required buffer zone can have a main problem is that no one really seems to there for thousands of years and human to why such a project was being done at the negative impact on the coastline and mentioned before, the sand being dug up know what is going on including the people, intervention was not required for it to be Mount Lavinia Beach, which is very much the sea. If the sand does get deposited to restore the shore is happening very close hoteliers, and the fishermen community fixed,” he noted. protected by the reefs like the majority of the and is retained in the coral reefs, it can to the shore as well. With Kalu River not close by. The transparency is questionable,” Colombo coastline. have some short-term effects that may or bringing in much sand to the sea due to sand he said. Misinterpretations “MEPA’s focus lies mostly with may not cause a long-term issue In fact, what they should have been mining happening inland in the Ritigala, protecting the ecosystems of the sea and MEPA General Manager looking at, according to Wijesingha, is why Ratnapura, and Kalutara areas, coastal reducing the pollution that takes place, Dr. P.B. Terney Pradeep Kumara the water was not being absorbed by the erosion is the only solution. This is being especially with ship movement along the river, like it used to be. He further explained experienced now along the coastline. Thus, coast. However, extracting sand and not “Sand erosion is a problem faced and that this could be attributed to various factors the authorities have launched a phase of the maintaining the required buffer zone can accepted by the world. In the past, we have such as improper development projects, project which is to restore the Angulana- have a negative impact on the coastline and placed rock boulders as a temporary solution excessive mining, filling of the river, river Mount Lavinia stretch.” the sea. If the sand does get deposited and for it. But it is proven that sand filling is the buffers not being maintained, monocultures is retained in the coral reefs, it can have best solution for it.” The project is to source like tea and palm not having the ability to The lack of an EIA some short-term effects that may or may 300,000 cubic metres of sand for Kalutara, absorb water, lack of canopy covers and As a conservationist, Wijesingha’s not cause a long-term issue. I am unaware if 350,000 for Angulana, and 150,000 for underbrush, etc. These reasons contributed appeal was for an environmental impact these requirements are being met.” He also Mount Lavinia, he added. to mud deposits in the river and a lack of assessment (EIA) to be done before confirmed that the MEPA is not involved in “There are also many accusations sand cover to absorb the water, which also in implementing such a large-scale project. this particular project as their focus area is regarding the project being continued during turn affected the underground water grid. This assessment, once completed, is different to coastal restoration. the curfew. However, we have been granted The Government has decided to restore “All of these factors also contribute supposed to be made accessible to the We also spoke with CCD Director special permission from the President and Calido Beach altogether; the project to increase the depth of the river, thus public. He stated that to his knowledge, an General Prabath Chandrakeerthi, who the Government, as pausing the project will that initially cost millions in taxpayers’ increasing the salinity of the water. By EIA was not done in this case, which would confirmed that this project is under their cost us immensely at a rate of Rs. 200,000 money. The short-sighted decision controlling the mining activities, this have revealed most of the issues currently purview. “The project was passed by the per hour,” he noted. taken proved to be extremely costly problem could have been avoided to a great being faced. “We are not faulting any and all Government and Cabinet on 14 January All this leaves us with many doubts, leaving aside all the environmental extent,” Wijesingha stated. projects undertaken by the Government. We 2020, commissioning Rs. 890 million for its but one stands out among the rest. Will implications “The District Development Committee, are only asking them to follow the law and implementation and completion based on an our beloved Mount Lavinia Beach look Rainforest Protectors of Sri Lanka under the patronage of the President at the the protocol of the EIA which will answer a expert report submitted by the CCD. very different when we visit it once the Convener Jayantha Wijesingha time, had advised against this project being lot of our questions,” he said. “It is of three parts focusing on the lockdown is lifted? More importantly, will conducted without a proper environmental We approached Central Calido, Angualana, and Mount Lavinia the restoration reinforce it or further degrade The focus behind the restoration evaluation being done. Nevertheless, the Environmental Authority (CEA) beaches and as of today, we have completed it? We will only be able to find out down the project was launched without a proper Chairman Siripala Amarasinghe regarding work at the Calido and Angulana beaches. line. Projects, as he explained, are supposed an EIA being done for this project. to be carried out with certain objectives in evaluation,” he added. We have started work at Mount Lavinia “Earlier, the CEA, the MEPA (Marine Beach and the whole project is to mind; to solve an existing problem, while Calido Beach was cut through Environment Protection Authority), being focused on development work. be completed by 30 April 2020,” This resulted in a number of issues and the CCD (Coast Conservation Chandrakeerthi noted. This particular one is supposedly focused according to Wijesingha, who listed them as Department) functioned as independent on beach nourishment from Angulana to He also added that this the following: entities. But under the current project was initiated as a result Mount Lavinia. The initial rationale was to yy The sea waves are hitting the shores Government, we were combined and we restore the degraded Calido Beach, and this of the floods experienced in directly and it is contributing towards act as one body, especially when issuing the Kalutara District in 2017 restoration is also a part of that. The entire the degradation of the rest of the beach project itself was approved by the previous and the difficulties faced by because of the force of the water, the fishing community, the Government under a massive price tag. resulting in sand erosion What has brought so much suspicion and tourism and hotel industry, focus to this project is how they are pumping yy With beach water now travelling and also those living around out sand in order to do the restoration. upstream, there is an increase in the these three areas. Although it is supposed to be done at deep salinity of the water. The implications He further stated that sea, the ships that are pumping out the sand of this are faced especially during the the sand borrowing for do not seem to be too far away from the drought periods, when people depend on this project is done at shore, according to the pictures, Wijesingha the river for fresh water the Ratmalana Beach, further explained. 2-6 km away from the yy The river water now falls straight into The reason behind the restoration the sea. The elimination of this curve has of Calido Beach increased the flowing speed of the water As this project is a result of restoring yy As a result of this project, other coastal Calido Beach, it is important to understand areas faced erosion as well why that project was deemed necessary. “As a result of these factors, the Calido Beach is a natural formation, Government has decided to restore Calido sand barrier, and reef. It had a flourishing Beach altogether; the project that initially ecosystem with a wide growth of kadolana cost Rs. 890 million in taxpayers’ money. (mangroves) which acted as a sand barrier The short-sighted decision taken proved and protected the beach connected to the to be extremely costly leaving aside all the estuary. It assisted the fishing community environmental implications,” Wijesingha and the ecotourism of the area greatly. It stressed. assisted in both scenarios; where the water from the Kalu River hit the sea at a fast Nature will always take its course speed and the sea waves hit the land with a “When the formation of a country is force, reducing the velocity and the speed. changed, nature will take its course to restore Historically, as explained by or destroy. This can be proven scientifically Wijesingha, like any other river, Kalu River or with native knowledge. Sand from higher also brought sand from inland to the sea elevations was drawn to replace what was which then gets deposited. It is a natural lost. For example, if you dig sand from a process that happens over a long period of two-metre depth at sea, to fill the hole, the time. In this case, it gets deposited at Calido sea will draw in sand from the shoreline and Beach and travels towards the northern part not the deeper levels of the sea. If one metric of the country through Panadura, Ratmalana, tonne of sand for the Port City project was Mount Lavinia, Colombo, Uswetakeiyawa, dug up from the Uswetakeiyawa Beach, it and towards Negombo. This is the natural would get refilled from the coastal shore sand current and movement in the sea. This line; with the Calido Beach, that is exactly sand that travels is vital in sustaining the what we are witnessing currently, with sand Calido Beach. The Kalu River makes almost erosion along the coastal line,” he further a 90-degree turn before reaching the estuary, explained. helping this collection of sand at the beach itself. How we ended up at The deadly 2017 floods Mount Lavinia Beach Wijesingha continued: “With Mount During the 2017 floods, during which Lavinia Beach, we haven’t experienced so we also lost lives, the Kalutara District was much erosion because of the natural reefs greatly affected. There were many reasons that block the waves to a great extent, and as the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, April 26, 2020 GAMES/TOONS

4 Check additions 54 Important Kenya export SOLUTION FOR 12 APRIL 5 Boils 56 Flight safety org. 6 Syst. with hand signals 61 *Dish commonly made Crossword 7 *”Landslide” group with cod CROSSWORD CLUES 49 Down in the dumps 86 Musk in the news 8 Search through hastily 62 Proofreaders’ proofs 50 Style of earrings 87 Dre protégé 9 Selecting 65 Pseudonym letters Across 51 Kylo in “The Rise of 88 Gp. that looks to the 10 Numismatist’s prize 66 One of the Marx Brothers 1 Features of many beds Skywalker” stars? 11 Basking goals 68 Where stars are honored: 6 Curly coif 52 Commonly misplaced 89 Soul mate, with “the” 12 Big engine sound Abbr. 10 Evite request camera part 90 Salon colors 13 *Revere 69 “Ditto” 14 Like half a towel set 53 Run, as a museum 91 Pub flier 14 Take down 70 Kat’s sister in “The Hunger 18 Cliff dwelling 55 Sees 92 Dog 15 *Nissan Leaf, e.g. Games” 19 Place at the pier 57 Features of many 48- 94 Reps’ pitches 16 Jewelry-inspired pop 72 Novelist Deighton 20 World’s smallest island Down 96 Peels out nickname 75 Verizon bundle nation 58 Celeb, say 99 Have humble pie 17 Lustrous fabric 76 Long time span 21 Lamb pen name 59 Dojo instructor 101 Side dish piece 20 Happy eating word 78 Fancy cake feature 22 *Rejects, in a way 60 Visibility reducer 104 Taken in 23 Swedish auto 79 Felino doméstico 24 “... but maybe I’m wrong” 61 Enemy 105 Chinese gambling mecca 32 NYC or London area 82 Digital sound? 25 Took off 62 Comes together 107 Informal rejection 33 President’s protector ... 83 Ballet garb 26 Rest, in Rioja 63 Rise to an exalted level, as 108 Dish and a hint to the circled 85 Discomfiting look 27 Nutmeg State Ivy Leaguer spirits 110 Scores letters 88 Add zest to 28 Social media movement 64 Early Southwestern 112 Bitter 35 Captain America 90 Dear Abbey for many? since 2017 natives around the Virgin 113 *Journeys that aren’t fun portrayer 93 Emotional problem 29 Movie SFX River 115 Christchurch native Chris 95 Bubbly brand 30 Fashion monogram 67 Persian for “king” 116 Lands like a rock 36 Waters 96 Unreliable 31 Speeds up 69 Rode teacups, say 117 Like some inappropriate 37 Quisling’s crime 97 __ al Ghul: daughter of a 34 Carolina quarterback with 71 Inc. relative comments 39 “__ bien!” Batman enemy a Heisman Trophy 73 Squeezes (out) 118 Navel variety 41 Idea 98 Salsa holder 37 Kneeling quarterback 74 “Fiddler” toasting song 119 Pull hard 42 *Inverts 100 Bleachers’ dig Tim with a Heisman 77 Dadaist Jean 120 “My bad!” 44 “Rappa Ternt Sanga” 101 Crunchy snack Trophy 78 __ the line 121 Combat vet’s affliction artist 102 Adjust on a lapel, perhaps 38 Mount 79 Chart with lines 122 Highlighter hues 47 Stick, as a landing 103 Ayes 40 State to be true 80 Largest U.S. federation of 48 Phone downloads 106 Birthing room docs 41 Part of CDC: Abbr. unions Down 49 Former NCAA football 109 Loyal 43 How some like it? 81 Aerospace task 1 Fresh ranking sys. 111 __Tok: video sharing 45 NFL sportscaster 83 Head, for short 2 Narnia creator C.S. 50 *Farmers’ market find service Collinsworth 84 Cloud of gloom 3 Disney mermaid 52 Vientiane people 114 HDTV choice 46 Green film on bronze NOTICE Please note that the e-paper editions are not going to have winners. We will resume selecting winners once the paper is printed again.

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Agency. All (Answers next week) rights reserved. 8 the sunday morning brunch HISTORY/EVENTS Sunday, April 26, 2020 Quantum Fitness HISTORICAL HOMES IN encourages SRI LANKA stay-at-home fitness Sri Lanka’s pioneering fitness equipment supplier Quantum Fitness is encouraging its loyal customers and all Sri Lankans to stay indoors and still stay fit during these troubled times. As Sri Lanka goes through mandatory work-from-home to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus in the nation, Quantum is also using its social media networks to promote fitness and wellness tips. An archived image of Saifee Villa “At a time when not just Sri Lanka but the entire world is fighting a pandemic, we wanted to do everything possible to help Lakshmigiri was later sold to Adamjee fight the spread of Covid-19. This is why we soon hope to obtain Lukmanjee in 1923 after the de Soysa the necessary approvals to deliver exercise equipment to customers’ family ran into some financial troubles. doorsteps so that they can continue staying fit from the comfort of Lukmanjee is the great great grandfather their homes,” said Quantum Fitness Chairman Nomal Wijeyaratne. of the current owners of the astonishing Quantum Fitness has taken all the necessary steps to ensure mansion. During World War II, the Royal that delivery and handling is carried out in the safest manner with Air Force had stationed themselves at the staff gloved and masked during packing, delivery, and installation. Colombo Racecourse Airstrip and adjoining Furthermore, customers can also follow Quantum’s social media it, Lakshmigiri was requisitioned by the channels for daily tips on stay-at-home exercises and healthy living. British Army for the Royal Airforce Officers’ Quantum’s in-house medical professional, Dr. Shamini Mess. Unfortunately, this time allowed for the Sinnathamby, is also providing clients with nutrition ransacking of many valuable ornaments and recommendations recommended by the Sri Lanka Medical The Saifee antiques. It also happens to be that in 1972, Nutrition Association (SLMNA). Villa grounds under the Land Reform Act, large portions of “The dietary requirements to help boost your immune system the lands surrounding the house were seized by are not difficult to find in Sri Lanka. Most of our fruits are rich in the Government, so what remains today is only vitamin C and the likes of guava and papaya are readily available. a fraction of what it used to be. Also to stay hydrated, you can substitute water for unsweetened The name of the house changed in 1979 beverages like king coconut, coriander, and light plain tea, which from Lakshmigiri to what it is now known are also very common in Sri Lankan households,” she noted. as Saifee Villa. The name of the house was Apart from dietary practices, the key to fighting Covid-19 is derived from the last name of His Holiness adopting the proper techniques of 20 seconds of hand washing, Syedna Taher Saifuddin, the Head of the specifically before preparation of food, before and after eating, after Saifee Villa Dawoodi Bohra Community, who stayed at going out and coming back into your homes, and after using the (previously Lakshmigiri) this house on all his visits to Sri Lanka with his bathroom. Using a disinfectant soap and alcohol-based sanitiser family. is also a must. Sticking to home-cooked meals, getting adequate Saifee Villa continues to be the official BY MAHIKA PANDITHA inspired the designer of the Egyptian Museum rest and sleep, maintaining mental health, and creating a positive in Cairo who had apparently almost installed residence and reception venue for the current Head atmosphere at your home are also imperative during quarantine and duplicate gates at the entrance! of the Dawoodi Bohra Community, His Holiness lockdown, she added. There is such a wide variety of these stunning Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin. Over the years, many homes all over the country and they will be The house’s original name “Lakshmigiri” For more tips and information on Quantum’s delivery is of Indian origin, whereas the design of the heads of state have called on those staying at Saifee services, visit their social media pages, website www. explored through this series. As you might know Villa. These range from Lord Soulbury, Sir Hugh now, Sir Charles Henry de Soysa was the proud home remains western. The gates also have quantum.lk, or call 011 5964964. the letter “S” inscribed on them at the crown. Charles Clifford, Sir Andrew Caldecott, Sir Oliver owner of the Alfred House Estate which is now Gunathilake, former Prime Minister S.W.R.D. subdivided as mentioned in last week’s segment. Some suggest that it was representative of the de Soysa family; it now seems fitting after the Bandaranaike, former President R. Premadasa, and Sir de Soysa had 15 children and most of the former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. mansions were built for or by his children. These name change. are some of the oldest and most architecturally striking homes in Colombo. The second feature in this series is Saifee Villa, previously known as Lakshmigiri. It is now a bungalow sitting on Thurstan Road, located in between Thunmulla Junction and College House. Saifee Villa was built way back in 1910 by Alfred Joseph Richard de Soysa – the second son of Sir Charles Henry de Soysa. Richard de Soysa was born in 1869. He travelled to England to pursue his higher education and later returned to Sri Lanka after his father’s unexpected passing. The two-storey mansion is said to have been built with the inspiration of Italian villas as the mansion has some decorative terraces and large gardens, which you can see through the gates when you pass by. Speaking of the gates, it is said the gates mimic Buckingham Palace and even An illustration of Saifee Villa Shougang Group, Beijing donate 12 Reckitt Benckiser Lanka donates hygiene tonnes of medical supplies to Sri Lanka Solidifying the longstanding relationship products to help battle against Covid-19 between the Chinese business fraternity and Sri Lanka, the lead construction team of The Reckitt Benckiser (Lanka) with the Ministry of Health One Transworks Square development project, Ltd. donated parcels containing to install mobile toilet units the Shougang Group of Beijing, donated 12 hygiene products for the use at hospitals treating Covid-19 tonnes of disinfectant to the Government of health professionals and patients as well as Covid-19 of Sri Lanka as aid in the battle against the military personnel at the tracking centres. Moreover, Covid-19 outbreak. Acting Ambassador of Sri Lanka to China K.K. forefront of the fight against the they teamed up with the Sri The Shougang Group is a Top 500 Yoganaadan seen with a Shougang Group representative Covid-19. Together with Dettol Lanka Army to renovate Chinese enterprise established in 1919. At handwash units, the company sanitation facilities at these present, the organisation operates over 600 of Sri Lanka to China K.K. Yoganaadan donated over 3,000 Dettol locations. subsidiaries, employing 90,000 employees. in a letter. The Shougang Group has liquid handwash bottles, 50,000 Expressing his views on In Sri Lanka, the Shougang Group continued to maintain cordial relations with its stakeholders in Sri Lanka and remains litres of Dettol antiseptic From left: Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva receiving donations the initiative, Reckitt Benckiser has undertaken the prestigious assignment disinfectant liquid, 120,000 from the Reckitt Benckiser Lanka team represented by a Reckitt Benckiser Head of Marketing Shaminda of being the lead construction partners of invested in the wellbeing of the country, litres of Lysol multipurpose Lanka employee, Reckitt Benckiser Lanka Product Group Manager Tehan Perera said: “Together with “The One”, a luxury development project including its large workforce currently Samarasinha Dettol, and Reckitt Benckiser Lanka Senior Manager – Projects located in the country. The management of cleaner, and over 120,000 litres Nilantha Gamini Dettol and Harpic, Reckitt comprising the Ritz-Carlton residences of Harpic toilet cleaner towards Benckiser is well known as located in Colombo 1. the group has promised continued support the cause. The products were this unprecedented challenge, campaign, installed hand wash a brand which has always “The essential medical items donated would be extended towards the island in the officially handed over to our healthcare workers and units in central public locations regarded their responsibility by the Shougang Group have already been months to come. Army Commander Lieutenant military personnel are working such as Fort, Maradana, towards society. During this sent to the Ministry of Health and Indigenous “I would like to extend my sincere General Shavendra Silva by a selflessly on the frontlines. Gampaha, Dematagoda, decisive period, we are happy Medical Services of Sri Lanka for utilisation appreciation and gratitude to the Shougang team of representatives from Therefore, it is very important Veyangoda railway and bus to be able to support the Sri against the spread of Covid-19. I and my Group along with my sincere belief that we Reckitt Benckiser recently. to ensure their safety at this stations, and hospitals such Lankan Government using team in the Embassy appreciate your timely can win this fight against Covid-19 together,” Speaking about the moment and we hope that our as IDH (National Institute the full strength of our brands. thinking to donate these items in our hour noted The One Transworks Square (Pvt.) Ltd. initiative, Reckitt Benckiser donation will support them in of Infectious Diseases), Similarly, we pledge our of need,” commented Acting Ambassador CEO/MD Janaki Siriwardhana. Commercial Director Sinclair their efforts.” Colombo National Hospital, commitment to this mission in Cruse said: “At a time where Prior to this contribution, Colombo South Teaching the future as well.” there is a substantial risk of the Dettol and Harpic pledged their Hospital, Negombo General For generations, Reckitt entire country falling victim support to the fight against Hospital, Ragama Teaching Benckiser has been renowned to the Covid-19 pandemic Covid-19 through several Hospital, Marawila Hospital, as a company which has and as a brand that is linked to other initiatives. Accordingly, Mulleriyawa Hospital, and supplied a variety of brands hygiene, we are happy to be bearing a significant cost, Anuradhapura Hospital. close to Sri Lankan households, able to fulfil our responsibility Dettol, under their “Clean Similarly, through their including Dettol, Harpic, to our country through this Hands, Clean Nation” CSR “Harpic Mission Wellbeing” Strepsils, Veet, Air Wick, (corporate social responsibility) initiative, Harpic joined forces contribution. In the face of Durex, and Lysol. The Shougang Group handing over their donation

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