Govt. prepares as 2021crucial for UNHRC pendulum energy sector sways before SL UDAYA GAMMANPILA

RS. 70.00 PAGES 80 / SECTIONS 6 VOL. 03 – NO. 17 SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2021

EAST CONTAINER GOODS AND TERMINAL: STILL IN SERVICES TAX WITHIN STORMY WATERS FIRST QUARTER »SEE PAGES 8 & 9 »SEE PAGE 3 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGE 11 GENERAL PREVENTIVE GUIDELINES For verified information on the coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the following authorities Suwasariya Ambulance Service 1999 Health Promotion Bureau Quarantine Unit 0112 112 705 1990 Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112 Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Wash hands with soap for 40-60 Wear a commercially available mask/ Maintain a minimum distance Use gloves when shopping, using Use traditional Sri Lankan greeting Always wear a mask, avoid crowded Hotline 0113456200-4 seconds, or rub hands with alcohol- cloth mask or a surgical mask at all of 1 metre from others, especially public transport, etc. and discard into at all times instead of handshaking, vehicles, maintain distance, and wash Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 based handrub for 20-30 seconds times in public places in public places a lidded bin lined with a bag hugging, and/or kissing hands before and after travelling Email [email protected] EAST CONTAINER TERMINAL Trilateral talks ongoing: Japan BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA z GoSL 51%, India 49%, Japan 0%: Port TUs allege The Government is attempting to hand over the entirety of the 49% of shares allocated for foreign investment in the Government has to pay around $ He also claimed that since the there would be a loan from Japan. In opened up for foreign investments East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port to India, 5 billion as an instalment for the Government did not have sufficient the new documents, there is no mention for the ECT, any party could submit by abandoning Japan, trade unions (TUs) attached to the loans obtained by Sri Lanka in this foreign reserves to pay the said loan of a Japanese yen loan. It means that proposals. Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) alleged. Meanwhile, the regard, Deputy General Secretary instalment, they are expediting the Japan is out of the ECT development “It could either be Japan or any other Japanese Embassy in Colombo maintained that trilateral of the All-Ceylon General Ports ECT deal in order to secure the loan project and now it is only India that is interested party. They can discuss Employees’ Union (ACGPEU), from India. involved,” he further claimed. and come within the 49% of shares. discussions were still ongoing. which is affiliated to the Janatha “There is no Japanese involvement However, when contacted by The The SLPA will hold 51% shares,” he Port TUs alleged that the sudden they wanted to secure a loan amounting Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), G. at all now, as the old Memorandum of Sunday Morning, SLPA Chairman said, stressing also that the investment urgency shown by the Government to $ 1 billion. Niroshan claimed while speaking Co-operation (MoC) is no longer valid. Gen. (Retd.) Daya Ratnayake said proposal was not finalised. to expedite the ECT deal was because By September of this year, the to The Sunday Morning. In the earlier MoC, it was stated that that within the said 49% of the shares Contd. on page 2 CEP STAGES III AND IV ‘TWISTED’ COVID-19 TESTING Tourism restarted! Pvt. hospitals Intl. bids to be pledge action called in early Feb The Government is scheduled It is learnt that while the bidding if informed to call for international bids during process would be specifically z Pvt. Health Services Regulatory the first week of February for the opened to international investors, Council too has a role construction of Stages III and IV local investors that have BY LAHIRU POTHMULLA of the Central Expressway Project partnerships with international (CEP), which saw a long delay investors could also submit their The Association of Private Hospitals due to various reasons during bids for the construction of Stages and Nursing Homes (APHNH) said that the past few years, The Sunday III and IV of the CEP. it is ready to take action against private Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 hospitals that have allegedly veered away from the methodology prescribed for ANTIQUITIES EXCAVATION IN NORTH, EAST Covid-19 testing, if informed of such. This was in response to allegations made Work commences on 10 sites by National Operation Centre for Prevention BY UWIN LUGODA Speaking to The Sunday of Covid-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) Head, Morning, Department of General Shavendra Silva, who stated that A total of 10 archaeologically Archaeology Director General a “twisted” Covid-19 testing methodology significant sites have been Prof. Anura Manatunga said that was adopted by some private hospitals. selected by the Department of excavations had begun at the Contd. on page 2 Archaeology for excavations, as Kurundi Viharaya in Mullaitivu an initial attempt to study and as of 18 January, and that the restore archaeological sites in excavation of the other sites would COAL IMPORTS FOR NOROCHCHOLAI Tourists arriving in Sri Lanka after the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake (BIA) was reopened on Thursday (21) the North and East, The Sunday soon follow. Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 Energy experts ROAD THROUGH RUMASSALA MOUNTAIN CAPITALFATE OF PTA HEIGHTS raise pricing Environmentalists PTA should stay till threat CAPITALRS. 34 MILLION HEIGHTS concerns UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION Concerns have been raised over attempts cry foul over width remains: Minister UPWARDS by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) for BY SARAH HANNAN built through the Rumassala z Claims UNHRC never gave SL the expansion of coal power plants, as experts Mountain, which they claim opportunity for own mechanism CAPITAL HEIGHTS claim that coal is not as cheap as it was before. Environmental activists have could potentially collapse the Contd. on page 2 yet again focused their attention ecosystem of the area. The Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary RS. 34 MILLION VISIT OUR on a carpeted road that is to be Contd. on page 2 Provisions) Act (PTA) should be in force UPWARDSWEBSITE RUWANPURA EXPRESSWAY PHASE I as long as there’s a threat of extremism and terrorism in the country, Minister of Public CAPITALVISIT HEIGHTS+94 OUR 763112233 Security Rear Admiral (Retd.) Dr. Sarath RS.35SHOW APARTMENT MILLIONWEBSITE UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION Four local companies finalised? Weerasekera said. READY FOR INSPECTION UPWARDS When contacted by The Sunday Morning, z RDA sources alarmed over tender conditions he said that there had been efforts to amend PROJECT NEARING+94 763112233 COMPLETION VISIT OUR Four different local companies It is learnt that the Ministry is likely estimates of the project. SHOWthe PTA but APARTMENT that they had not materialised. WEBSITE have been finalised by the Ministry to seek approval of the Cabinet of A highly informed source at the “I think that as far as extremism and the VISIT OUR +94 763112233WEBSITE of Highways to award the contracts Ministers for the finalised companies, Road Development Authority (RDA) element of terrorism is there, we must have READY FOR INSPECTION SHOW APARTMENT www.capitalheights.lk for the construction of four sections prior to awarding the contracts within confirmed to The Sunday Morning that this PTA. There are people who are still SHOW APARTMENT +94 763112233 of Phase I of the long-delayed the next two weeks. Maga’s bids were the lowest and that arrested under the PTA. If it is changed, it READY FORREADY INSPECTION FOR INSPECTION Ruwanpura Expressway in adherence Earlier, it was revealed that Maga it was lower than 25% of the estimates PROJECTwill affect those NEARINGin custody. The PTA COMPLETION should to the tender conditions, The Sunday had submitted the lowest bids which submitted by the engineers. be there as long as the threat is there”. PROJECT NEARINGPROJECT NEARING COMPLETION COMPLETION Morning learnt. are even lower than the engineering Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 NEWS

Contd. from page 1

Meanwhile, Dr. Peiris said that the metres from the coast. Meanwhile, responding to MP Bandara’s Trilateral... spread of Covid-19 cannot be controlled Work... Rumassala has special protection under the claim, the Ceylon Coal Company (CCC) has However, he said that it was not possible only by the Government and that it has to He explained that these sites were selected Fauna and Flora Protection (Amendment) Act stated in a media release that as per a policy to deviate from the MoC signed under the be a combined effort by the State, private for their archaeological value, based on (No. 22 of 2009) and also the Fisheries and decision taken by the Government in 2015, previous Government as Sri Lanka has sector, and the healthcare workers. research and visual evidence. Aquatic Resources Act (No. 2 of 1996). It is half of the quantity of coal will be procured already made a commitment. “As an association, we will extend our “After we investigate these sites, we need also protected by the National Environmental on a long-term basis from one tender and that “The President is looking at the issue co-operation in battling the pandemic. to see how we can preserve these places and Act (No. 47 of 1980). The ownership of this the remaining quantity will be procured in in a nationalistic manner, considering all We will do everything within our power present them to the public. However, we will beach is vested in the SLPA under Act No. several spot tenders. other national issues. We are looking for an to support healthcare workers and the only have a proper plan once the sites are 51 of 1976. The Government of Sri Lanka, Accordingly, 1.2 million metric tonnes investment of at least around $ 500 million,” Government to triumph against Covid-19. studied. At first glance, we can see that these which has signed the Ramsar Convention of coal for the season 2020/2021 will be he said. We are very focused on our contribution places used to be monasteries, but it is only on Wetland Conservation, is committed to awarded through the main tender awarded on Sri Lanka signed the said MoC for the to the Government in battling this and we after digging at these locations that we will protecting the Rumassala Coral Reef and its 8 November 2019, and the balance will be development of the ECT with India and will always come forward. Private hospital have a proper understanding of these places.” biodiversity. obtained through six spot tenders. Japan, based on the discussions among the members have done so much in the battle However, the recent construction of a In October, 2020, when The Sunday Currently, five spot tenders are in operation heads of governments during the period from against Covid-19 and we will continue to Buddhist statue in Mullaitivu received heavy Morning contacted the Araliya Group of for 2020/2021 and four of them have been 2017 to 2019 and on the cabinet decisions do so,” he said. criticism on social media, for allegedly being Hotels in connection with the matter, we were awarded to the lowest bidder. Only one taken on 30 May 2019. The MoC provides Presently, the Government has authorised built over a recently demolished Hindu Shiva informed that the road was built to assist the tender has been cancelled. The reason for its for the formation of a Terminal Operations certain private sector hospitals to carry out shrine. Both Prof. Manatunga and State villagers improve their business prospects. cancellation was that the Tender Board had Company (TOC), of which 49% is jointly testing in connection with Covid-19. Minister for National Heritage, Performing They also said that after the many protests, rejected the request to change the coal loading held by Japanese and Indian shareholders Artists, and Rural Artists Promotion Vidura the decision to build the road of a width of 40 port in violation of the tender rules. The while 51% is held by the SLPA. In terms Wickramanayaka denied this allegation and feet was abandoned and instead a road with a bidder, therefore, had voluntarily withdrawn. of the MoC, the TOC was to develop the Intl. bids... claimed that there was no Hindu monument width of 20 feet was built. In January of last year, the Cabinet had ECT based on a Japanese loan to the SLPA, Once the bid evaluation is completed, it at the spot. However, attempts to contact Minister granted approval to expand the Norochcholai guaranteed by the Government of Japan. will be a few months before construction Prof. Manatunga further noted that of Environment Mahinda Amaraweera and facility. Meanwhile, when queried by The Sunday is commenced. If the Government does these sites include those that are culturally Ministry of Environment Secretary Dr. Anil Earlier, it was proposed to request China Morning, the Embassy of Japan said that not receive a Build, Operate, and Transfer significant to both the Tamil and Sinhala Jasinghe for comment proved futile. to provide a concessionary loan facility Japan, India, and Sri Lanka are currently (BOT) contract, the project would once ethnic groups. directly to the CEB to meet 100% of the conducting discussions to finalise the again be delayed by another year, highly In June 2020, Ven. Ellawala Medhananda project cost to implement the project on details of co-operation so as to realise the informed sources at the Road Development Thera, who is a member of the Presidential Four... a government-to-government basis. The development and operation of the ECT. Authority (RDA), who wished to remain Task Force (PTF) for Archaeological Heritage However, it was also revealed that proposal considered the fact that the existing These allegations by the trade unions have anonymous, told The Sunday Morning. Management in the Eastern Province, according to the tender conditions, one three power plant units were also funded by been levelled against the Government in a Last year, in a letter to the Highways earmarked 2,000 sites in the Eastern Province company could bid only for one section of China in accordance with the Memorandum backdrop where the ties between Japan and Ministry and Board of Investment (BOI), for archaeological inspection. the entire expressway project, but Maga had of Understanding (MoU) signed between Sri Lanka were questioned following the President’s Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundara He explained that preparations had begun submitted bids for all four sections. It was Sri Lanka and China on the comprehensive cancellation of the controversial Light Rail had instructed the Highways Ministry to examine the 2,000 archaeological sites also revealed that if the RDA goes ahead implementation of investment, economic, and Transit (LRT) project by the Cabinet last and the RDA to call for fresh proposals including within forests across the Ampara, with the awarding of the tenders as per the technological co-operation on 4 July 2016 as year, claiming that it was costly. pertaining to the construction of the New Batticaloa, and Trincomalee Districts. tender conditions, the Government is likely to well as the framework agreement between the In a letter written to the Director General Kelani Bridge to Athurugiriya and to also Following this, attempts to restore several incur a loss of around Rs. 10 billion from the two countries for the promotion of investment of the External Resources Department (ERD) accept bids for Sections III and IV of the archaeological sites had been initiated, which entire project, as the bids submitted by other and economic co-operation signed on 16 May of the Ministry of Finance, Economic, CEP. includes the restoration of the “Deegawapiya companies were not even close to the bids 2017. and Policy Development on 7 May 2020, The letter also stated that the Stupa” in the Ampara District. The submitted by Maga Engineering, The Sunday Accordingly, it sought to invite technical seen by The Sunday Morning, the Japan Government will not encourage debt- restoration process of the Stupa began last Morning learnt. and commercial proposals from the China International Co-operation Agency (JICA) funded projects and annuity payments (a year and is being done under the guidance When queried as to whether the chosen Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) has said that the Government of Japan would series of payments made at equal intervals) of Deegawapiya Temple Chief Prelate Ven. companies had even matched the prices to build a 300 MW power plant unit as an temporarily hold the formulation process to meet revenue shortfalls or guaranteed Mahaoya Sobitha Thera. submitted by Maga, a high-ranking official extension to the existing power plant on an regarding the appraisal stage of the Greater traffic, as these options are not affordable. During the inauguration ceremony of the of the RDA said that such price matching had engineering, procurement, and construction Colombo Transmission and Distribution Loss It was further stated that several parties restoration, Chairperson of the said PTF not been conducted. (EPC) basis, considering that the CMEC has Reduction Project Phase II. had submitted letters of intent or interest and Defence Secretary Gen. (Retd.) Kamal He said that the proposals were now carried out the construction of the existing The letter, which was signed by JICA to the BOI for the two initiatives on a BOT Gunaratne stated that a trust fund would be being finalised by the Ministry of Highways power plant on the nomination of China. South Asia Department South Asia Division basis, most of which were largely of an established to expedite the renovation, which and that the process had been expedited, – Maheesha Mudugamuwa 3 Director Naoaki Miyata, has stated: “We unsolicited nature. will require 23 million standard bricks, 3,977 considering the delay faced by the project regret to say that the Government of Japan The RDA official noted that they doubt cubes of river sand, 30,167 bags of cement, during the past few years. will not give clearance for proceeding with as to whether good investors would and other raw material. However, as learnt by The Sunday PTA... the project to the appraisal stage until the invest in such a huge project without any Morning, the funds for the project had not yet “We still have the threat of extremism above-mentioned situations are improved.” contribution from the Government. been finalised and the estimates were to be and terrorism. Therefore, we must have the However, replying to a query made in this “If the Government’s debt repayment Environmentalists... done after concluding the tender process. facilities to keep them and question them, regard by The Sunday Morning, the Japanese capacity is shrinking, there are other ways Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Last year, the Cabinet officially removed and that’s for the good of the public,” Dr. Embassy in Colombo noted that they believe to implement projects, especially when it environmental activist Keerthi Hewagoda the Chinese contractor from Section I of Weerasekera added. that they are making good progress with comes to the CEP. However, the question shared an account of his observations after a the Ruwanpura Expressway Project (REP), He added that he does not think that the the co-operation of the Government of is whether the Government provides a visit to the site. which extends from Kahathuduwa to Ingiriya, said piece of legislation will be changed Sri Lanka on projects including the “Kalu sovereign guarantee or not,” he stressed. “Though a famous businessman involved and decided to go ahead with local funding. anytime soon, noting also that he will not Ganga Water Supply Expansion Project”, the With all these questions, the success of in this claimed that the access road will be just As confirmed by Ministry of Highways agree to such a change. “Anuradhapura North Water Supply Project”, the project is still a question, he added. 20 feet wide, plans have been submitted to the Secretary Ranjith Premasiri, the local funds When queried as to what response the “Bandaranaike International Airport When queried about the ongoing local authority for a road of a width of 40 feet. are to be raised through state banks, while there would be if the United Nations Development Project”, the “New Bridge construction of Stage II of the CEP, he said The collapse of the Rumassala ecosystem the Ministry of Highways is yet to lay out a High Commissioner for Human Rights Construction Project over the Kelani River”, the construction work was continuing on will be a major blow not only to the tourism mechanism for funding purposes. (UNHCHR) urges the Government to change and other such projects. Treasury funds. “The construction work industry but also to the small-scale coastal The proposed Ruwanpura Expressway the PTA, in her latest report, the Minister said: began as the investments got delayed more fishing industry,” Hewagoda noted. from Kahathuduwa to Pelmadulla via “The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) than expected. We haven’t received loans As a routine visitor and researcher of the Ratnapura connects the Western Province is already saying to change that but they Pvt. hospitals... from state banks as yet, and at present, the area, Hewagoda said that over the recent with the Sabaragamuwa Province. The are not coming here to curb terrorism or During this week’s meeting of the construction work is continuing only with years, he has noticed that there was a visible project from Kahathuduwa to Ratnapura to extremism. NOCPCO, General Silva highlighted the state funds,” he further stressed. reduction of the species population in the area Pelmadulla (73.9 km) has been divided into “What is the support that they are giving us need of a strict and authorised regulatory The RDA was to finalise the awarding as well. three phases for implementation purposes. to address these threats? If we are the people mechanism to be adopted within private of the construction contract for the long- Many species of animals on the ancient Phase I extends from Kahathuduwa to who are suffering, it is we who should decide hospitals in relation to Covid-19 testing. delayed Sections III and IV of the CEP Rumassala Mountain are now extinct due to Ingiriya (24.3 km), Phase II from Ingiriya what to have and what not to have, and not He said that it has been brought to when Dr. Jayasundara intervened. the settlements and noise, light, and chemical to Ratnapura (26.2 km), and Phase III from the UNHRC.” his notice that the prescribed testing Accordingly, the construction contracts pollution that have taken place over time, he Ratnapura to Pelmadulla (21.4 km). When further questioned about the methodology has been distorted and that were to be awarded to a Chinese company claimed. However, when contacted by The Sunday Presidential Commission of Inquiry attempts are being made by certain private for the construction of Section III of the “These animals are suffering from the Morning, RDA Chairman Chaminda appointed to probe the reports of past sector hospitals to carry out rapid antigen CEP while the construction of Section IV loss of habitat and a breakdown in their Athaluwage noted that the entire process of commissions of inquiry and committees on and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests at of the CEP would have been awarded to a food chains, thus causing the breakdown of choosing contractors is being carried out by alleged human rights violations ahead of the regional testing places and mini laboratories UK-based contractor. ecological niches due to uncontrolled tourism the Ministry of Highways and that the RDA next session of the UNHRC, he said that he which have not received any authorisation In August of last year, the RDA was and harmful activities in the periphery.” was not yet informed about the final decision. believed that the President had taken such a from the Ministry of Health. to finalise the documents that would be The access road is said to be running from In the meantime, a highly informed official decision because the UNHRC had not given Speaking to The Sunday Morning, submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers to the tourist hotel area in the Yaddehimulla of the Ministry of Highways noted that no Sri Lanka the opportunity to have its own APHNH Chairman Dr. Lakith Peiris said the obtain approval to proceed. Furthermore, Grama Niladhari Division adjacent to the final decision has been taken regarding the mechanism. association will make things right if they are the funding was said to be finalised in a way Unawatuna Wella Devalaya to the Peela contractors either. “As far as I’m concerned, the UNHRC informed about such hospitals. that would be more favourable to Sri Lanka. Junction beyond the Rumassala main beach. He said that the bids are still being never gave us the opportunity to have our “If there are any member hospitals that The Cabinet gave approval to consider the However, the rest of the section between evaluated. own mechanism. For example, when we are not following protocols and if we are technical proposal from British consultancy Galhena and the Peela Junction is a footpath. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa were about to implement the Lessons Learnt informed about them, we will definitely specialist Roughton for the construction of According to Hewagoda, the 180-metre and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) make things right. I don’t know what these Section IV of the CEP. Roughton was said footpath runs through an ecologically recommendations, they came up with the hospitals are, but we can take appropriate to be the management consultant of Stage sensitive area, bisecting an animal crossing, Energy... Darusman Report. When we appointed action concerning them and make sure that IV for the CEP, and would be partnered with and parallel to the boundary of the Rumassala Speaking to The Sunday Morning, energy the Paranagama Commission on missing they are aligned with all the protocols and a local contractor. Several proposals from Sanctuary. expert Dr. Vidura Ralapanawe said that the persons, they came up with the Office of standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the local construction companies were also Hewagoda questioned as to what will cost of coal has risen to over $ 90 free on the High Commissioner for Human Rights Government,” he said. being evaluated by the authority to award happen if this section of the road is also board (FOB). With freight, insurance, value- Investigation of Sri Lanka (OISL) Report and Dr. Peiris added that they have shared the construction contract. converted into a 20-foot carpeted road added tax, and lightering, the total cost of one OISL recommendation was to do away all the guidelines and protocols that they Initially, the Government’s plan was to extending along the road leading to the Peace coal received by a plant is $ 120/tonne and at with the Paranagama Report. So, they never have received from time to time from the complete the construction of the CEP, which Pagoda. the current exchange rate, this is Rs. 24 per allowed us to have our own mechanism. Medical Officers of Health (MOHs) and the consists of four phases, at the end of 2019. He also pointed out that the route will bring kilogramme. That’s why I think that the President has Private Health Services Regulatory Council The construction of the 37.3 km stretch large numbers of people to the Rumassala “This gives the cost of coal per generation taken a decision like that,” he said. (PHSRC) in relation to Covid-19, with their from Kadawatha to Mirigama under Section Great Sand and White Sand, which will as Rs. 9.12, and with the diesel cost for the Meanwhile, the Minister said that a members. I was delayed due to financing issues on damage the coastal Bonavista Coral Reef. plant added, the fuel cost per unit is Rs. meeting would be held on 25 January to “We have advised all member hospitals the part of Sri Lanka to activate a loan from “In the end, the villagers who currently 9.90”. discuss how to address the UNHRC Session to ensure that they have extremely stringent China that was already committed to. operate small shops and the car park may Adding other costs of the plant (except in February-March. protocols and SOPs in line with government The construction of Section III was initially see some advantage but will be financing) brings the unit cost to Rs. 14.50. “The Foreign Secretary and others with guidelines. That is how all hospitals should delayed by almost four years, as Sri sidelined once the big businesses attract all Putting the debt and equity returns at the knowledge on the subject are expected to be operated,” he said. Lanka and Japan could not agree on the the crowds,” Hewagoda opined. current exchange rate will drive up any new meet to find out the progress made so far and He said that the PHSRC, which is the conditions. However, soon after the new The Rumassala Marine Sanctuary and coal plant cost to around Rs. 20 per unit,” he to study about the allegations,” he said. body responsible for the regulation and Government came to power, Section III Land Sanctuary are administered by the stressed. “As someone who has gone to the Office development of private hospitals, could also of the CEP was opened for fresh bids by Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Meanwhile, in Parliament last of the UNHCHR on several occasions, I have ensure that hospitals follow the given SOPs. cancelling the discussions that had been land is vested in the Sri Lanka Ports Authority week, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) submitted certain reports to the Office of the “I don’t have any knowledge about the ongoing between Japan and Sri Lanka (SLPA). Parliamentarian Nalin Bandara alleged UNHCHR to prove that Sri Lanka has not hospitals that failed to follow protocols, for many years. Section IV was to be A section of it belongs to the Habaraduwa that there is a cloud of uncertainty over the committed war crimes. Reputed experts in but if there are such hospitals and they are constructed by China, but no agreement Pradeshiya Sabha. Gazette Notification tender called for the purchase of coal for the the field including Prof. Michael Newton, not adhering to the Government’s standard was signed. No. 1269/25 dated 3 January 2003 has Norochcholai Coal Power Plant. Major General John Holmes, Sir Geoffrey protocols and SOPs, on the one hand, the Meanwhile, when contacted by The legalised and conserved 1,707 hectares of the He said that a cabinet paper was put Nice, and Queen’s Counsel Prof. David Crane PHSRC can ensure that these hospitals are Sunday Morning, RDA Chairman Rumassala sea as a marine sanctuary. forward last week to purchase 300,000 Rodney Dixon attached to the Paranagama aligned with the guidelines, and on the other, Chaminda Athaluwage said that the bids Rumassala is also covered under the Coast tonnes of coal at a rate of $ 96. Commission on several occasions have if our association is educated about what would be opened in February. Conservation Act (No. 57 of 1981) and the “As of now, several other tenders have been claimed that we never committed war these hospitals are, then it is able to make He added that the bidding process is Coast Conservation Department Act (No. cancelled. Those cancelled tenders have been crimes,” he further claimed. sure that these hospitals are made aware of currently being carried out by the Ministry 49 of 2011) as amended. Valuation records called for $ 56 to purchase a tonne of coal.” Sri Lanka is on the agenda of the next how they need to carry out their operations,” of Highways. should be kept if any construction work Bandara alleged that Sri Lanka will suffer a Session of the UNHRC which would take he said. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa is being carried out in the area within 300 total loss of $ 1.7 billion due to this. place from 22 February to 19 March. the sunday morning 3 Sunday, January 24, 2021 SPOTLIGHT EAST CONTAINER TERMINAL STILL IN STORMY WATERS z No final decision on z TUs to continue struggle The Estate Workers’ Centre staged a protest in front of the Colombo Fort Railway Station on Thursday (21), demanding the Government to increase their daily basic wage to Rs. 1,000 as promised by the Government last year tripartite MoC: SLPA demanding 100% PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA DAILY WAGE HIKE FOR PLANTATION SECTOR BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Trade Unions (TUs) attached to the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) continue to The illusive cuppa express their displeasure at the apparent disregarding of z Ministry to step in if z Productivity-based model assurances given by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa that the stalemate continues from end Jan: RPCs East Container Terminal (ECT) at Colombo Port would not BY SARAH HANNAN de Silva to inquire on the progress components such as productivity following last week’s meeting with incentive, attendance incentive, be sold to any foreign nation, Increasing the daily wage for the RPC chairmen, and whether and price share supplement, while urging the Government plantation workers to Rs. 1,000 the TUs have been informed about which should be factored in to scrap all investment plans for terminal development and Colombo Port’s East has been long perceived as an the proposed pay model. when the Rs. 1,000 wage is Container Terminal election promise that never De Silva revealed that the formulated.” assign it fully to the SLPA. PHOTO ©️SLPA materialised, and the back-and- negotiations are at a stalemate, as The Labour Minister explained forth negotiations between the the RPC heads and TUs have not that the RPC heads are willing Seeking a total block on any sort heads of Regional Plantation arrived at a collective agreement. to pay the Rs. 1,000 daily wage, of investment, the unions urged the Rajapaksa had stated that the ECT increasing container transporting Companies (RPCs), trade union He added: “When the RPCs but have not agreed to increase Government to retain 100% of the will be “sustainably developed” capacity. After the Vallarpadam (TU) leaders, and the incumbent propose their wage structures, the basic wage from Rs. 700 to shares with the SLPA, and to utilise under the investment programme. Port of Cochin Town was declared Government have delayed the the TUs continue to disagree and Rs. 725. Moreover, the RPCs had government funds allocated for the Accordingly, the terminal would as a reshipping hub by India, this matter by yet another year. are requesting that the increment also stated that they are not going Authority to develop the terminal. be developed as an investment competition intensified. When the present Government of Rs. 1,000 should factor in the to add the price share supplement The JVP-affiliated All Ceylon project with 51% of its ownership There was a preparation to assumed office, it was President basic wage that is to be increased to the plantation workers’ wages. General Ports Employees’ Union under the Government of Sri Lanka, develop the Vizhinjam Port in South Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s promise to to Rs. 725, and the additional Contd. on page 7 (ACGPEU) Deputy General and the remaining 49% as an India as a reshipment port, and the ensure that the daily wage issue Secretary G. Niroshan stressed that investment by India's Adani Group Indian Government had declared would be sorted out immediately, the total income of the ECT during and other stakeholders. that 12 leading ports existing under and the Rs. 1,000 daily wage that Two-year timeline of daily wage issue the last two months has exceeded the custodian model of ports had was promised for the plantation Rs. 600 million, even without proper New challenges ahead been converted as consolidated worker was to come into effect „„January 2019 The Ceylon Workers’ and trade unions, workers received operations. However, in the Auditor General’s entity units. It has also been revealed by 1 March 2020. Congress (CWC), Lanka Jathika Estate a daily wage of Rs. 730, comprising “At present, the ECT doesn’t report attached to the progress report that the Colombo Port may face Workers’ Union (LJEWU), and Joint a basic wage of Rs. 500, a price share The delay in reaching have a separate management or of the SLPA in 2016, it is stated competition posed not only by the Plantation Trade Union Centre (JPTUC), supplement of Rs. 30, an attendance agreements later forced the along with representatives of the RPCs, allowance of Rs. 60, and a productivity separate employees. It runs with that the shipping agents currently ports situated outside South Asia, governing political party to look representatives of the Ceylon Employers’ incentive of Rs. 140. minimum facilities without a proper show more interest in using large but also by the ports in the Indian at including this as a budgetary plan. A higher income could have vessels in the transport of cargo. subcontinent. Federation, and other stakeholders, „„February 2020 Prime Minister Mahinda promise for 2021, which has sign the Collective Agreement in the been earned if a proper system is Similarly, upon the amalgamation However, the ECT could be used led to the RPCs proposing a Rajapaksa assures that arrangements established even at present,” he told and centralisation of container for operational activities to face presence of former Prime Minister Ranil are currently being made to pay the productivity-based pay model The Sunday Morning. vessel companies, about 95% of these competitive situations. Wickremesinghe. proposed daily wage of Rs. 1,000 to that includes the following Trade unions that demanded a Rs. estate sector employees. Niroshan went on to say that the container capacity in the Asian Colombo Port, primarily a proposals: 1,000 basic daily wage lowered their According to the Prime Minister, the the SLPA could develop the ECT European Trade Route is handled by container port, is a rapidly growing through its own income within the four allied shipping companies. maritime hub of the South Asian yy A fixed daily wage of Rs. demand to accept the offer by RPCs to plantation companies agreed with the increase the basic wage to Rs. 700 – an next two years, without support This has resulted in creating region, and the port connected 1,105 with the re-introduction Government’s decision in principle, and increase of Rs. 75 from the earlier offer from India. stiff competition for obtaining port cargo originating from and destined of attendance and productivity arrangements were supposedly made to of Rs. 625 made by the plantation services. Under such circumstances, for Europe, East and South Asia, incentives increase the daily wage of estate sector No sale/lease companies – along with an increment of employees to Rs. 1,000 from 1 March the authority should take appropriate the Persian Gulf, and East Africa. yy Increase the earning of Rs. 20 from the then Rs. 30 in Price Share 2020. Nevertheless, at the meeting held measures to protect and improve its The original port had a harbour plantation workers by 30%, Supplement (PSS), bringing the total „„July 2020 The Government and private with the representatives of port market share. The Audit office has area of 184 hectares. In 2008, the while removing an upper limit daily wage to Rs. 750. sector look at introducing an outgrower trade unions, President Rajapaksa stated that no such step had been South Harbour area (285 hectares) on wages The Collective Agreement also saw a model with proper rules and regulations assured that the ECT would not be taken, even by the end of the year was developed to accommodate hike in the payment of additional output yy that would benefit the workers as well as sold or leased. Instead, he said, he under review, which is 2016. deepwater berths and the latest A productivity-based pay by Rs. 15 per kg. The Rs. 140 incentive the companies. has negotiated with India on the As learnt by The Sunday Morning, generation of mainline vessels. The model – a fixed daily wage is allowance that was earlier a part of the Minister of Plantation Industries contract, and that it was possible to since 2016, no major development harbour is served by a two-way Collective Agreement was removed. to be offered thrice a week, and Export Agriculture Dr. Ramesh reach an agreement to retain 51% has been made to the ECT. Moreover, channel with an initial depth of 20 m while the productivity-based „„February 2019 Former Plantation Pathirana however stated: “Workers ownership and keep control of the several years have already passed and a width of 570 m. pay model will be exercised Industries Minister Navin Dissanayake can follow the outgrower model if they terminal under the SLPA. since the signing of the MoC to In addition to the container on the other days announces that the Government had wish to, but I accept that there may be Emphasising that he would develop the ECT. Yet, successive terminals in the original port area, yy The productivity-based decided to add Rs. 50 to the wage given some shortcomings such as the lack of not allow any harm to come governments have failed to take a final SLPA planned to develop three by plantation companies. (Employees’ Provident Fund/Employees’ model will come into effect to the nation’s sovereignty or decision regarding the development of terminals (each having a capacity Funds were to be allocated through Trust Fund (EPF/ETF) benefits. But the independence when investments the terminal. As a result of the delay, of 2.4 million TEUs) in the South under two key performance the 2019 Budget. proposals transitioning to this model will indicators, where Rs. 50 is to are arranged, the President had experts have alleged that the country Harbour, the first of which was built „„January 2020 President Gotabaya ensure such benefits are awarded.” be paid for every kilo of tea „„December 2020 Discussions continue told union representatives that the has already lost billions of rupees in and in operation on a build-operate- plucked, and Rs. 125 for every Rajapaksa announces the increment of ECT’s development was planned annual income. transfer (BOT) basis by Colombo the daily wage of plantation workers to between RPCs and TUs on wage kilo of rubber latex made increment terms. after reviewing all relevant factors, Furthermore, the Audit Report International Container Terminals Rs. 1,000, with the decision supposed to including the regional geopolitical revealed that reshipping represents Ltd. (CICT) – a joint venture come into effect from 1 March 2020. „„January 2021 RPCs propose Government won’t force concerns, sovereignty of the about 70% of the container handling company of China Merchants collective agreement At the time, under the Collective productivity-based pay model to Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between Ministry of Labour; await TUs’ agreement country, revenue, and employment of the Colombo Port, and a great Holding (International) Co. Ltd. and The Sunday Morning contacted Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs) to terms. generation potential. influence had been posed by the SLPA. Minister of Labour Nimal Siripala Explaining further, President competitive ports in acquiring the Contd. on page 10 4 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 ROUND-UP/SATIRE Koththamalli treatment Dayasiri’s proposal to Govt. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Leader MP Rauff Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) General Secretary State Minister the country without any control. “The health inspectors. In such a scenario, Hakeem, who was also being Dayasiri Jayasekara, who spent 14 days in a Covid-19 treatment Government does not have the ability to the Government will be able to limit treated for Covid-19 at a treatment centre after testing positive, last week returned home and is direct everyone into quarantine centres the number of quarantine centres,” he currently undergoing a week of self-isolation. and provide the required facilities given had noted. centre, completed his treatment the current circumstances. This is mainly The State Minister also noted last week. “Happy to have returned home today personnel for their fantastic work around due to the limited human resources in the that it would not be easy to provide During his stay after being declared Covid free. I will the country as we tackle this pandemic. health sector and the high expenditure to quarantine facilities to the 60,000-odd at the quarantine now be subject (to) one week of self- I urge the public to take note of the be incurred for the quarantine process. Sri Lankans whom the Government facility, it is learnt isolation at my residence. I would like symptoms of this virus, and take steps I therefore propose to the health sector plans to repatriate to the country in the that Hakeem and to thank everyone for their thoughts to protect yourselves and your families to permit people to home quarantine next few weeks. several other and prayers throughout my recovery while following health guidelines,” he if a person tests positive and is still “In order to address the issue, once governing party SLFP General Secretary over the last few days,” Jayasekara added. able to use a separate room and toilet again I would like to propose the option members who were State Minister Dayasiri tweeted last Wednesday (20). In a social media post, Jayasekara said during the quarantine period under the of home quarantine for them as well,” receiving treatment Jayasekara “A special thank you to the medical that Covid-19 has now spread around supervision of the respective public Jayasekara had proposed. SLMC Leader Rauff at the facility were Hakeem getting his given koththamalli temperature checked during their stay while at the treatment to boost their The failed tonic centre in Koggala immunity to fight Last week, criticisms mounted the virus. New posts over the effectiveness of the A few days prior to his departure Two new diplomatic controversial concoction from the facility, posts were recently prepared by Dhammika Bandara Hakeem tweeted a announced by the to cure Covid-19, popularly photograph of the parliamentary High known as “Dhammika Paniya”, The evening view from evening view from sunny Post Committee. They with several politicians who had the treatment centre in the room he was are to the Seychelles consumed the concoction testing Koggala residing in at the positive for Covid-19. PHOTOS @RAUFF_ facility. side up and Nigeria. HAKEEM TWITTER “The evening by abilis Srimal Wickramasinghe, In fact, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna sunset from my quarantine facility in Koggala who held the post of Deputy (SLPP) councillor at the Kegalle Praseshiya and the routine check on my temperature and Ambassador of Sri Lanka’s The announcement of the two Sabha Shilantha Wijepala went public last oxygen levels in the lungs. Masha Allah doing mission in Vienna during the new diplomatic posts week saying that he and his family had well so far. Three more days for the boredom 2010-2015 period, has been Rajapaksa presidency. The consumed the Dhammika Paniya and they to end,” Hakeem tweeted on Wednesday. nominated as Sri Lanka’s new other appointment is to Sri have now tested positive for Covid-19. Above the law? envoy to Seychelles. Lanka’s mission in Nigeria. Wijepala had further stated that several Only 32 legislators within the past two weeks. According to reports, Former MP Janaka Bandara, other family members who had also of the 225-member- However, it is learnt that only Wickramasinghe is a sibling who is also related to several consumed the concoction had been infected strong legislature had 32 MPs had participated in the of a wife of a senior member of senior government members, with Covid-19. No way says voluntarily participated PCR testing process. the Government. A Sri Lankan has been nominated as Sri He had added that he as well as his in the Covid-19 PCR tests It is interesting to note that mission in Seychelles was Lanka’s Ambassador to family members had consumed the tonic that were carried out by while the legislators were able opened during the Mahinda Nigeria. as prescribed by the producer and had even Dissanayake to ignore the directive to do refrained from consuming any meat items Parliament. PCR tests, ordinary citizens are during the period. State Minister for The screening process subjected to mandatory PCR According to the SLPP councillor, Wildlife Protection, covering the legislators as well testing and isolation/quarantine although he had initially believed the tonic Adoption of Safety as parliament staff was carried in the event they had come in to Feeling sorry to be a curative concoction, it has been Measures including out after several parliamentarians contact with a Covid-19-infected proven that it is not so. the Construction tested positive for Covid-19 person. Agriculture Minister Also last week, SLPP Minister Piyal of Electric Fences Mahindananda Nishantha, who publicly consumed the and Trenches and Aluthgamage has Dhammika Paniya, tested positive for State Minister Reforestation and recently noted that he Covid-19. Wimalaweera Robbery at Horagolla? However, creator of the tonic, Bandara Forest Resource Dissanayake felt sorry for Samagi Jana Balawegaya claimed last week that those who have been Development Wimalaweera infected by the virus after consuming the Dissanayake had refused to grant (SJB) MP Ranjan tonic are those who had failed to consume permission for the Ukrainian tour Ramanayake, who was Agriculture SJB MP Ranjan the proper dosages. groups in the country to visit the recently sentenced to Minister Ramanayake Last Thursday (21), Bandara decided to four years in prison Mahindananda distribute his tonic free of charge to people Dehiwela Zoo or the Pinnawala Aluthgamage Elephant Orphanage. after being found guilty and carried out yet another dansala. He first of contempt of court. would be taken to withdraw held a free distribution a few months ago. The Minister had said that none of the Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s ancestral the cases. facilities under the purview of the National home, Horagolla in Nittambuwa Aluthgamage had said that According to Aluthgamage, Zoological Department would permit tourists PHOTO WIKIPEDIA he was looking at withdrawing the incumbent Government under the current Covid-19 situation. An unidentified opened a latch after breaking a glass two cases filed by him against is not interested in engaging Dissanayake had said that while he had individual had entered panel on a door in the back of the Ramanayake at the Nugegoda in political victimisation and Lohan’s secret received a request to permit the Ukrainian the ancestral home house. While the former President courts. He had further noted that the former Yahapalana State Minister for tourists to visit the zoo and the Pinnawala of former President had not been at the premises at that once Ramanayake is Government as well as the Prisons Management Elephant Orphanage, he would not grant Chandrika Bandaranaike the time of the incident, there had in a position to attend court former Prime Minister were and Prisoners’ permission. Kumaratunga, Horagolla been three security personnel on proceedings after completing responsible for the fate that has Rehabilitation Lohan “I will grant permission only if the duty. Whether any valuables were his quarantine period, steps befallen Ramanayake. in Nittambuwa, last Ratwatte had last President grants approval for such an action,” missing from the premises was not week embarked on a he had stated. The Minister had explained Wednesday (20). immediately known. However, it that a decision had not yet been reached The break-in had taken place was subsequently reported that secret tour. Ratwatte’s State Minister decision to engage Lohan on a date to reopen the facilities under when the premises were being several bottles of wine that were Ratwatte the National Zoological Department that provided special security. There in the refrigerator on the ground in this secret tour The message had caught many officials of the were closed due to the pandemic. Former is also a police post at the gate to floor of the house were taken. Sri Lankan Envoy to Russia Udayanga the entrance of the Bandaranaike Further investigations are being MP Ven. Athutraliye Rathana Thera, who Prisons Department by surprise. Weeratunge last month initiated a tourism Samadhi. carried out by the Colombo Crimes recently entered Parliament to fill the National pilot project to bring down several tour Preliminary investigations have Division and the Nittambuwa List slot of the Our People’s Power Party, is The State Minister had last Sunday (17) groups from the Ukraine to Sri Lanka. revealed that the individual had Police. considering extending his support to the made an impromptu visit to the Monaragala Prison, shocking the officials as well as the Government, it is learnt. inmates. It was later learnt that the State The Police Headquarters A pro-Government social further noted. Minister’s sudden visit was aimed at finding is looking at setting up media site last week reported The Thera had further out first-hand the condition of the prison as fingerprint machines at police Fingerprinting police that Ven. Rathana Thera had sent a request to the Chief well as the food that is provided to the inmates. stations islandwide in order police personnel assigned for duty at a the practical issues faced as a result and sent several messages to Prime Government Whip for a Ratwatte, following the Mahara Prison to enable police personnel to respective police station, the officer in have requested for the use of modern Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa seat allocation for him in clash, last month had said that he would clock in and out after duty. charge has to manually check the log technology to address the matter. expressing his desire to extend the governing party side in address the longstanding issues faced by book to ensure each officer has signed in These police officers have explained his support to the Government. Parliament, the report has inmates as well as reintroduce the parole Police personnel currently have to sign and has signed out of the previous shift. that it would in turn provide the senior However, the Government added. The governing party system that has been dysfunctional for in and out in a duty book at each police Several senior police personnel have police personnel more time to attend has so far not responded to has reportedly not responded some time now. station. In the event there are around 50 informed the Police Headquarters of to public requirements. these overtures, the report to this request either.

Sajith takes over ‘Grand Old Party’, unites SJB and UNP

BY OUTLANDER is stepping down from active politics due President Gotabaya Rajapaksa led the party risk angering the majority Sinhalese President spoke fondly of Wickremesinghe to health considerations and was confident to victory in the 2019 and 2020 elections. Buddhist voters necessary to win the and Premadasa, calling them reliable The following hypothetical article is in the new leadership team headed by The SJB suffered its own split in 2023 2024 presidential election. The split led to politicians whom “the people could trust” intended as a parody political forecast from Premadasa. As a part of the negotiations on the issue of the 22nd Amendment to Ranawaka, Fernando, and others leaving the to vibrantly but responsibly oppose the 24 January 2047, or 25 years from now. between the two statesmen, Premadasa the Constitution, which restricted the SJB, after they refused a written order from Government in a healthy democracy like Sri None of the events that follow have taken agreed to keep UNP Deputy Leader Sagala right to vote for members of minority SJB General Secretary Jalani Premadasa to Lanka. place as of today. Ratnayake in his position, much to the communities who were seen as disloyal to support the amendment. Some in the SJB are wary that the In a sombre ceremony, Opposition Leader disappointment of other aspirants to the Sri Lanka. Several prominent SJB figures, After the Supreme Court ruled the 22nd 70-year-old Premadasa is past his prime, and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Leader post, Ruwan Wijewardena and Navin including Champika Ranawaka, Harin Amendment constitutional and it was passed and his prospects of galvanising sufficient Sajith Premadasa accepted the leadership of Dissanayake. Premadasa has promised Fernando, and Ranjith Madduma Bandara, by Parliament, Ranawaka, Fernando, and support to take on the SLPP are bleak. But the United National Party (UNP) from its Dissanayake the post of National Organiser, vigorously opposed the measure, and were Senaratne were arrested on charges of some fear that he is their only option, as he leader, 97-year-old Ranil Wickremesinghe, which he held over 25 years ago in 2020. incensed when the Government forced inciting ethnic tensions by opposing the bill. has been for the last 25 years. “What choice who is stepping down after helming the Wijewardena will be appointed as UNP the Chief Justice to step down on the eve They were sentenced to 30 years rigorous do we have?”, one SJB MP asked. “If we party for over 52 years. Premadasa and Media Secretary. of the Supreme Court hearings into the imprisonment. The sentence was praised by remove Sajith, who can take his place?” Wickremesinghe publicly parted ways 25 Opposition MPs are hopeful that the constitutionality of the draconian law due to Opposition Leader Premadasa as a strong The challenge is similar to that faced by years ago, in 2020, over a struggle for the unification of the UNP and SJB would his suspected opposition to the bill. move to promote ethnic harmony. Premadasa himself decades ago, when in leadership of the UNP, with Premadasa and allow them to present a viable challenge to However, Premadasa as Opposition President Basil Rajapaksa, who succeeded 2020 he displaced Wickremasinghe after 25 the majority of UNP MPs splitting to form the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Leader insisted that the issue of minority his brother Gotabaya Rajapaksa after the years leading the UNP, before Premadasa’s the SJB. (SLPP), which has held the presidency and votes was not one worth agitating with latter stepped down from office, welcomed own 25-year losing streak against the In a statement, Wickremesinghe said he a two-thirds majority in Parliament since the Government on, as he feared it would the unification of the UNP and SJB. The Rajapaksas. Sunday, January 24, 2021 Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 Page 5 6 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 FOCUS

PCR TEST KITS PROCUREMENT Oxford-Astra-Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine CID probes PHOTO AL JAZEERA irregularities

PCR test kit issue, as told by the MLTs, was not PHOTO ©️AP with the machine but rather with the reagents used to extract the samples. COVID-19 VACCINE Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Sri Lanka Association of Government Medical Laboratory Technologists (SLAGMLT) President Ravi Kumudesh said the reagent monopoly has created Sri Lanka gets a PCR dilemma, as a group of virology specialists were convincing the health authorities to use the kind of reagents that they recommended, which are not up to date. “The PCR tests have evolved vaccine rolling during the year and at present, there are technologies available BY UWIN LUGODA to provide the test results within The vaccine prequalification process an hour. But local authorities With the world struggling to BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA are not taking steps to expand control the Covid-19 pandemic The Vaccine and Infectious statement further notes: “The Along with the allegations levelled against the Health the technologies and shift to the and some first-world nations Diseases Forum of Sri Lanka Moderna vaccine has been Ministry over the mismanagement during the purchasing of newest technologies to expedite still reporting record numbers of last week issued a statement on approved in the US, Canada, the PCR test kits during the past few months, concerns have been the testing process and increase test daily deaths, pressure is mounting Covid-9 vaccines. UK, the EU, Israel, Switzerland, capacities,” he explained, adding on governments and health According to the Forum, the and South Korea.” In the UK, raised over the entire procurement process applied when that the speed of the test depends authorities to implement effective World Health Organisation the AstraZeneca vaccine has purchasing drugs and medical equipment. on the quality of the extraction vaccination programmes. Due to (WHO), through its been given EUL approval. The As learnt by The Sunday done by using reagents and this, international organisations Department of Regulation AstraZeneca vaccine has also Morning, there is no blanket therefore, it is important to use the have come up with 69 vaccine and Prequalification provides been approved by Argentina, approach applied for the purchase newest technological approaches candidates as of January 2021, advice on the acceptability Mexico, and Pakistan. “The of medical drugs and equipment, always to speed up the process. including 43 that are currently of vaccines considered for Drug Controller General of especially with regard to the Furthermore, the SLAGMLT in Phase I–II trials and 26 in human use. This is known as India has approved Covaxin state sector, as in some instances, President stressed that there were Phase II–III trials. At present, vaccine prequalification (PQ). from Bharat Biotech, and the hospitals directly purchase, three PCR machines available at more than 44 million doses of The global spread of Covid- Covishield from Serum Institute while the Medical Supplies MRI but the authorities are not Covid-19 vaccine have been 19 has created unprecedented for emergency use. Covaxin Division (MSD) and the State taking steps to replace the existing administered in 51 countries, at urgency for the WHO to act is yet to publish its completed Pharmaceutical Corporation (SPC) machine at the CEBH with one of the latest rate of roughly 2.27 beyond the regular process Phase 3 data. are involved in the process as the machines at MRI. million doses a day on average of vaccine approval and as a “The Chinese origin per requests made by the Health He also urged the Government to according to a media release result it has developed a time Sinopharma has received

Ministry. PCR tests have evolved conduct an impartial investigation by the Vaccine and Infectious limited Emergency Listing limited approval in China and Health experts urged the during the year and at into the PCR machine at the CEBH Diseases Forum of Sri Lanka. Procedure (EUL) to expedite UAE, and Sinovac has received Government to conduct a technical present, there are technologies which was obtained from Asian Out of these 69 candidates, only the limited use of vaccines for limited approval in China and investigation into the entire available to provide the test Development Bank (ADB) funds, one, the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, most deserving communities. Indonesia. procurement process followed by results within an hour. But as though the machine was said to has received approval from the To date only one vaccine, “Russian Gamaleya’s the Health Ministry. local authorities are not be worth around Rs. 200 million, World Health Organisation (WHO) Pfizer BioNTech has received Sputnik-V has received In the meantime, the Criminal taking steps to expand the the equipment isn’t worth even Rs. for Emergency Listing Procedure WHO EUL. The WHO in its approval for early use in Russia Investigation Department (CID) is technologies and shift to 70 million. (EUL). The vaccine has now been EUL process also considers and emergency use in Belarus conducting an investigation into the newest technologies to However, Kumudesh blamed the approved by the UK, European approvals received by stringent and Argentina. an alleged PCR test kits racket expedite the testing process officials at the Ministry of Health Union, Canada, Argentina, authorities like the FDA of the “Only a few vaccine which has been conducted by a for turning a blind eye to the Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, US and MHRA of the UK. manufacturers have provided group of officials attached to the SLAGMLT President corruption that is taking place at Mexico, Panama, Jordan, Kuwait, “Only vaccines that have their data to the WHO for Ministry of Health. Ravi Kumudesh key government institutions under Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, undergone Phase 2b or Phase evaluation for prequalification As of last week, the investigators the Ministry of Health. Switzerland, and Israel. Similar 3 trials with authorisation from for human use. Results of Phase have uncovered that payments had to contact Dr. Gunawardena and According to international to these countries, Sri Lanka is a relevant national regulatory 3 studies had been published been made to purchase PCR test other Health Ministry officials to studies, a PCR test is a very also in a rush to get down one of authority can submit their and forwarded to WHO only by kits worth Rs. 38 million without get their response over the alleged common scientific technique the vaccines, with the two prime proposal for PQ or EUL Pfizer and AstraZeneca. following the proper tender irregularities that had occurred that has been widely used in candidates being the Sputnik approval. “Regarding the Russian process and without the approval during the procurement process research and medicine for around V, a vaccine developed in the The Forum further noted: Sputnik V vaccine, a doubt has of the Director General of Health were futile. 20-30 years to detect genetic Gamaleya Research Institute, part “However, individual countries been created over the Phase I Services (DGHS). When contacted by The Sunday information. RT-PCR is a special of Russia’s Ministry of Health, could use the vaccine using an and 2 study published in the Further, it has been revealed Morning, MSD Director Dr. version used when RNA is being and the Oxford-AstraZeneca emergency use listing procedure Lancet. The Russian authorities that the PCR test kits procurement H.M.K Wickramanayake denied detected and it is now being used vaccine, which is being (EUL) after being approved by failed to submit original data process has been granted to any involvement of the division in as a test to detect SARS-CoV-2, manufactured in India. the local national regulatory for review on request. However, a friendly company under the said PCR test kit issue. the virus causing Covid-19. This authority (NRA). That approval on 11 December 2020, Russia emergency purchasing on the He said an investigation is being type of test has frequently been Sputnik V should be given by the NRA declared that they have given assumption that the signature/ conducted by the CID but no final used as a frontline test for Covid- Sputnik V was first announced after evaluating the safety and two doses to 1.5 million approval from the DGHS could be decision has been made. 19, as it directly tests for the in June 2020, when the institute efficacy data of the phase 3 trial. persons, but failed to declare obtained later. “Depending on the presence of the virus RNA. launched the vaccine’s clinical Two vaccines had been how many persons from Russia A senior official attached to the epidemiological estimates, we trials. By December 2020, approved by the FDA in the and how many from the rest of Police Department, who wished to place the orders with the SPC Gamaleya announced that the US, namely the Pfizer vaccine the world. remain anonymous, told The Sunday or World Bank since we have vaccine had an efficacy of 91.4%, and the Moderna vaccine. The Contd. on page 14 Morning that the investigations allocated funds for Covid-19. and the country began a mass were currently going on and several They are doing the purchasing, vaccination campaign, even statements have been recorded by tendering, technical evaluations, distributing the vaccine to other administration of these vaccines in issues, with the lack of approval the CID as of now. and all other things. Therefore, countries including Argentina and their respective nations. being the main one and the However, former DGHS Dr. there is no involvement of the Belarus. However, doubt has been Dr. Gunasena stated that the other being the vaccine’s current Anil Jasinghe has refused to sign MSD,” he added. cast on this Russian vaccine over SPC’s reasoning behind bringing position compared to the rest. two such tender documents, the When contacted, State the Phase I and II study published down the Sputnik V vaccine is Among the rest of the vaccine CID has uncovered. Ministry of Primary Health Care, in the Lancet. This was due to the there already being local agents for candidates, Sputnik V falls below According to the investigations, Epidemics, and Covid Disease Russian authorities having failed the top three vaccines. Therefore, fifth place, according to research payments have been made to a Control Secretary Dr. Amal to submit original data for review the SPC has opted to prepare the done by the WHO. German company for two tenders Harsha de Silva said that the State on request. relevant documents concerning Kumudesh stated that the worth Rs. 16 million and Rs. 22 Ministry has no involvement with Depending on the Speaking to The Sunday the Russian vaccine which has vaccine is also only present in million, respectively. As per the the said issue as well. epidemiological estimates, Morning, National Medicines no local agent. However, medical a limited number of countries tenders, the price of a PCR test Meanwhile, allegations have we place the orders with the Regulatory Authority (NMRA) experts across Sri Lanka have currently, with Russia not being kit is valued at around Rs. 4,000, been levelled against the health SPC or World Bank since CEO Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe voiced their criticism of the SPC’s too keen on distributing it to the while the actual price of the test kit authorities responsible for we have allocated funds for stated that they received a initial focus on bringing down a rest as of yet. was around Rs. 2,000. maintaining the proper quality Covid-19. They are doing the completed application for the vaccine candidate that is far behind He stated that going for a However, as learnt by The of PCR test machines, as the purchasing, tendering, and import of Sputnik V by the State the rest. vaccine that is not approved by the Sunday Morning, even though medical laboratory technologists technical evaluations, and all Pharmaceuticals Corporation of Speaking to us, a member WHO will also present a problem the tenders worth over Rs. 10 (MLTs) claimed that there is a other things. Therefore, there Sri Lanka (SPC). “The Russian of the Academy of Health when it comes to any side effects. million are yet to receive approval PCR reagent monopoly being is no involvement of the MSD vaccine is the only one we received Professionals Sri Lanka Ravi He explained that Sri Lankan from Cabinet, investigations implemented in the country that MSD Director all the proper documents for and Kumudesh questioned why the authorities will have to deal with have uncovered that the group of causes huge delays in issuing Dr. H.M.K Wickramanayake we have sent it to be reviewed by SPC and other government entities these potential side effects on officials had obtained the money test results. an expert committee. Until they showed interest in the Russian their own, as opposed to a vaccine by misleading the audit officer. They also alleged that the RT-PCR tests are fairly quick, have finished their evaluations, we vaccine; while the WHO has listed approved by the WHO, which will Investigations are being carried number of tests currently being sensitive, reliable, and capable of have no thoughts on the vaccine.” Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford- come with experience and better out by the CID as per information conducted at the Colombo producing results in three to four During a media briefing, SPC AstraZeneca as the top two vaccine response to those side effects. received by the State Intelligence East Base Hospital (CEBH) hours, although this usually takes Chairman Dr. Prasanna Gunasena candidates. Government Medical Officers’ Service (SIS). Accordingly, in Mulleriyawa has now been longer if samples must first be sent stated that while only one vaccine “We are going through a national Association (GMOA) Assistant statements from over 67 officials, reduced to around 200 per day due to specialised external laboratories has got the approval from the crisis, and there is a national Secretary Dr. Naveen de Soysa including officials from the MSD to the lack of the exact reagent that (six to eight hours on average). WHO, all the other vaccines are in requirement for these vaccines. agreed with Kumudesh’s statement and the Medical Research Institute matches with the PCR machine in Many diagnostic and research the final stage of their validation So, are we solely going to give the during a media briefing, adding (MRI), have been recorded so far the hospital. companies produce RT-PCR process for emergency use. responsibility of bringing these that Sri Lanka might not be able to by the CID. It is learnt that following the products, tests, and machines so He explained that these vaccines vaccines down to their respective cope with any issues that will arise Furthermore, a statement breakdown of the CEBH PCR the technology is widely available. have completed their evaluation local agents? And is the SPC only as a result of going against the from current DGHS Dr. Asela machine last month, another Some RT-PCR tests are developed and is in a position in which it can going to bring down vaccines with proper process. He explained that Gunawardena has also been machine similar to the existing as an “all-in-one” kit, reducing be sold in the market, with some no local agents?” the vaccine must get the approval recorded. However, attempts machine was received by the laboratory handling and the countries having already evaluated He went on to state that the of both the WHO and the NMRA. made by The Sunday Morning hospital as a donation but the potential of contamination. the data and approved the Sputnik V vaccine has several Contd. on page 14 the sunday morning 7 Sunday, January 24, 2021 SPOTLIGHT BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA TAX EVASION ATTEMPT Yet another tax evasion attempt was revealed in Parliament last week, with allegations being levelled against Bank of Ceylon (BOC) over a loan granted to a famous businessman, who is alleged to have links with high-ranking officials and Cigarette op goes politicians of the present Government, to purchase additional cigarette stocks in anticipation of a price hike.

With the previous allegations of granting sugar and coconut oil tax concessions causing a loss of billions of rupees to the Treasury, up in smoke? the Government now faces fresh price increase in the near future Bank of Ceylon head office from Anuradhapura. So why is he allegations of an attempt of evading and pledge over stock of cigarettes. in Colombo 1 going to the Katuwana branch to tobacco taxes by one of its supporters The said loan was first approved by apply for the loan?” he questioned. during their election campaigns. The reason was to the Credit Officer of the Katuwana While the benefit of the tax It is now revealed that the BOC Branch on 9 September 2020. concessions is enjoyed only by has approved a request to grant over purchase additional Nevertheless, at the time when several businessmen, as alleged Rs. 3 billion to a private company stocks of cigarettes on the pledge facility was approved by by Opposition political parties, owned by the said businessman. the assumption that the the Board of Directors at its meeting consumer rights activists are urging Being one of the most significant prices would go up with held on 25 September 2020, P. the Government to re-evaluate the state banks, the approval granted by the Budget 2021. The Rathnayake, one of the directors, had tax policies as well as to direct BOC raised concerns over the bank’s expressed his reservations with regard the Consumer Affairs Authority loan policies and priorities. Budget was to be released to the facility and had questioned (CAA) to take appropriate legal Furthermore, questions have also in November, and in whether, being a government-owned action against those who violate the been raised as to whether the state September, the request bank, this was the right sector the already gazetted maximum retail bank could provide such loans that had been made to BOC bank should promote, allowing a price (MRP) formulas. could indirectly cause massive losses NPP Leader Anura company to keep extra stocks on the It is also alleged that the to the Government. assumption that the price of cigarettes Government has lost roughly Kumara Dissanayake Raising the issue in Parliament, would go up. Rs. 10 billion in tax revenue as a National People’s Power (NPP) He had also expressed his Tobacco (BAT) holds a monopoly occasions in 2016, and the price of result of the reduction of the sugar Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake concerns that there would be no share of the local tobacco market, a cigarette of the most sold brand, tax, while in the meantime, the alleged that the controversial value addition to the economy from operating via its local counterpart, John Player Gold Leaf, was raised Government has allowed a private company named DS Gunasekara the facility and had highlighted the British American Tobacco Holdings from Rs. 32 to Rs. 55 (an 71.875% coconut oil importer to earn an (Pvt.) Ltd. has requested a total sum bank’s need to focus more on the (Sri Lanka). The company owns increase) as a result. additional profit of Rs. 175 million of Rs. 3,150 million (Rs. 3.1 billion) retail segment/priority economic 84.13% of the shares of the CTC, Meanwhile, as alleged by Voice last year. from the BOC Katuwana branch as a sectors to facilitate economic which is responsible for the entire Against Corruption Convener When contacted by The Sunday pledge loan. activities in those sectors. manufacturing process from Wasantha Samarasinghe, the said Morning, Co-Cabinet Spokesman “The reason, as mentioned in the He had further explained that the tobacco cultivation to cigarette company has obtained Rs. 2.1 Minister Keheliya Rambukwella loan application in September last facility is against the government production in Sri Lanka. billion from BOC and it has now said there were no discussions year, was to purchase additional policy of discouraging tobacco CTC owns 99% of the market been reduced to Rs. 750 million. within the Government to increase stocks of cigarettes on the consumption. with the remaining 1% comprising The loan has been granted at an tobacco taxes. assumption that the prices would The owner of the According to Credit Committee imported cigarettes. Almost 100% interest rate of 6.78%. “It is something the Ministry go up with the Budget 2021. The company is from meeting minutes, other directors of the tobacco used for cigarette “The loan has been granted of Finance should decide, but Budget was to be released in have concurred with Rathnayake’s manufacturing in Sri Lanka is as a pledge loan by keeping the there were no such discussions November, and in September, the Anuradhapura. So why is view, but considering the cultivated in the country, which cigarette stocks as a security,” held during the recent cabinet request had been made to BOC,” he going to the Katuwana longstanding relationship with accounted for approximately 3,000 Samarasinghe said. meetings,” he said. Dissanayake stressed. branch to apply for the bank and the recommendation tonnes of tobacco in 2014. He also raised concerns over Unfortunately, attempts made He questioned whether the state the loan? made by the Credit Committee, Tobacco tax in Sri Lanka is why the said loan was applied from by The Sunday Morning to contact banks provide such pledge loans to and also on the basis that the governed by the Tobacco Tax Act. the Katuwana branch. Treasury Secretary S.R. Attygalle Voice Against Corruption gather stocks on the assumption that facility would be recovered at the Tobacco tax was revised on two “The owner of the company is were futile. prices might increase. Convener Wasantha earliest, the Board had approved the According to the documents Samarasinghe recommendation made. seen by The Sunday Morning, the “Only one director has opposed loan is recommended by the BOC the request,” Dissanayake stressed. Katuwana branch Credit Officer Even if the Government is and Manager, Area Manager of increasing cigarette prices, it should Hambantota, Assistant General be increased by way of increasing Manager of the Southern Province, the tax. If the stocks are available Assistant General Manager of at Ceylon Tobacco Company PLC Branch Credit Range II, and Deputy (CTC), the Government could General Manager of Retail Banking earn good revenue from the price II to grant a concessionary interest increase. But since the stocks rate of AWPLR (Average Weighted are now available with a private Prime Lending Rate) (monthly) The reason for granting the company, neither the Government +1.0% p.a for the approved pledge loan, as stated in the document, nor the public will receive the loan facility of Rs. 3,150 million to is to purchase additional cigarette benefit, the NPP Leader stressed. the said company for six months. stocks due to the possibility of a In Sri Lanka, British American

Contd. from page 3

has given the two parties more time Over Rs. 6,000 increase The illusive... to arrive at a settlement over the in earnings daily wage increment issue by the Meanwhile, in the proposed “The wage structure that the end of this month, failing which he wage increment structure RPCs have proposed is to offer the would take action according to the presented to the Minister of Rs. 1,000 daily wage by adding Cabinet paper he has forwarded for Labour last week, the RPCs the productivity incentive and approval regarding the Ministry stated that they would offer a attendance incentive to the Rs. 700 amending the wage structure. substantial increase of Rs. 6,250 basic daily wage. So the difference We then asked the Minister of to the plantation workers’ monthly is not about the sum, but about Labour whether there would be earnings, with the daily wage the components that the RPCs an impact on plantation worker going up to Rs. 1,105, which will will be factoring into the wage daily wages from the amendments comprise the basic wage of Rs. formulation,” de Silva elaborated. proposed to take place to the 700, Employees Provident Fund/ He noted that he is not in a National Minimum Wage of Employees Trust Fund (EPF/ position to force a collective Workers Act No. 03 of 2016. ETF) of Rs. 105, attendance agreement upon the RPC heads De Silva responded: “The daily incentive of Rs. 150, and and the plantation worker TUs, as wage structure that is discussed and productivity incentive of Rs. 150. both parties should come to terms in effect at the moment will have “The Ministry has agreed to with the proposed wage structure no impact from the amendment, the terms that were proposed by amendments and devise a collective as the plantation workers’ monthly us; now the trade unions need to agreement on their own terms. earnings are way above the national be told about this. The existing minimum wage.” wage structure agreement will Alternatives to be According to the collective come to an end on 28 January; considered agreement signed with the Ceylon therefore, we are looking at “In my view, it is better to have Workers’ Federation, which drafting the present wage model a collective agreement, as the represents the Planters’ Union, that we proposed from that day workers would receive a fair wage, plantation workers can be paid a onwards,” Planters Association and they could suggest the terms daily wage of Rs. 750, including of Ceylon Chairman Bathiya on which the daily wage structure a fixed price allowance of Rs. 50, Bulumulla told The Sunday should be designed around. which is in addition to the basic Morning. However, should these parties fail salary of Rs. 700, attendance While the trade unions had to achieve or reach an agreement incentive allowance, and production presented several other requests in the coming weeks, I will have incentive allowance. to the association, Bulumulla to think of a new modality on The Employees’ Federation of noted that given the current delivering the promised daily Ceylon (EFC) has stated that the situation and the economic wage increment to the plantation daily salary can be increased up to condition, the RPCs have offered workers,” de Silva opined. Rs. 920, excluding contributions the maximum possible increment The Labour Minister indicated to the Employees Provident and to the workers this year. that he would have to call a meeting Employees’ Trust Fund with the In terms of policy and with the relevant Wages Board allowances of the price share ordinance amendments, those and propose an increase of the supplement. decisions will be the sole basic wage to Rs. 860, for which But the plantation unions have responsibility of the Ministry of the Government can pitch in the objected, emphasising that the need Labour, and the Department of allocated budgetary allowance of is for a daily wage increase of Rs. Labour and the Wages Board, as Rs. 140 and increase the plantation 1,000, which was a term that was trade unions had also requested a workers’ daily wages to Rs. 1,000. proposed to Parliament during the fixed pay rather than daily wages However, de Silva said that he 2021 Budget in November 2020. for the estate sector. the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021

An advanced copy of the report prepared by the High Commissioner of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Sri Lanka, which is expected to be tabled at Living the the Council in Geneva, Switzerland this March, has Govt. prepares as UNHRC been handed over to the Presidential Secretariat and the response to the report is currently being prepared ‘dream’ by the Secretariat together Through the ages, politics has often been described as the “art of the with the Foreign Affairs possible”. In more recent times, adapting to a world in transition, it has Ministry. been described as the “art of compromise”. Both hold true in today’s context. Inquiries from several It is said that politics is as old as the oldest profession, and is often as diplomatic sources revealed that pendulum sways before SL sleazy. Four years ago, Americans who had grown tired of traditional the contents of the report are politics voted en masse to elect a non-politician as their 45th President. By quite “damning” with references his own admission, Donald Trump had one job to do – drain the swamp. to specific instances of alleged z Advanced copy of UNHRC z Govt. to respond to High Four years later, the man who was supposed to drain the swamp human rights violations as well as became the swamp, and last Wednesday, America, along with the rest of the individuals involved. the democratic world, heaved a collective sigh of relief when Joseph R. However, the response to the High Commissioner notes Commissioner’s report Biden was officially sworn in as the 46th President of the United States. UNHRC report is expected to The world in general and Sri Lanka in particular have much to learn be submitted to the UNHRC ‘damning’ issues by Wednesday deadline from the epic failure of the American experiment which instead of draining in Geneva by Wednesday (27) the swamp succeeded in creating an even bigger one, complete with the and Foreign Secretary Jayanath stink of ultra-nationalism that almost brought the country to the brink of Colombage noted that the chaos and anarchy. Donald Trump, notwithstanding his boasts of being Government would definitely “the greatest president in the history of the United States”, will long be send its response to the Council remembered as the man who failed in the one thing he was tasked to do. by the Wednesday deadline. His final act on the last day in office, pardoning a bunch of criminals, Meanwhile, the Media the will likely be the last nail in his political coffin, if not the anticipated Secretary to the State Minister of black box conviction in an unprecedented second impeachment. Regional Co-operation Deshan Back at home, Sri Lankan voters, in keeping with the global trend Gonawela had told the media that by Capt. Vasabha pioneered by Trump, also elected a non-politician as the country’s seventh the Presidential Secretariat has Executive President in November 2019. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa received the said report and is Commission,” she had said at the now has a Herculean task before him: To steer clear of the destructive currently considering the formal time. Trumpian path by shifting to the centre from his party’s perceived ethnic stance that the Government of Sri She had further observed that outlook of right of centre. In doing so, he will have to resist the overtures Lanka should take regarding the the pardon granted last March to of the more extremist elements in his political coalition that may sooner matter. a former army sergeant convicted than later turn out to be a liability of Trumpian proportions. UNHRC High Commissioner of participating in unlawful Like Trump, President Rajapaksa was also elected to clean up our Michelle Bachelet, in her update killings; appointments of senior own political swamp, the stench of which had become nauseating to the on Sri Lanka’s human rights military officials allegedly greater majority of Sri Lankans. Although the previous administration situation to the UNHRC on 14 involved in war crimes and crimes promised to do the very same job through its “Yahapalana” – or Good September 2020, had noted a against humanity to key civilian Governance – administration, it was tainted with corruption allegations “negative trend” in Sri Lanka roles; and moves within the for the greater part of its tenure, with the Central Bank Bond Scam with regard to human rights. Police and judiciary to thwart the perched at the very summit. To add to its woes were the many acts of Bachelet last September raised investigation of such crimes, set a commission and omission with the Easter tragedy taking pole position concerns over the draft 20th very negative trend. in that particular list. Amendment to the Constitution. Bachelet had added that the In similar fashion to their American counterparts, Sri Lankan voters Speaking during the surveillance and intimidation of in recent times have shown maturity and not hesitated to dispense with opening session of the 45th victims, their families, human governments that have failed to deliver on their promises. The Yahapalana UNHRC Session, Bachelet had rights defenders, journalists, Government was one such casualty. Therefore, it is incumbent upon expressed concerns over the and lawyers should cease the current administration to walk the talk and deliver on its primary 20th Amendment at the time, immediately. promise of draining the swamp, paving the way for a clean and stable especially over its impact on the The High Commissioner had administration starting with the state sector. independence of key institutions also called on the Council to give To be fair by the President, he has been hands on from the word go including the Sri Lanka Human renewed attention to Sri Lanka, by focusing on cleaning up corrupt dens like the Department of Motor Rights Commission. in view of the need to prevent United Nations Human Rights Council Traffic, the Police Department, Pettah traders who control the supply Bachelet had also expressed threats to peace, reconciliation, of essential commodities and thereby control prices notwithstanding concerns over Sri Lanka reneging and sustainable development. A.H.M.D. Nawaz to study and The President has authorised gazette notifications, and even taking on the rice mafia, albeit with on its commitments to the The commitments to make recommendations with the commissioners to conduct or limited success. It is obvious that much distance needs to be covered on UNHRC. reconciliation, accountability, and regard to the processes that had cause the conduct of necessary that particular road for tangible benefits to accrue to the longsuffering “In Sri Lanka, I am troubled human rights which were made been carried out with regard to investigations and inquiries and public. As things stand, there is nothing to stop the administration from that the new Government by the Resolution 30/1 which the the human rights situation in Sri to transmit interim reports to the going the full distance in pursuit of this objective. is swiftly reneging on its former United National Front- Lanka. President where it is necessary. That apart, it is essential that the flames of racial disharmony which commitments to the Human led Government co-sponsored In an extraordinary gazette The final report is instructed to have once again been threatening to engulf this once war-battered Rights Council since it withdrew with the UNHRC in 2015, were issued on Friday (22), it was be submitted within six months, nation, owing to the arbitrary actions of a few, are doused as quickly as its support for Resolution 30/1. renewed in 2017 and 2019 in two stated that the CoI has been setting out the findings of possible, much the same way that the newly elected President of the US is Among other developments, the further UNHRC Resolutions. mandated to investigate and investigations and inquiries, and endeavouring to do in his own backyard by stretching out an olive branch proposed 20th Amendment to The new Government in 2019 report or take necessary actions recommendations. to his opponents, including the pseudo-republicans in the Republican the Constitution may negatively voiced its intentions to withdraw on findings of preceding These will include the findings Party. Ushering in the winds of change, “unity” was the central theme of impact the independence of from the co-sponsorship which commissions or committees on of the Lessons Learnt and Joe Biden’s inaugural address, which, in content and mass appeal, was key institutions, including the Government proceeded to alleged human rights violations, Reconciliation Commission a welcome departure from the abrasive style of his predecessor who in the National Human Rights complete in February 2020. serious violations of International (LLRC), the report of the UN the end proved to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing, owing to his not-so-tacit However, referring to the Humanitarian Law (IHL), and Secretary General’s Panel of support to the far right, right to the end. Those who lobbied contents of the advanced other such offences in Sri Lanka. Experts on Accountability in Little do our own ultra-nationalists realise that they are in the very for real reforms and copy of the UNHRC High The CoI, chaired by Supreme Sri Lanka (Darusman Report), same mould of the western fascists they proclaim to abhor, who have Wickremesinghe’s removal, Commissioner’s report, Foreign Court Judge Nawaz, consists of the findings of the Presidential reared their ugly head first in parts of Europe and now in America. The such as Navin Dissanayake Secretary Colombage noted retired IGP Chandra Fernando Commission to Investigate more anti-western they act, the more pro-western they appear, simply and Ravi Karunanayake, that the report contained certain and retired District Secretary Complaints Regarding due to the fact that their irrational actions play right into the modern-day were sidelined, while “factual inaccuracies” as well Nimal Abeysiri. Missing Persons (Paranagama western agenda of creating strife and division in the places they seek to Deputy Leader Ruwan as “misconceptions” that would The Gazette stated that the Commission Report), and all colonise through non-military means. Wijewardene, who was be addressed in detail in the policy of the Government of Sri the reports/resolutions of the Those days, our former colonial masters fomented extremism among promised the party Government’s response. Lanka is to continue to work with UNHRC. both the Sinhalese and the Tamils in order to make their job of ruling leadership, was left out of the UN to achieve accountability The Government, it is learnt, is over both that much easier. the process of appointing CoI on human rights and human resource development to apprise the UNHRC during its Today, the same tactics are employed so that a divided nation can be the new office bearers, It is in this backdrop that for achieving sustainable peace sessions commencing February less of a threat to their global expansionist agenda. erasing any doubt that his President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and reconciliation, even though of its intentions to amend certain Therefore, it is very much in the country’s interest that the rising wave position in the party was moved to appoint a three-member Sri Lanka withdrew from the clauses in the Prevention of of ultra-nationalism appearing in the familiar garb of patriotism is ideally less than meaningless in Commission of Inquiry (CoI) co-sponsorship of the UN Terrorism Act (PTA). The issue eliminated or limited to the fringes, where it could do no further harm practice chaired by Supreme Court Judge resolutions. of amending the PTA is handled to the fabric of national unity, already torn apart many a time and held mostly by the Foreign Affairs together by the most delicate of threads. Ministry and it is learnt that the Among the many home truths that Biden placed in the common American Attorney General (AG) has been conscience during his inaugural speech, the most relevant to us back requested to study and submit home was his emphasis on the fact that if true peace and prosperity is to certain amendments to the piece be achieved, then unity is an essential precursor to that. It is a universal of legislation. principle that applies to every country on this planet, desirous of achieving As for whether the Government the elusive twin goals of peace and prosperity. would be in a position to provide As long as fringe groups are allowed to rouse up racial tensions as and solid responses to the UNHRC when they please, unity will remain a distant dream. Sri Lanka will do until the CoI submits its report, well to take a long, hard look at the events that transpired in America the Foreign Secretary noted that over the last few months and save itself a whole lot of trouble by reining it would require some time to in the extremists, striding the middle path, and preparing the ground for provide a response on the findings true unity among its diverse people. For the powers that be, it is the surest of the new Commission since it and cleanest way to ensure political longevity. could not be completed overnight. Until such time, not only our political leaders, but more importantly the However, as for the possible people themselves lay claim to such enlightenment where the best among allegation by the international us can shine through to the top, irrespective of cast, race, or religion as rights body that the Sri Lankan shown by the election of a coloured woman with South Indian roots as Government was once again Vice President of arguably the most powerful nation on Earth, our dreams engaged in stalling tactics without of peace, prosperity, and equality will remain just that, a dream. And there providing any tangible solutions, lies the real-life lesson of the fabled American Dream. Colombage observed that the CoI is not a time-buying exercise, as the Commission has been No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. appointed for a stipulated time Fax - 011 2 673 441 frame. General - 011 5 200 900 Colombage further stated that Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 the Government was committed Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 to addressing the issues and E-mail - [email protected] concerns raised with regard to human rights and is also looking at resolving issues related to EDITORIAL/POLITICS Govt. prepares as UNHRC pendulum sways before SL z Govt. to respond to High z UN SG meets SL envoy in z Tamil parties discuss Commissioner’s report New York after receiving HR concerns with SL by Wednesday deadline Tamil parties’ letter Core Group Head UK Sri Lanka. hold the delayed provincial council massive concessions to foreign After sending out the letter elections. However, since of late, investors,” he said. to the UNHRC member states, the objections have been directed representatives of the Tamil towards the ECT and India’s Opposition in disarray political parties had met with the involvement. The United National Party (UNP) British High Commissioner in Ven. Magalkande Sudantha is set to endure another split, as Sri Lanka to further discuss the Thera, the Secretary of the 26-year long Party Leader Ranil contents of the letter as well as Sinhala Ravaya Organisation that Wickremesinghe reneged on his the required action to be taken to supported the President’s election most recent promise of handing address the island’s human rights campaign, last week charged that over the party leadership to Deputy issues. the Government that pledged to Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, which The fact that the UK is keeping a refrain from allowing the country’s he promised to do by January 2021. close watch on Sri Lanka’s human resources to be sold to foreign Instead, the UNP Leader again rights situation was evident with entities before coming into power, reshuffled existing positions in a the recent statements by the UK’s is now contradicting itself. game of musical chairs, replacing Labour Party Leader. “What we had paraded around Ravi Karunanayake with Akila UK’s Labour Party Leader Keir the country on our shoulders has Viraj Kariyawasam as Assistant Starmer recently stated that the turned out to be an empty mortar Leader, and Palitha Range current situation in Sri Lanka is shell,” the Thera had said. Bandara taking Kariyawasam’s of great concern to many of the Meanwhile, Ven. Elle Gunawansa role as General Secretary. Vajira Tamils. Thera had said that they will come Abeywardena was elevated to Starmer said in his Thai Pongal forward to protect the ECT, just as Party Secretary and lawyer A.S.M. message: “This is also a time for us the Sacred Tooth Relic protects the Misbah was made UNP Chairman. to reflect on the ongoing struggle Dalada Maligawa. D.M. Swaminathan and Arjuna for peace and justice in Sri Lanka. Ven. Medagoda Abayathissa Ranatunga were appointed The current situation there is of Thera last week claimed that Senior Vice Chairmen and Sagala great concern to many of you.” history will identify his name Ratnayaka, Daya Gamage, and The British MP had stated that among those who had worked to Sunethra Ranasinghe were made he also would like to express bring to power a leader who had Vice Chairs, among a host of other gratitude for the huge contribution betrayed the country. appointments largely doled out to the Tamil community has made The Thera had observed that the party members on the condition during the pandemic, “whether on present controversy over the ECT that they support Wickremesinghe’s the frontline of the NHS (National at the Colombo Port would play a entrenchment as UNP Leader. Health Service), as keyworkers in decisive role in the country’s future. Those who lobbied for real United Nations Human Rights Council our schools and public services, or He had further noted that it is reforms and Wickremesinghe’s must acknowledge that there is no those supporting their communities those who have safeguarded the removal, such as Navin prospect for accountability in Sri in running mutual aid groups. And country who have been identified Dissanayake and Ravi Lanka by way of its own domestic of course, we remember those who as national heroes of the country. Karunanayake, were sidelined, mechanisms or through hybrid lost their lives over the last year”. while Deputy Leader Ruwan mechanisms.” “This is also a time for us to Several Ranawaka supporters Wijewardene, who was promised “It is now time for the member reflect on the ongoing struggle for like Shiral Lakthilaka and the party leadership, was left out of states to acknowledge that peace and justice in Sri Lanka. The Maithri Gunaratne were once the process of appointing the new there is no scope for a domestic current situation there is of great arrested by the Rajapaksa office bearers, erasing any doubt process that can genuinely deal concern to many of you. regime for their efforts to help that his position in the party was with accountability in Sri Lanka. “I too am deeply concerned Sajith Premadasa take over less than meaningless in practice. The continuing and intensifying that the Sri Lankan Government the UNP leadership from Ranil The SJB, which has adopted an oppression against the Tamils has withdrawn from the 2015 UN Wickremesinghe. There are “I told you so” attitude towards the including militarisation, indefinite Human Rights Council Resolution echoes of the same dynamic UNP dissidents while extending detention of political prisoners, on accountability, justice, and taking foot once again an invitation for them to join their land grab in the name of reconciliation. Interestingly, it was former ranks, has its own issues. archaeological explorations, the “The UK must continue to Finance Minister Mangala Opposition Leader Sajith denial of traditional, collective land lead and be a strong voice on Samaraweera who came out in Premadasa has shown little interest rights like cattle grazing rights, international accountability. And the support of the Sri Lanka-India joint in building up a strong grassroots intensifying surveillance of political Labour Party will continue to work venture on the ECT. movement to take the Government and civil society activists, the denial with the Tamil community to call He commended the decision on, and instead appears focused of burial rights during Covid-19 to for justice and for human rights,” he taken by the Government to on building up his personal brand UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa our Muslim brethren, and the denial had said. develop the ECT at the Colombo without risking the ire of the missing persons – how many there that alleged war-time atrocities in of the right to memory underscore The European Union (EU) Port with the involvement of regime. are and the circumstances behind Sri Lanka are taken up by the UN the urgency of addressing the meanwhile has also expressed its foreign investors. The party is facing its own their disappearances. “Then there’s Security Council, the UN General deteriorating situation.” position with regard to Sri Lanka’s “As a true patriot, I am happy divisions, with Patali Champika the issue of reparations and the Assembly, and referred to the It is reliably learnt that the UN rights situation. about attracting foreign investors to Ranawaka receiving support from issuing of death certificates with International Criminal Court in Secretary General has received The EU office in Sri Lanka had develop the ECT,” he said. several MPs and senior party regard to the missing persons,” the The Hague in a new resolution on the letter sent by the Tamil parties tweeted recently that the EU was He said the political leaders figures as a viable alternative to Foreign Secretary added. Sri Lanka during the upcoming two days after the missive was saddened by the destruction of the who repeatedly said getting Premadasa. MPs who support The 46th Session of the UNHRC, UNHRC session. dispatched. monument at the Jaffna University. foreign investors involved in local Ranawaka point out that the set to commence on 22 February, Several civil society organisations A highly placed source observed “In view of this and other development projects was an act Government is clearly frightened of would therefore play a decisive role based in the Northern and Eastern that the Secretary General had in recent developments, the EU is of betrayal are now in a difficult him and his advancement, whereas in Sri Lanka’s future standing in the Provinces had also joined as fact met Sri Lanka’s Permanent ready to step up its engagement position because of the lies they in contrast, the SLPP seems international community. signatories to the letter. Representative to the UN Mission with Sri Lanka, including have told to deceive the public. extremely comfortable with and It was indeed interesting to in New York with the contents of through an upcoming high-level He said it is essential to attract supportive of Premadasa. Tamil parties see the Tamil political parties the letter. meeting, to support inclusiveness, foreign investors to develop the Several Ranawaka supporters The Tamil political parties representing the Northern and reconciliation, and fair treatment of country. like Shiral Lakthilaka and Maithri represented in Parliament that Eastern Provinces that bear The Government, it is learnt, is minorities,” the EU had tweeted. “There’s no need to recall the Gunaratne were once arrested by have launched a joint front to urge differences in certain political to apprise the UNHRC during It is also learnt that the EU is now revolution that took place in the the Rajapaksa regime for their the UNHRC to push for “decisive ideologies joining forces to push its sessions commencing looking at raising concerns with Sri country due to the investment of efforts to help Premadasa take action” due to the failure of a for action against Sri Lanka by the February of its intentions to Lanka on human rights and other the world’s largest communications over the UNP leadership from domestic process to investigate and UNHRC. amend certain clauses in the matters during a joint commission technology company to transform Wickremesinghe. There are echoes prosecute rights abuses during the “Leaders across the political Prevention of Terrorism Act meeting scheduled to be held later Sri Lanka Telecom from a of the same dynamic taking foot armed conflict in Sri Lanka, are spectrum in Sri Lanka, including (PTA). The issue of amending this month. department into a company. once again. now gearing to take the campaign from both the major political the PTA is handled mostly by The EU-Sri Lanka joint meeting “SriLankan Airlines, which Be that as it may, as long as the to the next level. parties, have categorically and the Foreign Affairs Ministry is to take place virtually due to has been running at a loss since various factions in the Opposition In the first step of the campaign, without exception stated that they and it is learnt that the Covid-19. its inception, made profits only continue their bickering and the Tamil National Alliance will protect the Sri Lankan armed Attorney General (AG) has after it was partnered with foreign infighting, it is the Government (TNA), Tamil National People’s forces from prosecutions. It is been requested to study and Govt. under pressure investors. that benefits from a free hand. Front (TNPF), and the Tamil now time for member states to submit certain amendments Apart from gearing for the “I am confident that this new While there were differences within Makkal Tesiya Kootani, in a joint acknowledge that there is no scope to the piece of legislation impending UNHRC sessions in investment will bring prosperity to the SLPP or “Joint Opposition” letter that was sent to the heads for a domestic process that can Geneva, the Government, led by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. block from 2015 to 2019, they of missions of the 47 UNHRC genuinely deal with accountability The Tamil parties along with the President Rajapaksa and Prime “A country like Sri Lanka can were handled so discreetly that member states recently, had called in Sri Lanka,” the joint letter noted. civil society groups supporting the Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, is only be developed and even jobs they barely ever garnered an inch on the Council to declare in a final The letter demanded that the cause have now decided to take currently facing growing dissention can be generated for the youths by of newsprint. The party kept a resolution that Sri Lanka had failed UNHRC pass a resolution that the campaign to the next level among the nationalist force in the attracting more foreign investors. united front with the objective of in its obligations to investigate “must declare that Sri Lanka by writing to the UN Security country over the proposed joint “Only a handful of people think dislodging the Yahapalana regime. allegations for violations committed has failed in its obligations Council as well as the International venture with India to develop the that attracting foreign investors is The difference is that this group during the armed ethnic conflict and to investigate allegations of Criminal Court. ECT. an act of betrayal. had strong leadership from the atrocity crimes, including genocide, violations committed during the The nationalist forces that first “Today, even the socialist Mahinda and Gotabaya Rajapaksa crimes against humanity, and war armed ethnic conflict and atrocity Setting the tone raised objections to the 20th countries such as Vietnam duo, whereas today’s Opposition crimes. crimes including genocide, crimes Sri Lanka’s human rights case is Amendment to the Constitution and Cambodia understand the is divided into pockets, each with The parties had called on the against humanity, and war crimes. being handled this time by the UK last year, afterwards took up the importance of foreign investors weak leaders fighting amongst UNHRC member states to urge In such a context, the resolution as the Head of the Core Group on issue of the Government’s move to in developing a country and offer themselves. 10 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 FOCUS

BY UWIN LUGODA “Secretary, Fisheries, According to Indian media, INDO-LANKA FISHERMEN’S CONFLICT Government of India, the High Commission had then The century-long fishing highlighted that the Indian side taken steps to send the fishermen conflict between Sri Lanka remains committed to working back to India and even issued and its neighbour to the constructively with the Sri emergency certificates for north, India, has made its Lankan side to address all issues those without passports and the way into 2021 with the arrest related to fishermen and their fishermen had left Sri Lanka of several Indian fishermen. livelihoods in a humanitarian last Tuesday (19) via an Air The Sri Lanka Navy recently manner and in line with past India special passenger flight to arrested 40 fishermen and understandings,” a media release Chennai. confiscated six of their on the discussion stated. Speaking to The Sunday Fishing in Moreover, the Sri Lankan Morning, the State Minister of fishing vessels, after having delegation conveyed the need Ornamental Fish, Inland Fish, and found them poaching in Sri to further enhance the joint Prawn Farming, Fishery Harbour Lankan waters. patrolling and operationalisation Development, Multi-day Fishing A communiqué by the Indian of the hotline between the law Activities, and Fish Exports Government noted that the arrest enforcement authorities of the Kanchana Wijesekera confirmed took place between the months two countries. that the fishermen were granted of December and January, Following this meeting, the Sri bail by the court and sent back to following months of no arrests. Lankan Government released the India. However, he explained that These arrests sparked protests troubled fishermen that were under arrest “as per the laws of the country in southern India, a bilateral and handed them over to the which were amended in 2017, discussion between the two Indian High Commission. while the arrested fishermen have countries, and the eventual release to be released on humanitarian of the fishermen last week. grounds, any fishing vessels that are taken into custody by the The conflict Navy or the Coast Guard cannot This has been an ongoing be returned to India”. conflict between Indian and Sri waters Wijesekera stated that the Sri Lankan fishing communities for Lankan Government previously centuries, with Indian fishing that leaves us in poverty; some of fishermen and the confiscation of on 9 January. Meanwhile, held 117 to 120 Indian vessels boats reportedly being free to us have even resorted to pawning the six fishing vessels. 5,000 fishermen operating 800 which were confiscated about poach off the Bay of Bengal, Palk our valuables to pay for all the mechanised boats also decided to three years ago, before the new Bay, and the Gulf of Mannar up damages the Indians cause,” said Protests in India go on strike until the release of amendments to the law were until 1974 and 1976. During this Moses. The first protest took place on their fellow fishermen. made. period, both Sri Lanka and India He explained that while 21 December last year, where However, while most of them signed treaties to demarcate the the number of poachers has family members of 36 fishermen Response from two govts. were returned to India, the rest International Maritime Boundary greatly reduced since the new who were arrested on 14 In response to the arrest and were set to be auctioned in Sri Line (IMBL) and to ensure Government came to power, they December raised slogans against the protests that followed, both Lanka, due to their bad condition, the humane treatment of any still see Indian vessels in Sri the Sri Lanka Navy for repeatedly Sri Lanka and India held the and the proceeds given to the fishermen detained due to the Lankan waters on a daily basis. arresting these fishermen and the fourth meeting of India-Sri Lanka Indian Government. violation of this treaty. He stated that the most recent seizing of their four mechanised JWG on 30 December, where Despite this, he claimed that Both the countries even agreed sighting was just last week, a day boats. The protesters who the Indian delegation was led the boats are unlikely to sell, and to set up a Joint Working Group after the release of the arrested numbered around 200, demanded by Secretary of the Department even if they were to sell, it would (JWG) on fisheries between fishermen. that the Central and State of Fisheries of the Ministry of be for a lower price. the Ministry of Agriculture and “We used to see as many as Governments ensure trouble-free Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Wijesekera further explained Farmers’ Welfare of India and 1,000 to 1,500 Indian fishing fishing by their fishermen. Dairying Dr. Rajeev Ranjan and that this together with the cost Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic boats off the coast of Mannar More recently, Indian media the Sri Lankan delegation was led As per the laws of the country incurred by the Sri Lankan Resources Development of Sri each day, but now, it has reduced reported another protest which by Secretary to the Ministry of which were amended in Government to maintain the Lanka in 2016, as the mechanism to around 25 to 30. But this took place on 11 January against Fisheries R.M.I. Rathnayake. 2017, while the arrested boats for the past three years to help find a permanent solution has to stop completely for us the arrest of another group of During the discussion, the fishermen have to be released will probably result in no money to the fishermen issue. to make a living. We have got Indian fishermen and their fishing Indian delegation had urged Sri on humanitarian grounds, being sent back to India. Despite this, the Sri Lanka together with other fishing vessel on 10 January by the Sri Lanka to ensure the early release any fishing vessels that are The newly confiscated six Navy arrested over 450 Indian communities and sent letters to Lanka Navy. The protest was of the 40 fishermen and their taken into custody by the Navy vessels are set to be handed over fishermen in 2017 and 156 in the Ministry of Fisheries and orchestrated by the fishermen six boats, and until such time to or the Coast Guard cannot be to the courts to be destroyed, 2018 on charges of poaching, even held protests, but we have associations in Ramanathapuram, provide necessary facilitation, returned to India auctioned, or given to the Coast according to a study released not got an answer. We voted which called for the safe release including consular access and State Minister Guard. in India titled “Fishing in the for this Government because of all the fishermen who were necessary assistance. They Kanchana Wijesekera However Indian media outlets Troubled Waters: Fishermen Issue we had faith that they will end being held in the Navy Camp also reiterated the need for reported that, upon arriving in in India-Sri Lanka Relations”. this problem for us; if not, the in Kankesanthurai, and their six releasing all fishing boats in India, the fishermen had made Other news reports recorded Indian fishermen are going to fishing vessels. Sri Lankan custody in line a plea to both Central and State a total of 210 arrests made in destroy the habitat of the fish, During this protest, they with the commitment given Governments of India to take the 2019, while 36 were arrested in our livelihoods, and the future also accused Sri Lanka by the President of Sri Lanka appropriate action to rescue their December 2020. generation of fishermen.” Navy personnel of allegedly during his state visit to India in boats from the Sri Lanka Navy. Speaking to The Sunday According to Moses, this recent damaging the fishing nets in 20 November 2019. Morning, a representative of the poaching of fish and habitat mechanised boats and hurling Mannar Co-operative Fishing destruction through unsustainable stones and bottles at Indian Society, Jude Moses stated that practices is what led to the Sri fishermen near Katchatheevu Indian fishing trawlers fish Lanka Navy arresting 40 Indian off the Gulf of Mannar and destroy both the fishing nets of local fishermen and habitats of fish. The destructive practice of bottom-trawling used by the Indian fishing vessels has long been banned in Sri Lanka due to the damage it causes. In the last couple of years, the Sri Lankan Government even introduced tougher laws banning bottom-trawling with heavy fines attached to the practice. “They come to our waters and damage our nets with their fishing practices, and in the end, we do not get any aid from either of the governments or any private organisations to help pay for the damages. Because of this, most of PHOTO© ADA DERANA our income goes into repairs and

Contd. from page 3

second-largest deepwater project of the Port. Japanese loan to the SLPA guaranteed by the evaluating any proposals submitted by any said that the expeditious development of the Of the planned 1,200 m terminal, 400 m was Government of Japan. private companies. When asked whether it is ECT will strengthen Sri Lanka’s place as a Still in... completed in 2015. The MoC was reached soon after China possible for the SLPA to develop ECT alone, major connectivity hub, while directly and The Colombo Port currently consists of was given a controlling equity stake and a the Chairman stressed that the SLPA has the indirectly creating thousands of jobs and three main parts. One of them is the Jaya A turning point for the 99-year lease of the Hambantota Port, and capacity, but since this is a national issue, it generating revenue for Sri Lanka. Container Terminal (JCT), belonging to the shipping industry concerns have been raised as to whether this should be viewed in a broader perspective. Furthermore, it stated that India’s SLPA. The South Asia Gateway Terminal According to the progress of the ECT deal is also a result of escalating geopolitical “The President views this in a nationalistic participation in the ECT is also natural, (SAGT) is owned by Sri Lanka and Phase I – Colombo Port Expansion Project competition between regional powers. angle. Even though the SLPA has funds, given that over 60% of the Colombo Port’s international entities, while a majority of the reported to Parliament, as of 2016, a 600 Following the recent visit of the Indian when considered in a nationalistic transhipment traffic is with India. shareholding in CICT is owned by China. This m quay wall was built, with 440 m-long External Affairs Minister, the trade unions perspective, there are number of advantages Minister of Ports and Shipping Rohitha terminal is located adjacent to the Colombo berthing facilities consisting of a 30 m rail attached to the Colombo Port intensified the country would receive,” he stressed. Abeygunawardena said the ECT will be further Port City. As a result, a terminal of sufficient span, a 20 m-wide back reach area, a two- opposition, urging the Government to As explained by Ratnayake, the SLPA is developed into an economic hub in the future. capacity for the SLPA to dock large ships does lane road, and a free area with revetments cancel the MoC. looking for an investment value of around $ He told the media that discussions are not exist within the Colombo Port at present. and a capping beam. A land side crane rail They alleged that steps were being taken by 500 million. currently underway with the Governments of Against such a backdrop, the ECT is and beam were also built, while a container the authorities to convert the MoC signed under “Including the funds that we have already India and Japan to connect with investors. under development by the SLPA, using yard was constructed on reclaimed land, the previous Government into a Memorandum spent on the ECT, as of now it is valued at However, the cabinet memorandum on the funds obtained from a state bank to comprising 12 dry stack lanes and one reefer of Understanding (MoU), by giving legal around $ 700 million. But we are looking for ECT, undersigned by Abeygunawardena on accommodate large ships. lane, with 30 m-wide yard peripheral roads. recognition to the tripartite agreement between at least around $ 500 million,” he said. 20 January 2020, assured strict adherence According to the SLPA, the Colombo Additionally, a terminal tractor parking area India, Japan, and Sri Lanka. Asked whether still there is a hope that to guidelines and recommendations in the Port Expansion Project (CPEP) is being corner revetment was built, and services and However, when contacted by The Sunday SLPA would alone go for the development, Memorandum of Co-operation (MoC) implemented in an area encompassing about utilities were completed. Morning, SLPA Chairman (Retd.) Gen. the SLPA Chairman noted there is a MoC between India, Japan, and Sri Lanka. 600 hectares. There will be three terminals: However, Sri Lanka signed a Daya Ratnayake said a final decision on the signed under the previous Government, Even though Sri Lanka entered into an South Container Terminal (SCT), ECT, Memorandum of Co-operation (MoC) for controversial MoC is to be taken following which is still in effective. MoC with both India and Japan, the unions and West Container Terminal (WCT), each the development of the ECT with India the recommendations by the two committees Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission claimed that Japan’s involvement is not clear, 1,200 m in length and possessing facilities and Japan at the Heads of Government appointed by Cabinet. in Colombo said the participation of India as they learnt that India is going to obtain to accommodate three berths each. The SCT discussions during 2017-2019, and on the Accordingly, the project committee is in the ECT will secure precisely such 49% of shares of the ECT. commenced operations in 2013 under Public Cabinet decisions taken on 30 May 2019. currently evaluating the MoC, and once investment as required in the much-needed When The Sunday Morning queried the Private Partnership (PPP) under a BOT basis The MoC provides for the formation of a the recommendations are given, the CANC capacity augmentation of the Colombo Embassy of Japan regarding its involvement with CICT and SLPA. CICT’s management Terminal Operations Company (TOC), of will look into the entire MoC and give its Port, which otherwise faces the prospect and progress of the discussions held so far, is handled by China Merchants Holdings which 49% is jointly held by Japanese and recommendations to Cabinet. of losing business in the absence of the Embassy stated that Japan, India, and Sri (International) Co. Ltd. Indian shareholders, while 51% is held by He said that the two committees were investment. Welcoming the emphasis by Sri Lanka are currently holding discussions to The ECT, under the CPEP implemented by the SLPA. Under the terms of the MoC, the currently looking at the MoC signed between Lanka’s leadership to attract more foreign finalise the details of co-operation to realise the Mahinda Rajapaksa Government, is the TOC was to develop the ECT based on a the three countries, and that they were not investment, the Indian High Commission the development and operation of the ECT. the sunday morning 11 Sunday, January 24, 2021 hot seat

to have delayed fuel stock unloads, which has resulted in the CPC paying added demurrages totalling Rs. 488 million in the last five years. How will the Government ensure that this expenditure is minimised? This loss could be avoided, and we will be able to do so in two years, because 2021crucial we will have two new pipelines. We will definitely complete this in 2022. With that being said, at present, a ship allows the consignee to unload the cargo within 72 hours, i.e., loading and unloading should be done within 72 hours. As loading usually takes less time, we will for energy sector have some leverage. However, at present, it takes us around 90-96 hours – that is why we had to pay demurrage and incur those losses that you mentioned. UDAYA GAMMANPILA But after the installation of these two BY SARAH HANNAN At the moment, there are only 99 tanks pipelines, which may take 18 months to in total in Trincomalee, and out of these two years to complete, by late 2022, we The dream to turn Sri Lanka into 99 tanks, 15 are utilised by LIOC, and will not have this issue at all. the energy hub of Asia is seemingly the rest are unutilised and left without a distant, as the energy sector is utility value. I have talked to the Indian In 2019, a cabinet proposal was submitted relying on outdated infrastructure Government through the Indian High by former Petroleum Industries Minister and has, at times, experienced Commission in Colombo. We have stuck Kabir Hashim to renovate the dilapidated several breakdowns and shortages to our conditions without being flexible. I oil pipeline at a cost of Rs. 15 billion whilst attempting to cater to the must be thankful to the Indian Government, by China Petroleum Pipeline Bureau growing energy requirement of the as they have now accepted our terms. We (CPPB). The trade unions opposed that country. This week on The Sunday are at the final stages of this discussion and move, indicating that local engineers at most probably within a month, I would be the CPC and CPSTL could renovate both Morning Hot Seat, we had Minister able to share the good news. pipelines at a total maximum cost of Rs. 5 of Energy Udaya Gammanpila, who I do not want to discuss the details while billion. Has the Government looked into was keen on clarifying the strategic negotiations are still ongoing. the proposal? plan that the Government has in The figures you have are wrong, as the place to ensure the sector addresses Upgrading the existing 75-year-old oil value of the tender awarded was not Rs. the lags and implements the much- pipeline system that is used to transfer 15 billion but Rs. 10 billion. If we can do anticipated upgrades. Following are crude oil to the Ceylon Petroleum this at Rs. 5 billion, then there is a 50% excerpts of the interview: Storage Terminals Ltd. (CPSTL) has reduction on cost – this was ignored by the been delayed despite the necessary previous management and, I don’t want to What steps have your Ministry taken work being initiated by the Yahapalana name the companies, but they were trying towards making Sri Lanka the energy Government. What steps are being taken to give it to a particular company, and hub of Asia? towards completing the upgrades? that is why another company went to the In order for Sri Lanka to become the Whilst the previous Government had Procurement Appeal Board, and thereafter energy hub of Asia, we need to work on initiated the Cross-Country Pipeline the National Procurement Commission three things. First of all, Sri Lanka should Project to replace the pipelines that are asked the Ministry to re-evaluate the bid. be able to process and export petroleum- 75 and 45 years old with new ones, it was related products. We should have the unfortunately done in a very haphazard Did the CPSTL management get back to required mechanism or refineries, and other manner, because there was no engineering you with the cost estimations to replace infrastructure facilities to import crude estimate or feasibility study. the pipelines? If so, what is the present oil and export the processed and refined By the time I became the Minister, cost? petroleum products to other countries. Once the Procurement Appeal Board had The cost estimations are approximately this is set up, we can attract that export recommended that the Minister should Rs. 5 billion. segment of the business because of our re-evaluate the bids, and since the location. As the Middle Eastern countries previous Minister had not done it, the Who are the private investors that have are the main oil-producing nations, we aggrieved party had gone to the National expressed interest towards setting up the can import crude oil from these countries Procurement Commission. new refinery in Sapugaskanda? and refine it and produce petroleum-based According to our engineers, they are Several companies have expressed their products to be exported to the Far East, PHOTO ESHAN DASANAYAKA in a position to complete the project at interest and several diplomats have talked mainly China, Japan, and Indonesia. one-third the cost that was quoted by the to me, but I have clearly informed them Secondly, we should attract the oil company that won the tender. Because of that for the first time in Sri Lankan history, bunkering business or supply fuel to ships. Thirdly, this is an industry that is worth that, I have already sought the opinion of we are going for open bidding rather than We plan to set up two refineries. One will be billions of dollars. For this kind of project, the AG, as to how we can exit the tender working with one company. at Hambantota as a joint venture between Sri investors need to put down at least $ 5 There are certain restrictions in agreements that have already been awarded Lanka and China, with the main objective billion – which is a huge investment, for using the existing oil tanks in and what kind of steps should be taken Has the groundwork to establish of it being to supply fuel to ships that would which they expect a legal framework. As Sri Lanka imposed by the towards that end. Once I receive the AG’s the oil refinery in Hambantota for be passing through what is considered the mentioned, there was no legal framework, Indo-Sri Lanka Accord however. opinion, I intend to submit a cabinet paper export purposes commenced? Once busiest international shipping route in the and I have submitted a cabinet paper under So, we are now talking to India, to withdraw from that contract, and build established, what are the products that world. As most of those ships originating the Petroleum Development Authority Act on how best we can avoid those these pipelines with our own engineers. the Government plans to export through from China also head back towards China, to provide that legal framework. restrictions and bring back the this refinery? having a joint venture with them is the best benefits to the country Trade unions have raised concerns that That refinery will process products such strategy to attract those ships to the island, Last year, you said the oil exploration the pipeline network from the Colombo as diesel, jet fuel, and bunker/shipping especially to the Hambantota Port, as it is on exercise returned positive results for Port to the Kolonnawa Terminal has fuel. But the Hambantota Port and Mattala this international shipping route. Then the three oil basins in the country. Have not been routinely maintained. What Rajapaksa Airport would use the jet fuel and second refinery will be in Trincomalee, also we already started the necessary measures will the Government take to bunker fuel. Then we will look at exporting as a joint venture, but this will be between groundwork in this regard? It was on 1 September 2019 that ensure the necessary maintenance work other products such as petrol, diesel, and Sri Lanka and India, so as to supply fuel to The three basins are the Mannar Basin, the fuel price was last revised, is carried out? other petroleum products such as lubricants, the Indian transhipment ships. Kovari Basin, and Lanka Basin. It is meaning we have not revised the First of all, I must say no trade union bitumen, and also other by-products as Thirdly, we should be in the business of confirmed that we have gas in Block M2 of fuel prices for 16 months. has made any allegations against their long as Sapugaskanda refinery meets the supplying jet fuel. the Mannar Basin, and there are indications We cannot keep the price at that rate management or the Ministry. domestic requirement and those products are These are the three steps that Sri Lanka that we have oil in the other two. anymore, and we badly Also, with regard to the pipelines, there produced in excess. should take to becoming the energy hub However, even with these resources, need a price revision are two issues: firstly, these are very of Asia. we could not attract investors because of old, as the life time of these pipelines is Treasury Secretary S.R. Attygalle in I have also planned to establish a new the weaknesses I explained to you earlier. approximately 30 years, but the existing December told us that there was no refinery with the capacity of processing As such, we should not go for another pipelines are 75 years and 45 years old. money left in the Fuel Price Stabilisation 100,000 barrels of crude oil per day at auction. Otherwise, as Einstein said, we So, all these pipelines were meant to be Fund after the fuel dues had been settled the Euro 6 standard, and in addition to will face another failure. We are going to go for oil replaced, and that is why this project has to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) that, upgrading the existing refinery to We will present the aforementioned act exploration. Of course we will only been initiated – the intention behind the and after lending the rest to the Ceylon process 50,000 barrels of crude oil per to the Cabinet, and the bill will be passed be issuing the license, and we will project was good, but the way they had Electricity Board (CEB) to settle the day, again at the Euro 6 standard. Right at the meeting on Monday (25), after fix our terms as to what percentage executed it was wrong, which is why we outstanding amounts to the CPC. How now, we are doing the feasibility study which we will go to the Attorney General’s we need as profit, royalty, and had to delay this and revisit what they had do you plan to recover these monies that for that, and we will most probably be (AG) Department to get its approval. After other taxes; meanwhile, it is up to done and come up with a proper plan. were lent to the CEB? able to commence the construction of the that, it is a matter of publishing it in the them to invest 100% and make If the fund was meant to stabilise fuel refinery during the year. Gazette and submitting it to Parliament. It their profit What is the estimated loss that the prices, the monies should have been kept may take at least three months. petroleum industry in Sri Lanka is for that purpose exclusively. Unfortunately, What challenges do we face in initiating currently incurring due to outdated the funds that were allocated for fuel price oil and natural gas exploration that has If we lack the technical expertise, which GDP (gross domestic product), and in this infrastructure? stabilisation were misused for a different been talked about for many years? country should we turn to for expert backdrop, the Sri Lankan Government is Most of these losses cannot be attributed purpose; that is why the Sri Lankan Although we have talked much about knowledge? not in a position to borrow further. to financial losses. Because we have old Government has a duty to not pass the this issue, it has not materialised for We are looking at Sri Lankan energy So, we are going to go for oil exploration. pipelines, there might be leakages from burden of increasing the fuel prices to the over 60 years. After my appointment as sector experts working abroad who Of course, we will only be issuing the time to time, but we fix these immediately, consumer, since we did not pass the benefit Minister, I found out why we failed. are willing to help their motherland license, and we will fix our terms as to what so there are no huge financial losses. of the price decrease. Firstly, we do not have competent people on a voluntary basis. There are a lot of percentage we need as profit, royalties, and The financial issues arise because of the I pointed this out at the last Cabinet that understand the technicalities of the oil Sri Lankans who have expressed their other taxes. Meanwhile, it is up to them to old refinery; because the percentage of meeting, and the President issued industry. When international experts come willingness to contribute their knowledge invest 100% and make their profit. furnace oil production is very high, and directives to the Treasury to transfer Rs. 48 down to Sri Lanka to discuss the potential towards exploring oil and natural gas. also since this refinery does not have a billion to the Fuel Price Stabilisation Fund of excavating oil or natural gas, our officers There were talks of restoring the proper hydrocracker, which can be used to for the exclusive use of the stabilisation of here have no in-depth knowledge to enable Your aim is to elevate this industry prior Trincomalee oil storage tanks and further process the furnace oil to produce fuel prices. them to answer the questions posed. That to the next presidential election. How reacquiring some of it under the other petroleum-based products. In that So, that is why we have come up with destroys the confidence of the investor. confident are you in achieving this goal? Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) sense, there is a financial loss, as furnace a formula for it. Although that fund was In addition, we did not have an oil or gas I am very confident that we can achieve from Lanka Indian Oil Company oil is very cheap in comparison to diesel, established, no fuel pricing stabilisation policy – which is now being drafted. We this. I don’t see why investors won’t come (LIOC). What is the progress on that? petrol, to other petroleum-based products. mechanism was in place. Usually, we need have recruited oil experts to our Secretariat here if this is profitable and is fully secure We cannot reacquire those tanks But with the new refinery, that problem to have a reference price, then a bandwidth, for this purpose. We are also planning to for them. It is a matter of having our because they have been leased for a will be resolved. and split – those are the three features of a introduce a new act, for which there will legal and policy framework in place and period of 35 years, since 2003, to LIOC. We are going to use the hydrocracker stabilisation formula. We are in the process be an expert panel. We know that there are marketing professionally overseas. That was agreed on in 2003 at a nominal of the new refinery to further process the of preparing those features and also in hundreds of Sri Lankan oil experts who As you know, the Sri Lankan annual rental of $ 100,000 per annum. furnace oil produced by the existing refinery. the process of appointing a management are working all over the world – we should Government is cash hungry at the To me, it was a crime – all those culprits committee for which I will submit a cabinet seek their advice for ministerial-level and moment, because of our credit exposure. behind this corrupt deal should have been The blockages that are reported from paper in the near future. policy-level decisions from time to time. Our public debt is about to be 100% of punished, but that’s in the past. time to time in the pipeline are said Contd. on page 14 12 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 FOCUS/VIEWS

BY DINITHI GUNASEKERA Concerns have been collected on child abuse cases raised over the safety within orphanages, Prof. Following the arrest of the of orphanages and Vidanapathirana remarked that Chief Warden of Avanthi children’s homes there is enough statistical evidence Devi Children’s Home in PHOTO © UNICRI to support the widespread issue of Anuradhapura, identified child abuse in orphanages. as Amara Weerasinghe, “In the recent Avanthi Devi on the charges of abuse case, however, we have got several and misconduct at the complaints dating as far back as institution, concerns over 2017 and 2018,” he explained, the safety of children within adding that the nature of young children is a barrier in getting down such childcare institutions such statistics, as children are have resurfaced. regarded as unreliable witnesses The said institution is involved during investigations, adjoining in complicity in alleged cases the 2017 and 2018 incidents which of child sexual abuse and other were unreported by the children irregularities. In light of these at the home during investigation circumstances, The Sunday trials. Morning decided to shed light on An official attached to the Police some important challenges such Children and Women Bureau, childcare homes and orphanages speaking to The Sunday Morning, are facing at present. explained that in the case of such a child abuse incident, police Funding and general investigations are commenced hardship through the complaints received. One point of interest is the Thereby, an inquiry is made, and in funding for orphanages and some instances, when due evidence childcare homes which has been is collected, suspects are arrested. affected due to the pandemic ORPHANAGES AND CHILDREN’S HOMES At times, children are taken into situation. police custody, as they cannot be Speaking to The Sunday arrested in the name of the law. Morning, an official at the Following the due proceedings, Department of Social Welfare, the first report complaint should Probation, and Childcare Service be made to the NCPA and the Affairs of the Central Provincial suspect should, in equal measure, Council, who wished to remain be produced before courts within anonymous, said the Department 24 hours, while the abused child oversees three government-run survivors are directed to hospitals homes for children, ranging from and a Medico-Legal Examination newborns to five-year-olds. Focus on Form (MLEF) of the abused Additionally, two probationary is produced to courts instead. centres that are completely funded Following this, the suspect may be by the Department are inclusive of remanded. vocational training programmes. However, in the recent past, In relation to private volunteer vulnerable groups due to Covid, the suspects were homes and orphanages in the area, bailed out and the investigations a small sum of Rs. 50 per child is of Social Welfare, Probation, and and difficulties within institutions, underprivileged, there is increased are conducted continuously while provisioned by the Department as Childcare Service Affairs, reported which as a result has caused vulnerability of institutionalised the NCPA continues the monitoring maintenance funds. a major shortage of vegetable and In the recent Avanthi Devi the condemnation of the very children in homes. process. Speaking to officials at the dry ration supplies, while other case, however, we have got concept of institutionalisation by In an exchange with National With regard to the case of the Sri Jinananda Children’s Home expenses are borne by its Founder several complaints dating as many. In addition to the overall Child Protection Authority Avanthi Devi Children’s Home, in Wellawatte, an initiative of and Executive Director Ven. Dr. far back as 2017 and 2018 general hardships in the face of (NCPA) Chairman Prof. Muditha Prof. Vidanapathirana said the Ven. Urumuththe Sugathananda Hunupolagama Vajira Sri Nayaka NCPA Chairman Prof. Muditha the pandemic is the existence of Vidanapathirana, The Sunday NCPA took it upon themselves Thera which provides a home Thera. Vidanapathirana particularly detrimental cases Morning learnt that the net annual to carry out a separate detailed to over 70 boys from across the SOS Children’s Village Sri of abuse – such as physical, figure of reported child abuse investigation to further look into island, we were informed that Lanka, an international non- emotional, and sexual abuse as cases islandwide is approximately the matter. the establishment is facing many government organisation (NGO), non-profit, is not funded by the well as neglect – to minors. 4,000, meaning it adds up to After the Avanthi Devi incident, hardships due to the decline of undertakes a completely unique Government. However, a monthly Speaking further to The Sunday around 350-400 first reports per a mechanism of communication sizable regular alms and donations model of institutionalised childcare allowance of about Rs. 10 to Rs. Morning, the official said that month. was established via telephone received as a result of curfews under their “family-like care” 50 per child is provided. We do in the area they are based in, not From there onwards, the duty conversations between the NCPA following the first and second concept model which fleshes it out fundraisers locally and we receive many recorded incidents of child of the NCPA is to monitor police and the children of the orphanages, waves of Covid. However, the of traditional orphanage models regular donations from our main sexual abuse are observed. investigations; as such, the relevant phrased by Prof. Vidanapathirana home is moving forward, mostly found locally. branch in Austria,” said Raali from The Sunday Morning spoke to officer at the police unit attached to as “child development sectors”. from their own expenses as well as Due to the prevailing the SOS Children’s Village. Minister of Justice Ali Sabry, who the NCPA is informed. It is made The NCPA has so far reportedly donations made via bank transfers. situation, even such a globally identified children as “the most sure that all victims are provided concluded this methodology The Vajira Sri Children’s interconnected organisation too is Vulnerable children vulnerable group in our society”. with adequate psychosocial support within 100 such child development Development Centre, a home facing difficulties in fundraising. It is not news that many hapless With the added burden of often by NCPA accordingly. sectors. registered with the Department “Our organisation, being a children undergo severe hardships being orphaned and economically When asked about statistics Contd. on page 14

Foster homes need Is the Ministry regulation fulfilling its role? P. Thiloka, daycare owner Hosni Imtiaz, Director of Imtiaz Designers I believe we hear more about child and In my point of view, abuse has been elder abuse in the media now. I believe rapidly increasing in orphanages and elders this is because we lack laws governing the homes. The reasons are the fact that people constitution of foster homes and orphanages. employed to work in these institutions don’t To nip this in the bud before it’s too late, the get paid well, and due to their frustration, Government needs to set a strict protocol on they try to take it out on kids and the elderly. how these institutions function, and penalise These kids and elders are helpless, as they those who do not operate according to the are unable to counter-attack due to their set guidelines. situation. Given the atmosphere and nature It appears that the Government doesn’t of these institutions, and moreover since no care enough about child abuse, as each and form of proper supervision takes place, these every one of them has their own agendas employees get some sort of satisfaction by to be fulfilled. However, I believe as abusing children and elders. responsible citizens of this country, we need Given the current situation, everyone is CHILD AND ELDER ABUSE to keep our heads up and please care for our focused on Covid-19. I firmly believe that children and the children of others, as we are the ministries handling these areas should PHOTO © ABDELLAH AZIZI a culture which protects children, not abuses prioritise these issues. For example, the them, and we need to prove that globally Ministry of Women and Child Affairs in our from actions – not just mere words. country is responsible for children’s homes. A SILENT, Outdated laws and So if the responsibilities can be fulfilled by the relevant parties, I believe we can a lack of awareness Awareness to prevent minimise cases. Mihiri Wanniarachchi, Attorney-at-Law victimisation The Ministry has to have proper rules I am personally of the opinion that child Dr. S. Manojkumar, dental surgeon and regulations when allowing institutions DANGEROUS abuse is increasing by leaps and bounds; to start up orphanages and elders’ homes. cases are getting reported in substantial Yes, they have been on the rise. The Routine checkups need to be carried out numbers, and that there are a magnitude of awareness of abuse in children and elders to ensure that the environment is safe for hidden cases as well. has increased significantly, leading to more people living there, and monitoring of these SPIKE Earlier in time, our parents taught us cases being reported. The child trafficking, institutions to see if they are following about stranger danger, thus creating a sense illicit drugs, paedophiles living within our government rules and regulations. BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI agenda, with a matron of an of caution in our minds, but nowadays abuse society, child pornography, and sadistic orphanage in Anuradhapura being happens at home – which is supposed to be individuals, seem to be contributing factors. Despite being highlighted in the arrested over allegations of abuse, the safest place for a child. The abuse of children in orphanages is The need for a media time and again, the abuse of and the surveys carried out on these Unfortunately, due to the cultural difficult, because they don’t have anyone support system children and the elderly alike seems actions, it has come to the attention restraints and ignominy, most of the cases to support them or report to, and the to be on the rise, with an increase in of authorities that these incidents are not being reported. The National Child management would monitor their calls. P. Premalatha, housewife the number of cases being recorded often go unreported due to various Protection Authority (NCPA) and the The NCPA seems to be working towards Abuse of children and elders in caretaking annually. According to a survey reasons. One of the key contributors National Child Protection Act No. 50 of creating a database for monitoring abuse institutions has increased. I have been a 1998 exist, but they cannot cut the mustard, around the island. The help line, 1929, is witness to a child being smacked for refusing carried out in the Jaffna District in towards this non-recording of 2018, out of 246 responders who as they are outdated. available to help those vulnerable children. to have lunch with the rest of his inmates most cases of abuse is the fact The lack of new laws, national guidelines, Schools should have sexual education at a children’s home. These individuals have reportedly carried out child that abusers tend to be the family and awareness of sex education has given classes to help children understand what are helpless. Even in situations of physical abuse, 156 individuals, which is members or guardians of victims. rise to these horrifying consequences. is abuse and inappropriate touching. or sexual abuse, they do not have anyone 63.4%, were doctors. Thus it may In discussion with how the School awareness programmes are very Counselling services should be made to report to. I believe it is important that appear that education does not play Government can tackle the problem important for parents and children, and also readily available to students, and the the Government takes steps to encourage a part in these horrendous actions. of abuse, The Sunday Morning spoke the huge space between school and society children shouldn’t be cornered if the one schools to educate children and parents about However, with recent developments to a few members of the society, and needs to be wrapped up with awareness who has been indulging in the practice abuse, with help lines and authorities to in the national child protection about child abuse, as social media is eating seems to be in higher power, and a fair trial reach out to in situations of abuse. here’s what we found out: up the empty minds of people. should take place. Contd. on page 14 the sunday morning 13 Sunday, January 24, 2021 FOCUS

BY SARAH HANNAN yellow bag in a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) (25 As we continue to battle the microns or 100-gauge thickness) Covid-19 pandemic with or low-density polyethylene newer strain mutations (LDPE) (55 microns or getting reported at an Pandemic priorities 250-gauge thickness) polythene incremental rate even a bags. In the absence of a yellow bag, it is instructed that the items year later, the world is also be discarded in a HDPE or LDPE accumulating an increasing polythene bag and should be amount of medical waste labelled as special waste or have due to the increased use killing environment a yellow ribbon/cloth strip tied of personal protective to it for easy identification by the equipment (PPE). garbage collectors The increase in use of disposable z Facemasks choke the ocean yy Alternatively, PPE such gowns made from polyester or as surgical facemasks and polyethylene, such as surgical disposable gloves are to be masks, gloves, N95 respirators, collected in a garbage bag and face shields (polycarbonate or handed over to the nearest state polyvinyl chloride), as well as hospital, so they could dispose of hand sanitisation products with it along with their clinical waste packaging made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for alcohol and other disinfectant solutions, has presented a new challenge in If one is to walk 100 metres waste management which is also on a beach stretch, they would contributing towards the growing easily be able to spot at least 70 environmental consequences related disposable facemasks that have to plastic use and follow-up waste. washed towards the ocean and It is estimated that in 2025, Sri beached Lanka will be contributing at MEPA General Manager least 10% of the total waste Dr. Terney Pradeep Kumara that is added to the ocean Most of these PPE comprise Regional estimations single-use plastic. Therefore, it Sarawut Sangkham from the was found that during the peak of Department of Environmental the outbreak, hospitals in Wuhan Health of the School of Medicine produced more than 240 tonnes of of the University of Phayao in waste per day in comparison to the Thailand, in a case study published 40 tonnes that were earlier produced on Elsevier titled “Facemask and during normal circumstances, medical waste disposal during with most of the waste comprising Managing the increasing pandemic- the novel Covid-19 pandemic in plastic PPE. related waste generation categories Asia”, indicated that Sri Lanka The Marine Environment had estimated to have generated Protection Authority (MEPA) to the Indian Ocean amounted to centres, areas that were under 11.12 tonnes of medical waste per indicates that on average, the seas 640,000 metric tonnes per year. The isolation, and homes that were day during the Covid-19 pandemic around the Sri Lanka Harbour Ministry of Environment estimated following home quarantine with the total daily facemask usage carry about 33,000 tonnes of solid that Sri Lanka was disposing of procedures, as special waste. estimated to be 17,136,519. waste, including polythene and an estimated six million surgical The guidelines put forth are as During the study it had been plastics that are carried across from facemasks per day, due to the follows: estimated that the total medical the waterways. With the ongoing wearing of facemasks when in waste generated in Asia is around yy Facemasks and gloves are to be pandemic, the medical waste that public places being made mandatory 16,659.48 tonnes/day, among which discarded and segregated along is being dumped adjacent to the following the commencement of the highest medical waste was with other household waste items waterways, are also adding to the the second wave of Covid-19 in found to be generated from India such as tissues, handkerchiefs, waste that is getting released to the October 2020. (6,491.49 tonnes/day), followed by sanitary pads, diapers, and any ocean on a daily basis. Amidst all these findings, Sri Iran (1,191.04 tonnes/day), Pakistan other material contaminated by “Today, among the other waste Lanka being listed as one of the (1,099.30 tonnes/day), Saudi Arabia bodily fluids and plastic debris that we happen top 10 countries that are releasing (1,083.17 tonnes/day), Bangladesh to see on the beaches of Sri Lanka, pollutants to the ocean due to yy The disposed items are to (927.81 tonnes/day), and Turkey we are seeing an increased amount to spot at least 70 disposable Terney Pradeep Kumara told The mismanaged waste is also not be collected in a leak-proof (908.07 tonnes/day). of PPE surfacing as well. If one facemasks that have washed Sunday Morning. helpful. It is estimated that in 2025, is to walk 100 metres on a beach towards the ocean and beached,” Dr. Kumara also noted that in a Sri Lanka will be contributing at stretch, they would easily be able MEPA General Manager Dr. study conducted last year, the total least 10% of the total waste that is amount of disposable facemasks added to the ocean. that were produced globally had been estimated to be 56 billion, out Guidelines in place of which 1.5 billion were estimated yy In order to take control over to have reached the oceans due to the mismanaged waste disposal mismanaged waste disposal. that is taking place across Although Sri Lanka has taken the country, with the public a step in the right direction carelessly dumping PPE on the towards introducing the single-use roadside and near waterways, plastic usage ban and companies the Government of Sri Lanka, now being asked to phase out after consulting experts from the their products introduced to the Ministry of Health, the Ministry market in the coming months, the of Environment, the Ministry of Government has to find methods Provincial Councils and Local to deal with the mounting medical Government, and the Western waste problem. Province Waste Management In a study carried out for Blue Authority, decided to categorise Ocean on Clean Cities last year, the disposing PPE and any waste amount of plastic Sri Lanka added generated from quarantine

ILLEGAL LAND FILLING IN KESBEWA Allegations and counter allegations With recent reports of a paddy land under lands had been forcefully acquired by the Urban Council would have had to spend debris was transported to the site in question Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation the administrative region of the Kesbewa councillors to build a drainage system and about Rs. 2.5 million to complete the task. after all approvals had been obtained and for comment proved futile. Urban Council being filled by the Moratuwa a water tank, in exchange for other lands to upon the request of the Kesbewa Urban When inquired from the Minister of Municipal Council, JVP councillors had engage in farming. Moratuwa waste properly Council Chairman. Therefore, they refuted Land S.M. Chandrasena as to what action raised concerns over the illegal filling of However, the farmers claimed that they disposed the allegations which indicated that it was the ministry is planning to take over a paddy land, violating the ban that the had not been notified of any such exchange Moratuwa Municipal Council illegal land filling. any unlawful filling of paddy lands or Government had imposed on filling paddy of land or that the area was earmarked for meanwhile informed The Sunday Morning encroachments that are reported over lands lands that could otherwise be repurposed for development work. that they were disposing of their garbage Multiple permits required that belong to the state, he explained that cultivation in the present climate. JVP Urban Councillor Pradeep Nishantha at the Karadiyana Waste Disposal site. According to the Sri Lanka Land properties that belong to the Department It was alleged that the Moratuwa Vedamulla, speaking on behalf of the “We were issued a court order which Development Corporation, one could of Land as well as the Land Development Municipal Council was dumping debris in farmers, had stated that the farmers should bans us from now sending non-recyclable submit a request if they are looking to Corporation have been encroached by an unutilised paddy land with the consent of have been compensated for the destruction waste to Karadiyana since 12 January. develop paddy lands or low-lying lands. various entities in the past. “Last week, we the Kesbewa Urban Council Chairman. of their cultivations. Prior to that, for about a two-decade The application should be supported with appointed a special Police Investigation The Sunday Morning reached out to When asked about these incidents, Perera period, we were dumping our waste at a letter from the Commissioner General Unit to look into these matters and have also the Kesbewa Urban Council Chairman noted that there were several councillors that the Karadiyana Waste Disposal site. They of Department of Agrarian Development, set up a hotline under the short code 1931, Lakshman Perera regarding the matter. always turned development related work have now introduced a new disposal site one copy of deed, extracts of the land so the public could report such incidents Responding to the inquiry, Perera noted: into political protests, as they always want in Kelaniya. We have planned to set up (obtained within one month) of the land to this unit directly,” further explained “The land in question has been barren for to portray the governing political parties to our own waste management project.” and three copies of the survey plan. A Chandrasena. over 40 years, and I permitted the Moratuwa be breaking the law. According to the Moratuwa Municipal non-refundable advance of the processing Chandrasena also noted that the past Municipal Council to fill it with demolished “I can assure you that we have Council Mayor Samanlal Fernando, from fee (Rs. 5,000 plus VAT+NBT) should be governments had misused their political building debris. Once the unutilised paddy taken all necessary approvals from the 12 January onwards, they have started paid. powers and acquired these lands to be land is filled, we will be converting it into Department of Agrarian Development, to categorise the waste and all waste that Based on the type of development work repurposed for their personal needs or to a playground. The paddy land was donated Land Development Commission, and have cannot be recycled is sent to the Insee that is to take place, permits/approvals the benefit of their kin. Any such activities by the people of Kesbewa to the Council, obtained the necessary permits from the Cement Company in Puttalam to be should also be obtained from the Urban are to be inquired and investigated and the as they wanted to fulfil the common Central Environmental Authority (CEA) incinerated. Development Authority (UDA), CEA, local special Police Unit that is headed by Senior requirement of building a playground in the prior to embarking on this project,” Perera “Rigifoam, paper, polythene, plastic, authority, Irrigation Department, and the DIG of Police Sumith Edirisinghe and SSP area.” elaborated. and any waste that has mixed material is Road Development Authority. J.H.M.N. Jayapathma will look into these In September 2020, there was another In addition to that, Perera also noted sent to Puttalam. We sent our first batch of The land is then inspected by an engineer matters. incident where a protest was staged by that the land extent in question was being about seven tonnes of waste to Puttalam for from SLLRDC and officers from the UDA The Ministry is to take strict legal action farmers in the Raththanapitiya area against filled with debris free of charge, since the incineration in their kilns.” and CEA to see whether the development against such entities that have encroached or the unlawful acquisition of working paddy two councils are in agreement. As Perera Regarding the matter of the paddy land would affect geological, drainage, and squatted on state-owned lands regardless of lands by the local council. explained, had the land filling been given filling, the Moratuwa Municipal Council environmental conditions, etc. their political affiliations or social status. It was reported that the low-lying paddy to a different company, then the Kesbewa Engineering Department noted that the All attempts to contact the officials at the – Sarah Hannan 14 the sunday morning Sunday, January 24, 2021 PICTORIAL/SPOTLIGHT

Depositors of ETI Finance protesting outside The Finance Co. office Ven. Medagoda Abhayathissa Thera from the Sunethra Devi Pirivena premises in Colombo last Wednesday (20) demanding that their addressing a conference on Islamist extremism that was held at the The new office bearers of the United National Party (UNP) including Vajira Abeywardena, Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, monies be returned Thunmulla Buddhist Temple on Thursday (21) Palitha Range Bandara, Sunethra Ranasinghe, and Daya Gamage were inducted at Sirikotha on Thursday (21) PHOTOS LALITH PERERA, PRADEEP DAMBARAGE, KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM, SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA, ESHAN DASANAYAKA

weekat a Members of the Progressive Women’s Collective staged a protest outside the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment glance (SLBFE) in Battaramulla on Tuesday (19) requesting the Health staff who were conducting PCR tests in Kirupalone Parents lined up outside the Maradana Vidyodaya Pirivena last Government to repatriate migrant workers without asking being disinfected with spray last Monday (18) Wednesday (20) to obtain free textbooks provided by the Government them for large sums of money Contd. from page 12 Contd. from page 11

You had stated in December that In the US, prices reached minus the fuel prices will be revised values, because you pay the buyer to annually? Can we manage by purchase petroleum products, to get Focus on... 2021crucial... only revising fuel prices in such a the tank empty to accommodate the Officials at the NCPA have He also mentioned that this Does that mean we do have a Fuel because then the price would be manner? inward ship cargo. then met with the Minister expert advisory committee Price Stabilisation Fund? When do too cheap and people will consume I was misquoted by the media as As such, cash-rich countries such of Justice, following which will be working closely with you plan to introduce this new fuel more; this would mean there will be having said so. What I said was that as Japan and Kuwait are planning the Minister had proposed the NCPA and Minister of price stabilising formula? a huge foreign currency outflow. we have not revised the fuel price to now have storage facilities to the involvement of the Education Prof. G.L. Peiris, Yes, of course. Although funds have Then, at a certain point, we have for more than one year. It was on 1 store excess fuel, as that would be United Nations Development under whose Ministry the been used for a different purpose, we to stop it. At this point, the funds September 2019 that the fuel price an investment similar to that of Programme (UNDP) to assist relevant state ministry are going to get the funds back to the that were accumulated in the Fuel was last revised, meaning we have investing in gold. Because when in the mitigation of this issue comes. exact amounts that were misused. Price Stabilisation Fund will be not revised the fuel prices for 16 prices go up, they can sell their stock through the provision of The aim is to look into So, the fund will be back, but there exclusively invested in government months. We cannot keep the price and make huge profits. necessary resources. reforming and amending is no mechanism yet. When we say a bonds and treasury bills, and when at that rate anymore, and we badly It is true that we have tanks, and as adoption laws to make reference price, that means the price the fuel prices go up, we will use the need a price revision. I mentioned before, we are talking to Adoption laws and adoption a more accepted will be stabilised. For instance, say same mechanism where the fund will the Indian Government to determine pending reforms norm, said Sabry, reinstating Rs. 140 is the reference price. If the once again bear 70% of the burden What are your thoughts on Japan how to use these unutilised tanks for The current framework that adoption is a rarity in price then goes down by Rs. 10, 70% and 30% would be passed on to and Kuwait creating a joint the benefit of Sri Lanka. regarding child adoption Sri Lanka, which is often for example will be taken to the fund the consumer, in the context of the petroleum reserve for Southeast There are certain restrictions in laws in Sri Lanka, as per discouraged systematically and 30% will be passed on to the example I gave. Asia? Would we also look at using the existing oil tanks in Sri the Adoption of Children under the influence of dated consumer. That 70:30 ratio would be After a certain point, when the similar projects? Lanka imposed by the Indo-Sri (Amendment) Act No. 38 of laws. considered the split. The bandwidth fund is totally exhausted, we will Those countries decided to do Lanka Accord however. So, we are 1979, is noted to be among “There are some laid- would be Rs. 10 for example – that is, have no choice but to pass it on to that because, especially last year in now talking to India on how best we the pioneer causes for the down conditions that work with every Rs. 10, we will be revising the consumer. March and April, we witnessed the can avoid those restrictions and bring need for more children to be as a deterrent for adoption,” the price. We are working on the mechanism lowest prices in the global petroleum back the benefits to the country. institutionalised. explained Sabry, pointing Then after a certain point, when of incorporating those three features. sector. In fact, it would have been I do not want to discuss details, In order to be an eligible towards three different prices go down further, we cannot We hope to submit a cabinet paper the lowest prices that the sector as it may disturb the ongoing parent for child adoption: aspects of adoption which pass the benefit to the consumer, for approval within a month. witnessed after several decades. discussions and negotiation process. will be the focal point of yy The applicant must be reform discussions. Contd. from page 6 more than 25 years of age He further spoke on a yy The age gap between the foster parent scheme to be applicant and the adoptee introduced, which would Sri Lanka... The vaccine... the WHO, which has pledged to the local registration process. When must be over 21 years focus on a foster care- provide 20% of the requirement of such is not available, it is essential yy based approach rather than “The WHO approves a vaccine “A recent independent study from the vaccine for low middle-income that NMRA follow the due process If the adoptee child is 10 sending children in masses after it has completed clinical testing, UAE suggested that the efficacy countries. Sri Lanka has already in very carefully examining the data years or older, his or her to large-scale government- so we need its approval, and we of Sinopharma vaccine is about made the application to COVAX and submitted. It’s learnt that the NMRA consent is needed run or privately managed will only inform the people of the 84%. But in Peru, the Phase 3 is hoping to get a vaccine soon. is ready to do so in the most efficient yy An adoption order will not orphanages. The foster vaccine after carrying post-marketing trial with Sinopharma vaccine has “In Sri Lanka, the regulatory manner due to the need of the hour. be made if: care scheme, proposed by surveillance within a couple of been abandoned due to severe side body responsible for registration is “Different manufacturers have y Prof. Vidanapathirana to months.” effects. Data from Brazil suggest that the National Medicines Regulatory different claims about their vaccines. y The sole applicant is a the Minister, is currently The Government Nursing Officers Sinovac vaccine has only an efficacy Authority (NMRA). It is essential The most credible evidence about the male and the adoptee child observed to be the best and Union President Saman Rathnapriya of 50%. Countries such as Morocco, to get NMRA approval before any safety and efficacy would be what they is female safest option in terms of also spoke against the import of Bahrain, and UAE have shown vaccine is used inside Sri Lanka even publish specially about their Phase 3 yy Without the approval of child security and overall the Russian vaccine, and stated that their willingness to buy Sinopharma if it is imported by the Government. data in peer reviewed journals. the applicant’s spouse wellbeing. many international medical experts vaccines for emergency use. For such approval, a local agent will “With the current dilemma In addition, Sabry stated are not accepting the details and the “High income countries have have to apply for registration and of vaccine efficacy and safety yy All parties involved have plans to digitally connect 515 success rate of Russia’s vaccine. already made agreements for so far we understand that no such issues and the uncertainty of the not given their consent orphanages through a 24/7 This is due to a lag in receiving the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca properly completed application has claims made by individual vaccine A noteworthy fact is that CCTV monitoring system are relevant details of the vaccine, as vaccines. Some are planning to buy been received by NMRA from any manufacturers, we fully understand only children up to the age of underway. the Russian officials have deemed it the Chinese Sinopharma vaccine or vaccine manufacturer. Sri Lanka’s the need to strictly apply the standard 14 can be adopted. Multiple attempts made confidential. Sinovac vaccine. Russia claims that drug regulatory laws do not have procedure of approval of any Minister Sabry revealed by The Sunday Morning to there are over a dozen countries who provisions for EUL. What they medicinal product in this country that a subcommittee has been contact the State Ministry Oxford-AstraZeneca have agreed to buy their vaccine. could do is to give registration for a for approving a vaccine for Covid- appointed to further look into of Women and Child Speaking to us, the Chief Advisor “Sri Lanka is seeking to get the limited period or waive registration 19 in Sri Lanka too and wish to the existing adoption laws. Development proved futile. to the President and Head of the vaccine through COVAX, which on batch-to-batch basis. The WHO endorse the need for our regulatory newly-appointed Presidential Task is an organisation which includes pre-qualification will help NMRA in authorities to act accordingly.” Force for Sri Lanka’s Covid-19 vaccination drive Lalith Weeratunga stated that while officials still do and Mauritius at the time, due to the compromised immunities and two Distributing the vaccine A silent... not know which vaccine will come lack of proper regulatory clearances. shots of the Oxford-AstraZeneca to Weeratunga stated that frontline first, the most likely candidate is the “Why did the SPC and other local the rest, in order to match the 95% of workers in health, military, and A holistic solution families and facilitating Oxford-AstraZeneca which is being agents not move earlier to get proper the Pfizer-BioNTech.” other sectors, as well as people Janega Guruge, primary education would manufactured in India. As of last approvals to get this vaccine down? Despite the initial setback, over the age of 60 with non- be the way to help these Wednesday (20), the Health Services It has a much better track record than Weeratunga stated that they expect communicable diseases and select Attorney-at-law children. Deputy Director General Dr. the Russian one. If we look at these the Indian vaccine to be the first to individuals between 50 to 59 years Yes, there is an increase Hemantha Herath told the media that other countries, they are not that arrive in Sri Lanka as a donation, of age that are deemed important in abuse of children and Suffering in silence all the preparations have been made different to us, but we seem to be following which there will also be a to the smooth functioning of the elders. I believe the only N. Perera, activist for the importing of the Oxford- lagging behind them in this process”, vaccine donated from China. economy, will be the primary way to curb this situation AstraZeneca vaccine from India. Kumudesh said. “We have two donations in the recipients of whichever vaccine is by establishing an The reported cases in He stated that health units in the According to him, developed pipeline so far; one is the donation is brought down. These segments updated national plan to reference to violence country are prepared to distribute the countries are likely to start of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine are expected to cover 20% of the protect children and senior amongst children and elders vaccine, as per the priority list, as monopolising the top vaccine from the Indian Government Sri Lankan population, and be citizens, together with social may not have had a drastic soon as Sri Lanka receives a vaccine candidates such as Oxford- to the Sri Lankan Government, in line with the global COVAX awareness and sustainable increase; however, this does in whichever way. Meanwhile, State AstraZeneca, keeping it for and the other is a vaccine which initiative which is led by the WHO penalties for violations. not mean abuse has reduced. Minister Prof. Channa Jayasumana themselves. Therefore, he stated will be donated by the Chinese and the Coalition for Epidemic It simply means that these stated last week that the NMRA had that the local authorities should Government.” Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) A socioeconomic incidents go unreported. granted permission for emergency have been prepared to take up He explained that the Indian – a programme which targets issue Amongst the many sexual use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca opportunities during the first donation may contain around global equitable access to Covid-19 S. Nandasiri, researcher abuse cases I have handled, vaccine in Sri Lanka. distribution of the vaccine itself. 500,000 doses of the vaccine vaccines. the majority of them are Indian media reported that the “We need to bring down the which can be administered to Around 155,000 frontline I believe these abuses related to boys under the country has already begun a massive vaccines fast, but we also need to around 250,000 people; and the healthcare workers, 127,500 military happen at home more than in age of 16, and most of them Covid vaccination drive using this go for the ones with the proper Chinese donation will contain personnel, 3,159,800 patients of foreign institutions. Children opt out of continuing legal vaccine, with over 300,000 Indians approvals. When we look at the around 300,000 doses which will non-communicable diseases over are forced to do strenuous proceedings due to the social getting the vaccine on the first day Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, it has be administered to 150,000 people. the age of 60 and 1,178,154 people labour in big families with stigma attached to this area. of the exercise. The country has a 95% success rate and Oxford- However, he stated that they do not between 55 to 59 years of age have low incomes and they are I believe the NCPA and the already distributed 1,50,000 doses AstraZeneca has a 65% success have a specific timeline in which the been identified as being eligible often physically abused, as relevant ministries have of the vaccine, which has the brand rate. When it comes to the Pfizer- donations will arrive in Sri Lanka. for vaccination. Another 1,424,167 the adults in these families taken initiatives to help. name Covishield, to Bhutan and BioNTech, we will face issues when Moreover, he stated that the citizens between 45 and 49 years of are often frustrated due to However, there might not be 100,000 doses to the Maldives as a distributing it, so I think the best Government has already planned for age and 4,843,562 citizens between financial issues. Increasing significant progress due to part of India’s grant assistance, on 20 option is to bring both these top the procurement of more Oxford- 30 and 45 years of age are next in line employment opportunities the lack of social awareness January. However, the vaccines were two vaccine candidates down, give AstraZeneca around February or to receive the vaccine, according to to people in low-income in the area. not sent to Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, the Pfizer-BioNTech to those with March. Weeratunga. the sunday morning 15 Sunday, January 24, 2021 SPORTS The hardest problem Chess problems come in all forgot about this episode. Then one ‘Chinnappampatti shapes and sizes. The aesthetics are THE CHESS day when Friedel came home, he had important, but so are the depth, several messages from Kasparov, flow, and originality. Due to all CORNER asking him to call back urgently. It these factors at play, it’s almost by Dulan Edirisinghe turns out Kasparov had given the impossible to compare in terms above problem to his students. When Express’ receives of difficulty. they couldn't solve it and asked for What makes some problems unique, however, is the legend the answer, Kasparov had bought time by lecturing on the behind the problem, and the stories of legendary people who importance of perseverance. Meanwhile, the aforementioned tried to solve them and failed. Here’s one such story about envelope could not be located as well. Until Friedel told what can probably be termed the hardest problem of all. them the solution, Kasparov and his mentor Botvinik were Our problem makes its first appearance in the year 1976. convinced that there is something wrong with the problem. heroes’ welcome That was the year the chess world was divided by FIDE’s So can you solve the “hardest chess problem”? Here are decision to award the 22nd Chess Olympiad to Haifa, Israel. two other problems with a superficial resemblance to set z India thus scripted another cricketing fairytale During the rest periods afforded in such tournaments, it is you along the right path. normal to see more than a dozen leading players clustered First, can you reach “knight takes rook mate” in five ‘Why is there such firecrackers added to the festive spirit. around a chessboard in the hotel lobby, trying to make moves without starting with 1.e4? a crowd?’ an elderly Natarajan had not met his two-month-old woman asked. And sense of one complicated position or the other. Only this There are many solutions with different move orders, when told that daughter till now, as he went straight to time, a member of the hotel staff who came up to see but the main concept is this. 1.f3 Nf6 2.d3 Ne4 3.Be3 a cricket player Australia from the United Arab Emirates what had attracted such a crowd went away shaking his Ng3 4.Kf2 a6 5.Qe1 Nxh1#. That’s fairly easy because has returned, she (UAE) following the India Premier League head in pure disbelief, because the position set up on the the black knight does all the hard work. The key takeaway shot back: “Is it (IPL). chessboard was this. is, as black, you get one half-move more to get the job done. Natarajan?” Here’s another. “A game ends on move five when one Not from big cities player mates with an underpromotion to a knight.” Find “He would often make video calls to wife the proof game. Pavithra and see the baby. He was waiting for Here the key idea is to get another black piece to play a this day when he would meet his daughter part in the mating position. The solution is 1.d3 e5 2.b3 for the first time,” said a neighbour. The e4 3.Kd2 exd3 4.Kc3 dxe2 5.Kb2 exd1=N#. The black emotional moment of the father seeing his bishop on f8 controls the a3 square. baby, though, was kept private. Natarajan, who drove down from Bengaluru, stopped his car on the outskirts of his village on seeing the crowd that had gathered. His father Thangaraj, mother T. Shantha, and sister Thilagavathi were among the first to receive him. “We were so used to the notion that great achievements only came from big cities. But here we are witnessing someone so great from Only 1.e4 has been played on the chessboard our own neighbourhood,” said Devayani, a college student from Chinnappampatti. The whole “racket” was instigated by Jonathan Mestel, who later became the first person to be awarded the ‘Is it Natarajan?’ Grandmaster titles in both over-the-board (in 1982) and There was a horse-drawn chariot waiting for problem-solving (in 1997). Natarajan. The “King of Chinnappampatti” Mestel was posing this problem. took about two hours on his “royal vehicle” to “A game begins with 1.e4 and ends in the fifth Armed with this knowledge, can you solve the “hardest” cover the two kilometres back home, wading move with knight takes rook mate. Find the moves problem? through the lanes of his village brimming of the game.” The twist comes in the form of multiple captures on with excited fans. All you have to do is find some legal chess moves, so that the e-file, which allows the two queens to play influential “Why is there such a crowd?” an elderly the game ends on move five with the stipulated knight takes roles. Here’s the solution. woman asked. And when told that a cricket rook checkmate. These sort of problems are called “proof 1.e4 Nf6 2.Qe2 Nxe4 (aha!) 3.f3 Ng3 4.Qxe7+ player has returned, she shot back: “Is games” and they often contain ridiculous moves. As long (aha!!) Qxe7+ 5. Kf2 Nxh1# Thangarasu Natarajan lived a it Natarajan?” It indicated how deep an as all the moves are legal, anything is fair game. in words. I never expected this kind of impression the mild-mannered boy, who It is not known if anyone found the correct answer back dream in Australia over the past reception. I thank my fans, friends, relatives, first played cricket with a leather ball at then. The problem made its next and more celebrated three months and his homecoming and villagers,” Natarajan said, soaking in the age of 19, has made on the minds of appearance nearly a decade later, when Mestel’s compatriot on Thursday (21) seemed an the adulation as “chenda melam” beats and his people. John Nunn gave it to Frederic Friedel, the founder of chessbase extension of it. and the pioneer of the use of chess databases. Nunn apparently did the “envelope trick” by sealing the answer His village in Salem District, named in an envelope and asking Friedel to return it unopened, Chinnappampatti, had prepared well in with the solution written on the back. After many hours advance for their favourite son who made spent in vain, Friedel was forced to accept defeat and open his Test, ODI, and T20 debuts in Australia, the envelope. reported Times of India on Friday (22). In 1986, Friedel was travelling in the same car alongside the Once the 29-year-old returned from two legends Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov. They were Brisbane via Dubai and Bengaluru, it was travelling from Zurich to Lucerne to meet the FIDE President. like a carnival. Since it was a long journey, Friedel thought it’s a good idea to entertain the two greats with his little problem. After the ‘I am elated’ two Ks failed to solve it, Friedel mischievously replicated the The left-arm pacer was welcomed by giant “Nunn envelope trick” on none other than Garry Kasparov. Did you manage to “beat” Kaspatov, Karpov, Frederick billboards as scores of fans gathered from A few months passed and both Kasparov and Friedel Friedel, and many other strong Grandmasters? nearby villages to give him a royal welcome. “I am elated. I cannot express my happiness He left his village as a net bowler for India. He returned as a much-loved hero

‘THE HOW TO PLAY’ SERIES CONTINUES… Abdul Cader of D.S. SL JUNIOR NATIONALS 2020 Senanayake College in action on Friday (22) Cader in boys’ PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI Against ‘the grinders’ U-12 finals An introduction Abdul Cader of D.S. Senanayake College, Dinith Colombo beat Lithum Jayabandu 6/1, 6/2 Pathiraja A major drawback among the young on Friday (22) in boys’ singles Under-12 Sri Lankan players is the fact that their semi-finals at the Sri Lanka Junior National tactical knowledge and nous is not up to Tennis, now being held at the Sri Lanka ON COURT the required standard. The only tactic that Tennis Association (SLTA) hard courts in most of the players have is the fact that Colombo. Today’s discussion would centre on how to they need to put one more ball over the Ganuka Fernando of St. Joseph’s College, play against “grinders”. net. In this multipart series, it is hoped to Negombo was to meet Louis Knese in the In tennis, “grinders” are those who return discuss the tactics which can be used against other semis every ball. They mostly do it by using the pace specific types of players. Whilst the points of the opponent. Most of their shots are either mentioned here are by no means exhaustive, play shorter rallies. And if the player decides loopy shots or shots with very little pace. In it is hoped that these points would form to follow up the next shot to the net, then the matches, the lack of pace of this type of player the basis of foundation for the players to player is also forcing the opponent to come up creates problems for the opponent. They are flesh out their own tactics when confronted with either a passing shot or another offensive very consistent too. An important distinction against such players. shot which is normally not the forte of these is the fact that some “grinders” are quite quick In deciding on tactics against any player, types of opponents. on the court while the others are not so quick. the first and most important thing that needs It is often said that “grinders” are the most to be understood is the fact that tactics should Use of the slice frustrating of opponents in tennis. be devised with the strengths of the player Another effective tactic is to make sure that What are the “normal” (general) strengths who is devising them being at the forefront the player uses the slice, so that the opponent of this type of player? They can be listed as of the mind at all times. For the purposes is forced to come up with their own pace given below: of this discussion, it will be assumed that in returning the ball. Since generally these the player devising the tactics is proficient opponents do not like to do so, this would yy They are very consistent players in playing all the shots. Also for purposes again pull the opponent out of his/her comfort yy Normally they are mentally very strong of this article, the player against whom the Therefore, how can the players play against with a change of pace so that not only is the zone. Not only that, since the ball will stay low yy tactics are being devised against will be these kinds of opponents? Since these opponents opponent pulled out of place, but the opponent because of the slice, the opponent has to hit the Like long rallies referred to as the “opponent”. are very consistent, it is very important that the also has to come forward and sideways to hit ball up, which in turn will give the player greater yy Plays a high percentage of balls with In previous weeks, we discussed playing players do not get frustrated in the matches. the shot. Since these opponents do not like the opportunities to come with various other options. very little pace against (i) taller players, (ii) shorter players, Instead of that, the players have to treat this as a change of pace this would make things even The most important thing when playing against What would be the general weaknesses of (iii) faster players, (iv) slower players, (v) challenge and enjoy playing this kind of a match. more uncomfortable for the opponent. the “grinders” is to make sure the player forces this type of a tennis player? consistent players, and (vi) serve-and-volley the opponent to come and play out of their players. Today in the seventh part, we’ll Pulling him out of comfort zone Move into the court comfort zone as much as possible. Whilst this yy They do not like angles discuss ‘the grinders’. Since these opponents are not very fond of When the player is able to pull the opponent can be done with the above mentioned methods, yy They do not like to be rushed the angles, it is very important that the player out of position, the player has to follow it up they are not at all exclusive. yy uses angles to pull the opponent out of the with moving into the court, so that the player The player has to be mentally agile to decide They are generally averse to change of when devising those tactics, it is important to court. This will achieve two things: Firstly, it can take the next ball early, thereby making sure what is working for the player on that particular pace understand that your strengths SHOULD BE will pull the opponent out of their comfort zone the opponent has less time to set up for the next day and play to those strengths. The player yy Generally do not like low balls maximised and given priority when coming up and secondly, it will pull the opponent out of shot. By taking the ball early in this manner, who is able to understand these facts in the The tactics need to be devised against this with those tactics (from here onwards, this type position. This can be done in various ways. the player will make sure that the opponent match will generally be more often than not opponent with the above in mind. As always, of player will be referred to as the “opponent”). But the most effective would be to hit the angle is rushed and also that the opponent has to be successful and win. Olympics behind closed doors! The rescheduled Tokyo Games may have to be held behind closed doors, if they are to go ahead in Japan this year, athletics chief Lord Sebastian Coe has admitted. The World Athletics President remained confident the Olympics and Paralympics would take place despite a Times report suggesting last Tigers ruin Windies, earn third spot week they Bangladesh made two wins in a row against West Indies on Friday (22), coasting would be to a seven-wicket victory in their second ODI in Dhaka. They thus moved up to cancelled. the third spot in the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup Super League standings, behind Australia and England.

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Sri Lankans who were initially set to sports participate in it. The SLC decision for not allowing Great move by SLC! senior national players to participate in various franchise leagues will be effective z during the whole of this year that is Senior players not allowed to take part in Abu Dhabi League cricket packed with multi-national as well as bilateral assignments, both home and BY REVATHA S. SILVA CEO Ashley de Silva. members (who have requested NOCs) abroad. There has been a lingering accusation are going to be in a pool which has In a fare move aimed towards the that senior as well as prospective been picked by the selectors, they will The three players who were betterment of national cricket, some national players are taking part in not be released (for any such leagues),” given NOCs current players who have requested various cash-rich T20 and T10 leagues further explained de Silva. The move will also give the SLC from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) for round the world, round the year only to “Only those who will not be contracted players a bigger duration No Objection Certificates (NOCs) hamper their preparation for national participating, or who are not in the pool, to rest and recover from their injuries to participate in the Abu Dhabi T10 duty and required fitness levels needed will be given the NOCs,” added de Silva in preparation for the most significant League - which is to be held from 28 in highly competitive international when he talked to The Sunday Morning national duties. January to 6 February - have not been cricket nowadays. over SLC’s decision on Friday (22). The three Sri Lankan cricketers issued the above, The Sunday Morning who have been issued with SLC learnt on Friday (22). SLC has taken a decision Effective for whole year NOCs for the Abu Dhabi T10 “There is an international tour. We “They (the squad for the West Only three Sri Lanka players will League are Matheesha Pathirana are going to the West Indies. Most Indies tour) need to get fit for proper therefore feature in the Abu Dhabi T10 (who will feature in the franchise of these players who have requested preparation. Therefore the board has Cricket League this time, which will be Bangla Tigers), Mahesh Theekshana, NOCs are in that pool to carry out taken a decision that when there are held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and Dhananjaya Lakshan (both in training for that tour,” explained SLC international tours and if any of the (UAE). But there were reportedly 13 Northern Warriors franchise).

Angelo Mathews made his first hundred at home since 2015 yesterday (22) in Galle against England PHOTO © SLC

Mathews’ century gives Lanka first

SCORECARD Sri Lanka first innings day’s honours Lahiru Thirimanne c Buttler b Anderson 43 Kusal Perera c Root b Anderson 6 Oshada Fernando b Anderson 0 Angelo Mathews not out 107 Sri Lanka put in a markedly early wickets. The partnership allayed some Sri Lankan bowlers tried and failed to arrest the trickle Dinesh Chandimal (Capt) lbw b Wood 52 improved first-innings batting Kusal Perera, attempting to plant one over concerns, and the batsmen helped take the of runs. Niroshan Dickwella (wk) not out 19 performance on the opening day long off, only managed an edge off Anderson team through to lunch without further incident, The duo took Sri Lanka to tea at 155/3, the Extras (lb 2) 2 Total (for 4 wickets in 87 overs) 229 of the second cricket Test against and gifted a high catch to Joe Root at first slip at 76/2. partnership went on for nearly an hour after for only six. However, the interval broke their momentum, resumption, with Chandimal bringing up his Did not bat: Ramesh Mendis, Dilruwan Perera, Suranga Lakmal, England as they posted 229/4 on a Lasith Embuldeniya, and Asitha Fernando hectic day of cricket. Oshada Fernando, who had been included with Thirimanne falling shortly after resumption. half-century. It was broken shortly thereafter in place of the out-of-form Kusal Mendis – It was a typical Anderson wicket, probing though, a wild in-swinger from Mark Wood Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Perera, 4.1 ov), 2-7 (Fernando, 4.5 ov), 3-76 A fine century from Angelo Mathews, along dropped from the squad after returns of 0, 0, 0, 0 outside off and forcing the batsman to edge cleaning up Chandimal, but by this point, (Thirimanne, 26.2 ov), 4-193 (Chandimal, 68.6 ov) with a half-century from Dinesh Chandimal and and 15 in his last five Test innings – didn’t fare one through to the ’keeper. England bowlers were tired. Bowling: James Anderson 19-10-24-3, Sam Curran 11-2-36-0, Lahiru Thirimanne’s 43, formed the bedrock much better, chopping one on from Anderson If England hoped that would trigger another Niroshan Dickwella could come in and settle Jack Leach 22-3-66-0, Mark Wood 17-2-47-1, Dom Bess 18-1- of Sri Lanka’s first-innings display. onto his own stumps later in that same over. slide, they were disappointed. Mathews was down, scoring an assiduous 60-ball 19 not out, 54-0 Jimmy Anderson, the veteran pacer in Sri Lanka were 7/2. joined by Dinesh Chandimal, the stand-in to ensure the innings remained steady. At the Toss: Sri Lanka who chose to bat England in place of the rested Stuart Broad, was England had little joy thereafter. Thirimanne, Captain for the injured Dimuth Karunaratne, and other end, Mathews could bring up the runs Test match number: 2,405 England’s chief threat, as he ended with 3/24. who scored an impressive century in the second Sri Lanka had their best partnership of the day. to score his 11th Test century, capping a fine Test debut: Ramesh Mendis (SL) Sri Lanka opted to bat, but fears of a collapse innings of the first Test, was joined by Mathews, The duo put on a watchful 117, a stand that day for Sri Lanka. Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena and Ruchira Palliyaguruge similar to what they went through in the first and the two went about reviving the innings, became increasingly punishing on England as However, England will know early wickets TV Umpire: Lyndon Hannibal Test – they were bundled out for 135 in the putting on a much-needed 69-run stand for it went on. The partnership took up 42.4 overs, on the second morning will get them right Reserve Umpire: Raveendra Wimalasiri first-inning – returned when they lost two the third wicket. during the course of which all of England’s back in it. Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

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DIGITALISING IDENTITIES: ECONOMIC COST OR A BENEFIT? »SEE PAGE 7 Sunday, January 24, 2021 Numberbusiness portability facility Goods and Services by mid-2021 Tax within first quarter z Telcos have already agreed to principles The number portability facility z Bill at draft z Single tax replacing existing taxes announced by the Government last year is expected to come into effect by mid-2021, stage now including VAT and Income Tax enabling customers to retain The Goods and Services Tax Meanwhile, another leading alcohol their numbers while changing (GST), which was announced manufacturer told us that they have not service providers, according under the Budget 2021, is received anything in writing and do not to the Telecommunications expected to come into effect want to comment on the tax until they do. Regulatory Commission of Sri before the end of the first Neighbouring India too has a GST tax Lanka (TRCSL). quarter this year, The Sunday system implemented. In India, the GST is TRCSL Director General based on the consumption of goods and Oshada Senanayake told The Morning Business learns. services. It is proposed to be levied from Sunday Morning Business that the Speaking to The Sunday Morning manufacture up to final consumption public consultation paper, which is Business, Treasury Secretary S.R. with credit taxes paid at previous stages a formality arrangement, has been Attygalle stated that the necessary available to be setoff. In a nutshell, released last week and that the document to implement the tax is being only value addition will be taxed and TRCSL is expecting feedback for drafted at the moment, and that it will be the burden of tax is to be borne by the that from mid-February onwards. subsequently submitted to the Parliament final consumer. Accordingly, tobacco “All telecommunication (telco) TRCSL Director General Oshada for approval. and tobacco products are subject to GST. providers have already agreed in Senanayake “It is a single tax because we want to Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Gunawardana Treasury Secretary S.R. Attygalle The introduction of GST amalgamating principle. In fact last year, in the would result in the enhancement simplify the existing tax system without has excise special provision, luxury “significantly”. Therefore, introducing a large number of central and state taxes last quarter of 2020, they published and development of the industry having five, six taxes for one product tax, vehicle entitlement levy, and other GST would benefit the Government in into a single tax allows the setoff of their own statements that they are overall, resulting in benefits to or service. It is one single tax, like the taxes for different categories. However, terms of tax revenue. prior-stage taxes, hence mitigating the looking forward to collaborating all service providers and their International Monetary Fund (IMF) through this new implementation, it will We also spoke to an alcohol company ill effects of cascading and paves the on this initiative,” Senanayake customers. wants,” Attygalle added. be only one tax. It’s easy to implement as that would be subjected to this tax before way for a common national market. stated. “Dialog is honoured by the On a further note, he added that the there won’t be any issues,” Senanayake the end of the first quarter. A senior For the consumers, the biggest gain He added that the necessary trust placed in the brand and its percentage of the tax would depend on added. company official who wished to remain would be in terms of a reduction in the technical-side work is being services by over 15 million Sri the commodities and would be decided He added that the payments of tax anonymous told us that the industry overall tax burden on goods, which is done at the moment while Lankan consumers. The success shortly. will be easy, collection of tax would be is not certain about the tax or the tax currently estimated at 25-30%. The interconnecting rate methods and and growth of the company would Announcing the Budget 2021, Prime easy, and it will be transparent because structure, and added that whilst they introduction of GST makes products systems are pending to do. not have been possible if not for Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is of the online payment system. have spoken to the relevant authorities, competitive in the domestic and “This is something the our customers exercising their also the Minister of Finance, stated “I think it’s beneficial to all businesses no clear directives were given to the international markets. consumers have wanted for choice. Open competition and the country will introduce a GST for as well as all other parties. Some of the industry yet. Furthermore, according to the Central years. So it’s better late than never customer choice is at the root of items including vehicles, cigarettes, companies have sent some proposals “They are combining all the existing Board of Excise and Customs, New because all other countries have our success and is a paradigm telecommunication, alcohol, and betting on how to implement this tax and we taxes. As of now, taxes imposed on Delhi states that the tax on goods and gone forward these long years we deeply respect. Advanced and gaming. will also analyse their concerns as well, those categories are not consistent; some services helps to spur economic growth. back. This will enable a lot more technologies enable not only a Ministry of Finance Department but it’s not discussed yet,” Senanayake are charged on value (VAT), some are “There may also be revenue gain for the autonomy to decide what they suite of advanced facilities, but of Fiscal Policy Director Kapila added. product-based, and some are revenue centre and the states due to widening of want, irrespective of the number. also the freedom of consumers to Senanayake stated that preparation for Meanwhile, Minister of Trade Dr. and unit-based, and they are trying to the tax base, increase in trade volumes, With this, consumers can switch choose the best,” Dialog Director/ the implementation is almost completed Bandula Gunawardana stated that since merge them together, so this is not easy and improved tax compliance. Last to any service provider at any Group Chief Executive Supun in a simplified tax structure which would the current Government came to power, – it is a cumbersome process. We still but not least, this tax, because of its moment,” he added. Weerasinghe stated at that point. benefit the respective companies. Income Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), do not know the impact we will face,” transparent character, would be easier All our attempts to reach While Sri Lanka’s “For example, take vehicles: This and other taxes have been reduced the official noted. to administer,” the statement added. telecommunication service telecommunications market has providers on Thursday (21) proved been recognised globally for futile as they asked more time to its affordability and quality of issue their statements. services as well as state-of-the-art Nevertheless, soon after the technology and advanced facilities, LKR joins India and Pakistan announcement of this facility last enabling the portability of mobile year, Dialog Axiata PLC welcomed and fixed numbers across networks The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) which noted that the Pakistan rupee continued rate of 3.29% recorded during the the move, issuing a statement. has not been implemented to date. was depreciating in the past week, joins to go down against the US dollar in both period from 1 January to 31 December Number portability, which “We are very happy to see the a number of depreciating currencies in interbank and open markets. According last year. enables the switching of mobile TRCSL moving forward with the the region including the Indian rupee to reports, in global currency markets, According to Central Bank of Sri and fixed line numbers across next steps in the liberalisation of and Pakistan rupee, according to the softening US economic data and rising Lanka (CBSL) data, the rupee began competing service providers, is a our industry and we congratulate data from the respective Central Banks. coronavirus cases made investors the year at 189.80 and witnessed a customer facility widely practised the TRCSL for initiating the During the first three weeks this year, cautious, turning to safe haven USD. gradual growth since then, excluding internationally and is a key facet of process of implementing number the rupee has recorded a depreciation Meanwhile, political turmoil in Italy the slight appreciation it recorded on a liberalised telecommunications portability in Sri Lanka. Dialog is rate of 4.15%. Meanwhile, The Hindu held the euro under pressure. 8 January this year. The rupee has market. also optimistic that the TRCSL earlier last week noted that the Indian The LKR has hit its lowest value in recorded a depreciation of 4.4% so far Dialog noted that it first will move forward swiftly with rupee plunged by 21 paise to settle at worries over rising coronavirus cases eight months Wednesday (20) with the this year. As at 31 December 2020, the proposed in July 2008 the other similar enablers of consumer a week’s low of 73.28 against the US across the globe and decline in stock selling rate of the US dollar peaking rupee was Rs. 189.18. The lowest value initiation of a roadmap to alleviate choice,” Weerasinghe added. dollar on Monday (18), tracking weak markets. Market sentiments were hurt at 198.26, recording a depreciation of the rupee hit in 2020 was Rs. 200.4 consumer choice bottlenecks Dialog entered Sri Lanka’s domestic equities and a rebound in on weaker-than-expected economic 4.4% in the first 20 days of the new year. against the US dollar on 8 and 9 April. including number portability, telecommunications market as the the American currency. It stated that data from the US. The depreciation rate recorded so far The rupee recorded an appreciation of and that it believes the paradigm fourth entrant in the mobile sector. demand for the US dollar increased on On the same day, Business Recorder this year is higher than the depreciation 0.7% in 2019. that maximising consumer choice Contd. on page 2 Tourism reopening: 35 Treasury settles outstanding airlines come on board As Sri Lanka opened its shores for all international travellers from Thursday (21) onwards, contractor payments 35 airlines have expressed their willingness to operate flights from z Rs. 243 b paid in 2020 z No ‘drastic’ complains on not receiving payments: CCI and to Sri Lanka, according to Minister of Tourism Prasanna BY YAKUTA DAWOOD been approved and settled by allocated from the Budget was Ranatunga. the respective ministries. About paid,” he added. During a press conference Outstanding payments for Rs. 243 billion worth of bills have A circular issued on this facility held to mark the reopening of construction companies for been settled last year,” Attygalle by the Central Bank last year the country for all international state projects that have been noted. stated that LCBs were required travellers, Ranatunga stated that completed in the past few years Meanwhile, Chamber of to enter into a loan agreement although prior to the pandemic have been settled completely by Construction Industry of Sri and a pledge agreement with the about 80 airlines were operating Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga the Treasury, as pledged, before Lanka (CCISL) President Eng. Monetary Board of the Central to and from Sri Lanka, it might PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE 31 December 2020, The Sunday Maj. Ranjith Gunatilleke told Bank each time the liquidity take a couple of months to get Morning Business learns. us that no one has “drastically” facility to the construction sector those airlines back on board. Meanwhile, during the event, Taking into account the complained that they have not (LFCS) is drawn by the LCB. “Sri Lanka tourism will take Jetwing Hotels Chairman financial struggles endured by the A building under construction received outstanding payments Under the LFCS, the Central about six to seven months to Hiran Cooray stated that the country’s construction companies LCBs are directed to provide confirmed that all the pending from the Government. Bank grants loans to LCBs at recover,” Ranatunga added. Government is planning to relax for the past few years, the Central promissory notes secured by payments for state projects “There are no issues. It has been a concessionary rate of 1% per During the event Sri Lanka tourism guidelines by April which Bank on 26 June 2020 introduced pledged Treasury bills and have been settled to respective satisfactory. As the President of annum for a period not exceeding Tourism Development Authority will boost more travellers into a liquidity facility scheme to Treasury bonds in their own construction companies the Chamber, I have not received 180 days for on-lending to (SLTDA) Chairperson Kimarli the country. support the construction sector holding to the Central Bank excluding a negligible amount a single complaint. Also as the construction sector enterprises Fernando stated that Sri Lanka has The country reopened its through licensed commercial to obtain credit facilities at a of outstanding payments for CEO (Chief Executive Officer) upon the receipt of promissory reopened two of its airports which tourism after about 10 months. banks (LCBs). concessionary interest rate of projects that were completed in of Sanken Construction (Pvt.) notes from LCBs secured by are the Bandaranaike International The country’s tourism came to Accordingly, backed by 4% to construction companies. late December. Ltd., all the bill payments for pledged Treasury bills and Airport (BIA) and the Mattala a standstill after the closure of a “Letter of Acceptance of Speaking to The Sunday “All the previous outstanding Sanken Construction from the Treasury bonds with the Central Rajapaksa International Airport BIA in March, following the local Payments of Outstanding Bills Morning Business Treasury bills including that of the government sector projects have Bank. (MRIA) for international outbreak of the Covid-19 virus. Due to Contractors (LAPC)”, Secretary S.R. Attygalle previous Government have been paid. Whatever the money Contd. on page 2 passengers. Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning business NEWS Sunday, January 24, 2021 Central Bank to introduce priority lending sector targets for MSMEs z Central Bank maintains z Workers’ remittance grows z Headline inflation policy rates 5.8% in 2020 despite pandemic within targeted range

The Monetary Board of the 1 billion at end-2020, with an import Central Bank of Sri Lanka cover of 4.3 months. Amidst (CBSL) on Monday (18) hostile global market conditions, decided to introduce priority the Government and the Central sector lending targets for the Bank continued to explore avenues micro, small, and medium- of financial flows to the country, sized enterprise (MSME) while discussions with domestic and foreign counterparts in this regard sector in consultation with the have made notable progress. banking community. Accordingly, the Central Bank Market interest rates will continue to monitor domestic The Central Bank relaxed and global macroeconomic and its Monetary Policy stance to financial market developments and unprecedented levels in 2020 with a take further measures appropriately view to revive the economy affected in order to ensure the economy by the pandemic. In response, both promptly reverts to its true potential market deposit and lending rates of a high growth trajectory, while declined notably in 2020. Most maintaining inflation in the targeted market interest rates have declined to 4-6% range under its flexible single-digit levels, while some have inflation targeting framework. reached their historic lows. Although “In support of the envisaged deposit rates are not expected to economic revival, the Monetary decline further, the high level of Board underscored the need to excess liquidity in the domestic promote the MSME sector, which money market leaves sufficient space is the mainstay of the economy,” for market lending rates to adjust Central Bank officials noted during downward, thereby providing low- the first Monetary Policy Review cost funds to the economy. press conference of 2020 that was held virtually. Money and credit supply The Central Bank has also Despite the impact of the second decided to maintain the Standing 2 wave of Covid-19, credit extended Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) and to the private sector continued to the Standing Lending Facility Rate expand during the second half of (SLFR) of the Central Bank at 2020, supported by policy easing their current levels of 4.50% and measures adopted by the Central 5.50%, respectively. According Bank. Meanwhile, overall domestic to the Board, they arrived at this credit expanded notably, driven by decision after carefully considering the substantial increase in credit the macroeconomic conditions to the public sector. Reflecting the and expected developments on the impact of increased domestic credit, domestic and global fronts. the growth of broad money (M2b) The Board, having noted the continued to accelerate in 2020, reduction in overall market lending providing ample liquidity to support rates during 2020, stressed the domestic economic activity. need for a continued downward Credit to all sectors of the adjustment in lending rates to boost economy is expected to gather economic growth in the absence pace in 2021, supported by the of demand-driven inflationary continued decline in lending rates, pressures, particularly considering implementation of special loan the significant levels of excess schemes at low interest rates, liquidity prevailing in the domestic along with the rising demand for money market. As announced in credit driven by improved investor November 2020, the Board decided sentiment and the envisaged revival to introduce priority sector lending in domestic economic activity. targets for the MSME sector to support a broad-based economic Headline inflation revival, in consultation with the Headline inflation, based on the banking community. Colombo Consumer Price Index As per the GDP estimates (CCPI), remained mostly within published by the Department of the targeted range of 4-6% during Census and Statistics (DCS), the 2020. CCPI-based core inflation Central Bank noted that the Sri remained low, reflecting subdued Lankan economy, which contracted aggregate demand pressures in the by 1.7% and 16.3% in the first and economy. Meanwhile, headline second quarters of 2020, respectively, and core inflation, based on the rebounded in the third quarter of National Consumer Price Index 2020 and recorded a growth of 1.5%. (NCPI), also remained at subdued However, the onset of the second levels, particularly towards the wave of Covid-19 is expected to end of 2020. With the pandemic- have dampened the momentum in induced weak global and domestic the fourth quarter of 2020. economic conditions, inflation is Accordingly, the economy is expected to remain low in the near expected to have contracted by term. However, with the expected around 3.9% in 2020. Nevertheless, improvement in domestic aggregate the economy is well poised to demand conditions supported by rebound in 2021, supported by significant policy stimuli and the the unprecedented policy stimulus anticipated improvement in external measures introduced by the conditions, inflation could briefly Government and the Central Bank, accelerate over the medium term. improved domestic economic Nevertheless, the envisaged sentiments, and improving prospects payments, the trade deficit continued in comparison to the previous year. current account deficit is estimated to sector in 2021. Reopening the improvements to domestic supply of the global economy. to narrow, while the rebound of Workers’ remittances have grown have narrowed substantially in 2020. country for tourist arrivals under conditions, supported largely by workers’ remittances continued by 5.8% $ 7.1 billion in 2020, with Measures taken by the strict health guidelines could help pro-growth policies and reforms External sector through the second half of 2020. a historic high level of remittance Government to promote the improve external sector conditions introduced by the Government, Cushioning the adverse impact The trade deficit is expected to have receipts in December 2020. With exportation of goods and services in the period ahead. Gross official are likely to negate demand-driven of the pandemic on the balance of narrowed by over $ 2 billion in 2020 these developments, the external are expected to buttress the external reserves were estimated at $ 5.7 price pressures in the period ahead.

Contd. from page 1

since the payments were not made industry stakeholders. rates of hotels to 20% until the In planning this campaign, the includes the US, the Netherlands, Number... in 2019, the Government had Sri Lanka’s gross domestic recent “second wave” of the virus, SLTDA has analysed tourism Denmark, Finland, and Spain. It rose to the top spot in decided to provide this facility for product (GDP) was Rs. 14,449 which began on 4 October with data from the past five years and The SLTDA will appoint 2000. Dialog and its principal six months, within which period billion in 2018, out of which the the detection of the Minuwangoda segregated the campaign into three destination representation agencies shareholder, Axiata Group, also the Treasury is expected to settle construction sector’s contribution cluster. categories: Mature markets, Eastern for the mature and Eastern and hold the distinction of being Sri pending payments to the respective was approximately Rs. 1,083 In the meantime, Sri Lanka is and Middle Eastern markets, and Middle Eastern market segments. Lanka’s largest FDI (foreign direct companies. Therefore, they can billion. The total debt from the also preparing its Global Tourism new markets. These agencies will conduct digital investment) with a total investment settle the loan they obtained under construction sector to private and campaign which is expected to The “mature markets” category tourism marketing activities and to date of $ 2.7 billion directed at this facility. state banks stands at 20% of their kick off this year. The long-awaited includes all top tourism-generating public relations (PR) campaigns telecommunications infrastructure Even though the ongoing contribution to GDP, which is over global advertising campaign for markets of Sri Lanka such as in the Eastern and Middle Eastern development in Sri Lanka. pandemic has worsened their Rs. 216 billion. Sri Lanka Tourism was set to be Germany, the UK, France, India, markets, while in the mature struggles, the construction sector’s launched in September last year but and China. The campaign is markets, in addition to this, they will financial struggles go back to 2018 faced delays due to Covid-19. expected to increase arrivals also conduct above the line (ATL) Treasury... due to a large number of unpaid bills Tourism... The campaign has been in the from these countries by 25%. and below the line (BTL) marketing Outstanding payments from the by the Government to contractors. Nevertheless, following the pipeline for five to seven years The “Eastern and Middle Eastern campaigns. Government to the construction These issues were exacerbated by lifting of the seven-week lockdown under two governments, and has markets” category includes Tourism marketing for new sector stood at about Rs. 150 billion, the October crisis in 2018 and the imposed by the Government to been desperately awaited by the countries such as Australia, Qatar, markets will be conducted by PR and it was supposed to be settled Easter Sunday incidents in 2019 control the local spread of the industry, particularly following the the United Arab Emirates (UAE), agencies that would showcase PR before the presidential election in that drove away foreign direct virus, domestic tourism began to Easter Sunday attacks and more and other countries in the region, activities to attract tourists from November 2019. Nevertheless, investments (FDIs), according to pick up, bringing the occupancy recently, the coronavirus outbreak. while the “new markets” category those respective markets. the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, January 24, 2021 INSIGHT/FINANCE

Colombo Port By Dhananath Fernando

I generally buy my toothbrush from a neighbouring grocery store. I usually gravitate towards one particular brand, but the shopkeeper convinced me to buy a different brand. The way in which he convinced me was so appealing, and to date I can recall the brand of toothbrush he recommended. “Sir, there is a new brand in the market, which is the best. The thickness of the bristols are better and the handle has a special shape which can easily reach the teeth in your lower jaw.” He further explained the impact on my gums, how this model helps with oral hygiene and fights tooth cavities, etc. For a second, I thought to myself, this storekeeper must be a part-time dentist. Later on, when I worked at a market research agency, I did a study on toothbrushes and I analysed the margins provided for retailers. Here I realised the particular brand my neighbouring storekeeper promoted provides a significantly higher margin than the rest of the brands for the retailer. So the business model is designed to influence the buyer by providing a The East Container better incentive. For any business, understanding and setting up the right business model will determine the success of that business in a competitive industry. Sri Lanka’s debate on the East Container Terminal (ECT) has come into play in this context. Terminal incentive Sri Lanka doesn’t have a bright history of creating sustainable z business models. The shipping Why the ECT needs a business model and investor business is a networking business. Over the years, consecutive for making profits. Therefore, the There are many stakeholders and governments made the ECT fundamental business principle decision-makers who could bring project very complicated of ownership of risk must be the businesses into the port at by signing Memorandums considered with foresight. When many levels based on the incentive of Corporation (MoCs) and private investors are brought into structure. Our strategic location of calling bids for operators the business and when they risk the port is one advantage, but in and cancelling it multiple their money, they are responsible modern days, a strategic location times. As a result, we have to make matters efficient and will not be sufficient to bring in delayed this process for years. productive. That doesn’t happen the expected benefits in a broader Our reputation has been when governments invest taxpayer economic context. irreparably damaged by such money. Many Sri Lankans fail The Colombo Port is mainly prolonged delays to understand the basic role of a hub for transhipment business. incentives in economics and tend According to Shippers Academy that has to be used. That decision to only look at the ownership angle Colombo CEO Mr. Rohan is taken after considering the without realising the synergies of Masakorala, transhipment is a very efficiency of the port/terminal business models. sensitive business as the business and their business interest and The second question is that the Sri can move from one port to the other the terminals in their network, in Lankan rupee is under pressure. The based on developments, if we fail addition to the location. Shipping is recent Sri Lanka development bonds to attract the right business partners. a very cost-competitive industry and “Sir, there is a new brand in the market, which is the best. The thickness of the bristols are better and the handle has a special issuance has been undersubscribed He has further provided an example profits are based on volumes. shape which can easily reach the teeth in your lower jaw.” He further explained the impact on my gums, how this model helps by 25%, so the foreign exchange of how Singapore learnt a lesson At the same time, the investment with oral hygiene and fights tooth cavities, etc. For a second, I thought to myself, this storekeeper must be a part-time dentist needed to invest in the ECT remains by removing a major shipping is front-loaded, which means you not only the investment, but also the especially when taking into account angle, if a transparent bidding an enigma. All equipment and alliance from a partnership and the have to do a significant investment knowledge, knowhow, and the use the losses due to delays and the process was followed with clear machinery has to be imported to transhipment business moved to even before you start the operation. of better management that are going impact on investor confidence. guidelines, then such external keep it at a world-class level. We Malaysia. As a result, Singapore had The higher the investment, the to reap the real benefits. As this writer highlighted in this influences could have been cannot afford to spend our valuable to reverse the decision. higher the risk and liability. In a If such a joint venture that reaps column before the general election, completely avoided, as transparency foreign reserves on this matter at According to Mr. Masakorala, the dynamic business environment, a such benefits is implemented, it could have been an opportunity and competitive bidding are the this juncture. So are we going to lack of knowledge and willingness minor disruption in operations can then the country gets economic for the then interim government standard global good practice delay the ETC further? to take an outward-oriented cause significant losses and result benefits across other sectors. As and president to reflect not only principle. As always, only time will tell approach on economics has resulted in the loss of competitive advantage a country, we have to look at the the transparency, but also the In the case of the Colombo us whether Sri Lanka created the in Sri Lanka not reaching the in this industry. This is the nature of broader economy and not a single importance of having a competitive Port, through the Sri Lanka correct business model similar to the benefits from ports as we should this business. industry, because at a broader business model. Following such a Ports Authority (SLPA), the incentives given by the shopkeeper, have. About 80% of ports and The Port of Singapore is a classic level, all industries are connected competitive focused model with government has a stake in all or whether we opt to keep terminals in the world are managed example of the importance of with main factors of production partners across main shipping terminals whilst also playing postponing this for a few more years by private-public partnerships entering into joint ventures. – land, labour, capital, and alliances and getting the ECT the role of the regulator. It and forget the opportunity to make (PPPs) and only 20% is managed Identifying the correct business entrepreneurship. networked for more businesses is the same as becoming the profits from the port for business by governments. In the case of model when managing ports and On the other hand, over the years, would have reaped significant umpire of the game while and the people of Sri Lanka. the Colombo Port, through the Sri their terminals is of paramount consecutive governments made benefits by now. contesting in the same game (The writer is the Chief Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), importance. The business works the ECT project very complicated Similar to the business model Operating Officer of Advocata the government has a stake in all in such a way that you opt for by signing Memorandums of created by the toothbrush If the SLPA was to invest in the Institute. He can be contacted terminals whilst also playing the joint ventures and network with Corporation (MoCs) and calling manufacturer with the retailer, ECT in full, then the question arises via [email protected]. role of the regulator. It is the same other stakeholders with the bids for operators and cancelling it we had the opportunity to arrive as to why we wasted so many years The opinions expressed are the as becoming the umpire of the game objective of attracting as many multiple times. As a result, we have at a win-win business model, without investing in the first place. author’s own views. They may not while contesting in the same game. volumes as possible, while keeping delayed this process for years. Our creating synergies and respecting It raises questions as to why we necessarily reflect the views of Usually, it is the ship owners productivity and efficiency at a reputation has been irreparably local businesses as well as other wasted time and who is responsible the Advocata Institute or anyone who decide which port or terminal maximum. In a joint venture, it is damaged by such prolonged delays, stakeholders. From a geopolitics for the opportunity we missed affiliated with the institute) Central Bank warns online financial fraud and scams Central Bank The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) verification information such as one- with easy/instant loan schemes the circumstances time passwords (OTPs), etc. on Thursday (21) stated that it has yy Avoid entering into agreements when . Advertised as quick approval received information regarding several yy Internet banking – user ID/username, it is difficult to fully understand the . Asking the consent to access the types of financial frauds and scams being password, OTP implications of the content of the contact list, photographs, files, and operated through social media, internet- terms and conditions documents in the phone based applications, and mobile payment yy Mobile banking (payment apps) – user The Central Bank strongly advises the applications. ID/username, password, OTP yy Be cautious when applying for public to be watchful about these frauds easy/instant loan schemes with It added that most of these scams are yy The public is strongly advised to: and scams and not to share any confidential conducted through web or mobile app-based characteristics such as: information, especially account usernames, easy loan schemes that attract the public. yy Exercise due diligence and care to . Attractive slogans which lure passwords, PINs, OTPs, or other information During such loan application evaluation avoid becoming victims of the scams customers in, such as zero interest required for account verification, with process, the fraudsters entice the public operating in the guise of money for the first loan anyone, and not to give consent to money to share confidential personal customer lending businesses . Extremely high interest rates even lenders to access information stored in the information/data such as: yy Obtain full information of the financial though the initial interest rates may phone. be low Furthermore, the Central Bank wishes yy Debit/credit cards – card number, transaction and the lending party . Advertised as requiring no/less to request the public to obtain real-time personal identification numbers (PIN), before entering into an agreement documentation notification services, such as SMS alerts, card verification digits commonly yy Conduct financial transactions with . Adequate information of the money from their banks or non-bank financial found at the back of the card (referred regulated/authorised entities lenders cannot be found institutions, so that they would become to as CVV, CVC, or CVS numbers), . Loan extensions can be requested aware of any fraudulent activity that takes card expiry date, transaction yy Be extremely vigilant when dealing and are granted at any time despite place using their accounts instantly. 4 the sunday morning business EDITORIAL/DIGITAL Sunday, January 24, 2021

The continued indecision surrounding the East Container Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo Port has become a sticking point for the Government, and added to the narrative that it is hesitant and lacking No timefund the completion of the terminal for port within a very short indecision diversion of volumes away. India also has the contracts the Government rightfully in the confidence to take big so that it continues to be held the main navigation lanes. Time is capacity to build competing ports places importance on the respect decisions. Stakeholders must entirely by Sri Lanka. As things of the essence for global logistics, along its southern coast that could of sovereignty; while commercial be given a voice and their stand, the way forward is anything and ports the world over must lure away the cargo loads enjoyed clauses may be negotiated from concerns addressed; however, but clear. have tight control over potential by Colombo. business interests, it is critical that allowing diverse groups with The Colombo Port has for several congestion; long waiting times rob That Sri Lanka is of strategic clauses that address border controls vested interests to bring consecutive years been named both a port and a ship of efficiency. importance to both China and India and defence of the port remain nationally important projects among the top-performing ports The ECT is envisaged to add 2.4 goes without being said. China has a entirely within the control of the to a standstill is not in the best of the world. While geographic million TEU (20-foot equivalent firm foothold within and just outside Sri Lankan Government. interests of the economy. THE location will always be Sri Lanka’s unit) capacity to the Colombo Port’s the Colombo Port, with operational Given the Government’s The partly built ECT began HEADLIGHT advantage, it won’t necessarily current capacity of 7 million TEU control of the first deep-water vision to establish Sri Lanka as a limited operations just three translate to consistent traffic unless per year. terminal, the Colombo International maritime hub, it’s time it took a months ago, having remained idle the port delivers an attractive It must be noted that of current Container Terminal (CICT), and firm decision on how the country for almost half a decade while the by the Rajapaksa administration. offering of efficiency, competitive transshipment volumes enjoyed the adjacent Port City Colombo. may proceed with this important previous administration dillydallied Most recently, President Gotabaya tariffs, ease of border controls, and by the Port of Colombo, over Geopolitics would naturally dictate deep-water facility. The delays in on the way forward. A tripartite Rajapaksa announced the ECT adequate capacity, among others. two-thirds is generated by India. that India would thus seek a similar capacity expansion threaten to cost agreement eventually inked in would not be sold or leased Capacity enhancement is thus an It is only rational therefore that position of strength. Colombo the volumes it can easily 2019 between India, Japan, and to India. Unions, which have urgent need for Colombo, which for in negotiating our way out of one The Rajapaksa administration attract. Worse yet, the indecision Sri Lanka during the tenure of been vociferous against Indian now is favoured by shipping lines deal, Sri Lanka doesn’t embitter has raised issue with the security may rob us of the logistics hub Maithripala Siriena was halted involvement at the Port, have given its strategic hub status on the a government that can easily aspects of the existing agreement. status we now enjoy within the for re-evaluation in mid-2020 instead urged the Ports Authority to East-West Maritime Route, as a influence a portion of those It is important that in redrawing region.

BY YAKUTA DAWOOD from another country to Sri Lanka, PayPal officials to obtain the PayPal known as the T+2 transactional facility to Sri Lanka,” Kumaratunge Recently, State Minister of process. had stated. Money and Capital Markets, Accordingly, five main parties In March 2018, Sri Lanka was and State Enterprise Reforms are included in the transactional developing a National Financial Ajith Nivard Cabraal tweeted process, which comprises the Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) to that he was happy to learn customer depositing money into facilitate online payment gateways from the Central Bank of the bank, the IGP provider, the and digital financial services. Sri Lanka’s Payment and merchant of the acquiring bank who In October the same year, the Settlement Department will provide the IPG service or a Government said that it was that PayHere, DirectPay, payment aggregator, and finally the changing laws so that tech industry issuing bank (cardholder’s bank). workers can receive payments from WEBXPAY, Xoom, Skrill, The transaction process is as PayPal by 2020. However, it’s Payoneer, Earthport, follows: 2021, and the solution to this is yet and Genie are suitable Firstly, the acquiring bank will to be reached. alternatives to PayPal. Well, check with the issuing bank if funds In 2014, negotiations between the tweet did not stop there required for the transaction are the parties began, and the Central – he added: “Sri Lankan available. If yes, authorisation from Bank assured PayPal that it would entrepreneurs please take the bank is required for the second ease restrictions to allow inward note.” stage of the transaction. If this payments. The Government that authorisation is given, the merchant was elected in January 2015 neither The tweet was soon flooded with of the acquiring bank will send a made any progress in getting comments emphasising the need notification to the depositor saying PayPal, nor did it publicly discuss for PayPal, even though there are that the “payment is accepted”. the payment platform up until plenty of other digital payment Secondly, both banks conduct an early 2016. In March 2016, the platforms, including but not limited interbank settlement, which will Government announced plans to get to the aforementioned ones. The take another day. For instance, the “Stripe”, a new start-up reportedly Sunday Morning Business is thus issuing bank will transfer to the similar to PayPal. taking an extensive look at what Visa or Mastercard platform, which PayPal is, and why Sri Lankans will then transfer to the acquiring Years of discussion, no need it regardless of the emergence bank. improvement? of new local payment platforms. During the third stage, the Adding to the statements What is PayPal? acquiring bank will execute mentioned earlier, Weeramunda PayPal Holdings, Inc. is an the reconciliation process (to asserted that the people American company operating understand which merchant they complaining about not having a worldwide online payment will have to credit the money to), as PayPal are those who haven’t tried system that supports online money these funds are sent in bulk. “Due other alternative platforms available transfers and serves as an electronic to this process, it will definitely in Sri Lanka. alternative to traditional paper take at least two days for the client “Mastercard is also a well-known methods. Located in San Jose, to receive the money from the brand and a company, and they California, PayPal was founded in depositor. However, the process provide the payment platform called 1998. is also the same with PayPal,” ‘Mastercard Payment Gateway’, PayPal has quickly become Weeramunda added. which is also a trusted platform. a global leader in online PayPal: Similarly, Visa has also provided payment solutions, with more Sri Lanka’s progress thus far a payment platform named ‘Fiber than 325 million accounts The struggle for establishing Source’, which is available in Sri worldwide. Available in 202 What’s the big deal? PayPal in Sri Lanka to receive Lanka. Hence I do not see a big countries and 25 currencies around inward remittances has remained challenge of accepting payments the world, PayPal enables global WEBXPAY today is connected Mastercard is that it supports available through banks such as the same, regardless of over six through these networks,” he added. ecommerce by making payments to multiple international payment peer-to-peer (P2P) fund transfers HSBC, Commercial Bank, Bank of years of discussions with officials. possible across different locations, brands such as Visa, Mastercard, across countries, where freelancers Ceylon, and many more. To date, no progress has yet been currencies, and languages. Sri China Union Pay, American don’t need to really worry about How PayPal stands out achieved with PayPal to install Lankans have been using PayPal Express, Discover, and Diner’s how they get paid. In addition infrastructure facilities in Sri Lanka Any client will prefer to transfer for outward remittances, but Club, and also connected to local to that, Simplify Commerce by Due to the different geographical due to a number of known and money at PayPal without a receiving inward remittances has payment brands such as Nations Mastercard is another such platform locations of the customer and unknown reasons. doubt, because it is a globally long been a struggle for ecommerce Trust Bank’s virtual wallet FriMi, that is aimed at making it easier the client, the market would Sri Lanka began negotiations preferred bank, whereas the businesses, graphic designers, web Upay, Genie, Ezcash, Mcash, and for businesses to accept electronic be an online/distant payment with US-based PayPal to become alternatives available in Sri developers, and ICT (information Sampath Vishwa. payments, regardless of a payment facility; hence the transaction a domestic partner bank for inward Lanka are not known by the communications technology) Subsequently, the other payment brand, in Sri Lanka. will require a credit in a different remittances in 2014, when current international entrepreneurs; professionals. app providers such as UPay, IPay, geographical location, or it could State Minister of Money and hence transferring money However, as Cabraal noted, OrelPay, mCash, and eZ Cash, be a cross-border transaction. Capital Market and State Enterprise through this is questioned, as it a number of digital payment also started taking quite a lot of When considering the alternatives Reforms Cabraal was the Governor is not yet globally trusted and platforms are available in Sri Lanka. initiatives in terms of facilitating available in Sri Lanka, the of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. recognised PayHere such transactions, and to promote most preferred one would be a Speaking further, Weeramunda DirectPay Director/Founder ecommerce within Sri Lanka. transaction through a card payment, said that as a country we Kanishka Weeramunda PayHere is the first non-bank Accordingly, with technology which requires an IPG to transfer have not reached the required Internet Payment Gateway (IPG) as the backbone, innovation in money. creditworthiness (a quota submitted service in Sri Lanka launched in products, processes, payments, In terms of financial transactions, by PayPal regulators) to be Furthermore, while digital 2016 by founder Dhanika Perera. and customer service have helped the international client usually prefers attractive enough for PayPal to banking and technology evolves This platform was launched fintechs in Sri Lanka to grow more a well-known IPG and a trusted come to Sri Lanka. Likewise, the to encompass payments, the needs to address the issue facing than expected. This platform also platform such as PayPal to make same reason was also backed by and wants of consumers are also entrepreneurs in receiving payment plays a major role as of today, the transaction process complete. the Central Bank in 2017, stating evolving. Hence government transfers from abroad. after receiving the approval of the Speaking to The Sunday Morning that “PayPal has been hesitant officials, along with the Central In 2017, PayHere partnered with Central Bank. Business, DirectPay Director/ over the years, as there will be Bank, have taken measures to Sampath Bank to make services The vision statement of Founder Kanishka Weeramunda low transaction volumes and provide alternative platforms for more efficient, by resolving WEBXPAY is “to enable micro, WEBXPAY, DirectPay, and said that international clients prefer certainly not because of regulatory entrepreneurs to use instead of issues such as getting approval of small, and medium businesses all PayHere have more than to only use PayPal as a transaction limitations”. PayPal. clearance from the regulators. After over Sri Lanka to go digital and be millions of transactions recorded platform due to perception of the When asked about the current “Accepting alternative networks a few additional months to ensure part of the digital revolution, whilst within their operating period, brand and the trust the platform has status of the Government’s stance is not a challenge, but a perceptual PayHere was 100% compliant with committing to empowering SMEs all these companies are bringing created over the past years. with regard to PayPal, Central Bank issue of the clients and the regulations, the Central Bank of Sri (small and medium enterprises) in money to Sri Lanka; hence “Any client will prefer to Governor Prof. W.D. Lakshman, customers involved. WEBXPAY, Lanka submitted its approval for across multiple socio-economic we cannot say that without transfer money at PayPal without during the Monetary Policy Review DirectPay, and PayHere have PayHere to resume operations in dimensions”. PayPal, the transaction process a doubt, because it is a globally on 19 January 2021, revealed that more than millions of transactions 2018. Mastercard is affected, without trying the preferred bank, whereas the the progress regarding facilitating recorded within their operating PayHere has three flexible service alternatives alternatives available in Sri Lanka inward remittances will need further period, and all these companies plans to fulfill different business This is another platform are not known by the international effort. are bringing in money to Sri needs, whether a start-up or a large established to support the local DirectPay Director/Founder entrepreneurs; hence transferring However, in August 2020, Lanka; hence we cannot say that Kanishka Weeramunda enterprise, which are PayHere entrepreneurs by enabling fintechs money through this is questioned, Central Bank Payments and without PayPal, the transaction Lite, PayHere PLUS, and PayHere to ride on Mastercard innovation, as it is not yet globally trusted Settlements Department Director process is affected, without trying Premium. and to further innovate and support “Using secure data and networks, and recognised,” Weeramunda D. Kumaratunge told The Sunday the alternatives,” Weeramunda cross-border payments. The purpose partnerships, and passion, our explained. Morning Business that regional emphasised. WEBXPAY of Mastercard is to “connect and innovations and solutions help Furthermore, another vital PayPal officials are in the process “There are a lot of measures and WEBXPAY was launched to power an inclusive digital economy individuals, financial institutions, reason is that local freelancers and of assessing opportunities in Sri innovations taken by the Sri Lankan provide a variety of essential that benefits everyone, everywhere, governments, and businesses realise entrepreneurs receive their payment Lanka to grant the PayPal money- card companies; hence it is time solutions, such as website building by making transactions safe, simple, their greatest potential”, is the after two to three working days receiving facility. for Sri Lankans to start trusting to tools, embedded shopping carts, smart, and accessible”. vision statement of Mastercard. due to the long five-stage process “The Central Bank is continuing accept the platform to continue their and an array of payment gateways. The advantage of using Accordingly, this service is involved while transferring money communication with regional payment methods,” he concluded. the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, January 24, 2021 VIEWS

DIRE NEED FOR ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT The need to diversify a nation’s human resources Chinese and therefore likely to always be By led by an ethnic Chinese Prime Minister, the Constitution guarantees key positions for Dr. Nicholas Ruwan other ethnicities. Dias and Niresh Ethnic diversity is quite evident in the Eliatamby persons who have become President of Singapore, with Indians and Malays being represented, as shown in Fig. 4. The most advanced nations, Practical solutions: economically and socially, are Implementation of quotas those that have optimised the energies of all segments of their Quotas are needed because there is a need to correct an imperfect system causing populations. injustice and unfairness, unless it can be fixed Countries that have progressively quickly enough. implemented steps to include all of The reality is that Sri Lankan women are their diverse population segments into excluded. If women are properly represented, their economies and societies, have also 50% of all state and private sector positions experienced increased growth rates and would be occupied by women, just as it spurred all development as nations. was in the Canadian Cabinet. In Kenya and Those that do not are among the Gender diversity Australia, research on gender quotas shows backward states of the world, such as To achieve a major boost for growth, there that quotas play an important role in “taking those that have marginalised women, the are three key economic factors that must be women’s voices” into processes where differently abled, pregnant persons, the tackled: An increase in the participation of they are otherwise excluded and thereby elderly, or on various other grounds such women in the workforce, an increase in the shortening a phase that can take decades, of as race, religion, caste, etc. amount of hours women work for that are course. paid for (part-term versus the full-time mix A quota for women in state and private Sri Lanka’s situation of jobs); and boost productivity of women sectors would not be an impairment for most Sri Lanka is a diverse nation, with in comparison with men by raising the industries. excellent rates of literacy, life expectancy, productivity of women in high-productivity infant mortality, and other basic indicators. industries and sectors. Women, who make up 52% of But are we as a nation moving forward at graduates, drop out of executive yy If a company has 5,000 workers and they the pace that we should be? Is our society and lower managerial positions due are almost all women, women make up developing and advancing as it should? to the cultural expectancy to marry only 10% of management, and quotas Are we using the strengths of our diverse and serve their families, are hardly need to be implemented to bring about society to the advantage of the nation? represented in senior management, balance. Culturally, Sri Lanka hasn’t moved and extremely rarely end up on the forward much in decades, or the yy Many businesses have a historical DNA; boards of major companies advancement is at a snail’s pace. all of them are occupied by men and are not available to women. European This is in reality the easiest commitment yy Of 8.6 million people who are countries started introducing steps to the Government of Sri Lanka can make. The economically active, 64% are men and improve their corporate boards’ gender evidence and analysis show the advantages just 35% are women diversity. of implementing a gender quota. The private yy Women represent 52% of Sri Lanka’s tournaments it wins, not to mention the is provided for all segments of society In 2004, Norway was the initial member sector could also implement quotas in large population, but women’s parliamentary many other detrimental effects on society. to develop, grow, and flourish, and the of the boards of directors quota for women organisations through the Chambers of representation is only 5.3% These are all well-known facts, but entire nation will become stronger both (40%). Other nations have followed Commerce and Industry. yy little is being done to correct these economically and socially. suit, whether the targets for women’s As of 2017, 36.6% of the overall imbalances toward lack of diversity, Think Singapore, where diverse cultures representation ranging from 25 to 40% Reverse discrimination workforce are female workers (UNDP, which have negative consequences for of ethnic Chinese, Malays, Tamils, and are compulsory quotas (France, Germany, caused by quotas 2018) the competitiveness of companies, the foreigners are all given the opportunity to Iceland, Italy) or voluntary objectives One issue caused by bad implementation Every one of our political parties is economy, and the nation, including society. work hard, learn, and succeed, driving that (Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Spain, of quotas is reverse discrimination, where the heavily dominated by men, despite women nation within a couple of decades into the Southeast Sweden, the UK) quotas themselves can be designed to favour being the majority in the population, and Global scenario ranks of developed nations. Now think India, In Norway, the whole appointment a particular group in an unfair way. For the situation has only been getting worse As with most challenges, Sri Lanka does where despite all its massive advantages procedure of boards was refined when example, if a country reserves a percentage in recent years. It is no coincidence that not need to reinvent the wheel. We simply it continues to languish economically and affirmative action was initiated. The criteria of positions to a particular group far in excess corruption and thuggery are the norm in Sri need to look around at what other progressive socially due to its entrenched discriminatory have been explained, and the duty of the of their presence in the population, this can Lankan politics. Asian nations have done and are doing; at system of caste. election committee has been recognised. The lead to reverse discrimination. The abhorrent practice of many what has worked and what doesn’t work. emphasis was generally improved on the When implementing quotas, it is also companies implementing the cultural For example, many Middle Eastern The reality is that Sri Lankan women composition of the boards. The significance necessary to be careful to ensure that there discrimination of their owners and nations, which limited participation by are excluded. If women are properly of the board and the composition of the board are sufficient numbers of qualified persons senior management teams has led to women in many aspects of society, stunted represented, 50% of all state and were strengthened with this rule. Hiring available in the particular groups, and that many segments of society being under- the growth of their societies, and some are private sector positions would be boards or members of the board was highly action is taken to redress imbalances. For represented even in banks and blue chips, now moving toward increasing women’s occupied by women, just as it was in affected by a kind of networking mindset and example, there is no use reserving 50% of including women, the differently abled, participation. Meanwhile in other nations, the Canadian Cabinet. In Kenya and the close networking they owned. heavy vehicle-driving positions in Sri Lanka and people of different religions, races, notably in East Asia, states that embraced Australia, research on gender quotas for women if there are insufficient women castes, etc. diversity of their people surged ahead shows that quotas play an Malaysia holding heavy vehicle licences. A process Women, who make up 52% of graduates, economically and in societal development. important role In Malaysia, a majority Islamic nation, should then be implemented first or in drop out of executive and lower managerial Very few advanced nations, notably Japan Political quotas as of 2019, 16.6% of total board seats of all parallel to redress this situation. positions due to the cultural expectancy to and South Korea, have developed without PLCs in Bursa Malaysia (stock exchange of © Niresh Eliatamby and Nicholas Ruwan marry and serve their families, are hardly embracing diversity. While the socio-economic status and the Malaysia) were occupied by women. Fig. Dias. represented in senior management, and formal political rights of women in Asia 1 gives an idea of the gender situation in (Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias [BSc, MSc, extremely rarely end up on the boards of Key highlights have greatly improved in recent decades, Malaysia. Fig. 2 provides a snapshot of the PhD] and Niresh Eliatamby [LLB, LLM, major companies. yy Research has shown that the profits and the political institutions in the region, educational situation in Malaysia. MBA] are Managing Partners of Cogitaro. The differently abled are almost output of businesses can be almost 50% particularly at local governance levels, Singapore com, a consultancy that finds practical non-existent in the corporate sector or higher if women are well presented remain under-represented. Though our solutions for challenges facing society, the education sector, and are virtually invisible (Mckinsey, 2020) interest in women’s political participation As shown in Fig. 3, Singapore is a multi- environment, and all types of industries. in society. in Asia has increased in recent years, ethnic community with people identified Dr. Dias is a digital architect and People who reach retirement age are yy As per the United Nations, “even in the we still have limited understanding as Chinese, Malay, Indians, and others, educationist based in Kuala Lumpur, unceremoniously shown the door by most politically combating environment” of women’s experience in electing but takes pride in its multiculturalism and Malaysia. [email protected]. companies, despite the fact that increased women’s participation in political for political leadership positions. The diversity. The Government has focused Eliatamby is an author, journalist, and longevity rates have given them possibly leadership strengthens policy decision- transition of power and resources to local on careful preservation of national racial educationist based in Colombo, Sri many more years of service. making processes officials would increase both the political harmony. Although the majority are ethnic Lanka. [email protected]) The lack of diversity extends even to yy The Booth Club Malaysia is 30% engagement and the representation of “old-school networks” where companies dedicated, through its mentoring women. are more likely to hire candidates who programme, to reach 30% women Education quotas went to certain “reputed” schools, rather representation in the top 100 PLCs (public than giving more qualified candidates their limited companies) by the end of 2020 Education and recruitment processes rightful opportunities (this extends to the must avoid district-based, race-based quota Government as well, where a change of The role of quotas systems. There is no possibility of losing government notoriously brings in groups How does one break a centuries-old chances or placement between one race and of Royalists, Thomians, or Anandians). system that is based on such marginalisation, the other. It is important that the Government Our national sports teams and club if society is averse to making the required understands and insists to its citizens that it teams are dominated by men’s sports. By changes? The answer is to implement cannot allow the country to be irresponsible. virtually ignoring women’s sports, Sri quotas in key sectors such as education, We have to correct the mistakes of the past. Lanka has effectively reduced by more employment, sports, and governance. Education quotas are not working. The than 50% the number of medals and In short, ensure that equal opportunity citizens’ administrative power, economy, and education are wiped out. It transforms into a vicious loop, spiralling downwards. Employment quotas Companies with diverse workforces and management teams are more competitive. Many developed states have implemented quotas to ensure that companies and organisations above a certain number of employees ensure that their workforces and management teams have proper representation of women; people of different races, religions, castes; the differently abled; etc. Discrimination can be clearly seen when a company practises it. 6 the sunday morning business CORPORATE Sunday, January 24, 2021

By Manjula de Silva

Each year, over 640,000 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic leak into the Indian Ocean from Sri Lanka (Clean Cities, Blue Ocean, June 2020). The Western Province alone generates around 7,500 MT of solid waste every day, out of which only 3,500 MT are collected (Central Environmental Authority, 2018). Of this, close to 15% Private/public sector consultations conducted by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, together with brand owners, Biodiversity Sri Lanka, CEA, and USAID become compost, 10% is recycled, and 75% is thrown into open dumps. While plastic has been used to make essential products more accessible, the impact on the Addressing Sri Lanka’s environment also needs to be addressed.

As consumerism evolves, the Earth continues to suffer. For over plastic waste management half a century, consumers have been placed at the forefront to bear the brunt of the burden they have placed z Ceylon Chamber of Commerce formulates EPR roadmap on the Earth. But are consumers only to blame? Consumers are which producers are given the thought process, we looked towards was addressed through a private there will be reward mechanisms consider what more could be a key stakeholder in the waste responsibility – either financial and/ global best practices and success sector-based framework known set in place to further reinforce and done with the existing products management process, but they or physical – for the treatment or stories of systems implemented as the South African Packaging encourage these organisations that in the market. To this end, EPR share this responsibility alongside disposal of post-consumer products. across six different nations Agreement. Under this agreement, move beyond the threshold. The will play a role in ensuring better legislators, civil society, importers EPR is a critical tool in driving varying in GDP, environmental importers ensure that all quantities Chamber will also ensure that brand waste management at large, of plastic, and producers who use linear economies into a circular and manufacturing policies, and of packaging are put into circulation owners maintain transparent records while subsequently minimising plastic in their manufacturing and economy, as they supplement implemented EPR frameworks. on a quarterly basis. With the EPR of their collection and recycling the ecological footprint created packaging processes. an extended product cycle even The case studies were taken systems in place, South African data. if producers had to switch to an EPR is a systematic approach after the product’s initial use. from Indonesia, India, Japan, the brand owners, manufactures, and The Initial EPR system will be alternate single-use material. to ensuring commitment Assigning such responsibility could Netherlands, Kenya, and South producers collaborate towards rolled out for recyclable materials It is imperative to consider to the waste hierarchy of in principle provide incentives to Africa. their vision of supporting material like PET and HIPS, which are what more could be done the three Rs by facilitating prevent waste at the source, promote It is important to note that some reduction, recycling, recovery, and materials used in the packaging of with the existing products in producers to remain environmentally friendly product of the most compelling producer- other related activities. commonly found food like beverage the market. To this end, EPR responsible in the treatment design, and support the achievement led initiatives were present in South In Sri Lanka, the Chamber, and yoghurt products. Both products will play a role in ensuring and disposal of post-consumer of national recycling goals. Africa, where the country’s plastic together with the United States are recyclable. Primary packaging better waste management products. This at present is a EPR is a systematic approach to and overall waste management issue Agency for International such as PET which exists in the at large, while subsequently more sustainable tool over ensuring commitment to the Development (USAID), market already are a safer alternative minimising the ecological bans waste hierarchy of the three Ministry of Environment, to single-use plastics. While PET footprint created if producers Rs by facilitating producers Marine Environment Protection is a part of the larger plastic family, had to switch to an alternate Today’s consumers are even to remain responsible in the Authority (MEPA), Central it is recyclable and can be recycled single-use material more aware of what they consume treatment and disposal of post- Environmental Authority many times over before it is no and hold these products, services, consumer products. This at (CEA), and Biodiversity longer suitable for consumption. The The new bans on the plastic and brands to renewed standards present is a more sustainable Sri Lanka, over the past product does not contain HDPE, is packaging and waste generation of transparency and accountability. tool over bans, as most products two years has been actively BPA-free, and has made significant may come as a rude awakening, Due to this, the conversation on are created for utility and cannot engaged on this subject. improvements over the past 30 as these bans will only take away sustainability among brands has be removed from the market The most recent progress years, as producers are now using a from the end consumer’s quality shifted from a mere marketing overnight. For recyclable items includes the completion of lighter version of the product than of life. Enforcing an industry-level gimmick to a legitimate requirement such as PET (polyethylene three consultations with key they did three decades ago. EPR programme will be a more that is demanded by the next terephthalate) and HIPS (high- stakeholders from across the rational alternative to banning generation of consumers the world impact polystyrene) plastic, waste management ecosystem The reality the use of the recyclable plastic over. better alternatives need to on this novel approach. Everyone stands to benefit from material altogether. That is why The three “R”s of responsible be sought which encourage As a positive outcome, all collectively playing a collaborative all stakeholders should remain waste management – reduce, reuse, recovery and recyclability. stakeholders who were role in managing our waste problem. accountable and responsible, and recycle – will remain the engaged in these consultations, EPR is only a single but extremely reaffirming the role that we holy mantra across the spectrum The way forward including the private sector, crucial extension of a larger play as individual consumers, of sustainability. However, as Over the past two years, were willing to participate solution that holds the ecosystem of manufacturers, collectors, recyclers, producers take up accountability, we at the Ceylon Chamber throughout the initiative and stakeholders accountable from the and policymakers in this larger we have to ask some important of Commerce were working are awaiting to come into time the product is designed to the waste management issue. After questions. Are organisations able together with key stakeholders, an agreement on taking the time the consumer disposes of it, and all, the circle will never truly be to switch to plastic alternatives from public sector participants proposed EPR processes until it reaches back to the recycling complete until all of us are bound and meet their current demands? to recyclers and collectors; forward. and production process again. together to do our part. And how will this affect the manufacturers, brand The voluntary EPR model, In Sri Lanka, we are fortunate (The writer is the Secretary product design and its safety for owners, and importers; and which will soon be introduced to have over 300 plastic/polythene General and CEO of the Ceylon consumption? Elimination and environmental lobbyists to in Sri Lanka, will be the first of collectors working across the island, Chamber of Commerce. The reduction will only take away from address the issue of post- its kind. With this Mandatory providing material to recyclers. Ceylon Chamber of Commerce the end consumer’s ease of access to consumer plastic recycling. In Reporting and Collect-Back More often than not, these recyclers is implementing a project titled the product. The end consumers, in our work towards developing System, brand owners, run under capacity. A steady “Introduction of an Extended this case, are Sri Lankans like you feasible solutions for post- importers, and manufacturers provision of the required feedstock Producer Responsibility System for and I. consumer plastic recycling and will have to report their annual will enable them to function at full Plastic Recycling” in collaboration plastic waste management, sales volume of primary capacity and empower them to with the Ministry of Environment How do we address the we have formulated an EPR packaging used. further enhance their contribution and the Central Environment issue of plastic waste? roadmap with the collective The collection targets given to the national economy. Mitigation Authority, with the main objective This is where extended producer input and partnership of all to each brand owner will be of waste and better management of of providing essential support responsibility (EPR) comes into key stakeholders, which we based on the country’s set resources through recycling post- for a circular economy for post- play. According to the Organisation are hoping to roll out with target for collection, and this consumer products will provide for consumer plastic recycling and for Economic Co-Operation and the approval of the relevant will progressively increase a robust and sustainable solution that management in order to minimise Development (OECD), EPR government authorities. over the years. If brands are to is readily available at our fingertips. plastic loadings to the coastal and is a policy mechanism through As we were initiating this exceed their collection target, Therefore, it is imperative to marine environment.) LOLC Life Assurance reaches Rs. 3 b GWP LOLC Life Assurance, a fully of aggressive market penetration and it is undeniably our key Advertorial with a greater regional business owned subsidiary of the LOLC and by introducing a wide range attribute. These exceptional traits expansion. Furthermore, business Group, recently became Sri Lanka’s of flexible and customer-centric along with the backing of the technology and infrastructure in will be supported by reinforcing first life insurance company to products that are designed and stalwart LOLC Group, gives us place to conduct business as usual. our digital transformation achieve Rs. 3 billion Gross Written developed in line with the evolving a significant advantage over the We sought innovation as a key initiatives, expanding the Premium (GWP) in less than 10 customer trends. The company was rest. Furthermore, the unstinted catalyst in enhancing business product portfolio, and placing years. The company reached this able to unleash this growth mainly support, guidance, and the growth with uninterrupted service more emphasis on our service feat during the month of December due to its significant increase in visionary leadership of the LOLC to our customers, partners, and standards. LOLC Life envisages 2020, making it the fastest-growing new business building. In 2020 Life Assurance and LOLC Board field staff. This helped the company to expand the nationwide reach life insurance company in Sri alone, the company recorded a of Directors, helped us to perform accelerate its sales and maintained by establishing approximately 70 Lanka. LOLC Life Assurance Chief growth rate of 56% in new life exceptionally. I must say that as operations. The staff was aptly dedicated insurance branches, thus Executive Officer (CEO) Nadika business, which was a notable a company, we have much more equipped with the required penetrating new regions. Opatha talks of the company’s growth rate amidst many challenges We were able to reach this ground to cover and many more resources to do so. LOLC Life LOLC Life aims to reach secret to success and its plans for faced by the industry during 2020. milestone within a short span milestones to achieve as we expand launched new products suitable to closer to its potential customer the future. of time because we moved both locally and internationally. the times and needs much faster base in a highly under-penetrated You have achieved Rs. 3 billion away from the traditional way and reached the market more life insurance market with only Tell us about your company’s GWP in less than a decade. What is of doing business, to a more Was there any adverse impact efficiently with the support of its about 10% of the total eligible performance over the years and your company’s secret to success? modern, technologically driven on the company as a result of dynamic team, even during the population having life insurance what led to these impressive We were able to reach this approach which is in line with Covid-19? crisis. Having a very effective in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, during numbers. milestone within a short span the needs of the customers and From an economic and social business continuity plan too helped the 2021 financial year, LOLC Although LOLC Life was of time because we moved our partners perspective, last year was probably us to ensure continued operations Life looks forward to spreading established in 2011, distribution away from the traditional way LOLC Life Assurance CEO the most difficult year in Sri nationally. its wings to strategically selected channels were set up in 2013. of doing business, to a more Nadika Opatha Lanka’s recent history. However, overseas markets. The company Ever since, we have been modern, technologically driven LOLC Life Assurance remained What’s in store for LOLC Life has already acquired the license growing steadily. The company’s approach which is in line with dynamism, commitment, as well resilient during the Covid-19 in 2021? to operate in Cambodia and market share has been growing the needs of the customers and as their professionalism helped pandemic, as the company was In 2021, the company hopes the operations are scheduled to consistently, mainly as a result our partners. Our staff and their us increase our market presence, already geared with the necessary to continue its growth trajectory commence in 2021. the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, January 24, 2021 ECONOMY

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Would you believe it if I told you that Sri Lanka was very early in introducing a national identity card (NIC) – which it did in the early 1970s – to all of its citizens who were at least Digitalising 16 years of age, compared to other countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Bangladesh, India, and Iran? Ironically, however, as one of the first countries that introduced identities: it, Sri Lanka is far behind many developed countries in digitalising its NIC.

Over the past few years, the Sri Lankan Government has been promising the digitalisation of the Economic NIC, which is yet to be witnessed. While crossing fingers with the hope that the digital NIC would not be another “free Wi-Fi to every Sri Lankan” project, Market Mine of The Sunday Morning Business is taking a look at Sri Lanka’s attempts cost or a to introduce the digital NIC and at ways it could benefit and impact the country’s economy. Before delving into the Sri Lankan Government’s numerous “attempts” and promises made in developing a digital NIC, it would benefit? be ideal to understand what a digital NIC is in the first place. As Thales Group, a French multinational company that designs and builds electrical systems, puts it, a digital scheme in Myanmar. Some of to power in November 2019, it spearheading and the main project and the government incurs an is a key enabler for modernising NIC is “a set of validated digital these programmes now include firmly stated that the digital ID for is the development of the Sri Lanka annual operating cost to maintain public services such as those attributes and credentials for the biometrics, the majority in the form all Sri Lankans is its top priority. unique digital ID framework. That the system. related to healthcare, welfare digital world, similar to a person’s of fingerprints,” Thales noted. The current President seems to would function as the root for all The report further noted that payments, certifications, and identity for the real world. Usually Furthermore, schemes such as the have a keen interest in improving other services in the country that the capital and operating costs licenses. It boosts convenience for issued or regulated by a national ID “GOV.UK Verify” initiative were digital infrastructure, as he had also require identification. He said incurred by a country during the users, eliminates potential travel scheme, a digital identity serves to started in 2016, and Australia too emphasised the implementation of that the Sri Lanka unique digital start-up phase and steady state of costs, and minimises waiting uniquely identify a person online or launched the first phase of its digital the Data Protection Bill, which is ID framework has already been an ID system vary on a number times by allowing remote online offline”. identity programme in August 2017. still languishing due to unknown developed and the implementation of implementation options. Based authentication. These digital NICs include France also announced in early reasons. is currently being discussed and on the study, the most high- “From a government perspective, attributes such as a unique 2018 its national eID scheme for fall Then came the Covid-19 arranged. impact cost components observed the technology enhances identity number, social security 2019. Canada is also progressing pandemic. Surprisingly, the “Biometrics would be taken across the start-up phase of an administrative efficiency – number, name, place, date of with its federal digital identity Government did not make it an for each person, and it would be ID system have been compiled reducing paperwork, speeding up birth, citizenship, biometrics, and scheme named Pan-Canadian excuse to delay its plans, as the related to a digital ID. Once it and categorised into six core cost processing, and reducing the risk many more fields defined by the Trust Framework, piloted by the Cabinet of Ministers approved is implemented, it would serve categories: human resources, ID of identity fraud. Beyond public respective national law. Thales noted Digital ID Authentication Council a proposal to implement the Sri as the source that feeds identity- credential, central IT infrastructure, services, the digital ID can support that with specific credentials, for of Canada (DIACC), a non-profit Lanka Unique Digital Identity related information to all other enrolment IT infrastructure, citizen participation, for example example a unique ID number like organisation. A national proof of (SL-UDI) Framework and e-NIC applications that require such data physical establishments, and through electronic voting,” in India, a mobile ID like in Finland concept project for a unified login Project. The proposal briefed that for unique identification purposes IEC (information, education, McKinsey adds. or Estonia, or an eID card like in authentication service called Sign the Government would adopt a in the country, such as in the case of communication). These six Furthermore, the digital ID Germany, Italy, Spain, or Portugal, In Canada started in the fall of Unique Digital Identity Framework driving licenses. Therefore, this will categories remain the most pertinent supports consumers and businesses it can be used to authenticate its 2018. Aadhaar (India’s national eID and a strategy to facilitate the said be the source that would feed the even in countries with mature ID through benefits that include owner. scheme) crossed the one-billion framework in order to achieve the digital identification data to all other systems (i.e., ID systems effectively streamlined registration and users mark​ in 2016. At the end of “Smart Nation” goal, which is one services,” he added. in the steady state), though the authentication processes, secure Digital NICs around the 2018, 1.2 billion Indian residents got of the 10 key goals of the national Furthermore, commenting on cost impact of one or two of these digital payments, and digital high- world: A brief look their Aadhaar ID (99% of adults), a policy framework “Vistas of how they would address concerns categories has at times significantly assurance contracting, for example The United Nations (UN) and digital identity that can be obtained Prosperity and Splendour”. regarding privacy and individual surpassed that of others. through digital notary services, World Bank (WB)’s ID4D initiative based on their biometric and rights with the implementation “While most of the components according to McKinsey. aims to provide everyone on the demographic data.​ of this framework, he stated: “If related to the ID credential, central It further adds that the planet with a legal identity by 2030. you analyse the current situation, IT infrastructure, and enrolment technology is particularly useful for ID4D directly supports countries to Sri Lanka’s progress a person’s birth certificate would infrastructure categories are often industries that collect significant achieve Sustainable Development towards digitalised at least be in eight places, and it sourced from global suppliers, amounts of customer data, such as Target 16.9, which is: “By 2030, identities is available on paper. People are the cost components pertaining to financial services. It can also be a provide legal identity for all, The digital ID project was feeding their ID card information the human resources and physical key enabler of simplified know- including birth registration,” and reportedly proposed initially in 2012 to various systems already. In establishments categories are very your-customer solutions. also supports in making progress when current President Gotabaya this case, all the information that dependent on the local context… “The digital ID can substantially towards dozens of other targets such Rajapaksa was the Defence is taken would be secured and The costs incurred against the streamline relations between as poverty elimination, reduced Secretary. However, the project did would be in one place in a national human resources category tend to governments and the private inequalities, gender equality and not take off. repository. This would be in a be the biggest contributor across sector in areas including women’s empowerment, safe and In 2015, the then Government separate section of the government the countries studied, followed corporate registrations, taxes, orderly migration, universal health announced plans to launch digital ID Furthermore, the proposal cloud, separately built for the digital by the ID credential and central economic support, permits, and coverage, and financial inclusion, cards by early 2016, by prioritising which was submitted by President ID framework. Even now, the IT infrastructure (both central authorisations. By enabling online among others. it above all other development Rajapaksa noted that the said identity card information of about and enrolment IT software and IT interactions, the technology can According to Thales, at the initiatives of the Budget. The programme has been given priority six million people is available at hardware components) categories,” lead to significant cost savings. ID2020 summit in May 2016 authorisation to issue the cards as a national-level programme. the Department for Registration of the report notes. Further, it supports regulatory in New York, the UN initiated was vested with the Department “The Unique Digital Identity Persons. What happens here is that McKinsey’s analysis of Brazil, compliance, providing fraud-secure discussions around digital identity, for Registration of Persons and Framework for Sri Lanka has data will be coupled with biometrics China, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, paths for activities such as age blockchain, and cryptographic the Information Communication been prepared together with the so that crimes like the forgery of ID the UK, and the US indicates and background checks,” it added technologies, and its benefits for Technology Agency (ICTA). That Information and Communication cards would not happen.” that individual countries further. the underprivileged. Four hundred same year, the Cabinet of Ministers Technology Agency of Sri Lanka He added that the country already could unlock economic value According to McKinsey, the experts shared best practices and ratified the proposal to issue digital (ICTA) and the Department for has a government cloud, and added equivalent to between 3-13% digital ID can create economic ideas on how to provide universal ID cards. However, the project is yet the Registration of Persons, and that the circular on this framework of GDP in 2030 from the value for countries primarily by identity to all. to get off the ground and the then implementation of the e-NIC states that all government systems implementation of digital ID enabling greater formalisation The digital ID is a key Government attributed the delays to project has been identified as one of should use the Lankan government programmes – which could of economic flows, promoting enabler for modernising a lack of clarity as to the ownership the components to be implemented cloud and network. He added that a also be possible in Sri Lanka higher inclusion of individuals in public services such as those of the project as of October 2018. under the said project,” the proposal separate area is being built for this a range of services, and allowing related to healthcare, welfare On 18 October 2018, The Sunday noted. purpose in the government cloud. The report concludes by incremental digitisation of sensitive payments, certifications, and Morning Business exclusively The proposal, finalised by the “This is a new project. Digital ID emphasising that every country interactions that require high levels licenses. It boosts convenience reported that the long-delayed Rs. 8 Programme Preparation Committee, projects have been there previously. has certain characteristics that of trust. Their analyses of Brazil, for users, eliminates potential billion Digital Identity Card Project also sought approval of the Unique But in this new one, even the iris influence the cost structure; these China, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, travel costs, and minimises was set to commence by January Digital Identity Framework for of the eye will also be scanned are exogenous elements over the UK, and the US indicate that waiting times by allowing 2019, with a pilot project to issue Sri Lanka, the appointment of a for biometric data. Once you give which programme designers individual countries could unlock remote online authentication digital ID cards to social welfare Presidential Task Force to provide your identity details, you won’t have no control. These country economic value equivalent to beneficiaries, although problems the necessary guidance to establish have to carry documentation on characteristics often determine the between 3-13% of GDP in 2030 Soon after, the ID2020 Alliance persisted as to the ownership of the the Unique Digital Identity most occasions. Depending on the allocation of resources (e.g., skilled from the implementation of digital was created. Based in New York, project. Framework for Sri Lanka, vesting application, there will be various human resources, number and ID programmes – which could also the NGO’s (nongovernmental Speaking to The Sunday the responsibility of implementation levels of authentication. I believe share of mobile enrolment units) be possible in Sri Lanka. organisation) main participants Morning Business, then Minister of the Unique Digital Identity that in Oman, there is no physical deployed by a government in the Even though Sri Lanka would include Accenture, Microsoft, of Telecommunication and Digital Framework Project with the ICTA, documentation needed at the airport ID programme. The impact of each incur a cost in the initial stages, Gavi The Vaccine Alliance, The Infrastructure Harin Fernando at that the implementation of the e-NIC – that is the ultimate stage of digital individual country characteristic implementation of the digital ID Rockefeller Foundation, and IDEO- point said he planned to launch the Project together with the ICTA and transformation we aim to achieve,” over each key cost category varies would be immensely beneficial ORG, Thales added. nationwide project in 2019, based on the Department for the Registration he added. by country. These characteristics are for its economy and would help “Numerous new National eID the success of the pilot. of Persons, and making required often interlinked with the ID system the country keep up with its Asian programmes (including card “There is a bit of a clash regarding amendments to the Registration Economic cost of design choices that a country peers. According to the reports and mobile-based schemes and the exact ownership of the money of Persons Act No. 32 of 1968 to adopting a digital ID decides to adopt. referred and research done in unrelated to ID2020) were launched allocated. The money has been facilitate the implementation of According to a World Bank report However, as per the previous order to compile this article, the or initiated. Examples include allocated to the Digital Infrastructure Unique Digital Identity Framework compiled on “Cost Categories for Government’s plan, the allocation digital ID is no doubt one of the new projects in Algeria, Belgium Ministry, but the ownership of the and the e-NIC Project. The project an ID system”, when countries made for the Digital ID project best investments a country could (mobile ID), Cameroon, Ecuador, card remains with the ID department was said to be completed by 31 are thinking of an investment in was approximately Rs. 8 billion. make. But, of course, it has to be Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Italy, Iran, (Department for Registration of December 2022 – again, fingers a new ID system, the spending is The cost might have changed at the implemented the right way, where Japan, Senegal, Thailand, and Persons). That is where the law has crossed. typically done across two phases: moment but the Government is yet citizens’ rights and privacy are Turkey; major announcements now been reviewed. There are some Meanwhile, in an interview The initial “start-up” phase where to disclose the new project cost. protected. Sri Lanka shifting to in Afghanistan, ​Denmark, the changes we need to make and we with The Morning two weeks ago, the ID system is conceptualised, adopt the digital ID, along with Netherlands, Bulgaria, the are looking at different models,” ICTA Chief Executive Officer designed, developed, and rolled How would a digital NIC the implementation of its proposed Maldives, Norway, Liberia, the Fernando had noted. But as you (CEO) Eng. Mahinda B. Herath out nationwide; the subsequent benefit Sri Lanka? Data Protection Bill, is definitely Philippines (PhilSys ID), Poland, guessed, the project did not happen. stated that there are several “steady” state: When the system has As McKinsey & Company an economic benefit for the Jamaica, Zambia, and a pilot When the new Government came national-level projects the ICTA is reached a high level of coverage elaborates in depth, the digital ID country. 8 the sunday morning business ADVERTORIAL Sunday, January 24, 2021 Bank of Ceylon reviews 2020 performance The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) stated it has disbursed more than Rs. 39 billion under the Saubagya COVID-19 Renaissance Facility by extending working capital to Covid-19- affected businesses. Further, the bank disbursed Rs. 128 billion The Architect 2021 Exhibition Committee at the launch on 15 January to the development and agriculture sector, including credit facilities under its “Divi Udana” loans scheme. In its review of the nine months ended 30 ‘Architect 2021’ to September 2020, BOC recorded a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs 16.6 billion, and a Profit After tax (PAT) of Rs 11.7 billion, despite the be held in February challenges posed by the 24% of the industry, maintains its international Architect 2021 will Hotel Kingsbury Colombo showcase the projects undertaken will provide educational pandemic. BOC’s total increased during the rating on par with the be inaugurated on 17 under Covid guidelines of the by SLIA members. sessions encompassing income for the period year, despite low interest sovereign. February, followed up by Sri Lanka Government and Architect 2021, themed “The the various aspects of the stood at Rs. 181.8 billion, rates. The Bank’s deposit BOC was also able the National Conference health authorities. It saw the Social Responsibility of the profession of architecture marking a marginal base of Rs. 2.3 trillion to expand its customer the following day. The participation of the previous Architect”, aims at increasing throughout the exhibition. A increase of 2% year- represents 33% of the service by opening one ceremonial opening of the year’s patrons – stallholders and public awareness, access, and special event has also been on-year (YoY), while Current and Saving new branch and two exhibition is scheduled sponsors, along with a host of interaction in the field. The scheduled in association with non-fund-based income deposit (CASA) base, new ‘Limited Service’ for 19 February, and it will special invitees and members general public will be able to the Organisation of Professional of Rs. 12.9 billion – an which generates funds at branches, and has be open to the general of the Sri Lanka Institute of interact with architects and will Association Sri Lanka to increase of Rs. 1.7 billion low cost. The bank also relocated 22 branches public for three days till 21 Architects (SLIA). have the opportunity of a one-on- address issues pertaining to the YoY – and an exchange recorded the highest level during the year in review. Exhibition Committee one free consultancy service with construction industry. gain of Rs. 3.6 billion of inward remittances As of now, the bank has February, from 10 a.m. to Chairman Rohana Bandara a panel of architects for guidance Architect 2020, the exhibition’s contributed to this of $ 2.7 billion as at expanded its network 10 p.m. Herath, and a speech by and direction for all construction- most recent edition, featured 132 growth. end December 2020, an to up to 2,000 local Architect 2021 was scheduled SLIA President Veranjan related problems encountered by companies occupying 209 stalls BOC added that its increase of 1.2% YoY. customer touch points. to be launched on 13 October Kurukulasuriya, set in motion them. exhibiting the latest products on assets base grew by In addition to the latest The bank earned global 2020, but due to the pandemic the evening’s proceedings which The layout of the exhibition offer by the industry. During its 17% to Rs. 2.8 trillion, Rs. 10 billion Additional recognition as one of the situation in the country, was advanced to the presentation is designed adhering to the duration of four days, more than backed by an increase of Tier 1 (AT 1) Bond issue Top 1,000 banks in the postponed to 15 January 2021; of the new trade stall positions Covid prevention guidelines. 50,000 individuals visited the 25% in the loan book. on 1 December 2020, world, as listed by The it was held at the Balmoral, and Members Panel Display to In addition, a members’ forum exhibition. The loan book stood the Bank successfully Banker Magazine, UK, at Rs. 1.9 trillion, and executed the issuance with the country rank both Government and of its first AT1 Bond No.1. BOC was also private sector lending of Rs. 5 billion during awarded the “Peoples contributed to growth, the month of July 2020. Banking Service Brand Cenmetrix Sri Lanka awarded RFID including lending to These bond issuances of the Year” at the SLIM major infrastructure resulted in further – Nielsen’s Peoples software project for US client development projects strengthening the capital Awards 2020, which initiated by the base of the bank by reflects the brand’s Cenmetrix was recently Chittananda Kulatilake said: Government, funding providing the required strength among the awarded a project to develop a “We have been a market leader requirements for mid- capital base for business general public. Radio Frequency Identification in Sri Lanka when it comes to corporates for business expansion. Meanwhile, Brand (RFID) document management identity management solutions, expansion, lending to The bank’s Tier I Finance Lanka, in software solution for a large be it biometrics or RFID-based. the SME sector, and Capital and Total Capital partnership with Media US corporate that specialises in Our client recognised the fact that other priority sectors ratio stood at 10.4% and Services (Pvt.) Ltd. providing storage and innovative we had great domain knowledge such as agriculture, 14.0%, respectively, as has ranked BOC as efficiency systems to all types of the product and solution, and fisheries and related at 30 September 2020, the country’s No. 1 of businesses and government we had a team that was highly industries. Term loans, which are above the Banking brand and the agencies in the US. capable of getting the job done. scheme loans, personal regulatory norms. The No.1 Bank for the last The RFID solution allows each Our past track record of delivery loans and overdrafts bank’s liquidity position twelve consecutive document to be tagged with an of software and hardware were key contributors was also at a favorable years in their Brand RFID sticker, with document projects gave an affirmation to loan growth during level, reporting a 29% Annual publication. details recorded against the to the customer that we could the period. The term statutory liquid assets BOC won its place as RFID tag. When the document deliver. We are excited that we loan portfolio grew by ratio, above its norm one of the Most Admired is stored, the stored location is an authorised movement with benefits, such as classification of were selected to develop this 28%, demonstrating of 20%. The bank Companies in Sri Lanka, will be saved and it can be read the use of RFID readers fixed documents by type, credentials, application.” the Bank’s support in successfully managed to as denoted by the using a handheld reader. In at the doors. If the movement and access management for Cenmetrix is a Sri Lankan terms of working capital maintain its Fitch local International Chamber addition, while documents are is unauthorised, the system handling specific documents. digital identity management requirements. rating at AA+, remaining of Commerce Sri Lanka, moved through the building, the generates an alarm. The system Elaborating on being awarded solutions company counting over The bank’s deposit steady as a resilient CIMA Sri Lanka, and application monitors whether it is also equipped with other the project, Cenmetrix Director 15 years of market experience. base, which represents market leader, and Daily FT. Softlogic unveils first-ever Calvin Gem and Jewellery Association Klein flagship store in Sri Lanka donates PCR machine to Softlogic Brands (Pvt.) Ltd., a fully owned Kandy National Hospital subsidiary of Softlogic Holdings PLC, expanded In support of the its foothold in the nation’s fight against the fashion retail space in the pandemic, the Sri Lanka country by opening Sri Gem and Jewellery Lanka’s first-ever Calvin Association (SLGJA) Klein flagship store at recently donated a PCR Level 1, One Galle Face machine worth Rs. 5 Mall, Colombo 2 on million to the Kandy 14 January. The new National Hospital. 2,600-square foot store The PCR machine will features the Calvin Klein enable the hospital to collection for men and produce results fasters women. with rapid detection The sportswear to treat patients and collection consists of thereby support the evening/formal wear such Government’s measures as shirts, polos, pants, to fight the pandemic and shoes while Calvin and eradicate it across Officials of the SLGJA, Kandy National Hospital, and the State Ministry after the donation of Klein jeans flip the script the island. the PCR machine with casual jeans, shorts, Pathirage at the unveiling segment, we have always nothing but the best of Speaking of the increase testing and SLGJA is extremely taken and testing to t-shirts, sneakers, slip- of the Calvin Klein store. endeavoured to provide the world’s most desired donation, Kandy improve their resources pleased to support the manage transmissions, ons, and caps. He further added: “Sri a best-in-class retail brands.” National Hospital to control transmissions. nation and the Kandy we can ensure a safe and “We are proud to Lanka is transforming experience within our Global retail sales Chairman Mohan Speaking of the National Hospital healthy nation.” have partnered with into a premier shopping stores that resonate with of Calvin Klein brand Samarakonne thanked donation, SLGJA with our donation. Also present were one of the most iconic destination for locals the brand and consumer products exceeded $ 9 State Minister of Gem Chairman Ahsen Refai We encourage all SLGJA Treasurer fashion brands in the and travellers alike, alike. Today’s (14) billion in 2019 and were and Jewellery-related said: “Our Board and Sri Lankans to work Shazeen Farook and industry. Calvin Klein and Softlogic is a key opening is yet another distributed in over 110 Industries Lohan members strongly feel together and manage Executive Committee needs no introduction,” cog in that evolution. milestone reached in countries. Calvin Klein Ratwatte and the SLGJA the need to support and the challenges that lay Members Punsiri said Softlogic Holdings Especially when it comes our relentless pursuit employs over 11,500 for strengthening the protect the nation in in front of us. Together Tennakoon and Muslim PLC Chairman Ashok to the fashion retail to offer our consumers associates globally. hospital’s ability to this time of need. The with safety precautions Salahudeen.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 HOW ‘PROFESSIONAL’ ARE SRI LANKA’S MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS? »SEE PAGE 4

THE ENIGMATIC SLOTH BEAR »SEE PAGE 3

Sunday, January 24, 2021 brunchMMCA Sri Lanka Chief Curator Sharmini Pereira Memory is the process; its result, the memorial A chat with artist and activist Prof. Chandraguptha Thenuwara

BY DIMITHRIWIJESINGHE whole and its role in society, providing that it is an A panel discussion was important tool in addressing held by the Centre for Policy conflict situations, where Alternatives on 18 January years of repression, social regarding the politics of inequality, and injustice memorialisation, stemming have created polarised from the recent incident that communities. took place in Jaffna with Memory initiatives can regards to the destruction of be a great healer and an the Mullivaikkal Memorial enabler of reconciliation, inside the Jaffna University paving ways and premises, which was erected opportunities for dialogue, in memory of the students understanding, apologising, and civilians who lost their acknowledging, and lives in the war. addressing past violence The discussion shed between divided societies. light on memorialisation as a ││Contd. on page 2

We have more Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery legacy to gain by celebrated at SLDF BY VENESSA ANTHONY

Over the past 2,500 years, Sri Lanka has supplied some of the finest blue sapphires seen and focusing locally worn around the world, and ranks amongst the best MMCA Sri Lanka’s Sharmini Pereira talks about Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art sourcing countries for fine sapphires, along with over 50 varieties of coloured BY NAVEED ROZAIS gemstones. As part of their Sri Lanka is the single most In many countries and cultures, modern art tends to fly under the radar, “Design Katha” segment, important and ancient of the Sri Lanka Design all gem origins known to with attention paid more to classical and 19th-Century art. Festival (SLDF) 2021 us today. The country used This is not to say that modern artists aren’t recognised, but that sometimes hosted “Holding the World to be known as a utopian Enchanted: A Journey into land of natural beauty, and their work isn’t treated in quite the same way as older art is, especially the Heart of Sri Lanka’s thankfully, nothing changed when it comes to preservation, documentation, and exhibition. Gem and Jewellery Legacy” NGJA, SLGJA, FCCISL, on 16 January. and Facets Sri Lanka board ││Contd. on page 2 ││Contd. on page 4 member Armil Sammoon 2 the sunday morning brunch ARTS/CAUSE Sunday, January 24, 2021 its decisions and activities. The challenge ÄÄ What is Sri Lanka’s opened in August after the first lockdown was to make this a reality and to deliver a contemporary art scene and finally deinstalled the exhibition in museum of modern and contemporary art like? How does it compare September. where everyone feels welcome and leaves internationally and what sets We have a three-year exhibition wanting to return. our contemporary art apart programme which sees our next large-scale exhibition opening mid-2021. Each show ÄÄ What is the MMCA’s larger from that of other countries takes approximately one to two years to vision for Sri Lankan artists? and cultures? put together and is curated by a member of Our larger vision is to build a Sri Lanka’s art scene continues to the MMCA Sri Lanka team or an invited collection of modern and contemporary grow given the size of the island. What sets curator. Sri Lankan artists. Building such a us apart at this point in time is knowing Between the large-scale exhibitions, collection, which is long overdue, involves how much work there is that needs to be we also have programmes that are not considerable costs and expertise. An exhibited, collected, written about, and exhibition-related such as Press Play, art collection of this nature requires discussed. Not surprisingly, research and which was part of the recent edition of the building a temperature-controlled storage training is a huge part of the MMCA Sri SLDF. We are also doing a lot of work with environment – a must in a climate such Lanka’s activities over the next five years. schools and the education sector, including as ours. It also requires having a trained Rather than comparing ourselves with Students of Colombo International School attending an exhibition at the MMCA Sri Lanka a deep dive into the national curriculum staff of museum experts such as registers, what goes on internationally, I think we to see what is being taught. The way we conservators, art handlers, and curators. have more to gain by focusing locally. curate going forward will be informed by Moreover, whatever is collected Becoming acquainted with what is on our such research along with conversations will need to grapple with an acquisition doorstep forces us to look deeper so that with focus groups. Ultimately, the MMCA process where priorities need to be set we have a more stratified understanding of Sri Lanka needs to be relevant to the art We have more ... art histories in the country. Without this, and collection policies established. One histories that are rooted here or that have Contd. from page 1 Festival 2021 (SLDF), creating Press of the most interesting tasks in building what else is there to distinguish us from been re-rooted here. This is what will make Play, a series of specially curated playlists a collection of Sri Lankan modern and any other art scene? the MMCA Sri Lanka distinctive. There can often be an exclusion of conceived by the team at MMCA Sri contemporary art will be to identify sorts. Perhaps because modern art is not Lanka in collaboration with artists, artists that have been forgotten or ÄÄ What was the pandemic as easy to understand as older art, and also designers, curators, art historians, and arts overlooked, including those who do not like for the MMCA and possibly because we don’t yet know which One of the most interesting tasks in organisations from Sri Lanka. reside in Sri Lanka. contemporary artists? artists will stand the test of time to become building a collection of Sri Lankan The Sunday Morning Brunch I think many artists will be interested As for everyone, the pandemic hit legends along the lines of Van Gogh or modern and contemporary art will be to connected with MMCA Sri Lanka Chief in being part of the collection because us financially, programmatically, and Vermeer (whose work, incidentally, only identify artists that have been forgotten Curator Sharmini Pereira for a look at the they will not only have the assurance of emotionally. What it taught us, however, was gained recognition after their deaths and has or overlooked, including those who do MMCA Sri Lanka story and Sri Lanka’s knowing their work will not only be looked the value of collaboration and of working been preserved only because of museum not reside in Sri Lanka contemporary art scene. after, but that it will also be shared with together to get through adversity, which collectors and the like who saw the need to the public and students through collection is what our small team did by putting its preserve and protect such work). ÄÄ Tell us about the history of displays, exhibitions, talks, and loans to ÄÄ How does the MMCA curate head down and ploughing through research the MMCA and how it came other museums. This is not the case when its offering? and development across a raft of projects, their work is bought by a private collector. including the creation of a trilingual website. together. The MMCA Sri Lanka opened Several private collectors in Sri Lanka Artists have a more singular existence, In 2016, a group of artists, museum in December 2019 with its inaugural see the pitfalls this presents for artists and and for many of them, the pandemic Setting up a founding committee professionals, art historians, collectors, and exhibition “one hundred thousand small are keen to see how their collection can only underscored the isolation of what brought together a group of people art supporters had a conversation about tales”, which showcased 150 artworks by have a greater public benefit. Collectors it means to be an artist. That said, many that recognised that, above all, an art the need to establish a museum that was 45 Sri Lankan artists, including legendary of all levels have a huge role to play and took advantage of the downtime, and in museum needed to be a place of learning dedicated to modern and contemporary figures from the ‘43 Group. The exhibition contribute. Our larger vision relies on the all honesty, I have probably not heard and enjoyment where all communities art. Our efforts were originally driven by attracted 3,502 visitors, of which 970 were entire art ecosystem being involved, which or seen so many artists speaking about were not only welcome but were reflected the need to preserve and conserve modern tourists. Due to the high visitor numbers, is why we see this project as a long-term their work due to the explosion of online as active participants in its decisions art which, if we think about it today, is art we planned to keep the exhibition on for initiative. Delivering a world-class modern programming that the pandemic gave and activities nearing 100 years old, when you think back longer but then the pandemic hit and we and contemporary art museum might be 10 rise to. It has, however, been a welcome to works made by artists like Lionel Wendt had to close on 13 March. We briefly re- in the 1920s. years away, but the work starts now. relief to return to doing in-person studio The Museum of Modern and As our conversation continued, we also visits with my colleague Assistant Curator Contemporary Art Sri Lanka (MMCA Sri recognised that museums in Sri Lanka have Sandev Handy at the MMCA Sri Lanka. Lanka) is Sri Lanka’s first museum dedicated sought to serve the past at the exclusion exclusively to modern and contemporary art. of the present which leaves out vast areas ÄÄ What does 2021 hold in store Launched in December 2019, the MMCA of cultural production in terms of modern for the MMCA? What do you Sri Lanka has been quietly working towards architecture, design, art, craft, and film. have planned and what are establishing a public museum dedicated Our next step involved setting up you hoping for this year? to the display, research, collection, and a founding committee, which brought We are hoping to welcome back all conservation of modern and contemporary together a group of people that recognised the teachers and kids that visited our last art for the benefit and enjoyment of the that, above all, an art museum needed to be exhibition as soon as it becomes safe to general public, schools, and tourists. a place of learning and enjoyment where recommence field trips again. The plans of Most recently, MMCA Sri Lanka all communities were not only welcome our next exhibition will be released shortly collaborated with Sri Lanka Design but were reflected as active participants in Exhibits at the MMCA Sri Lanka and will include some exciting news.

that while we may not have enjoyed where once there was an attempt being colonised and it was a dark to memorialise and it was stricken Memory is the... time in our history, that does not down, was Thenuwara’s sentiment. to reflect upon what led to this change the fact that it is in fact a And there are other activities we can Contd. from page 1 eventuality; and if it was a violent part of our history, and we must do as well, he said, like exhibitions, act, then its root causes, how it protect the monuments which public apologies, parades, and ‘All actors must come was experienced, and what impact remind us of that. vigils, to remember. together’ it had on communities. Prof. Artists have the power to However, to maintain our right To further this conversation Thenuwara said that it allows for represent visually that which to memorialise, we must also step on the need for memorialisation in us to reflect upon the politics of keeps memory alive, said Prof. up as a community and demand a post-conflict society, we reached the violence; in that way we can Thenuwara, sharing that he has it. “Because governments, when engaged in several works over the they change, their policy changes, out to one of the panelists featured participate not just by critiquing, the formal state education system are also far removed from the years where he has attempted to and they forget everything and at the event, artist and activist Prof. but also conceptualising what type does not include in its curriculum its love of learning and therefore memorialise the human experience. they can erase anything. So the Chandraguptha Thenuwara, who of mobilisation is needed to avoid post-independent history. He shared less empathetic to human causes. In 1997, he launched his community must step up to hold is President of the Arts Council of similar experiences in the future. that not only are we unable to adapt Sharing with us an instance where ongoing series of camouflage works, them accountable.” Sri Lanka President, and a Senior Therefore, considering the our curricula to represent our recent he carried out a Human Rights entitled “Barrelism” at the Heritage Lecturer and Head of the Art History immense importance borne by these history, but we do not even take an Exhibition in 2018, a student who Gallery, Colombo. Conceived and In the name of beautification Department of the University of the structures, when the State or any effective route in studying the past believed that human rights are a executed across several mediums, As a closing remark, Prof. Visual & Performing Arts’ Faculty dominant actor using force disrupts histories that are already included in Western ideal had expressed that Barrelism’s projects continued until Thenuwara added that beautification of Visual Art. and undermines these purposes in the syllabus. they (the students) were being used 2015, where he paints barrels in has become a new challenge Reading from the glossary any form, what happens is these two He referred to the Battle of for the professor’s political agenda. camouflage as a representation of towards the preservation of cultural for the International Centre processes of healing and political Vijithapura between Dutugemunu The student was in fact a Major in Sri Lanka’s times in conflict, for monuments and memorials. for Transitional Justice, conversation experience a setback, and Elara, and how the story ends Gallery Studies, and had joined to which the camouflage barrel has Prof. Thenuwara was part of Prof. Thenuwara quoted: which is why this type of action with the victory of Dutugemunu; gain experience for his course. become a symbol. the Memorial of Neelan, which “Memorialisation is the process of must be condemned. the politics of what happened The Professor said that, in his In 2010, he curated “Visual took place annually from 1999- creating public monuments”, and Policing and manipulating the afterwards, and what he as the opinion, this type of reaction from Responses during the War” 2003, where they painted the road, therefore, while memory is the acts of memorialisation as a way victor did (he created a memorial students began in 2001, back when sponsored by the Centre for Policy but in 2013, according to him, it process, its result is the memorial. of controlling people’s expressions in memory of his fallen adversary), the Z-score was adjusted and many Alternatives and exhibited at was stopped for the sake of the It is an opportunity or an event exposes the State’s complicity in are not included in textbooks. “We state university students held the the Lionel Wendt Gallery, and beautification of Colombo. for those who were affected by one-sided memory, when in fact the do not teach our students our history belief that higher education was between 2015-2018, he continued The lack of interest by violence to remember the ones they putting up of and protection of such of memorialisation, of respect, their right; this entitlement made it to curate exhibitions annually with communities, and state actors lost, and it can happen at the level of monuments should be done with and the importance our history has so that they were neither grateful a focus on the themes of human taking advantage of this inaction, individuals and communities. While State endorsement. placed upon memory,” he said. nor empathetic to the needs of rights, displacement, conflict, and is now creating a forced narrative. there are many forms of memory “All actors must come together “We do not allow our students to others. He said that because of this adversity. “People are also responsible for and remembering, sometimes to decide what kind of monument or debate the action of both sides, nor Z-score issue, many students pursue For nearly 23 years, this; they are not protecting any of orally or even in writing, the visual memorialisation is necessary.” do we give them the opportunity to subjects they have no passion or Thenuwara has done annual our history. Forget about conflict, medium serves a greater purpose in think for themselves, to ponder the interest in, simply to gain a greater exhibitions on “commemorating on they are ready to demolish old its physical manifestation of what No effective route to motivations, and the prospect in turn score, resulting in indifferent commemorative things”. colonial houses, even change the constitutes a memory. study our history to decide for themselves the futility students attending courses purely to Taking down memorials is the paving of streets for the sake of The visual representation, the The Professor also referred to of conflict and violence.” pass exams and obtain a degree. erasure of memories. Whether we so-called development,” he said, monument or structure, can provide the nature of our education within Prof. Thenuwara also shared “I feel lonely in my battle like it or not – whether it is beautiful adding: “For the sake of artificial an opportunity for communities the island, addressing the fact that that, in his experience, students sometimes... and that is why more or ugly – it is their memory, it is beautification, they are happy to artists and actions must come up,” the signature of their experience; sacrifice anything – even their said the Professor, adding: “There and in doing so, we are engaging freedom.” were thousands who came up to in propagating living in this fake, Speaking about the state of beautify the walls (back in early beautified paradise that looks like Colombo right now, he pointed 2020 when the President encouraged nothing happened around us. out that all Colonial history the street art trend that was growing We are a country that suffered has been erased from the city. and there were thousands who a war, political coups, and ethnic Our surroundings are no longer participated), but who will come up disharmony, and it should be representative of our experience, to protect the rights of the people?” represented in the physical he said, and “that is why I twist manifestation of our memories. the word atmosphere, to ‘at-most- The power of art We must allow for the existence fear’”. He shared that right now, and its necessity of constructed sites like museums the Government has license to erase With regard to the erasure of related to conflict, found sites like anything, and to protect our rights, monuments, he also referred to graves, locations of mass killings; we must become a conscious society historical and cultural structures even the destruction of memorials – and we will still face an endless like colonial architecture, sharing can become a memorial – a place battle to cling to our memories.

the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, January 24, 2021 WILDLIFE THE ENIGMATIC

Relaxing after a hearty meal of termites SLOTH BEAR What’s the story with our endemic Sri Lankan bears?

BY NAVEED ROZAIS no enemies, “Jayawardene said. “The is no discernible pattern with bears. leopard is an enemy but it isn’t hunted. Research poses a bit of a challenge. I Bears are a curious subject. On There is no record of young bears and cubs don’t personally know of any instance of the one hand, they look adorable, having been killed, though I feel it must be casual observers where they have seen a but on the other hand, they are happening and we just don’t know about bear cub playing in the absence of their it. I’ve seen an unusual amount of interest Getting ready to run mother, for example. I’ve seen bear cubs capable of such destruction that from leopards in young bears. Predators with their mothers but these have always approaching a real live bear is like the leopard automatically react to been fairly brief sightings. Because it’s almost never wise. small mammals like that. Although, in the a difficult animal to observe, there is not In Sri Lanka, as well as around the case of sloth bears, they’re inseparable enough knowledge.” world, despite looking cuddly in photos, from their mothers for the first few bears are very cautiously approached in months of life, so danger from leopards Protecting the Sri Lankan sloth bear real life. The chances of surviving being is relatively low because they’re under When it comes to conservation, the mauled by a bear are slim, and even if their mother’s protection,” explained elusiveness of the sloth bear becomes There have been confrontations and you do survive, you could end up blinded, Jayawardene. a challenge. The actual population of deadly fights recorded between sloth sloth bears in Sri Lanka is not confirmed. bears, but mainly they avoid physical disfigured, or losing a limb or two. Despite The IUCN lists the main threats to Giving a threatening growl this, when looking at human-bear conflict, sloth bears as habitat loss and poaching. Through his research with BEAR, conflict. Leopards especially avoid it is most often the bears who end up dying. In a Sri Lankan context, poaching is Nanayakkara has identified 61 individual conflict because they need to hunt to Sri Lanka has its own endemic not a major threat to the sloth bear. bears within the Wilpattu National Park. survive and can’t afford to get injured subspecies of the sloth bear. The Sri Biodiversity Education and Research Nanayakkara stressed the importance of Naturalist and EFL Director Lankan sloth bear is small-sized and (BEAR) Founder and Principal Scientist safe spaces when it comes to conservation. Rukshan Jayawardene is fairly specialised, with long steel- Ranil P. Nanayakkara explained that “The main thing is to have protected like claws they use to break the termite habitat destruction and deforestation are areas like Wilpattu, Wasgamuwa, and so Globally, the IUCN notes there are mounds, their jaws don’t have incisors, and the biggest threats the Sri Lankan sloth on,” Nanayakkara explained. “But they likely less than 1,000 sloth bears in the their snouts enable them to suck ants of bear faces. “They are a species that prefers need to dry monsoon forests to survive wild, which rightly enough makes it an these termite mounds easily. monsoon thick forest. They’re termite because their diet consists of insects like animal that is vulnerable to becoming The International Union for eaters and ant-eaters, food that is highly Watching the day go by termites and ants. A lack of that will cause endangered and possibly even dying out. Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the global forested habitats. Habitat destruction is a an imbalance, and we don’t know what They are part of the vast natural resource authority on the status of the natural world major threat they face on a global scale.” defects that will bring about,” he said, that makes Sri Lanka a force to be and the measures needed to safeguard it, From a human perspective, adding that the research BEAR carries reckoned with on the world map. Do we deemed the sloth bear to be a vulnerable Nanayakkara explained that the threat of out looks to be able to inform sustainable really want to imagine a Sri Lanka without species in 2004. Despite this, research people is there to a certain extent when and measurable conservation management bears? suggests that sloth bear populations are still people go into the forest to collect bee plans on bears in the long term. declining. honey and firewood. “It’s not that common Jayawardene also highlighted the So what is happening with these in Sri Lanka where people get mauled by need for more research, stressing that mysterious creatures? Why are they sloth bears,” he said, adding: “It has a very conservation cannot take place blindly based on assumptions – we need to declining and what can we do about it? keen sense of smell but comparatively poor Relaxing after a hearty meal of termites hearing and eyesight, and they like to lie know why sloth bears are declining The Sri Lankan sloth bear up in caves or under trees. It’s possible to and map the reasons for this. “We The sloth bear is a South Asian bear unexpectedly come across them in deep finding sloth bear carcasses with gunshot can’t do anything serious to conserve that can easily be confused with other slumber, and in this case, they either retreat wounds or that have been hacked to death the sloth bear other than things we do bears despite its smaller size, especially or charge. Females with cubs are especially by either poachers or villagers who have to conserve animals within protected in India which has three species of bear – likely to charge.” unexpectedly come across them is not areas. I would urge the Department the Asiatic black bear, the sloth bear, and Jayawardene expanded on the impact uncommon. of Wildlife Conservation to try the sun bear. The sloth bear is also found that human interference can have on sloth and understand what ails sloth in Bangladesh (though they are possibly bears. “They’re very intolerant of human The sloth bear and awareness: bears and why they specifically are extinct there), Bhutan, India, Nepal, and disturbance in their forest habitats and declining when other animals don’t Sri Lanka. withdraw from areas where humans are Why so mysterious? seem to be affected.” Weighing in on awareness about sloth Though not endangered, the sloth entering.” They don’t adjust to humans bears, Nanayakkara explained that sloth bear is a vulnerable creature, which means the way other animals like leopards do. Looking to the future bears tend to fly under the radar because that care needs to be taken in conserving They change to become less frequently The Sri Lankan sloth bear is they’re not as charismatic a species populations. Omnivorous, sloth bears do seen in the wilderness where humans are endemic to Sri Lanka and while not as popular animals like elephants and not actively hunt, preferring to scavenge, present. The density of bears in a given as charismatic as the other animals leopards, especially when visiting national and sometimes taking over kills from area will reduce if you have human activity Sri Lanka is known for, is evidently parks. “They’re often overlooked. This leopards, especially female leopards. as opposed to where there is no human a unique animal with a lot of depth. is one reason my research team at BEAR Naturalist and Environmental activity.” Despite its elusive nature, it’s vital and I have been researching sloth bears for Foundation Ltd. (EFL) Director Rukshan Jayawardene also talked about the that we protect the sloth bear. over 11 years,” Nanayakkara said. “Even Jayawardene shared that leopards and impact of firewood collection, explaining in terms of publicity too, leopards and sloth bears have somewhat of a messy co- that it has a direct bearing on sloth bear elephants get a lot more attention.” existence. populations. “Rotting wood forests are Jayawardene shared the view that “There have been confrontations primarily the food of termites. If people are part of the aura of mystery that surrounds and deadly fights recorded between sloth going into the forest and bringing out dead They’re often overlooked. This is one sloth bears is because there haven’t been bears,” Jayawardene said, adding: “But wood that termites convert into food, then reason my research team at BEAR enough comprehensive studies. This is mainly they avoid physical conflict. termite activity will lessen and this will and I have been researching sloth in part because the sloth bear is such a Leopards especially avoid conflict because have a knock-down effect on the sloth bear bears for over 11 years. Even in shy animal who retreats from humans. they need to hunt to survive and can’t population.” terms of publicity too, leopards “Bears are very unpredictable, which afford to get injured.” Jayawardene and Nanayakkara both and elephants get a lot more makes them hard to study. Leopards, noted that poaching is not a major threat attention for instance, have predictable timing The threats faced by sloth bears to sloth bears, because there is no real and activities. If you leave them alone BEAR Founder and Principal From a natural standpoint, the Sri demand for their meat, fur, or teeth. and are not affecting their daily routine, Scientist Lankan sloth bear doesn’t have any major However, poachers do frequently kill a they’re actually very predictable. There Ranil P. Nanayakkara threats. “In Sri Lanka, the sloth bear has sloth bear on sight for fear of attack, and 4 the sunday morning brunch CAUSE/EVENTS Sunday, January 24, 2021

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE Culture plays an important role in the Lankan way. Everything we do and the way we behave, all stem from certain practices we have put in place, many of which are harmless Why do we feel and are at times positive. However, every once in a while, we come across some strange practices that we really can’t help but question. If you have been in any large family gathering where there are very the need to ask young children around, you may be able to recall how the adults in the gathering would interact with these children – often asking nonsensical questions to evoke some type of reaction. In the slew of nonsense you may notice questions like: “Your mom loves your sister more right?”, children “Will you give me that necklace?”, or “How about I take your sister They will feel unloved and away?”; often questions that would most often they repress those evoke a panicked or negative reaction from the child. emotions, and as a matter While for the moment the adult nonsense? of fact, the child will lose in question would get some their confidence and may satisfaction in evoking a noticeable even experience anxiety and reaction from the otherwise indifferent child and may think it stagefright. Such negative talk is harmless fun to rattle the young could even cause difficulties one, is it really as harmless as you later in life due to those think? repressed emotions Definitely damaging Counselling psychologist – child and To see if this kind of interaction is adolescent Dr. Kalharie Pitigala really as insignificant as we may think, extremely important to note that each we spoke with counselling psychologist – child is unique. Therefore, what is most child and adolescent Dr. Kalharie Pitigala, imperative is that you accept them for who for a more in-depth look at these types of they are. Try to inculcate good habits in interactions, which really occur far too often them by being an example to them, talk to be ignored. Dr. Pitigala confirmed that to them in a way that they feel loved and it is indeed problematic, possibly evoking accepted, and avoid negative speech. social anxiety in the child, and a reluctance “We must avoid using words that make to interact with society due to this very early them feel uncomfortable. Destructive onset of negative reaction with the outside criticism brings a lot of negativity, and world. discourages the child to a great extent. She shared that this kind of interaction Constructive criticism is encouraged is unfortunately quite prevalent in current with positive affirmations to make them society, stating that it is extremely harmful feel good about their strengths,” said Dr. and leads to disappointment in the child; it Pitigala, adding also that personally, she is often caused by a lack of awareness in feels that children would feel loved and parenting skills. accepted if the parents could use terms of Often, parents or other adults wish to endearment – words like “darling”, “baby”, have an instant connection with the child to or anything similar – to show them how get their attention; carrying out a scandalous loved they are. She also said that this loving act guarantees this attention they seek from and nurturing environment should not the child. Subconsciously they may not ever be limited up until a certain age; parents perceive this as being harmful to the child as should continue to create and maintain a it is purely a selfishly driven need. loving and comforting environment for Dr. Pitigala said that while it is a their children, and it is important for parents common cultural practice, it will cause a and adults who interact with children to be lot of psychological damage to the child. It aware of the language of love that the child will also cause confusion and intimidation understands. and even, at times, embarrassment, and this PHOTO DEVAIAH MALLANGADA KALAIAH ON UNSPLASH She said that all of this is carried out onslaught of negative emotions will leave a effectively only if you take the time to lasting impression. “They will feel unloved understand each child and their unique and most often they repress those emotions, particularly their communication skills, it attention to the use of language during set of sensibilities. For instance, while and as a matter of fact, the child will lose is great that in Sri Lanka they are able to the developmental stages in a child’s life, one child would feel loved when they are their confidence and may even experience grow up amongst a lot of extended family, as they learn by imitation and absorption appreciated, for another child it would be anxiety and stagefright. Such negative talk which gives them a lot of opportunities to Don’t leave them saying of their surroundings. Therefore, adults something very simple as being addressed could even cause difficulties later in life due interact with people and form connections must ideally interact in a positive and words like ‘can’t’ or ‘no’. Let by way of a term of endearment, and to those repressed emotions,” she said. and develop their communication skills. reaffirming way. She said the best way to However, when it comes to adults them attempt things on their learn is to allow children to engage in your some others would prefer actions like Talking down to children vs. talking interacting with children, it must be done own and create a scenario daily routine; however, they must not be spending some family time together in a with care. discouraging. They must engage in activities group. This all depends on what the child from their level where they can succeed on expects, and it is important for the parent Sharing her thoughts on the matter She said that when you consider young that evoke positive emotion; instances children, there are recommended ways to their own to build confidence where they are left feeling as though they to identify their language of interaction. with The Sunday Morning Brunch, Next time, whenever you feel the speech and language therapist Lakshika communicate with very young children. Speech and language therapist can accomplish something. “Don’t leave They refer to it as “motherese”, which is them saying words like ‘can’t’ or ‘no’. Let urge to somehow garner a reaction from Udugama, who is also part of the Sri Lanka Lakshika Udugama a child, think twice about your approach. Association for Child Development, said a simplified, affirmative language. This them attempt things on their own, and create is a language which the child around the a scenario where they can succeed on their Perhaps take a moment to formulate your that we can make a differentiation here interaction carefully, so that you will not with regard to talking down to children and age of three months or so would be able to not recommended to speak in this simplified own to build confidence,” said Udugama. reproduce. However, when it comes to an manner. Dr. Pitigala also added to these unknowingly leave a negative impact on an talking from their level. impressionable young mind. She said that for a child’s development, older child around the age of five years, it is She noted it is imperative to pay recommendations, sharing that it is

The story of a gem Far from being inanimate objects, every gem stone and piece of jewellery has a soul Sri Lanka’s gem... and a story to tell. They are beyond simple objectivism, and capture the human essence Contd. from page 1 with this story, they aim to portray the held deep within. Stories are at the core of craftsmanship in the gem and jewellery our cultural evolution. Citing examples like The mystery, magic, myths, and industry in the country. Red Riding Hood or Hansel and Gretel, legends, along with the history and Richa Goyal Sikri opened her segment, craftsmanship, were depicted at SLDF by History of the gem and stating that stories are lies we tell ourselves to an imminent panel of experts in the field, jewellery industry convey the truth. including Sotheby’s and Christie’s in The lustre and allure of our gems are “Back in 2013, I started visiting London and Geneva jewellery specialist widely documented as being the ultimate gemstone mines, and then began curating Helen Molesworth; Andrew Lucas, owner symbol of wealth, power, and royalty. Sri trips and taking people along with of an independent gem and jewellery Lankan sapphires in particular are renowned me,” said Sikri, sharing the story of company; National Gem and Jewellery for their unparalleled beauty and have been Richa Goyal Sikri Helen Molesworth how she got into gemstones. She then Authority (NGJA), Sri Lanka Gem and adorned by many renowned personalities documented these experiences through Jewellery Association (SLGJA), Federation throughout the ages. Sri Lanka’s gem Gem cutting and processing do to bring the beauty and brilliance of the storytelling on social media. As these of Chambers of Commerce and Industry offering has impacted the world so Every hard-found precious stone faces gemstone out.” stories resonated with different people in of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), and Facets Sri profoundly that they are even subjectively a human journey of transformation before He said it takes decades of experience the gem industry, she was then invited Lanka Board Member Armil Sammoon; popular in storytelling, such as in The Seven arriving at its destined state. Sammoon and and scientific expertise to perfect this act. to curate special exhibitions. She has gem education consultant Rui Galopim Voyages of Sinbad. his family have been in the industry for The key in the next step is to take out any spun many tales on gems and their lives, de Carvalho FGA DGA; and gem and “Sri Lanka is the single most important over five generations. He used his wealth of surface intrusions and get the best clarity adding that she is capable of performing jewellery connoisseur Richa Goyal Sikri. and ancient of all gem origins known to expertise to walk us through the process of and shape. Once that is complete, they turn this due to her authenticity and natural Speaking to The Sunday Morning us today. The country used to be known cutting, heating, and transforming a rough them into shapes like ovals, spheres, and love for gemstones. Speaking to The Brunch, Armil Sammoon said: “We came as a utopian land of natural beauty, and stone into a finished gemstone. “The most emeralds. Sunday Morning Brunch, Sammoon together with SLDF and the Academy of thankfully, nothing changed.” important factor in cutting a gemstone “It is hours of work. We have to make noted that they had a very successful Design (AOD), from the Gem and Jewellery Helen Molesworth shared with the is being still with the mineral itself, and calculated decisions, especially with the segment representation that drew in positive Association, to showcase the segment of audience that Sri Lanka has been trading feeling its character and energy.” larger stones,” he said, going on to describe feedback and comments from around the gems and jewellery, and to highlight the rich their gems as early as during the time of From there on, the rough gemstone the most interesting and enjoyable part world, commending them on their work and history Sri Lanka has in this industry.” Alexander the Great. Sri Lanka, particularly is felt, and once they identify the purpose as polishing the stone. “We decide if we the gem industry in Sri lanka. He said that Sri Lanka is the oldest the city of Ratnapura, was also a historic for cutting, they envision what the final want to use standard cuts or special cuts, “We hope to work with AOD and SLDF source in the world for coloured gemstones, location for gem mining and cutting as well outcome would look like. “Cutting is not depending on the raw material. We build in the future, and to keep our representation dating back thousands of years, and as trading precious stones. about the outside – it’s about what you can on it and apply the final polish to ensure the at their next programme,” he added. lustre and brilliance.” the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, January 24, 2021 HEALTH

BY DINITHI GUNASEKERA of “professionals”. This case proves true to counsellors in a much broader sense. “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that Mental health in Sri Lanka: is mentionable can be more Where are we at? manageable. When we can talk Velauthan, a victim of a traumatic about our feelings, they become experience, realised that he had not dealt less overwhelming, less upsetting, with a lot of underlying issues he had gone through growing up such as bullying, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers mistreatment from family and cool kids in Each and every one of us, at one school, having an alcoholic and abusive point or another, have used “the hospital father, and more. at Angoda” as the cult-classic parallel to “When I started talking about my lived the worst place one could ever go to, and experience on social media, I realised there silently judged a frequently emotional are so many people going through similar friend who was having “anxiety attacks” experiences that they never speak about,” whilst also thinking of reaching out to a he shared. professional to talk about the noise in our heads and hastily stopping ourselves. This is the situation of mental health in Sri Lanka. The stigma, of course, is an often discussed topic. For mental health “Sri Lankans are used to saying, professionals, we are not only ‘aiyo, it will be okay, just forget about it’,” expressed social media personality, working but also training in TEDx Speaker, and mental health advocate How real time. Our trial runs are Sharan Velauthan, speaking to The Sunday on live test experiments in the Morning Brunch. form of the first few clients In addition to the stigmatisation of mental health problems, another that come to us contributor is how unequipped we are as a Counsellor and SRILNAC Past President country to deal with such issues. ‘professional’ Joseph N. Thilakaratne Professional mental health support: Counselling in focus Clinical psychologist and Open Many who have been to the University of Sri Lanka Department are Sri Lanka’s school counsellor have told of Psychology and Counselling senior lecturer Ransirini De Silva shared that due me that they would never go to the lack of awareness, we use terms there again. A couple of my such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and friends who had problems at counsellors very interchangeably. home told me that ever since According to her expertise, she explained mental health that a psychiatrist is a trained medical the visit to the counsellor, doctor that looks into the medical aspect of the entire staff room had mental health. somehow been made aware A psychologist is someone who has followed a degree in psychology and of their situation specialised in a particular field related to professionals? Student, who wished to remain mental health to deliver psychological anonymous interventions. For example, a clinical psychologist would treat people with mental health disorders in a hospital The experts cumulatively agreed that setting, while an educational psychologist there needs to be more awareness within would work with students in a school the public domain on the importance of setting to tackle learning-related issues. mental health and the equal significance Qualified psychologists may tackle of psychological intervention, once more complex mental health problems conducted responsibly. whereas counsellors tackle day-to-day “Therapy changed my life. conflicts of the mind of clients through Therapists are there to help you with professional, yet basic training. However, your thoughts and mine helped me individual differences of experience and beyond explanation. At my first session, training of the counsellor will colour the I cried the whole time. The next few diversity of the interventions they are sessions were for the therapist to get able to deliver. She further added that PHOTO YOUSSEF NADDAM ON UNSPLASH to know me better. From there, it counselling or therapy is but one practical was constantly working on myself. A small arm of all that is encompassed yet practising. from bad to worse in the case of improper She called for schools to ensure that therapist will help and advise you, but within the vast field of the science of Mohamed elaborated that the basics counselling methods. those put in charge of the mental health you have to put the work in as well. “psychology”. of counselling involves privacy, empathy, of students receive correct and adequate I learnt a lot more about myself, my General counselling comprises understanding, active listening, non- Counselling in schools training to ensure the ability to deliver triggers, and how to love myself better,” psychological services rendered through judgement, and above all, confidentiality. The horror stories surrounding school ethical mental health interventions. Velauthan recollected from his personal contact between the counsellor and the “You have to respect confidentiality at counsellors is not new news. The need experiences. client, related to individuals, children and all times excluding special cases which for accountability and responsibility Mohamed said that although a lot families, couples, marriage, or any other involve potential harm to the client, from schools in recruiting counsellors is of younger people advocate for mental mental health-related concerns. particularly with minors,” she stated firmly. another point of interest, learnt The Sunday health on social media platforms, a look “If you are counselling a minor, you Morning Brunch in correspondence with at the demographics reveal that it is Professionalism in counselling: can talk to the parents. That needs to be students, who requested anonymity. largely Colombo-centric and an issue done keeping the client at utmost priority; A prefect at a leading government discussed among the metropolitan crowd A neglected necessity school in Colombo revealed that whenever Counsellor and Shanthi Maargam in this case, keeping the client informed of Sri Lanka. he has attempted to assist a junior in Assistant Centre Manager Ardlay of every step, explaining what you would “If your friend tells you that he seeking advice from the school counsellor, Mohamed explained that the minimum be revealing and why you need to do so. or she has a severe stomach ache, you the counsellor was almost always requirement for counselling practitioners Nevertheless, a counsellor, regardless of advise him to seek professional help unavailable in his seat. in Sri Lanka is a higher national diploma. the client’s age, should have utmost respect immediately. Just as you take care of Another prefect from a reputed private In order to achive this, a national diploma and regard towards them. It’s all about your physical wellbeing, you need to school in Colombo shared the following in counselling or psychology should be creating a safe space for the client to open know that total wellbeing comes from sentiments: followed, which includes a minimum two up without being criticised or judged. a good balance between stable physical “Many who have been to the school years of study. Mohamed further commented saying that and mental wellbeing.” counsellor have told me that they would According to her, the minimum for someone to come into therapy, sizable Velauthan added that there are never go there again. A couple of my requirement is based on teaching the skills courage is taken in a society such as that of different paths to seeking help such as friends who had problems at home told me needed to practice. In addition to the higher Sri Lanka that stigmatises it. speaking to trusted friends and family, that ever since the visit to the counsellor, national diploma, you are required to self-help books, journaling, etc. the entire staff room had somehow been follow through with an internship which is made aware of their situation. It did not A therapist will help and advise The way forward very similar to practicing, where you have help in any way because of the sudden “Therapy and counselling is not the to counsel a number of clients with the you, but you have to put the work unusual and awkward treatment by the only path, but it certainly helps. There discretion of a supervisor. in as well. I learnt a lot more teachers. They would be randomly stopped are plenty of free resources available that Counsellor and Sri Lanka National at corridors and asked about personal about myself, my triggers, and we have listed on Samana as well,” said Association of Counsellors (SRILNAC) family problems in front of others. Going how to love myself better Velauthan. Past President Joseph N. Thilakaratne to the counsellor and the backlash that Social media personality, TEDx Speaker, Samana (https://www.samana.lk/ stressed that the development of a follows is sometimes worse than bottling support-list) is a newly introduced up- counsellor comes from experience. and mental health advocate up your problems,” she shared. and-coming platform that strives to make “The more you practice, the more you Sharan Velauthan “The procedure of visiting the mental health more accessible to all Sri learn. Regardless of the qualifications, the counsellor at our school is strenuous Lankans, an initiative Velauthan himself is sizable drawback is in gaining experience. enough. You have to take permission from a part of. For doctors, they have specified artificial The absence of a governing body the principal and then get the signature of “Reaching out for help does not make anatomies or natural body specimens During our exchange with these your class teacher, in most cases, in front you less; it should be something to be that are assigned to conduct anatomy professionals, we uncovered that the of the staff room. It’s not confidential at all celebrated because you know that life is a investigation,” he explained. “For mental absence of a governing body to regulate and it would be followed bit heavy right now and you need help. Our health professionals, we are not only the professionals of the said with a million intrusive work with Samana and other organisations working but also training in real time. Our field allows individuals with questions from teachers,” that focus on helping our communities trial runs are on live test experiments in inadequate knowledge and shared another student. will help normalise the conversation the form of the first few clients that come experience to practise freely. Therefore, it is even more,” concluded Velauthan, to us.” You have to respect confidentiality De Silva, as a clinical essential that you look further stressing the importance of more Mohamed added that the skills needed at all times excluding special cases psychologist herself, shared into the qualification of mainstream media advocacy on mental for counselling cannot be taught in a which involve potential harm to that although clinical that individual to fulfil the health and efforts made to amplify voices matter of months. Thilakaratne echoed her psychologists are registered the client, particularly requirement, just as is done of mental health advocates, reminding sentiments by adding that at least 50 clients at the Sri Lanka Medical with minors in hiring academic staff or them that they are not professionals, but be have to be handled initially, for one to gain Council (SLMC), the any other employees, and a source of reliability and direction to the sizable knowledge on how exactly to tackle Counsellor and Shanthi Maargam Assistant “Sri Lanka Psychological the school management right therapists. counselling. Centre Manager Ardlay Mohamed Association” has not yet have to make efforts to been recognised through an As much-needed legal systems are take it earnestly enough. Clinical psychologist yet to be put in place to primarily hold The dangers of a ‘bad counsellor’ Ransirini De Silva act in Parliament as a legal A “bad counsellor” in most cases is a “I greatly appreciate people who Clinical psychologist body to regulate registration professionals accountable, supporting para-qualified individual, according to the care about themselves enough to have the Ransirini De Silva shared that according to and practitioning of all others who are organisations such as Samana, Shanthi experts we spoke to. Mohamed revealed courage to seek professional help,” she her knowledge, certain schools within the practising in the field of psychology, Maargam, and Sumithrayo that focus on that she knows for a fact that there are said. national school system assign an already although it is recognised as a professional the emotional wellbeing of youths and many who have barely completed a couple Depending on the severity of a certain existing teacher as the school counsellor, body. Due to this, there is ambiguity adolescents are a step we as a society may of months of their diploma courses, but are issue, the situation of a client can turn who is not a mental health professional. regarding the qualifications and experience take to make it safer for them to seek help. 6 the sunday morning brunch HEALTH Sunday, January 24, 2021 Embryo testing and reproductive genetics cell populations with different genotypes are present within the same embryo (mosaicism). Prenatal diagnosis Prenatal diagnosis is carried out either invasively or non-invasively. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) utilises cell-free foetal DNA in maternal blood to detect chromosomal aneuploidies. Cell-free DNA originates from the placenta, but it represents the entire foetal genome. NIPT can be offered as early as 10 weeks of gestation and is relatively safer than invasive testing. This test has very high sensitivity and specificity in aneuploidy detection. NIPT is a pregnancy-specific test since foetal cell-free DNA Pertussis most is rapidly cleared from the maternal circulation within hours of delivery. However, NIPT is not a diagnostic test contagious during but a screening test, and it provides only a risk assessment. Hence, pre-test counselling is essential and positive results require further early stages of illness detailed genetic counselling by a specialist. ÄÄ Dear Mayo Clinic, is feeling exhausted after Similarly, positive test results must be confirmed why is my doctor coughing. The hacking cough by invasive testing to eliminate false positives, recommending during a pertussis infection can emphasised Dr. Padeniya. that I get the Tdap be so severe in older adults that it can lead to a fractured rib. BYDR. DINESHANI HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA relevant genetic testing (either cytogenetics or vaccine now to molecular genetic testing). Depending on the Pertussis also can cause prevent whooping other complications in adults, There’s a growing demand for assisted test result, your doctor will finalise the diagnosis cough, even though and offer reproductive options. Reproductive including trouble sleeping, reproductive technologies like “in I am in my late 70s? struggling to breathe due to vitro fertilisation” (IVF) globally. As options are multiple. Of the options available, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and Doesn’t whooping the cough, weight loss, leaking a result of technical advancements, prenatal diagnosis (invasive/non-invasive) are cough usually affect urine, fainting spells, an preimplantation screening and prenatal currently the most commonly recommended young children? abdominal hernia, and broken genetic testing are now beginning to technologies. While it’s true that vessels in the skin or eyes. In play a leading role. Its major contribution babies are most at risk of some cases, pertussis may lead is to prevent and predict if a certain Preimplantation genetic testing pertussis infection and serious to pneumonia, an ear infection, genetic disorder can be transmitted to This is a group of genetic assays used to complications, older adults or hospitalisation. your baby, and to decrease its burden evaluate embryos before their transfer to the also can be vulnerable to Keep in mind that right from the planning of reproduction womb (uterus). This test is always coupled with the illness, even after being pertussis may look different in vaccinated. Your immunity older adults. Adults who have to the birth of the baby. the IVF technique. This technology is practised Fig. 2: Cell-free foetal DNA in maternal blood in few IVF laboratories in Sri Lanka. Once the to pertussis, often called some immunity to pertussis In this light, we spoke to University of embryo is being made in an in-vitro media, an “whooping cough”, fades after from being vaccinated or from Kelaniya Department of Anatomy senior lecturer experienced embryologist would do an embryo Invasive prenatal diagnosis just five to 10 years of getting having the illness in the past Invasive prenatal diagnosis is performed and geneticist Dr. Padmapani Padeniya. biopsy at a specific stage in the development of the vaccination. And even if may experience milder signs either on a foetal blood sample or amniotic fluid the embryo called the cleavage stage or blastocyst you’ve had pertussis in the and symptoms. They also sample (fluid in the water bag) of the developing Reproductive genetics stage. The biopsy sample is then sent to the past, you still can get pertussis may not have a severe cough foetus. Common indications where invasive This is a new branch in medical genetics genetic laboratory for genetic assays. infection again in the future. or hear a “whoo” sound after that focuses on genetic risks or conditions that prenatal testing is recommended are as follows: Pertussis is caused by the coughing. can be passed from parent to child through their yy Increased risk for foetal chromosome bacterium Bordetella pertussis, See your healthcare genes during pregnancy. Reproductive genetics abnormalities (advanced maternal age: 35 which spreads easily between provider if you have even a has become an important discipline in today’s years old or more) people through the air. You mild cough for longer than obstetrics and gynaecology practices. The perfect two weeks or if you develop yy High risk during first-trimester ultrasound can get pertussis if an infected timing of the application of genetic knowledge in a cough after you’ve been screening and blood screening person coughs or sneezes, reproductive medicine is crucial. If applied at the sending bacteria-containing exposed to someone who has correct time, early prevention and prediction of a yy Structural foetal anomalies detected by second- droplets into the air. been diagnosed with pertussis. genetic disorder can be achieved. trimester ultrasound scan Another reason pertussis The test for pertussis involves a Our genes contain instructions for our traits, swab of the back of your nose yy Previous child with a chromosomal spreads easily is because it’s including aspects of health and disease. Each of us and testing the mucus for the abnormality most contagious during the has mutations and some of them do not affect our early stages of the illness bacterium that causes pertussis. health, and we don’t even know we have them. yy Parental chromosome rearrangements before severe coughing begins Because it can take days for Our children can randomly inherit these mutations Fig. 1: PGT technology in a nutshell the test results, your healthcare yy Increased risk for a detectable Mendelian and before those infected with from us in the genes we pass down, which may or provider may recommend Embryos can be tested for the presence of disorder (earlier birth of an affected child or pertussis know they have it. may not cause our child to have health problems. starting an antibiotic right an abnormal number of chromosomes in cells family member, positive screening outcome) Pertussis is contagious for up Hence, preconceptional (before conception), away if you have signs and (aneuploidy). For instance, from this method, the to three weeks after symptoms preimplantation (before implantation of an y symptoms of pertussis. mother has the choice to select a good embryo y Abnormal amniotic fluid level begin. One person infected embryo in IVF), and periconceptional (early foetal When administered early without any chromosomal abnormalities like y with pertussis can transmit the life) phases are important in reproductive genetics y Parental consanguinity in families with during infection, an antibiotic Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau illness to many other people. and genetic testing. recessive diseases can shorten the time that you syndrome, etc. This assay is called PGT-A Older adults are also at risk With the advancement of genetic testing feel symptoms of pertussis and (aneuploidy), PGT-SR stands for PGT for Invasive prenatal testing is comprehensive, of complications of pertussis platforms that can test from chromosomal levels reduce the severity of your structural chromosomal abnormalities. This assay and the type of procedure depends on which because of changes that happen such as cytogenetic testing to gene level such cough. Antibiotic treatment is beneficial for parents who are bearing balanced trimester the pregnant mother is at. Chorionic to their immune system as they as next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based is most effective when taken chromosomal rearrangements. villus sampling is conducted during the first get older. Add to that the fact platforms, new genetic testing methods are now within the first three weeks For patients who are carriers trimester (within the first 12 that cases of pertussis in the US available in the form of non-invasive prenatal of infection, and the sooner of single-gene disorders like beta- weeks of gestation) while have been on the rise for several testing (NIPT) and preimplantation genetic testing the antibiotic is started, the thalassemia, haemophilia, and amniocentesis, foetal blood years. The increase in the (PGT). These advances have increased the drive more effective it is. After five Duchenne muscular dystrophy sampling, and foetal tissue number of people with active and expectation of the general public towards days of taking antibiotics, (DMD), the PGT-M (monogenic biopsy are performed during the pertussis infection raises the risk this reproductive genetics specialty, stated Dr. you’ll typically no longer be disorders) assay is useful. This second trimester (12-24 weeks that you subsequently can be Padeniya. contagious. assay can determine any single- of gestation). Chromosomal exposed to the pertussis bacteria. The best way to protect gene disorder in the embryo aneuploidies and all the single- The pertussis vaccination When is reproductive genetic yourself from a pertussis before being transferred. In the gene disorders can be detected is given in combination infection is to keep it from testing recommended? current context where ~3% of Sri through invasive prenatal with tetanus and diphtheria developing in the first place There are numerous reproductive genetic Lankan populations are beta- testing. Both cytogenetic and vaccines. It’s called tetanus by getting the Tdap vaccine. disorders. The following are reproductive thalassemia carriers, the PGT-M molecular genetic testing are diphtheria and acellular The Centers for Disease disorders requiring expert management from a assay is very suitable for couples equally important in prenatal pertussis booster and is Control and Prevention (CDC) reproductive geneticist: with thalassemia carrier status and diagnostics. abbreviated as “Tdap”. Even if Dr. Padmapani Padeniya recommends that unvaccinated yy Unexplained repeated pregnancy loss/recurrent this technology can prevent new Based on the requirement of you’ve had the vaccine before, adults receive a single shot of miscarriages thalassemia births in the country. the clinician/geneticist, the most you may need it again to the vaccine. Furthermore, if a couple is looking for a foetus appropriate genetic test is selected. However, increase the protection that you yy Previous foetus/child with a genetic disorder or Most people who receive with HLA compatibility for transplant purposes, owing to the invasive nature of these procedures, had from an earlier dose. a chromosomal disorder or malformations the Tdap vaccine don’t PGT-HLA is an ideal option. procedure-related miscarriages are sometimes After a week or two, a experience a reaction. If you yy Unexplained infertility If a couple plans to undergo IVF and if the unavoidable. Hence, the benefit of testing should pertussis infection usually do, the most common reaction IVF can be coupled with PGT technology, it outweigh the risk to the mother and foetus. leads to a cough. Signs and yy Recurrent failure of assisted reproduction/IVF among people 65 and older can reduce the chance of having a child with In conclusion, Dr. Padeniya stated that symptoms that point to a is pain and swelling at the yy Advanced parental age aneuploidies including Down syndrome. As these tests should be performed under informed pertussis infection include injection site. You could get per statistics, 30% of the Sri Lankan maternal patient choice and should be personalised to coughing that lasts longer than yy Premature ovarian failure pertussis even after getting population is above 35 years. These mothers each patient’s purpose and clinical situation. two weeks and gets worse over vaccinated, but you’re less yy An unexplained absence of menstruation have a higher chance of conceiving a baby with These procedures should be preceded by time; long coughing fits that likely to have a serious (primary amenorrhea) aneuploidy syndrome. Hence, this technology pre-test counselling and followed by post-test may lead to vomiting or near- infection and your symptoms can help such couples have a normal baby. counselling through shared decision-making vomiting; and coughing attacks yy Absence of sperm or very low sperm counts in won’t last as long. Furthermore, this test can reduce the number of with the geneticist/clinician. followed by a sudden, deep the semen (azoospermia/oligospermia) (Adapted from Mayo pregnancy losses/miscarriages. inhalation, making a “whoop” Clinic Health Letter) yy Abnormal maternal serum screening test More than that, in Sri Lanka, we do not have sound as you catch your breath About the writer John Wilson, M.D., the legal provision to terminate pregnancies, after coughing. yy Abnormal obstetric ultrasound evaluation The writer, Dr. Dineshani Infectious Diseases, Mayo particularly with genetic abnormalities. Therefore, Not every cough means Hettiarachchi Sirisena, is Clinic, Rochester, Minn. yy Parent/family member with a genetic disorder patients with a family history of genetic disorders you have pertussis. And not a family physician with a © 2021 MAYO have limited chances of having a normal baby every case of pertussis has a yy Consanguineous couples special interest in rare genetic FOUNDATION FOR in Sri Lanka. However, if a couple can do cough or the telltale “whoop” diseases and regenerative MEDICAL EDUCATION yy Familial reproductive cancer preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), these sound after a cough. Pertussis medicine currently AND RESEARCH. genetic disorders can be eliminated at the level of starts with cold-like signs and working as a lecturer at the DISTRIBUTED BY embryo transfer. Hence, the necessity to terminate symptoms that could include a What to expect Department of Anatomy, TRIBUNE CONTENT a pregnancy will not arise. However, this type of runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, Like any medical discipline, your doctor Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, AGENCY, LLC. ALL test is not without limitations. False-positive and a sore throat, or a mild fever. will take a detailed history and do a clinical Sri Lanka. Another sign of pertussis RIGHTS RESERVED. examination. Thereafter, you will be offered false-negative results can occur if two or more the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, January 24, 2021 GAMES/TOONS

SOLUTION FOR 10 JANUARY 16 Satellite imaging product 71 Attorney’s letters 17 Wrath 72 “Thrown” criticism CROSSWORD CLUES Crossword 18 “Tubular!” 73 Not rented Across 63 Earth 117 Yolk’s counterpart 20 Pay for 74 Chocolatier’s array 1 Frozen snack 64 Tokyo, long ago 120 Sci-fi creatures who 24 NBA part: Abbr. 75 Angel dust, initially 7 Ford failure 65 Clickable image arranged each set of 29 “Nineteen Eighty-Four” 77 New England nickname 12 Promising Hold ‘em 67 Jacqueline Kennedy circled letters? foe of Winston and Julia 79 Bolt on the track holding Onassis, __ Bouvier 123 Litter, say 32 Seashore souvenir 80 Hard pencils to sharpen 19 Painting, e.g. 68 Dennis, e.g. 124 Spud 33 Bit of a “Beavis and 81 __ firma 21 Slip 70 Like vision dimmed 125 Show disdain for Butt-Head” chuckle 82 Far from charming 22 ‘30s-’40s period from fatigue 126 Over the moon, so to speak 35 Grauman of Chinese 84 White and black pawns, e.g. 23 Quadrennial victory 72 Total 127 Shorthand pro Theatre fame 85 Lyrical determinant 75 The Arno runs through it 128 Emmy-winning “Lou 37 Proceeds smoothly 86 Second chances 25 Tinkered with like a tailor 76 Kitchenware brand Grant” actress Linda 38 Many an op-ed piece 88 Trawler’s tool 26 Prepares to fire 78 Man, for example 39 Ragú rival 93 Court 27 Mario Bros. console 79 “Hmm ... doubt it” Down 40 “The Mod Squad” role 95 Inc. cousin 28 Mexican month 80 Baffled 1 “What concerns me is ... “ 41 Co. bigwig 96 Grouchy moods 30 Indian wrap 83 Virgil’s optimistic sentiment 2 Eyelashes 42 Ball of yarn, perhaps 99 Crab in space 31 Biopic about Charles 87 One placed near a gutter 3 Hamilton, to Burr 43 Yellowstone sight 100 Progresses with ease 32 Hidden stockpile 89 Surrendered 4 Muscle Beach display 44 Burning 101 “And if I don’t?” 34 Up for __ 90 Made one’s case 5 Feedbag morsel 45 “Chicago” actress Zellweger 102 Last year’s frosh 36 Champs-Élysées feature 91 Surfer’s destination? 6 “Now!” 50 Votes for 103 Start of a view 39 Solar panel components 92 Small salamander 7 Building extension 51 Without a key 107 Bars on necks 43 Dance studio fixture 94 Troubles 8 Humor columnist Barry 53 Website with film profiles 108 Saintly glows 46 Smart 97 Ways to lose 9 Boston cream pie 54 “The Four Seasons” 109 Short-tempered 47 Light bulb generator? 98 Wrap up component solo instrument 111 Outback runners 48 Calendar pgs. 104 Sushi go-with 10 Non-acidic vitamin brand 56 What pewter is, mostly 112 French crown? 49 Casual “Same here” 105 Scents 11 Eye lustfully 58 Narrow inlet 114 Welcoming sign 52 Ingenuous 106 Coagulates 12 Pan Am rival 59 Breakfast area 116 Key used in combinations 55 Capital NE of Buffalo 107 Lucrative, contractually 13 Rowling’s Hedwig and 60 Broadband predecessor 117 Instagram, e.g. 57 Source of narrowly 110 Help badly? Lewis’ Glimfeather 66 Angler’s basket 118 Online outburst focused thinking 113 Dealt with 14 Hummus go-with 68 Providing amplification 119 Homer’s TV neighbor 61 Slightly drunk 115 Alberta speed meas. 15 He played James in the for, as a speaker 121 Ranch extension? Entries should be written clearly and addressed to: The Features Editor, The Sunday Morning, 62 Nabisco offering 116 Mötley __ four films before Daniel 69 Crossed (out) 122 The Red Baron, to Snoopy No. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 to reach us on or before 12 noon on 3 February, 2021. Write “The Sunday Morning Brunch”, on the top left hand corner of the envelope. Name: ...... Address: ...... Contact No: ...... Bank account details: ...... (Account number, bank name, branch name, and name as per bank account)

CROSSWORD WINNERS OF 10 JANUARY

First prize (Rs. 5,000) Consolation prize winners Dr. (Mrs) Dilini W Fambeck, 1. J.A.B.L. Ranasinghe, Ganemulla Colombo 05 2. P.B. Molligoda, Kohuwala Ratnapura Second prize (Rs. 3,000) 3. A.C. Risna, Kuruwita, 4. S.M. Kannangara, Pitakotte Munisamy Ragunathan, 5. Slimana Banda, Mulgampola Mathugama

This week’s winners will be announced on 7 February

Sudoku LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku. org.uk. Distributed by Tribune Content

Agency. All (Answers next week) rights reserved. (Last week’s) 8 the sunday morning brunch CAUSE/EVENTS Sunday, January 24, 2021 ‘EMOTIONAL HEALTH AND SAFE SPACES ARE VERY IMPORTANT’ BY NAVEED ROZAIS Cinnamon As we as a society continue to progress, the importance of our youths and their position to create a future of peace and Grand Colombo understanding becomes more and more apparent. We all have trauma, even our children and the youths. To unlock our true launches Plates potential and become our best selves, we Cinnamon Grand need to be able to move past this trauma Colombo opened the doors and heal. This is a lot easier said than done. to its newest restaurant Even for the more privileged among us. Plates on 15 January with Shanthi Maargam is an NGO (non- an intimate gathering. Plates governmental organisation) that understands this is a 24-hour gourmet dining need for emotional healing. Established in 2016, restaurant with a collective Shanthi Maargam works with children and youths of tastes and flavours from from disadvantaged areas in Colombo to provide around the world. a safe space where these young people can be Open to the public supported and encouraged to heal and grow. from 16 January, Plates is The Sunday Morning Brunch sat down with all about experiences – the gender consultant and Shanthi Maargam Founder experience of friends and and Executive Director Kamani Jinadasa, for a closer family dining together, look at Shanthi Maargam and what they do. the experience of enjoying multi-country, multi-cuisine ÄÄ What is the Shanthi Maargam story? dishes at any time of day, adheres to the stringent How did it come to be? Volunteers conducting sessions with children from the community the experience of having Covid-19 guidelines, as Globally, research shows that there is a close a gastronomic tour of directed by the Government association between boys’ childhood exposure to global cuisine in a single and the Ministry of Health violence and the perpetration of intimate partner venue, and the experience protocols. Plates has a total violence by men in adulthood. I was project of enjoying the tropics in seating capacity of 163, director and a research team member of a study al fresco dining or seated with the deck area seating conducted by CARE International in 2013 which within the contemporary 41, and all guests visiting highlighted this link, and this understanding led me sleek interiors in air- the restaurant are subject to start the organisation “Shanthi Maargam”. conditioned comfort. to strict health and safety Shanthi Maargam works with adolescents in Plates comes to life protocols. predominantly low-income poverty settings in with a modern palette Cinnamon Grand Colombo with the aim of preventing violence in of white, blue, and Colombo General Manager these communities. Our core mission is to create copper, emphasised with Kamal Munasinghe, safe spaces and opportunities to enhance the contemporary furniture commenting on the new emotional wellbeing of adolescents. Through the and fittings to create an restaurant, said: “Plates provision of psychosocial services to strengthen Youths engaging in a programme to raise awareness on Shanthi Maargam Founder and Executive Director Kamani aura of cool, contemporary offers a place for guests emotion management, Shanthi Maargam mainly Suicide Prevention Day 2020 Jinadasa conducting a kids’ session elegance. Designed to to come together and works to address emotional harm on children and resilience, enhance social, emotional, cognitive, overlook the pool in all experience a multitude as a result of early exposure to violence, and and behavioural skills, develop self-esteem, and its tropical splendour, of international cuisine, to influence positive gender norms, attitudes, foster good social behaviours and norms. Plates includes a deck 24 hours of the day. The and behaviours from a young age to prevent the The pilot projects in Sri Lanka showed notable and outdoor bar complete ambiance and décor have perpetration of violence at later stages in life. changes in youths’ attitudes and behaviours resulting with a retractable awning also been done to support in more empathetic and less violent approaches in that makes this al fresco togetherness, and an Ä Ä What are the services Shanthi handling challenging situations as well as reductions environment enjoyable environment where food Maargam offers? in negative attitudes towards women and girls regardless of the weather. can be enjoyed on many We want to help children and youths heal from The design of the buffet levels, in different types the trauma they may have experienced or witnessed ÄÄ What is the biggest issue facing also keeps Covid-19 in of ‘plates’. The fresh new and learn how to manage their emotions and find a mind, with the food not young people today? And how can look as well as the unique deeper level of peace, which we believe can break we as a society help? being directly accessible by offerings in both food and the cycle of violence in families and communities. As a country, we don’t talk enough about the guests. The friendly service beverage, which have been At Shanthi Maargam, we use a two-pronged fact that we have just dealt with a three-decade by the Plates staff more than developed with intricate approach to try to break the cycle of violence in long civil war. We’ve seen so much racism and makes up for not being able detail, are aimed at giving Schoolchildren participating in programmes conducted families and communities. with UNICEF violence, as a country we’re literally hurting, to serve yourself. guests the finest culinary The first approach is by creating a space and we just don’t talk about it. We shouldn’t be Design aside, experiences.” constant cycle of poverty, hardship, and to have open conversations around surprised with the levels of violence we see today. Cinnamon Grand Colombo often violence. They often face neglect gender, relationships, sexual health, If we want a peaceful, joyful country, then we need stays ever mindful of the PHOTOS KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM, in school or drop out of school early. CINNAMON GRAND COLOMBO substance abuse, bullying, violence people, especially youths and children, to heal from times, and Plates strictly As a result, these children and and abuse, and other stresses their experiences. We need to focus on creating a youths often do not have people among children and youths. healthy generation of kids who become adults. around them who see them for their The second is by healing the Emotional health and safe spaces are very potential and believe in who they emotional traumas of vulnerable important, and this is what Shanthi Maargam drives. are. Also, if they display difficult children and youths by offering On a personal level, my childhood was tough. My behaviours and attitudes, they can be free counselling, lessons, and mother suffered from bipolar depression and post- shunned by their families instead of emotional management tools to natal depression and I lost my father as a child. But being supported to help them overcome them through our “Art of Living” I had friends who supported me. Even then, I wish their issues. youth centre in Colombo. there had been a place like Shanthi Maargam to help Gender consultant and Shanthi Shanthi Maargam is a place We do this through individual me heal better. Emotional wounds are wounds we Maargam Founder and Executive where these children can come counselling, either through Director Kamani Jinadasa carry with us throughout our lives. Why not heal in and receive respect, care, and therapy sessions or through our children now so that they can deal with them and encouragement to help them heal from the challenges 14-hour hotline. Our youth centre is an inclusive have the best chance of growing up strong? they face. In addition to having discussions about space that welcomes children and youths from As a society, we need to address children’s emotional wellbeing, bullying, child abuse, parental all socioeconomic, ethnic, religious backgrounds, mental health and understand that children can pressure, substance abuse, gender, relationships, etc., genders, and sexual orientations. have issues and undergo stress. We tend not to we also try to provide them with tools for emotion Since we started in 2016, Shanthi Maargam has recognise this as adults and parents because we management such as yoga, meditation, karate, music helped hundreds of children and youths overcome often don’t recognise our own issues. There are lessons, or lessons in topics they are challenged feelings of anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide no courses for being a parent. You’re landed with with at school such as maths and languages with the ideation, and other life stressors and pressures they this precious child and you raise them the best way support of our volunteers. experience during adolescence. you can. But when you have your own unresolved We also have two structured programmes trauma, this can be projected, and sometimes, as an ÄÄ Tell us about how Shanthi Maargam adapted to the Sri Lankan context which were adult who is suffering yourself, you can’t see your funded by UNICEF (United Nations Children’s works directly with communities. child suffering. Fund) Sri Lanka to reduce gender-based violence When working with children and youths in our Understanding that mental health is an issue and violence against children which we use when surrounding communities, we focus on creating for us and our children is key to nurturing a working with these children. a safe and confidential space for them to come to well-adjusted younger generation. We need to be One programme is the “Parivarthan” for support, to listen, solve issues, and encourage non-judgemental and let go of our deeply ingrained programme, which works with male athletes to them to move forward in their lives. The children views. We also need to break the cycle of violence, change harmful attitudes towards women and we work with are from predominantly poor and an easy way to prevent this is through working girls using cricket as an entry point. The second communities, where they are regularly exposed with boys who can grow up to be men who actively programme “PATHS to Adulthood” uses a positive to violence, either through their own experiences, break the cycle, and with girls who can grow up to youth development framework to promote bonding or from watching it. They see their parents in a resist abuse and stand up against it.

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