www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk tuesday, December 8, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit Covid-19 Total cases Active cases Total cases coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 of the following authorities Epidemiology Unit cases in 0112 695 112 the world 67,556,407 Health Suwasariya Govt. coronavirus hotline Protect yourself from 28,580 Promotion Ambulance Deaths Cases Deaths 0113071073 Bureau Service USA 15,173,802 289,019 If showing symptoms Covid-19 deaths RECOVERED 1999 1990 0117 966 366 1,544,430 INDIA 9,690,798 140,800 BRAZIL 6,603,540 176,962 Presidential Special Task Force for Essential Services Recoverd 20,804 RUSSIA 2,488,912 43,597 142 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 7,636 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 46,730,810 FRANCE 2,292,497 55,155 The above statistics are confirmed up until 9.00 p.m. on 7 December 2020 Source: Health Promotion Bureau

New Covid-19 detections Spreading of Covid-19 Peliyagoda Fish Market Total Cases PHIs issue red alert Decision on z Asymptomatic persons could z Govt. urged to impose strict reopening today 24,739*Stats updated as at 9.00 p.m. on 7 December be moving freely in society movement restrictions The decision on reopening She told The Morning that Covid-19 the Peliyagoda Fish Market the reopening was delayed By Maheesha Mudugamuwa Covid-19-positive cases, and will be made today (8) at a due to health concerns, but Deaths rise to 142 they urged the Government to meeting to be held with all the method by which the fish Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) are issuing a impose strict restrictions on stakeholders including the market is to be opened would Two Covid-19-releated deaths were reported red alert on the spread of the Covid-19 virus last night (7), bringing ’s death toll to 142. public movement within the health officials, according to be decided at the meeting within the country as they claim there could be CMC area in order to control Ministry of Fisheries Secretary today. asymptomatic patients moving freely in society, the virus spreading to other Indu Rathnayake. Contd. on page 2 Airport reopening stated the PHI Union. parts of the country. Contd. on page 2 Pardoning inmates on long sentences next year PHIU President Upul private institutions within the The Government expects to reopen airports to Rohana told The Morning Municipal Council PHIU President tourists by early next year, said Minister of Tourism that almost all public and (CMC) area were reporting Upul Rohana Justice Ministry to . Residents of isolated Stop suppression! draft cabinet paper The (SJB), including A cabinet paper is to Covid-19, the State Ministry Leader , wearing black scarves be drafted including the of Prison Management and areas protest around their necks, protested in front of the Residents of the Methsanda Sevana Housing conditions based on which the Prisoners’ Rehabilitation Presidential Secretariat last evening (7) holding prisoners would be released stated. Scheme in Henamulla, Modara staged a protest torches and a large banner that read “Stop on Sunday (6), objecting to the area’s prolonged Suppression” and “make space for the truth” from the prison system due to Contd. on page 2 state of isolation. Photo Eshan Dasanayaka PHIs quarantined in Sathosa purchases Gampaha In line with procedures; A group of public health inspectors (PHIs) and student PHIs serving in the Gampaha District have been directed to quarantine. not done arbitrarily All purchases through Nushad M. Perera Sathosa are made by explained yesterday (7). Daily PCR testing following a clearly He issued this statement defined procurement in response to a remark increased framework that made by National People’s Ministry of Health Deputy Director General of was decided by a Power (NPP) MP Anura Laboratory Services Dr. Saman Rathnayake said committee and not Kumara Dissanayake the total number of PCR tests carried out on a daily Lanka Sathosa a single individual, in Parliament on 4 basis will be increased to 20,000. Ltd. Chairman Lanka Sathosa December. Nushad M. Perera Ltd. Chairman Contd. on page 2 See full Stories on page 2 Enjoining order on MTV New CG for DC refuses MTV application Graduates Employment Programme COPE against GS Health Excise Dept. The District Court of George Steuart Health. Inland Revenue Department Deputy Irregularities in Colombo has refused the Furthermore, the District Commissioner General M.J. Gunasiri has Concerns over application by MTV Channel Court has extended the been appointed as Excise Department (Pvt.) Ltd. seeking to vacate enjoining order. Commissioner General (CG). NLB revealed the enjoining order against Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 selection criteria The National Lotteries Board (NLB), which SriLankan Airlines The National Centre for and Local Government Secretary was under the Foreign Ministry in 2017, Parliament committee Graduates (NCG) alleged that J.J. Ratnasiri, said: “The has seen its procurement process strongly First intl. flight to a group of graduates have been recruitment process of graduates influenced by the Foreign Minister during that Ministry secretaries and subjected to severe injustice due to commenced on 7 February 2020 time, as disclosed at the Committee on Public land in Melbourne the criteria applied on the selection and since the call for applications Enterprises (COPE) meeting last week (4). Melbourne Airport received its first of graduates under the Graduates from graduates whose graduation It was further revealed that in 2017, a tender envoy approved international flights after over five months, Employment Programme. date is 31 December 2019, we that had completed the procurement process The appointments of four on High Posts, according to as the State of Victoria resumed its hotel NCG Convener Chandana have not been able to complete for the printing of scratch lotteries had been ministry secretaries and an Parliament Secretary General quarantine programme, according to Sooriyarachchi, in a letter to the the formal and accurate suspended by a cabinet decision made at the ambassador were approved by Dhammika Dissanayake. Australian media sources. Ministry of Public Administration, recruitment process. request of the then Foreign Minister, despite the Parliament’s Committee Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, Contd. on page 2 observations that this was an incorrect decision. Contd. on page 2 Sand mining in coconut plantations Isolated areas O/L exam No power disconnections Adverse weather Ministry to act Minister of Power is unable to solely make Begins 1 March Schools in Jaffna, the decision as to whether The GCE Ordinary Level (O/L) examination for said yesterday (7) that such households should 2020 is scheduled to take place from 1-11 March Kilinochchi closed against miners houses in isolated areas receive concessions on 2021, Minister of Education Professor G.L. Pieris would not suffer power their bills. said yesterday (7). The Secretary to the Northern Province z Environment Ministry The Ministry of Environment disconnections if their “The Government has The Education Ministry, this August, initially Governor declared that all schools in the Jaffna awaits report is yet to gauge the extent of bills were not settled. to make the decision on pushed back the dates for the 2020 O/L examination and Kilinochchi Districts would be closed z GSMB advises to coconut cultivations that have However, he how to give concessions to mid-January due to the Covid-19 situation. from yesterday (7) due to inclement weather revoke mining licence been affected by sand mining said the Ceylon to the people, similar Contd. on page 2 conditions. immediately activities, The Morning learnt. Minister of Power Electricity to how we did before,” Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Dullas Alahapperuma Board (CEB) he said. Indian HC meets Fisheries Minister Mahara Prison clash Humanitarian approach to fishermen issue Interim report More families file petitions Indian High Commissioner Ministry yesterday (7). Gopal Baglay has stressed the The High Commissioner to Minister zInquiries into the Prison riots arrived at the Human Rights need to continue to deal with appreciated the ongoing The investigative committee appointed to Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) along the matters related to fishermen co-operation between the inquire into the Mahara Prison riot handed fate of victims with the Committee for Protecting Rights and their boats in a humanitarian authorities of the two countries over its interim report to Minister of Justice of Prisoners (CPRP) yesterday (7) to file manner. on matters related to fishermen. Ali Sabry yesterday (7). zCPRP assists families petitions against the non-sharing of the He expressed these views He pointed out that such The five-member committee headed by retired to file FR petitions health information of their imprisoned when he met Foreign Minister co-operation had saved the High Court Judge Sarojini Kusala Weerawardena family members who were transferred The family members of By Sarah Hanna and precious lives of fishermen of handed over its interim report to the Minister inmates visiting the Human from the Mahara Prison to the Welikada Fisheries Minister Douglas both countries at sea. at the Justice Ministry premises. Rights Commission of Sri Lanka More families of inmates who died Prison following the riots of 29 November. Devananda at the Foreign Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 yesterday (7) Photo Lalith Perera or sustained injuries during the Mahara Contd. on page 2 2 the morning news Tuesday, December 8, 2020

over the years, and COPE Chairman Professor consignment. Madusanka had been imprisoned Prisoners Rehabilitation said: Airport reopening... Humanitarian... directed the relevant officials to in March 2018 and his mother said that to date, “The Ministry of Justice is drafting a cabinet “Whether one likes it or not, we will reopen The High Commissioner thanked Sri Lanka promptly fill these positions under due process. no case had been heard so far. paper to release inmates who have been serving the airports for tourists early next year, while for its co-operation in returning the mortal It was observed that a number of NLB’s “He is my eldest son and worked for a prison sentences for over 20 years, under the adhering to health safety guidelines,” he said. remains of Indian fishermen who lost their procurement guidelines had been amended, company affiliated to the Ports Authority. He concept of early release based on good behaviour, The Minister mentioned this during the debate lives at sea due to inclement weather earlier removed, or reintroduced over the last four was sent to jail when he was 25, and two years where they would be released four years before on expenditure overheads of the Ministry of this year. years, such as the requirement of at least three later, they still have not even taken up his case their sentence is completed.” Ratwatte noted Ports and Shipping, Ministry of Tourism, and He also highlighted concrete steps taken years’ experience in lottery printing and the at court. He was at the Welikada Prison and that releasing inmates serving long jail terms State Ministry of Civil Aviation Export Zones in Parliament last week. by both the Indian Government and the State limitation on NLB selecting printers that also after the (coronavirus) cluster got activated in based on their parole conditions has not taken Ranatunga said the health authorities were Government of Tamil Nadu in addressing supply competing institutions. the Welikada Prison, he was transferred to the place for several years. requested to recommend a date on which to all dimensions of the issue and specifically The need for regulation of the printing process Mahara Prison; the riots took place and they The State Minister also said that the Ministry reopen airports by 1 January 2021. underlined the Government of India’s ongoing was highlighted by the fact that NLB had spent say they moved him back to Welikada, but I intends to settle minor amounts of bail on measures to support and encourage Indian Rs. 609 million in 2016, Rs. 453 million in have not been able to find out what happened behalf of prisoners who are in prison due to fishermen to practise deep-sea fishing. 2017, Rs. 506 million in 2018, and Rs. 530 to him,” the mother complained. their inability to pay it. Ratwatte said that Residents of... He expressed the hope that the next meeting million in 2019 for this purpose. The family lives in Beliatta, and according to arrangements would be made to release at Similarly, residents of the Sathhiru Sevana of the bilateral mechanism on matters pertaining Further irregularities such as the non-payment Madusanka’s mother, comprises three children least 8,000 inmates from 28 prisons across the Housing Scheme on Ferguson Road, Modara to fishermen could soon be arranged online. of an amount of $ 26,000 due from the Colombo – one son and two daughters. She said that the country by the end of this year. also protested the isolation orders. On the proposal for the joint management Airport Super Draw and the lack of transparency youngest brother fell into depression after the – Sarah Hannan The protesters claimed they were not of Palk Bay and the Gulf of Mannar by in the draw process of the Dollar Fortune eldest brother was imprisoned, and is currently receiving sufficient essential food items for Fisheries Minister , the lottery were noted. under psychiatric medication. Her husband is their needs. High Commissioner shared that the forward- Thus, the Committee directed the NLB to working at a state institution and is based in In line with... looking elements in the proposal needed to be ensure these processes are streamlined and Colombo. In the statement, he noted that MP Dissanayake PHIs quarantined... examined in greater detail. made more systematic to mitigate losses and “I am getting to know that some of the had said that “as soon as the import duty was Gampaha District Regional Health Services Meanwhile, the High Commissioner ensure transparency. inmates that were transferred from the Mahara reduced, Sathosa Chairman made an irregular Director Dr. Migara Apa stated this was due responded positively to the request for Present at the COPE meeting were MPs Prison to the Welikada Prison are kept in an purchase of 5,000 MT of sugar from a close to a student PHI serving within the Wattala Government of India assistance in arranging , Dr. , unhygienic area, and they are saying that my son associate of himself and that of a VVIP”. Medical Officer of Health (MOH) Division the repatriation of about 1,500 Sri Lankans , , had sustained injuries during last week’s riots. Perera’s statement clarified: “The procurement having tested positive for Covid-19 in his stranded mostly in South India due to the , , “Last Tuesday (1), I went to the Welikada was carried out through a Ministerial Procurement second PCR test. Covid-19 pandemic. , Patali , Prison and asked a guard whether they could Committee (MPC), which is chaired by the The group of PHIs and student PHIs The two Governments will co-ordinate the S.M. Marikkar, and Premnath C. Dolawatta, as allow me to see my son. They asked the name Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, and comprises quarantined were those who served with him. matter through diplomatic channels. well as Secretary to the Ministry of Treasury and said they too are unable to confirm whether officials from the Ministry of Finance as well as This includes five PHIs identified among his first line of contacts who have been quarantined The High Commissioner thanked Sri Lanka and Finance S.R. Attygalle and NLB Chairman he is held at Welikada. I am worried for the the Chairman of Lanka Sathosa, as members. at the Wattala MOH office. for organising the fourth National Security Lalith Piyum Perera, among other officials. wellbeing of my son,” the mother cried. “In addition, a Technical Committee sits Another 21 student PHIs that served with Adviser (NSA)-level Trilateral Meeting on She said that she trusts that her son had along with the Procurement Committee. The him were directed to a quarantine centre in Maritime Security held in Colombo on 28 nothing to do with the narcotics consignment Technical Committee consists of an Additional Naiwala, Veyangoda. November 2020. Begins 1... that was confiscated. She added that when Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, a senior Out of 50 student PHIs from the Kalutara The High Commissioner and the Minister However, this was further postponed due to questioned, he had not divulged the names official from the Ministry of Agriculture, and PHI training centre that were deployed to serve agreed that enhanced co-operation among the development of the second wave of cases. of his friends who were directly linked to the the Food Technologist of the Co-operative within the 16 MOH Divisions of the Gampaha various countries, particularly Sri Lanka and smuggling of the narcotics. Wholesale Establishment (CWE), as well as District, 28 have been quarantined within India, is crucial for addressing challenges like its DGM of Finance. the Gampaha District, while the remaining terrorism, radicalisation, organised crime, drug “The said procurement of sugar was carried out 22 have been quarantined at the Kalutara Schools in Jaffna... Training Centre. trafficking, etc. in our region. on 20 October 2020, adhering to all procurement The High Commissioner expressed the The Department of Meteorology issued a guidelines by the above committee, and was the confidence that India-Sri Lanka relations will weather advisory stating that the prevailing lowest quoted price for sugar at the procurement Daily PCR... reach new heights in the coming year. showery conditions are expected to continue tender (MPC/064). He said that five government hospitals and further, particularly in the high-risk areas of “The total purchased sugar quantity was five private hospitals have already been granted the Jaffna and Kilinochchi Districts. 750 MT, which is the weekly consumption approval to carry out PCR testing. Concerns over... Heavy rainfall above 100 mm is likely at demand, and not 5,000 MT as stated by the MP Speaking at a press conference in Kandy, “The Government of 2017-2019 took over some places, it warned. in Parliament, and at no time has there been Dr. Rathnayake said that while the present the Ministry of National Policies and Economic any pressure exerted upon him by the President capacity is around 13,000-14,000 PCR tests Affairs with the intention of politicising to make any purchases from anyone,” it said. per day, they have planned to increase this up Interim report... to 20,000 very soon. the recruitment of graduates instead of the Ministry of Public Administration which is Sabry appointed a committee on 30 Families of inmates arriving at the He said that for this purpose, several Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka relevant to the subject of recruitment under November to investigate the incident at the DC refuses... additional hospitals have been approved for Photo Lalith Perera PCR testing, including five private hospitals. the Development Officer Service Minute. Mahara Prison on 29 November and to submit The Colombo District Court had issued an “This will allow us to conduct 20,000 PCR Continuing that informal and confusing a report with recommendations. enjoining order against MTV Channel (Pvt.) tests per day in Sri Lankan hospitals,” he said. process, the present Government also conducted The committee members had visited the Ltd. in a defamation case filed by George graduate recruitments under the Presidential prison premises on several occasions last week PHIs issue... Steuart Health (Pvt.) Ltd. over defamatory Secretariat from 7 February 2020 to 16 August to record evidence. He stressed that the Peliyagoda and news broadcast on its primetime news telecasts. New CG... 2020,” he stated in the letter. The committee also includes Ministry of Divulapitiya clusters reported initially were The plaint referred to several false and He has previously served as the Deputy The NCG alleged that the Government has Justice Chief Legal Advisor U.R. de Silva, still active and the subclusters created from defamatory news segments carried out by Sirasa Commissioner General – Tax Administration so far considered graduation as a recognised Justice Ministry Additional Secretary Rohana the main clusters are also actively spreading in and News 1st on 11, 13, and 16 November (Corporate Small Entities and Non-Corporate qualification in recruitment, but this time the Hapugaswatte, DIG Ajith Rohana, and former other parts of the country including Puttalam, referring to the import of rapid antigen test Sector) of the Inland Revenue Department. recruitment of graduates has been rejected by Prisons Commissioner Gamini Jayasinghe. Kurunegala, and Kalutara. kits by George Steuart Health. the University Grants Commission (UGC). State Ministry of Prison Reforms and “Without controlling the virus in Colombo, “Although the Government has stated that it Prisoners’ Rehabilitation Additional Secretary it’s impossible to control the virus from First intl... has recruited 60,000 graduates, it still needs to Nishan Danasinghe was appointed as the spreading to other parts of the country; instead, Ministry secretaries... First among the initial inbound flights recruit nearly 11,000 to complete the 6 0,000 secretary of the committee. it creates a dangerous situation where the virus The list of approvals include Dr. Anil was SriLankan Airlines flight UL604 number. We further point out that a solution can The committee was tasked with preparing is going beyond control,” Rohana pointed out, Jasinghe as the Secretary to the Ministry of from Colombo, which landed just before 8 be found within the said 11,000 – those who a report on the facts underlying the incident, adding that even in areas where the virus was Environment, Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama a.m. yesterday (7), among a total of eight have been subjected to injustice due to various the parties responsible, actions to be taken, said to be successfully controlled, there were as the Secretary to the Ministry of Water international passenger flights carrying 253 reasons mentioned above,” the letter stated. and recommendations to be taken to prevent positive cases still being reported. “As an Supply, Prof. Kapila Perera as the Secretary passengers. They urged the Government to provide an such incidents. example, in Divulapitiya, around 25 new cases to the Ministry of Higher Education, and Melbourne Airport had thus far been closed acceptable solution on or before 11 December The committee was expected to submit were identified during random PCR tests.” M.M.P.K. Mayadunne as the Secretary to to such flights since July, when a number of 2020 as the recruitment process may end by an interim report within one week and Elaborating on the need to reconsider the the Ministry of Justice. hotel quarantine workers in Victoria were 31 December 2020. recommendations on short-term and long- policy decisions taken by the Government In addition, the appointment of M. discovered to have contracted Covid-19 – Maheesha Mudugamuwa term actions within a month. to reopen some parts gradually, the PHIU Mohamed as the Sri Lankan Ambassador from guests. This incident was attributed as A total of 11 inmates had died while 106 noted that employees in public and private to Qatar was approved by the committee. the start of the State’s second wave, which others and two prison officials had sustained institutions, Colombo Dockyard, the Sri Lanka Present at the committee meeting resulted in over 18,000 infections and 800 Irregularities in... injuries during a tense situation at the Mahara Ports Authority (SLPA), media institutions, were MPs , Dinesh deaths. Accordingly, this tender, which was rightfully Prison on 29 November when a group of telecommunication companies, and even Gunawardena, Douglas Devananda, Udaya As of now, Victoria has recorded 38 due to be awarded to Aqua Flex Lanka (Pvt.) inmates had attempted to break out from prison beggars in Colombo are testing positive for Gammanpila, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, consecutive days without new Covid-19 Ltd., had been halted. It was noted at the COPE following a conflict with prison officials. the virus, which means the decision taken by , Vidura Wickramanayake, cases. meeting that this cabinet decision was unduly Prison authorities had opened fire to control the government to reopen the country is wrong. and Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle. The Victoria Police, supported by influenced by Printcare Secure (Pvt.) Ltd. the situation and a team of Police Special Task “Colombo is now going beyond control,” he Australian Defence Force personnel, will be and has resulted in heavy losses to the NLB. Force (STF) personnel were deployed to assist stressed. “As a result of opening Colombo, the at the forefront of managing the programme. However, it is not yet possible to call for new prison authorities. virus is now spreading around the country.” Ministry to... It will see participation by 11 airports and tenders for this purpose. Subsequently, a massive fire had broken out When asked what actions they proposed, the CBD hotels, including the Stamford Hotel, Additionally, it was revealed that NLB’s at the prison when several inmates set fire to PHIU urged the Government to immediately Last week, when the Ministerial Consultative which was the site of one of the two outbreaks annual reports for 2017, 2018, and 2019 had the health office, a storage area, and several lockdown high-risk areas and restrict all public Committee on Environment met in Parliament, that occurred in June. not been submitted to Parliament. other places within the prison. movement. “We get to know about a cluster the effects of sand mining on the coconut yields Hotel guests will have to pay about $ 3,500 The Committee instructed that this matter be when a death is reported, or a person tests in recent times were discussed. for their 14-day stay, while fresh air and looked into, with the relevant reports submitted positive for the virus during a random PCR Ministry of Environment Secretary Dr. Anil exercise breaks will be banned to prevent as soon as possible. It was also noted that NLB More families... check. There are a number of asymptomatic Jasinghe, speaking to The Morning, said: “It movement inside hotels. had seen several vacancies in executive posts patients who are moving freely,” he said. is reported that sand mining is taking place on Among the first batch of families to arrive The PHIU also alleged that most of the a larger scale within the coconut plantations was the wife of inmate Roshan Sameera. She companies in Colombo were not adhering to located in the North Western Province. We was cradling her month-old daughter, while health guidelines and people do not follow are yet to get a full report of the areas that two children, aged two-and-a-half years and health guidelines. the sand mining has taken place. Meanwhile, Cartoon of the day eight years, followed her closely. The Police Unless public movement is restricted, there we have informed the Geological Survey and had called her to say that her husband was is no hope of controlling the virus, Rohana Mines Bureau (GSMB) to revoke the licenses transferred from Mahara Prison to Welikada stressed. they issued to these entities for sand mining.” Prison following the riots During the Ministerial Consultative Speaking to The Morning, she said: “We Committee meeting, State Minister D.B. live in Dehiyagatha, Ja-Ela. My husband was Decision on... Herath had raised concerns that the fertility imprisoned on 18 April from the Wattala Courts “The market will be reopened while of the soil in the coconut plantations was this year on the suspicion of a minor crime; the adhering to all safety precautions issued by getting affected due to sand mining activities Magistrate had approved his bail application, the health authorities. In parallel, all other that were taking place. but they were not releasing him from prison. fisheries harbours will also be reopened for Minister of Environment Mahinda All I am asking is for the authorities to make operations,” Rathnayake said, adding that Amaraweera meanwhile instructed the GSMB arrangements to release him.” the Peliyagoda Fish Market has already been to revoke the sand mining licences issued to Sameera’s family is at the moment being disinfected, and prior its reopening, it will be coconut plantation companies immediately. aided by family members and friends, as subjected to comprehensive safety check-ups The Ministry also asked the GSMB to revoke with their breadwinner in prison, they are in and disinfections. any other sand mining licences, if sand mining a difficult position. “Following the reopening of the market, we is found to be taking place within coconut “We cannot depend on the kindness of other hope the fisheries supply will return back to plantations across the country. people forever. At this moment, I want to know normal. It is important for everybody to follow – Sarah Hannan whether my husband is alive and if he is injured, the health guidelines. Strict safety adherence whether he is receiving medical attention, and will be made compulsory for each harbour then to know as to which prison he is being along with the fish markets,” she stressed. Deaths rise... held at,” she lamented. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa We then spoke to the mother of Suminda The victims were 62-year-old and 77-year- Madusanka, another inmate. She said her son old males from Colombo, stated the Director was imprisoned on the suspicion of aiding Justice Ministry... General of the Department of Government a group of drug dealers to move a narcotic State Minister of Prison Management and Information. the morning Tuesday, December 8, 2020 3 business The reopening of the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is set to be further delayed due to the appointment of a new Protocol review to further committee, despite earlier reports that it would be opened in early January, according to Sri Lanka Tourism. “A detailed Airport Opening delay BIA reopening Protocol has been developed in the last several months and presented support our stakeholders to ensure the Sri Lanka Tourism Development and Secure Certification”, if they are the guidelines. Sri Lanka Tourism to Minister of Health Pavithra safety of all and reach out to support Authority (SLTDA). ready to be audited by KPMG. The published the “Health Protocols” for Wanniarachchi. Another committee you to thrive in the new normal that The application is available online SLTDA said auditing and certification the tourism sector in June 2020 based has been appointed today (7) to again we face at this time.” and can be accessed through https:// are stringent considering the nature on global best practices, giving ample review the protocol, which we are Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Tourism sltda.gov.lk/safe-certification. of the virus as compromises can be time for the industry to be familiar made to understand will further delay announced that over 92 tourism Based on the applied date, the audit dangerous and are in line with other with the guidelines. the airport opening,” it said in a press establishments, accommodation schedules will be prepared by the countries in the region. Several training sessions were release issued yesterday (7). providers, and tour operators SLTDA and forwarded to KPMG for For the accommodation sector, conducted on pandemic preparedness Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson have been awarded the “Safe and implementation. travel agents/tour operators, and for SMEs (small and medium Kimarli Fernando said that the Secure Certification” to service and Sri Lanka was one of the first in standalone facilities, the assessments enterprises), designed, and rolled tourism authorities are unable to open accommodate international tourists the Asian region to prepare and issue will include completing KPMG’s out together with S4IG Australia the airport without the approval of the for the first 14 days so far. a comprehensive Covid-19 Health initial checklist/questionnaire by the and Asian Development Bank. health authorities. Sri Lanka received the Safe Travel Protocol for the tourism industry relevant service provider, which will Covid-19 guideline training was “This is a global health pandemic Stamp from the World Travel and Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson Kimarli which was developed and issued be followed by the physical on-site conducted partnering with the Market and we are guided by the health Tourism Council, reflective of the Fernando with the support of the Ministry of audit at a pre-arranged date. Development Facility (MDF) of officials. Diluting the health protocols sound protocol implemented by Sri Sri Lanka Tourism added Health, the United Nations (UN), Assessment of the tour crews Australia and The Hotels Association would compromise the safety of Lanka Tourism. This includes the that it continues to audit and World Health Organisation (WHO), including tour guides and chauffeurs of Sri Lanka (THASL). Sri Lanka international travellers and citizens independent auditing firm KPMG award certifications to tourism and the input of the industry. Any are based on an examination Tourism has urged all the stakeholder when the airport reopens. Unless inspecting the “Safe and Secure establishments, accommodation SLTDA-registered tourism service conducted by KPMG to check associations to arrange similar the Ministry of Health gives us the Certification” that provides global providers, and tour operators. The provider from accommodations, the level of overall knowledge training programmes for its members, approval to relax the health and travellers with the comfort and audits are conducted free of charge travel agents, tour operators, tours and awareness on the guideline offering the SLTDA’s support by safety protocols, we are unable to do confidence that Sri Lanka has taken for the first-time certification where crews (tour guides and chauffeurs), or contents with special attention to providing trainers who are familiar so. Meanwhile, we will continue to all necessary steps to ensure safety. the costs are being borne by the other services can apply for the “Safe details in chapters three and six of with the guidelines. Why even imported Crysbro spearheads pads shouldn’t be taxed By irrigation development Aneetha Warusavitarana Sri Lanka’s exorbitant project in Kantale taxes on sanitary napkins had the media spotlight over Poultry producer Crysbro communities thereby bringing the last few weeks – this is announced that it recently employment opportunities and not a new issue. In 2018, spearheaded the development a steady source of income for the total tariffs on sanitary of a water irrigation system to a large number of families. napkins was over 101.2%. strengthen and elevate farming In many areas in Kantale too, Since then, we have seen practices in the Suriyapura and which was a region deeply some progress, with the Helambayaya villages in the impacted by the war, we tax being reduced from tariffs cause both the locally debilitating. In short, one Kantale region. managed to embolden and 101.2% to its current rate of produced goods and the size does not fit all when it Launched in association with elevate the living standards 52%; a result of several tax imported goods to be sold at comes to menstrual hygiene the Department of Mahaweli of communities by offering revisions. a higher price. products. In response to this Development and Environment entrepreneurship opportunities The 2020 Budget revised These tariffs are also fact, the global industry has and the Ministry of Irrigation, and improving their agricultural Crysbro elevates irrigation systems in Kantale down general duties for keeping more affordable innovated – period cups, Crysbro said its latest initiative infrastructure to conduct sanitary napkins to 15% options out of the market. period underwear, reusable aims to alleviate rural poverty in critical requirement, none have project a success, but in the end, cultivation operations better and introduced a CESS tax At the time of writing, pads, and more. These tariffs these villages deeply affected by proven to be successful. it was with Crysbro's vision that and faster," Crysbro Senior of 15%, causing an uproar locally manufactured should be removed, and Sri constant drought and the 30-year Commenting on the initiative, we were able to make our long- Marketing Manager Amores in social media and in products can range in price Lankan women should also long civil war in Sri Farmer's Association of cherished dream a reality." Sellar said. Parliament, leading to fresh (per pad) from Rs. 11 to be given access to these Lanka. Kantale Helambayaya The new canal was built Crysbro’s flagship CSR calls for the abolition of Rs. 19. However, cheap choices. The new irrigation Chairman G.G. Bandula upon the fervent request of (corporate social responsibility) these taxes. imported alternatives are system provides these said: “Although our the Helambayaya Farmer's projects that focused on Menstrual hygiene not available. For example, Economic rents two villages with a farmers have made Association, and was given rural economic and social products are essential for Indian supermarkets have By now it should be permanent source of numerous attempts to technical support and approval empowerment include Diri girls and women, and this products at the equivalent clear that there is only one water to nourish their cultivate during the by the department of Mahaweli Saviya, Praja Aruna, Sisu Diriya, issue has put the interests of of Rs. 5. The tariffs may winner, and it is not the farming practices all Yala and Maha seasons Development and Ministry of Suwa Shakthi, and Haritha Farmer’s these consumers who want not be deterring higher millions of menstruating year long, allowing Association after the war, we were Irrigation. Crysbro also provided Sathkara. The company also more variety and cheaper priced imports from women. The basic them to cultivate during of Kantale not successful due to excavating machinery and operates a large-scale farm in products against the interests entering the market, but it explanation of the impact both the Yala and Maha Helambayaya insufficient access to a earthmoving equipment free of Kantale, which is used for seed of the local producers who could be possible that this protectionist tariffs have is seasons, previously Chairman G.G. reliable water source. charge, towards the success of paddy production. This along want larger margins. Since is happening with more that they serve to benefit an impossibility Bandula Due to the unpredictable this project. with numerous other poultry the initial uproar last week, affordable imported options local producers that are few due to constant droughts, the nature of rains in the region, “As a fully homegrown operations and maize farms there have been claims that – it makes little sense to in number. They shield them company noted. Although the we have long suffered from company, Crysbro has always across the island, has created the local brands account for bring in a cheaper product from competition and allow Mahaweli River flows past this constant droughts for most been at the forefront of thousands of employment 95% of the local market and if the tariff raises your costs them to price well above region, villagers were unable to part of the year, which heavily spearheading initiatives that opportunities, Crysbro said. therefore import taxes do to the point where you have marginal costs. A classic construct a small canal as close incapacitated our cultivation. uplift the rural population and Established in 1972 with just not have a bearing on the to price the final good at the case of “rent seeking” as 4 km away, which is the ideal The answer to this predicament alleviate rural poverty. Over the 100 chicks, Crysbro emerged as market price. same price point as your behaviour, where a company location for a primary water was a permanent water source in years, our initiatives have made Sri Lanka’s first fully vertically more expensive product. lobbies to secure itself source for their cultivations. the form of a canal dug just 4 km a significant contribution to integrated poultry producer. Its Bringing the debate protection in order to charge While several attempts were away from the villages that is fed elevate agricultural infrastructure operations span grandparent and back to where it Will removing the a higher price. The result is made to inform political by the Mahaweli River. We took in the country as well as to create parent farms, hatcheries, broiler matters tax only affect high- that the local consumer loses authorities regarding their various measures to make this new entrepreneurs within these farms, and feed mills. It is clear that for this income earners? out. issue, policy decisions have An argument levelled There is one area where to be taken with the best against the removal of the the producer's complaints interests of the consumer tax has been that imported do have merits – that is at heart – in this case, the products are often out of the tariffs placed on their Ideal supplies DAF Prime Mover millions of menstruating reach of the average Sri inputs. Much of the input women. Lankan woman, and as that goes into the production At the most basic level of such has little relevance of sanitary napkins are also trucks to Navil Enterprises analysis, when protectionist as a policy decision. This taxed. The Government tariffs are placed on a good, argument has also been should look into reducing European vehicles importer Ideal Logistics Chief Executive Officer (CEO) it is the consumer who loses coupled with the statement these costs to help the local Automobiles (Pvt.) Ltd. announced it Chanaka Gunatilake. out. The tariffs will achieve that as locally manufactured manufacturers stay price strengthened the Navil Enterprises (Pvt.) “We also selected Ideal Automobiles two things: they will limit products exist, and women competitive. Ltd. transportation fleet, supplying six DAF specifically because it is a trusted entity and the range of products that do purchase them, why Given this, there is a clear Prime Mover trucks recently. provides a superlative after-sales service,” he enter the domestic market, should we care about call to reform – prioritise Fuel transporting company Navil added. “Founded in 2005, Ideal Automobiles and they will raise the prices bringing in imports? the requirements of women, Enterprises said it acquired the heavy (Pvt.) Ltd. imports a variety of European of both imported products The example provided and remove the taxes vehicles from Ideal Automobiles to provide cars and trucks. The vehicle models cater to and locally manufactured above makes it clear that imposed on the final good their client Laugfs Gas Terminal at the customer requirements. A vehicle service products. removing the tax would and on the inputs used in the Hambantota Port a “seamless solution” centre dedicated for these European models How so? The inputs actually bring more production of these goods. to transport gas. Ideal Motors Group is located in Ratmalana. Additionally, into the local production affordable products into the (The writer is the Founder and current Chairman Nalin our service centre in Wanawasala Road, process are also taxed, market. This is also where Research Manager at the Welgama handed over the vehicles to Navil Kelaniya solely caters to all the service which raises production the importance of choice Advocata Institute and can Enterprises (Pvt.) Ltd. Managing Director requirements of Prime Mover trucks,” noted Ideal Motors Group Founder and current costs, and therefore raises comes into play. Each be contacted at aneetha@ (MD) Prasitha Thrimal during a simple Chairman Nalin Welgama handing over the Ideal Automobiles CEO Charu Seneviratne. the final price of the locally woman will have different advocata.org or @ ceremony which took place recently. vehicles to Navil Enterprises MD Prasitha “This service centre provides a full range manufactured product. requirements at different AneethaW on Twitter. The “Established in 2005, Navil Enterprises Thrimal. Also pictured are (from left:) Navil of services for Prime Mover trucks including Additionally, the tariff raises points in their life. This is opinions expressed are the is engaged in providing transportation Enterprises GM Prabath Karunaratne, Navil repairs and accident repairs, using advanced Logistics CEO Chanaka Gunatilake, Ideal the price of the imported compounded by the fact author's own views. They solutions for sectors such as oil, gas, Automobiles CEO Charu Seneviratne, and technology for electronic vehicle scanning, product, which allows local that menstruation is often may not necessarily reflect cement, and coal, and also caters to the Manager Dhamikka Gunasdasa and a host of other service requirements. producers to raise their accompanied by pain and the views of the Advocata logistics and transportation needs of Lanka In addition, the service centre is equipped prices and keep substantial discomfort, which can range Institute, or anyone Sathosa. We required vehicles which were Automobiles as it has a strong reputation with necessary spare parts for the trucks and margins. In other words, from mildly annoying to affiliated with the institute) superior and reliable to transport gas from for importing European trucks and vehicles also operates 24-hour roadside assistance the Hambantota Port. We selected Ideal which also best suit our needs,” stated Navil facilities for customers,” he added. the morning 4 Tuesday, December 8, 2020 brunch Amazon’s THE LORD

The Pearl Protectors’ OF THE seasonal upcycling competition underway RINGS The Pearl Protectors, Christmas decorations and an organisation that aims to share the results with them, protect oceans by reducing to create a mosaic called the to feature local talent plastic waste, is celebrating Virtual Upcycled Plastic this festive season by calling Christmas Tree of 2020. Sri Lankan-born actress Thusitha Jayasundera joins cast on people to convert their Interested participants will plastic waste into Christmas need to convert any household Amazon Studios recently announced 20 additional decorations. plastic waste items into Noting that this season creative Christmas decorations cast members that will be joining the ensemble will require less exuberant and submit photos of one cast of the Amazon Original Series based on festivities due to the or more of their creations to the iconic The Lord of the Rings novels by J.R.R. pandemic, the organisation, thepearlprotectors@gmail. Tolkien, and Sri Lankan-born actress Thusitha which celebrated the season com before 22 December. Jayasundera is one of them. in previous years by crafting All images will be put a Christmas tree at the together to create the mosaic The newly revealed McCallum, Simon Merrells, Wellawatte Beach using of the Virtual Upcycled Plastic cast members will join the Geoff Morrell, Peter Mullan, PET bottles gathered through Christmas Tree of 2020, while previously announced global Lloyd Owen, Augustus Prew, coastal cleanups, is instead more creative submissions will cast and crew currently Peter Tait, Alex Tarrant, Leon inviting online entries for a receive special recognition. filming in New Zealand. Wadham, Benjamin Walker virtual tree this year. More details on the event The new cast members and Sara Zwangobani. In a bid to promote the are available on The Pearl include Cynthia Addai- Jayasundera was born concept of upcycling or Protectors’ Facebook page. Robinson, Maxim Baldry, Ian in 1971 in Sri Lanka. The creative reuse, where waste At least 8 million tonnes Blackburn, Kip Chapman, actress is known for the products are repurposed of plastic end up in our oceans Anthony Crum, Maxine movies The Foreigner for artistic or utility value, every year and make up 80% Cunliffe, Trystan Gravelle, (2017), Doctor Foster: A The Pearl Protectors is of all marine debris from Sir Lenny Henry, Thusitha Woman Scorned (2015), and Thusitha Jayasundera encouraging people to surface waters to deep-sea Jayasundera, Fabian The Bill (1984). PHOTO DILLON BRYDEN convert their waste items into sediments. MARKING 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE High School Junkies chats with British Council to host virtual panel on cinematographer Fabian Wagner ‘Unpacking Violence’ BY NAVEED ROZAIS Independent filmmaking collective The British Council in Sri Lanka is Council and their partners across Sri Lanka High School Junkies held a webinar participating in the annual international to raise awareness and tackle stigma.” on 6 December with cinematographer campaign “16 days of activism against Among other inspiring and Fabian Wagner. gender-based violence”, which began on 25 collaborative projects that the British Wagner is an experienced November and will end on 10 December, Council is engaged in is its partnership cinematographer who has worked on the International Human Rights Day. with Hashtag Generation. This youth-led massive film and television projects In commemoration of this campaign, movement advocates for change through such as Game of Thrones (Battle of the British Council is hosting an interactive volunteering and collective action, the Bastards), Sherlock, The Crown, virtual panel discussion titled “Unpacking promoting community-level dialogue on Overlord, Victor Frankenstein, and Violence” on Wednesday (9). The event gender equality. Justice League. aims to help audiences better understand Hashtag Generation’s social media The webinar took place ahead the various initiatives taking place to create campaign #HerSafeSpace addressed of 2021’s release of Zack Snyder’s awareness, change perceptions, and address violence against women and girls. The Justice League, the director’s cut of the the causes, while countering the stigma project engaged women, men, and youth 2017 American superhero film Justice relating to gender-based violence/violence through various community activities in League. It presents Justice League – the against women. the Monaragala, Hambanthota, Jaffna, and fifth film of the DC Extended Universe The British Council in Sri Lanka Batticaloa Districts. (DCEU) and based on the DC Comics has, through its many projects, supported Explaining the British Council’s superhero team of the same name – gender equality and reducing violence contribution, Hashtag Generation Co- as director Zack Snyder originally against women. Together with civil society founder and Director Senel Wanniarachchi intended, before he left production and assistance, they have offered technical said: “For Hashtag Generation, this was Joss Whedon took over his duties. The assistance, capacity building, and grants to a really good experience. It was not a Snyder Cut is set to be released early- implement innovative projects. communication campaign featuring experts mid 2021. Wednesday’s panel discussion promises in a more technical sense; it was centred on Wagner spoke about the upcoming to be a thought-provoking event with the voices of women, men, and youth from release of the Snyder Cut, sharing that it an impressive lineup of women’s rights these four districts.” was an inspiring movement fronted by activists and inspirational speakers. They He added: “It was also not just the fans of Justice League and the DCEU, will share ideas and their commitments training itself. After our training, the that says a lot about their commitment to increase the momentum on addressing participants were required to do their own and love for Zack Snyder and his vision. gender-based violence, and will also discuss social action projects. This ensured that our Wagner also shared that it was also very something which, he feels, Covid-19 the benefits and recognise the downfalls projects implemented in partnership with the impact was not limited to the small group encouraging for him to be able to see has accelerated. “I love cinema, and of both. Wagner did note that it was British Council. being trained, and they were able to take his work come to life as it originally going to the cinema, and cinema won’t important for cinematographers to be The panellists will be Sri Lankan pop this message to their communities through should have. die as such, but it will become more able to choose the medium they would sensation Ashanthi De Alwis, well-known various initiatives.” Speaking on his own journey into of a niche. Now people have TVs and like to shoot on, something that is filmmaker, art curator, and sociologist Addressing gender-based violence, filmmaking, Wagner shared that he sound systems in their homes, and many currently decided by the production Anoma Rajakaruna, Foundation for the British Council also launched a booklet had always loved film and television, will choose to stay and watch movies at team, and not the cinematographer. Innovative Social Development (FISD) titled “Empowering Communities to starting to make his own short films home.” Sharing his insight with up- Programmes Director Samitha Sugathimala, Address Violence Against Women and before going to film school in Denmark, Wagner also noted that big and-coming filmmakers, Wagner who is an expert on gender-related Girls”. The publication, part of the British and then moving on to work in England, distributors are already aware of encouraged being honest and true to development issues, Jaffna Social Action Council’s ongoing campaign, highlighted shooting various projects, from chap this shift, particularly now, with the yourself, explaining that “bullshit Centre Co-ordinator and Jaffna NGO several inspirational success stories of commercials to music videos, to short pandemic in full force, with many of always comes to the surface sooner or Council President Nadarajah Sukirtharaj, how women and young people in rural films and teen dramas. Working in these distributors releasing movies on later”. Wagner stressed that it takes a who holds vast expertise on women’s and areas were able to lead change in their own television gave him the chance to work streaming platforms at the same time lot of hard work to make it in film. “It’s girls’ rights-based issues, and feminist communities. on big projects, including Season 2 of they release them in cinemas. one of those industries where the more writer, researcher, and activist Sharanya Through its arts work, the British BBC’s Sherlock, and HBO’s Game of Wagner also answered questions you give, the more you get. I worked Sekaram, who is well-known for her Council’s Voices and Grants Scheme is also Thrones. on the film production process, sharing for years and years and years and years work in the gender space. Writer and addressing women and girls’ issues relating Wagner also spoke on how the how storyboarding helps filmmakers doing things for free, trying to learn, communications specialist Kinita Shenoy to gender equality and empowerment. industry has evolved since he first communicate their ideas and plans to meeting people, and clicking with will moderate the event. British Council Country Director began working 15-20 years ago with the various departments involved in people.” Commenting on British Council’s Maarya Rehman said” “Drawing on our his first TV drama, explaining that producing a film or television show, He also answered further questions initiatives, British High Commissioner to wealth of experience and resources, these TV has become much bigger now in like the lighting department, camera on the Snyder Cut, how it was Sri Lanka Sarah Hulton said: “Gender-based projects, through our work in arts and terms of scale, budgets, and ambition, department, art department, visual produced, and what he hopes to see violence is intolerable in all its forms and society, help us partner with local grassroots and that there is now much difference effects department, and so on. when it is released in 2021. is still destroying lives around the world. organisations and women’s rights activists, between film and television, with the Speaking on the transition from film The pandemic has exacerbated the issue making a positive change in attitudes and entire television process becoming more to digital in terms of shooting, Wagner High School Junkies’ live and reminded us that home is not always behaviours towards preventing gender cinematic, from technical details like explained that he was lucky that, when conversation with Fabian a safe space. The UK is firmly committed violence. Through this, we also reinforce our aspect ratios to overall look and feel. he started out, everything was on film, Wagner can be viewed in its Streaming has served to blur these with the transition to shooting digitally to supporting work to end gender-based commitment to empower women and girls entirety on the High School violence and support survivors. We are towards the development of a more open, boundaries, and Wagner observed that, happening only 10 or so years ago. proud of the inspirational work by British inclusive, and secure society.” on a personal level, he has held a rather Wagner shared that he enjoyed shooting Junkies Facebook page bleak outlook on the future of cinema; in both mediums, and could appreciate the morning 5 Tuesday, December 8, 2020 sports ‘Development shoes’ get green light Kane goes on paternity leave ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ World Athletics yesterday (7) made amendments to its running New Zealand Kane Williamson’s partner Sarah Raheem Last Sunday (6) evening provided English football one of its lump-in-the- shoes rules, which will now allow “development shoes” to be worn is due to give birth to their first child later this month. Now Kane throat moments. This wasn’t the first match in England to welcome fans in international competitions. It follows requests from all major might have to take paternity leave. The team will be perfectly fine back to stadia “after” the pandemic. But Sunday heard the emotional shoe manufacturers and the industry’s representative body, the with that. Coach Gary Stead said that sometimes “other things are “You’ll Never Walk Alone” at Anfield again. “I had goosebumps,” said World Federation of the Sports Good Industry. The new rules allow much more important” than cricket, and if Williamson misses some Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. “I had no idea what to expect when they “development shoes” to be worn for a 12-month “development” matches, “so be it”. Williamson’s massive 251 against the West Indies started ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’. After 10 months, it was very emotional.” period in international competitions and events sanctioned by last week catapulted him yesterday (7) into joint second place in the 271 days since it was last sung in this stadium, 2,000 Liverpool fans member federations where World Athletics rules are applied. international men’s Test batting rankings, with India Captain Virat Kohli. belted it out with gusto before the match with the Wolves, BBC reported.

INAUGURAL SABUDDHI SPORTS LITERATURE AWARDS Palitha and Premasara Will England to receive once-in-a- lifetime awards tour cancellation The inaugural Sabuddhi Sports Literature Awards Ceremony 2020, sponsored by Sri Lanka Telecom and Mobitel, will be held on affect SL series? Friday (11) at the Duncan White Auditorium of z the Ministry of Sports, England return home after abandoning SA ODIs Colombo 7. Two veteran BY REVATHA S. SILVA and Pakistan during this home and acclaimed sports season.” broadcasters, journalists, and England’s cricket tour of It also added: “There is clear commentators, Palitha Perera South Africa was called frustration, however, that after and Premasara Epasinghe, off yesterday (7) following an English season which did not have been nominated by the Palitha Perera Premasara Epasinghe the outbreak of Covid-19 return a single positive test during organisers, the Sabuddhi the visits of West Indies (men and Lanka that have among both teams’ camps Literary Circle, for the once- Perera is also credited for women), Pakistan, Ireland, and contributed for the and staff at their hotel, in-a-lifetime Sabuddhi Gold his tireless and passionate Australia, the bio-secure setup upliftment of sports The Vineyard in Cape Award this year. effort to introduce a Sinhalese in South Africa has not worked. literature Town. The Gold Awards are diction, in place of the usual “There was then a 10-day gap being presented to the English cricket jargon, which yy Radio, Television, and With the tour cancelled and before a third (South Africa) popular duo for initiating has now sunk into the day- New Media (Digital) England returning back to player (Heinrich Klaasen) and developing the Sinhala to-day life of the Sri Lankan which contributed for their country, how would this reported symptoms at the start language live cricket people. He also introduced a sports literature development affect Sri Lanka’s of this apparent recent outbreak, commentaries, particularly second generation of Sinhala yy Best Sports Magazine tour of South Africa this month? leaving the hotel owners and CSA on radio, which became a cricket commentators, of of the Year The Morning Sports learnt last baffled as to how the integrity of main reason for the game which Epasinghe became a (The awards consider night that (SLC) the so-called bio-secure bubble to reach far off villages of leading figure. In the 1970s, work appeared in year was contemplating calling off the England abandoned their ODI series in South Africa yesterday (7) and had been compromised.” the island, thereby attracting Epasinghe made live radio 2019) tour, but they were yet to come to decided to return home after fears of uncontrolled spread of Covid-19 different social strata to cricket commentaries more a conclusive decision by the time Ensure mental and cricket, which, according popular by his exquisite and What Rohan this edition was finalised. Boxing Day (26 December) at the England were to return physical health to critics, played a key role intense style. Fernando said Centurion while the second and on Thursday The decision to cancel the in Sri Lanka becoming World Rohan Fernando, Tour hangs in the last Test is to begin on 3 January series yesterday had been taken Cup champions in the sport 20th anniversary of Chairman of Sri Lanka balance 2021 at Wanderers Stadium, When Monday’s ODI looked jointly by the two boards to in 1996. Susanthika’s feat Telecom (SLT), the title “At least three players Johannesburg. unlikely, two back-to-back ODIs ensure the mental and physical World-renowned athlete sponsor of the awards unexpectedly testing positive Meanwhile, National Selection were planned to be played on health and welfare of players Palitha’s pioneering Susanthika Jayasinghe will ceremony, has said sports while being within the bio-secure Committee Chief Ashantha de Mel Tuesday (today) and Wednesday from both teams. CSA and the contribution also receive the Sabuddhi are an essential component bubble during the England vs. said yesterday that the squad for (tomorrow) as a backup plan. England and Wales Cricket Board It was Palitha Perera who Gold Award on Friday for in the development of any South Africa series does not reflect the South Africa series was picked England were to leave South (ECB) will now work together to introduced live Sinhala her silver medal-winning country. well on the health guidelines and yesterday. Africa anyway on Thursday (10) determine when the three-match cricket commentaries as feat in the Women’s 200 “Sport can be utilised to the anti-coronavirus measures in via a charter flight. series, which forms part of the far back as in 1963, via metres at the 2000 Sydney shape the hearts and minds South Africa,” said an official who First match cancelled Their squad members Lewis International Cricket Council an interschool Big Match Olympics. The Sabuddhi of youths in particular and is aware of the developments, on It was only on Sunday (6) that Gregory, Liam Livingstone, Tom (ICC) Men’s Super League, can between his alma mater Awards Ceremony 2020 also lead them to society in the condition of anonymity. the first ODI between England Curran, Jason Roy, and Sam take place in the future. Nalanda College and Ananda marks the 20th anniversary a disciplined manner. Sri However, he said the fate of and South Africa was cancelled at Billings were meant to head to CSA Acting Chief Executive College, Colombo. These of Jayasinghe’s historic Lanka Telecom likes to work Sri Lanka’s Test tour was in the Paarl. The second and third ODIs Australia for the Big Bash League Officer (CEO) Kugandrie commentaries, later aired Olympic triumph. closely with organisations balance in the light of the present were scheduled for yesterday (7) (BPL). Govender said: “The concern on the international games Some of the other that contribute to this end. developments in South Africa. and tomorrow (9) at Cape Town. over the mental health impact played in the country too, awards include: Therefore, as the chief The two countries had SA bio-secure setup of recent events on all involved soon turned out to be the communicator of Sri SL starts playing there completed their three-match T20I didn’t work is not one that we as CSA or yy Best Sports Literary on 17 December main vehicle for cricket Writer of the Year Lanka, SLT is pleased to series which the touring team The Guardian reported on the ECB take lightly and the to reach majority Sinhala have this opportunity to Sri Lanka are scheduled to tour won comprehensively 3-0 on 1 Monday before the series decision to postpone the tour yy Best Academic Sports masses at a time there participate in the Sabuddhi South Africa on 17 December December. Prior to the England cancellation: “For Cricket is the most responsible and Book of the Year was no TV (which was Awards Ceremony on Sports for two Tests. Their three-day series, CSA was in political South Africa, already struggling reasonable course of action for introduced to Sri Lanka only yy Sports Literature Literature 2020.” practice match against a Cricket turmoil after its elected body was financially, a wiped out three- us. I would like to thank the in the late 1970s). Soon after Book of the Year on Minister of Sports and South Africa (CSA) Invitation XI ousted and the country’s cricket match series would see it lose an ECB for the continued positive Independence, cricket had Miscellaneous Subjects Youth Affairs Namal is fixed from 20-22 December at administration came under a estimated £ 1.5 million (Rs. 372 relations and we look forward been more an upper class, yy Daily and Weekly Rajapaksa will be the Chief Willowmoore Park, Benoni. government-appointed interim million) and threatens upcoming to hosting the England team in Colombo-centred sport. Newspapers in Sri Guest on the occasion. The first Test is to begin on administration. visits by Sri Lanka, Australia, the near future.” ’s notes on journeys

garden well and if it has bloomed or at least Ranjan Senerath Madugalle INTERCEPTION survived the bludgeoning at the hands of the vile, much of the credit should go to him. If Born: 22 April 1959 (age 61) by he were to depart today, he would no doubt Batting style: Right-handed batsman sleep well. Schools: Trinity College, Kandy; and Royal Malinda Seneviratne The transcriber also caught some advice he College, Colombo had offered youngsters. There were four lines. As a player: Represented Sri Lanka from We will talk about the first: “No journey is a 1979-88 playing in 21 Tests to score Ranjan is not all silence with smiles and joyride. No journey is planned. No journey is 1,029 runs at an average of 29.40 and in nods though. There are times he speaks. And Ranjan Madugalle structured the way you want.” 63 ODIs scoring 950 runs at 18.62 sometimes people take notes or, in this case, remember, was always inserted into the Big Captain: He was Sri Lanka’s fourth transcribe. Match souvenir of his school. All five years Let’s break it down Test Captain, appointed in 1988 after What is the legacy he would like to leave he played for Royal, in the years before and It’s never a case of easy-peasy. Never a Somachandra de Silva. Led the country behind, he was once asked. This is what he said: probably to this day. piece of cake. Never plain sailing. There are in two Tests and 13 ODIs “I look at it in the form of having done my The ephebic oath, written in the mid-Fourth rough seas. There are undercurrents. There are Retirement: In 1988 at the age of 29 job to the best of my ability. In that process Century BC and preserved on an inscription storms. There can even be torpedoes. Mutiny, ICC Match Referee: Became ICC Match if I have left the game better, I will sleep from Acharnae, was taken by young Athenians too. So, Ranjan seems to be saying, “retire Referee in 1993 and since 2001, serves well. I will always look at it as an absolute upon induction into the military academy, the illusions, young man!” In other words, be ready as the Chief of the panel of ICC Match privilege to be part of a great game, first as a Ephebic College, graduation from which was for setbacks. Be ready to change course. He Referees spectator, secondly as a player, for five years a precondition for being granted citizenship. doesn’t say “give up”. The journey teaches. as a national selector, then for a short period So much for “democracy” and “equality” in Destinations should be kept in sight. of the possible, but human history has shown as a commentator, and quite a bit as a referee. I the much-celebrated Grecian City! Not our No journey is planned. Well, what he probably that these limits are not cast in stone. They think I have been lucky to see the game evolve concern here. meant was that things don’t always pan out as are altered by effort. Determination. Love. from the 1970s till now. In the process, I have The oath contains the following line: “My Ranjan Madugalle. His life is his story and therein expected. It’s not a bad thing to have a plan, Commitment. They get you where you planned made friends on and off the field, which I value native land I will not leave a diminished heritage are lessons he need not spell out but don’t expect things to follow the script in to go and even beyond, regardless of constraints. and treasure.” but greater and better than when I received it.” your hand. Doesn’t happen that way. Ranjan Madugalle. His life is his story and universe. Cricket is a country, and one which The structure of the journey. You make your therein are lessons he need not spell out. Reminiscent of an oft-quoted oath No journey is planned he has graced with his presence, his heart, and, journey but not in the circumstances of your The writer can be reached at It reminds of the oft-quoted oath taken by the Ranjan is all Sri Lankan and all global most importantly, a mind of absolute clarity. choice. This doesn’t mean that you have no say [email protected] and www. young men of Athens, which, Ranjan would citizen or at least citizen of the cricketing Underlined with integrity. He has curated this in the matter. The structures set the parameters malindawords.blogspot.com