highlights tuesday 17 november 2020 Battling Smog Latest Edition to Prevent Vol: 09/276 Price : Rs 30.00 Covid Pandemic Spread In Sports Poor progress page A6 results in two athletes losing IOC Remittances funding continue Two track and field athletes, Vidusha Lakshani and Gayanthika to rise Abeyrathne, have been removed from the Sri Lanka’s... A16 page b11 COVID-19 Death Review Committee Bathiudeen Ordered hands over report Three deaths reported yesterday to Reforest Kallaru By Dilanthi Jayamanne, Gagani Weerakoon, Methmalie Dissanayake and Buddhika Samaraweera The COVID-19 death toll increased to 61 with the at Own Cost deaths of three persons which included an 84- year- old woman from Moratuwa, the Government Information Department, quoting the Director Court rules Forest Conservation Polluter pays General Health Services said. The Department said that the 84-year old from Ordinance contravened principle applied Moratuwa had died at her home due to complications from a diabetic condition arising as a result of COVID-19. The deaths also included that of a 70-year-old CG of Forests to Cost to be paid man from Colombo 10 who had been admitted to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID). The calculate cost and within two months cause of death was due to a chronic kidney disease aggravated by COVID-19, and a 75-year-old man from Colombo 13 who had died while being admitted inform Bathiudeen of judgment to the National Hospital due to complications arising from diabetes and congenital heart disease which By Faadhila Thassim and Eunice Forest Conservation Ordinance, is in was heightened by COVID-19. Ruth contravention of the Ordinance and The COVID-19 Death Review Committee handed therefore illegal. over its Preliminary report to the Director General The Court of Appeal yesterday (16) Bathiudeen, following a meeting held Health Services (DGHS), Dr. Asela Gunawardana ordered MP Rishad Bathiudeen to bear with the former Secretary to the Ministry yesterday (16). the cost of reforesting the Northern of Environment and Sustainable Energy, Sanctuary of the Wilpattu National Park the Director General of the Forest Story Continued on page 2 Forest Complex that was cleared for the Conservation Department and his resettlement of Internally Displaced officers, arrived at a decision to release Persons (IDPs). several such lands for the resettlement of Grade Five Scholarship Exam 2020 The Court ruled the settling of over IDPs while the Conservator General of 1,500 families in areas that have been Forests, K.G. Ariyadasa signed the Ten students score 200 declared as Forest Reserves, under the document containing the decision. By Thameenah Razeek Story Continued on page 2 Ten students scored the full marks in the Grade Five Scholarship Examination 2020, held across the 75th Budget after island on 11 October. Proposals for The students who scored 200 are: M.F. Mohamed Independence today Amar of Zahira College, Maradana; A.H. Sihath new Constitution Sandinu of the Pannipitiya Dharmapala College; By W. K. Prasad Manju Devli Yasasmi Tilakaratne of Sumangajothi Kanishta given to PM Vindyala, Ingiriya; M.D.H. Sasmitha Gunathilake of Minister of Bandaragama Central College,... The book containing alternative proposals Finance, Prime towards the formulation of a new Minister Mahinda Story Continued on page 2 Constitution was presented by Chairman of Rajapaksa, is to the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress (ACBC) present Budget Jagath Sumathipala to Prime Minister 2021 today at 1:40 Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday. p.m. It is based on UN rep meddling The book was presented to the Premier at building a new the latter’s Wijerama Mawatha residence in economy through in internal affairs the presence of the members of the Buddha ‘Vision of History created at SLAF Sasana Taskforce, Buddhist monks and Prosperity and officials from the ACBC. Splendour’. – Chandraratne Thera This is the 75th First female Budget to be By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan officers to be awarded presented in Parliament after Independence and the Ven. Jamburawela Chandraratne Thera, Flying Brevet Minister instructs 11th Budget Mahinda Rajapaksa is representing the People's Responsibility Centre presenting as Minister of Finance. (PRC), has criticised the United Nations (UN) Two female officers of the Sri Lanka Air The Government has planned to Resident Coordinator to Sri Lanka, Hanaa Singer for Force (SLAF) were commissioned as Pilots Give immunity include a number of proposals to her undue attempts to influence internal affairs of of the General Duties Pilot Branch for the strengthen the economy while granting Sri Lanka, by urging the Prime Minister to... first time in the history of the SLAF, at the boosting meds to benefits to the people at a time when the SLAF Academy in China Bay, yesterday prison staff, inmates country is facing challenges due to the Story Continued on page 2 (16). COVID-19 pandemic. Yesterday’s parade was handed over to By Kumudu Upul Shantha This Budget is said to pay more the newly-commissioned officers to attention to providing job... Deferred CHC cases command, and it marked the first instance in the history of the SLAF when a female State Minister of Prison Reforms and Story Continued on page 2 officer commanded a parade with the Prisoners’ Rehabilitation Dr. Sudarshani Court to fix new dates President’s Colours. Fernandopulle, yesterday instructed the Pilot Officer R.T. Weerawardana was the Prisons Department to take steps to provide Bathiudeen, By Hansi Nanayakkara first female officer to do so when she took immunity enhancing medicines to prison over the parade as the new Parade officers and inmates,tohelp them combat Haleem visited suspect The Colombo High Court (CHC), yesterday (16), Commander. the spread of COVID-19 within the prisons Ahamed’s house – GN decided to release fresh dates for cases that had Also, for the first time in the history of system. been deferred due to the impact of the ongoing the SLAF, Pilot Officer A.D.P.L. Gunaratne She had also ordered the Prisons By Buddhika Samaraweera COVID-19 pandemic. and Weerawardana became the first Department to initiate a probe into how the A Bench, which examined all postponed cases, female officers to be awarded the Flying pandemic had spread fast within the system Former Ministers Rishad Bathiudeen then ordered the Court Registrar to announce new Brevet. and forward a report on it to her. and Mohamed Haleem had on a number dates for the hearing of all cases which had been of occasions visited the house of delayed due to the pandemic crisis. Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Muhinuddin Ihsan Ahamed, who was The fresh dates for the deferred cases are to be arrested in connection with the 21 April displayed, as a notice, prominently for the public to 2019, Easter Sunday bombings. peruse, at the Court premises. This was revealed yesterday (16), when Mangroves must be protected – Premier Nilantha Sanjeewa Fonseka, the Grama Niladhari (GN) of the GN Division where Following instructions given Ihsan's house is located, testified before by Prime Minister Mahinda the Presidential Commission of Inquiry Rajapaksa, in his capacity as into the bombings. Paul Fernando Minister of Urban A State Counsel questioned the Development and Housing, a witness whether there was a person programme to grow saplings named Mohamed Hanifa Muhinuddin passes away at 68 adjacent to the lagoons in the living in the area where he was the GN. country, to protect mangroves, In reply, he said Muhinudeen was Popular singer Paul was launched. residing at Number 213/3, Galwala Fernando passed away at This programme was Road, Dehiwala. The witness said the age of 68 yesterday organised by the Marine Muhinuddin was living with his wife afternoon at the Kalubowila Environment Protection Ahmed Laseem Kariyapper Fatima Hospital while undergoing Authority (MEPA) under the Kariyapper, son Ihsan and daughter treatment for a longstanding supervision of State Minister Ahmed Dushra Islam. However, at the illness. of Coast Conservation, Dr. time of the bombings on 21 April 2019, Funeral arrangements are Nalaka Godahewa... they were living in house... to be announced later. Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 A2 Tuesday 17 November 2020 news Continued from page 1 Bathiudeen Ordered...

Justice Janak de Silva, in whether permanent or complex of the Madhu Road The Conservator General period of one month since Executive Director of the his decision, stated that temporary, or the occupation Sanctuary and the Madhu (CG) of the Forests, was notified, to make the Centre for Environmental Section 7 of the Forest of such buildings and the Road Forest Reserve, directed to calculate the cost payment. Justice, Hemantha Withanage Conservation Ordinance construction of any road. Bathiudeen was ordered to of replanting and inform Justice de Silva in his said that this would be a good prohibits several types of Thereby, considering the bear the full cost of replanting, Bathiudeen of the details of decision noted that while precedent against any illegal activity in Reserved Forests, illegal clearing and illegal applying the polluter pays the account to which the said there is no doubt that there is forest clearing, adding that including fresh clearing, resettling of encroachers in principle, as he was sum should be paid by him a need to settle IDPs, this is the estimated amount of land clearing or breaking up of any Maraichukkaddi – Karadikkuli instrumental in using the within two months of the date subject to other overriding in question cleared for such land for any other purpose, Northern Sanctuary of the forest land for the resettlement of the judgement following concerns and above all, the resettlement is up to 3,000 the erection of any building, Wilpattu National Park Forest of IDPs. which Bathiudeen has a respect for the rule of law. hectares.

COVID-19 Death...

Health Ministry sources said the Tissera. Dr. Herath said that 15 Intensive the first lot of Antigen Kits from the Police arrested the driver and National COVID-19 Death Audit They said the Committee had carried Care Units (ICUs) comprising a total World Health Organisation (WHO) conductor. Committee (DAC) comprising three- out an analysis by categorising the 143 beds were lined up to receive Resident Representative, Razia Pendse. DIG Rohana said action would be members had been appointed by the deaths. Also they had submitted COVID-19 patients. It is believed that the antigen test was taken against them according to Director General Health Services to certain proposals for the prevention of “There have been several issues speedier in giving test results of quarantine laws. review the COVID 19 deaths after 1 the disease. raised with regard to the consumption COVID-19 patients than its Peradeniya Police October 2020 in Sri Lanka. Health Promotion Bureau of fish following the emergence of the counterpart the PCR. The Committee was tasked with Peliyagoda COVID-19 cluster. In the 24 hours, from 14 to 15 COVID-19 infetion scrutinising all medical records and Meanwhile, addressing the Media at However, there is no need to fear November, 20 people had been ascertaining the cause of death for all the Health Promotion Bureau (HPB), consuming well cooked fish. Needless arrested for violating quarantine Meanwhile a Sub Inspector of the COVID-19 deaths in the country.Also Deputy Director General (Public to say however, with the COVID-19 regulations. Peradeniya Police was diagnosed with they were called upon to conduct a Health) Dr. Hemantha Herath said situation that has reached the Police Media Spokesman, DIG Ajith COVID-19 and had been admitted to ‘verbal autopsy with all stakeholders yesterday (16) that 13,787 COVID -19 Colombo city, people should be Rohana said the suspects were the Theldeniya Hospital on Saturday and determine the cause of death and patients have been reported from the conscious that the virus could be on arrested for not wearing face masks (14). subsequently analyse overall causes Minuwangoda Brandix facility and the any surface food or otherwise. Make and maintaining social distance. He is said to have been admitted to that lead to the deaths and report the Peliyagoda Fish Market from October sure to maintain hand hygiene and A total of 221 people have been the Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya with results to the DGHS. to date. wash any food item properly, especially arrested for violating quarantine fever when a PCR test had been carried Sources said the Committee was Dr. Herah said that of the 9,432 beds if they are fruits which cannot be regulations since 30 October. out on him. headed by the Director Primary Care in 58 treatment centres allocated to cooked,” he said. Meanwhile, a passenger bus Having diagnosed him to be a Services, Dr. Priyantha Athapattu, and COVID-19 patients, 6,494 were travelling in the Matugama area was COVID-19 patient on Sunday (15) he the other members were Chief Judicial currently occupied. There were another Antigen Kits Handed over seized since it had been running in was transferred to Theldeniya. Medical Officer Dr. Ajith Tennakoon 2,593 beds lined up to receive patients State Minister for Production, Supply violation of quarantine regulations. The Police Media Unit said that his and Consultant Community Physician as and when the necessity arises, he and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals, The bus was taken into Police custody contacts,which included five Epidemiology Unit, Dr. Hasitha noted. Prof. Channa Jayasumana received on information given by passengers. Policemen, had been quarantined.

Bathiudeen, Haleem...... bearing No. 211/8, about 50 had visited the house. named Wuhari Mohamed Rafiq was from the State Counsel as to whether Secretary to the Ministry of Industry metres away from the house at 213/3, He also said that Ihsan had gone to a also arrested, he said. Bathiudeen had visited the house at and Commerce Ranjith Asoka and Fonseka said, and added that they had Thowheed Jama’at mosque in the area Dhammika Priyantha any time, Samarasinghe said that he then Additional Secretary to the been living in the house on a rent basis for religious observances. There are Samarasinghe, the owner of the house had seen Bathiudeen leaving the Ministry of Industry and Commerce as their permanent house was being two mosques in the area. One of them, where Ihsan and his family had lived house about two days after Ihsan's J.M.S.N. Jayasinghe. renovated. the Thowheed Jama’at mosque where on rent also testified before the arrest on 26 April 2019. The witness The lawyer representing Bathiudeen He further said he had received Ihsan had gone for religious Commission yesterday. said that Bathiudeen had spent about was given the opportunity by the information that Ihsan had had observances, has caused various He said that the house, which 30 minutes in the house. Commission to cross-examine the various discussions with the youths problems on a number of occasions, he belonged to his wife, was rented out to Meanwhile, Inspector of Police (IP) witness, said that there were no during his stay in the house. The said. Ihsan's father. However, Samarasinghe Samantha Jayamahamudali, who is questions to be raised. However, he witness also said that while studying Meanwhile, the State Counsel said that he came to know about Ihsan attached to the Commission's requested the Commission to provide at a private university, Ihsan had been inquired as to whether any other only after he (Ihsan) was arrested in Investigation Unit, also gave evidence him with an opportunity to seek working for a private institution. persons residing in the area in addition connection with the Easter Sunday before the Commission yesterday. instructions from his client, When queried by a Member of the to Ihsan, were arrested in connection bombings. When a Member of the He said that he had recorded a Bathiudeen, since he is currently in Commission whether any information with the Easter Sunday bombings. Commission questioned as to who had statement from Muhinuddin and remand custody. had been revealed about the people Responding, the witness said that two come to meet Ihsan, the witness said Ihsan. Accordingly, the Chairman of the who had visited their house, the brothers, Mohamed Akram Awkam that various youths had come during He said that he had obtained a Commission directed the Secretary to witness said that he had received and Mohamed Akram Sajiha, who the night and had discussions with report regarding the official vehicles the Commission to look into the legal information that Bathiudeen and were residents of the area, were Ihsan. used by Bathiudeen, former State possibility of it and to make necessary Haleem and some other dignitaries arrested. In addition, another suspect Meanwhile, in response to a question Minister Buddhika Pathirana, then arrangements in that regard.

First female... Ten students score... At the event, Weerawardana was awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ presented by Group Captain N.R. Raheem. This is ... Kalutara; S.D. Siyathi of marks obtained by the scholarships are allocated to Trincomalee and Nuwara Eliya. the first occasion in the history of the SLAF that a female Vithumsa of Sanghamitta candidate, the district and the students with special needs. The cut-off mark for Sinhala officer has been awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’. Balika Vidyalaya, Galle; W.W.A. medium. The cut-off mark according to medium students is 157 in Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Major General Thasindu Kavishan of Tangalle The results were released on the district basis for Sinhala Vavuniya and Mullaitivu. (Retired) Kamal Gunaratne, attended the event as the Chief Model Primary School, 15 November and the medium students is 169 in Cut-off marks according to Guest. Kadurupokuna; P.K. Dovindu Department of Examinations Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, the District basis for Tamil Chiranjith of President's released the cut-off marks for Kandy, Matale, Galle, Matara, medium students are as Central College, Embilipitiya; the selection of students to Kurunegala and Kegalle. follows: 162 (Colombo, H.M. Senudi Damsara of schools and the awarding of The cut-off mark for Sinhala Gampaha, Kalutara, Kandy, Eheliyagoda Primary School; scholarships. medium students is 163 in Matale, Galle, Matara, H.M. Thenuja Manumitha The Examination was held on Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala and Kegalle), 160 Give immunity... Bandara of Siripura Primary 11 October. The Department Polonnaruwa and Badulla. (Hambantota, Jaffna, School, Polonnaruwa; and stated that 331,741 students For Ratnapura and Killinochchi, Vavunya, The State Minister had also ordered the Prisons Yehara Yethmini Epa of Girls' had applied for the Hambantota, the cut-off marks Mullaitivu, Batticaloa and Commissioner General to subject inmates to PCR tests, at a High School, Kandy. Examination and 326,264 are 165 and 164, respectively. Ampara), 159 (Polonnaruwa, separate location, before they are sent to their cells. The island ranks and district students had sat for the Also, the cut-off mark Badulla and Trincomalee), 158 Dr. Fernandopulle had further instructed that all inmates ranks are not published yet. Examination. according to the district basis (Nuwara Eliya, Mannar, who are released on bail should be forced to undergo the The results are released along According to the results, for Sinhala medium students is Anuradhapura and Ratnapura), 14-day quarantine programme at their homes and to inform with the relevant cut-off marks 20,000 students will receive 162 in Moneragala and Ampara 157 (Puttalam) and 155 this to all Police stations through the Acting IGP. according to the total number scholarships. Out of these, 250 while 161 is the cut-off mark in (Moneragala).

UN rep meddling... 75th Budget...... change the decision of Rajapaksa to allow the Muslims situation, Buddhists, Hindus, each country separately, after ... opportunities through the Colombo Port City project, cremating the bodies of Muslims who die due to the Virus to be Catholics and the vast majority analysing the factors unique to setting up several main factories, providing permanent dying of COVID-19. buried and not to cremated of Muslims have accepted the the local setting and further solutions to areas where drinking water problems exist, PRC representatives yesterday against their wish. decisions and compromised said, there is no discrimination developing rural roads including the construction of visited the UN office in Colombo Singer said, the common their religious rights. to the Muslim community or 100,000 kilometres of roadway and providing a sustainable and handed over the petition assumption that people who died They said, Singer’s statement any other group in the solution to the human-elephant conflict. opposing Singer's intervention in of a communicable disease is not acceptable and that she Government's decision on the Meanwhile, the Budget debate will be held under strict Sri Lanka's affairs. should be cremated to prevent should not influence the disposal of COVID-19 infected health guidelines and voting on the Second Reading is Recently, she raised concerns spread is not supported by Government to change its bodies. scheduled to be held on 10 December. over the Health Ministry claim evidence. Instead, cremation is a decisions without any rational This will also give undue that cremation is the only matter of cultural choice and basis. influence and more energy to method for the disposal of bodies available resources, she added. The monk also said, they have Islamist extremists, they suspected of COVID-19 infected. The PRC stated, the raised serious concerns as to claimed. They urged the UN top Singer in the letter stated, Government decided to cremate whether she has been influenced official to avoid exerting such Mangroves must... across the world, the safe and bodies of COVID-19 victims on by Islamist extremists. unethical influence on the dignified handling of those the recommendation of the The UN office should respect Government which will seriously ... and Secretary to the Ministry of Urban Development patients whose lives have been expert committee appointed by the sovereignty and integrity of damage the image of the UN. and Housing,Sirinimal Perera. tragically claimed by this Virus the Ministry of Health and that our country, they stated. The letter was signed by the The Premier has instructed the MEPA to take all has been an important part of the decision to cremate the They reiterated that the World PRC Convener Wasantha Alwis measures to protect the marine environment while the COVID-19 response. bodies was uniform to all citizens Health Organization has clearly too. They also informed safeguarding the mangrove area of 15,669 hectares. However, the monk said, they irrespective of their religion, mentioned in their guidelines on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa MEPA Chairman Darshani Lahandupura said strongly object to her views race, ethnicity or any other the disposal of COVID-19 dead and the Minister of Foreign mangrove saplings will be planted to mark the first which she had expressed in her difference. Considering the bodies that the methodology of Affairs Dinesh Gunawardena anniversary in office of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa letter to Prime Minister Mahinda gravity of the COVID-19 disposal needs to be decided by about their objections. shortly. News Tuesday 17 November 2020 A3 AFTA up in arms NTC to Hound against hostel takeover Claim land grab around Uni premises Overcharging The Arts Faculty Teachers’ relevant student and staff all unjust attempts to encroach Association (AFTA) of the bodies have not been duly on and acquire the properties Colombo University has consulted in the process. of the University in ensuring written to Prime Minister Meanwhile, the Federation of the best interests of all who will Mahinda Rajapaksa regarding University Teacher’s be affected by any adverse the Urban Development Associations (FUTA), issuing a course of action by the State’. Bus Owners Authority’s (UDA) decision to statement in this regard, noted The Federation also By Thameenah Razeek health guidelines. take the 2.5 acre land where that the academic activities of condemned the unauthorized Meanwhile, the State Minister of Transport the Muttiah Road hostel for the University are being carried access to properties of the The National Transport Commission (NTC) Dilum Amunugama requested passengers to women and disabled students out with very limited hostel University of Ruhuna. initiated the filing of charges against bus lodge complaints in this connection. is located. facilities in the face of the ‘A group led by a Member of owners who charge more than the fares set by “A system is introduced to charge a fee for Expressing concern over the increasing number of new the Matara Municipal Council the Government. each route and that it is the responsibility of UDA’s move in their letter, the students enrolled annually and had illegally and forcefully In the backdrop of receiving complaints from the conductor to issue tickets to passengers, as Association urged the Premier the ever-growing demand for entered the Wellamadama passengers, over being charged more than the not issuing tickets is a serious offence. We also to reconsider this decision to hostel facilities from the premises of the University on 7 stipulated bus fares, the Director General of the urge the passenger to note down the bus immediately seize the Muttiah student population who are November. They bulldozed the NTC, Commander (Retired) Nilan Miranda number of every bus they travel in. If there are Road hostel. facing severe problems due to land between the yesterday (16) said that they have already any allegations of overcharging or the non- The Muttiah Road hostel is a the lack of University hostel Rabindranath Tagor suspended the route licence of such buses, issuance of tickets, we request the public to call permanent hostel of the accommodation. Auditorium and the Bachelors’ adding that some of them have not even issued the 119 Police Emergency Hotline or the NTC by University of Colombo housing Similarly, it has come to our Quarters and destroyed the a ticket to the passenger. dialling 1995 immediately,” he said. In more than 550 female students notice that the State Ministry coastal vegetation to make an He said that the NTC deployed a separate addition, the NTC has introduced an app titled including disabled students, of Skills Development, access road to the beach. A team to conduct raids on buses to see if the ‘Bad Bus’, which permits passengers to lodge the majority of whom are from Vocational Education, case has been filed (Police crew were charging extra and not issuing complaints. If the passengers send the the Faculty of Arts. The hostel Research and Innovations is complaint number tickets, adding that their officials will also see registration number of any such bus and the has also been recently attempting to acquire land of CIB5297/46) at the Matara if passengers are adhering to the required routes, the NTC will take action without delay. renovated by the University to the University around the Police Station on 7 November provide better access to Planetarium on Bauddhaloka in this regard. We urge the disabled students. Mawatha, Colombo 7, the relevant authorities to The Association also noted Federation pointed out. immediately take legal action that no other hostel facility has ‘The entire State university against those who violated the Proposal to prevent export been provided and that the system will intervene to defeat law’. Precious metal in e-waste to be used in SL By Thameenah Razeek Although electric and electronic waste collection weeks have been implemented in the Cyprus Social Security Fund The Minister of Environment Mahinda recent past, these programmes have been Amaraweera intends to submit a proposal to somewhat successful only in the Western formulate a programme to remove and recycle Province. But in other parts of the island it is ‘Ethera Api’ calls for State precious metal parts in electronic waste reported that these discarded electronic without exporting them. equipment have been discarded in vain. Currently, about 28 private sector Amaraweera noted that therefore it is intervention to release monies companies registered under the Central possible to remove these precious metal parts, Environmental Authority are informally use them for the needs of the country and The Secretary of the ‘Ethera collecting and recycling e-waste from various burn the remaining parts without exporting Api’ organisation, Lakshman locations and exporting it for recycling. them. He also added that he will discuss with Nipunarachchi claimed that Several Japanese companies, in particular, other authorities and lawmakers in this the Government has not taken purchase the waste to remove the high-value regard. any action to get the Cyprus metal parts it contains. Printed Circuit Board, “Large quantities of e-waste accumulated in Fund to Sri Lanka. especially those included in computers and homes that can pose huge health problems are He was speaking at a Media televisions, contains very precious metals increasing since no adequate steps were taken briefing on 15 November. such as gold and platinum. to dispose of them properly,” he added. “One of the major problems facing Sri Lankans abroad is the difficulty in obtaining the Cyprus Social Security Fund. The Fund is a post- employment Fund for Sri Lankans working in Cyprus and 7.5 per cent of the salaries of Sri Lankan employees working in Cyprus and 7.5% from the employers are credited to this Fund. Rs 3 million. There are about of foreign workers are unable Altogether 15% is added 150,000 persons who should to come to this country. The monthly. But no one who receive this money,” he added. Government does not have a worked in Cyprus has They urged the President formal programme to bring received this money yet. No and the relevant Ministers to them back. Some of their one else can take it. We have hold a discussion to take employment contracts have told this problem to all appropriate action to solve expired and there are a large Governments, former and this issue. number of workers whose present, but no necessary Meanwhile, the Financial employment contracts have diplomatic measures have Secretary of the organization, terminated during the period been taken. A diplomatic deal Attorney Janaka Adhikari from March to October. They has to be made to get it. Every claimed that the problems of will have to pay a fine for Minister in charge of Foreign the Sri Lankans overseas have staying without a visa. There Affairs has been informed become a business venture to are many complaints that the about this issue. This is a very make money for Government Government is not intervening large sum of money. Some associates. in their problems,” he people have to receive around “At present, a large number claimed.

Social Media rumour mongering being dealt with Wash used gloves, Another face masks before 28-year-old discarding - CEA arrested from By Thameenah Razeek In the backdrop of the Central Environmental Authority formulating a set of guidelines to be followed Kandy in the disposal of clinical waste, health officials urged By Thameenah Razeek the users to wash the used face masks and gloves with soap and thoroughly dry before disposal. Another suspect has been arrested for Health officials have warned that used face masks spreading fake rumours via social media and gloves can contain COVID-19, which has a high that a large number of COVID-19 infected possibility of entering the environment when persons are collapsing on the streets and discarded. In discussions with environmentalists and have died. experts with extensive knowledge in this regard, it was The 28-year-old, a resident of Kandy was emphasized that no hygienic advice is followed when arrested from Hantana and will be disposing of masks and gloves currently in use. produced in Court. The other thing is that a soap or alcohol-based A 35-year-old resident also from Kandy cleanser should be used. The only thing that happens was arrested previously and he is there is releasing the Virus to the environment which currently in remand custody until can then enter the water and eventually enter the tomorrow (18). human body through the water, Minister of Pointing out that the suspect will be Environment Mahinda Amaraweera said. charged under the Quarantine Rules and Therefore, the unsafe disposal of disposable gloves Regulations and the Penal Code, Police and masks is creating serious environmental as well as Spokesman, Deputy Inspector General of public health problems, said Amaraweera. Police Ajith Rohana refuted claims on He said that at present three aspects are being social media platforms alleging that people considered in the disposal of COVID-19 waste. were collapsing on the streets due to These include COVID-19 infected, quarantined COVID-19. homes, and masks and gloves used by the public to Meanwhile, DIG Rohana said that the protect themselves. Patients who are diagnosed with only death among fatalities recorded thus the infection and those who have been quarantined are far in the island which occurred on a road, required to dispose of their clinical waste in a yellow was of a beggar who did not have shelter. bag and urge local authorities not to recycle it in any “The public should refrain from way. However, there is a need for a broader discourse spreading misinformation on social media regarding the disposal of clinical contaminants, and platforms”. DIG Rohana said that all the use of these masks and gloves and how to dispose perpetrators will be arrested and produced of them should be emphasized in order to prevent the in Court. virus spreading. A4 tuesday 17 november 2020 news Self- quarantine households NMCRP to take CEA issues guidelines CEA to task The National waste, the NMCRP has Movement for Consumer requested the DG of the Rights Protection CEA to inform the (NMCRP) which has Government to dispose on disposing solid waste described the remains of those bodies in the persons who die from manner used to dispose COVID-19 as falling hazardous waste as the By Eunice Ruth Administration, Home Affairs, subjected to quarantine and above, elderly persons and within the definition of said Act clearly states as Provincial Councils and Local immediately inform the those infected with chronic hazardous waste, has to how hazardous waste The Central Environmental Government and its affiliate respective Local Body to diseases will not be allowed to warned that they will should be destroyed. Authority (CEA) has issued institutions, facilitated by the provide those locations with work). Labourers will be take legal action against The letter states that interim guidelines for solid resources of the Ministry of proper waste handling and provided with personal the Central at present, controversy waste management by Health and Ministry of Defence. disposing guidelines, she protective equipments and they Environmental Authority has arisen regarding the households and places where This method has been noted. The collected waste will will supply appropriate waste (CEA) if they take steps cremation of persons individuals are under self- introduced to minimise labour be categorised into different collection bags to households to dispose of hazardous who die due to COVID- quarantine due to COVID-19. involvement and the risk sections before disposing them. under quarantine, she said. waste in a manner that 19 as opposed to The Media Officer of the CEA, involved in the collection, Also, she noted that a separate Lokuliyana further noted that violates the National exercising burial also as Sriyanjani Lokuliyana, noted transport and disposal of vehicle will be used for this all such collected waste will be Environmental Act. an option and that it that Local Authorities will be waste, she said. process and the crew assigned burnt, adding that it is Writing to the Director seems that the in-charge of the execution of As the first step, the area to implement the process are important to use thermal General (DG) of the CEA Government is preparing operations in this regard, under Medical Officer of Health will also given guidelines (those treatment methods to dispose in connection with the to take a decision in this the Ministry of Public identify households and places who are 60-years-old and the waste. disposal of hazardous regard.

Total rock requirement for this stage was only 7% of total CPRP writes to President Right of Reply annual production capacity of the licensed quarries in the Wants all prisoners to have PCR tests CHEC Colombo Port City (Pvt) Conservation Department Colombo and Gampaha Ltd wishes to clarify its position granted approval for stage 1 of districts. Port City only Bt Ruwan Laknath However, he opined that spread of COVID-19 owing regarding an article published construction with 72 strict purchased rocks from quarries Jayakody due to the congestion within to the heavy congestion on page A4 of the Ceylon Today conditions. Port City was the approved and monitored by the prisons, it should be within prisons. Also, owing newspaper on 10th November only project that went through Geological Survey and Mines The Committee for assumed that all inmates to the fact that there are 2020 in the News section under around-the clock monitoring Bureau (GSMB) and having Protecting the Rights of and officials within them are minimal sanitation the heading ‘CPC to blame for during the sand dredging period valid Environment Protection Prisoners (CPRP) has written exposed to or infected with facilities such as toilets coastal degradation’. of Oct 2016 to Jan 2019. To Licence (EPL). Any interested to President Gotabaya COVID-19 or are at risk of available for the use of a The article mentions that Port date, the relevant government parties are welcome to verify Rajapaksa requesting that exposure or contraction. large number of prisoners, City is the ‘major reason for agencies continue to monitor with GSMB whether there were polymerase chain reaction Therefore, it is apt to it is evident that the coastal degradation in the mitigation and environment significant increase of rock (PCR) tests be conducted on conduct PCR tests on all environment within prisons Negombo’ and further states it related issues management demand or additional quarries all inmates of prisons island- inmates and officers in all is one which is extremely has ‘heavily impacted in places process of Port City. No sand being opened only to serve Port wide and their Prisons prisons, he said. ‘The conducive for the spread of in Angulana, Mount Lavinia, dredging was taken place after City during last 5 years. Department officers, in order COVID-19 pandemic is COVID-19,’ the letter Chilaw, Puttalam and could in completion of reclamation in Port City Colombo is the to ascertain their COVID-19 spreading fast within the further observed. future, impact even up to January 2019. single largest foreign direct status. prisons system. Recent Copies of the letter were Mannar”. These baseless The writer continues to state investment project up-to-date Chairman of the prisoners’ protests are due also sent to the State allegations are neither backed that “if sand mining is in Sri Lanka with an investment Committee, Attorney Senaka to there not being an Minister of Prison Reforms by scientific findings or conducted on a portion of the of US$ 1.4 billion. Port City Perera, speaking to Ceylon adequate programme to and Prisoners’ research or factual data. The Ocean, it needs to be filled up Colombo has won multiple Today, claimed that the protect them from COVID- Rehabilitation, the writer further mentions that he from other portion of the Ocean accolades for planning, authorities were selecting 19. It has become difficult Commissioner General of had contacted the Convener of in order to balance the marine landscape and most recently for prisons, inmates and to implement the health Prisons and the Human the Rainforest Protectors Sri environment, said Wijesinghe.” excellence in construction staffers at random in order advice given with regard to Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, Jayantha Wijesinghe, This statement shows the lack awarded by ENR Global Best to conduct PCR tests. the prevention of the Lanka. for an interview on this topic. of knowledge on sand dredging Project 2020 one of the most The writer goes on to mention and reformation in the deep globally respected construction that “proper Environmental sea. Mathematical modelling related news media based out of Impact Assessment Tests” were based on the facts on wave and USA. Port City Colombo is not carried and that Port City sea current movement were poised to serve as a regional has “not published any sources taken prior to sand dredging in hub for business services and Seek public views on new for the reference of the public”, order to analyse, monitor and financial services attracting and also mentions that Port prevent any adverse effect. The regional offices and City has utilized “soil dumping”. Lanka Hydraulic Institute (LHI) headquarters of international Constitution – PAFFREL This too is untrue. Port City which is the only leading and global entities. In achieving only used sea sand for institute in Sri Lanka that is the vision for Port City Colombo, Executive Director of the alternative ideologies. In a mechanism at the District reclamation and was not involved in coastal mapping, it will further attract US$ 15 People’s Action for Free and drafting the Constitution, level to facilitate people to involved in any soil dumping. sea wave pattern monitoring, billion investments to the Fair Elections (PAFFREL), the views and aspirations of express their views. As the Further, Port City has and all marine related country. Colombo Port City Rohana Hettiarachchi on 15 every group should be process of typing and undergone several engineering and research. LHI would also provide 83,000 November forwarded a letter represented and the sending public views is a Environmental Impact was a consultant agency of Port employment opportunities for to the Experts Committee to legitimacy of a Constitution complex task for certain Assessment Reports (not tests, City from its inception and was the future generations and help Draft a New Constitution on is achieved through such groups, we suggest that it as stated) which are all public further involved with the EIA retaining Sri Lankan talent the need to obtain public broad public participation. should be facilitated in a documents and accessible via reports and post monitoring within the country. Recognising views on its drafting. We propose that a manner that is convenient to the Coast Conservation work as well. Moreover, Port this national importance, Port PAFFREL has drawn the comprehensive publicity them. In particular, it would Department (CCD) and the City closely worked with the City Colombo has been gazetted attention of the Committee campaign should be be more effective to contact Central Environmental National Aquatic Research as a National priority project to eight facts including launched to encourage the the Committee and Authority (CEA), as per the EIA Agency (NARA) during the EIA under the direct supervision of drafting a Constitution that public to comment on the introduce several telephone regulations. These EIAs were and presently as well. Port City the Presidential Secretariat. prioritises the aspirations of Constitution, as at present numbers to assist persons published in all three languages spends nearly LKR 60 million We request that you forthwith the people with a long-term the primary focus of the who need any clarifications. and kept open for public annually for all environmental publish the above clarifications vision, regardless of political public has been towards the The Committee should comments for 30 working days monitoring and research work in the next following newsprint party aspirations or political COVID-19 pandemic. also focus on the possibility in 11 major government offices being carried out by these giving the same prominence as issues that exist at a As the last date for public of using video technology for related to the project in agencies. that given to the above particular moment. views is 30 November, the the convenience of the vast Colombo and Gampaha The article further quoted captioned article. The letter has further Committee should focus on majority of people who use Districts and published on the Wijesinghe, stating that “in Furthermore, we would also highlighted that the taking steps to provide a technological tools in the official websites of CCD and order to construct buildings, like to express our appreciation legislative process should be reasonable and adequate new environment,” the letter CEA. All public concerns granite cut down from the you and Ceylon Today, for the conducted in such a way period for that to take place added. The letter further submitted in writing were Western Province has indirectly continuous support and fair that the rights of all as the time given for the emphasises that it is the answered and a comprehensive impacted the natural reserves publicity given to Port City communities are protected. public to have their say is primary responsibility of all report was submitted before the as it reduces mountainous Colombo project, considering it “The committee should not sufficient due to the citizens to help to make a Technical Evaluation area”. This too was a baseless as a national and futuristic focus on the formulation of a spread of the pandemic in new Constitution that Committee. Considering the allegation. Port City at this project throughout the past and Constitution that is the country. represents their aspirations public comments and technical stage only used rock materials look forward the same support acceptable to all, with Additionally, attention by learning from the past evaluations, the Coast for breakwater construction. in the years to come. adequate room for should be paid to setting up experiences.

Peliyagoda’s new Sales centre in Polonnaruwa Northern fishers stalls for Manning for rural industrialists vital allowed to harvest – Ranaweera Market stall owners Sea Cucumber State Minister of Cane, Brass, Clay, Furniture By Keerthi Mendis Market Public Trade It is the responsibility of the Northern fishers to and Rural Industry Association, Gamini sever physical contact with Indian fishers, the Promotion, Prasanna It is reported that Handunge said that Fisheries Ministry, quoting Minister Douglas Ranaweera instructed to arrangements have been traders who maintained Devananda, said on 14 November. identify a suitable made to offer the trade stalls in the Manning This announcement was made in the backdrop of location and to stalls constructed in the Market registered under curbing the spread of COVID-19. immediately construct a new trade zone in the Colombo Municipal Devananda had further said that he was local productions sales Peliyagoda to the trade Council will receive new rescinding his previous order, which banned centre in Polonnaruwa meeting held on 10 the setting up of new stall owners of the Colombo stalls in the new trade zone Northern fishers from harvesting sea cucumber, as a solution to the November at the industrial zones in the Pettah Manning Market, in Peliyagoda. made in order to check the spread of this pandemic. marketing problem of Polonnaruwa District Dimbulagala and through a chosen system of Sources said that This revocation is effective since yesterday (16). rural industrialists. Secretariat. Welikanda areas and the drawing lots. farmers faced difficulties Devananda has informed the Assistant Directors He also said that Attention was paid to establishment of a sub An officer of a related with the Manning Market of the Fisheries Department, serving in the North, permission will be the provision of capital office of the National association said that these being closed for nearly about the rescinding order. granted to transport loans and the setting up Gem and Jewellery trade stalls will be offered three weeks and were However, the harvesting of sea cucumber by three clay cubes under a of Vidatha centres for the Authority in the Elahera to the stall owners who selling their products to scuba diving and using cylinders is banned. Permits permit issued by the Elahera, Dimbulagala area. engaged in wholesale and other economic centres, at issued allowing Northern fishers to harvest sea Divisional Secretary, for and Welikanda It was also noted that retail businesses of low prices. cucumber in their waters have specified that such use as raw material in Divisional Secretariats all Government vegetable and fruits, after It has been announced illegal harvesting of sea cucumber is banned. the pottery industry. and the provision of an institutions in the gathering them separately. that the Peliyagoda trade The Ministry, however, said that fishing in He said this during the office and officers for the District should be Around 1,260 trade stall zone will be opened for COVID-19 quarantine areas was banned. 'Local Production National Crafts Council brought together at a owners will receive new trading activities on 20 (PA and ER) Industries Development in the Polonnaruwa future date to study the stalls. November, with parking Committee' for the District. In addition, progress of the decisions Secretary of the Manning facilities. Polonnaruwa District attention was drawn to taken. news tuesday 17 november 2020 A5

Lankans stranded abroad Govt keen to plug in Repatriation process highly suspicious – Harini By Gagani Weerakoon renewable energy – Dullas and Methmalie boarding places and Dissanayake hostels. “There is a very The objective of the opened in Mannar. questionable situation Government of Sri Lanka He further said that the aim Jathika Jana Balawegaya regarding the lack of food (GoSL) is to wean the country of this Government is to Parliamentarian Dr. Harini and relief services available away from diesel electricity increase the renewable energy Amarasuriya, on 13 for them. When I inquired production to renewable generation capacity to meet 70 November, claimed in about this from the BoI, energy (RE) when meeting its per cent of the total electricity Parliament that the manner they said that this was electricity requirements, requirements by 2030. in which the repatriation entirely under the Minister Energy Minister Dullas He also said that another process of Sri Lankans, who of Tourism Prasanna Alahapperuma, speaking at objective is to increase the are stranded in foreign Ranatunga,” she added. the Polonnaruwa District electricity coverage to reach countries, is conducted, is “I have another question Secretariat on 9 November, 100% of the population by 16 highly suspicious. as well. Is the bag of goods said. November. Participating in the really worth Rs 5,000? The He said that the GoSL will Alahapperuma added that Adjournment Debate on the bag contains one kilo of increase the number of most of the hydroelectricity COVID-19 outbreak, Dr. dhal, five kilos of rice, households in Polonnaruwa resources have been tapped Amarasuriya said that 95 sprats and sugar.” receiving solar electricity, ie by now. Under these deaths of Sri Lankans In response, Ranatunga from outside the national grid, conditions, it’s important to overseas have been reported said that the BoI workers do from the current figure of 193 reason why currently a total of fact that Polonnaruwa is rich tap other renewable sources of thus far. not get the essential pack to 3,000 by next year. He said 1,359 families in the with sunlight, he said. energy such as solar and wind “Many Sri Lankans in worth Rs 5,000. They only that some of the areas in Polonnaruwa District were Alahapperuma also said electricity which are cheap foreign countries are get the essential pack given Polonnaruwa were outside the devoid of electricity. This is that next month (December), a and environmentally friendly. suffering due to the COVID- by the factories, he added. reach of the national grid, a disappointing considering the wind electricity plant will be (PA) 19 situation. The way the “I receive letters about the repatriation process is matter you’ve raised. The implemented to rescue permanent BoI employees them, is highly suspicious. who cannot go home will We have to think about their receive their free food Shutting down well-being as they also are packages from their Pettah Manning Market Lions donate PPE kits citizens of this country,” she employer. As for the pointed out. manpower staff, we are Dr. Amarasuriya also said trying our best to provide Vegetable that they cannot be satisfied essential items through the with the relief measures Divisional Secretariats. In distribution available for the workers addition to that, pregnant attached to the Board of mothers will receive two scuttled – Kaviratne Investments (BoI) factories essential goods packages as who are currently living in well,” Ranatunga said. Samagi Jana Balawegaya Parliamentarian Rohini Kaviratne claimed that owing to the decision taken to shutdown the Manning Market in Pettah, the entire vegetable distribution network had got scuttled. Govt should take Kaviratne charged that certain politicians and businessmen with vested interests in Dambulla are continuing to responsibility for use the fluctuating situation with regard nd to the vegetable business for their personal COVID-19 2 wave gains. The District 306 B 2 Lions Club on 14 November handed over 1,350 personal protective By Gagani Weerakoon She also alleged that President Gotabaya equipment (PPE) kits and 25 washing machines to the Ministry of Health. District Rajapaksa too had not been able to and Methmalie – Bandara Secretary of District 306 B 2 Lions Club, Lion Anura Dissanayake, and Senior Coordinator Dissanayake overcome the vegetable mafia in the said Lion, Gerald Caldera, handed over the donation to Health Secretary, Major General Services, Dr. Anil Jasinghe areas. Sanjeewa Munasinghe recently from his post and he was Samagi Jana Balawegaya then sent to the Parliamentarian Nalin Environment Ministry. Bandara, on 13 November, Now, none of the phone stressed that the lines introduced by him are Government should be held working. This Government SL sends 67 soldiers Expect thundershowers in completely responsible for never gives any prominence the second wave of the for those who are talented to South Sudan next few days – Meteorologist COVID-19 pandemic because and are capable of making a the reason for it was the positive change. The same By Naalir Jamaldeen Saliheen cautioned of inactiveness of the thing happened in the and Nabiya Vaffoor possible temporary heavy Government. Cabinet of Ministers too. winds and lightning strikes Moving an Adjournment The Government did not The Meteorology during the thundershowers Motion on the COVID-19 give the Education Department yesterday (16) and advised all to refrain situation, Bandara alleged Minister’s post to Dullas predicted that owing to the from using electronic gadgets that there are many Alahapperuma. They put prevailing inclement weather especially mobile phones anomalies in the tender him in charge of Power and conditions in the vicinity of during such times. process for importing rapid Energy and appointed Sri Lanka, showers or He added, showers or antigen test kits. “The Minister Dr. Bandula thundershowers could thundershowers could occur Government has put the Gunawardana as the Trade develop during the next few in the evening or night in National Medicines Minister,” he stressed. By Paneetha Ameresekere days in the morning in most many places in the shallow Regulatory Authority aside The Government has places in the Northern, and deep seas surrounding now. The Government must failed to ensure the safety of The seventh Army Peacekeeping Contingent, comprising 67 Eastern and North Central the island while they could look into the malpractices frontline workers in this soldiers, the bulk of whom are from the Army Medical Corps, Provinces and after 2 p.m. in develop in the morning in the which have allegedly pandemic, specially the bound for the United Nations (UN) Peace-Keeping Mission in other parts of the country. Northern and Eastern seas. occurred in the import of the health sector workers, he South Sudan’s Level-Two Hospital (UNMISS), on the eve of their Senior Meteorologist The wind speed is expected rapid antigen test kits,” he claimed. “Health sector departure presented a ceremonial salute to the Army Mohammed Saliheen to be above 78 to 80 said. workers have not been given Commander, Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, at the predicted, showers above 100 kilometres per hour in the “The Government has proper masks. What is this Medical Corps Regimental Headquarters grounds in Werahera millimetres could be expected event of thundershowers failed in controlling the Government doing? They on 13 November. in a few places in the accompanied by heavy winds second wave of COVID-19. are making money out of Meanwhile, the sixth Sri Lankan contingent already serving Sabaragamuwa and Western and in such circumstances, After controlling the first the situation while the the UN assignment in South Sudan is expected to return home Provinces and the Galle and those seas could remain wave, they removed the then people are dying in their shortly soon after the completion of their tenure of service in Matara Districts. turbulent, Saliheen added. Director General of Health homes,” he alleged. accordance with the provisions of the UN. Silva reminded the Peacekeeping Mission of the importance of maintaining the highest level of discipline while serving, and their commitment to the role and tasks in South Sudan. The South Sudan bound seventh contingent, commanded by Foreign employment Colonel Roshan Jayamanna, comprises four medical specialists, four medical officers, a dentist, seven administrative officers, 41 Medical Corps other ranks including SL continues to face numerous challenges ward in-charge, nurses, critical care nurses (gynaecological), operation theatre technician, physiotherapist/s, radiographer, Foreign Minister Dinesh – Dinesh X-ray technician, dental assistant, dental technician, medical Gunawardena stated that Sri storeman, pharmacist, pharmacy technician, lab technician, lab Lanka continues to face a these overseas Sri Lankans 19. Our labour migrants are technologists, Command Sergeant Major, Company Quarter number of challenges in the work in the Middle Eastern facing the loss of employment Master Sergeant, hygiene assistant, administration clerk, cooks, field of foreign employment region. “Sri Lanka has and the reduction of earnings. ambulance drivers, sanitary duty man, mortuary attendant and such as the concentration of hitherto repatriated over We have witnessed a decline nine other ranks from the Signal Corps, Corps of Engineer labour migration in low skilled 40,000 Sri Lankans, including in the outbound travel of Service and the Army Service Corps. categories dominated by 17,861 migrant workers from labour migrants by 57.2 per female workers with the Middle Eastern alone. Sri cent in the first half of 2020 associated issues of Lanka launched the ‘Contact compared to the first half of protection, low remuneration, Sri Lanka’ web portal to gather 2019. This stands out in and the narrow range of data on the requirements of comparison to around destinations with high these workers. We currently 200,000 Sri Lankans who SL Embassy in Vietnam dependence. have over 98,000 Sri Lankans previously sought foreign The delicate balance registered in this database employment annually. With supports relief efforts between the promotion of across the Middle East, the launch of the Migration overseas employment and the Southern Europe and to the Network in Sri Lanka, we can protection of Sri Lankan migrants and their Far East, Malaysia, Korea and collectively explore and workers abroad is a communities of destination, Japan. The Government also develop practical solutions to continuous challenge, he origin, and transit. took steps to release best assist and protect our noted. “The launch of this network emergency funds to attend to migrant workers during these He observed thus in his would strengthen the efforts the basic needs of migrants, challenging times. It is also speech delivered at the launch and existing work of the air lift dry rations to selected important that the voices of of the United Nations (UN) Government to develop its destinations, provide our migrants are heard and Network on Migration in Sri national global compact for temporary shelter and included at all stages of the Lanka, on 11 November. migration implementation”. accommodation, and facilitate initiatives. The Government The staff at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Hanoi, Vietnam and the Sri The UN Global Network on Sri Lanka has seen a tenfold polymerase chain reaction looks forward to engaging Lankan community in Vietnam raised Vietnamese dong (VND) 66.5 Migration establishes a increase in migrant numbers testing while some of our closely with the UN Network million (Rs 540,000) to support relief efforts by the Government of network on migration to in the last two decades, and missions in Jordan and Qatar on Migration and the the Socialist Republic of Vietnam relating to the deadly floods and ensure effective, timely and current estimates suggest that have been able to negotiate International Organisation for landslides in Central Vietnam, resulting from a series of typhoons coordinated system-wide around 1.5 million migrants and tropical storms which also caused personal injury, the jobs or alternative Migration, drawing on the displacement of families and damages to property. The donation of support to Member States. work overseas, with an annual employment opportunities for knowledge and expertise that VND 66.5 million was made on 9 November at the Ministry of The Network prioritises the outflow of about 200,000 those who lost their best benefits the people of Sri Foreign Affairs of Vietnam in Hanoi rights and well-being of persons. Around 800,000 of employment due to COVID– Lanka”. A6 Wednesday 17 november 2020 Editorial

Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 Fax: 0117566545 Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 E-mail : [email protected] E c Devalue Rupee o n Ceylon FT last Tuesday (10 November) reported that the country’s foreign reserves fell to a 42 Budget o month low last month (October), bludgeoned by the settlement of a maturing US$1,000 million m sovereign bond payment. Consequently, reserves, y last month over September 2020 declined by 12.12 per cent ($ 807.80 million) to $ 5,858.50 million. A reserves figure lower than $ 5,858.50 million last took place 42 months ago in end April 2017, when the country’s foreign reserves fell to $ 5,045.52 million then, from $ 5,119.85 million in March 2017, a decline of 1.45 per cent ($ 74.33 million) month on month to April 2017. In this context, one of the primary purposes of a budget, in the backdrop that Budget 2021 is to be presented in Parliament by Finance Minister and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa today, is to balance the country’s revenue and expenditure with a minimal impairment to the country’s foreign reserves as Sri Lanka is an import dependent economy. This also has to be looked at in the context that the country’s foreign debt servicing commitments Battling Smog led by having to meet maturing sovereign bonds, like what happened last month, will amount to $ four billion annually for the next three years to 2023. Sri Lanka opened its way to invest in sovereign bonds when the current State Minister of Money, Ajith Nivard Cabraal, was Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor in 2007. to Prevent Covid Meanwhile, a foreign debt servicing commitment of $ four billion for only next year (2021) alone, excluding similar commitments for 2022 and 2023, is equivalent to 68.28 per cent of the country’s current foreign reserves cover of $ 5,858.50 million. In this backdrop, in order to protect the country’s Pandemic Spread spartan foreign reserves, the Government has embarked on a policy of exchange controls and By Ashok Dixit import bans, almost coinciding with the explosion of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the country in March The three-phased Elections in the of this year (2020). Eastern Indian State of Bihar is done and These exchange controls and import bans dusted and what was to be a foregone however do not apply to petroleum and conclusion of anti-incumbency kicking in to pharmaceutical imports plus some raw material unseat incumbent Chief Minister Nitish imports, made, for the purpose of value addition Kumar and prevent him from serving a and re-export. fourth consecutive term as the region’s However, exchange controls and import bans are Chief has come unstuck. On assumption of bad in politics. An example of which is what office, Kumar will have the unique record of happened to Premier Sirimavo Bandaranaike’s being the second longest serving Chief SLFP Government at the 21 July 1977 Polls where Minister of Bihar. it was reduced to a mere eight seats while its arch Setting aside the Assembly poll result, a rival the UNP which ended the winner won a record more pressing matter has arisen – that of five sixths majority. nipping a debilitating air pollution Rajapaksa who served as an MP representing the emergency that has engulfed most parts of Beliatta Electorate in the Bandaranaike Northern India in the bud amidst fears that Government may well be cognisant of that it could turn the ongoing battle against the humiliating defeat his Government suffered at that COVID-19 pandemic more complex. keen to resolve their existing differences has also said that it will support the Poll, in which Election where he too lost his Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, was through dialogue in spite of domestic candidature of Maldivian Foreign Minister Beliatta Seat. celebrated on Saturday (14) and the resistance. Nepal and India have been at Abdullah Shahid for the Presidency of the The Bandaranaike era, led by exchange controls resultant and senseless annual use of loggerheads over territorial claims since 76th Session of UN General Assembly and import bans, was an era marked with queues, firecrackers has only upped the health November last year and Shringla and his (UNGA) in September 2021. rationing, a thriving black market, corruption and scare about pollution. We need to Nepali counterpart Bharat Raj Paudyal can an era where the bare necessities of life such as acknowledge the country’s National Green be expected to iron out a workable solution. Suu Kyi Poll Win Bodes Well rice, bread, sugar and cloth became luxuries. Tribunal (NGT) for firmly overruling moves The Indian Foreign Secretary will also be for India There was no Accelerated Mahaweli Development by several State (Provincial) Governments to calling on Nepal President Bidhya Devi Project then to make the country self-sufficient in permit the time-bound staggered use of Bhandari, Prime Minister K.P. Sarma Oli Myanmar’s ruling National League for rice. Sri Lanka was dependent on the now defunct crackers at designated public spots till 1 and Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Democracy (NLD), which is led by Nobel Rubber-Rice Pact with China to feed its citizens December. Gyawali during his two-day trip. The Indian Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, can hope to with rice, its staple diet, then. In a 58-page directive, the NGT said that MEA has taken pains to state that Shringla take its relations with India forward It was an economy abhorred by the masses, this sweeping ban against use of crackers visit will not be a “single agenda” trip, but following a substantial second consecutive underlined by the fact that they unceremoniously “stems from concerns that already critical confirmed that the schedule for next General Election win (as per reports) last booted her and her Government out of power at the levels of air pollution will add to the growing meeting of the Joint Technical Level week. At the time of the writing of this July 1977 Poll. toll of the COVID -19 pandemic.”It further Boundary Committee (JTLBC) is to be fixed. column, the NLD was projecting itself to Therefore, the continuation of exchange controls directed that no State, city, or town will be Matters relating to COVID-19, reviving the securing more than 322 national assembly and import bans as currently practised in the exempted from the cracker ban as air operations of the Pancheshwar seats out of the 642 up for grabs. New current dispensation may be politically suicidal. pollution is currently hovering between the Hydroelectric Power Project over the River Delhi, it can be assumed, would be satisfied Therefore, the only panacea may be a deep severe and poor level. Those not complying Mahakali and other power projects will also with the prospect of having and maintaining devaluation of the rupee. That will make goods can be prosecuted under the Air Act and be be discussed. continuity in its Look East, Act East available, but at a price. jailed for a period of up to six years or asked Cementing Ties with Male engagement. The Government which succeeded Bandaranaike to pay a fine of USD 1348. Virtual Engagement Picking Up at the 21 July 1977 Parliamentary Poll understood Climate change and environment experts Following visits to Bangladesh, Myanmar, this political philosophy. While doing away with have warned that the air is currently France, Germany and the United Kingdom, Virtual summits are the flavour of the rationing, exchange control and import bans, it, to unbreathable. Firecrackers emit plumes of Foreign Secretary Shringla undertook a season in November. Last week (10), we protect the country’s Spartan foreign reserves, metal-based smoke into the air, adding to two-day visit to the Maldives last week (8 & witnessed the Shanghai Cooperation devalued the rupee by as much as 100 per cent in the toxic airborne mix of ultra-fine PM2.5 9). It yielded four significant bilateral Organisation (SCO) summit. This was the very first budget it presented, ‘Budget 1978’ in and fine PM10 particles caused by farmers agreements, including one in which New followed by the East Asia Summit on the late 1977, i.e. only a few months after it was setting fire to unused and stale crops, fuel Delhi will release a USD 100 million grant next day (11). On November 17 (today), the elected to power. But due to that 100 per cent emissions and construction-related dust. for the Greater Male Connectivity Project Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa devaluation of the rupee did it go on to lose the Real time Air Quality Index (AQI) was (GMCP) that will link capital Male with three (BRICS) grouping is meeting and will be elections that followed? pegged at a hazardous numeric of 999 at other islands -- Villingili, Gulhifahu and followed by the G20 virtual on 21-22 The answer is ‘no.’ In fact it went on to win Sri the time of the writing of this column. Thilafushi. November. On the last day of November, the Lanka’s first Presidential Poll held five years later Indian Foreign Secretary to Once completed, this project is expected SCO Council of Heads of Government is in October 1982 and followed this win by also to improve connectivity between the four meeting under New Delhi’s watch. clinching the country’s first ever national visit Nepal islands, boost economic activity, provide The virtual SCO Summit was hosted by referendum held two months later in December more jobs and encourage holistic urban Russia and assumes significance as it was 1982. Normalising or mending bilateral ties with development in the Male region. the first time that Indian Prime Minister Time is in this Government’s favour because both Nepal after a year of discordance has Apart from the GMCP-related pact, New Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi the next Parliamentary and Presidential Poll are become centric to the thought process in Delhi and Male have signed on the dotted Jingping joined an online meeting since the due in only another five years time. A radical South Block, the seat of the Indian Ministry line for two community development border standoff in the Eastern Ladakh devaluation of the rupee at today’s Budget, of External Affairs. In a fortnight from now projects and one for enhancing cooperation region surfaced in May. Both India and paradoxically, is the only salve to overcome the or less (26 & 27), Foreign Secretary Harsh in sports and youth affairs. China have not had regular diplomatic current political and economic morass led by the V. Shringla will visit Nepal capital India’s outreach to the Maldives and engagementsince April. COVID-19 Pandemic that it faces. Kathmandu to initiate a fresh formal other countries in its neighbourhood is a (Ashok Dixit is a New Delhi-based History has shown that a regime that practises dialogue with the Nepalese leadership. restatement of its commitment to former senior editor/journalist with sustained exchange controls and import bans is The visit must be seen as timely as it is cementing “Neighbourhood First” ties. leading multi-media news agencies politically doomed. taking the negotiations conducted by Shringla’s visit to Male comes two months Sputnik, ANI & IANS. He is also the son India’s Chief of Army Staff, General M.M. after a virtual interaction between the of India's former National Security Naravane, forward. Both countries appear Foreign Ministers of both countries. India Advisor and Foreign Secretary J.N. Dixit.) column tuesday 17 november 2020 A7

By N. Sathiya Moorthy and broad-base the HICDP projects currently undertaken in each of Sri News reports have quoted the Lanka’s 25 districts,” the Indian High Chinese Embassy in Colombo about Commission said in a statement, Sri Lanka participating in a China- referring to the virtual summit hosted five-Nation multilateral virtual between Prime Ministers Rajapaksa meet on COVID-19 management and and Narendra Modi, on 29 September. post COVID-19 economic revival. It These projects shall relate chiefly to was the second such consultation socio-economic development, among the ‘partners’ in as many livelihood support, conservation of months, with Afghanistan Pakistan, environmental and cultural heritage, Bangladesh and Nepal having empowerment of women, child welfare participated in the earlier round. and facilitation of community life, One noticeable feature is that all particularly through the creation of these Nations are not only located in infrastructure in the education, South Asia but also have a tentative, health, agriculture or community if not tense relation, with India, the development sectors. The Ministry of largest of South Asian Nations with Finance is the nodal Ministry for which China has an antagonistic implementing the HICDP scheme on relationship. The adverse relations the Sri Lankan side. date back to the early sixties and has “Presently, 21 projects covering all only worsened in recent times due to provinces viz., Northern, North- Chinese border incursions, despite Central, North-Western, Western, two positive, informal summits Southern, Central, Uva, between President Xi Jinping and India believes China is creating a Sabaragamuwa and Eastern Prime Minister Narendra Modi. ring around it which their Media Provinces of Sri Lanka are being The term employed by China to calls ‘a string of pearls’ undertaken under the MOU. They describe its out-reach with other include construction of primary Nations these past years is BRI, a schools and colleges, vocational short term for ‘Belt and Road training institutes, Universities, Initiative’. Before China formalised hospitals, rural sanitation, cultural the form and content of the BRI String of Pearls heritage, rain water harvesting, social structure and roped in Third World housing for poor, agricultural Nations in Asia and Africa, and also in warehousing, tourism and civil the European First World, one aviation infrastructure support. American author saw the earlier “The HICDP scheme has been initiatives of the kind, especially in designed to contribute to the South Asia and the extended Indian developmental aspirations and needs Ocean Region (IOR) in Africa as the of Sri Lanka. The projects undertaken ‘encirclement of India’. China’s are always demand-driven and The name given at the time was entirely based on the requirements of ‘String of Pearls’. Though China at the the Government and the people of Sri time was talking only about Lanka,” the statement said. development funding, setting up of Significantly, the statement also industrial units in the host-nations added how “all overheads and and the like, wherever Beijing has put administrative costs for implementing in its money, it’s seen only as a debt- these projects, as indeed any other trap, even by a section of the host- Encirclement projects under Government of India nation’s polity and economic grant, are absorbed separately by community. There has been lil’ or no Government of India and are not direct benefit for the people in the included in the project outlay”. host nations, in terms of jobs and In particular, the High Commission incomes (the latter, with or without pointed out, of course, without new and more jobs). drawing parallels, how the “scheme is What they have got instead is the of India entirely on-budget and implemented Hambantota kind of investments, or through various line Ministries of Sri what could be termed usury link its investments, say, to the host In geo-strategic terms, the US, impacted by COVID-19, and so is the Lanka” – and not by any Indian behaviour. In political terms, China Nation’s human rights records and especially under former President global economy. But China’s agency. Translated, it implies that the has never linked investments or debt- such other matters. It is anybody’s George Bush, more so the latter, used munificence on the COVID-19/ post- Sri Lankan Government, for all traps to conditionalities, whether guess if China would put its best to tell prospective allies that they had COVID-19 fund seems restricted to practical purposes would be using the economic or otherwise. Developing diplomatic foot forward, say, for Sri to be either with the US, or would be the Third World, especially in India’s services of local entrepreneurs and Nations have had such problems with Lanka on the war-crimes probe at the deemed to have been against the US. neighbourhood. labour – with the result, the Indian the IMF and World Bank. The two UNHRC without the Nation being a No half-way mark, no balanced Making a difference investments, as also all the benefits Bretton Woods institutions, and also ‘development partner’, as it is now, position and posturing on foreign derived from the same, stays within a host of others, like prudent but it has succeeded in convincing the policy, which sovereign nations could It is here Indian aid stands out vis- Sri Lanka and also reaches the local commercial lenders, have for decades other that it is not so. chalk out, based on their own a-vis China funding, especially in population, in every which way. now, began evaluating the repayment This contrasts with the behaviour of perspectives and priorities. terms of transparency and capacity of Nations before lending. the US-led West, where they use affordability in terms of interest and Burdening the future In such circumstances, they have human rights as their current Changing perspective repayment – two crucial factors from a It is here, Sri Lanka and Sri also been laying down what is being yardstick for offering trade This is where the perception about debtor-nation’s perspective. Lankans need to look at foreign commonly termed as ‘conditionalities’, concessions and international ‘String of Pearls’ being only an earlier Compared to China, India’s funding, whether it is from China, which are unpopular with local polity politico-diplomatic support on issues. ‘avatar’ of BRI needs to be looked at. assistance packages may not be India, or the US, or any other. – and people at large. These relate to This covers even their approach to Today, no one talks about BRI in the massive and tantalising, but they are Whether it is BRI or Indo-Pacific or levying more tax on the local development funding. This behaviour same tone and tenor as they used to focussed assistance, aimed at any other form of aid. How much of population, cutting down on welfare of the West has permeated into the point it out to the ‘String of Pearls’, community-specific projects, burden and/or benefits is the present spending – and, more importantly conduct of the West-created IMF, when originally coined. Critics do not including larger investments – where generation going to leave behind for liberalising trade and investments, World Bank and the like. This is also see the need to refer to the old, employment-creation for locals is at the yet-to-be born generations. The especially for the foreign trader and where China has scored. original nomenclature. To them, it is the top of the agenda. latter may not have any clue about investor. Lately, the US wanting to fund the old wine in a new bottle, and It is in this context, Indian High how the roads and bridges looked like There is a second economic element, development projects in the country that’s it. Commission’s recent statement in before China began funding, or how which is as much if not more through the Millennium Challenge But whom they call the ‘client Colombo, underlining how under New healthcare (including the India- important than possibly even the first. Corporation (MCC), for instance, has States’ of China have a problem Delhi’s High Impact Community funded ambulance service across the It is all about the availability of funds no seeming human rights tag accepting it as such. To the West, Development Projects (HICDP), a total nation) and education improved, with the investor-nation, on attaching to it. That does not mean especially, BRI is only an expanded of 64 schemes, worth SLR. 20 billion likewise – but they would all at the development-funding, as different that the US has given up on its version of the String, which they had have been implemented in the same be alive to the debt-burden that from their private sector, whose original UNHRC demands on war explained, targeted (only) Beijing’s country. Likewise, the two is left on their shoulders even before intention is to make money for their crimes probe, etc, etc. They seem to Indian adversary. But BRI partners Governments have signed, in the they were born. share-holders. China has the funds, have concluded that the two, namely, are not confined to least developed presence of Prime Minister Mahinda The alternative, not to hurt the but then, its so-called developmental developmental funding and human Nations and the like. Going beyond Rajapaksa, MoUs for third-phase future generation, seems to be in the funding agencies, call themselves only rights concerns can travel along two Iran and Iraq, Singapore and Saudi HICDP projects of SLR 300 m each in Hambantota kind of debt-equity swap as commercial entities. Their parallel tracks, and the twine never Arabia, Indonesia and the UAE are/ sectors such as agriculture, health deal. Is this what the present investments are also commercial would have to meet. were signatories. So is/was South and education, sanitation and water generation wants to leave behind as propositions, with nothing by way of But that is not how the host Korea, which is both a friend and ally supply. Together, the third-phase its legacy for the future? developmental ease for the debtor- Nations, especially those like Sri of the US. projects under the MoU, signed by (The writer is Distinguished nation. Lanka, that are caught in a cleft-stick But then, China seems to be using High Commissioner Gopal Baglay for Fellow and Head-Chennai Initiative, of the western making, look at it. For the BRI platform only to fund and India and Treasury Secretary S. R. Observer Research Foundation, the Twine shall not meet a change, they seemed to be telling finance, aid and assist only Third Attygalle for Sri Lanka, will cost SLR 5 multi-disciplinary Indian public- Yet, there is the larger element of the West that ‘Either you are with me, World nations. Their partnership with billion. policy think-tank, headquartered in international politics and diplomacy, or against me’, and with great First World partners seems to remain “It had been also agreed during the New Delhi. email: sathiyam54@ where China scores. Beijing does not conviction. mostly on paper. The whole world is Virtual Bilateral Summit to deepen nsathiyamoorthy.com) London Mayor Targets Racial Discrimination

By Sonia Elks from 2022 in an effort to diversify report following the murder of Police ranks, the report announced, Black teenager Stephen Lawrence London’s Police force will boost as part of a package of measures in 1999. recruits of Black and minority agreed with Police leaders. Khan said he recognised the great officers and be subjected to closer “More must be done – and will be progress made since then, but more public scrutiny, the city’s mayor done,” Khan said in a statement. work was still needed to tackle said on Friday as he unveiled plans “This starts with involving discrimination and build trust. aimed at tackling complaints of communities and ensuring they Black people were 3.7 times more racial discrimination. have proper oversight and scrutiny likely to be stopped and Black Londoners are more than of stop and search, the use of searched compared to white people, three times as likely to be stopped Tasers and the use of force, as well according to the latest London and searched by Police, official data as in the training of new Police Government data, and seven times shows, and the Met Police has faced Officers,” he added. more likely to be stopped in increased pressure over such Metropolitan Police searches for weapons or knives. disparities since global protests Commissioner Cressida Dick said Khan’s plan offers a good start in over racism erupted earlier this that while the force has zero raising the voices of Black year. tolerance of racism, it is not free Londoners and holding Police to Under a strategy laid out by from discrimination. account, said Ben Lindsay, chief Mayor Sadiq Khan, community “We have a lot more to do, and I executive of anti-violence group groups will help establish a am excited about leading further Power The Fight in a statement Disproportionality Scrutiny Group change,” she said in released through the mayor’s office. tasked with looking at how policing a statement issued in response to “While the acknowledgement that affects different communities, and the mayor’s plans, adding that the historic and systemic racism has holding Police to account over force was increasing its efforts to created a breakdown in trust complaints. build trust with Black between the Police and Black The force will also aim to recruit communities. Londoners is welcome - there is still 40 per cent of new officers from The Met was branded much to be done,” he said. Black and minority communities ‘institutionally racist’ by an official Thomson Reuters Foundation Black Londoners are three times more likely to be searched by Police A8 TUESDAY 17 NOVEMBER 2020 COLUMN

Memories Enemies of Promise – M. H. M Ashraff By Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha DPA much, but Premadasa had promptly Colleges, so I was not involved much in Before long we set up an alliance, delivered what he wanted, notably the negotiations, but all seemed well. It may not have been the first time I the Democratic People’s Alliance reduction of the cut off point. The 12½ But after the Election problems met him, but my first memory of M H (DPA), for the Presidential Election. per cent that would have made it arose. Members of the SLMC brought M Ashraff is of him descending from a Sirima Bandaranaike was the obvious impossible for the SLMC to win seats up the fact that Chanaka had spoken three-wheeler outside Dinesh choice to be the common candidate, on its own was reduced to 5 per cent, in favour of Salman Rushdie. Rauff Gunawardena’s party office in and her manifesto was largely written which meant it had got significant Hakeem, now Secretary, later said that Gothami Place. Going about, as the by Chanaka. But by the time the representation in the Parliament he regretted having been part of this Liberal Party did, in the smart vehicles Presidential election was called the elected in 1989. more fundamentalist group. But in of Chanaka and our senior Vice- alliance had splintered. Rukman, We had always felt Ashraff had been addition to pressures on that side, President Asitha Perera (I was whose opposition was to JR, saw no badly treated, and Chanaka too was Ashraff also, we gathered, had to face President, but had no car, and indeed reason to oppose the UNP when let down badly by Sirima who failed to opposition from Chandrika, who have never possessed one), we felt Premadasa became the Presidential put him into Parliament as promised. mistrusted Chanaka because of his some sympathy for Ashraff and what candidate. And the JVP, which had I wrote upbraiding her, and she continuing friendship with Anura seemed then a motley crew. joined us, secretively for they were replied at length, but her arguments Bandaranaike. I should note though that the then proscribed and indeed persecuted at did not hold water. But meanwhile And matters were complicated Secretary of his party, Ossman, knew the time, dropped out because they Premadasa was making overtures to because it seemed Asitha Perera was Chanaka and me well. His son Luthvi wanted the election boycotted unless Chanaka, and over the next couple of intriguing to be given the position had been a great friend of Chanaka in an interim administration was in years he Ashraff, Neelan Tiruchelvam himself. The numbers in Parliament school, and the father and I had come place. and the SLMP (which Chandrika had were evenly balanced, and Chanaka together when his query as to what abandoned, and was now led by was told it was feared he might vote had happened with regard to funds he SLMC alienation Ossie Abeygunasekera whose with the opposition to elect the had collected for S. Thomas’ first But worst of all was the alienation of In 1994 eloquent Ashraff got six elected candidacy in 1988 had also taken Speaker, so the argument was that alerted me to the crookedness of the Ashraff. From the beginning there had and two national list seats for the SLMC votes away from Sirima) worked someone else should be appointed until then Treasurer of the Board. Ossman been resistance from the SLFP, which towards an alliance supportive of that was done, and then that someone was our passport as it were to what at Horagolla, on Bandaranaike Premadasa. would resign and Chanaka given the was to prove – until 1994 at least – a Commemoration Day in 1988, Sirima Joining Chandrika and place. great friendship with the SLMC, told me, was because she did not wish His mother-in-law’s though soon enough it was Ashraff to let down Halim Ishak and other her leftist allies who became our principal point of SLFP Muslims. But Halim, though not promise contact. pleased at the emergence of the SLMC, Premadasa was, I think, trying to told me he would not stand in the way move the UNP in a new direction. But At this stage Chanaka suggested to Working together for of an alliance and, after I had put his assassination stopped all that, me that we instead put forward our change together a paper with regard to the and with D B Wijetunge taking his other Vice-President, General importance of the SLMC vote base, place the UNP returned to its Balaratnarajah, former Chief of Staff Dinesh had taken the initiative to and Chanaka and I had had a long conservative tradition, exacerbated by who had joined us immediately he bring together political parties discussion with Ashraff to persuade Wijetunge’s racism. So the proposed retired. But I knew that Bala was on opposed to the Government, to work him to lessen the numbers he wanted He told me then new alliance fell apart, and Neelan and the board of a liquor company, which I together for change. Not included in given nomination for the that he had not the TULF and also the SLMC gravitated thought might embarrass Ashraff. So his list were the parties of the United Parliamentary Election, agreement to the new alliance the SLFP had set when we met to make the decision, and Socialist Alliance, Chandrika’s SLMP was reached. been in a position up. This was dominated by Chandrika Asitha swore he would resign in a and the left parties, for they had But on the morning Chanaka went to ask much, but and her leftist allies, and indeed there week, I suggested we accept this, a supported the Constitutional to Anura Bandaranaike’s, before going was no place in it for Dinesh’s MEP for weakness about which I still feel guilty. Amendment that established next door to Tintagel for the signing, Premadasa had the 1994 Election. After this was agreed, Ashraff told us Provincial Councils. However he he found Anura in despair. His mother promptly delivered Chanaka and the SLMP decided to that his mother-in-law had told him invited the Liberal Party, I presume had changed her mind overnight, a stick with the UNP, initially on the not to come home if he did not keep his because, though we supported the decision they attributed to Sunethra, what he wanted, basis of the commitments made to promise, and I realised that he might Provincial Council system, we had who had not been happy about the tilt them by Sirisena Cooray, who had been well have agreed had we stood firm. made clear our opposition to the to Anura, and was even then plotting notably the reduc- Premadasa’s right hand man. Though Asitha of course refused to resign, manner in which the Councils were to bring Chandrika back. Anura told tion of the cut off Wijetunge removed him, the new and became a Muslim which made it set up, and also some obnoxious Chanaka he could not face Ashraff, Secretary was Gamini Wijeyesekera difficult for Ashraff to sack him. I recall features of the Indo-Lankan Accord, and that he should go and break the point. The 12½ formerly of the ELJP, and he too we met a month later in Galle, but including the provision for merger of news. per cent that renewed assurances of cooperation. Ashraff said he could do nothing. That the North and East. But though he included Chanaka in destroyed Chanaka, but I think it Chanaka, who saw Dinesh as SLMC get significant would have made the National List, Wijetunge had him destroyed Ashraff too. Though he somewhat nationalistic, was not too representation it impossible for removed. Anura Bandaranaike, now in tried later to develop a more keen on working towards an alliance, the UNP, told Chanaka that Ranil had pluralistic political identity, through but I persuaded him to attend the Ashraff was furious. He declared the SLMC to win been furious at his inclusion and got J what he called the National Unity meetings, and in time we became in that he would ensure Sirima’s defeat, seats on its own R to call up Wijetunge and insist that Alliance, it had no proper conceptual effect secretaries to the group. Though and that is what he did. Ossman someone who had been critical of two base, and the SLMC became more we were tiny, we punched well above came over to the alliance but, after a was reduced to 5 UNP Presidents should not have a sectarian each year. our weight, because of both meeting with Premadasa, Ashraff per cent, which place. Chanaka would have been intellectual input and also worked for him solidly, and delivered a invaluable to Ashraff to entrench his administrative capacity. And we were thumping majority in the Digamadulla meant it had got SLMC accommodates own more open vision. But without the best cement to bind to the District where he had virtual significant repre- Liberals him Ashraff too became a prisoner of grouping the Sri Lanka Muslim command of the Muslim vote. As we the identity he had stressed. He Congress and Kumar Ponnambalam’s had argued in writing, those votes sentation in the At this stage Chanaka was contributed nothing to the national Tamil Congress, for the other major made the difference. Parliament elected accommodated by the SLMC, given the vision. I cannot think he was content components of the alliance, the SLFP We did not see much of Ashraff at friendship that had continued between with that, but when he died in a and the MEP and Rukman this time, but the following year I met in 1989 him and Ashraff. I was busy at the helicopter accident during the 2000 Senanayake’s ELJP, were largely him at a nursing home in Kandy where time, having taken on coordination of Election campaign, shortly before his Sinhala Buddhist parties with no my father was recuperating after an the pre-University General English bête noir Sirima, the party retreated commitment to pluralism. eye operation. He told me then that he Language Training (GELT) course on into serving its Muslim vote base and had not been in a position to ask top of my work with the new University itself, nothing more. Averting Child Sexual Abuse By Thaveesha Bulegoda become an urgent requirement. Young administering justice. They need know children need to be taught the how to identify children at risk and to Universal Children’s Day falls on 20 importance of protecting their bodies educate the community on how to November. Sri Lanka commemorated and to understand the difference prevent child abuse. Children’s Day on 1October and 2 between good touches and bad September marked 30 years since the touches. If someone touches them in a Penal Code United Nations Convention on the way that makes them feel The Penal Code of Sri Lanka was Rights of the Child came into force. uncomfortable, they should be told to amended in 1995 after a campaign Despite these celebrations and report the incident to a trusted adult. against child sexual exploitation in the significant anniversaries to honour In 90 percent of reported cases, the travel and tourism industry but there children, Sri Lanka has witnessed a perpetrator is someone who knows the is an urgent need to amend the legal steep increase in cases of child abuse. child well. framework further. Inadequate laws The National Child Protection Authority There are many different Government related to crimes involving child sexual received 8,558 complaints through its agencies that work towards the abuse allow perpetrators to escape 1929 hotline in 2019, according to its betterment of the children. By punishment, especially with regard to statistics. Because of the stigma formulating a National Plan of Action, the Internet because the existing laws attached to child abuse, many cases go the activities of these different agencies have not been updated to provide for unreported. The bigger picture is not can be streamlined. The roles and the new technology. reflected in the statistics; going by responsibilities of the agencies can be The development of positive international figures, reported cases clearly defined to increase efficiency. parenting skills through awareness are likely to represent just 10 percent The plan can be formulated as national programmes and home visitations can of the actual number of incidents. families. Children must be spared pain committing crimes is the prevention policy. One of the NGOs working prevent child sexual abuse by providing The term child abuse brings to mind and suffering, both physical and process. against child abuse, ECPAT Sri Lanka- information, caregiver support and sexual or physical abuse that can be psychological. Early intervention is (PEaCE), has drafted a National Plan of training on child health and identified by external injuries and more efficient and effective than later Promote protective Action that has been submitted to the development. scars. But child abuse also intervention. measures Cabinet for approval. The sustainable remedy to prevent encompasses neglect and mental and Intervention and prevention of child Many cases are stalled due to child sexual abuse is to change the emotional abuse. In these instances, abuse enables children to avoid long Sri Lankans receive their sex insufficient evidence or improper attitude of the individual. One way to there are no visible bruises on the body term physical and mental harm. A education in an informal manner gathering of evidence when building a do this is to create social awareness but there are lifelong consequences for child who has been a victim is more through peer groups, the Internet and criminal case. Child protection officers with education and capacity building the child’s mental and emotional likely to be victimised again in the pornography. They are first in the do not possess adequate professional programmes. Attitudes can also be wellbeing. justice process. It is extremely difficult world when it comes to searching for knowledge about dealing with child changed through the development of to reintegrate a child who has been the word sex on Google. The lack of abuse cases. This is especially true personal self-worth; a person who Reduce risk factors abused, so he or she is at risk of proper sex education is a fundamental when it comes to child sexual feels he or she is valued and respected Successful child abuse prevention committing crimes as a result of being reason for the growing number of child exploitation online. It is important for by society is less likely to commit interventions must reduce risk factors abused. Through negative socialisation, sexual abuse cases. Providing sex officers to conduct their investigations crimes. and promote protective measures to a child becomes a criminal. Therefore, education to children appropriate to in such a way that the child does not Thaveesha Bulegoda is a Project ensure the safety of children and their a solution to prevent children from their age in the school curriculum has become a victim again in the process of Officer of ECPAT Sri Lanka News Tuesday 17 November 2020 A9

Five Gazette Notifications on rice pricing Carpeting roads in Puttalam District Six km to cost Fallen on Deaf Ears Rs 132.2M – Mudith Perera

The Founding Chairman of the ‘Shakthi’ Government into rice and to sell it through maintaining 20% ​​of the rice requirement Rice Project – 2019 of the Sri Lanka Rice the Lanka Sathosa and Cooperative under the ‘Shakthi’ project, the Producers’ Co-operative Society, W.D.K. Societies. modernisation of the Paddy Marketing Mudith Perera claimed that though the The long-term solutions proposed by Board such as through the provision of Consumer Affairs Authority has issued five them include prescribing certified paddy paddy dryers, the maintaining of 100,000 Gazette Notifications on rice over the past prices for Nadu, Samba and Keeri Samba tonnes of paddy, the restriction of the year, market prices of rice have not paddy and regulating the extent of land to collection of paddy, introducing high changed. be cultivated for each variety, deciding the yielding paddy varieties to reduce the As a short-term solution, they proposed price for the coming year on 1 March of production cost of paddy farmers, that the Government set a new price for every year, protecting the small and providing paddy dryers and regulating the rice based on the paddy price and to medium-scale industrialists who supply prices of agricultural machinery spare convert the paddy stocks owned by the 65 per cent ​of the rice requirement, parts.

Burying or cremating Muslim COVID-19 dead Health experts State Minister for Rural 5.59 kilometres (km) will be must decide – Wimal Roads and Other carpeted at a cost of Infrastructure, Nimal Lanza Rs 132.21 million. Next year The Leader of the National Freedom Front (NFF), inaugurated road we are moving towards a Minister Wimal Weerawansa said that the Cabinet of development activities in the target of building 30,000 km Ministers was not the place to decide on the burial or Puttalam District on 14 under the 100,000 km cremation of anyone who dies of COVID-19 and that if November. The Wennappuwa national programme, he a decision is taken to bury Muslim bodies affected by Gin Oya Bolawatta - stated, adding that a request COVID-19, it should be done by expert health Dankotuwa Road, the had been made by President officials. Wennappuwa - Kirimetiyana Gotabaya Rajapaksa to He further said that if such a decision is made, Road and the Tabbowa develop rural roads experts should make known the reason for the Koswatta - Botalegama Road requested by the public to be decision. will be carpeted. Under the fulfilled within the next four Weerawansa also said that the decision not to bury three rural road projects, years. Muslims who died of COVID-19 was made by health officials who are experts in the field. He also stressed that since COVID-19 did not affect persons on the basis of race or ethnicity of religion, one should not use these as political issues. “Although the Bible mentions the burial of Catholics, App developed to track such requests were not made in the face of such a serious pandemic,” he said. spread of virus Weerawansa said that all Sri Lankans should join hands to save the people from COVID-19, leaving By Eunice Ruth patients, and also this app aside the debate on what should be done to the will make the quarantined corpses. It is expected that a pilot persons lives easier, by He was speaking to the Media after distributing the project would be begin in providing much needed Rs 5,000 allowance to those affected by COVID-19 in SLN 70th anniversary the coming days on the facilities through the Kaduwela Divisional Secretariat Division on 12 application ‘Track the smartphones,” said November. He said that the Rs 5,000 allowance had Spread’, with the Rambukkanage. been given to 450,000 affected families in the Flag Blessing and ‘Kanchuka’ involvement of the The mobile application Colombo District and that dry rations worth Government and other and its interfaces are built Rs 10,000 each were given to 9,000 families who were Pooja held in A’pura health authorities, said the by our developer Ruwin quarantined. (BGS) President of the Rotaract Ratnayake and the final The flag blessing and ‘Kanchuka’ pooja ceremonies were held in Club of the Kelaniya part of the process – the Anuradhapura to mark the 70th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) University, Nipuna documentation also has which falls on 9 December. The events were held on 12 and 13 November Rambukkanage. been completed by Nipuna under the patronage of the Navy Commander, Vice Admiral Nishantha Rambukkanage stated, Rathnayaka, he said. Ulugetenne, at the Ruwanweliseya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in the club has developed an Meanwhile, he requested Anuradhapura. (NV) advanced COVID-19 software developers, Artistes appeal patient tracking system volunteers and with an application named undergraduates from other ‘Track the Spread’ to stop universities to get involved to Govt and prevent the virus with the club to contribute spreading. and support in the Artistes affiliated to the Jathika Jana Balawegaya NMCRP urges Budget Proposals “The development of the development process and (JJB) stated that among those who had lost their day- project is completed, with be part of the process to to-day livelihoods were artistes, especially those who benefiting consumer some additional features stop the spread of the ply their trade on the stage were particularly hit hard. which can benefit both the virus, adding that those “Under these circumstances, we as artistes are The National Movement for An efficient plan should be public health instructors interested could contact forced to intervene to sort out issues that have Consumer Rights Protection implemented to make consumer and COVID-19 infected him via 00940774664473. cropped up on the field of arts and culture. Though (NMCRP), commenting on the 2021 goods such as electrical appliances the Government had mooted measures of granting budget proposals, said, the country affordable to the consumer. It has bank loans for artistes during the first wave of the needs a proposal that truly benefits been noticed that companies pandemic, they have to date kept silent about its the consumer. operating under the Betting and continuation during the second wave. In a release in this regard, the Gaming Levy Act continue to avoid “We urge the Government to pay attention to the NMCRP added, the consumer paying their taxes. Electrical Fatal sword attack issues raised by us with regard to artistes and provide expects reduced prices of essential engineers have not been paying By Naalir Jamaldeen solutions forthwith,” their release in this regard read. goods and services and a programme Advance Personal Income Tax (APIT) succumbed to injuries, Palai should be implemented where the for many years. The government Police said. goods practically get to the hands of loses about Rs 700 million rupees A 40-year-old, who was The victim has been the consumer and also, institutions due to this, annually. allegedly attacked with identified as such as the Consumer Affairs “The tax revenue has been swords, by unidentified Dhanapalasingham Authority should ensure such goods drastically reduced due to persons yesterday (16), Kulasekaram, a resident of and services reach them. irregularities of various officials while commuting on his Mamunai. “The consumer should be working in the liquor and tobacco motorcycle along the Police added that the protected from exploitative traders. regulatory agencies and Thambagamam Mamunai victim was attacked with Clothing, including textiles, should shortcomings of policymakers. The riverside forest area road, in swords by unidentified be provided at discounted rates, Government loses Rs 100 billion a the Kilinochchi persons on his way home and especially, telephone and year in taxes on illegal cigarettes and Pachchilaippalli Divisional after purchasing fruits at a Internet charges should be reduced. alcohol,” the NMCRP claimed. Secretariat Division, fruit shop in the Palai area.

UPA Gen Secy to President, PM Dangerous to maintain quarantine Give COVID-19 centre at Bogambara Prison – Kiriella victims value By Nabiya Vaffoor claimed that the current Tests in the private sector By Naalir Jamaldeen Government delayed students because polymerase chain The Government should education for around one reaction (PCR) testing The Secretary General of the United transfer the Bogambara year. machines of the State sector Peace Alliance (UPA), M.T. Hassan Ali Prison quarantine centre to a “During our tenure, we tried have been breaking down a has requested President Gotabaya different location, since it is a to provide tabs to lot recently. The health sector Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda vulnerable and dangerous schoolchildren to provide a is also being intervened by Easter attack case Rajapaksa to reconsider the stance of location to maintain a technology-based education. politics,” he claimed. health sector officials on cremating the quarantine centre at, claimed But the current Government He further emphasised that Dozen re-remanded bodies of Muslim COVID-19 victims by Samagi Jana Balawegaya was against this tabs,” he considering the statistics, Sri giving value to their feelings and the (SJB) Parliamentarian added. Lanka is the country which By Farook Shihan yesterday (16) before right to conduct the final rituals Lakshman Kiriella. He further alleged that the has conducted the least Ampara District according to their religion. “This location is situated in Government is trying to number of PCR tests, in A group of 12 suspects, Kalmunai Magistrate I.N. Ali claimed that cremating the bodies the centre of town, therefore, convert the COVID-19 South Asia. who had links with the Rizwan , over video call of Muslim persons who die in the the whole town and the pandemic into a business to “Still the Government is 21 April 2019 Easter and the Magistrate also pandemic is contrary to Islamic district becomes vulnerable to help its friends and to trying to claim that this Sunday suicide attacks ordered the Police to principles. He added that the World COVID-19 if such centres are promote Rapid-Antigen Tests COVID-19 second wave hasn’t mastermind Zaharan submit more evidence at Health Organisation has recommended, maintained. And, 800 in the private sector. been any community spread Hashim, were ordered to the next hearing. that bodies of COVID-19 victims could inmates have been admitted “We suspect as to whether yet,” added Nanayakkara. be remanded further till These suspects were be buried or cremated. to it without any discussions the Government is trying to The duo expressed these 30 November, by the arrested in the He further claimed that every citizen taking place,” he alleged. convert the pandemic into a views yesterday (16) at a Kalmunai Magistrate. Batticaloa District last has been vested with the right and Meanwhile, SJB MP business to help its friends Media briefing held at the SJB The trial was held year. freedom to follow their beliefs. Manusha Nanayakkara and to promote Rapid-Antigen headquarters. A10 tuesday 17 november 2020 world

Paris, France Ethiopia Says Tigray Thalys train attacker, Town Seized, War thwarted by Americans, Embroils Eritrea goes on trial A suspected Islamist gunman who opened fire Thousands of refugees flee to Sudan from cut-off region aboard a high-speed train travelling through Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy troops, accusing them of using other. northern Europe but was overpowered by three Ahmed’s Government said on of high-tech weaponry including The Ethiopian National US citizens before he killed anyone goes on trial Monday (16) it had captured drones in attacks he said Defence Force (ENDF) has on Monday (16) in the French capital. another town in the northern smashed a dam and a sugar around 140,000 personnel and Moroccan national Ayoub el Khazzani was Tigray region after nearly two factory. plenty of experience from heavily armed when he launched his attack weeks of fighting in a conflict “Abiy Ahmed is waging this fighting Islamist militants in moments after the train crossed into France already spilling into Eritrea and war on the people of Tigray and Somalia and rebel groups in from Belgium on 21 August 2015. destabilising the wider Horn of he is responsible for the border regions, plus a two- Khazzani is accused of attempted murder with Africa. purposeful infliction of human decade border standoff with intent to commit terrorism and association with Hundreds have died, at least suffering on the people and Eritrea. terrorist networks, among other charges. He 20,000 refugees have fled to destruction of major But many senior officers were faces life in jail if convicted. Sudan and there have been infrastructure projects,” he said. Tigrayan, much of its most A French citizen was the first to tackle reports of atrocities since Abiy “We are not the initiators of powerful weaponry is there and Khazzani after a gunshot rung out in a carriage ordered air strikes and a ground this conflict and it is evident that the TPLF has seized the powerful before the three Americans, two of whom were in offensive against Tigray’s rulers Abiy Ahmed conducted this war Northern Command’s the military at the time, rushed the attacker and for defying his authority. as an attempt to consolidate his headquarters in Mekelle. disarmed him. The conflict could jeopardise a personal power,” he added, There are reports of defections A judicial source said Khazzani had confessed recent economic opening, stir up warning that Ethiopia could of Tigrayan members of the to planning the attack to investigators but had ethnic bloodshed elsewhere become a failed state or ENDF. And the TPLF itself has a said he only intended to attack US soldiers on around Africa’s second most disintegrate. formidable history, spearheading leave, and not civilians. He told investigators he populous nation, and tarnish The fighting has spread the rebel march to Addis Ababa decided against the attack at the last second but the reputation of Abiy who won a beyond Tigray into Amhara, that ousted a Marxist that it was too late to avoid the confrontation Nobel Peace Prize last year for a whose local forces are allied with dictatorship in 1991 and bearing with passengers, the source added. peace pact with Eritrea. Abiy’s forces. On Friday (13), the brunt of a 1998-2000 war France was at the time still recovering from the The Tigray People’s Liberation rockets were fired at two airports with Eritrea that killed hundreds trauma of attacks in Paris seven months earlier Front (TPLF), which governs the Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy in Amhara in what the TPLF said of thousands. against the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo region of more than five million Ahmed (Reuters) was retaliation for Government Eritrea’s President Isaias and a kosher supermarket. Three months later, people, has accused Eritrea of air strikes. Afwerki – a long-time foe of the a squad of jihadists would strike again, killing sending tanks and thousands of from. With communications Tigray leaders accuse Abiy, Tigrayan leaders – controls a 130 people in coordinated attacks on the capital. soldiers over the border to mainly down and Media barred, who is from the largest Oromo vast standing Army which the “One need only know that Ayoub El Khazzani support Ethiopian federal Reuters could not independently ethnic group and Africa’s United States’ CIA puts at was in possession of 300 rounds of ammunition troops. Asmara denies that. verify assertions made by all youngest leader, of persecuting 200,000 personnel. and firearms to understand what we narrowly Tigray forces fired rockets into sides. There was no immediate them and purging them from Abiy once fought alongside the avoided, a tragedy, a massacre,” France’s then Eritrea at the weekend. comment from Tigray’s leaders Government and security forces Tigrayans and was a partner in President, Francois Hollande, said days after the A task force set up by Abiy to on events in Alamata, near the over the last two years. He says Government with them until attack at a ceremony to award the American handle the Government’s border with Amhara State, about they rose up against him by 2018 when he took office, friends the Legion of Honour. response to the crisis, said 120 km (75 miles) from Tigray’s attacking a military base. winning early plaudits for Clint Eastwood, the US actor and director, troops had “liberated” the town capital Mekelle. Amnesty International has pursuing peace with Eritrea, made a movie based on the events entitled ‘The of Alamata from the TPLF. “They TPLF leader Debretsion denounced the killing of scores starting to liberalise the 15:17 to Paris’ fled, taking along around 10,000 Gebremichael urged the United and possibly hundreds of civilian economy and opening a Prosecutors have said Khazzani’s attack was prisoners,” it added, without Nations and African Union to labourers in a massacre that repressive political system. premeditated. He allegedly listened to audio on specifying where those were condemn Ethiopia’s federal both sides have blamed on each (Reuters) social media calling on Muslims to take up arms in the name of the Prophet, they said. (Reuters)

London, United Kingdom Dubai, United Arab Emirates Shopper numbers plunge as Bahrain Foreign Chisinau, Moldova English lockdown makes impact Minister heads Opposition Total shopper numbers essential shops had to more resilient may well be across British retail close, along with pubs, a function of the to Israel to meet candidate destinations plummeted cafes and restaurants proximity of Christmas, 57.7 per cent in the week except to offer takeaway and the concern of Netanyahu, Pompeo to 14 November year-on- food. People have also shoppers to buy well in Sandu wins year, reflecting the impact been encouraged to work advance this year to avoid Bahrain’s Foreign Minister will travel to Israel on of England’s second from home if possible. queues, facilitated by the Wednesday (18) in Manama’s first official delegation national lockdown, Springboard said wide range of non-food there and is due to meet Prime Minister Benjamin market researcher shopper numbers, or products offered in stores Netanyahu and visiting US Secretary of State Mike Presidential Springboard said on footfall, was 64.7 per cent selling essential goods,” Pompeo, diplomats said. Monday. lower year-on-year in UK said Springboard Director Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates established Scotland, Wales and high streets and 65.7 per Diane Wehrle. formal ties with Israel in a US-brokered deal signed run-off Northern Ireland enacted cent lower in shopping The researcher said that at the White House on 15 September. Sudan has new COVID-19 health centres but down 34.3 per following the end of a two- since said it would also formalise relations with restrictions last month cent in retail parks. week lockdown in Wales, Israel, a former foe. and England began a one- It noted that footfall was footfall in its retail Bahrain’s Abdullatif Al-Zayani’s trip to Israel will month lockdown on 5 more resilient than it was destinations rose by 135.9 coincide with a visit there by Pompeo. They will hold November to curb a in the first complete week per cent last week from a three-way meeting with Netanyahu, two diplomats second wave of the of England’s first the week before, providing briefed on the planning said. pandemic that has left the lockdown in March when an indication of what may An official in Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry told United Kingdom with it plunged by 75.1 per occur in England when Reuters that Al-Zayani would hold talks on areas of Europe’s highest death cent across all UK retail the latest lockdown ends cooperation broached during an Israeli delegation’s toll. destinations. on 2 December. visit to Manama on 18 October. In England, all non- “The fact that footfall is (Reuters) (Reuters)

Moscow, Russia Ice rink turned into hospital as COVID-19 cases hit record Russia reported a record instead the importance of 22,778 new daily coronavirus hygiene, social distancing and cases on Monday (16) as the imposing targeted measures in Maia Sandu, opposition candidate and former authorities in Moscow turned to certain regions. Authorities in Prime Minister, votes at a presidential election a temporary hospital built inside the Siberian region of Buryatia, Chisinau, Moldova, 1 November 2020. (Reuters) an ice rink to handle the influx of which borders Mongolia, on COVID-19 patients. Monday closed restaurants, The country of about 145 shopping malls, bars and public Opposition candidate Maia Sandu million people has started facilities for two weeks in a bid to won presidential election run-off in opening temporary clinics and stem the virus. Moldova, defeating pro-Moscow re-purposing hospitals in the The region, which recorded 271 incumbent Igor Dodon, preliminary capital and other cities to relieve new cases in the last 24 hours, is results from the central election the strain on its medical system. the first in Russia to impose commission showed on Monday. In Moscow, the Krylatskoe Ice harsh restrictions in response to The commission’s data showed Palace, known for hosting the pandemic’s second wave. Sandu had 57.74 per cent of votes international speed skating “The number of patients is not and Dodon had 42.26 per cent after competitions, is now on the decreasing,” Alexei Tsydenov, the 99.95 per cent of ballots had been frontline after being converted Regional Governor, said in a counted. into a temporary hospital for video address. “There is a “Preliminary data is clear, they COVID-19 patients. It opened A general view of treatment blocks at a temporary hospital in the Krylatskoye shortage of medicine in the speak for themselves,” Vladimir last month. Ice Palace, where patients suffering from COVID-19 are treated, in Moscow, 13 pharmacy network. More and Sarban, the Commission’s Deputy November 2020. (Reuters) Though better resourced than more hospital beds are needed Head, told a news conference. other regions, authorities in from a regular hospital,” Chief “We prepared very well, which everyday.” He said the final results would be Moscow are under severe Doctor Andrei Shkoda told wasn’t the case in the spring (at With 1,948,603 infections announced within five days. pressure. They reported 6,360 Reuters, wearing a medical mask the start of the pandemic),” since the start of the pandemic, According to Moldova’s legislation, new infections in the Russian and laboratory coat. Shkoda said. “Since then, we Russia has the fifth largest the Constitutional Court must capital on Monday. The facility, he said, is have prepared clinical protocols, number of cases in the world approve the results. More than 1,300 hospital beds equipped with all necessary gained experience in the fight behind the United States, India, Sandu, 48, has said she would equipped with oxygen tanks equipment to treat and diagnose against the coronavirus...” Brazil and France. secure more financial support from cover the former ice rink’s 400- the illness, including a CT Despite a recent surge in cases, Russian authorities reported the EU as President. metre speed skating track, with scanner. It is currently treating Russian authorities have resisted 303 coronavirus-related deaths (Reuters) more than 100 doctors and about 600 people, with between imposing lockdown restrictions in the last 24 hours, taking the nurses deployed. 60 to 80 new patients being across the country as they did national death toll to 33,489. “Only its design differentiates it admitted and released everyday. earlier this year, stressing (Reuters) tuesDAY 17 november 2020 Ceylon FT b11

OPA conference on Sri Lankan Construction Industry LRT, KV Line Cancellation Bad for SL – CCI CEO Foreign companies should share at least 40% of construction work with local companies By Rajiesh Seetharam the Hambantota Port, Katunayake Expressway, Southern Referring to the cancellation of Expressway and the the Colombo Light Rail Transit Moragahakanda Dam are awarded (LRT) and Kelani Vally (KV) Line, to foreign companies. However, at Chamber of Construction least 40% of the project work done Monday Markets Industries (CCI) of Sri Lanka by foreign companies should be Secretary General / Chief shared with local companies Executive Officer Eng. Col. which could either be a joint Bearish run Nissanka N. Wijeratne stated that venture or a sub contract. Thus, professionals should guide the we are pushing for a change in the Government appropriately with CIDA Act,”Wijeratne said. continues regard to infrastructure and He welcomed the recent By Mario Andree construction projects, as some of government circular directing all these projects are cancelled due to government projects funded by The Colombo Stock Exchange opened the professionals misguiding the consolidated fund (excluding mega new week on a negative note as the Government. Speaking at a CCI CEO Eng. Col. Nissanka N. OPA president Saman projects due to loan obligations) to benchmark index continued its bearish run virtual conference organised by Wijeratne Warusavithana be awarded to local companies. for the third consecutive session, on Monday the Organisation of Professional However, he objected to 15% (16), on a relatively high turnover with Association (OPA), Wijeratne so that payments to contractors “Even the IMF isn’t extending preference given to State Owned continued foreign exits from the Bourse claimed that the cancellation of and consultants will be legal facilities; many donor agencies will Enterprises (SOE), which he says ahead of the 2021 Budget reading scheduled LRT, KV Line project was liability in addition to contractual go by IMF reactions. The situation should be brought down to 5%. for 1:40 p.m. today (17). detrimental for Sri Lanka as it liability.” stated Wijeratne. is further aggravated by the recent “We can accept granting 5% Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa is would discourage bilateral or In addition to payment defaults, cancellation of LRT projects and preference to SOE’s such as the scheduled to present the 2021 Budget today multilateral funding in future. delay in payments has also caused KV line expansion,” he added. State Engineering Corporation, and the second reading debate will take “The KV Line project, as many construction companies In 2019, 7.5% of the GDP was State Development and place from tomorrow (18) till Saturday (21) recommended by Sri Lankan globally to go bankrupt, stated CCI from construction. Around Construction Corporation and the after which the vote will be taken. professionals, the government CEO. “One of the main reasons for 650,000 people worked in the Central Engineering Consultancy The benchmark All Share Price Index requested ADB assistance. The bankruptcy is due to the delay in construction industry stated Bureau as they are training young (ASPI) slipped 0.09 per cent (5.50 points) to project was finalised after payment rather than profit Wijeratne. However, he noted that professionals. However, granting close at 6,076.92 points, its lowest since 5 feasibility studies were done by margins,” he said. the number would have come 15% preference is not acceptable November, while the more liquid S&P SL20 the ADB for more than five years. Meanwhile, the Government is down, below 100,000 due to the as it discourages opportunities to slipped 0.61 per cent (14.68 points) to close However, recently the Government cash strapped; it will be extremely COVID-19 impact. Foreign the private sector. This is like at 2,386.69 points. cancelled the projects and it has to difficult to fund new projects noted companies undertake around awarding SOE’s for their The daily turnover at the CSE stood at Rs be noted that some professionals Wijeratne. “That is the reason for 50% of the construction projects inefficiencies. The Chamber would 1.4 billion, lower than the Rs 1.9 billion who requested for ADB assistance, the Government to go for Public turnovers. Most of the lobby against it,” Wijeratne said. recorded the previous market day. are against the project and are Private Partnership (PPP) projects, employment in the construction OPA President Saman More than 58.37 million shares changed now advising the present where foreign companies will bring industry is from infrastructure Warusavithana stated that the hands during 15,993 trades. Government,” noted Wijeratne. funds to undertake the project. In projects such as roads, water construction industry plays a vital Shares of 255 companies were traded, of Wijeratne said that one of the the proposed eight multi- storey supply, power supply and role in Sri Lanka’s economy and which 98 emerged losers ahead of 80 major issues in the construction car parks, it is expected that only irrigation projects while a few are thus. the OPA has formed the winners. industry was cash flow. “The CCI big or foreign companies can from the construction of ‘construction sector standing Foreigners were net sellers for the 28th requested for the Security of undertake the projects as they can buildings. committee’ which is a special consecutive session. Payments Act. However, as it is a bring the funds required for the State Construction Agencies are committee within the OPA, where Net foreign outflow during the day bit difficult to be implemented due project.” generally awarded building even non- OPA members from the amounted to Rs 25 million, as foreigners to certain procurement related With several rating agencies constructions, while big construction industry can put sold shares worth Rs 138 million as against issues, thus we look forward for downgrading Sri Lanka’s sovereign infrastructure projects are forward their issues, which the purchases worth Rs 113 million. certain changes in the payment rating, it will be difficult for Sri awarded to foreign companies OPA would take up with the The top ten gainers during the day were clause of the Construction Lanka to borrow funds from Wijeratne noted. “Due to loan Government to amend policies Printcare, CT Holdings, Mullers, Anilana Industry Development Act (CIDA), abroad, he claimed. obligations, mega projects such as accordingly. Hotels, LOLC Development Finance, Renuka Agri, Lotus Hydro, Citrus Waskaduwa, Marawila Resorts and CM Holdings. Top ten losers were, Tess Agro (non- voting), Beruwala Resorts, Maskeliya, Richard Pieris, Asia Capital, Renuka City Hotels, Kegalle, Lankem Ceylon, Lanka Remittances continue to rise Ceramic and Hatton. Sri Lanka rakes in US$ 5.7B By Mario Andree 492.1 million from worker remittances, down 13.9 per cent from US$ 571 million a year ago. Devaluation Sri Lanka’s largest source of foreign exchange, In February this year, the country saw worker worker remittances, which has come under remittances increase 5.4 per cent to US$ 527.3 fears hit ‘Spot’ serious threat due to the COVID-19 pandemic million from US$ 500.5 million a year ago. affecting the global economy, has shown growth The country started this year on a positive By Paneetha Ameresekere for the fifth consecutive month in October this note, with worker remittances increasing 6.5 per year. cent to US$ 581 million in January, compared to The benchmark ‘spot’ fell sharply for the According to data released by the Central Bank US$ 545.3 million a year earlier. second consecutive market day yesterday, of Sri Lanka, worker remittances increased four With migrant workers returning to Sri Lanka this time by between 55 and 65 cents, to be per cent during October this year to US$ 630.7 due to fear of the pandemic, and some as a result trading at Rs185.25/45 to the US dollar in million compared to US$ 607 million last year. of losing employment, the future of remittances two way quotes at 4p.m., market sources told Accordingly, cumulative earnings from worker seems to be uncertain. However, with the this reporter remittances during the first ten months of this situation around the world settling down more This is because of expectations of a rupee year increased 2.6 per cent to US$ 5.68 billion, and more job opportunities in foreign countries devaluation in today’s budget to protect the compared to US$ 5.54 billion a year ago. are opening up for migrant workers. country’s Spartan foreign reserves, whilst In September this year, worker remittances Worker remittances have been Sri Lanka’s simultaneously liberating the country from increased 36 per cent to US$ 702.7 million largest foreign exchange earner and the country’s exchange controls and import bans which compared to US$ 516.3 million last year. balance of payments has been highly dependent have been a feature since April, they said. In August this year, worker remittances compared to US$ 536.6 million last year. on the income generated by migrant workers. Meanwhile, in the two market days to 4 increased 28.23 per cent to US$ 664.5 million In May this year, worker remittances declined The sector is also one of the largest p.m. yesterday the ‘spot’ has fallen by compared to US$ 518.2 million last year. 23.2 per cent to US$ 431.8 million, compared to employment providers to address the between 67 and 62 cents (0.36-0.34 per cent) In July this year, worker remittances increased US$ 562.1 million earned a year earlier. unemployment and poverty issues prevailing in and in the calendar year to 4p.m. yesterday 12.2 per cent to US$ 702.1 million compared to In April this year, worker remittances the country; however, Sri Lanka has been by between Rs 3.95 to Rs 4.05 (2.18 per US$ 625.7 million last year. amounted to US$ 375 million, down 32.3 per witnessing a declining trend in the number of cent-2.23 per cent) in two way quotes, In June this year, worker remittances cent from US$ 553.7 million a year earlier. departures for foreign employment over the last thereby causing cost-push inflationary increased 6.7 per cent to US$ 572.5 million In March this year, the country earned US$ few years. pressure. In similar negative developments, Government of Sri Lanka’s m(GoSL’s) demand-pull inflationary face value money printing (FVMP) debt increased for the second consecutive market day yesterday, Sri Lanka to receive same benefits of EU GSP+ for UK from 2021 this time by Rs 18,818 million, and, overall Since the UK is the main market cross regional cumulation has the by Rs 24,836 million (4.55 per cent) to Rs for Sri Lanka’s exports to the EU option to submit a joint 570,966.87 million to yesterday due to a region and the second largest application to the UK authority lack of GoSL revenue to meet its export market after the USA, it is once the Enhanced Framework is commitments. important for Sri Lanka to receive enforced. In the two market days to yesterday, the same tariff preferences it was With regard to the proof of GoSL’s demand-pull inflationary FVMP debt enjoying prior to Brexit when origin of exported goods, the has increased by Rs 41,813 million. trading with the UK in the post- Registered Exporters System Yesterday was also the tenth consecutive Brexit period, the Export (REX system), which is in use at market day that GoSL’s FVMP debt has been Development Board (EDB) said. present, will be discontinued from over the Rs half-a-trillion mark due to a Once the transition period ends 31.12.2020. However, a similar sustained lack of revenue, in its second on 31 December this year, the UK self –declaration form or a dispensation, after only a day’s ‘respite’ on 2 Global Tariff (UKGT) will replace Certificate of Origin (COC) Form A November when it went below the Rs half-a- the EU’s Common External Tariff - will be introduced by the UK trillion mark, then. which will apply until 31 Being a EU-GSP-plus beneficiary Further to the information authority. More details and In like negative developments, the December, 2020 - and UK country, Sri Lanka will continue to received by the Sri Lanka High guidelines on the COC will be country’s foreign reserves bled for the fifth Generalized Scheme of Preferences be eligible to receive the same Commission in the UK, the issued shortly by the UK consecutive market day to yesterday, this (UK GSP) will apply from January preferential benefits under EU current EU GSP Rules of Origin authorities. time by US$ 32.60 million (Rs 6,018 million) 2021. GSP+ for the UK as per their criteria will be applicable till During the aforementioned due to the settlement of a GoSL foreign debt The Department of International proposed Enhanced Framework 31.12.2023 and the exemptions of three-year-period (2021-2023), the servicing commitment and/or CBSL Trade of the UK has announced replicating EU GSP plus. The the EU-GSP Rules i.e. Bilateral/ UK will review the eligibility returning maturing swapped dollars to the that EU-GSP eligible countries will proposed Enhanced Framework of Regional/ Cross-regional and criteria, rules of origin criteria and market. Conversions are based on the middle be able to get the same tariff the UK replicating EU-GSP Plus extended cumulation will be guidelines to develop its bespoke rate of the benchmark ‘spot’ as at 4 p.m. on preferences they were entitled to criteria is expected to be enforced available in a different preferential scheme. The Thursday which was Rs 184.605 to the US earlier through the UK GSP from on 01.01.2021 for a three-year- terminology. A beneficiary country stakeholders too will be consulted dollar. 1January, 2021. period from 2021 to 2023. intending to apply for extended or in this process. B12 Ceylon FT tuesday 17 november 2020 news BOC and SLIC in collaboration Pre-Budget Note Introduce Dynamic LANKAQR payments for Insurance Sector and the President’s First Anniversary

By Ishara Gamage might be worse. Instead the funding free cash flow negative consideration. IMF-led economic reforms, the capital projects, undertaking lThe launch of a Bank on the The 75th Budget of President was able to get privatisation and capital lines of the British Business Expanding the frontiers of dynamic LANKAQR, thus Independent Sri Lanka will be approval for the 20th market reforms, lift ease of Bank will also yield benefits. National Quick Response enabling seamless digital presented to Parliament by the Amendment to the Constitution doing business and similar A Government-owned (QR) payment scheme, Bank payment experience. Prime Minister and Minister of with the backing of two-thirds indexes and close the gaping business development bank, of Ceylon introduces QR The addition of LANKAQR Finance Mahinda Rajapaksa of parliamentary support by holes in international relations dedicated to making based Life Insurance convenient cashless payment today (17) at 1.40 p.m. The pushing the constitutional and practice as a non-aligned financial markets, works premium payments in option is another important second reading debate of the reforms ahead of more impotent nation. better for smaller partnership with Sri Lanka milestone of SLIC’s digital Budget will be held for four budgetary reforms. As We also draw the businesses. Its focus should Insurance Corporation. journey. SLIC has introduced days from 18 to 21 November. consequences of these Government’s attention to some be on delivering greater Bank of Ceylon, has taken a wide array of digital The debate will be held daily activities, Moody's International of the new sectors/initiatives volume and choice of finance many initiatives to uplift the payment options such as from 10.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Credit rating agency has that need to be introduced in to start businesses, help digital payment landscape of mobile wallet, Digital and the vote on the second classified Sri Lanka as a very the economy too. them grow to the next level, the country. LANKAQR banking and bill settlements reading will be held on 21 high risk credit rated country lGive visible and tangible effect or stay ahead of the standard was introduced by through supermarket chains November at 5.00 p.m. The with poor debt repayment to the Paris Accord on the competition. It will not have the Central Bank of Sri and banks to provide Committee Stage Debate on the potential. environment that Sri Lanka a deposit base and not be Lanka and Lanka Clear (Pvt) convenient customer Budget will be held from 23 However, as the most stable has signed. With the US regulated by the Central Ltd to strengthen and experience. The recent November to 10 December.The and powerful Government in rejoining the group following bank. regulate the QR payment introduction of ‘SLIC’ vote for the Third Reading will recent history, the current the change in Presidency, lGovernance considerations solutions which will facilitate customer mobile app has take place on 10 December at Government has had the focus on green related are material to Sri Lanka's users to make payments enabled customers to 5.00 p.m. opportunity to reverse the economic activity will come to credit profile and are from their own mobile device conveniently interact with Economic and Financial negative reaction of Moody's to the fore. Already Green captured by all rating agents simply by scanning the SLIC on Life and General analysts have predicted that Sri Lanka by successfully Bonds have entered the and multilateral agencies. LANKAQR code of the insurance policy details, this year's budget would be the implementing its own but more market to fund specific These considerations relate merchant or biller. online payment options, most challenging in recent realistic economic/budgetary projects that yield lower mainly to the pace of reform Introduction of a national Claim Details and the Motor history. This will be the first full reform process through next emissions and other related implementation, as well as standard for QR payments Plus loyalty and partner year budget presented by the year’s budget. benefits. In this respect a political risks, which impair has enabled inter-operability network benefits. The digital present Government and will Accordingly, the Government substantial part of the EU the effectiveness of fiscal and between banks, finance technology partnership reveal the socio-economic will have to introduce Budget is focused on such economic policymaking. companies and e-money between the two industry outlook for the next four years systematic export and FDI projects to revive their Government policy makers wallets with clear operational leaders, BOC and SLIC with of President Gotabaya friendly policies through this respective economies post should be mindful of these guidelines given by Central introduction of LANKAQR Rajapaksa 's rule. Budget, to enhance the foreign C-19. A number of aspects when managing the Bank of Sri Lanka. cashless payment option will The country's socio-economic exchange reserves through multilateral agencies have financial affairs of the Bringing the revolution to enable the Sri Lankan progress has been continuingly non-debt creating sources. also taken up the cause. For country. next level, BOC has Insurance consumer to enjoy hampered in recent years. It Meanwhile, the government Sri Lanka too, the issuance of The National Policy introduced dynamic the latest cashless digital was mainly due to sluggish says it will implement foreign Green Bonds with funds Framework, as proposed by LANKAQR based utility bill payment experience. economic growth, Easter project assistance plans for specifically earmarked for President Rajapaksa, which payments to popularise the BOC SmartPay mobile QR Sunday terror attacks, and electricity and water projects green projects within a includes 10 key policies to concept of ‘Scan and Pay’ payment app was introduced uncertainties over political sectors through this budget to properly structured achieve four main goals: a which is simple and as a simple applet for coups. Now the situation is reduce pressure on the balance framework is doable. productive citizenry, a convenient for users. It was merchant QR payments has even worse in the face of of payments. le-learning is set to continue. contented family, a disciplined initially implemented with Sri performed beyond COVID-19 influence. Critics say that maintaining The announcement of new and just society and a Lanka Telecom, and BOC expectations and thus far In view of this, the local and fiscal discipline through vaccines may dent some of prosperous nation can be further widens its scope by amassed users exceeding foreign investor community transparent macroeconomic the demand but their use is considered to be exceptionally affiliating with Sri Lanka 150,000 across the country. hoped for a speedy economic, policies is essential to overcome now fundamental to learning positive even amidst the rather Insurance to facilitate the The latest version of financial and budgetary reform these economic challenges. and can be delivered at low weak handling of COVID-19 in national insurer’s valued life SmartPay app will be process as soon as the new They say the Government will cost without the need for its second wave. Given a insurance policy holders with released soon with enhanced Government came to power. face severe difficulties in student transport. unified Presidency and the ease of paying their features to offer clients a new However, critics say that meeting next year's revenue lRecognise that all Parliament enabling the Sri insurance premiums via user experience. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, targets in the face of poor development need not rely on Lanka Podujana Peramuna who is celebrating his first year economic performance in 2020, debt but that equity can and (SLPP) to form a Government as President today, has so far and that the budget deficit will should also play a role. Thus, with 150 seats, or a super failed to introduce commonly remain at 10-12 percent next the launch of a State Equity majority in the 225-seat acceptable macroeconomic year. Therefore, the Fund (SEF) should be Parliament, the risks are that framework to build the local Government will have to limit considered. Funded by disagreements between the and foreign investor confidence subsidies by targeting most dividend flows from State Government and the with the absence of proper needy segments of the society Banks and other profitable Opposition will run adrift and Innovation, diversity budget for this year. As soon as and will have to adopt strict State-owned enterprise the Government's policy he came to power, work had measures to eradicate (SOE), SEF should be agenda would be significantly key to drive tourism begun to end the International corruption and waste. managed perhaps by a reduced. Nevertheless, Monetary Fund (IMF)-led There are also a number of combination of experts both stopping the declining – UNWTO revenue-led fiscal consolidation issues that need to be foreign and local within strict momentum and obtaining programme. The tax addressed in order to achieve rules and subject to audit. upward mobility despite a ‘Hospitality Challenge’ to identify required concessions introduced the aspirations of this budget in We should be mindful of how bleak economic outlook is, capabilities to accelerate tourism immediately after the new a broader and more practical its investments will be although difficult, possible if Government came to power, manner. These are, refraining considered in negotiating Free the 2021 Budget reflects an By Anjali Caldera Beverage category (17 per with attractive tax rates are from promoting local Trade Agreements (FTAs) but honest and strong effort as Sri cent), and finally the Smart now causing a sharp decline in uncompetitive sectors, the potential to manage Lanka enters a pivotal time in The tourism of tomorrow Real Estate category (8 per Government revenue. With the undertaking essential sector excessive debt in the its long history with a view to must embrace new ideas, cent). C-19 effect the revenue impact reforms, refraining from development process needs going it alone. new voices and the full Pololikashvili said the diversity the sector has to breakdown of the different offer for the sustainability of categories demonstrates a the industry in the new strong interest in improving Consultancy & HR Services Division... normal, said the World the operational side of Srilankan adds Tourism Organisation hotels through its social (UNWTO) top official impact, with many projects Rebranded ‘People recently. aiming to reduce direct London Commenting on the unemployment and the Management Solutions’ – CIPM ‘Hospitality Challenge,’ a better management of hotel competition which was staff. Among the four CIPM Sri Lanka – the governmental additional solutions in -Maldives link launched by UNWTO in categories, four eminent Nation’s leader in institutions, firms, the areas of HR June this year to identify trends have emerged: waste human resource small and medium- outsourcing and job for winter new ideas and individuals reduction and management, has sized enterprises. placement services in capable of accelerating the sustainability, jobs and expanded the solutions “We have an addition to corporate Sri Lankan Airlines (SLA) has recently added recovery of the tourism education, safety and travel portfolio of its impressive pool of training and a direct London-Maldives link to its winter sector in the wake of the experience, as well as consultancy and HR highly qualified and consultancy services. schedule. COVID-19 pandemic, revenue and productivity. services division experienced HR and Corporate training The new twice-weekly Heathrow-Male UNWTO Secretary General, Almost 50 per cent of the recently which was set business professionals organises seminars service to start from December 12, operating Zurab Pololikashvili further projects address up to provide an array who are also industry and workshops which on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The return flights said, the competition has Sustainable Development of consultancy and HR experts to help and are tailor-made to the will also operate on the same days. allowed the industry Goal 8 - Decent Work and services to businesses. support organizations public and corporate It is said, SLA made the decision, stakeholders worldwide to Economic Growth. Rebranded as CIPM to strategize, optimize sector for specific considering a number of factors which will present innovative global The 30 top finalists of the ‘People Management and operationalise their needs, whereas the job assist them to bounce back into business. Sri best tourism and hospitality competition will be granted Solutions’, the HR plans in achieving placement services aim Lanka, its borders for tourism still being practices for the sustainable a full-board scholarship for division’s experienced corporate goals in an to provide the best closed and Maldives being opened for tourism development of the industry Bachelor or Master’s degree resource pool increasingly dynamic talent for corporate has prompted SLA to add the direct London- in the new normal. level courses at 30 different comprising of business and social recruitment needs. Maldives link to their schedule. The sources said, the hospitality programmes Chartered HR environment. The These solutions will Maldives has also been added to the UK’s initiative has received which are hosted by Professionals, business efficiencies that can be help organizations both travel corridor list last month. As per Kuoni almost 600 applications Sommet’s internationally and industry experts derived with HR in the in the private and Travels, UK travellers were planning to splash from all around the world; renowned institutions are fully geared to new normal will indeed public sectors to out on luxury Christmas overseas trips after 39 per cent were submitted specialised in Hospitality provide the crucial be one of the most modernize, innovate settling for summer staycations, with demand from the Americas, followed and Culinary Arts: Glion advantage to ensure competitive advantages, and reposition the HR for year-end getaways in Maldives on the by Europe 28 per cent, Institute of Higher that organizations have and CIPM People outlook to suit the ever- arise. Africa and the Middle East Education, Les Roches, and cutting edge people Management Solutions changing business The sources also said that bookings for 2021 both 18 per cent, and Asia École Ducasse. management solutions Division is well environment in today’s trips to the Maldives are also on the rise. and the Pacific (15 per cent). Bringing the submitted that will be required to equipped to provide that context. Meanwhile recent Google search data has also The Hospitality Challenge projects to life and navigate and lead in advantage” said Furthermore, several shown Maldives as the top holiday destination focused on four categories. increasing their chances of the challenging Jayantha Amarasinghe courses and among Europeans for next year. British The Hotels and Hotel- impacting the tourism business environment - President, CIPM Sri programmes offered by Airways has also resumed its direct winter Related Operations category sector has been the driving in the New Normal. Lanka. the CIPM People service to the Maldives. Hence, it is said the was the most popular, force of this challenge. This people After rebranding and Management Solutions operation will be beneficial to SLA to bounce receiving 41 per cent of all Out of the following 30 management expansion to provide Division have been back to their businesses. applications, followed by the selected finalists, the three intervention is wider consultancy and registered under the As per the sources, the route will operate Luxury Travels, Goods and winning projects will be designed to play a HR services in effective Tertiary and Vocational until 13 April 2021, running alongside one Services category (34 per announced in March 2021, significant role in and efficient ways, the Education Act No. 20 of world alliance partner British Airways’ six- cent), then the Food and the sources added. improving the key CIPM People 1990 by the Tertiary times-weekly direct Heathrow-Male service, functions of HRM in Management Solutions and Vocational which operates every day bar Thursdays. industries and related Division will now offer Education Commission. (AC) focus Ceylon FT Tuesday 17 November 2020 B13 How Countries are Raising Debt to Fight COVID-19 Why developing nations face tougher choices

By Shamel Azmeh governments of member states), began In recent years, this pattern began smaller scale of their capital markets decade.” a major borrowing campaign as part to change with a growing number of means that they are more reliant on While the reaction of the market to COVID continues to ravage societies of the efforts to fight Covid through developing countries increasing their external financing. This reliance this approach by developing countries around the world, and a key issue is the SURE programme (Support to foreign borrowing from private means that developing countries rely has been muted so far, the report how governments can afford to fight it. mitigate Unemployment Risks in an lenders. Developing countries, on raising money in foreign currency, argued, this situation might change. As economies are disrupted, Emergency) which was created in however, are in a structurally weaker which increases the risk to their Developing countries who do this governments are stepping in to May. position than richer peers. The economies. could “weaken monetary flexibility increase their spending to bail out The first sale of bonds worth €17 As many developing countries have and economic stability, which could companies, pay the cost of health billion was met with what some less diversified exports with a higher increase the likelihood of sovereign measures and subsidise workers’ described as ‘outrageous demand’, percentage of commodities, the price rating downgrades.” wages. with investors bidding a total of €233 decline in commodities in recent Before COVID-19, when people billion to buy them. This intense months has increased those risks. Ratings downgrades argued that the State should be able competition was for bonds that As a result, developing Over recent months, downgrading to offer free health care and free offered a return of -0.26% countries face a significantly by rating agencies have been a major education, among other services, and over ten years, meaning higher cost of borrowing risk facing developing countries with welfare measures, a standard political that an investor who compared to the richer many economies facing higher costs of response was that State resources holds the bond to economies. borrowing as a result of such were limited. Asked by a nurse in maturity will receive less A few large developing downgrades. These downgrades were 2017 why her wages hadn’t increased than they paid today. countries, such as often linked to decline in prices and from 2009 levels, then British Prime The EU is not the Indonesia, Colombia, exports of commodities, as was the Minister, Theresa May, said: “There is only borrower that is India, and the case for diamonds for Botswana and no magic money tree that we can effectively being paid to Philippines have oil for Nigeria. shake that suddenly provides for borrow money. Many begun to follow the In July, following the participation everything that people want.” of the advanced policy adopted by of Ethiopia, Pakistan, Cameroon, Except, a few years later, the economies have the advanced Senegal, and the Ivory Coast in a government has not only been able to been in recent economies of buying World Bank-endorsed G20 debt pay the wages of millions, it has also years and months government bonds to suspension initiative, the rating created rescue packages for selling debt at fund an expanding agency Moody’s took action against thousands of firms and offered people negative rates. For deficit. The risks of those countries, arguing that vouchers to eat out in restaurants. A some countries, the doing this, however, are participation in this scheme increased number of European countries have shift has been higher than the richer the risk for investors in bonds issued also taken the unprecedented step of dramatic. Even countries economies, including a decline by these countries, leading to some underwriting the wages of millions of such as Spain, Italy and Greece in capital inflows. A report by the developing economies avoiding the workers in response to the pandemic. that were previously seen as relatively rating agency S&P Global Ratings initiative in order not to send a How is the British state and others risky borrowers, with Greece going illustrated the differences between “negative signal to the market.” capable of this radical increase in through a major debt crisis, are now those two economies: Zambia is on the verge of being the spending at a time when revenues enjoying borrowing money at very low “Advanced countries typically have first ‘Covid default’ and other from taxes are collapsing? rates. deep domestic capital markets, strong developing countries could face a ‘Magic money tree’ The reason for this phenomenon is public institutions (including similar situation in coming months. that while these bonds are initially independent central banks), low and Access to credit has become a The answer to this lies in the debt bought by ‘traditional’ market stable inflation, and transparency defining factor in the ability of market. Over the past few months, actors, central banks are buying and predictability in economic governments to respond to the world governments have drastically huge quantities of these bonds policies. These attributes allow pandemic. As a result of access to increased their borrowing to cover the once they are circulated in the their central banks to maintain cheap credit, developed economies are costs of the pandemic. It might appear market. large government bond holdings so far able to take such health logical that the cost of credit will go up Poorer countries without losing investor measures while limiting the social and during uncertain economic times. The confidence, creating fear of economic impact of the pandemic. reality, however, is that capital often Not everybody, however, higher inflation, or triggering Many developing countries do not goes to safer sovereign debt during enjoys a similar position in capital outflow. have this luxury. Not everyone gets to economic downturns, particularly as the debt market. While the “Conversely, sovereigns with shake the branches of the magical the equity markets become unstable rich economies are being less credible public institutions money tree. and volatile. chased by investors to take and less monetary, exchange rate Shamel Azmeh is a lecturer in Over recent months, rather than their money, the situation is and fiscal flexibility have less International Development, Global struggling to find lenders or having to radically different for poorer capacity to monetise fiscal deficits Development Institute, University pay more for debt, the governments of countries. Many poor without running the risk of higher of Manchester. A version of this the major economies have been awash countries have limited inflation. This may trigger large article first appeared in The with credit at historically low rates. In access to the credit market capital outflows, devaluing the Conversation and has been October, the EU, until now a small and rely instead on public currency and prompting domestic reprinted under special player in the debt market (as lenders, such as the World interest rates to rise, as seen in arrangement. borrowing mostly is by national Bank. Argentina over parts of the past (Dhaka Tribune) Companies that adapted to COVID-19 could be winners after the vaccine as well By Karen Firestone arriving at a pharmacy near you in the next year, we are not out of the I knew the day was coming, even if Covid-woods yet, with many long an effective vaccine would be months during which adaptation will announced shortly (which it was), my confer profits and higher stock prices. most ‘normal’ activity, playing tennis, It’s not simply the remote stocks was, again, going to succumb to versus the reopening ones. Covid-19 protocols. The virus has Vaccines need to be stored around been surging in my state, with daily the country. Who will do that – cases up over tenfold compared to Amazon warehouses, underutilised or where they were in June. Finally, the anchor stores and shopping malls; decree came down from the State empty downtown office buildings? Will House – we must wear masks in many the product be delivered by UPS, places previously deemed safe, FedEx, the commercial airlines, the including the tennis court. My heart public railroads? sank when I heard the news. Now that millions of Americans have From dejection, I turned to my latest purchased a Peloton, we need stable form of coping: focusing on the ways bikes and treadmills that can fit into in which communities have smaller spaces, to satisfy the strengthened their connections among demands of so many apartment members, and companies have dwellers. That could be Peloton or adapted to the world’s new another supplier. The huge uptick in constraints. With so much suffering home renovation has highlighted the from pandemic fallout, we have also shortage of skilled carpenters, observed how investors so quickly plumbers and electricians. Investors rewarded stocks whose business might relish an opportunity to invest models aligned with remote work and in a safe chain of academies offering life. Zoom, Peloton, Nintendo, quality trade certifications developed Teledoc, and Netflix easily fit that as a start-up, division of a home description. builder, Home Depot or Lowe’s. However, there have also been a There remain wide opportunities for multitude of firms that presciently technology companies to better serve adopted technologies that would applauded these efforts, pushing HD marketing tools,” with a highly chocolate chips and other products for the millions of small businesses trying become essential to Covid-world stock up 27% this year. effective e-demo and CRM system, baking, an activity whose prominence to stay afloat through the coming success, and those who pivoted, In health care, many participants particularly in health care testing has not been so high since the middle months by carefully navigating the stretched and even reconfigured their have been able to leverage their skill equipment. The stock is up 43% in of the last century; developed candy purgatory from deep Covid toward a pre-pandemic strategy, product lines, base toward Covid-testing and 2020. dispensers that were Covid-safe from vaccinated population. and services in ways that were therapies. Thermo Fisher (+50% YTD), Exact Sciences (29+% YTD), whose which children could withdraw Now, could someone please develop unthinkable a half year (or a lifetime) one of the largest life science tools and emphasis has been colon cancer wrapped candy without compromising a mask that keeps my droplets away ago. Home Depot had been expanding diagnostics producers, announced detection, reported meaningful sales social distance; and redesigned all from my partner on the tennis court, its e-commerce capacity for years, US$ 2 billion in Covid-testing in Covid-testing, illustrating their their advertising to coordinate with a protects me, but also lets me breathe? strengthening connectivity across revenues in the third quarter, far flexibility and competence. home-centred existence. Karen Firestone is Chairman, retail locations and pick-up capability, exceeding the most bullish Even a traditional consumer food Although the stock has CEO and co-founder of Aureus Asset which has helped meet the expectations. brands company, Hershey, generated underperformed the S&P 500 so far Management, an investment firm skyrocketing demand for home Mettler-Toledo, an instrumentation higher sales over the Halloween period this year, up 5% versus 10% for the dedicated to providing projects. The company also quickly company, serving the industrial, than a year ago despite so few trick- index, the recent quarter could ignite contemporary asset management repurposed parking lot space for health care, and food markets, was or-treaters and holiday parties. Did I an uptrend to HSY based on the clear to families, individuals and garden and landscape products, able to “accelerate market share gains eat that many Reese’s pieces and Kit success of its ingenuity. institutions. driving sales higher. Investors by enhancing our digital sales and Kat bars? They sold tons more Even with a vaccine possibly (CNBC) B14 Ceylon FT tuesday 17 november 2020 news

COVID Not Withstanding Dreamron Cosmetics conquors Scandinavian market HIP’s Aggressive Marketing Kindai Kagaku Lanka (Pvt.) Limited, BOI registered export division of on RORO Operations Dreamron Group exported it’s second cosmetic products shipment to Norway Pays Dividends in October 2020, making it the second The Hambantota at HIP on 5 November, of the year, “between the Japan, India and China, country in the International Port’s (HIP) discharging 3,869 vehicles months of March and July discharging for Scandinavian region RORO(Roll-on/Roll-off) from Korea, Japan and we saw a drastic drop in transshipment in the company exports operations in the last two China for transshipment to numbers because of the Hambantota. The receiving its Dreamron a GDP of 381 billion become a leading months, has seen a rapid the Middle East. Another lockdown we faced and the ports of these vehicles are branded products Dollars, remains a cosmetic brand in increase in numbers. This 5,560 vehicles which had closures worldwide. This in Central and South range after Sweden. competitive market Norwegian FMCG is a direct result of the come from India bound for change therefore is a very America, East and South Norway with a in Scandinavia for market and further aggressive marketing plans Veracruz in Mexico, were welcome one. This is also Africa and the Middle East. population of over FMCG products. expand its reach in implemented by the loaded onto the vessel. the highest move count Ranasinghe says, “Our five million and a Dreamron is Norway to the Salon Hambantota International Assistant General that HIP has handled in operations have expanded stable economy with determined to Industry as well. Port Group (HIPG) in the Manager - Commercial and 2020 and second highest into used cars going first half of 2020. The Marketing, HIPG, Bindu overall.” through the port as well company’s strategy is now Ranasinghe says, this is a HIP’s hub port status for and in addition there are paying dividends with the vast change from the state RORO in this region, is several new lines and transshipment of of affairs at the beginning well positioned services being added ‘University of the Year’ thousands of vehicles via with vehicles to the HIPG Sri Lanka’s southern port. coming in portfolio.” APIIT SL’s partner Staffordshire The vehicle carrier M.V. from ‘Glovis Champion’ docked Korea, University shortlisted APIIT Sri Lanka, established in of higher education institutions in 1999, is one of the leading and 2019/20 – a year in which reputable private higher education Staffordshire University secured its institutes providing excellence in Teaching Excellence Framework education. Starting with the quality (TEF) Gold rating and climbed to its assurance of the APIIT Diploma highest ever position in UK league programmes in 2000, APIIT Sri tables. Ranked 37th out of 121 Lanka has had a longstanding universities in the UK in the partnership with Staffordshire Guardian League Tables 2020, the University, UK. University has been awarded Gold in Over the years, the award-winning the Teaching Excellence Framework University which has been by the British government in the recognised for its far reaching goals, recent years. which are in sync with global Students who enrol for the requirements, has validated several Staffordshire University degree Computing, Business and Law programmes at APIIT Sri Lanka have awards for delivery at APIIT Sri the advantage of studying the Lanka. identical programme as their With its global recognition and counterparts in the UK with the commitment to excelling in the curriculum being assured of high sphere of education, Staffordshire standards by the Quality Assurance University has been shortlisted in Agency (QAA) for Higher Education the prestigious ‘University of the in the UK. This curriculum is Year’ category at the Times Higher reviewed and revised every five years Education Awards 2020. to include the current developments The virtual ceremony, which will in the relevant discipline and to take place on 26 November 2020, ensure that the latest industry The vehicle carrier M.V. ‘Glovis Champion’ docked at Hambantota International Port will focus solely on the achievements requirements are addressed. sports tuesday 17 november 2020 A15

Profile Player : Nipun Dhananjaya Perera Youth skipper Nipun School : St. Joseph Vaz College Wennappuwa Born on : 2000.09.28 Batting Style : LHB Bowling style : RAOS excels for St Joseph Vaz Batting Sri Lanka youth skipper Clubs 3-day tournament and Matches : 06 Nipun Dhananjaya Perera of Major Under-23 tournament Innings : 10 St. Joseph Vaz College for SSC. He was the leading Not Outs : 00 Wennappuwa performed batsman in the Under-23 Runs : 345 creditably as an all-roUnder in tournament, scoring 376 runs : 34.50 the last season (2019/2020) with a century and three half Ave of the ‘Singer Trophy’ Under-19 centuries in six innings. He Highest Score : 93 against Lumbini Colombo Division One Inter Schools scored 100 runs against 50’s : 2 (93 vs Lumbini Colombo, 54 vs Moratu Vidyalaya) Cricket (Two day) tournament Bloomfield C & AC. Nipun has Bowling conducted by Sri Lanka scored 1,211 runs with eight Runs : 380 Schools Cricket Association. half centuries in 46 Youth ODI Nipun started his career at international matches. Wickets : 32 Academy level Under well- He thanks R.K.J. Average : 11.88 known coach Wasantha Gunasekara, former Principal BBI : 5/27 vs Moratu Vidyalaya Wijesooriya in 2007 and played of Dhammissara NS BBM : 7/49 vs Moratu Vidyalaya for his school (Dhammissara Nattandiya, Rev. Fr. National School Nattandiya) in Priyanjeewa Gunarathne, 5W’s : 2 (5/27 vs Moratu Vidyalaya, 5/80 vs St. Thomas Matara) 2008 Under coach Tharanga Nipun Dhananjaya current Principal of St. Joseph Best all-round performance in a match : 93, 06, 3/18 & 4/23 vs Lumbini Colombo Liyanapathirana. He was in the Trophy inter district and inter centuries and claimed 39 Vaz, Masters-In-Charge Keerthi Under-13 team from 2008 to provincial tournament the wickets in the six matches he Jayasekara (Dhammissara NS), 2012. same year. He also led the Sri played during the 2017/18 Dinesh Randeer Fared this Season Batting Bowling He joined St. Joseph Vaz in Lanka Schools Under-15 team season. He was selected to the Karunanayake, Amil Asanka, 2013, and playing for the on the Malaysia tour. Sri Lanka youth team in 2017 Amila Prasad (St. Joseph Vaz), Vs Zahira Colombo 41 & 33 4/25 Under-13 scored 488 runs with He scored 396 runs with a for the Youth Asia Cup in his first coach Wasantha Vs Lumbini Colombo 93 & 06 3/18 & 4/23 a double century, a century century and two half centuries Malaysia in 2017. He scored Wijesooriya, school coaches of Vs Moratu Vidyalaya 54 2/22 & 5/27 and two fifties, and claimed 12 and claimed 6 wickets in the 696 runs with a century and both schools Tharanga Vs St. Thomas Matara 21 & 44 5/80 wickets Under Tharanga Under-17 season in 2016. He three fifties and claimed 37 Liyanapathirana, Nuwan Liyanapathirana. represented North-Western wickets in nine matches of the Ruchira, Hirantha Praveen, Vs Wesley Colombo 13 & 03 4/55 & 2/53 He scored 251 runs and Provincial Under-19 team in 2018/19 season. He scored District coach Sanjaya Vs Devapathiraja Rathgama 37 1/02 & 2/74 claimed 11 wickets in the inter- the Under-19 Provincial 2-day 345 runs with two fifties and Rajapaksha, Provincial coach schools’ Under-15 tournament tournament in 2016. Skipper claimed 32 wickets in six Harsha Gamadhikari, coaches in 2014. He represented the Nipun scored 520 runs with a matches with two 5-wickets of Sri Lanka youth Roy Dias, Puttalam District and North century and a half century and hauls in the 2019/20 season. Hashan Thilakaratne, Schools Under 19 - Div 1 Western Province team at the claimed 18 wickets in the He missed many school Chaminda Vaz, Upul Batting Prima Champions Trophy inter Under-17 season in 2017. He matches as he was on national Chandana, Sachith Pathirana, M I NO R HS Ave SR 100’s 50’s 6’s 4’s Cts district and inter provincial represented the Provincial duty. Chamila Gamage, Mahinda 53 83 7 2897 165 38.12 62.21 7 14 23 289 45 tournaments the same year. Under-19 team in 2018 and the He represented the Sri Lanka Halangoda (Manager SL Under- The left-handed batsman Dambulla team in the Under- Under-19 team from 2017 - 19), coach Thilina Kandambi Bowling scored 530 runs with a double 19 super provincial Asia Cup Malaysia (2017), (SSC), Chandana Guruge M I O R W Ave BBI BBM Econ 5Ws 10Ws century and claimed 14 tournament in 2018. Youth World Cup (2018) in (Manager - SSC), OBA St. 53 73 1092.5 2797 194 14.42 8/55 11/66 2.56 16 4 wickets in 2015 as skipper. He He scored 473 runs and took India. He led the Sri Lanka Joseph Vaz, old boys Kanishka was adjudicated the best 21 wickets in the 2015/16 Under-19 for the Asia Cup in Wijesinghe, Ajith Pieris (Joseph batsman and best player of the Under-19 season. In the 2018. He led Sri Lanka youth Vaz), academic and non- tournament in the Under-15 2016/17 season he scored 880 team against Bangladesh, academic staff of both schools, Youth Internationals schools’ tournament. He led runs with three centuries and Australia, Pakistan and West past cricketers, team-mates, Batting (Youth ODIs) the Puttalam District and five half centuries and claimed Indies, in the Asia Cup (2019) their parents and his family M I NO R HS Ave SR 100’s 50’s 6’s 4’s Cts North-Western Province team 71 wickets. He scored 369 runs and Youth World Cup (2020). members. at the Prima Champions with a century and three half He played in the Premier (IR) 46 45 6 1211 92 31.05 75.45 0 8 16 88 19

Three new playing IPL cash-cow delivers even in COVID times conditions The robust appeal of the Indian financial numbers about the Premier League (IPL) was once league. The IPL’s eight franchises again highlighted this year after were ushered into a bio-secure introduced for BBL the world’s richest Twenty20 bubble in August to play 60 league escaped the economic matches across three venues, all Power Surge, X-Factor and aftermath of the COVID-19 behind closed doors, and Mumbai pandemic with only a few minor Indians claimed a record fifth IPL scratches. title. Bash Boost The Indian Cricket Board’s “It’s been a great success given Welcome to the era of the Power The man behind the (BCCI) league, which has an the current scenario globally,” Surge, X-Factor and Bash Boost in innovations estimated brand value of $6.8 BCCI Treasurer Arun Singh the BBL. Trent Woodhill, the Big Bash’s Tim Paine with Steven Smith billion, drew record television and Dhumal told Reuters. “Everybody Three new playing conditions player acquisition and cricket digital viewership, and at least had their fingers crossed whether have been confirmed for this year’s consultant, has played a big part in one of its franchises even grew its we’d be able to pull it off.” 10th edition. The changes involve these changes. He believes the new Tim Paine in revenue despite the league being Starved of live cricket action for new Powerplay regulations, the playing conditions will increase the first postponed and then shifted nearly nine months, the world’s ability to sub in a player at a role of the coach and also generate to the United Arab Emirates second most populous nation sat specific stage of the game and a new narratives during a match. self-isolation following the coronavirus surge in glued to television sets, lapping point on offer for being ahead of the “What it will do is force coaches to Cluster of COVID-19 India. up every bit of action from the opposition at the halfway mark of start looking at what they’re going Cancelling the whole UAE. In terms of viewership, the the chase. to do, I reckon that’s powerful,” cases in South Australia tournament would have left a IPL even outperformed some of Power Surge Woodhill told ESPNcricinfo. “That’s South Australia has seen a surge in $536 million hole in the pocket the pay-per-view matches of the The traditional six-over Powerplay what’s great about AFL, NRL, COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. The State for the world’s richest Cricket Premier League in Britain. will be scrapped, replaced by a basketball, the NFL, baseball. I Governments have already started developing Board, which rarely shares (Reuters) mandatory four-over block at the can’t wait for the day where a coach plans regarding the outbreak of the novel start of the innings with the subs a player after one over - coronavirus in the southern part of the remaining two overs able to be players and coaches will hate it at country. Everyone who participated in the taken by the batting team at any times, but now there’s no hiding Sheffield Shield have been asked to self- point from the 11th over of the place.” quarantine. Players and support staff hailing innings onwards. He believes the changes strike the from Tasmania, Western Australia, New X-Factor right balance between innovation South Wales, Queensland and Victoria all The Super Sub is back, but with without altering the fundamentals returned home from their Sheffield Shield a tweak. At the 10-over mark of the of the game. He also knows - and hub in Adelaide last week. first innings each team will have the hopes - that people have different (Agencies) chance to substitute one of their views on the changes, whether they starting XI with either the 12th or are involved in the game itself or 13th player who was on the watching on. nominated team sheet. However, The reasoning behind the player being replaced can’t yet Powerplay regulations have batted in the match or can’t On the change to the Powerplay have bowled more than an over. regulation, Woodhill said there had And the substitution of the player been discussion on keeping the six Endurance Cyclist Jen Orr can only happen at the 10-over overs at the start and adding mark so, for example, if a bowler is another small period of restrictions injured in his first over early in the to be used at a later stage, but he innings he can’t be replaced felt that would have pushed the breaks multiple World Records immediately. balance too far to the batsmen. Bash Boost The other key change to the BBL She is Brand Ambassador of R4C There will now be four points this season has been to allow sides By M.H.Yakeem • New Record: ​Most miles cycled in exactly according to plan and are available for winning a match - to field three overseas players in 6 hours by a female - 113.11 miles ecstatic about the results.” instead of the previous two - with their XI. The tournament will get Brand Ambassador of Ride for • New Record: ​Fastest 200 KM The greatest all-time female ultra- three points available for outright underway on 10 December. Venues Ceylon Jen Orr’s attempt to break cycled by a female – 6.35.58 endurance cyclist Seana Hogan said, victory and the extra point being for matches in January have yet to the World Ultra Cycling Association • New Record: ​Fastest 300 KM “Watching Jen grow as a strong given to the team who is ahead on be confirmed with Cricket Australia (WUCA) 24-hour SOLO Female World cycled by a female - 10.26.36 ultracyclist should inspire everyone. the comparison at the 10-over mark hopeful they will be able to take Record of 439.65 miles, fell short • New Record: ​Fastest 200 MILES Her tenacity and perseverance are of the chase. If the team scores are advantage of easing border with 410.88 miles completed in the cycled by a female – 11.15.06 truly amazing. I know she has more level at 10 overs, that point is split - restrictions. 24-hour time allotment.Jen (43) is a • New Record: ​Fastest 300 MILES to come!”. 0.5 to each time. (ESPN) physical therapist from Murrieta, cycled by a female – 16.55.47 Asked if she will make another CA. The attempt took place on 7 • Established Record: ​Fa​stest 500 attempt at the 24-hour record, Orr November in Borrego Springs, CA on km cycled by a female - 17.33.18 replied “There are already plans in a 10-mile (on-road) circuit, and was After the race, Orr was elated with the making to return to Borrego observed by WUCA for certification her performance and humbled by the Springs in early 2021 to establish verification. Weather conditions put distance and weather factors. Orr the solo distance records for 500 a strain on Orr’s efforts with an said, “Unfortunately, the weather miles and 1000 km, and hope to unexpected wind and rainstorm conditions impacted my physical break the 24-hour record at that lowering temperatures and delivering efforts but did not affect my mental time as well.” winds ranging from 20 to 50 mph. focus or drive to give it my all for As Brand Ambassador of R4C, Jen In spite of the conditions, Orr set 24-hours. The weather factor was is hoping to visit Sri Lanka in the not several endurance cycling records out of my control, but otherwise my too distant future to participate in (pending WUCA certification): crew and I performed our tasks charity rides. A16 tuesday 17 november 2020 sports Poor progress results in two athletes losing IOC funding Six SL athletes to receive Nilani Rathnayaka included IOC increases Olympic IOC funding in 2021 in 2021 scholarship list Solidarity Budget

By Anjana Kaluarachchi Sri Lanka IOC Solidarity scholarship Two track and field athletes, Vidusha Lakshani and recipients Gayanthika Abeyrathne, have been removed from the Sri Thilanka Palagasinghe Lanka’s International Olympic (Weightlifting) - USD Committee (IOC) Solidarity 670 per month Scholarship recipients list Chamara targeting the 2021 Olympic Dharmawardhana (Judo) Games, after a progress - USD 1000 per month review. Matthew Abeysinghe Both athletes received USD (Swimming) - USD 1000 670 per month from 2016 post per month Rio Olympic era till 2020, but Chamara lately both Sri Lanka Athletics Perera(Wrestling) - USD (SLA) and National Olympic 670 per month Committee (NOCSL) had Chamara Darmawardana (Pic by Thusith Wijedoru (NOC) Nilani Rathnayaka agreed that their lack of (Athletics) - USD 670 per progress does not entitle them month to further continuance of the Milka Gehani (Artistic scholarship. Milka Gehani Thiwanka Palagasinghe Gymnastic) – In Japan “IOC asked whether we are training under IOC –OS continuing with same list of Fund athletes following top performer at the moment the said scholarship for a postponement of Tokyo2020 and only one within Olympic while, but since he did not Olympics to 2021, before qualification range), and even represent the country extending the Solidarity Javelin thrower Sumedha that scholarship was given to per cent for the 2021 to 2024 Scholarship for a year. They Ranasinghe (who represented 400m runner Chandrika period (total $590 million) also asked for a progress SL at the 2016 Rio Olympic Subashini Rasnayake during an Executive Board review of the scholarship and next closest to Olympic targeting the 2016 Olympics, meeting. recipients. Sadly, the qualification) - for the but her performance went The Olympic Solidarity performances of both these scholarship. down after 2014, while budget allocated to athlete athletes (Vidusha and However, NOC has agreed to Gayanthika and Vidusha did support programmes has also Gayanthika) weren’t up to Nilani Rathnayake’s selection not impress by 2020, and been increased by 25 per cent expectation. The target of this but given the other none of them got even close to for the next quadrennial. scholarship was to ensure scholarship to 30 year old the Olympic qualification In addition, the budget they got at least close to wrestler Chamara Perera. Chamara Perera Nilani Rathnayaka Matthew Abeysinghe mark. allocated for national activities Olympic qualification, but it Perera impressed at the 2014 “Every time our athletes has been increased to the has not been the case ” said Commonwealth Games but the Olympics, “said NOCSL Poor performance by receive something, they don’t equivalent of $500,000 per Senior SLA official. didn’t make the team in 2018, Secretary Maxwell de Silva in Athletics Scholars perform. This sets a bad National Olympic Committee Apart from that, both SLA and could only manage Silver response. precedent for the future, (NOC), and continent-specific and NOCSL too confirmed in the most recent South “We were not happy about Over the last decade it has where deserving athletes may programme budgets have been they faced problems with their Asian Games. the decision, but NOCSL been a common factor that lose out from further increased by 24 per cent. financial settlements, since “We gave two slots for promised that they will athletes who receive the IOC scholarship opportunities, as Olympic Solidarity had the scholarship was disbursed athletics for three years and arrange another scholarship Solidarity Scholarship have athletes who receive already increased funding to by way of reimbursement of their poor progress means we opportunity for Sumedha, not shown any improvement something doesn’t perform,” NOCs following the bills submitted by the should at least give another which we are now waiting for,” over the years, but in contrast the SLA official lamented. postponement of the Tokyo athletes. sport a chance. Wrestler said the SLA official. their performance goes down IOC Increases Funding 2020 Olympic and Meanwhile, SLA has Chamara is on top of his Along with these changes, and they fail to at least Paralympics Games, with the nominated two other athletes - game. He has performed well IOC (through NOCSL) achieve Olympic qualification. Meanwhile, IOC has budget for the IOC subsidies 3000m steeple chase runner and we expect to send him for sponsors six athletes targeting Australian based pole vaulter increased the budget of programme increased by Nilani Rathnayake(country’s training to Mongolia before the 2021 Olympic Games. Muditha Jayasekara received Olympic Solidarity (OS) by 16 $10.3 million.

Arjuna raises OVEP reaches super-eight stage Six Girl’s schools and two Final set for Monday 23 November rounds will be worked off on 21 questions about LPL boy’s schools qualified for the and 22 November, with the final Olympic Values Education Colombo, Mahamaya Girl’s Value Education was a major on Monday (23rd).” Programme (OVEP) conducted College Kandy, Kingswood theme of the Annual Olympic De Silva further said even by the National Olympic College Kandy and Pinnawela Academy of NOCSL. among the schools who could Committee of Sri Lanka via the Central College Rambukkana. In 2017, NOCSL was able to not make it to the final, there zoom technology over the At the end of the grueling two- take another major step by were some noteworthy weekend. day session Royal, Sirimavo organising an inter-school performances. He said In a high quality programme, Bandaranaike, Dharmaraja, debate concept and conducted a especially one contestant from ideas and views of 60 debaters Chundikuli Girl’s, Good Pilot Debate Programme with St. Vincent Girl’s High Batticaloa from twenty top schools around Shepherd Kandy, Hillwood the participation of twenty came up with a very impressive the island were exchanged and Kandy, Devi Balika and leading schools in Sri Lanka. argument on the subject of showcased. The schools were Musaeus argued their way into Commenting on the occasion, doping which astounded many Royal College Colombo 7, the second round. The super- Secretary General NOCSL who followed the Sirimavo Bandaranaike eight sessions are scheduled to Maxwell de Silva – one of the programme. This goes on to Vidyalaya Colombo 7, be arranged during the coming mentors of the Lankan leg of the prove that the schoolchildren of Dharmaraja College Kandy, week. event said: “The programme has today are very literate on the Methodist College Colombo 3, The National Olympic already been a huge success in events at hand. Chundikuli Girl’s College Committee of Sri Lanka the international Olympic forum Finally, de Silva dwelled upon Jaffna, Gateway College (NOCSL) was invited to attend with several affiliated the subject of the younger Dehiwala, Trinity College the 8th World Conference on organisations around the globe generation being physically fit. Kandy, Good Shepherd Convent Sport, Education, and Culture – congratulating us for the He said in the days of yore Kandy, Musaeus College Olympism: powered by Youth manner in which we have physical fitness was a school Colombo 7, Hillwood College and Education on 25-27 launched the programme subject where a period was Kandy, Devi Balika Vidyalaya November 2012, Amsterdam, meticulously. allocated especially for that. Colombo 8, Vincent Girls High Holland. As an outcome of “There were twenty schools Sadly, now it has become a thing School Batticaloa, Girl’s High NOCSL’s participation, it was involved in the first round, and of the past, and as a result, this School Kandy, Gateway College able to establish a sound at the end of the second day we generation is gradually moving Colombo, St. John’s College foundation to promote Olympic pruned it down to eight, who away from sports and physical Jaffna, Anuradhapura Central Educational Values in Sri will fight it out in the super- fitness, which is a must for a College, Bishop’s College Lanka. Since 2012, the Olympic eight stage. The super-eight healthy future generation.

Former World Cup winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga questioned the legitimacy of Sri Lanka LPL Cricket’s franchise based T20 league Lanka Premier League (LPL) in a letter addressed to Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa. Whatmore pulls out, In the letter he has highlighted allegations against some of the individuals who are involved in the LPL, and has also raised six question regarding the league Gibbs rejoins as follows: 1. Does this league have ICC approval? Is it a direct Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup cricketer Herschelle Gibbs, who had involvement? winning coach Dav Whatmore has earlier been dropped from the LPL 2. Does ICC anti-corruption officials participate in pulled out of the Lanka Premier commentary panel, has rejoined the this league? League (LPL citing personal reasons. panel. The original six-member 3. If not, what is the code of conduct regarding anti- He was named head coach of panel included Gibbs, but the corruption? Colombo Kings and will now be updated panel did not have Gibbs 4. With whom do players sign contracts - with SLC or replaced by former English Cap name, which made Gibbs take to team owners? Kabir Ali. twitter to show his displeasure. 5. Can SLC control this league? If so, which areas? A day before another coach, John “Ok the air has been cleared and 6. Does SLC have knowledge about owners of teams? Lewis, pulled out from coaching we good to go for me being part of Earlier, SLC stated they had sold total rights of the Dambulla Vikings, and has been the commentary team for the @ LPL to the Dubai-based company IPG, who is replaced by Englishman Owais LPLT20_ @ipg_productions@ responsible for finding owners and conducting the Herschelle Gibbs Shah. OfficialSLC. See you soon” Gibbs Dav Whatmore tournament, while SLC will only provide venues and Meanwhile, former South Africa tweeted yesterday. match officials for the tournament.

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