www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 24,402,292 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,984 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 6,009,642 183,880 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 831,006 BRAZIL 3,674,176 116,666 INDIA 3,333,732 60,848 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 975,576 16,804 12 2,830 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 16,926,223 S. AFRICA 615,701 13,502 THE ABOVE STATISTICS142 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 5.00 P.M. ON 27 AUGUST 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

SRI LANKANS IN MIDDLE EAST MOU ON PALALI AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT PROJECT Repatriation to continue, not halted: SLFEB Drafted and z Pending availability of quarantine facilities stopped. It is still ongoing, subject BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA to the availability of quarantine Dispelling recent reports, the Sri SLFEB Media Spokesman facilities,” he said. The necessary Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau R.K.K.M.P. Randeniya said He further stated that reports documents for the Palali (SLFEB) said that the repatriation the repatriation process is of stopping the process were Airport development of Sri Lankans from Middle Eastern still ongoing. unsubstantiated. awaiting project have been countries has not been halted. “The repatriation process has not Contd. on page 2 submitted to the Treasury subcommittee COVID-19 for approval, The Morning learnt. Minister of Tourism Prasanna Threat from approval: Ranatunga said the required document pertaining to the illegal immigrants Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been drafted. BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA issued by the authorities as “The paperwork has been there was a threat posed by drafted and submitted to the SJB-UNP ALLIANCE Ministry of Health Chief illegal immigrants from other Treasury subcommittee on MoUs Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath countries, especially India where for approval,” he said, adding Discussions Samaraweera urged the public to the pandemic is still at large, Minister that Cabinet approval would be be vigilant and follow all Covid- spreading the virus in . z Document with z Submission next to sought thereafter. focus on Sajith’s 19-related health guidelines Contd. on page 2 Treasury subcommittee Cabinet of Ministers Contd. on page 2 leadership (SJB) PCOI SUMMONS FORMER COPE CHAIRMAN National Organiser MP said that discussions are underway to Cannot summon without suggest an alliance between SJB and the (UNP), with a permission: Speaker probable suggestion of appointing Leader of the Opposition at Parliament Sajith Speaker of Parliament Committee on Public Premadasa as the leader of the UNP. Enterprises (COPE) to testify Contd. on page 2 yesterday (27) said a about evidence/material Presidential Commission gathered by the respective of Inquiry (PCoI) cannot parliamentary committee summon members of during one of its VIASL SURVEY ON IMPORTED VEHICLES Minister warns parliamentary investigative inquiries. Speaker Mahinda MPS' MEALS IN PARLIAMENT of looming committees like the Contd. on page 2 Yapa Abeywardena Fish meal costs Survey completed, data 1ST PVT. MEMBER’S MOTION unemployment DENGUE ERADICATION Bill declaring Rs. 951, veg Rs. 629 release shortly: VIASL z Proposes five-year plan to revive SLAF deploys The meals served to foreign employment sector minimum parliamentarians in the House The results of the survey conducted by the Vehicle Importers Association drones for became a hot topic last Wednesday on the total number of imported of Sri Lanka (VIASL), its Secretary State Minister of Foreign Employment marriage age (26) following a speech delivered vehicles available in Sri Lanka at Arosh Rodrigo told The Morning. Promotions and Market Diversification assistance by a parliamentary official on the present would be made public soon Contd. on page 2 said the country is The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), presented final day of the two-day orientation heading into an unemployment crisis in response to a request made by the The first Private Member’s workshop organised by Parliament come January 2021, due to the high Western Province Governor, agreed to Bill of the ninth Parliament for first-time legislators. ONE LAW FOR ALL number of returning migrant workers use drone technology to locate potential has been submitted by losing their jobs in foreign countries dengue mosquito breeding grounds, governing party Member of Matale Mayor as a result of Covid-19. the Air Force Media Unit revealed. Parliament (MP) Pramitha Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Bandara Tennakoon. suspended from post Contd. on page 2 Mayor of the Matale Municipal Council Daljith Nandalal Aluvihare was temporarily suspended from his post with immediate effect. Cabinet subcommitte on cost of living The Cabinet of Ministers granted its approval to appoint the Cabinet Subcommittee on Cost of Living (CoL). SJBers in contradiction Two parliamentarians representing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), led by Opposition Leader , yesterday (27) made contradictory statements in the House regarding Member of Parliament (MP) C.V. Wigneswaran’s maiden speech in the Ninth Parliament. SEE FULL STORIES Claiming to represent the entire community of Muslim women in the country, ON PAGE 2 a Muslim woman was on her way with her family to hand over a letter to the Presidential Secretariat, requesting the practice of one law for all in Sri Lanka Amendments to labour laws z Minister hints at expediting grievance hearings filed with reference to workforce compensation matters. BY SARAH HANNAN of Labour Nimal Siripala de , “The Rs. 550,000 currently the Minister had announced that being paid under the Employees’ The Ministry of Labour is considering amendments are to be applied to the (Workmen’s) Compensation Ordinance, amending a handful of labour laws to Employees’ Provident Fund Act to the which was a longstanding demand of expedite the hearing of grievance cases Labour Tribunal, Payment of Gratuity trade unions and the working people, of the country’s workforce which seems Act, Wage Boards Ordinance, Shop and will be increased to Rs. 2 million, and to have created a backlog at magistrate Office Employees Act, and Budgetary the power to hear such cases will be courts. Relief Allowance of Workers Act of handed over to Labour Tribunals,” de During a recent discussion between 2016, enabling Labour Tribunals Silva had said. the Department of Labour and Minister to attend to the grievances that are Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Friday , August 28, 2020

Contd. from page 1 Drafted and... should be given equal rights despite their the MP at a subsidised rate of Rs. 200. 13 foreigners nationalities and that this law should be However, following the objections raised “The drafted papers are on the new established in the country without delay. by several governing party MPs, the Deputy items our Government has included as Secretary General of Parliament has said well as funding for the project. Once that the audit unit of the House has clarified the Treasury has approval, it will be put Matale Mayor... that a fish meal served to an MP is valued at arrested over before the Cabinet for approval as well,” Central Province Governor, Attorney- Rs. 951 while a vegetarian meal is valued Ranatunga said. at-Law Lalith U. Gamage announced the at Rs. 629. The Palali Airport is to be developed suspension issuing an extraordinary gazette Below are excerpts of the dialogue that had to serve as a regional airport and an notification. taken place between the MPs and parliament international airport thereafter. Meanwhile, the Governor appointed Judge officials over the controversial statement visa violations Funding for the project is to be Sarojini Kusala Weerawardena to inquire into on the value of a meal served to legislators A group of foreigners were arrested in brought into and channelled by the Indian Government the irregularities committed by the Mayor in the House. Mount Lavinia on Wednesday (26), for in the possession of one of and the MoU is to be signed between Sri of Matale. “Is this meal valued at Rs. 3,000? We violating visa regulations. the arrestees, were seized. Lanka and India. The report on the alleged misdeeds of the had this meal during these two days,” State The suspects, aged Mayor is to be handed over within three Minister Dr. has said, The arrests were the result females who were staying at between 20 and 44 years, months, the Gazette Notification read further. being the first to raise objections. of a raid that was carried out a lodge down De Seram Road who were handed over to Repatriation to... In addition, current Deputy Mayor of Other MPs have also joined in, saying it by the officers of the Special in Mount Lavinia, were taken the Mount Lavinia Police for “There has been no official notice the Matale Municipal Council Sandanam was embarrassing for MPs to consume a Task Force Camp in Pugoda into custody accordingly. further investigations, were from the Foreign Ministry about halting Prakash was directed to take over the duties meal valued at Rs. 3,000 at Rs. 200. at around 6.30 p.m. that day. A haul of 10,300 sticks produced before the Mount the repatriation process. What is being of the Mayor, utilising the powers vested “We don’t see that this meal is worth Thirteen Chinese and Thai of foreign-manufactured Lavinia Magistrate’s Court circulated is not an official statement.” in the post. Rs. 3,000. We can bring our meals from nationals, including nine cigarettes that were illegally yesterday (27). – Skandha Gunasekara home and consume; we don’t need food from Parliament if this is the case,” Amendments... Attorney-at-Law MP Premnath Dolawatte Survey... Meanwhile, the National Trade has said. “We have already completed the survey Union Front (NTUF) noted that most The Deputy Secretary General and are now finalising the data collected. of these amendments that are proposed responded to these objections, saying: Committee on P’ment Hopefully, we will make the survey results to be applied would be beneficial to the “Let’s decide (this) in the future. I just public today (28),” he said. employer and not the employee. received a message from the audit unit The Government imposed a complete “The Minister says that the that a fish meal served to an MP is valued Business appointed ban on motor vehicles since March 2020, compensation would be increased, at Rs. 951 while a vegetarian meal is The Committee on Parliamentary 9. Prof. G.L. Peiris citing foreign currency outflows as the but only the employee would know valued at Rs. 629.” Business headed by Speaker of Parliament 10. main reason. This measure was strictly the hardships they would have to go Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena was 11. imposed, and even those vehicles with through just to claim that compensation. announced in the House yesterday (27). 12. already established Letters of Credit (LCs) Amendments need to be proposed with Cannot summon... The Committee on Parliamentary 13. are not permitted into the country. the consultation of trade unions as well. The Speaker made this observation in Business consists of 26 Members of 14. Rodrigo stressed that there was a huge However, we have not been approached response to a question posed by Janatha Parliament. 15. community of vehicle importers, from by a private or state official regarding Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Leader MP Following are the 25 legislators selected 16. large scale to sole trader level, and stated this,” NTUF Co-Convenor Ravi Anura Kumara Dissanayake. to the Committee: 17. Gayantha Karunatilleka that vehicle importers provide various Kumudesh noted. Dissanayake informed the House 1. 18. employment opportunities. Kumudesh and the rest of the members yesterday that former COPE Chairman 2. 19. Anura Kumara Dissanayake “As there is a ban on motor vehicle noted that a dialogue needs to take place and then MP has been 3. 20. imports, vehicle importers as well as between ministry officials, Department summoned by a PCoI to give evidence 4. Sajith Premadasa 21. related service providers have faced severe of Labour officials, and trade unions that on information gathered/received on the 5. 22. difficulties maintaining their business represent the various sectors in order to Batticaloa Campus by COPE during his 6. 23. premises and in paying the salaries of their truly understand the issues that they have tenure as its Head. 7. 24. M.A. Sumanthiran employees,” he shared. been facing – namely, salary increments Dissanayake pointed out that according 8. 25. Mohamed Ali Sabry Local manufacturing and assembling, to be duly processed, career progression to the laws that govern Parliament, however, is not the solution to the issues in state institutes, and the ability to members of parliamentary investigative detailed above. The VIASL strongly be promoted to higher administrative committees cannot be summoned by a believes that this process does not add positions based on work experience and PCoI to testify about information received any value to the country’s economy and is grades in the respective carder. by the respective parliamentary body. merely designed for tax evasion and higher The Speaker in response said that he profit margins. would look into the matter. “We urge the Government to come Minister warns... However, when Dissanayake pointed up with a fixed plan detailing exact “We will have to initiate a five-year plan out that Handunnetti has already written a dates when the complete motor vehicle starting from 2021 to revive the pandemic- letter to the Speaker of Parliament about importation ban will be lifted. Until impacted foreign employment sector. the matter, Abeywardena acknowledged such time, imports should be allowed We will look at streamlining the future receipt of the letter and said he would for vehicles with already established activities to ensure that the Sri Lanka respond accordingly. LCs, as our members have committed to Bureau for Foreign Employment sustains “Were you informed by the PCoI 4 nabbed for selling purchasing those units,” he stressed. and will be able to negotiate better job that the former COPE Chairman is – Maheesha Mudugamuwa offers from countries willing to keep our being summoned to give evidence over migrant workers and recruit new groups,” information gathered by the parliamentary Jayaratne noted. committee?” Dissanayake questioned. stolen vehicles on FB SJBers in... A programme will be implemented as “No,” the Speaker responded. Four members of an Gampaha Police. The scammers had carried SJB MP , who soon as possible to obtain information on Dissanayake further asked whether the organised group, involved Preliminary investigations out the fraud through a last week raised objection to a statement workers who register with the Bureau in PCoI could summon the former Head of in a racket of selling stolen have revealed that the gang Facebook page, claiming made by Wigneswaran and called for each country and apply for employment, COPE without informing the Speaker and motorbikes and three- had stolen motorbikes and low prices for motorbikes, certain lines in the speech to be expunged the State Minister added. ask the COPE Chief to reveal information wheelers, have been arrested three-wheelers from the the Police stated. from the Hansard of the Parliament, once He noted that expatriate workers aim to gathered by the committee that is governed by the Gampaha Police. areas of Kandana, Ja-Ela, The Police have found again raised the issue and called for the come to Sri Lanka after working abroad by parliament law. The suspects have been and Wattala and sold them 13 motorbikes and three removal of the comments. and making a living, and added that job “No,” the Speaker responded. arrested on a raid based on with fake number plates for three-wheelers stolen by In his maiden speech, Wigneswaran losses due to the corona epidemic are a a tip-off received by the lower prices. the gang. noted the need to recognise the rights of strain on the country’s existing job market the Tamil people and their right to self- and economy, as these migrant workers Threat from... determination. who are returning due to job losses will According to Dr. Samaraweera, there Nanayakkara last week called for face difficulties finding jobs within the was a threat posed by illegal immigrants Suspect arrested with drugs, these comments to be removed from the country upon arrival. from different countries including India, Hansard and once again raised the issue – Sarah Hannan and if such an immigrant was Covid- yesterday, saying his request has not been 19-positive, there is a threat of the virus cash, and ATM cards addressed. spreading within society. A team of officers from the in the area of Orugodawatta, the However, SJB alliance member MP Cabinet... He told The Morning that there was no Crimes Division (CCD) has arrested an Police said. Rauff Hakeem said in Parliament that The relevant proposal was tabled by such threat in society at present, but the individual who was in possession of 3 In addition, cash valued at Rs. 600,000, every MP should respect the freedom of President . public should be vigilant and follow all the kgs of heroin. several ATM cards, as well as a vehicle speech. The proposed Cabinet Subcommittee health guidelines. The suspect was taken into custody were also seized by the CCD officers. is tasked with working to keep the cost Meanwhile, the Government Medical of living stable by providing policies and Officers’ Association (GMOA) urged the Discussions... practical solutions focusing on market law enforcement authorities to monitor Speaking to The Morning, Attanayake demand and supply fluctuations, weather whether the public was adhering to the noted: “The people’s choice became effects, seasonal product changes, and Covid-19-related health guidelines as the Cartoon of the day obvious when the SJB members were international market prices. coronavirus threat would be in the country elected to Parliament with more votes Prime Minister , for another year at least. than the UNP members. Given that Sajith Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Premadasa is now recognised as the Gunawardana, Minister of Agriculture Leader of the Opposition at Parliament, , Minister SLAF deploys... we only see that it is fitting to give him the of Fisheries Douglas Devananda, and The Public Health Division of the opportunity to lead the UNP.” Minister of Plantation Dr. Ramesh Western Province collaborated with He reiterated that should the UNP refuse Pathirana will serve as members of the the Sri Lanka Air Force in carrying to hand over the leadership to Premadasa, relevant subcommittee, which is chaired out the surveillance exercise recently, they are willing to form an alliance with by the President. and the drone mapping in that regard the UNP to contest in the upcoming local The Cabinet of Ministers also approved was done at Wellawaththa, Wadduwa, government elections. the participation of the following Biyagama BOI Zone, Wathupitiwala, All these are probabilities and are still State Ministers for the functions of the Obeysekarapura, Rajagiriya, Peliyagoda, under discussion among the members of subcommittee on CoL. Kelaniya, Kolonnawa, and Piliyandala as both SJB and UNP, he stressed. State Minister of Paddy and Cereals, these have been identified as areas with The proposals are yet to be presented Organic Food, Vegetables, Fruits, Chillies, a high prevalence of dengue over the to the senior members of the UNP, such Onions and Potatoes, Seed Production, past months. as and incumbent UNP and High-tech Agriculture Shasheendra “The drones will be used to monitor Leader . Rajapaksa difficult-to-access areas, abandoned – Sarah Hannan State Minister of Coconut, Fishtail Palm, properties that are locked to the public. Palmyra, and Rubber Product Promotion, The drones will be capturing these areas and Allied Industrial Production and and will be geo-tagging as well, so that Bill declaring... Export Diversification action against hosting such breeding The parliamentarian has said the relevant grounds by private or corporate property Bill was handed over to Secretary General owners can be taken accordingly. The of Parliament Dhammika Dasanayake on Fish meal... amount of areas that can be monitored Wednesday (26). The Financial Director of Parliament, will increase as we continue to use The Bill is aimed at declaring the during his speech on the financial benefits this technique,” Dengue Control Unit minimum age of marriage for children as enjoyed by the members of Parliament, has Director Dr. Anura Jayasekara told The 18 years. said that a meal served to a parliamentarian Morning. Tennakoon has insisted that children is valued at Rs. 3,000, while it is served to – Sarah Hannan the morning Friday , August 28, 2020 3 business Sri Lanka Telecom applauds number

High Commission of India, Colombo, Head – Economic and Commercial Dr. Rakesh Pandey and Lanka IOC Managing Director portability plan Manoj Gupta commissioning the petrol shed in the presence of local dealers, esteemed customers, and prominent persons of the area Sri Lanka Telecom Group said it welcomes the Telecommunication economy,” the company said in a the number portability solution to Regulatory Commission (TRC)’s progressive moves towards press release. our customers. We have invented bringing number portability to Sri Lanka. “We are the nation’s a basket of solutions that can telecommunication service transform any local enterprise. Lanka IOC It said one of the first decisions of communication solutions to provider. Our mandate is to enable We are determined to give our taken by the new Board of a transformational nation on the the country’s transformation. prepaid and postpaid customer SLT was to lobby for number cusp of unparalleled development. Sri Lanka Telecom and Mobitel base unparalleled 5G speeds, commissions portability in Sri Lanka. SLT believes this technological are brands of the people of convenience, and affordability,” “The SLT Group, being the convenience will support His Sri Lanka and we will serve added Group CEO Lalith fastest network connecting Sri Excellency the President’s every requirement necessary Seneviratne. new petrol shed Lanka’s deep rural to the world, is Saubhagye Dakma to take every for personal, professional, and SLT said it applauds DG Oshada excited with the new possibilities enterprise to its next stage of national growth with absolute Senanayke and his team at TRC for number portability brings. The development while introducing pride,” expressed Group Chairman their forward thinking and timely in Battaramulla SLT Group stands perfectly poised new energy to a nation determined Rohan Fernando. implementation plan pertaining to to offer its best-in-class plethora to build an export-driven “We are very excited to offer number portability. Lanka IOC recently opened exhibited by the citizens a petrol shed at Battaramulla, have been instrumental in which was inaugurated by containing the spread of the High Commission of India, virus, he said. Colombo, Head – Economic Gupta stated that apart Dilmah Founder Merrill and Commercial Dr. Rakesh from regular modern Pandey and Lanka IOC facilities such as a canopy, Managing Director Manoj RVI, sales building, paved Fernando granted CPM Gupta in the presence of local driveway, and digital air dealers, esteemed customers, gauge, Lanka IOC has gone and prominent persons of the a step ahead by providing a Sri Lanka fellowship area. contactless payment solution Merrill J. Fernando, the Founder of Dr. Pandey, in his address, powered by the SOLO Hayleys Agriculture Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, was appreciated the efforts of app. He further added that honoured by Prof. Lakshman R. Watawala, Lanka IOC in increasing Lanka IOC is committed conducts farmer the Founder and President of the Institute their footprint and serving the to always bringing world- of Chartered Professional Managers of Sri nation with commitment. He class customer-centric Lanka (CPM Sri Lanka), with fellowship also said that this will go a facilities at petrol sheds to training in Welimada of the the institute with the designatory long way in building a strong their customers’ delight. With the onset of the season, training when the health letters “FCPM”. bond and bilateral relations Gupta also added that Lanka Hayleys Agriculture conducted regulations were eased and Presenting the certificate of Fellow of both countries. IOC has heavily invested a practical training programme where pocket meetings could Membership of the Institute of Chartered Gupta, expressing his in technological upgrades on safe and efficient use of crop be conducted adhering to laid- Professional Managers of Sri Lanka views during the occasion, and the solarisation of Presenting the Fellow Membership protection products for farmers down health regulations. With (FCPM) to Merrill Fernando, Prof. Certificate. From left: Dilhan Fernando, highly appreciated the way petrol sheds across the in Nahakadiya, Welimada on 31 this in mind, the Hayleys Agri Watawala was joined by Governing Malik Fernando, Merrill J. Fernando, Prof. the country has handled the island. Recently, Lanka IOC July. Extension Team together with Council Member Kosala M. Dissanayake Lakshman R. Watawala, Kosala Dissanayake, Covid-19 global pandemic, commissioned 10 ATM/ Representing world-renowned the Hayleys Agriculture Training and CPM Sri Lanka Director Dilshan and Dilshan Arsakularathna and commended Sri Lanka CRMs of People’s Bank multinational companies such as School (HATS) designed Arsakularathna. service are shared with members of the as a role model for other and DFCC Bank at different Bayer Crop Science – Germany, several training programmes for Prof. Watawala stated: “It was a Institute. He devoted his life to tea and countries. The supreme strategic petrol sheds in and BASF – Germany, Corteva different parts of the island,” dual honour of granting the Chartered recently celebrated 70 years in the industry, leadership, the strict around Colombo. AgroSciences – US, and global Dharmasena stated. Fellowship in Management to recognise the now becoming the most experienced enforcement of the directives, Jayanta Udaya Kumara, the seed companies such as Den The training programme on outstanding contribution to the Sri Lankan teamaker in the world. the role being played by the proprietor of the petrol shed, Hartigh – Netherlands, Hayleys "Safe and Efficient Use of Crop tea industry with the Dilmah brand and At the age of 90, Merrill J. Fernando, tri-forces and healthcare thanked all the guests present Agriculture is the largest agri Protection Products" conducted globalising Ceylon tea to be the best in accepting the award, said: “Everything I sector, and the discipline during the inauguration. inputs provider to Sri Lanka's by the HATS team on 31 July the world, coupled with the philanthropic have achieved is possible through divine agriculture industry. 2020 at Nahakadiya, Welimada services to the less fortunate through the blessings, and it is God who gave me the Hayleys Agriculture Holdings for vegetable and potato MJF Charitable Foundation.” direction to conduct my business with Clarification Ltd. Managing Director Jayanthi farmers consisted of practical In a related feature in the inaugural integrity, building on the inherent quality In our story titled “Allianz Lanka appoints new CEO”, Dharmasena commended the demonstrations of how to wear issue of Chartered Manager, Merrill J. of Ceylon tea and sharing my success with published on 27 August 2020, we had inadvertently referred staff for working tirelessly and remove personal protective Fernando’s story and his unique philosophy workers in the industry and the wider to Jayalal Hewawasam as the CEO of Allianz Lanka. He during the country’s Covid-19 equipment (PPE) appropriately of making business a matter of human community.” is, however, the CEO of Allianz Life Insurance Lanka Ltd. lockdown. “I am so proud of my and the safety precautions that team who stepped out to ensure should be taken when using that agri inputs are available crop solutions in spray tanks for for crop establishment and the their crops. The efficient use of country doesn’t miss out on the crop protection products was WEBXPAY enhances adoption of various fin-tech methods Yala season. Our entire team very much part of the agenda Internet payment gateway The platform has an intricate WEBXPAY CEO/Founder Omar cash on , there will be no of field and technical officers of the full day’s programme. provider WEBXPAY announced onboarding process which has an Sahib said: “Our merchants and traceability on the transaction and was in constant touch with our “Farmers are often accused of that it enhanced the adoption of extensive credit review their clients are at the the customer will have to raise it farmers to ensure that their excessively using agrochemicals various fin-tech methods during done on every business heart of our business and up with the merchant. In case of a issues are addressed swiftly and because of the false perception the lockdown and curfew period, that is allowed to accept we take every preauction digital transaction, the customer has to encourage them to continue that if more agrochemicals are enabling people to make safe and payment online. Once the to ensure their online evidence of the payment and has farming activities during this used, quantity-wise, that they secure online payments. merchant is onboarded, journey is safe and the right to activate the ChargeBack difficult period. It is imperative would get better results. We at WEBXPAY offers Secure merchant activities are secure. What makes option with the corresponding bank. that we continue training and Hayleys Agriculture regularly Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol monitored, and based on online transactions safer The ChargeBack option supports imparting knowledge on global conduct training programmes for customers and merchants. the guides laid down by through WEBXPAY customers in case of unfair billing good practices for best results. among farmers to demonstrate This means online payments the Central Bank of Sri is that in the case of a or fraud as the payment is reversed “The Covid-19 health the correct and efficient use become much safer than making a Lanka, local banks, and WEBXPAY bank deposit, there is in a genuine instance.” CEO_Founder guidelines had to be adhered to, of crop protection solutions physical bank deposit or choosing card scheme rules of Visa Omar Sahib less traceability, but WEBXPAY also offers the hence we couldn’t have pocket to ensure not only the safety cash on delivery (COD) as it and Mastercard, customer in digital transactions, most number of payment options gatherings during this time, but aspect in handling but also to empowers customers to activate data is entered into platforms that the transaction details can be compared to others in the same instead, we met farmers one to avoid waste of resources and the “ChargeBack” option in case are generally certified by Payment traced, which will help to resolve space and are the biggest SaaS- one. However, we wanted to harm to the environment,” of a fraud or non-delivery of Card Industry (PCI) standards. a dispute. In a scenario where based company in Sri Lanka for be ready with our structured Dharmasena stated. goods/services by merchants. Commenting on the steps taken, a client makes the payment on SMEs. Singer, SLIM join forces to boost sales team with certificate Singer (Sri Lanka) collaborated with the best practices in customer service and Human Resources and Business Integration Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) to further reinforce our brand presence in Roshan Kulasuriya commented on the novel launch the Advanced Certificate in Retail Sri Lanka,” said Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC initiative: “Singer accommodates over Services Marketing in a bid to equip the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mahesh 3,000 sales staff who are keen on taking Singer sales force with the best practices Wijewardene. up leadership roles in our organisation. It and industry knowledge in marketing. Apart from the newly introduced is of utmost importance to mould them to This collaboration would contribute Advanced Certificate, Singer has be sales professionals and provide them towards Singer’s aim of elevating customer established the Singer Retail Academy, validation with the Advanced Diploma experience to the next level, backed by which is registered at the Tertiary and offered through SLIM, a key investment that well-trained staff. The Advanced Certificate Vocational Education Commission (TVEC). we are banking on. Prioritising employees in Retail Services Marketing provides that The academy provides a certificate course and their future prospects have reinstated all-important opening for its sales staff to in customer care and retail operations, a sound environment where we can better become future leaders while enhancing their which acts as the foundation for a stellar serve our customers.” marketing skills to better serve customers. career at Singer. The sales personnel who Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC has over 430 Singer has been repeatedly recognised as successfully complete it are directed to the retail outlets, and Singer owns a portfolio From left: MoU being shared with the participation of Singer Sri Lanka PLC Finance Director Lalith a “Great Place to Work” for its initiatives Yatawala, Group CEO Mahesh Wijewardene, SLIM President Roshan Fernando, Vice President – Advanced Certificate in Retail Services of over 600 electronic items, 1,200 home pertaining to creating employee trust and Education Nuwan Gamage, CEO/Executive Director Sanath Senanayake Marketing. This programme is well appliances, and boasts more than 50 satisfaction that ultimately led to increased structured to enable the participants to learn internationally renowned brands. Singer productivity, efficiency, and enhanced conglomerates with an islandwide customer service that has propelled it to from fundamentals to advanced marketing has been awarded the number one people’s service offerings. presence and a strong sales network. The greater heights. This initiative will further concepts. brand for 14 consecutive years at the SLIM- “Singer is one of the largest company is renowned for its best-in-class assist in our endeavours to streamline the Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC Director – Nielson People’s Awards. the morning 4 Friday, August 28, 2020 brunch THE SOUL on touring India, the ‘Our Neighbours’ initiative, and new music BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE October 2019 – included them playing in a number of music festivals which featured Things have been quiet on the home front, but The Soul has been making independent artistes such as themselves, some moves behind the scenes. Coming off of the second leg of their tour including the NH7 Weekender and Goa in India, unfortunately forced to cancel the third due to the pandemic, the Sunsplash. During this first leg of the tour, rich culture. India is a country that has a Miskin said that they managed to cover colourful culture and playing amidst that band has made some changes – including the addition of a new drummer. about six to seven states in India and was daunting, but they are glad they went Speaking about what they’ve been up The Soul were recently featured in a played around 25 concerts. ahead with it. Miskin said: “It is so easy to to, guitarist Khazim Miskin shared that popular Indian podcast called “Made in Miskin mentioned that NH7 was get booed off of stage if the audience is not with the new drummer, they can promise India” where they carried out an initiative actually where they were introduced to vibing to your stuff, but we thought we’ll some new sounds, and since the curfew has titled “Our Neighbours”; the show would May, who was the host who initiated the go ahead and give it a try.” lifted, they’ve largely kept things on the feature artists from neighbouring countries “Our Neighbours” project via her podcast He shared that there are many down-low playing smaller gigs and such. like Nepal, Bangladesh, and of course and radio show. She’s an indie music occasions when you have to take chances However, they hope to organise a concert representing Sri Lanka was The Soul. enthusiast who took a liking to their music sometimes, adding that even in Sri Lanka, They returned to India once again in soon enough but until then, he said that all Miskin shared that the host who does the and extended an invitation. there is a prejudgment people make when early January, where they played in Goa that they can do is compose music. show happens to be a fan of their music He shared that playing in India was you are a new act; a judgment made based and Bangalore for a duration of two weeks, and had reached out requesting the rights to a new experience, in that on your look and name, and right up until and they were scheduled to return once play a couple of their songs on her show. they were given the you play your first set, there is an air where again to play in Delhi, Pondicherry, and The Soul’s tour in India – a one-and-a- opportunity to test you are expected to prove yourself. He said Mumbai. However, that didn’t happen as half months-long stint which started in late out their music on that they were able to face challenges like Covid-19 took over. When asked if they an audience that is that and play their music to a would continue on and complete the tour rooted in a deep and wider and diverse now that air travel is soon to be allowed, he audience. said that it is unlikely they would, as there are financial concerns with tours such as this, and so for now they hope to focus on composing new music.

THIS WEEK IN THEATRE IN THE APOCALYPSE APHNH calls for greater Renu Samarasinhe support for Sri Lanka’s BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE process has always been a While it is traditionally a and teachers have to teach, and female healthcare workers face-to-face examination where face-to-face examination, they of course Trinity candidates In commemoration of Women’s attrition rate. According to employee data Mind Adventures Theatre examiners travel from the West chose to forego this in light of would know this; you are Equality Day, 26 August, the from APHNH, female healthcare workers Co.’s Episode 013 of Theatre to 60 countries around the the current situation and, as a constantly practising with your Association of Private Hospitals and are typically compelled to leave their jobs In The Apocalypse featured world. But given the current result, were able to assess via teachers a few weeks prior to Nursing Homes (APHNH) called for after marriage or childbirth due to domestic Renu Samarasinhe, Deputy circumstances, this is obviously recordings, allowing students the exam and if the teacher is greater recognition and support towards responsibilities, leading to an estimated Representative for the Sri not possible, and for Trinity it the opportunity to record and not willing to compromise the female healthcare professionals and turnover rate close to 30%. Lanka Centre at Trinity has represented a considerable submit their performances. quality of their teaching by reiterated its commitment to enhancing In response to this, APHNH College London, who joined shift. She also said that as an doing it online or they are not the education and advancement of recommends that industry members in on a live Facebook webinar However, considering that exam board, Trinity really used to it, they will not allow women in the healthcare sector. look into constructing crèches or similar on Wednesday, 26 August at it is an organisation founded stepped up here as it was not those students to participate, Particularly in the context of increased childcare facilities at their institutions, 7 p.m. way back in 1877, she said easy for them to do. “It was which is also understandable.” risks for healthcare professionals owing to with the hope this will not only improve Samarasinhe is currently that they have seen a lot of definitely challenging, but they There are two sides to it the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, APHNH female employee retention rates, but also pursuing a career with Trinity crises and is an organisation managed to pull it together and Trinity understood this, President Dr. Lakith Peiris noted that most facilitate full and equal participation of as she discovered that her well prepared to deal with the and this gave the students she said, adding that they preexisting gender-specific issues had been women in the industry. Similarly, the passion was in supporting and situation as the one we are in the opportunity to record conducted a series of webinars further exacerbated. association is also working to introduce developing opportunities in right now. themselves and take part.” to help teachers too to continue “Like in many other critical sectors improved educational services for the performing arts, and she’s Samarasinhe shared that “They literally said our on via this new medium. of the Sri Lankan economy, women play paramedical service providers, which able to do so for students in the immediate need was to objective here is to get students Going forward, a vital role in the healthcare sector. It is is expected to generate an increase in Sri Lanka via Trinity and it’s address students who were to their next level,” she said, Samarasinhe said that Trinity therefore essential that all Sri Lankans qualified nurses and in other critical roles programmes. preparing for the May session which is why they came up is going to move onwards with make an effort to understand the challenges dominated by females. She shared that as a of examinations. She said with these alternative ways of this digital space of exams they face, appreciate their contributions, To that end, APHNH has developed a facilitator of education, the the main issue was where assessing their work. that are set to go hand in hand and actively pursue policies that address National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) primary thing they had to lay there were students who Samarasinhe said that with their face-to-face exams, these issues,” he stated. Level 6 for nursing, which has been focus on was keeping in touch were prepared for a certain as most industries may have adding that therefore this shift According to the World Health approved by the Tertiary and Vocational with their students. examination, and for those faced, not everyone was up for has represented a landmark Organisation (WHO) data from 2019, Education Commission (TVEC) and the With Trinity College students Trinity came up with it and totally onboard. “Trinity moment for longstanding women make up 67% of the health National Apprentice and Industrial Training London, the examination an interim solution. depends heavily on teachers organisations such as Trinity. workforce – particularly in nursing and Authority (NAITA). This training also midwifery sectors – across 104 countries functions as an internationally recognised surveyed. According to APHNH estimates, qualification. Similar APHNH training women make up close to 70% of the private initiatives for nurses include a three-year health sector locally, while analyses carried nursing programme, a one-year nursing out by the Ministry of National Policies assistant programme, and a four-month and Economic Affairs in 2016 indicate that gap-filling programme. Furthermore, females hold 62% of health and social work APHNH also plans to introduce pharmacy jobs in Sri Lanka. assistant and medical laboratory technology Given global and domestic trends (MLT) training programmes into their towards an ageing population and parallel expanding educational curriculum. increases in non-communicable diseases Additionally, APHNH has initiated in- (NCDs) and chronic illnesses, Dr. Peiris service training for different fields. warned that already prevailing shortages Dr. Peiris commended the contribution in nursing professionals would drastically of women in the healthcare sector, stating: spike with increasing demand for such “Since the emergence of the Covid services. pandemic, the Sri Lankan healthcare The ratio of nurses to the population response has been among the strongest and in Sri Lanka stood at approximately two most successful in the world, with only nurses per 1,000 Sri Lankans in 2015, up 136 active Covid cases as at 25 August from about one nurse per 1,000 in 2005 2020. A significant proportion of this (Sri Lankan Ministry of Health, 2018). success is a result of the courageous efforts According to the WHO, an estimated of men and many more women in both the shortage in nursing professionals between public and private healthcare sectors who 5,000 and 6,000 has been projected for the have been on the frontlines of this crisis. year 2030. This achievement is made even more A main contributory factor to this impressive given the added burden of an shortage is the high female employee understaffed workforce.” 5 the morning sports Friday , August 28, 2020 CSA fires its CEO Namal meets education officials Trinbago top the table Corruption-riddled South Africa Board yesterday (27) fired its CEO New Sports Minister Namal Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) are now topping the Thabang Moroe after an independent investigation found him guilty of Rajapaksa met officials of the table by winning four out of four in the Caribbean “serious misconduct”. Cricket South Africa (CSA) didn’t provide specific details Education Ministry yesterday Premier League (CPL), now being held at Trinidad but announced it had terminated Moroe’s employment. Moroe who succeeded (27) in Colombo in view of and Tobago. St. Lucia Zouks are in the second spot Haroon Lorgat in 2018 had been suspended pending an investigation which developing school sports after 15 out the 30 league games by yesterday includes a forensic audit of CSA’s finances. CSA is in disarray after its President in the island. The 25 “Sports (27). TKR are to meet Guyana Amazon Warriors in and Acting CEO quit last week. In 2012 too, it fired the then CEO Gerald Majola Schools” in the country will be restructured with the assistance of today’s (28) CPL encounter. It was in this week that for he had awarded its staff unauthorised bonuses. the Defence Ministry as well, he pledged after the meeting. TKR’s Dwayne Bravo took his 500th T20 . CCC win Major Tier A championship z NCC end up as runners-up

BY ISHANI UPATHARITHA and following on (o/n 119/6) 157 (Sadeera Samarawickrama The Colombo Cricket Club (CCC) clinched the 72; 4/81, championship of this season’s Ashian Daniel 3/47) at CCC (SLC)-organised Major Tier “A” Tournament at the Highlights: NCC beat Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) grounds in Colombo Colts by innings and 79 runs yesterday (27). and became runners-up in the tournament. NCC’s Chaturaga Savit Weerasinghe (on left) who beat more experienced Sankha Atukorale to reach SL Clay Court Tennis Nationals yesterday (27) at SLTA, Colombo. On right is Yasitha De Silva who beat his younger opponent They led the pointes table after made his third century of the de Silva took a match-bag of Thehan Wijemanne in Men’s Singles semis yesterday they drew their last encounter season making his 157 in 183 nine PHOTOS ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI of the tournament’s “Super-8” balls with 14 fours and four (iii) Ragama 491 and 23/0 NCC Angelo Perera round against Chilaw Marians sixes. scored drew with BRC (o/n 142/2) receives the runner-up trophy Sports Club yesterday. his 170 in 172 balls with 24 406 (Shanuka Withanawasam from Tournament Director fours and three sixes 143, Hashen Ramanayake 56, Bandula Dissanayake (centre) as SLC Vice President Ravin SRI LANKA CRICKET (ii) NCC 458 beat Colts 222 Bhanuka Rajapaksa 50, Nisal It’s ‘Savit vs. Yasitha’ MAJOR TIER ‘A’ Wickramaratne (left) looks on z HNB-Hutch SL Clay Court Nationals reaches business end TOURNAMENT – SUPER Francisco 50; Shashika Dulshan EIGHT 4/127, Kalhara Senarathne Savit Weerasinghe and for Sri Lanka since then. Yesterday’s Results: Third and last day of the final 3/146) at P. Sara Yasitha De Silva qualified Yasitha has the edge round of four matches: Highlights: The left-handed yesterday (27) with marked The men’s singles finals will Men’s Singles S/F: (i) CCC 287 and (o/n 68/2) Shanuka Withanawasam of BRC ease for this year’s men’s be held tomorrow (29) at the Savith Weerasinghe beat 494/8 dec. (Ashan Priyanjan scored 143 runs in 173 balls singles final of the Sri Lanka SLTA and the face-off between Sankha Atukorale (Seed 3) 170, Kusal Menids 157, (iv) SL Army 642/5 dec. drew Clay Court Nationals at the Weerasinghe and De Silva will 7/5, 6/3 Lasith Abeyratne 56, Wanindu with Saracens (o/n 72/2) 259 Sri Lanka Tennis Association anyway produce a new national Yasitha De Silva (7) beat Hasaranga 51; Thikshila de (Gamindu Amarasinghe 95; (SLTA) in Colombo. champion in this annual Super Thehan Wijemanne (5) 7/6, 6/2 Silva 2/44) drew with Chilaw Seekkuge Prasanna 5/72, Dushan Weerasinghe beat more Marians 458/9 dec. and 52/2 Vimukthi 3/55) and following on “A” Grade competition. Today’s (28) Schedule: experienced Sankha Atukorale Experts who talked to The (Lasith Abeyratne 2/23) at SSC This year’s SLC Major Tier “A” champions CCC celebrated their victory 76/5 (Seekkuge Prasanna 3/29) in straight sets while De Silva, Morning Sports yesterday Men’s Doubles Final: Highlights: Kusal Mendis yesterday (27) at Katunayake PHOTOS SLC 25, received almost similar opined that Yasitha De Silva, At 2 p.m. – Savit Weerasinghe results in his semi-final against who made his Davis Cup debut and Vibuda Wijebandara vs. a 16-year-old opponent in in 2016, has a slight edge over Sankha Atukorale and Yasitha Thehan Wijemanne. Savit Weerasinghe, particularly de Silva (2) Women’s Singles S/F: Savit’s road to finals when the experience factor is taken into consideration. At 2.30 p.m. – Neyara The unseeded Savit Weerawansa vs. Anika A rare book on Weerasinghe received a walk- Sponsors Seneviratne (2) over from the top-seed and title- This year’s Sri Lanka Clay At 2.30 p.m. – Janali defending veteran Davis Cup Court Nationals, which was Manamperi (1) vs. Savini athletics player Sharmal Dissanayake hampered by the Covid-19 Jayasuriya (4) z Lalith Gunawardane launches book earlier, when the latter suffered pandemic after its original start Women’s Doubles Q/F: a back injury in his match in March, is now held from 22 At 5 p.m. – Dinethya on sports training against Weerasinghe, in the August to 13 September. Dharmaratne and Saajida Razick Veteran author Lalith In this book, Gunawardane, tournament’s second round. Dharaka Ellawala is the vs. Tuvini de Alwis and Neyara Gunawardane has launched his the winner of the Kreeda Weerasinghe, 20, made Tournament Referee and Weerawansa (to be completed latest Sinhala language book. Prabha Award at the 2019 his Davis Cup debut in June Ganendran Subramaniam is from 2/6, 2/1) The book on track and field is Presidential Sports Awards last year (2019) in an Asia- the Tournament Director. Boys’ U-18 Singles Q/F: Author Lalith Gunawardane titled Kreeda Puhunuwa Vidu ceremony, has provided a Oceania Zone Group-III tie Hatton National Bank (HNB) At 3.30 p.m. – Zaidh Zihar (on left) presenting the Esin (Sports Training through a useful insight into how athletes held in Singapore. The more and Hutch Telecom are the main vs. Dhilvan Herath (3) first copy of his new book Scientific Eye). It was launched can train themselves without experienced Atukorale, 32, who sponsors. The co-sponsors are At 4.45 p.m. – Thehan to former national shot recently at a ceremony held in any assistance of a coach. put champion and veteran had made his Davis Cup debut National Development Bank Wijemanne (1) vs. Anujaya athletic coach A.J. Rodrigo Sr. Colombo. in 2009 in Syria, had not played (NDB) and Ceylinco Life. Abeywickrama You cannot miss Garden Club z Fond memories of an upcountry sports hub Colonel S.D. (Sooriyaratne Douglas) Ratwatte. KANDY The first Sri Lankan Secretary of the club was S. Wijenayake. MUSINGS Col. S.D. Ratwatte was the former by Hafiz Marikar Commandant of the Ceylon Army Volunteer Force (CAVF). Earlier, the former Trinitian had become the first Commanding Officer If you come to Kandy for leisure and sports, of the 2nd (Volunteer) Sinha Regiment at its particularly tennis or some snooker, how can formation in Kandy in 1956 with the rank of you miss Kandy Garden Club, easily one of Lieutenant Colonel. the oldest sports and recreational clubs in the whole island? It speaks a lot about the history 142 years of rich history of “our colonial masters” and their fantastic Col. Ratwatte was first appointed the Deputy lifestyle of the yore. Commandant of the CAVF having been The Kandy Garden Club (KGC) was promoted to Colonel in 1962, succeeding Col. established in 1878 by the British coffee Frederick Cecil de Saram, who had incidentally planters working in the upcountry for their sport Norman Dagley, the world been arrested after being implicated as one and recreational purposes. Still active while amateur champion of 1971 and of the main figures behind the infamous preserving its archaic outlook, the KGC could 1975, played billiards at the KGC 1962 military coup against the then Sirimavo well be one of the oldest and fully operational The Kandy Garden Club now Bandaranaike Government. sports clubs in present-day Sri Lanka. world champion in billiards. He was active in The following year, Col. Ratwatte floodlit clay courts, providing by the famous John W. Roberts & the world stage during the mid-1980s. Dagley succeeded Bertram Russell (B.R.) Heyn as Picturesque location coaching for kids and some social Company, it is a precious jewel in died in 1999 aged 68. the Commandant of the CAVF. Notably, both The KGC is located at the south-eastern tennis for adults too. KGC’s crown! F.C. de Saram and B.R. Heyn were renowned end of the historic and most beautiful Kandy Paul Mifsud and Norman Col. S.D. Ratwatte all-Ceylon cricketers. Lake, which is a famous stop for all local and Famed for billiards Dagley were two of the most By the middle of the 20th Century, as all other So the Kandy Garden Club bellies about 142 foreign visitors to the city of Kandy. Other facilities of the KGC renowned billiards champions social spheres, sports and recreational clubs in years of illustrious history that also depicts the The KGC is presently adjacent to the E.L. include table tennis, billiards, Col. S.D. Ratwatte, who have played matches at the the island too were slowly becoming open to the changing contours of our society. The legacy the first native Senanayake Children’s Park. The club is well snooker, and bridge. It is noteworthy KGC President KGC. Mifsud from Malta was local elite. So in 1950, the KGC administration of the KGC will go on to linger in the minds known throughout its history particularly for that one of the club’s billiard tables ranked 49th in the world during became open to the natives. The first Sri Lankan of the Kandyans as well as the sports-loving one sport – tennis. The club has about four dates back to 1913; one that was manufactured 1983-84. Dagley from England was the former elected President of Kandy Garden Club was public of Sri Lanka in years and years to come.