www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk THURSDAY, JULY 23, 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 15,166,423 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,731 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 4,042,031 145,130 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 621,402 BRAZIL 2,167,988 81,628 INDIA 1,216,965 29,474 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 789,190 12,745 11 2,064 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 9,166,081 PERU 362,087 13,579 THE ABOVE STATISTICS656 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.45 P.M. ON 22 JULY 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU QUARANTINE CENTRES DEATH THREATS BY INMATES Casting of votes on Underworld under control: 31 July Arrangements have been made for those Prisons Commissioner who are at quarantine centres to cast their votes on 31 July, Election Commission (EC) Chairman z CID probe on death z Phone details being Mahinda Deshapriya said. Accordingly, these voters will mark their threats continue investigated ballot papers at their BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA CRIME AND CONTRABAND IN PRISONS respective quarantine centres. The recent death threats made by several underworld figures against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the ‘Not 100%, but huge Defence Secretary, and prison officials indicate that the measures taken by the Department of Prisons to control More TUs the underworld has become a success, Commissioner success achieved’ General of Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya said. Commissioner General of mobile phones from prisons Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya around the country have join PHIs’ He told The Morning that the death threats. “They are making assured that the different now been controlled up to a Criminal Investigation Department threats because they can’t operate types of criminal activities considerable extent. (CID) was currently conducting the underworld now,” he said. conducted via the use of Contd. on page 2 Commissioner General of action an investigation against the recent Contd. on page 2 Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA The All Ceylon Dengue Prevention Resurrect the palace! Assistants Association (ACDPAA) too has All PNB joined the trade union action initiated by the Public Health Inspectors (PHIs). Contd. on page 2 narcotics with Conflict between patients Govt. Analyst Police stated that Speaking to The Morning, at Kandakadu the last batch of narcotic drugs Police Media Spokesman Five individuals have been hospitalised seized during raids conducted SSP Jaliya Senaratne said the following a conflict between Covid-19 patients by the Police Narcotic Bureau samples from the PNB’s drug receiving treatment at the Covid-19 treatment (PNB) which were to be handed evidence storage had been handed centre in Kandakadu. over to the Government Analyst’s over recently for the ongoing The conflict, which occurred last night (21), Department was handed over on investigations. had been between two groups of detainees of Monday (20). Contd. on page 2 the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre who had been identified to have contracted the virus, Military Spokesman DEMOLISHING ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES Brigadier Chandana Wickramasinghe stated. Contd. on page 2 Full report ELECTION LAW VIOLATION Over 170 delayed, interim The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) staged a protest at Lipton Circus yesterday (22) against the demolition of the royal palace pavilion of King Buwanekabahu II in Kurunegala report to PM complaints PHOTO LALITH PERERA BY SARAH HANNAN used as a political tool by political parties and candidates in 24 hours Ministry to An interim report on to gain traction on social as well The National Election Complaints Birth certificates the demolition of the as electronic media, to attract Management Centre and the District assist Lankans archaeologically important the public’s attention. Election Complaints Management to be issued online building in the Kurunegala The incident saw yet another Centre for the 24 hours marked from town was presented to Prime protest in front of Lipton 4 p.m. on 20 July to 4 p.m. on 21 July in Italy The Registrar General has taken “Sri Lankan” and will not refer to Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa Circus in Colombo yesterday recorded 178 complaints related to the Minister of Foreign steps to issue birth certificates any race or religion, while details last evening (22), the Prime spearheaded by Samagi Jana violation of election laws. Relations Dinesh online in the future. pertaining to marriage will also be Minister’s Media Division Balawegaya (SJB) candidates Gunawardena has taken Registrar General N.C. Vithanage removed from the application form noted. and their supporters. the initiative to assist has told the media that all new for birth registrations. The incident is being widely Contd. on page 2 Sri Lankan workers in birth certificates will be issued as Contd. on page 2 Court issues Italy to benefit from the amnesty granted by FR PETITION ON ARANTHALAWA BHIKKHU MASSACRE summons Italian authorities under the “Sanatoria 2020” Minister of Foreign Arrest of programme from 1 June Relations Dinesh Gunawardena on Patali to 15 August. SC fixes dates for support The Colombo High Court has issued Taking into consideration the difficulties The Supreme Court (SC) has The Senior State Counsel who had prison summons on former Minister Patali faced by Sri Lankan workers during the Covid- yesterday (22) fixed 12 November as appeared on behalf of the Attorney Champika Ranawaka to appear before 19 pandemic, Gunawardena has taken measures the date for supporting a fundamental General (AG) had sought further court. to waive penalty fees for lack of documentation rights (FR) petition filed by a time since there had been a delay officers The summons were issued regarding for workers applying for Sri Lankan passports Buddhist monk who sustained critical in the AG receiving instructions The Attorney General (AG) has directed the case filed over the alleged hit- and has brought down the fees to € 140 (from injuries following the Aranthalawa from the Police. the Criminal Investigation Department and-run incident that took place on € 330 and € 420). Bhikkhu Massacre in 1987. Contd. on page 2 (CID) to arrest four officials at the 28 February 2016 where Contd. on page 2 Negombo Prison, including the interdicted the vehicle in which Superintendent P.W.W.U.P. Anuradha Sampayo. the former Megapolis Among the officers listed by the AG are Chief and Western Province Jailors Sarath Bandara and Nishantha Senaratne Development Minister Concession for private buses and Jailor Kalinga Kaluaggala. was travelling, collided Private bus service providers have as well as the Government that buses. Therefore, we requested that Co-ordinating Officer to the AG State with a motorcycle in agreed to continue to operate their they would pull out their buses if either semi-luxury bus services Counsel Nishara Jayaratne stated that the AG Rajagiriya, causing regular routes, and will not pull the prices of bus tickets were not be removed or the ticket prices be has instructed the CID to obtain arrest warrants life-threatening Former Minister out their buses from the transport increased to the level of the ticket increased. We are running at a loss on the aforementioned officers and arrest them. injuries to its rider. Patali Champika schedule, the Ministry of Transport prices charged by semi-luxury buses. by having to operate our services Meanwhile, the interdicted Prison Ranawaka stated. “If we are to continue taking in such a manner,” Lanka Private Superintendent Sampayo had filed a writ petition Last week, Lanka Private Bus passengers according to the number Bus Owners Association Chairman at the Court of Appeal, seeking an injunction SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 Owners Association (LPBOA) of seats, then we are operating a Gemunu Wijeratne told The Morning. restraining him from being arrested by the CID. members had warned the public service similar to that of semi-luxury Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Thursday , July 23, 2020 EC explains how to mark India to further preferences on ballot papers expand bilateral The Election yy Vote is marked for more Commission (EC) has than one political party/ issued a brief notice on independent group or for casting votes and marking a combination of one or co-operation with SL the preferences in ballot more political party and papers for the upcoming independent group The Indian High Commissioner The Indian High Commissioner general election scheduled yy Ballot papers where to Sri Lanka stated that said that building more for 5 August. anything is written or the wide-ranging bilateral comprehensive long-term Voters are instructed to marked by which the co-operation between the ties between our commercial cast their votes by marking voter can be identified two countries must be further entities will enhance capacity, a cross (X) on the ballot promote employment, and yy If it is uncertain to expanded to effectively and paper against the name and increase prosperity determine to which symbol of the political party expeditiously address the political party or the or independent group of unprecedented challenges building more comprehensive long- independent group the their choice. created by the Covid-19 term ties between our commercial voter has cast his or her Subsequently, voters pandemic. entities will enhance capacity, vote should mark crosses on the promote employment, and increase preferential numbers of not In the meantime, ballot Indian High Commissioner to Sri prosperity. more than three candidates papers that are not properly Lanka Gopal Baglay spoke at a virtual Ambassador Aryasinha spoke nominated by that marked will not be counted event titled “Deepening Economic Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Foreign Ministry Secretary Ambassador about the importance of economic recognised political party for preferences. Collaboration between India and Sri Gopal Baglay Ravinatha Aryasinha recovery in context of the overall or independent group in the The EC added that ballot Lanka” last Tuesday (21). The event Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), economic strengths of our two challenge posed by Covid-19 and boxes where the numbers papers of the following was organised by the Federation of and the Institute of Nanotechnology. countries. mentioned that both sides could draw appear. conditions will also be Indian Chambers of Commerce and In his remarks, High Commissioner The Indian High Commissioner upon past successes and the ongoing The EC said the following rejected or not be valid at Industry (FICCI) in association with Baglay spoke about the dynamic and outlined a few promising areas co-operation to build a way forward. will be rejected at the count the count of preferences: the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of comprehensive ties between India and for such collaboration such as He also highlighted the various of ballot papers: yy Preference not marked International Relations and Strategic Sri Lanka and underlined the need infrastructure, energy, connectivity, opportunities for investment by yy No vote is marked for any candidate Studies (LKIIRSS). to further expand the wide-ranging IT, agriculture, manufacturing, Indian companies in Sri Lanka. Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign bilateral co-operation to effectively pharmaceuticals, tourism, and Industry participants from both against any political party yy Preference marked Relations Ambassador Ravinatha and expeditiously address the education. He also mentioned that sides highlighted opportunities or independent group for more than three Aryasinha and FICCI President Dr. unprecedented challenges created by sustained engagement in these and in a number of sectors such as yy Vote is marked for more candidates Sangita Reddy participated in the the Covid-19 pandemic. He observed other mutually beneficial areas pharmaceuticals, agriculture, than one political party yy Uncertain to find out event, apart from other senior office that today’s situation calls for policies will thrive in an encouraging and manufacturing, connectivity, tourism, yy Vote is marked for more to which candidate the bearers from FICCI, LKIIRSS, and oriented to the future that balance the enabling environment, underpinned science, and technology. It was than one independent preferences have been representatives from the Sri Lankan need for economic security with the by a consistent and predictable agreed that sectoral action points will group marked Board of Investment (BOI), Sri Lanka efficient utilisation of complementary policy outlook. He added that be followed up vigorously.

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Prasad Prematilleke divulged that huge success,” he told The Morning. seized by the PNB during raids, advised the Acting IGP that further will benefit an estimated 20,000 Sri Underworld... they had received death threats by Despite the recent raids conducted to the Government Analyst’s comprehensive investigations Lankan workers currently staying in The Department took strict underworld figures at the Boossa by the officials of the Prisons Department on Monday (20) to into the destruction of the Italy, who will be able to apply for measures to control the underworld Prison. Department and the Special Task determine whether the composition archaeologically important building visas to work in Italy after obtaining operated within prison walls and Discussions were held between Force (STF), mobile phones and SIM of the relevant drugs had been in Kurunegala were necessary. their Sri Lankan passports. many such underworld kingpins prison officials and inmates, cards are continuously being found changed. are now transferred to the Boossa including the aforesaid underworld from prison cells in different prisons A total of 279 kg and 500 g of Prison in Galle, Upuldeniya said, figures, on 26 June to resolve a fast around the country. heroin and 45 kg and 654 g of SC fixes... Court issues... adding that the anger towards the unto death launched by them. As it is reported, the officials ice have been handed over in this A three-judge bench headed by Accordingly, the former Minister authorities had arisen as they were The prison officials had visited of the Negombo Prison have manner. The Government Analyst’s Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya has been ordered to appear before transferred to Boossa, where they 14 inmates at their cells and held discovered a parcel containing Department is still conducting had directed the respondents to court on 21 October 2020. now cannot engage in any sort of discussions, during which time contraband thrown into the prison investigations focused on whether file limited objections before 30 underworld activities. Podi Lassi had said that his network premises over the wall with four the drugs seized during the PNB September. However, the Government has operates anywhere and that he is mobile phones, 10 leaves of raids and placed in storage pending The petitioner, Ven. Andaulpatha Over 170... also taken measures to toughen ready for anything. tobacco, five lighters, and narcotic legal processes, were tampered with Buddhasara Thera, has sought “Since the announcement of the up the security of prison officers Police Media Spokesman SSP drugs including heroin, cannabis, or not. an order to prosecute any living date of the election, we have so far who received death threats from Jaliya Senaratne told The Morning and narcotic pills. Investigations are currently terrorist involved in the massacre. received a total of 4,363 complaints underworld figures who are that the CID investigation which is Meanwhile, mobile phones underway on several PNB officials The Acting Inspector General of related to the violation of election currently in custody. currently underway over the death and other contraband have been arrested by the CID on allegations of Police (IGP), State Intelligence laws. On a national level, we have The CID recently launched a threats made by several underworld confiscated from the Colombo drug trafficking. (MM) Director, and AG have been named received 897 complaints while our probe into criminals known as figures would be completed within Remand Prison during a search as respondents. district-level centres have reported Kosgoda Tharaka, Podi Lassi, and a few days. operation carried out last Tuesday 3,466 complaints,” Election Pitigala Kevuma, who are detained “Telephone analyses are now (21). Birth... Commission (EC) Chairman at the Boossa Prison over levelling being conducted and several They have been found concealed Meanwhile, the process of Arrest of... Mahinda Deshapirya told The death threats against the President statements have also been within the walls of the prisoners’ online land registration will also Secretary to the Ministry of Justice Morning. and the Defence Secretary. recorded,” he added. cells. Accordingly, two mobile commence from August, the S.M. Mohammed, Commissioner – Sarah Hannan It is reported that when the CID Meanwhile, the Negombo phones, a SIM card, two phone Registrar General has said. General of Prisons Thushara officials recorded statements from Magistrate has issued arrest batteries, and a charger have been Upuldeniya, the AG, and the Director the prison officers last Monday warrants on interdicted SP of found. of the CID have been named as Conflict... (20), Commissioner of Prisons – the Negombo Prison Anurudha Full report... respondents of the petition. Sri Lanka Army officers had Administration, Rehabilitation, Sampayo and three others. While a full report on the matter intervened to resolve the conflict and Skill Development Chandana All PNB... was due to be presented to Prime and admitted the injured patients to Ekanayake; Commissioner of Accordingly, the Criminal Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa today Concession... the Welikanda Covid-19 treatment Prisons – Operation and Intelligence ‘Not 100%,... Investigation Department (CID) (23), Ministry of Buddhasasana, A series of discussions had taken hospital, he said. Thusitha Uduwara; and Deputy “We can’t say it is 100% handed over more than 320 kg of Cultural and Religious Affairs place recently where the LPBOA Brigadier Wickramasinghe Commissioner of Intelligence (completed), but we have achieved a heroin and ice (methamphetamine) Secretary M.K. Bandula had proposed to the Ministry that it further said that the situation at the Harischandra told The Morning that provide them concessions so they Kandakadu Covid-19 treatment it would probably be delayed further can continue operating the bus centre has been settled. as more findings contesting the site’s service as requested. Currently, nearly 370 virus- historic or archaeological value were “We are looking at providing infected detainees are receiving being filed. them with a further grace period treatment at the Kandakadu Covid- Cartoon of the day “As requested by the Prime of three months to settle their 19 treatment centre. Minister, who is also the Cabinet leasing installments and are Minister for Buddhasasana, looking at providing them with a Cultural and Religious Affairs, fuel subsidy. More TUs... the committee that was appointed “In addition, the Ministry has “They have informed that they to consider the evidence that is also discussed the possibility of too would be joining the trade presented on the vandalism that was providing them with business loans union action and refrain from caused by the Road Development at an interest rate of 4% so they may taking part in Covid-19-related Authority (RDA) at the disputed be able to purchase low-floor buses, activities,” National Dengue archaeological site in Kurunegala which will accommodate a higher Control Unit Director General town, will (be) delayed (by a) few number of passengers. Dr. Anura Jayasekara told The more days.” “At this point, we have requested Morning. However, by last evening, the them to bear with us, as there is He said however that the committee had taken measures only so much the Government too ACDPAA would attend to their to furnish an interim report on its could provide them,” Minister of official duties. findings, in which five proposals Transport Mahinda Amaraweera “They will still continue with were listed on the next steps; among elaborated. their official duties and handle these, the committee had proposed Furthermore, in order to take the dengue control and prevention that legal action be taken against the control of the congestion issue as measures. They were helping with individuals who demolished the site a result of commuting to school the Covid-19 situation in addition without official clearance from the and office in the morning, the to their official dengue-related Department of Archaeology. Ministry took steps to set different duties.” The committee is also scheduled work commencement timings Noting that there were 1,200 to host a media briefing on Friday for state and private institutions, officials with the ACDPAA, Dr. (24) to update the media and the while school commencement times Jayasekara said they didn’t have an public on the progress of their remained unchanged. official union. investigation. “They have informed us as they Meanwhile, after consultations are a part of the larger National with the Police and Department of Ministry to... Dengue Control Unit, but they Archaeology Director General, the The Ministry, issuing a media themselves do not have a union of Attorney General (AG) yesterday release, stated that this initiative their own.” the morning Thursday , July 23, 2020 3 business Central Bank begins payments to ETI and Swarnamahal depositors The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) announced yesterday (22) that it has the SLDILSS, a maximum compensation compensation procedure is implemented respective branch of People’s Bank,” it taken measures to pay the compensation payments to the depositors of ETI of Rs. 600,000 per depositor will be paid in an efficient and effective manner. said. Finance Ltd. (ETIFL) and Swarnamahal Financial Services PLC (SFSP) from through 45 branches of People’s Bank. “The depositors of ETIFL and SFSP Further details pertaining to the the Sri Lanka Deposit Insurance and Liquidity Support Scheme (SLDILSS) The Central Bank said the necessary are hereby requested to extend their compensation to the depositors of ETIFL upon the suspension of the finance businesses of ETIFL and SFSP with effect funds for paying compensation to all maximum co-operation towards this and SFSP can be obtained from the from 13 July 2020. depositors/legal beneficiaries confirmed compensation payment programme following telephone numbers: by ETIFL and SFSP has already been by submitting originals of deposit People’s Bank: 011- Accordingly, compensation payment selected branches of People’s Bank allocated by SLDILSS, and CBSL has certificates, identification details, 2481594/2481320/2481617/2481703 will commence from 25 July through islandwide. In terms of the regulations of taken all required measures to ensure the and other required documents to the CBSL: 011-2398788/2477261

finance, treasury, and asset debt/restructuring under Asian Arjuna Nanayakkara Hotels and Properties in his SLTDA employee arrested previous positions. He started his career as a management for forging signature trainee at Ceylinco Securities to head LSEG’s Shared and Financial Services. An employee of the Sri Lanka a director. Many such malpractices Nanayakkara brings with Tourism Development Authority have been occurring in the past him over two decades of (SLTDA) was arrested yesterday and we have, since January, been experience and exposure on (22) for forging the signature of making changes. We have zero Services Centre in SL strategic planning, financial a director and issuing work visa tolerance for such activity that The London Stock Exchange 13-year tenure. He was a part management, corporate recommendation letters to the brings Sri Lanka Tourism into Group (LSEG) announced of the strategic leadership governance, marketing, Department of Immigration and disrepute. Due to action being yesterday (22) that the responsible for transforming continuous improvements, Emigration for foreign nationals. taken, there are attempts to discredit appointment of Arjuna GMT into a leader in financial systems design, and product The Criminal Investigation the leadership by some agitated Nanayakkara as the Head of markets by establishing and development. Department (CID) arrested the staff. However, maximum action the Shared Services Centre operating an enterprise- Commenting on this person who is said to have worked will be taken and we will continue in Sri Lanka. He will be scale technology and support appointment, Global Head of in the Finance Division of the to make the necessary changes.” responsible for managing, centre with global standards. Shared Services Dee Liyanwela SLTDA. She further said that several building, and extending the Prior to GMT, he worked at said: “I’m delighted to When contacted, SLTDA areas were being addressed to fix capabilities of the centre in the Richard Pieris and developed welcome Arjuna to the Group. Chairperson Kimarli Fernando longstanding fundamental flaws country. large format retail operations His proven experience in said: “We work very closely in the institution’s processes. Nanayakkara joined and modern supply chain steering global organisations to with Immigration (Department) The required system change will LSEG from Global Market management for the group. reach exceptional topline and and an inquiry made by them continue, she said, despite resistance Head of the Shared Technologies (GMT), formerly He also recapitalised and bottomline results will help on two suspicious work visa from impacted staff and even some Services Centre in known as Mubasher/DirectFN, commenced regulated financial LSEG Sri Lanka in building recommendation letters was found external stakeholders who can be Sri Lanka Arjuna where he held multiple services under the Janashakthi and extending our capabilities to be forged with the signature of very vociferous. Nanayakkara leadership roles during a Group and managed corporate here in Sri Lanka.” Effie Sri Lanka 2020 Chamber webinar countdown begins today on NZ-SL business The countdown to the much- contribute to a brand's success. Now via Zoom scheduled to be held anticipated and highly coveted in its 12th consecutive year, the today at 3 p.m. annual Effie Awards 2020 begins Sri Lankan Effie Awards celebrate This will be followed by a today (23), with a live Zoom media the effectiveness of creative workshop on 27 July, also via collaborations briefing hosted by the Sri Lanka communications, recognising Zoom, to help participants acquire Institute of Marketing (SLIM), the campaigns that can demonstrate important tips from an industry The Ceylon Chamber of challenges and opportunities 16,000 Sri Lankans living organisers of the competition. outstanding and measurable results. expert in order to submit effective Commerce in association with faced by small to medium in New Zealand. Existing Effie is a global forum which To announce the details and entries. Further information on the the Sri Lanka-Australia-New exporters from NZ, and education ties between the two aims to lead, inspire, and champion latest Effie global updates for Sri media briefing and workshop can Zealand Business Council what such firms look for in countries have facilitated over marketing effectiveness and Lanka’s Effie Awards 2020, SLIM be obtained by contacting Arron (SLANZBC) and the New international markets in terms 1,000 Sri Lankan students to recognises all forms of active said it invites marcom agencies and Bolhart on 070-3726652/011- Zealand Trade and Enterprise of business partnerships” by study in New Zealand. New marketing communications that corporates to join the media briefing 2675000. (NZTE) will be organising a Quality NZ Director/CEO Zealand has a market economy, webinar on the topic of “New Geoff Allott; “NZ companies and the service sector makes Zealand – Current Business currently active in Sri Lanka up a large portion of the GDP. and Education Environment, and interest to build partnership The economy is dependent on Trends, and Opportunities for with Sri Lankan companies” international trade with other Tourism Alliance to Award Joint Collaborations” on 29 July by NZTE Country Lead to Sri countries. at 11 a.m. (SL time). Lanka Irfan Jaffer; and “NZ The biggest industries in The main objective of this Education sector, current trends, New Zealand include the scholarship to SME joint initiative is to enlighten and opportunities” by Education agricultural and horticulture, the business community in Sri New Zealand Country Manager mining, and fishing industries. The Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance lectures, reading exercises, and live including the launch of its resilience Lanka on change of business to South Asia Jugnu Roy. Main items exported by recently announced that it will forums, will be conducted by global webinar series and the upcoming environment due to Covid-19 The Ceylon Chamber of New Zealand include dairy be awarding a scholarship to one industry experts. launch of the Tourism Alliances trends and opportunities for Commerce, realising the products, meat, logs and wood deserving SME (small and medium- This opportunity is available domestic platform “Love Sri Lanka joint collaborations between potential of expanding trade, products, fruit, machinery sized enterprise) in partnership with to members of the Sri Lanka Locals”, among others. New Zealand and Sri Lanka, investment, and tourism and equipment, wine, and fish the Transformational Travel Council Tourism Alliance who fall under The Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance along with plans of the New between Sri Lanka and New and seafood. New Zealand’s for their Transformational Travel the definition of a SME as defined is a free membership-based Zealand High Commission Zealand, established the exports to Sri Lanka was $ Designer Programme valued at $ by the National Policy Framework organisation formed after the 2019 scheduled to be established in SLANZBC under its aegis in 272.82 million during 2019, 1,750. for Small and Medium Enterprises Easter attacks, whose mission is to Sri Lanka in 2020. 1995. The Business Council according to the United The Transformational Travel and would be especially of use to build a resilient and strong private Coverage and resource will be celebrating its 25th Nations (UN) Comtrade Council Designer Programme is a inbound tour operators, travel agents, sector that embraces international persons include “NZ economy, anniversary in 2020. It’s database on international trade. four-month online course especially accommodation providers, and other sustainable tourism best practices, impact of Covid and export President Delano Dias, who is High-quality Ceylon tea and designed to help travel designers tourism businesses in Sri Lanka. and where tourism benefits is driven plans, new High Commission also the Chief Executive Officer cinnamon are very popular in curate unique transformative travel Apart from this fantastic to communities and people across Sri plans for Sri Lanka, upcoming of Millers Ltd., will deliver New Zealand, in addition to itineraries and experiences for their opportunity, the Sri Lanka Tourism Lanka at every level. trends and developments” the welcome address. Ceylon gems and jewellery, apparel, guests while making a positive impact Alliance has ramped up its efforts and Information on how to apply for by New Zealand Trade Chamber of Commerce Chief etc. on destinations and communities. launched several successful initiatives the scholarship is available on the Commissioner for Sri Lanka Economist Shiran Fernando is Interested parties could join The course, which will be deployed to support the entire tourism industry Tourism Alliances website at www. and South Asia Ralph Hays; the moderator of the webinar. the webinar via www.event. through a combination of pre-recorded during these unprecedented times, srilankatourismalliance.com/. “NZ private sector current There are approximately chamber.lk. Ceylinco Life lays foundation stone for Piliyandala branch Ceylinco Life Insurance recently laid and waste water recycling system, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Kandy, Kalutara, the foundation stone for a purpose- thus minimising the use of pipe-borne Kurunegala, Gampaha, Galle, designed, environment-friendly building water. The building is also designed for Matara, Tissamaharama, Negombo, for its branch in Piliyandala. The new optimal use of natural light and will be Ratnapura, Kotahena, Mount Lavinia, three-storey edifice will be Ceylinco equipped with the latest energy-efficient and Wellawatte, many of which have Life’s 40th building on land owned by the lighting and air conditioning systems. already been converted to solar energy. company. The construction will minimise the use of New branch buildings, purpose-built Located at No. 190, 192, and 194 timber and a number of new trees are to to the company’s sustainable energy Horana Road, Piliyandala, this 5,683 sq. be planted on the property. The building model, are those in Horana, Panadura, ft. office conforms to the environment- will function as an office for Ceylinco Wennappuwa, Bandarawela, Chilaw, friendly specifications adopted by the Life branches in the Piliyandala area. Kadawatha, Jaffna, and Malabe. company for all new branches. With adequate dedicated parking bays Ceylinco Life operates the largest The new building will be powered for visitors, it is designed to enhance network of 250-plus branches in Sri entirely by a 20 kW solar power system customer convenience. Lanka’s life insurance industry, giving it that results in zero consumption of The company currently owns a physical presence in 142 cities, towns, electricity from the national grid and the buildings housing its offices and villages in every one of the island’s Ceylinco Life Chairman R. Renganathan and Managing Director/CEO Thushara Ranasinghe with the have its own rainwater harvesting facility in Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, 25 districts. company’s directors, members of the senior management, and branch staff at the foundation stone laying ceremony the morning 4 Thursday , July 23, 2020 brunch

BY NAVEED ROZAIS organisations and they are able to do more on a regional level to curb populations. The plight of stray dogs in Colombo The plight of Stray dogs and the community and surrounding areas, and the Western Province is one we often Most people tend to attack stray dogs, hear about. However, this doesn’t Vidya explained, or throw sticks and stones to mean that the strays are better discourage them, and strays are also underfed or worse off in other areas of the which sometimes prompts them to attack. country. The dog shelters are also overwhelmed, as are the local animal welfarists, who often On a recent visit to Jaffna, The Morning find themselves inundated with puppies left Brunch noticed a surprising number of stray outside their doors during puppy season. dogs in the area and reached out to Vidya, On a community level, Vidya explained an animal welfarist, to learn more about stray dogs that there is a great need for more awareness how the population and treatment of stray programmes in schools and villages, as well dogs is handled in northern Sri Lanka. as a need for affordable veterinary services. Government and other sterilisation The context programmes take place once a year or so, but Vidya, who was formerly involved this doesn’t solve the problem, because many with the Facebook community Animal people are often unable to bring their pets in Lovers of Jaffna, explained that part of the on the specified date, and often can’t afford problem with the stray population in Jaffna veterinary services unless it is government- is a lack of animal welfare organisations supported. A more tolerant view towards and groups. While there are two dog stray populations is needed, along with the shelters in Jaffna, one in Ariyalai (run by Iyakachchi, inKilinochchi (run by a charity JaffnaOn a community level, lack the resources to care for their pets on resources to be able to effectively control new the Thiyahie Charitable Trust), and one in called Sivapoomi), there is nevertheless Vidya explained that their own, and this, while a positive step, populations. a lot of reliance on the Government there is a great need for more doesn’t always translate to a major impact in for support with curbing the stray dog awareness programmes in controlling stray dog populations. population, which comes with its own schools and villages, as well as Sterilisation programmes have also challenges. a need for affordable veterinary changed hands in recent years; initially An attitude that greatly hinders the services under the purview of the Department of curbing of stray dog populations, and one Animal Health, it was taken back over by the that is not exclusive to the North, is that Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medicine, of sterilisation being a sin. This, combined The initiatives to curb stray dog and this switch also sometimes creates gaps with a lack of resources, creates a problem populations in the effectiveness of programmes. with more and more puppies being born Vidya shared that because of the lack of The Ministry of Health also outsources each year and abandoned in markets or formal animal welfare organisations, much rabies prevention and sterilisation to outside the homes of animal welfarists. reliance is on the Government, which faces independent private organisations, and while In the North, people tend to adopt male its own challenges when taking steps to this is commendable, private organisations dogs as guards, and when dogs prove control stray dog populations. are only able to conduct programmes to be too playful, this can also lead to One of the challenges the Government infrequently and as their own resources them being abandoned elsewhere. The faces is the lack of catchers to assist in rabies dictate, and this also impacts efficiency in the preference for male dogs also leaves many prevention and sterilisation programmes in long term. female dogs homeless, which also leads the North. The lack of access to dog catchers This is also where the lack of regional to more puppies being born into the stray means that many of the dogs that are treated animal welfare organisations comes into play, population each year. and sterilised are owned by families who Vidya commented. In the South, there are

BY NAVEED ROZAIS

The business of publishing is one that still retains its unique Publishing in the new normal charm. It is every aspiring author’s dream to write a book that inspires zIn conversation with Sam Perera of Perera-Hussein Publishing House on publishing post pandemic a publisher enough to select it for publishing. book will always have its diehard The pandemic hit the publishing fans. The challenge for us would be industry hard. The publishing to balance the two forms to cater industry is a heavily physical one, to all aspects or preferences of our from printing to distribution to final readers. sale. The pandemic hit all areas of the supply chain; even if books What are the biggest challenges were printed already, bookshops independent publishers are facing and other distribution channels were off the back of the pandemic? closed. All publishers have come to The Morning Brunch spoke with rely on bookshops as primary sales Perera-Hussein Publishing House outlets. With fears of the pandemic Precedent Partner Sam Perera, to abound, browsing in physical Sam Perera find out how the publishing industry bookshops might be restricted and particularly independent that will awaken their interest in until such time bookshops set up publishing houses can work their multiple domains. Our focus is adequate precautions to minimise way through this time and build an to always be culturally relevant community spread of the virus. effective system in the face of the and yet, at the same time, appeal A question publishers ask new normal. to readers across the world. We themselves is: What is a book? Perera-Hussein Publishing House actively look for manuscripts that Today, they will add the question: is a small, independent outfit reflect this ethos. What is a bookshop? With more and which has earned a reputation for more people shopping online, that is publishing world-class fiction. How has the independent we have in our product, since the to consider at a time like this? books that find acceptance among the obvious medium to develop. Many books by its often first-time publishing industry been end of the lockdown, we have Readers are ever more critical demanding readers. authors have been nominated for impacted by the pandemic? released three new books: My Van and discerning, and in today’s What advice does Perera-Hussein local or international prizes. Their Like every other business, we Gogh by award-winning author troubled economic climate, an On physical publishing versus have for authors and publishers active list can be found on www. have been impacted greatly. A Chandani Lokuge, The House of author’s work has to be truly online publishing; is this situation trying to make it in the new pererahussein.com and in a few good way to cope is to concentrate a Thousand Memories by a new outstanding in order to succeed. a case for independent publishing normal? bookshops across the English- on selling our already published author Sunil Tantirige, and just From a publisher’s perspective, houses to go online completely? We live in uncertain times with speaking world. books. It is crucial that every last week, The Many Faces of the work that “could appeal” has to be Many books on the Perera- constantly changing parameters. How do independent publishers project bears fruit. Until the Kandyan Kingdom by Emeritus weighed against a piece of work Hussein backlist already exist as The formula to “make it” keeps like Perera-Hussein typically situation stabilises, we have Prof. Gananath Obeyesekere. that has a “high chance” to appeal e-books and are hosted on every changing. However, excellence is work? adopted a strategy of putting new to a broad cross section of readers conceivable platform. My personal a worthy goal to strive for and one Perera-Hussein prides itself on projects on hold. What are the most important and as always, Perera-Hussein opinion is that while e-books may that will always put more cards on giving readers a selection of books That said, given the confidence things for authors and publishers will concentrate on bringing out see a rise in popularity, the paper your side. 5 the morning sports Thursday , July 23, 2020 ‘Headband lass’ Sripali retires Isolation devastates Archer SUV changed Tour giant’s name No more beholding for the Lankans the graceful sight of The self-isolation of five days, undergone by Team Ineos was how they were known till last Tuesday (21). Sripali Weerakkody, 34, who bowled “quicks” profusely England’s star pacie Joffra Archer for violating Who is Team Ineos? They are the world’s most exquisite and the wearing her headband at international women’s Covid-19 regulations, has devastated the 25-year- most expensive cycling team with seven out of the last eight from 2006 to 2018. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced her old. He has received “racist” comments on social Tour de France titles as well as a yearly budget of Rs. 5 billion. For retirement from all forms of the game yesterday (22), with media, making him so depressed that he has consulted the doctor the tour’s next edition starting on 29 August, Ineos will become 58 ODI and 31 T20I and an experience of eight before taking advice from his senior Ben Stokes. Archer became really “Ineos Grenadier”. “Grenadier” happens to be the new SUV four- World Cups under her belt. She in fact never played for Sri “English” as late as he was 20 and in 2018 England altered their sports wheeler, which is to be introduced next year by team sponsor Lanka since 2018 Women’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean. laws so as to accommodate the foreigner in their national ranks. “Ineos”, to compete with the likes of Land Rover Defender.

Dilhara Avishka Nuwan Lokuhettige Gunawardene Zoysa Did Avishka Gunawardene fix matches? Three suspended ex-SL players to face Sports Ministry inquiry today

The facts behind the accusations levelled against three former almost 14 months. of Sports has intervened to create a name of former Sri Lanka T20I player Sri Lanka players – namely Avishka Gunawardene, Nuwan Gunawardene, 43 now, played six Tests forum where the accused can tell their Jeevantha Kulatunga, was mentioned Zoysa, and Dilhara Lokuhettige – will be investigated, not by the and 61 ODIs for Sri Lanka during 1998- story, albeit belatedly. The present official in the 2018 Al Jazeera TV scoop about a complainant, the International Cricket Council (ICC), but by the 2006 when Sri Lanka was performing body took over Sports Ministry after match-fixing case relating to a fake T20 Ministry of Sports in Sri Lanka today (23). exceptionally well at the international November last year. series in the UAE. stage. Charges against Lokuhettige included The Sports Ministry has called tournament held in Sharjah, UAE in He is now among the four most Lokuhettige scenario breaching Article 2.1.1 of the ICC the three former Sri Lanka players, December 2017. high-profile former national players – Lokuhettige was charged by the ICC ACC – fixing, contriving, or otherwise along with the former Sri Lanka team The two charges against Gunawardene Gunawardene, , Zoysa, with three counts of breaching the ICC influencing improperly, or being a party Computer Analyst Sanath Jayasundara, are related to “directly or indirectly and Lokuhettige – to be indicted by Anti-Corruption Code (ACC) in April to any agreement or effort to fix…, the to appear before a three-member panel soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, the ICC for dubious fixing allegations. 2019. That time, the ICC said the player result, progress, conduct, or any other appointed under the instructions of persuading, encouraging, or intentionally Jayasundara was suspended last year was given two weeks to respond to the aspect of any international match. Minister of Sports Dullas Alahapperuma facilitating any participant to breach by the ICC from his duties for allegedly charges. today at 3 p.m. in Colombo. Code Article 2.1 and failing to disclose trying to bribe former Sports Minister Those charges were said to be in Nuwan Zoysa Lawyer Chrishmal Warnasuriya to the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) Harin Fernando to include a player to a addition to the charges imposed on Nuwan Zoysa, 42, played 30 Tests and appeared for the former players in full details of any (such) incident, fact, or national team. Lokuhettige by the ICC in 2018, on behalf 95 ODIs for Sri Lanka as a main strike today’s inquiry. The three-member matter that comes to the attention of a of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), with bowler during 1997-2007. He took to panel of the Sports Ministry will also participant that may evidence corrupt Ministry gets involved, three counts of breaching the ECB’s ACC. a coaching stint with Sri Lanka Cricket include its current Director General Amal conduct”. albeit belatedly It was then that he was provisionally (SLC) in 2015 and was charged by the ICC Edirisooriya. Gunawardene, who coached both Sri suspended with immediate effect. in 2018 for three breaches of its ACC. Not given opportunity to answer Lanka and Sri Lanka “A”, was in the midst Lokuhettige, 40, played for Sri Lanka as He was provisionally suspended with Charges against Avishka In what appears to be an astonishing of a flourishing coaching career by the an all-rounder during 2005-13 playing in immediate effect in October 2018, that The ICC, on behalf of the Emirates case, Gunawardene was charge-sheeted time the ICC suspended him from all nine ODIs and two T20Is. too for breaching the Article 2.1.1 of Cricket Board (ECB), charged by the ICC without giving him any cricket, including coaching, depriving the ICC ACC. He was given 14 days the Gunawardene 14 months ago in May opportunity, in spite of his repeated him of being involved in his job. He was suspended earlier following month to respond to the last year, following a T10 league cricket request to respond to those charges for It is in such a context that the Ministry Lokuhettige’s name, along with the charges. Paying the price for others’ sins! z ‘We appointed broad daylight has to be given a chance to tell (provincial) teams also joined in that Colombo his/her story. The ICC can’t suddenly come side to go on that trip,” asked Gunawardene. Chandimal as and say “you are the most corrupt” and never SL ’: allow anybody to answer their queries. We made Chandimal the skipper “My charge sheet has been sent by the UAE. Shaji Ul Mulk No fixing in India? ICC had no connection with that tournament. The former players might be having a And I was contracted with only SLC. z The weaker and the different story to tell. Yet, it is not just for “After we went to Sharjah for that tournament, them to be branded as “fixers” in the public two people came and said they were the owners more submissive always eye simply because their voice is unheard or of our team. They also said that they were the get unduly punished indirectly barred. ones who made Chandimal Sri Lanka Captain. Isn’t fixing happening in India, which is They told the media the same.” z But the bigger culprits over 60 times larger than this island nation with a population over a billion? So, this “most Shaji Ul Mulk may be moving freely corrupt” tag is likely to have internal politics. The T10 Cricket League is the brainchild of Shaji Ul Mulk (second from left) “It is in such a situation that they have falsely and unperturbed accused us and not listening to our side of the ICC is not one’s master not its affiliates’ master or big boss, but a body went for a privately run tournament (not one story. We can’t even do our coaching now. once told media representing all of them equally. organised by the ICC),” Gunawardene told We are now happy because at least now we BY REVATHA S.SILVA recently: “ICC is banning our (Sri Lanka) media on the said T10 event of 2017. have been given an opportunity to speak,” players without any evidence. If they are Come up with proof Gunawardene added. The Sports Ministry will be lauded for banning a player, they need to say what crime Reportedly, the allegation against Colombo team comprised Did SLC send a team, in the guise of Sri their intervention. Three former Sri Lanka the player has committed and show evidence. Gunawardene, who was the Sri Lanka Coach outsiders too Lanka team, to a private franchise league players – Avishka Gunawardene, Nuwan Without doing so, it is not fair to ban players of the contentious 2017 T10 tournament in “It was only our team that used a country to satisfy the Emirates Cricket Board and Zoysa, and Dilhara Lokuhettige – will testify in this manner. What the ICC is doing to our Sharjah, is to talk with someone (allegedly name (as Team Sri Lanka). (Other teams posted the influential Chairman of that T10 league, before the Sports Ministry panel today (23) players is a sin. The national sports bodies Ramith Rambukwella) and not report about names such as Kerala Kings, Maratha Arabians, Shaji Ul Mulk? Was there any big-time on the allegations made against them by the in Sri Lanka should raise their voice in this that discussion later to the ICC. etc.). Dinesh Chandimal was our Captain. payments made that did not serve the International Cricket Council (ICC) more situation.” “If we have spoken to such a person, the “SLC said they were sending the Colombo development of any cricket in this country? than a year ago. But Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) behaved in a ICC needs to come up with their proof. In team (that won a domestic tournament) for that Will Avishka et al pay the price for sins that Even someone who committed a murder in servile manner in this whole scenario; ICC is the meantime, SLC says that we (the team) T10 event. Then how come players from other other have committed?