Investor Court Saturday will be set up 22 MAy 2021 for Port City – Ali Sabry By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan Justice Minister Ali Sabry yesterday (21) said, for E-Paper the Port City, an Investor Court will be set up within the Commercial High Court, so that anything above USD 100 million a day would be taken up immediately. “The hearing would facilitate the investor that his Govt using health investment is safe. In that manner, we will give them a fast, efficient and accurate resolution to the dispute,” he added. regulations to He further said the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill has been passed and the enactments, which would have no application silence dissent – Tilvin within the area of Authority of the Port City, would be the Urban Development Ordinance, the By Treshan Fernando Municipal Council Ordinance, Commercial Mediation Centre, the Town and Country Planning, Instead of using health Strategic Development, Public Contract, and the regulations to protect the Board of Investment. They are those that would be people against COVID-19, the irrelevant to the Port City and the rest of the Government is now using it to common laws are applicable to the newly reclaimed silence Opposition dissent, land. alleged JVP General Secretary “It’s not a magic and don’t be dubious and fan Tilvin Silva. those agenda-based people,” he said. Speaking at a Media briefing “Even crimes, terrorist financing and money held yesterday (21), Silva said laundering has its implication in the Port City Police Spokesman DIG Ajith under the Sri Lankan law, and it is also observed Rohana had said the protest that the issuing of all licences will come under the organised by the JVP on 19 purview of the Colombo Port City Economic May was held in violation of Commission (CPCEC), which is appointed by COVID-19 guidelines and that around 1,000 cases of COVID- President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.” legal action would be taken 19 a day and only roughly ten The three provisions in the Bill are that the land against them. deaths, but now there are over belongs to Sri Lanka and is part of Sri Lanka, there The protest was held near 3,000 cases daily and 40 to 50 are incentives that could be granted for any the Parliament Roundabout people are dying from COVID- investor and a one-stop-shop will be catering to all against the Colombo Port City 19, Silva stated. needs of an investor. Economic Development However, he said that He said to meet most of the challenges the Over 1,000 Commission Bill. Silva claimed instead of focusing their Colombo Port City Economic Commission (CPCEC) the protest was conducted in efforts on this issue, the will provide specific solutions. Most of the contracts keeping with the health Government is trying to crush will be governed by arbitration so the arbitrators in guidelines, adding that those the voice of the Opposition. a set time frame, will finish their cases. Also, at the protest maintained Additionally, Government investment-based conflicts will go to the social distance and always officials have been hosting Commercial High Court. Children Under wore facemasks. ceremonies and flaunting “I’m intending to set up an Investor Court within He said the Government COVID-19 regulations even the Commercial High Court so that anything above managed to pass this Bill, very recently, accused Silva. USD 100 million a day, would be immediately which was extremely harmful Recently, the President went heard and that would assure the investor that his to the country, in Parliament, to inspect beds at a treatment investment is safe and we will give them a fast whilst the public’s attention centre and there was no social efficient and accurate resolution on the dispute. 12 COVID-19 was commanded by the threat distancing at all, he claimed. They will also have the single window opportunity of COVID-19. “With the help of In another instance, he added, and everything will be handled efficiently.” MPs that always say yes to the the Minister of Public Security Following the Colombo Port City Economic orders, the Government was Sarath Weerasekara was Commission Bill being passed in Parliament, the able to pass this Bill,” he pictured at a public event Government held a Media conference to further Infected added. without a face mask. explain how the CPCEC would function. Furthermore, instead of “We must ask the Police Minister Ali Sabri said that more consultations using the health regulations to Spokesman what he will do are needed in the future regarding how to start the control COVID-19, the about these violations,” Silva functioning of the Port City. – LRH Consultant Government is using it to said. He also defended the The Port City will offer world-class facilities silence the voice of any JVP, claiming that the JVP providing up to date incentives for public and By Kumudu Upul Shantha the ICU of the Lady Ridgeway opposition, Silva alleged. He has always acted as a investors in the region and would be ready to serve Hospital, had already succumbed also claimed that whilst the responsible political party, the connecting destinations from the Middle East to Consultant Paediatrician at the to the dreaded disease. Government did a good job in even cancelling their May Day Asia and connect it to Europe as Sri Lanka is Lady Ridgeway Hospital Dr. He added over 300 children, of controlling the first wave of Rally plans due to COVID-19. strategically located. Deepal Perera says over 1,000 this particular age group, who had COVID-19, the Government He called on the Government He went on to say 25 ha is allocated for water children below the age of 12 had been infected with the virus, had then practically invited to stop using these health sport, where 200 yachts which can be operated. already been infected with COVID- already been treated at the LRH COVID-19 through projects regulations to control the These are for Sri Lankans. 19, according to the reports and noted that a sizeable number such as the Ukrainian opposition and to instead find He also said that in 146 countries there are about received by the hospital. of these children had also been tourists’ initiative. ways of curbing the spread of 5,000 such special economic zones and the Port He says as the third wave of the transferred to other hospitals such Previously, there were COVID-19. City is not similar to a manufacturing hub or not a COVID-19 pandemic had begun to as the IDH. factory coming up but a city in a strategic place on spread rapidly, even among Dr. Perera mentioned that as the the busy maritime lane. children, it is important that situation could further deteriorate He further added, “to quicken up a process for children below 12 years of age are in the country due to the spread of the investors we had some structural plans like the provided with the necessary the disease, it is vital that parents Avant Garde Floating Armoury case Mahaweli Development Authority. This commission vaccines to ensure their safety. not allow their children to go also has similar powers vested in them while Dr. Perera remarked that five outdoors during the coming sharing the common laws of the country. children, who had been treated at weeks. Senadhipathi et al “These incentive measures are to support the investors from not going from pillar to post and the USD 1.5 billion has been used so far for basic acquitted structures. By 2040 we will need about another USD 15 billion to upgrade the Port City. By Hansi Nanayakkara “Interlineal banks can be established and we would be competing with Dubai, Singapore, Hong Port City Bill in Parliament The Colombo High Court Kong, and Shenzhen in China, Malaysia and South Trial-at-Bar yesterday Korea. They are our competitors,” he added. acquitted Avant Garde “At the end of the day, the Commission will be SJB criticises Govt’s Maritime Services Company appointed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and he Chairman Nissanka was elected by the people. He is answerable to behaviour during debate Senadhipathi and seven Parliament,” the Justice Minister said. others, who had been charged Education Minister Prof. G.L Peiris and President The SJB yesterday (12) criticised opportunities in the Port City will be with operating a floating Counsel Jayantha Weerasinghe also spoke on the the Government’s behaviour during made available to both local and armoury in the seas off Galle. importance of the Port City and the benefits Sri the Parliamentary debate on the foreign companies, The case was heard before a Lanka can enjoy through the investments. Colombo Port City Economic Maddumabandara noted. three-Judge Bench comprising Delivering the verdict, Judge Commission Bill, saying it was a “The SJB has stated from the Judges Aditya Patabendige, Patabendige pointed out that clear example of arrogance. start, that this Bill seeks to Manjula Tilakaratne and former Defence Secretary They claimed that using the establish an institutional structure Mahen Weeraman. Karunasena Hettiarachchi, Government’s majority in that is not accountable to the Sri Announcing the verdict, the who had given evidence during Controlling COVID-19 spread Parliament to pass the Bill is not a Lankan Government. Although the Bench stated that, having the trial, had stated that Avant victory of the people but a victory of horrors of the Bill have been closely perused the testimony, Garde Maritime Security crony politics and the economy. mitigated through the judicial there were serious questions Services Private Limited and Two-week total In a communiqué released by SJB process, the danger has not yet that had come to light on Rakna Lanka, which were General Secretary Ranjith abated.” whether there had been under the Defence Ministry, Maddumabandara, it was noted He went on to say that it is crucial sufficient proof of evidence had been given permission to lockdown that the Minister of Justice to understand the subtext of the which had warranted the operate a floating armoury in rejecting the Opposition’s press release issued by a Chinese arrest of the eight accused. the Red Sea. amendments to the Bill company to summon investors. Hence, they acquitted the The defendants were accused necessary – SLMA demonstrated immaturity as well as He also pointed out that at the eight accused of the charges of causing a financial loss to power intoxication. moment, the SJB sees the State filed against them. the tune of Rs 11.4 billion to Announcing interim release Jiang Houliang, Managing controlled Media attempting to The Trial-at-Bar had the State by granting approval Director of CHEC Port City Colombo entice quick investors. concluded the hearing of the to the Avant Garde Maritime days will hamper efforts (Pvt) Ltd, a Colombo Port City “We want to emphasize that the case on 28 April and the Security Services to operate a project company, stated in a press SJB will continue to work to make unanimous decision of the floating armoury in Galle By Kumudu Upul Shantha release on the 21 April, even before the port city’s management fully Court was delivered yesterday. Harbour during the period the Speaker puts his signature on accountable to Parliament,” he The other defendants from 7 August 2012 to 8 President of the Sri Lanka Medical Association the Bill, that investment said. (TR) acquitted by the Court include, January 2015. (SLMA) Dr. Padma Gunaratne has warned that by former Chairman of Rakna The prosecution was merely imposing travel restrictions countrywide or Lanka Security Company represented by State Counsel locking down certain Grama Niladhari Divisions will Victor Samaraweera, Janaka Bandara, Attorneys not be effective towards successfully containing the Vishwajith Nandana Shakthi Jagodarachchi, Akila rapid spread of the third wave of COVID-19 Diyabalanage, Nilupul de Dalpadadu, while President’s pandemic here. Costa, former Additional Counsels Sampath Mendis, She emphasised the concerted request of the Secretary of the Defence Kuvera de Soyza, Ajith medical experts is for the country to be under Ministry Saman Dissanayake, Pathirana, Attorneys-at-Law lockdown for a fortnight if the current spread of the Albert Thilakaratne and the Gamini Alwis, Sanjaya disease is to be controlled effectively. Ukrainian Captain of the ship, Ariyadasa, Asela Serasinghe, Dr. Guneratne stated that during the 14-day Gennadiy Gavrylov. Iresh Seneviratne and Harith period of the lockdown, the Government should not P.B. Premachandra, who had Hettiarachchi looked into the venture to announce any interim relief days for the also been named as a interests of the eight accused public as then all efforts made to control the spread defendant in the case, had in the case. of the disease will be to no avail. passed away during the trial. (Pic by venura chandramalitha) A2 saturday 22 may 2021 news Singaporean Freighter Catches Fire in Colombo Harbour Navy says blaze now under control but stays vigilant By Sulochana Ramiah India and was scheduled to deployed. The Navy is still fire had broken out again in was spotted on the ship and continuing to monitor the Mohan anchor at Colombo for monitoring the container the night and the Navy had no Indian asset had been situation, he added and transshipment. The vessel ship at anchor off Colombo rushed to douse it. mobilised in this mission. said that the Air Force is The Sri Lanka Navy was left the Port of Hazira, India harbour. The fire is under He also noted that the The SLPA head said that also ready to help. dispatched to aid a brand- and arrived in Sri Lanka on control, the Navy says. The ship will be towed further to officials had boarded the A ship sailing to India new Singapore-registered 19 May. Sri Lanka Ports Authority sea, out of territorial ship for inspections also caught fire in Sri container ship, the X Press The Navy dispatched two (SLPA) also assisted in the waters, in case fire breaks yesterday. The officials were Lanka’s territorial waters in Pearl that caught fire on 19 offshore patrol vessels, firefighting efforts. out again and speculated from the Marine September last year. May some 9.5 nautical naval ships Sagara and Chairman of SLPA, Daya there could have been a Environment Protection There were 25 crew on miles northwest of Colombo Sindurala and a fast attack Ratnayaka said that smoke Nitric Acid leak on deck. Authority, the Merchant board the distressed ship, Port near Bopitiya. craft, as well as a Sri was seen on 20 May and Meanwhile Indian Shipping and the Sri and they were from the The X Press Pearl, Lankan firefighting tugboat there had been a distress diplomatic sources said Lankan Navy who Philippines, China, India carrying 1,486 containers which it said remained call. The SLPA and Navy they are on standby in case continued inspections and and Russia. of 25 tonnes of Nitric Acid engaged in firefighting was dispatched and the fire of any further informed that everything The Chinese made X and several other chemicals efforts yesterday (21). An was brought under control developments. However, as was under control by late Press Pearl first set sail in and cosmetics, set sail from offshore tug was also the same day. However, a of 8 p.m. yesterday no fire afternoon. The Navy is February this year.

President Bishop of Galle, gifts medical supplies to Southern Prez Gotabaya gives makes a Naval Commander keynote address on number of For patients in Intermediate Care Centre for COVID-19 at Boossa “The Future of Asia” crucial decisions Strengthening relationships and added that it is noteworthy that the understanding between Asian conference has become a gathering To cushion impact on economy countries has never been more place for leaders to share their important than now, given the opinions freely with each other. and people, when imposing COVID-19 pandemic, President In response to a question posed Gotabaya Rajapaksa said on asking how Sri Lanka, as a South travel restrictions... Thursday (20). He made these Asian nation, balances the comments in the Keynote Address at relationship with China and India, President Gotabaya responsibility of treating the 26th International Conference on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said Rajapaksa has taken a them should also be “The Future of Asia” which was Sri Lanka has maintained historic number of decisions to given to the respective organised by Nikkei.“The COVID-19 relationships spanning centuries avoid impact on the institution that pandemic has cost a large number of with both India and China. people and the economy conducted the testing. lives and devastated economic “China has been a key investment when imposing travel It was also decided to activity throughout the globe and all partner to Sri Lanka, as have many restrictions from 11:00 use the facilities of the nations must unite to face these other countries. As a developing p.m., yesterday (21) as a Ayurveda hospital unprecedented challenges” President nation, Sri Lanka wishes to obtain step to contain the system in treating Rajapaksa said. the support of all partner nations to spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 patients. He added that deadly strains could fast track our development During a discussion Although travel The Bishop of Galle, Rev. provided, and the emerge and threaten the progress aspirations and improve the with the Presidential restrictions will be lifted Raymond Wickramasinghe, consignment was handed countries have made which is why livelihoods of our people” he added. Task Force on COVID- on 25 and 28 May, the handed over a stock of over to Commander the rollout of vaccines must be done He went on to say that the Sri 19 at the Presidential public will only be medical supplies to Rear Southern Naval Area by Rev. in a short period of time if they are to Lankan Government understands Secretariat yesterday allowed to leave their Admiral Prasanna Hewage, Wickramasinghe, and beat the pandemic. India’s security concerns and are (21), the President homes to buy essential the Commander Southern National Director of the The President commended the working towards resolving any fears briefed the Ministers consumer goods. Naval Area on 19 May. Pontifical Mission Societies, International Conference which has and reservations that the Indian and relevant officials on Several vaccines These supplies will be Rev. Fr. Rohan Basil, at the been in existence since 1995, and Government may have. (ST) the steps to be taken in ordered from other utilised to treat patients in official residence of the this regard. countries will arrive in the Intermediate Care Centre Bishop. Steps should be taken Sri Lanka shortly. The for COVID-19 at Boossa, Governor of the Southern to keep factories, President emphasized Galle, which is run by the Sri Province, Willie Gamage, pharmacies, shipping- the need to expedite the Lanka Navy. Deputy Area Commander of Commodity levies slapped lines open and continue vaccination programme Digital thermometers, the Southern Naval the production in and contain the pulse oximeters/automated Command, and the bakeries as well as the situation immediately. blood pressure monitors, Command Medical Officer on range of food items distribution of food President Rajapaksa nebulising equipment, ECG were also present at the items during the travel said that instead of machines, and beddings occasion. By Paneetha Ameresekere split peas; Rs 25 a kg on maize; Rs restricted period. The appearing unnecessarily were among the items (TR) 50 per kg on red onions; Rs 50 a kg President also in front of the media Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his on garlic; Rs 100 per kg on dates; Rs instructed the relevant and intimidating the capacity as Finance Minister, has 100 per kg on eels; Rs 100 per kg on authorities to distribute public, the government applied special commodity levies dried chillies; Rs 100 per kg on essential food items to officials and responsible (SCLs) on a range of mainly food Tuna; Rs 100 per kg on apples; Rs the public without any personnel should rd items from a minimum of Rs 1 to Rs 100 per kg tax on sprats/salmon/ shortage using mobile inform him directly COVID-19’s 3 wave 800 per kg, to protect the country’s sardines/mackerel; Rs 125 per kg services at the about any issues. sparse foreign reserves, with on oranges; Rs 125 per kg on divisional level. President Rajapaksa claims 20 lives in Trinco retrospective effect from Tuesday (18). crushed/grounded chillies; Rs 162 It was also instructed added that the decisions The new levies are Rs 1 tax on a kg per kg on cumin seeds; Rs 162 per to provide the taken up to now and to By Naalir Jamaldeen Mahroof Nagar PHI Division of facemasks, the only non-food item kg on fennel seeds; Rs 200 per kg on confiscated essential be taken in the future has also been identified as a to be taxed under this order. grapes; Rs 220 per kg on shelled consumer goods that would be taken on the With the breakout of third vulnerable region for Other levies, wholly pertaining to ground nuts; Rs 350 per kg on had been illegally advice of the relevant wave of COVID-19 pandemic COVID-19. food items, in ascending order are a quinces; Rs 350 per kg on fresh imported into the expert groups and that 275 individuals have been “A COVID-19 ward is to levy Rs 5 per kg on whole chickpeas; lemons; Rs 400 per kg on dried country, to Sathosa and he would not hesitate to tested positive with the virus be set up at the Base Rs 5 per kg on whole peas; Rs 10 per lemons; Rs 650 per kg on margarine to assign the recruits take any decision for and a total of 20 deaths have Hospital, Kinniya while kg on split chickpeas; Rs 10 per kg on and Rs 800 per kg on yoghurt. from the 100,000 job the sake of the people of been reported in Trincomalee setting up an Intermediate opportunity programme the country. District by Thursday (20). Care Centre to to pack essential goods The Ministers briefed Speaking to Ceylon Today, accommodate patients until in Sathosa warehouses the President on the MOH in Kinniya Dr. Riswie they are transferred to island-wide. steps that have been said that 206 infected cases treatment centres,” Gampaha set to take the lead It was decided to issue taken to meet the needs and 11 deaths have been Dr. Riswie noted. the necessary permits of the people during the reported from Kinniya alone. Mahamaru and the in daily COVID-19 cases by the Divisional travel restricted periods. Dr. Riswie said that Muslim burial ground at Secretaries for the President Rajapaksa quarantine curfew has been Mahroof village have also By Kumudu Upul Shantha according to the latest data collated distribution of essential noted that it is the imposed in 10 Grama been recommended to set by the health officials, the number goods and to deploy the responsibility and duty Niladhari Divisions (GND) in up a burial site to bury the Health authorities have pointed of daily infections from the Colombo Army along with the of the people to follow Kinniya including bodies of COVID-19 out the latest figures indicate the District had markedly reduced to Police for the the instructions given by Periyaatrumunai, Periya infected persons. number of COVID-19 infections in 218. convenience of the the health sector to Kinniya , Kinniya, Nagar, Meanwhile Kurinjakerny the Gampaha District had begun to Health sources added that roadblock operations. make the government Malinkarai, Kuttikarachchi, MOH Dr. A. M. M. Ajeeth overtake those in Colombo and besides those infected in the The President also programme to control Rahumaniyah Puram, said that 69 COVID-19 other districts. Gampaha District, the daily stressed that these the pandemic a success. Kattayaru and Sinna Kinniya patients and 6 deaths had They confirmed the daily infection infections in other districts such as travel restrictions Ministers Pavithra Grama Niladhari Divisions. been reported by yesterday rate in the Gampaha District had Kurunegala, Kegalla, Galle and should not impede Wanniarachchi, Gamini He further stated that the (20). increased to 761. However, Kalutara had also spiked. regular daily cleaning Lokuge, Johnston routines including Fernando, Bandula garbage disposal in all Gunawardana, cities, road development Prasanna Ranatunga, and other Ramesh Pathirana, constructions, Namal Rajapaksa, GMOA requests Health Ministry to probe agricultural activities, Rohitha and to issue permits to Abeygunawardena, State transport the produce Ministers Sudarshani Private sector institutions offering 2nd dose of COVISHIELD to the economic centres Fernandopulle, prior to the day they are Shasheendra Rajapaksa, By Dilanthi Jayamanne pandemic situation. Epidemiologist and the Unit the free health service. The scheduled to open. Channa Jayasumana, Assistant Secretary of the which he said had even failed to private sector has not been The President also MP Madhura Withanage, Doctors requested for Chief Government Medical Officers’ prevent the present situation given the authority to instructed the health Senior Advisor to the Epidemiologist, Dr. Sudath Association (GMOA), Dr. Naveen the country was facing. administer it. authorities that if a President Lalith Samaraweera to be brought D. Zoysa said on Thursday (20) Also, the GMOA requested However recent information person was tested Weeratunga, under the direct purview of that following discussions with that the National COVID-19 received regarding certain positive for COVID-19 Commanders of the Deputy Director General (Public Health Minister Pavithra vaccination programme be private sector institutions following the testing three Armed Forces and Health-I), Dr. S.M. Arnold owing Wanniarachchi the Union had placed under two Consultant offering second dose of the conducted at either a the Heads of the Health to his alleged inability to carry endeavoured to impress upon Community Physicians. The COVISHIELD vaccine at a price, government or a private sector were also present out his duties efficiently to the Minister the necessity of a vaccination programme for the has raised doubts as to how institution, the at the discussion. prevent and control the monitoring body to oversee the coronavirus is directly under this may have come to pass. news saturday 22 may 2021 A3

Immunity takes time to adjust… Stick to health guidelines after jabs Police to Ensure – Prof Neelika Malavige By Savani Sheshadhi Quarantine Professor Dr. Neelika Malavige of the Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura reiterated Order Not Defied that no vaccine currently By Sandeep said. Travel restrictions will DIG Rohana added that purchase medicines. available against COVID-19 Tissaaratchy be re-imposed again at 11.00 public transportation will not DIG Rohana requested provides immediate p.m. on 25 May and will be available until the essential service workers to protection and that the Road blocks, mobile patrols continue till 4.00 a.m. on 28 restriction is lifted. However, assist the Police by producing immune system takes time to and foot patrols will be May. During the travel if an individual is in need of the necessary documents if adapt to fight against the conducted by the Police in restriction period, the NIC hospitalisation, that they request any infection. She said constant connection with the travel number system, implemented individual is permitted to authentication. attention should be paid to system to adjust and restrictions, that came into for individuals to travel travel during this period. If anyone is found violating maintaining social distancing although the risk of effect from 11 p.m. yesterday around, will not be in effect, Pharmacies will remain the quarantine order, that and upholding health contracting the disease is (21) and will continue till 4.00 and all individuals are to open during this period, and individual will be arrested guidelines. minimal, the chances of a.m. on 25 May, Police remain at home until the residents can travel to the and produced before the The World Health infection is not totally Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana quarantine order is lifted. nearest pharmacy to Court. Organisation (WHO) has eradicated. “Even though defined that the British, there is a chance of a South African, Brazilian and vaccinated person being Indian variants of the virus infected, the risk of serious as more dangerous as they complications arising is spread faster than others minimised”. Recent Another arrested over and can cause complications Dr. Wijewickrema said that for those infected, increase a vaccinated person who the percentage of deaths and contracts the disease should COVID-19 extremist classes not respond to vaccines. Prof still adhere to health By Thameenah and organising extremist officials intend to obtain Malavige emphasised that guidelines because they still Razeek classes. a detention order in health guidelines should be could be carriers of the virus. deaths being According to DIG accordance with the strictly adhered to no matter He also said that The TID arrested a Rohana, information provisions of the PTA. which variant is prevalent as breastfeeding women can be 29-year-old suspect, in been obtained regarding “In connection with his they spread at equal rates. vaccinated and assured there Mawanella, who had such classes conducted activity, the suspect will She made these comments are no problems with nursing analysed participated in extremist in December 2018 by be questioned further. while participating in a before or after vaccination. teachings given by Zahran Hashim. The TID has been virtual conference on Meanwhile, Prof Malavige – Health Ministry Zahran Hashim, Police He claimed that six examining class Wednesday (19) on the assured that there is no one Spokesman DIG Ajith suspects, previously occurrences linked to theme: “Medical Scientific food that can boost immunity By Savani Sheshadhi, Nipuni Rohana said yesterday arrested, had been the Easter Sunday Analysis on the spread of because certain fares are Ekanayake (21). conducting classes in bombings since January COVID,” hosted by the being popularised on social He added that seven Oluvil, Mutur, and 2021, based on Government Information media as effective against the Deputy Director General of the Ministry people have been Mawanella. information from the Department via Zoom virus. She instead of Health, Consultant Dr. Hemantha arrested so far on DIG Rohana also suspects in captivity,” he technology. recommended a well- Herath said that recent deaths of COVID- allegations of conducting stated that investigating added. Expressing his views balanced diet as required by 19 patients is being examined and the during the briefing, the body to maintain a results will be presented in the upcoming Consultant Physician Dr. healthy immune system. days. Ananda Wijewickrema of the Speaking on this matter, He made this statement at a Media Infectious Diseases Hospital Consultant Physician Dr. briefing on Wednesday (19) at the Health 48 health rules issued for public transport (IDH) and Epidemiology Ananda Wijewickrema said Promotion Bureau and mentioned that the Institute, said the main that by engaging in some facts presented on the recent deaths could outcome expected through physical exercises daily, it contradict with the results of the ongoing WP Police announces “tip- vaccinations is to decrease will be possible to maintain analyses. complications and chance of ones immunity. “As this virus Dr. Herath said that information from off” hotline to nab offenders death. He added that the affects the respiratory these analyses could be obtained within a possibility of a vaccinated system, it is certain that day or two. By Kusum S. public awareness in the report offenders. person contracting the virus people should avoid smoking; He recommended that those who had Hennadi – Kelaniya grassroots level Accordingly, the is minimal. which decreases the been infected with the virus should be regarding these laws. public can call the office He also said that since it immunity in this system,” he vaccinated up to two weeks from the date Participating in an Elaborating on the of the WP DIG on takes a while for the immune also said. of recovery given that powerful antibodies event at the Peliyagoda new hotline, the DIG 0725111555 to lodge in their bodies had been destroyed. He DIG’s office on urged the public to call complaints. reiterated that one should follow health Wednesday (19) to in violations that occur DIG Tennakone also guidelines and social distancing even after introduce a new hotline in public transport. He said that a sticker receiving the vaccine. for public complaints, also mentioned that displaying the hotline Deputy Director of Health Services of the Senior DIG in charge of Police motorcycle units number will be pasted Minister seeks Ministry of Health, Dr. S. M. Arnold who the Western Province, are on high alert and on all transport vehicles was present at the Media briefing said that Deshabandu Tennakone will arrest offenders. and on bus stands in although a large number of infections have said that it will be The DIG also said that WP. A group of officers help from Australia been reported in Sri Lanka, the situation possible to control the it’s compulsory for including DIG in charge can be controlled if health guidelines and rapid spread of COVID- drivers and assistants of of WP Damayantha By Dilanthi patients in order to prevent travel restrictions are followed properly. 19 if the 48 health all passenger transport Vijaya Shri and Senior Jayamanne deaths. “The travel restrictions between guidelines formulated vehicles including Superintendent of Police Dr. Fernandopulle told the Provinces was imposed to stop the virus by the Health Promotion buses, three-wheelers in charge of the Kelaniya State Minister for Primary Media on Thursday (20) that from spreading from province to province”. Bureau are properly and taxis to follow the Division Roshan Dias Health Care, Epidemics and the country should be closed He further said that the public’s maximum adhered to. He said that rules and reminded the were present during this COVID Disease Control, Dr. for at least two weeks owing cooperation is need towards this end. Police are engaging in public’s civic duty to occasion. Sudarshini Fernandopulle to the imminent danger of has requested the Sri having three times more of Lankan Consular General in cases with the coronavirus Australia, Lakshman than what PCR tests Hulugalle for essential revealed. equipment to battle the local “People should be confined Nurses threaten work to rule if demands not met COVID-19 situation. to their homes for at least In a letter dated 17 May two weeks to contain the Nurses will launch a work Faculty and the Neville payment of work allowances nursing staff and provide 2021 Dr. Fernandopule said spread,” she cautioned. to rule campaign unless their Fernando Hospital, the for nurses who work on 24 solutions to them. there was a sharp increase of However, informed medical problems are solved by the submission of a letter by the and 25 May which are However, whilst nurses patients with the third sources said on Friday (21) end of this month, the All Director General of Health Government holidays, for a have attended work and COVID-19 outbreak. “More that there was a strong Ceylon Nurses’ Union (ACNU) Services granting special solution to transportation carried out their duties in patients are getting shortage of human resources stated yesterday (21). leave of eight days for all issues faced by nurses spite of these issues, the complications needing to function in the increasing They Union published a list nurses up to 31 May and a because of travel restrictions Government has failed to oxygen and other lifesaving infrastructure and hospital of eight demands which they circular relating to the and providing adequate provide answers to their support. resources. In certain areas wanted the Government to protection and leave for facilities for nurses infected problems, the ACNU added. “The hospital bed capacity, there are only three four meet to avoid this campaign pregnant nurses. with COVID-19. If the listed demands are high dependency unit (HDU) doctors to manage 800 from going ahead. Additionally, the ACNU The ACNU claimed that the not met before 31 May, the and intensive care unit (ICU) persons in quarantine, The demands include asked that all nurses be Ministry of Health and ACNU declared that a capacities are being treatment facilities or interim providing assistance to given an accident allowance relevant health authorities decision had already been increased,” she noted adding care units, they said adding nurses infected with COVID- of Rs 5,000, the vaccination had been requested on reached to initiate a work to that there was an urgent that the situation may 19 at the Kotelawala Defence of the immediate family of numerous occasions to look rule campaign. need to support hospitals worsen if more persons were University (KDU) Science nursing staff, approval for into the problems faced by (TF) with equipment to manage brought in to these centres.

Economy discussed at Beautification of Colombo City to be carried out By Sandeep programmes are being meeting at Temple Trees Tissaaratchy implemented, development activities too will be carried A meeting to discuss the senior officials of the CBSL Steps will be taken by the out in accordance with economic situation of the were present at the Urban Development health safety guidelines, it country was held at Temple discussion and updated the Authority (UDA) and Housing emphasised. Trees yesterday (21), under PM on the current economic to beautify the city of Under the guidance and the patronage of Prime status. Colombo and provide more direction of Prime Minister Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. State Minister of Money and facilities to local and foreign Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Stressing on steps that Capital Market and State tourists to improve the UDA has initiated plans to need to be taken to maintain Enterprise Reforms Ajith tourism industry. construct an Eco-Friendly the stability of the economy Nivard Cabraal, Chief of Staff The UDA stated yesterday Luxury Hotel Complex with amidst COVID-19 the PM to the Prime Minister (21) that steps were being all the latest services within stated that the Central Bank Yoshitha Rajapaksa and taken to develop hotel the ‘Waters Edge’ premises. of Sri Lanka (CBSL) should Additional Secretary to the facilities in order to enhance It has also been decided to continue playing its required Prime Minister, Chaminda the beauty of Colombo City construct a flyover across the role in this regard. Kularatne were also present so as to attract local and Diyawanna Oya to further The CB Governor attended at the meeting. foreign tourists. improve the flow of traffic in the meeting together with (FT) While COVID-19 control the area. A4 saturday 22 may 2021 world

Yangon, Myanmar Israel-Hamas Truce Junta-appointed Takes Hold After electoral body to dissolve NLD Myanmar’s junta- appointed election – Media 11 Days of Fighting commission will dissolve wave of protests broke out Aung San Suu Kyi’s National after coup, the Assistance An Egyptian-mediated truce Mahmoud Abbas, and based League for Democracy Party Association for Political between Israel and Hamas in the Israeli-occupied West (NLD) because of what it said Prisoners activist group says, took hold on Friday (21) after Bank - "in a manner that does was fraud in a November though Reuters has been the worst violence in years, not permit Hamas to simply election, news outlet unable to verify the with U.S. President Joe Biden restock its military arsenal". Myanmar Now said on Friday casualties due to a clamp pledging to salvage the Hamas is deemed a terrorist (21), citing a commissioner. down on Media, with many devastated Gaza Strip and the group in the West and by Myanmar Now said the journalists among the United Nations urging Israel, which it refuses to decision was made during a thousands of people renewed Israeli-Palestinian recognise. meeting with political parties detained. dialogue. Analysts say a goal of the that was boycotted by many Fighting has also flared Israeli aerial bombardment Hamas rocket campaign was parties including the NLD. between the security forces of the densely populated to marginalise Abbas by Myanmar’s army seized and ethnic minority guerrilla enclave killed 232 presenting itself as the power on 1 February, groups. Palestinians, damaged guardian of Palestinians in overthrowing and detaining The turmoil has alarmed thousands of homes and Jerusalem, whose eastern the elected civilian leader Myanmar’s neighbours and disabled critical sector they seek for a future Aung San Suu Kyi, who the broader international infrastructure. Gaza rocket state. fought for democracy for community, but the generals attacks killed 12 people in Making the link explicit, decades before tentative have shown no sign of Israel and wounded hundreds. Smoke and flames are seen above buildings, amid a flare-up of Israeli- Hamas named the rocket reforms began a decade ago. intention to seek a Palestinians who had spent Palestinian fighting, in Gaza (Reuters) operation "Sword of The military justified the compromise with the pro- 11 days huddled in fear of Jerusalem". coup by accusing Suu Kyi’s democracy movement. Israeli shelling poured into and folk songs. 30-year-old software engineer, Abbas, 85, remained a NLD of obtaining landslide The NLD was formed Gaza’s streets, embracing one Gaza health officials said said in Tel Aviv. marginal figure during the victory through a around leading opponents of another in celebration in front 232 Palestinians, including 65 Amid growing global alarm, 11-day conflict. He secured a manipulated vote, though the military rule during a of bombed out buildings and children, had been killed and Biden had urged Netanyahu first telephone call with Biden electoral commission at that student-led uprising in 1988 along streets covered in more than 1,900 wounded in to seek de-escalation, while during the crisis - four time had rejected its and has won every election it wreckage. aerial bombardments. Israel Egypt, Qatar and the United months after Biden took office complaints. was allowed to contest. Mosque loud-speakers feted said it had killed at least 160 Nations sought to mediate. - but his Western-backed The election fraud Co-founded by Suu Kyi, a “the victory of the resistance combatants. In a televised address on Palestinian Authority exerts conducted by the NLD in figurehead of Myanmar’s achieved over the Occupation Authorities put the death Thursday (20), Biden little influence over Gaza. November was illegal “so we struggle against dictatorship, (Israel).” Cars driving around toll in Israel at 12, with extended condolences to Palestinian Prime Minister will have to dissolve the the party won a majority of East Jerusalem’s Sheikh hundreds of people treated for bereaved Israelis and Mohammad Shtayyeh, an party’s registration”, the seats in a 1990 election, but Jarrah at dawn flew injuries in rocket attacks that Palestinians and said Abbas appointee, said: "We chairman of the junta- the junta did not recognise Palestinian flags and honked caused panic and sent people Washington would work with welcome the success of the backed Union Election the result and it took until horns, echoing the scenes in rushing into shelters. the United Nations "and other international efforts led by Commission (UEC), Thein 2015 for her to come to Gaza. Hamas, the Islamist militant international stakeholders to Egypt to stop the Israeli Soe, was cited in the report power with a landslide win. In the countdown to the 2 group that rules Gaza, cast provide rapid humanitarian aggression against our people as saying. Thein Soe said the Nobel laureate Suu Kyi a.m. (2300 GMT Thursday) the fighting as successful assistance" for Gaza and its in Gaza Strip." people who committed the faces numerous charges filed cease-fire, Palestinian rocket resistance of a militarily and reconstruction. In perhaps a worrying sign election fraud “will be in two courts, the most salvoes continued and Israel economically stronger foe. After days of Israeli air for Abbas in his West Bank considered as traitors” and serious under a colonial-era carried out at least one air “It is true the battle ends strikes that destroyed heartland, some Palestinians action will be taken against official secrets act, strike. today but Netanyahu and the residential towers and waved green Hamas flags in them. punishable by 14 years in Each side said it stood ready whole world should know that damaged electricity lines, Ramallah, the seat of his A spokesman for the junta prison. to retaliate for any truce our hands are on the trigger Gaza officials said some Government. and for an underground pro- Suu Kyi, 75, has been violations by the other. Egypt and we will continue to grow 16,800 homes were damaged Hamas previously democracy National Unity permitted to speak with said it would send two the capabilities of this and residents were getting demanded that any halt to the Government, which includes lawyers only via a video link delegations to monitor the resistance,” said Ezzat three or four hours of power Gaza fighting be accompanied ousted members of the NLD, in the presence of security ceasefire. El-Reshiq, a senior member of compared with 12 hours by Israeli drawdowns in did not immediately respond personnel. Her co-defendant The violence erupted on 10 the Hamas political bureau, before the fighting. Jerusalem. An Israeli official to requests for comment. is Win Myint, the ousted May, triggered by Palestinians’ referring to Israel’s Prime The Israeli military says its told Reuters there was no A spokesman for the President. anger at what they saw as Minister, Benjamin air strikes destroyed tunnels such condition in the truce. military-backed Union Japan, a major donor to Israeli curbs on their rights in Netanyahu. used by Hamas, militant The State Department said Solidarity and Development Myanmar, will have to Jerusalem, including during El-Reshiq told Reuters in commanders' homes, rocket that Secretary of State Antony Party said it had rethink its aid provision to Police confrontations with Doha the movement's launching sites and weapons J. Blinken planned to travel to representatives at the Myanmar if the situation in protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque demands included protecting production and storage the Middle East, where he meeting, which was still the Southeast Asian nation during the Ramadan fasting the Al-Aqsa mosque in facilities. would meet Israeli, going on, and he was does not improve, Foreign month. Jerusalem and ending the Palestinian officials put the Palestinian, and regional unaware of the outcome. Minister Toshimitsu Motegi The fighting meant many eviction of several Palestinians cost of Gaza reconstruction in leaders to discuss recovery Security forces have killed said in Tokyo. Palestinians in Gaza could not from their homes in East the tens of millions of dollars, efforts. more than 800 people since a (Reuters) mark the Eid al-Fitr festival at Jerusalem. while economists said the UN Secretary-General Ramadan's conclusion. On In Israel, relief was fighting could curb Israel’s Antonio Guterres said Israeli Friday, postponed Eid meals bittersweet. economic recovery from the and Palestinian leaders had a were held throughout Gaza. "It's good that the conflict COVID-19 pandemic. “responsibility beyond the In Israel, radio stations that will end, but unfortunately I Biden said aid to Gaza restoration of calm to address had carried around-the-clock don't feel like we have much would be coordinated with the the root causes of the After you please… news and commentary time before the next Palestinian Authority - run by conflict”. switched back to pop music escalation," Eiv Izyaev, a Hamas' rival, President (Reuters)

New Delhi, India COVID-19 total death toll could be at least 6-8M At least 6-8 million people may have died due to the COVID-19 – WHO pandemic so far versus the World million deaths could be an Health Organisation’s (WHO) estimate on a cautionary note,” official toll of around 3.4 million, a said Samira Asma, WHO’s WHO official said on Friday (21). Assistant Director-General in its U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign “...This number would truly be data and analytics division at a Minister Sergey Lavrov gesture as they arrive for a meeting at the Volunteers from the Khan Trust prepare to cremate the two to three times higher. So I virtual Press briefing. Harpa Concert Hall, on the sidelines of the Arctic Council body of a person who died from COVID-19, at the think safely about six to eight (Reuters) Ministerial summit, in Reykjavik, Iceland Kurukshetra Crematorium in Surat, India (Reuters)

London, United Kingdom Prince William says BBC failed Diana with interview deceit Britain's Prince William accused Diana died in a Paris car crash in life." Dyson, in November following had fallen short of the "high the BBC of failing his mother 1997 at the age of 36. "To those who have taken some allegations from Diana's brother standards of integrity and Princess Diana and poisoning her "It is my view that the deceitful form of accountability, thank you for Charles Spencer that he had been transparency which are its relationship with Prince Charles way the interview was obtained owning it. That is the first step tricked into introducing her to hallmark," and the BBC has written after an inquiry found a journalist substantially influenced what my towards justice and truth," Harry, Bashir. to Buckingham Palace to apologise. for the broadcaster deceitfully mother said. The interview was a 36, said. Dyson's report found that Bashir, Bashir apologised for the fake obtained an interview with her in major contribution to making my "Yet what deeply concerns me is then a little-known reporter, had statements, but said he stood by his 1995. parents' relationship worse and has that practices like these - and even shown Spencer fake bank evidence from 25 years ago and he William's astonishing rebuke to since hurt countless others," worse - are still widespread today. statements suggesting that Diana did not believe they had prompted the public broadcaster comes after a William, 38, said in a statement. Then, and now, it's bigger than one was being bugged by the security Diana to give the interview. report published Thursday (20) said "It brings indescribable sadness to outlet, one network, or one services and that two senior aides William said that the BBC should the inquiry found that BBC know that the BBC's failures publication." were being paid to provide have properly investigated when journalist Martin Bashir used deceit contributed significantly to her fear, Harry and his wife Meghan quit information about her. concerns were first raised in 1995. to win a sensational 1995 interview paranoia and isolation that I their duties as members of the royal After it was aired, Bashir "(Diana) was failed not just by a with Diana, and that the broadcaster remember from those final years family and moved to California last repeatedly lied to his bosses about rogue reporter, but by leaders at the covered up the deception. with her." year. Harry, who has sued several how the interview was obtained, the BBC who looked the other way During the "Panorama" interview, In a separate statement issued at British tabloids, has spoken out report said. rather than asking the tough watched by more than 20 million the same time, William's brother previously about his worries that his As questions continued, BBC questions," he said. viewers in Britain, Diana shocked Harry did not mention the BBC by mother's experience of the intense managers failed to scrutinise his "These failings, identified by the nation by admitting to an affair name, but drew broader aim at the glare of the Press would be repeated version of events properly and investigative journalists, not only let and sharing details of her marriage Media and the "ripple effect of a with his wife. covered up facts about how Bashir my mother down, and my family to the heir to the throne and culture of exploitation and unethical The BBC set up the investigation, had secured the interview. down; they let the public down too." William's father, Prince Charles. practices (which) ultimately took her headed by former senior judge John The inquiry found that the BBC (Reuters) SATURDAY 22 MAY 2021 CEYLON FT B5 Exports Recover by 183% to US$ 98.9M in April By Ishara Gamage gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions imposed within the country and globally. It Sri Lanka’s export performance must be noted that the year-on-year growth continued its upward momentum in the in April 2021 was largely due to the first three months of 2021. Due to the negative growth a year ago. COVID-19 pandemic induced lockdown “In comparison to the lowest point in last year, exports were contracted by a April 2020, exports are up by 183% in April record 64.63 per cent Year-on-Year in April 2021. We thank the entire export 2020. However, exports grew up by 183 per community for serving the national cent YoY to US$ 798.9 million in April this economic needs at this vulnerable time. year in comparison to the previous year, the The EDB staff and I stand committed to Export Development Board announced helping our exporters through this crisis in yesterday. the best way possible,” Export Development This growth could be attributed to the Board (EDB) Chairman Suresh de Mel said.

Email: [email protected] Teejay ends 2021 strong despite pandemic Set foot upon the Strong revenue and profit growth in the was able to continue its operations at all gateway to South Asia fourth quarter at both Group and Company three plants by adhering to government level have enabled Teejay Lanka PLC to health protocols to cater to the world fashion significantly minimise the impact of the and textile industry.” An invitation from pandemic-affected first quarter on the He disclosed that the Group closed the year Group’s full-year results and end 2020-21 on with a consolidated debt-free balance sheet, Port City Colombo a resilient footing. with a cash balance of Rs 6.2 billion. Sri Lanka’s top textile manufacturer has Teejay Lanka CEO Pubudu de Silva said reported profit before tax of Rs 902.8 million the Group had kept administration costs to to local and global at Group level for the three months ending 31 Rs 1.356 billion which is a decline of 5%, March 2021, reflecting growth of 67% over while marketing and distribution costs companies the corresponding quarter of the previous were curtailed to Rs 148 million, a decline year, with revenue growing 40% to Rs 9.770 of 24%. An increase in yarn prices seen in billion, its highest quarterly revenue since Teejay Lanka Chairman Bill Lam (left) and CEO the fourth quarter will continue to be inception. Pubudu de Silva prevalent in the first quarter of the new Group profit after tax improved by an even year, he said. more impressive 80% to Rs 760.8 million. substantially lower levels than witnessed at De Silva said the expansion of Teejay’s Over the preceding three quarters of the year, the preceding quarters. Group revenue for the India plant is within the planned timeline Teejay Lanka posted a Q1 net loss of Rs 31.5 year ending 31 March 2021 was down 4% to despite the disruptions of the COVID-19 million, a net profit of Rs 631.3 million in Q2, Rs 31.853 billion, in contrast to the 16% pandemic. The investment of US$ 26 million and a net profit of Rs 778.4 million for Q3. decline at the end of Q3. will result in the plant’s daily output Revenue for the quarter at Company level Similarly, Group profit before tax for the increasing to 20 tons and would contribute to was up 56% to 6.297 billion, profit before tax year, at Rs 2.650 billion reflected a reduction the Group’s target of becoming a US$ 300 grew by 52% to Rs 599.4 million and net of 6% as against 26% at the end of Q3, while million business. “Furthermore, our profit increased by 65% to Rs 575 million, profit after tax for the year declined by 10% to investments to modernise the plants in both Teejay Lanka said in a filing with the Colombo Rs 2.139 billion, improving significantly from India and Sri Lanka are in progress,” he Port City Colombo, Sri Lanka’s brand-new Stock Exchange (CSE). 30% negative as at 31 December 2020. said.“These investments made in these reclaimed land,slated as the ‘Gateway to South Asia’, As reported in previous disclosures of Commenting on these results, Teejay Lanka turbulent times will undoubtedly position now officially becomes the country’s first service quarterly results, the impact of the extreme Chairman Bill Lam said: “I’m happy to Teejay as the leader in the textile arena of oriented Special Economic Zone (SEZ). adversity of the first quarter of the year announce that as a Group, Teejay has South Asia and will establish the Company’s The Sri Lankan Parliament,on Thursday (20), continued to be visible in the Group’s performed well in the 2020-21 financial year footprint to compete in the market in the new adopted a powerful Bill enabling a giant step in Port cumulative results for the full year, albeit at while battling with the pandemic. The Group normal environment.” City Colombo becoming a pivotal global financial and services hub for South Asia. The Act provides a stable policy environment; backed by efficient administrative processes coupled with globally competitive incentives. Sri Lanka’s Most CHEC Port City Colombo, the project company’s Managing Director Jiang Houliang welcomed the DFCC Bank Valuable Brands timely and strategic decision taken by the Sri Lankan Government in enacting the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill. The project company has among Top 100 NDB becomes the expressed confidence in the said Bill and believes that its enactment will provide the required progressive policy environment and ease of doing business to Highest Gainer ensure Port City Colombo will truly be the envisaged Consumer Brands catalyst in driving much needed FDIs and promoting DFCC Bank- the full- perception of the brand will export of services. The Project Company, invites local service commercial bank change, sometimes within the Top 20 and foreign investors to connect with the company’s has been rated among resulting in the identity of marketing team and explore the unique investment the top 100 most the brand becoming opportunities now available at Port City Colombo and valuable consumer unclear. However, to be a part of South Asia’s city of the future. brands in Sri Lanka for throughout our As per the new law, Port City Colombo will be an the year 2021. Ranking transformation from a international business and multi-services Special 27th in the survey development bank to a full Economic Zone with operations in any recognised conducted by Brand service commercial foreign currency. Experts say that Port City Colombo Finance Sri Lanka, bank,the Bank for SEZ will fill the gap between Dubai and Singapore, to DFCC Bank was able to Everyone, we have be the most sought-after hub with modern climb up one notch to positioned ourselves as a infrastructure in place. Late last year, CHEC and Sri the 27th position, brand that’s close to Lanka’s Browns Investment signed a one billion following last year’s Lakshman Silva customers in all walks of dollar joint venture for Port City Colombo’s first position as the 28th most life offering customised vertical development project - the Colombo valuable consumer brand in the financial propositions that suits The National Development Bank PLC rose up in the ranks to International Financial Centre (CIFC). country. them best carved out using the place in the Top 20 at number 16 of the world’s leading Yamuna Jayaratne, Director Sales and Marketing This is an indication of DFCC finest technology that offers independent brand valuation consultancy, according to Brand for Port City Colombo, states “Sri Lanka already Bank’s stellar performance, despite convenience to customers.” Finance Lanka’s annual index of Most Valuable Brands. enjoys a 70 to 80% advantage in the cost of doing the raging pandemic which Also adding to that sentiment, Leaping in the rankings from number 20 in 2020 to number business in comparison with established and disturbed the progress of numerous DFCC Bank’s Vice President 16 in 2021, NDB has maintained its brand at the very top mature services hubs such as Hong Kong and businesses both locally and globally. Marketing & Sustainability Nilmini becoming the highest gainer in the Most Valuable Consumer Dubai. The enactment of the Colombo Port City DFCC Bank was able to successfully Gunaratne stated, “DFCC’s brand Brands of the Movers and Shakers list in spite of the challenging Economic Commission Bill will serve to further strategise and make the best of value and strength are extremely year due to the pandemic situation. enhance this cost advantage; but more importantly these challenging times which is useful measures for tracking the NDB has continued to maintain a stable performance, steady serve to address investor pain points such as now reflected in this in-depth brand’s performance in a organic growth, competitive strengths, innovative banking efficient and timely dispute resolution and analysis conducted by Brand competitive market. The DFCC solutions and sustainability initiatives. Aiming to be the Banking administrative efficiency in terms of approvals etc. Finance Sri Lanka. brand needed awareness and Group of Choice in Sri Lanka, NDB has always been committed This improved ease of doing business; coupled with Brand Finance is the world’s visibility to be in the top towards the financial development of both individuals and cost advantages, geographic location and the quality leading independent brand consideration list when customers businesses. of life on offer in Sri Lanka would serve as a first step valuation consultancy. Brand were selecting a bank of their NDB’s Director/Group Chief Executive Officer, Dimantha in creating a compelling value proposition for Finance was set up in 1996 with the choice and today, to a great extent, Seneviratne, commenting on this occasion said, “The steady rise investors. The state of art future ready aim of ‘bridging the gap between brand awareness has facilitated to in our rank is a clear affirmation of our competence in gaining infrastructure built on sustainable principles within marketing and finance’. For more achieve this recognition over a strategic initiatives, consistently generating returns and serving Port City Colombo surrounded by the natural than 20 years, the institution has period of time amidst the multiple markets as well as our distinct performance as a unique beauty that Sri Lanka has to offer provides an helped companies and branding and communication financial services group, bringing in a wide spectrum of banking enviable physical setting required to compete with organisations of all types to connect strategies adopted. She conclude and capital market services under the NDB brand name.” any world class modern metropolitan city. Therefore, their brands to the bottom line. by saying that the DFCC brand will He added, “Factors such as embracing digitisation for internal we are very confident that Port City Colombo will be Voicing his thoughts on this continue to carry out brand process automations as well as cutting-edge customer solutions, a catalyst for FDIs into the country.” achievement, DFCC Bank CEO building initiatives that will create commitment towards empowering the women’s market segment On the sideline to the SEZ law enactment, Port Lakshman Silva said, “DFCC Bank more value and engagement with through initiatives such as NDB Araliya and Sri Lanka City Colombo launched its awareness campaign has gone through brand all stakeholders to further and Vanithabhimana, excellence in customer service and NDB’s Loku Ratak locally and is also planning its global transformations over the years. build brand loyalty and an ability to generate sound results through various unprecedented launch campaign within the year. However, plans Often, this is a challenge for expanded customer base over a challenges, help us towards becoming one of the most valuable remain fluid due to the global COVID pandemic. institutions to endure as public period of time.” brands in the country.”

Oil prices fall as Iran claims sanctions will be lifted Oil prices dropped again early on Thursday breakthrough in the indirect talks about the Rouhani said according to Iranian state was exacerbated by the prospect of a boost in after Iran’s president said that the world powers nuclear deal between the U.S. and Iran (later television, Bloomberg reported. Iranian supply as nuclear talks continue and the had accepted during the latest round of talks clarified that there has been no breakthrough) The report sent crude oil prices down for the EIA reported a 1.3 million barrels rise in crude that sanctions against Iran would be lifted. sent prices down. third day in a row as the market anticipates a stocks,” Saxo Bank analysts said early on As of 10:39 a.m. EDT on Thursday, WTI Crude On Thursday, Iranian President Hassan legitimate return of Iranian oil supply. Analysts Thursday. was trading down 0.95 per cent at US$ 62.76. Rouhani was quoted as saying that global powers say that the market would likely be able to “Brent is likely to remain stuck in a US$ 65 to Brent Crude prices had declined by 1.07 per cent taking part in the indirect U.S.– Iranian talks on absorb additional barrels from Iran, but traders US$ 70 range while the ongoing virus threat to trade below US$ 66 a barrel – at US$ 65.96. a return to the nuclear agreement had accepted and speculators react to any reported prevents a synchronised recovery in global fuel Just two days ago, Brent Crude briefly touched that the U.S. sanctions on Iran, including on its breakthrough in the talks. demand at a time of rising OPEC+ production,” US$ 70 early on Tuesday but failed to hold on to oil exports, would be removed. Oil prices tumbled to a three-week low on Saxo Bank noted. that handle later during the day as reports of a “The main agreement has been made,” Wednesday, “after the broader market slump (Oilprice.com) b6 Ceylon FT Saturday 22 may 2020 news CEAT Ranked Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand in ‘Motor’ Segment CEAT, the tyre brand manufactured consumer brands in Sri Lanka this of separate values assigned for Brand in Sri Lanka by CEAT Kelani year. Strength, Business Performance and Holdings, has been ranked the most Commenting on this achievement, External Changes. It is described as a valuable consumer brand in the CEAT Kelani Holdings Managing specific asset valuation which country’s ‘Motor’ segment in the 2021 Director Ravi Dadlani said: “We calculates the value of the Brand Finance rankings and has dedicate this recognition to the transferable element of the brand, moved up five places in the overall list. massive effort put in at every level of generally comprising the value of the The world’s leading brand valuation the Company to adapt very quickly, trademarks and associated consultancy assigned CEAT a Brand not only to the new working intellectual property. Value of Rs 2,024 million for 2021, up environment created by the pandemic, Brand Finance calculates the values a remarkable 46 per cent over 2020, but to respond to domestic market of the brands in its league tables and an overall Brand Value Rank of needs consequent to the temporary using the Royalty Relief approach – a 48 among the 100 most valuable import restrictions imposed on certain brand valuation method compliant brands in the country which include sizes of tyres. CEAT rose to the with the industry standards set in ISO the largest banks, occasion with flying colours, and the 10668. It involves estimating the likely telecommunications service providers business as well as the value of the future revenues that are attributable and retail giants. brand have grown as a result. We are to a brand by calculating a royalty Sri Lanka’s highest-selling therefore proud to be ranked among rate that would be charged for its use, pneumatic tyre brand by far, CEAT the ‘Movers and Shakers’ in this year’s to arrive at a ‘brand value’ understood also received an ‘AAA-’ Brand Rating Brand Finance rankings.” as a net economic benefit that a brand from Brand Finance. This is the According to Brand Finance, the owner would achieve by licensing the CEAT’s focus on manufacturing excellence and its support to motor racing in Sri Lanka have second best rating awarded to Brand Value is computed on the basis brand in the open market. contributed to brand value

SLT-Mobitel National Business Dialog Business Services Directory with a new look Certified as a ‘Great Workplace’ The SLT-Mobitel National Business Directory (Rainbow Pages) recently unveiled a Also Recognized as One of the ‘10 Best Workplaces brand-new look for its digital and print directories, with the new edition incorporating for Women in Sri Lanka - 2020’ a number of digital tools to create more value and continue its support towards businesses Reiterating its commitment in withstanding the impact of the COVID-19 in establishing a high- pandemic. performance and diverse work The SLT-Mobitel National Business culture delivering an Directory is the only one of its kind in the impactful contribution, Dialog country and is recognised as the most reliable Business Services (DBS), a business directory designed to connect users fully owned subsidiary of and businesses to both local and world- Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka›s renowned reputable manufacturers and premier connectivity provider, producers. recently became the first Commenting on the enhanced options, captive Customer Interaction Upul Manchanayake, Chief Executive Officer Centre within the BPM SLT Digital Info Services (Pvt) Ltd. said, “The industry to be certified as a L to R: Ruwani Alwishewa, Senior Project Manager Assessment Business, business directory is an exclusive marketing ‘Great Workplace’ whilst also Great Place to Work, Tharanga Elvitigala, Senior Manager of Human tool that can be used with the capability of being recognized as one of the Resources, Dialog Business Services, Sandra de Zoysa, Group Chief Customer Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC and Director of Dialog Business adding many extensions or mediums to as a digital directory with online platform ‘10 Best Workplaces for Services and Mayuri Fernando, Senior General Manager of Group Service amplify messages and is influential to reach capabilities and also as a print version that Women in Sri Lanka - 2020’ by Delivery, Dialog Axiata PLC and Head of Dialog Business Services out to a wide spectrum of customers across supports manufacturers, suppliers, Great Place to Work® - Sri the island. 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Earning the the digital directory which has thousands of print version of this valuable directory is expertise needed to recognise Axiata PLC and Director of certification of a ‘Great users. By adopting multiple options such as a expected to be launched soon. outstanding work Dialog Business Services Workplace’ and being Website, Online advertising, Search Engine The directory can be accessed via a range of environments. This stated, “In the service industry recognized as one of the ‘10 Optimisation, Digital Marketing, emails, cutting-edge ‘digital directory products’ such accreditation and recognition we operate, our people are the Best Workplaces for Women in messaging, etc., their ability to reach to as rainbowpages.lk, a mobile optimised represent the voice of DBS greatest asset, and we are Sri Lanka – 2020’ is a potential customers via the National Business website, via a mobile app, a directory CD and employees who responded to extremely honoured and testament to our commitment Directory from SLT-Mobitel has been the 24-hr Call Centre service on SLT 1212 & the survey by Great Place to humbled to receive this in creating and nurturing a guaranteed. We invite the entire business Mobile 444. These platforms have been Work® which primarily accreditation and recognition culture that puts its members community to get onboard with our multi- introduced to address the evolving needs of evaluated the hygiene factors as it reflects the people-centric first. We also aim to advance channel platform and capitalize on its people and organizations. of Trust through Credibility, culture and service ethos diversity and inclusion, build extensive and engaged audience.” The National Business Directory from SLT- Respect and Fairness, Pride Dialog aims to foster.” She greater transparency through Creating an attractive space for advertisers, Mobitel holds the unique position of being Sri and Camaraderie within an added “We celebrate an communication and the improved and upgraded digital directory Lanka’s only Business Directory featuring organization – pre-requisites of employee’s individuality, and collaboration and encourage rainbowpages.lk features a verified ‘true local over 6,000 business organizations, 170,000+ a foundation in establishing a we are committed to ensuring our team to be change-makers search’. This offers exposure to a massive classified and unclassified verified listings of ‘Great Workplace’. 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Samsung Tabs Make Learning from ComBank & Hayleys Agri home Fun for Pre-Primary kids launch another leasing promo Commercial Bank of Ceylon customers the country, the Bank said. With the COVID-19 pandemic still in agrarian pursuits have an opportunity Hayleys Agriculture is one of the top- raging, educational institutions once again to purchase a range of ranked firms in this sphere in the region, around the world find themselves agricultural machinery and tractors and is renowned for a wide array of more in need of technological under ‘Agri Leasing’ facilities at low innovative and sustainable agricultural assimilation than ever. rentals and flexible payment plans, with solutions that cater to the entire agri But could online classes do the renewed partnership between the value chain with high-tech horticulture justice to pre-primary level Bank and Hayleys Agriculture Holdings and biotechnology applications. The students? This is where Samsung Ltd. Company offers a range of smart steps in with the S Pen! Designed to help increase the agriculture machinery for agriculture With the Galaxy Tab S series and productivity of cultivations by providing mechanisation in Sri Lanka from its S Pen, Samsung is able to high-quality machinery and tractors, at tractors and rice trans-planters to support better collaboration attractive discounts to farmers, the sprayers and combine harvesters. Its between students, teachers and the promotion applies to the purchases of a involvement in agriculture includes management. This provides greater range of Kubota, Agrotech, and Farmtrac manufacturing, importing and utility to teachers and results in agricultural machinery from Hayleys distributing agricultural solutions such elevating the quality of education for Agriculture. This promotion will run as agri equipment, pre and post-harvest students. until the end of 2021 and offers the management systems and products, The pandemic dispelled schools convenience of flexible leasing packages, green house and protected agriculture from the normal. Teachers have to seasonal payment plans, special rentals structures as well as water teach with the best available feature turns this into digital text with primary-level students as and other benefits, the Bank said. management & irrigation systems. resource in the environment they and helps teachers prepare effective visual learning is a big part of their Notably, the Bank’s flexible repayment Sri Lanka’s first wholly carbon are placed in to ensure learning lesson plans and activities. development. The students clearly plans take into consideration the neutral bank, the first Sri Lankan continues for the students. As a Samsung Knox is a proprietary enjoy story time with animation and seasonal income patterns of farmers and bank to be listed among the Top 1,000 solution and to ease the discomfort security framework pre-installed on rhyme time with PowerPoint cultivation months, enabling customers Banks of the World and the only Sri of online teachers, they can adopt most Samsung mobile devices. With presentations. to better structure their leases. Lankan bank to be so listed for 10 the Samsung Galaxy Tab along with the Knox-empowered Galaxy Tab The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, Tab Customers interested in purchasing years consecutively, Commercial Bank its S Pen. This could lead to a rise in Series, the data on the device is S7|S7+ come with a feature where agricultural equipment can liaise with operates a network of 268 branches productivity and comfort for protected with vault-like security the pattern of the notebook page the Bank’s Agriculture & Micro Finance and 932 automated machines in Sri employees as well resulting in and it also has a toolset to keep the can be taken as the background. officers to make informed decisions and Lanka. The Bank’s overseas quality online instruction becoming devices updated remotely. This That has been immensely useful. also receive personalised services that operations encompass Bangladesh, the norm. This is a game changer helps in making the collaboration Whether it’s teaching them how to are best suited to them. where the Bank operates 19 outlets; for many organisations. The S Pen between teachers easier. write on a four-lined pattern or Joint promotions of this nature have Myanmar, where it has a Microfinance brings the comfort of pen and paper In a classroom, there is only a teaching mathematics on a page been conducted regularly over the past company in Nay Pyi Taw; and the to online teaching. Using the S Pen, green board and chalk. But a tablet that has a box pattern it gives several years and mark the continued Maldives, where the Bank has a fully- teachers can directly write on the gives a wider colour palate for greater clarity on how to write commitment of the Bank and Hayleys fledged Tier I Bank with a majority screen. The handwriting recognition teachers. This is especially useful neatly and stay within the box. Agriculture to support the agronomy of stake. Sports Saturday 22 may 2021 A7

Injury Hampers Dilshi’s Players dejected over SLC’s manner Olympic Dream of handling contract By Anjana Kaluarachchi Himasha shatters Nishan Sydney Premathiratne, Attorney-at-Law and Tharushi qualifies for official representative of the 24 member Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s Olympic dream in the own meet record World Junior C’ship cricketers to whom SLC offered contracts, have conveyed Women’s 800m faded as prime contestant their strong displeasure of how SLC handled the process Dilshi Kumarasinghe was unable to and pointed out several lapses, including mental and continue after the 300m mark due to a security concerns of players. hamstring injury at the National Athletics In a media statement, he has stated that SLC’s Championship Stage 1 held yesterday at behaviour regarding the matter was of extreme concern to Sugathadasa Stadium. the players, where they have acted in a ‘one sided Sri Lanka Athletics (SLA) decided at the manner’, while failing to explain or disclose several vital last minute to conduct the National information, including the basis on which the Championship on Friday, mainly with the categorization was made and so on. intention of giving a chance to the 800m runners to achieve Olympic qualification Full statement is as follows: standard, as all three - Dilshi, Nimali At the very outset, the players are shocked and Liyanarachchi and Gayanthika Abeyrathne - dismayed that the Management Committee of Sri Lanka were within striking distance of grabbing a Cricket, through a press conference held on 19 May 2021, world ranking position and qualifying for the has seen it fit to release to the public, specific payment Olympics. But Gayanthika’s fortunes were details of contract fees paid to specific players, in a one hampered when she injured herself two days sided manner, without placing the same in the context of ago and could not take part in the event. earnings of players in other cricketing nations, the entire Conditions were not ideal for such an earnings of Sri Lanka Cricket and also without disclosing important competition, as the track was the payments made to the officials/administrators, Dilshi being carried off the ground wet after heavy overnight rain, and with coaches and support staff of Sri Lanka Cricket. It is also a the rain continuing in the morning, worrying state of affairs when an organization embarks to chances of athletes suffering from cramps affect such disclosures and attempts to do so solely in were high. With Dilshi’s injury, Nimali too respect of one segment of its cadre. could not clock a good time, even though The players categorically state that the conduct of the she won the event in 2 minutes 06.69 Management Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket greatly seconds. concerns the players and has affected their self- Dilshi and Nimali still have a chance of confidence and peace of mind. Furthermore, these qualifying for the Olympics, but it will be disclosures in respect of payment amount to a grave extremely difficult as the National security concern to each and every player. Championship was the only local During negotiations in respect of these Annual competition which offered a bonus placing Contracts with SLC, it has always been the position of the score of 100 for first place, which is vital players that they, in principle, are agreeable to a proper, when calculating world ranking. They will transparent performance-based model, where each player either have to achieve direct qualification would be assessed and categorized on attributes of standard of 1:59.00 seconds or perform Waruna Lakshan performance. However, despite the players’ requests from Dayarathne once again much better than their current PBs in Amasha de Silva (M) on her way to 100m Gold. Also in the picture second becomes Javelin Throw the Management Committee for information regarding the higher ranked international competitions. placed Shelinda Jansen (R) and third placed Medhani Jayamanne (L) National Champion manner in which points were allocated in respect of the With the current COVID-19 situation in categorization, none of the players have been provided the world, they have to be extremely lucky against -1.5m/s wind. Shelinda Jansen with their individual assessment sheets setting out how to get such an opportunity. finished second in 12.20 seconds, while Results points were awarded under the criteria of performance, Young Tharushi Karunarathne, however, Medhani finished third in 12.21 seconds. 3000m Steeple Chase (Women): 1. fitness, leadership and professionalism. clocked a personal best of 2:07.21 seconds During the trials held earlier, Amasha Nilani Rathnayaka 9:53.95 sec, 2. H.N. The Management Committee, the Coach and the in the event to achieve World Junior clocked 11.65 seconds and teenager Kumari 10:58.11 sec, 3. Lanka Ariyadasa Selectors have, for reasons unknown to the players, to Championship qualification standard of Medhani Jayamanne clocked a personal 11:03.31 sec date, unreasonably failed and refused to disclose such 2:08.70 seconds. Tharushi is the second best of 11.93 seconds. 800m (Women): 1. Nimali Liyanarachchi information. All national players, in unison, are of the athlete to qualify, after Shanika Lakshani In the men’s 100m Himasha Eashan 2:06.69 sec, 2. Tharushi Karunarathne view that the players should be made aware of the achieved the feat during the last trials. renewed his own meet record clocking 2:07.21sec, 3. M.A. Kumari 2:08.30 sec assessment scores of each player in order to ensure Meanwhile, all other events too were 10.38 seconds, but in the final against a Javelin Throw (Women): 1. Dilhani transparency of the categorization process. This will afford hampered by rain. Amasha de Silva won heavy wind of -2.1 m/s, he could only Lekamge 52.88m, 2. Nadeeka Lakmali the players an opportunity to ascertain the manner in the 100m in 11.89 seconds running manage 10.45 seconds. 48.55m, 3. Diana Maduwanthi 48.16m which they have been categorized and to enable each Long Jump (Men): 1. Prasad Wimalasiri player the opportunity to address their weaknesses. 7.80m, 2. B.R. Herath 7.69m, 3. M.K. Failure to disclose such information creates disharmony, Karunasekara 7.58m raises reasonable concerns in respect of bias/ Para Long Jump (Men): 1. Nuwan Indika favouritism, and casts doubt as to the validity of the entire 6.38m, 2. Buddhika Heshan 6.32m, 3. process. Buddhika Indrapala 5.54m The players are also surprised that amidst ongoing Javelin Throw (Men): 1. Waruna negotiations and in the circumstances where the Dayarathne 75.91m, 2. Sumedha formulation of contracts had not been formally concluded, Ranasinghe 74.51m, 3. Sampath the Management Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, in an Ranasinghe 73.25m unreasonable hurry, attempted to place hard copies of the Javelin Throw Para (Men): 1. Dinesh Annual Contracts before the players to obtain their Priyantha 61.00m, 2. Chaminda Sampath signature a few hours before the players were to depart to 56.16m Bangladesh for the ODI series. At this juncture, the 100m (Women): 1. Amasha de Silva players’ concerns had not been addressed by Sri Lanka 11.89 sec, 2. Shelinda Jansen 12.20 sec, 3. Cricket and furthermore, the legal provisions of the Medhani Jayamanne 12.21 sec contracts had not yet been formalized. 100m (Men): 1. Himasha Eashan 10.45 It is also noteworthy that as per the information sec, 2. Sahan Rajapaksa 10.69 sec, 3. received from FICA (Federation of International Cricketers’ Chamod Yodasinghe 10.76 sec Association), the new remuneration intimated to Sri 400m (Women): 1. Nadeesha Lankan players is substantially lower (more than threefold Ramanayaka 53.32 sec, 2. Lakshima lower) in comparison with other global cricketing nations Mendis 55.68 sec, 3. A.K. (in respect of Board Earnings which are to be considered Thathsarani 55.94 sec to be on par with SLC’s Earnings). It is disheartening to 400m (Men): 1. Kalinga Kumarage 46.12 the players that the Management Committee, when sec, 2. Aruna Darshana 46.45 sec, 3. R.N. releasing the players’ contract information, has not in any Rajakaruna 47.21 sec manner attempted to reconcile these facts in any way or Nadeesha Ramanayaka defend- Nimali Liyanarachchi (R) wins 800m Gold. Also in the picture Pic by Kelum Chamara manner. FICA also confirms that the sums paid by ICC to ed her 400m title Tharushi Karunarathne (Left) who achieved World Junior Qualification cricketing boards has not reduced during the last year nor has a reduction been forecasted for the following year. Furthermore, FICA also confirms that players are allotted a certain percentage from the respective Board’s earnings in most other global jurisdictions, and such disclosures Southern Province School Sports as to Board Earnings are made to the players and the India series will help Colours Award Ceremony respective player association. Sri Lanka Cricket has in the past paid local and foreign coaches’ significant sums of money (salaries of 209 schoolgirls/boys approximately over 7 Million Rupees per month) and all SLC coffers – Shammi those facts have to be placed in context when attempting awarded Colours to highlight and portray payments to be made to Sri Two leading batsmen fail fitness tests in Dhaka Lankan cricketers. FICA also brings to light that unlike in 209 schoolgirls/boys representing the Southern other global jurisdictions, players are provided with a India have agreed to play more BCCI have decided to send a white- Province who won All Island School Sports pension scheme in together jurisdictions, However, no games on their Sri Lankan tour in ball specialists› team for the shorter Competitions in 2019 and brought fame to the such pension scheme has been set up in Sri Lanka. July to help Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) format tour of Sri Lanka with Shikar Southern Province, were felicitated at the The players concede that Sri Lanka has dropped in overcome financial losses incurred Dhawan likely to lead the side, while Southern Province School Sports Colours Award international rankings in the past few years, but refuse to due to COVID-19, re-elected Rahul Dravid is the frontrunner to Ceremony held at the Rabindranath Tagore take the entirety of blame, as such cannot be attributed President Shammi Silva disclosed coach the touring side in the absence Auditorium, University of Ruhuna Matara exclusively to the players, when the administration and all during a virtual media briefing on of Ravi Shastri, who will be with the recently. In addition, they will also receive a stakeholders are also involved in the game. Decisions Thursday. Virat Kohli-led team in England. nutritional allowance of Rs. 2,000 per month taken to scrap the SLPL in 2012 until last year when the Ceylon Today reliably learns, most While COVID-19 cases are on the throughout 2021. SLPL was recommenced as well as the number of clubs in Cricket Boards have run into huge rise in Sri Lanka just like in India, The coaches of the school athletes who obtained Sri Lanka being doubled to 24 from the initial number of financial losses due to the pandemic who too are severely affected by the colours were also rewarded at this ceremony. 12 have all contributed. which forced scheduled tours and second wave, there are no plans to It was also decided to provide Rs. 5.5 million The players also believe that the provincial tournaments tournaments to be postponed or put the tour on hold at present, as from the Provincial Council funds to each of the have been played in an ad hoc, on-and-off basis which is cancelled. there is still time to assess the 55 Provincial Council schools with the objective of also a contributing factor. Sri Lanka will also ask other situation. promoting sports in the Province. The players are NOT in agreement to sign unfair and visiting teams to play extra games to Fitness Test Dr. Willie Gamage, Secretary to the Governor of non-transparent contracts and urge SLC to not hold the boost television revenues, said Meanwhile, it is reported two Southern Province, Ranjith Yapa, Southern players at gunpoint or give the players such ultimatums. Shammi Silva. India were set to play cricketers have failed the England Province Ministry of Education, Nimal Unlike in other nations when disputes arise and result in three Twenty20 internationals, but tour fitness test (2Km run in 8min Dissanayake, Southern Province Director of players seeking other avenues by way of franchise cricket, have added three more one-day 35s) held in Dhaka yesterday while Education, and all Zonal Directors of Education the Sri Lankan players will continue to be readily available internationals. «India agreed to preparing for the Bangladesh series. of the Province as well as many distinguished to play and be selected for Sri Lanka. Going forward, the double the number of matches in SLC sources revealed two leading guests were present at this ceremony. players urge the SLC and the administrators to work on their upcoming tour and this means batsmen who were among the top run This Project was launched by the R.M. Krishan building the trust of the players, to be transparent in all we will get more revenue from scorers during recently Duminda, Southern Province Director of Sports matters and to fully address the concerns of players with television rights,» Silva told held tournaments have failed the according to a concept of the Sports and Health a view to resolving the present dispute. reporters. fitness test. However, the source Education unit of the Southern Province The players, while extending their warmest wishes to Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, further added the two players will take Education Department. Kavisha Dilhari of the newly-elected President of Sri Lanka Cricket, are the Virat Kohli-led team won›t be part in the Bangladesh tour, but if Devapathiraja College Rathgama was adjudicated confident that cordial dialogue could commence, to able to fly to the island nation for a they are to be considered for the the best School Girl and Chamod Dias of resolve these concerns at the earliest opportunity limited-overs series in July, despite upcoming England tour, they will have Richmond College Galle was adjudicated the best their long break between the WTC to pass the fitness test. School Boy in the Southern Province. final and England Test series. Hence, (MS) (IR)