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For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 12,924,765 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,615 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 3,379,896 137,572 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 569,092 BRAZIL 1,842,127 71,515 INDIA 871,499 23,078 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 727,162 11,335 11 1,981 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 7,529,772 PERU 322,710 11,682 THE ABOVE STATISTICS623 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 10.50 P.M. ON 12 JULY 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

KANDAKADU COVID-19 CLUSTER INDO-LANKA TALKS Risk of community Positive progress on debt relief The bilateral talks between Singh told The Morning. countries struggling with debt spread noted: SLMA India and on the debt Virtual meetings between burdens during the Covid-19 moratorium are progressing, Sri Lankan representatives outbreak. BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA z The Morning learnt. and their Indian counterparts Subsequently, Prime Much larger challenge this time “The discussion on the debt have been scheduled to Minister There was a higher risk of through the illegal drug distribution can spread rapidly. There were 300 cases moratorium is progressing iron out the processed debt made an official request community spread from the network. This is where the concern is. detected in one day. But it doesn’t mean successfully and a recent moratorium. to Indian Prime Minister Kandakadu Covid-19 cluster This behavioural pattern is something they were all infected on the same day. meeting was held,” Indian President Gotabaya Narendra Modi for a three- for multiple reasons including that was prevalent during the first What we can gather from the evidence High Commission Second Rajapaksa appealed to the year debt moratorium for Sri the unpredictable behavioural round of clusters Sri Lanka was able to coming is that the infection may have Secretary and Central Public international community Lanka. pattern of the patients. contain,” SLMA President Prof. Indika been going on in the camp for a few Information Officer Neha to assist the developing – Skandha Gunasekara Karunatilake told The Morning. weeks,” he said. The Sri Lanka Medical Association He also pointed out that from the Further, he pointed out that Sri Lanka’s (SLMA) warned that there was a evidence available, it appears that the containment methods may be less possibility that the virus could enter Covid-19 infection had been ongoing effective this time around. Sri Lankan society through the for several weeks at the Kandakadu “Sri Lanka followed a system of trace, PCR tests increased illegal drug trade. Rehabilitation Centre. test, and treat which was very effective BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA He said the PCR tests are being conducted SLMA President “There is a high possibility “In settings where large numbers stay in controlling the initial outbreak. in a scientific manner. Prof. Indika Karunatilake of the virus entering society together for a long duration, the infection Contd. on page 2 The Ministry of Health has increased the “Obviously we have to number of PCR tests conducted in the country increase the number of tests following the report of Covid-19-positive conducted with the new Govt. schools Membership granted persons from the Kandakadu Rehabilitation development in cases. Centre last week. We have been conducting closed till 17 July Ministry of Health Chief Epidemiologist regular tests for those Dr. Sudath Samaraweera told The Morning vulnerable people and with zCatholic schools follow suit that the number of PCR tests conducted has the new development, it The Education Ministry announced been increased following the current situation has now been increased,” yesterday that all government schools will of the country. Dr. Samaraweera said. Dr. Sudath be closed from today till 17 July due to the Samaraweera spike in Covid-19 cases in the country. The Ministry also announced that all PRIVATE BUS OWNERS CEB YET TO PAY RS. 54 B TO CPC private schools, international schools, and tuition classes are expected to follow the Government’s decision. Bus strike CEB losses Contd. on page 2 RS. 708 M FRAUD AT SANASA temporarily on the rise The failure to add more power units to the national grid for several years has resulted in Six former called off the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) recording The all-out strike by private buses has staggering losses, and the loss for this year been called off due to the resurgence of the is expected to be around Rs. 120 billion, The employees coronavirus, The Morning learnt. Morning learnt. Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association Furthermore, the CEB still owes the Ceylon President Gemunu Wijeratne told The Petroleum Corporation (CPC) a staggering arrested Morning that a private bus strike would amount of money even after the Treasury Former Deputy General Manager and five endanger the masses. has paid millions of rupees in March on former Directors of the Sanasa Society of the “If all the private buses stop operating then behalf of the board, The Morning learnt. Gampaha District have been arrested over commuters will be forced into the limited According to CEB Chairman Eng. Vijitha Former Chief Minister Isuru Devapriya receives membership to the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna financial fraud. (SLPP) party from Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at SLPP candidate ’s rally held number of CTB (Ceylon Transport Board) Herath, the Treasury paid a sum of Rs. 48 The arrest was made following the yesterday (12) at the Somaweera Chandrasiri Grounds in Piliyandala buses and trains. billion in March. investigations carried out by the Criminal PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Investigation Department (CID) in this regard, police media said. CIRCULAR 5/2001 SELF-EMPLOYMENT GENERATION Contd. on page 2 2020 GENERAL ELECTION LUNAWA SHOOTING INCIDENT Protest to be SLPP rallies President assures Three cops temporarily fullest support held today The Government will provide “Traditional industries should interdicted suspended loans, knowhow, and the technical be preserved and developed,” Three police officers involved in the BY SARAH HANNAN Over the past two weeks, facilities to generate self- the President said, adding that Lunawa shooting incident where a man discussions took place that the The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna employment, President Gotabaya measures will be taken to extend was killed have been interdicted following Environmental and multi- Cabinet of Ministers was to (SLPP) has decided to temporarily cancel Rajapaksa has assured. assistance at the provincial level to investigations, stated the Police Media sectoral organisations are to hold reassign the legal authority to all its propaganda rallies by the party and He made this pledge while all those who make a contribution Division (PMD). a protest in front of the Ministry make decisions of such forests its alliance, the SLPP General Secretary attending a public gathering towards the national economy by A police sergeant and two police constables of Environment today (13) at 2 from the Forest Department to the stated. on Saturday (11) at the Urban engaging in self-employment. have been interdicted in this manner by p.m. over the possible revocation divisional and district secretariats; The directives have been issued by Council Ground in Kadugannawa, The President, addressing Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Circular 5/2001. to decide and allocate the forests SLPP Founder , the Yatinuwara, organised in support a gathering at Thalathuoya, C.D. Wickramaratne. Their objective is to urge the for cultivation and development statement by Attorney-at-Law Sagara of the candidates of the Sri Lanka Hewahata, called on the public Contd. on page 2 authorities to continue enacting purposes for the residents of the Kariyawasam read. Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) to give him a strong and stable Circular 5/2001 which protects respective areas. Contd. on page 2 contesting the parliamentary Parliament. REPATRIATION OF SRI LANKANS other state forests of the country. Contd. on page 2 election this August. Contd. on page 2 COVID-19 KANDAKADU CLUSTER Halted for Postal voting Numbers on the rise postponed in 3-4 days With another Covid-19 cluster medical care at selected hospitals Senapura Rehabilitation Centre. The Presidential Secretariat has stated activated from the Kandakadu across the country. Sri Lanka The remaining 14 persons were that the ongoing Sri Lankan migrant worker Rehabilitation Centre since 7 has so far seen 2,605 cases of in close association with them, Rajanganaya and student repatriation is to be halted from July, the country has seen a spike Covid-19 confirmed, with 1,981 according to the Department of The casting of postal votes in the tomorrow (14) onwards for a period of three in cases, recording the highest already recovered and returned Government Information. Rajanganaya Divisional Secretariat to four days. number of cases on a single day home. However, 99 persons On 11 July, 13 patients were area has been postponed, according to “Given the increasing number of Covid-19 which reached 300 on 10 July. placed under observation are detected from the Treatment and the Anuradhapura District Secretary. cases that are reported from the Kandakadu As of 4 p.m. yesterday (12), 94 suspected of having contracted Rehabilitation Centre – East in The new date will be announced by Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre, new cases were reported to have Covid-19. Kandakadu and the rest of the Election Commission. which was used as a Quarantine Centre, the tested positive for the coronavirus Among the latest cases, 30 cases were close associates Government has decided to temporarily halt infection, the Ministry of Health 76 of them were persons of the inmates, the Department the repatriation programme. confirmed. That raised the total transferred from the Kandakadu of Government Information said. Contd. on page 2 active cases to 614 that are under Rehabilitation Centre to the Contd. on page 2 2 the morning FOCUS/NEWS Monday, July 13, 2020

CRIMINAL DATABASE OF PARLIAMENTARIANS Spotlight on MPs’ actions BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA election. At the same time, I must project, Gajanayake dismissed the point out that this will not be an easy various names being circulated and The Centre for Monitoring As an organisation, we are task, as we will have to examine We are hoping to conduct a noted that the CMEV was yet to If they’re genuine and want Election Violence (CMEV), in a hoping to set up an exclusive various sources for information violence-free election programme. come up with a name. to show that they’re clean and novel initiative, has decided website to reveal all the criminal including the National Library, We see an increase in hate “‘MPLeaks is a nonsense name qualified for public office, then to introduce a database records of MPs who are going newspapers, law reports, and law speech on social media platforms suggested by the MPs. We have not they should reveal their assets containing information on to be elected at this upcoming research. It’s a huge project. All and in the media. This is a even discussed a name for the site.” and liabilities. They can publish all the illegal activities by election this will be sent to the committee. precursor to election violence. Violence-free election it on their Facebook page or parliamentarians, for public CMEV Media Co-ordinator Then, they will have around 10-12 So, we are planning to conduct even send it to us so that we can viewing, once the new Manjula Gajanayake meetings. After all that, we will set a programme to promote a Meanwhile, the Campaign for publish it Parliament is formed this up the website. I think the whole violence-free election Free and Fair Election (CaFFE) is PAFFREL Executive Director project will take a minimum of six to bring all candidates under one year. CaFFE Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi multiple fields including law and months,” Gajanayake said. Manas Makeen umbrella to make a pledge towards CMEV Media Co-ordinator academia. The CMEV noted that one of the a nonviolent election campaign. Manjula Gajanayake told The “Frankly, we still have a lot project’s key aims is to provide a “We are hoping to conduct a People’s Action for Free and Fair Morning that it would also include more homework to do. However, platform on which the citizenry can India where they decreed that when violence-free election programme. Election (PAFFREL) has called on details on all parliamentarians at present, we are hoping to do two access information to make more political parties are submitting their We see an increase in hate speech all candidates and political parties to elected at the upcoming general things for this project. One is to informed decisions on their public nominations, they must submit all on social media platforms and declare their assets and liabilities. election. appoint a consultative committee representatives. criminal records as well. It is the in the media. This is a precursor “As the 12 March Movement, we “As an organisation, we are comprising 12 individuals with a “This could be a base document prime responsibility of secretaries of to election violence. So, we are urge the candidates to publicise their hoping to set up an exclusive good track record from the legal that citizens can refer to when political parties.” planning to conduct a programme assets and liabilities documents. If website to reveal all the criminal field as well as academics from deciding to vote at the 2025 He said that he hoped Sri Lanka to promote a violence-free they’re genuine and want to show records of MPs who are going to be social science, especially from election.” too would be able to pass such a law election. that they’re clean and qualified elected at this upcoming election,” universities.” soon after this database is set up and “We will go to all the districts and for public office, then they should he said. Secondly, he said that the Additional prospects made public. invite party supporters, candidates, reveal their assets and liabilities. Gajanayake explained that it CMEV would peruse all available He said that the CMEV had got “This is a law now in India. But and religious leaders to one place They can publish it on their would be a comprehensive and material, from what’s in libraries to the idea for such a database from a this is not the same in Sri Lanka. and make a pledge to conduct a Facebook page or even send it to us accurate database which would be newspaper articles, in order to find similar project being done in India. Our hope is that once we have set violence-free election. They will all so that we can publish it. But they formulated by an expert committee information on parliamentarians “I had firsthand experience up this website, the citizens, election come under one umbrella and the don’t have to send it to us if they are drawing from various sources and feed it to the consultative in India, where civil society court, or any other vested party can candidates will ask their supporters willing to publish it themselves,” available. committee. organisations are doing the same go to the Supreme Court and look to refrain from any violence,” PAFFREL Executive Director The expert committee would “We hope to obtain information thing. This comes after a landmark for a similar remedy.” CaFFE Executive Director Manas Rohana Hettiarachchi told The consist of independent experts from of all those elected at the upcoming verdict by the Supreme Court of With regard to a name for the akeen told The Morning. Morning. Contd. from page 1

quarantine facilities to house the public meeting organised by Wasantha precautions have now been taken in Risk of... Six former... returning Sri Lankans once the Yapa Bandara in Kiribathkumbura, Numbers on... Rajanganaya after admitting both the However, with the Kandakadu It is reported that the suspects had repatriation commences. Yatinuwara. Residents in the area have Further, four returnees from the UAE father and child for treatment,” he cluster and with some who may given permission to grant a total of “In the next few hours, two flights are appealed to the President to develop and one from Kuwait, who are under added. be having links with illegal drug nearly Rs. 708 million belonging to expected to arrive from the Maldives Kiribathkumbura as a fully fledged quarantine, tested positive for the novel In view of the numbers on duty distribution networks, the contact the Sanasa Society of the Gampaha and Jordan which will bring in nearly modern town. coronavirus on the same day. and detainees at both centres, both tracing process is more challenging. District to a private company from 500 Sri Lankans; this will be the last The President has engaged in cordial In addition, two patients from the President and Prime Minister had This factor also carries the risk of the 2011 to 2016. flights before the temporary halt is conversations with the people who Welikanda, five from Rajanganaya, instructed Lt. Gen. Silva to immediately epidemic moving into the community The arrestees, aged 55, 62, 65, 75, and imposed on 14 July. Once the patients attended meetings at Bogambara, and one each from Habaraduwa and take steps to convert the nearby Army- transmission stage. This possibility of 81 years are residents of Minuwangoda, who are reported from the Kandakadu Kandy, and the Ampitiya Public Ground Lankapura were identified. These managed Kandakadu Quarantine Centre community transmission is a more Gampaha, Kotugoda, Wattala, cluster are brought under control and in Senkadagala organised by former cases were also confirmed to be to a field hospital where some 500 serious concern than speculations of a Badalgama, and Kotadeniyawa. sufficient facilities and staff can be State Minister Dilum Amunugama, close associates of the Kandakadu Covid-19-infected persons can be second wave.” Another challenge for They were remanded until 14 allocated for the returning Sri Lankans, the President’s Media Division (PMD) Rehabilitation Centre’s inmates who treated, anticipating a further increase this strategy is the fact that both society July after being produced before we will recommence the repatriation said in a release. had contracted the disease. Thereby, in positive cases upon receipt of PCR and the authorities seem to have a more the Gampaha Magistrate’s Court on programme,” Colombage reiterated. Attending a gathering at Galaha, 57 positive cases of Covid-19 were test results. relaxed attitude with regard to Covid- Saturday (11). Hewahata, President Rajapaksa said detected on 11 July. It is believed that the infection would 19 safety measures, he said, adding the best possible solutions will be On 10 July, with another counsellor have been brought there by drug addicts that It is of paramount importance Protest to... given for the issues faced by the estate from the Kandakadu Treatment and who had been there by way of a court to gazette the regulations regarding Three cops... “We have been told that the community, while assuring that priority Rehabilitation Centre testing positive order for rehabilitation a few days ago preventive measures without delay. These steps have been taken in Presidential Secretariat is to call the will be given to educational and health for Covid-19 at Rajanganaya, 300 or by 116 persons who had visited those Nevertheless, Prof. Karunatilake view of the findings of the internal relevant stakeholders for a meeting needs. The meeting had been organised villagers including 70 children from the relatives under rehabilitation on 4 July said that contact tracing was still the investigations carried out by the Mount on Tuesday, 14 July, where they by Berty Arulswamy. area were placed under self-quarantine, after restrictions were lifted. All of best strategy for Sri Lanka. Lavinia Senior Superintendent of are to discuss matters pertaining to During a meeting held in Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra those visitors were identified and are “This time, we face a much Police (SSP) on the incident, stated Circular 5/2001, which at present, Nawalapitiya, President Rajapaksa Silva stated. now kept in self-quarantine. larger challenge in controlling than Police Media Spokesman SSP Jaliya stands as the only document that is had received blessings from the Maha On 9 July, 56 persons from previously. But I think we should still Senaratne. protecting other state forests. However, Sanga of the area who chanted pirith the Kandakadu Treatment and stick to the same strategy of trace, test, On 10 July, a 39-year-old fisherman when we checked with the Forest at the Jayathilaka Playground in Rehabilitation Centre and a female Bus strike... and treat,” he said. was shot dead by officers of the Department, they said they had not been Nawalapitiya. counsellor employed at the centre This will increase the chance of the Angulana Police Station during an informed,” Centre for Environmental Eight United National Party (UNP) had tested positive for Covid-19. The virus spreading. So we have decided altercation at a roadblock in Lunawa, Justice Executive Director Hemantha members of the Pradeshiya Sabha of female counsellor employed at the to call off the strike because of the Govt. schools... Moratuwa. Withanage told The Morning. the Ganga Ihala Korale Division and Kandakadu Rehabilitation Centre had re-emergence of the Covid-19 virus,” Meanwhile, all Catholic private The post mortem was carried out He also pointed out that the President two members from the Pasbage Korale tested positive from the Marawila area. he noted. However, he said that they schools too decided to follow the on Saturday (11) at the Kalubowila had appointed a committee to look Division, who joined hands with the The Ministry of Health stated that a would operate with a 50% seat capacity decision to close till 17 July, the Teaching Hospital, which revealed into the possible impact it would SLPP recently, have met the President second inmate of the Welikada Prison and an increased fare rate. General Manager of Catholic Private that the fisherman in question had cause should the other state forest at this meeting, the PMD said further. had tested positive for the virus. This “We will only allow half the seats to Schools announced yesterday. been shot in the head. land be repurposed for cultivation They have assured the President of their patient is one of the inmates who had be filled in each bus to maintain social The Ministry of Education earlier Residents have charged that the or development work. He added support to fulfil his vision. come into close contact with the inmate distancing measures. But we will be stated that if the present situation police officers had been drunk at the that neither an environmental Estate workers who gathered at who had previously tested positive. increasing the ticket price by one-and- in the country continues, it will be time of the incident. organisation representative nor the the Nawalapitiya Bus Stand have All 1,150 detainees and employees a-half times the usual amount.” compelled to close all schools, piriven Forest Department is included in the requested the President to assist them affiliated to the Ministry of Justice- In addition, he said the union would institutions, and other educational committee to advise on the adverse in ensuring a fair market price for managed two rehabilitation centres discuss their demands of a Rs. 10 per institutions across the island in order Halted for... effects of destroying the forests. their products. for drug prevention, treatment, and kilometre fuel subsidy with President to assist with the measures taken to Since the country relaxed its travel Last week, many environmentalists The Government has mooted several rehabilitation in the Kandakadu and Gotabaya Rajapaksa. prevent the spread of the virus. restrictions and commenced the and environmental conservation groups plans to protect the local farmer, Senapura areas in the Polonnaruwa “We will meet with the President and In a statement, the Ministry said an repatriation process, closer to 16,000 raised concerns over the Cabinet President Rajapaksa stated, while District underwent PCR tests. hash out our demands. In addition to information centre was set up with the Sri Lankans from 65 countries were approving the repurposing of other state adding that protecting the tea industry “After the detection of the Covid-19- the fuel subsidy, we also demanded that involvement of provincial education able to return,” Additional Secretary forests for cultivation and development, has always been a priority. positive detainee from the Welikada the monthly toll to provincial councils, directors and health promotion officers to the President for Foreign Relations which later on prompted the President The President was also informed Prisons on Tuesday (7), who had known as the ‘log sheet’, be scrapped at the premises of the Ministry. (Retd.) Admiral Jayanath Colombage to advise the Cabinet of Ministers to of the land issues faced by a number returned from that Kandakadu till December,” Wijeratne said. To contact the centre, call 1988, told The Morning. reconsider the decision. of residents in Nawalapitiya. He Rehabilitation Centre, all prison Last week, the private bus unions fax 0112 785 818, or email info@ He further stated that considering The Cabinet is to act on the has advised former State Minister detainees and prison staff in Welikada had decided to carry out an islandwide moe.gov.lk. the present situation, the team that recommendation that would be put to discuss were subjected to about 700 PCR tests, strike from today (13) onwards if their Further, this information centre will is overlooking Covid-19 prevention forth by the special committee that this matter with the Chairman of the but all of them were confirmed negative demands were not met. operate as a body to gather information and control, comprising the tri-forces is appointed to look into the matter. Land Reforms Commission and for the virus. On the same day, all – Skandha Gunasekara relating to all localities where schools and healthcare officials, will be given provide solutions for the affected. individuals inside the Kandakadu are located. sufficient time to set up additional President Rajapaksa also paid Rehabilitation Centre underwent PCR SLPP rallies... attention to the request to establish tests and 57 of those individuals were CEB losses... Accordingly, the SLPP rallies a technical college and a higher confirmed positive for the virus; of As learnt by The Morning, the scheduled to be held on 13, 14, and education institute targeting the youths them was one female who is serving as Treasury paid the CEB its dues out of Cartoon of the day 15 July, with the participation of in Nawalapitiya tea estates, the PMD’s an instructor at the centre but currently the profits earned by the CPC due to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and release read further. on leave in the Marawila area. Soon the reduction of fuel prices in the world Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, This meeting had been organised by after she was diagnosed positive, her market. Speaking to The Morning, have been cancelled. former State Minister Aluthgamage. parents, family members, and associates Herath said that the CEB still owes Basil Rajapaksa has further requested President Rajapaksa subsequently have now been referred to PCR tests, the CPC around Rs. 54 billion. SLPP candidates to limit their meetings participated in a public meeting kept in quarantine by the Army, and “The Treasury paid Rs. 48 billion, and small-scale rallies as well. organised by former Deputy Minister are awaiting results of those reports,” and Rs. 10 billion has been paid as However, if they are to hold small- Anuradha Jayarathna at the Gampola Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva said. transport cost. The rest has been scale meetings, they must strictly Railway Station. Commenting on the detection of a deducted from the CEB’s debt,” he follow the guidelines issued by the President Rajapaksa received 11-year old Covid-19 positive child added. According to him, the total health sector, the statement read. blessings from all local religious from Rajanganaya in Anuradhapura amount the CEB has to pay the CPC leaders including the Maha Sangha. after an employee in the Kandakadu as debt was Rs. 92 billion. A group of Advanced Level (A/L) Rehabilitation Centre, who was found As claimed by the Chairman, the President... students have requested the President positive, visited Yaya-5 in Rajanganaya reason for the CEB’s losses was due The President said this in response to to postpone the examination to October for a funeral and also the subsequent to its failure to add a single unit of a request made by the people to change and he assured that this matter will be alms giving, he said that all attendees power to the national grid since 2015. the electoral system as they do not directed to the Minister of Education. at the funeral and the alms giving, The CEB is likely to record a loss have an organiser for their respective He noted this during a public gathering totalling about 230 individuals have of over Rs. 120 billion in 2020 based electorate. People have also requested at the Alapawila Playground in now been placed in self-quarantine. on the current projections, according to set up cold storage in Thalathuoya. Udunuwara, Dawulagala organised “This episode has developed from 1-4 to experts. The President then attended the by SLPP candidate Adam Fariz. July during his visit and all necessary – Maheesha Mudugamuwa the morning 3 Monday , July 13, 2020 business SL and Vietnam discuss Local SMEs invite Indian co-operation over SMEs for joint ventures competition in apparel Sri Lankan SMEs have called on their Indian entrepreneur network consisting Trade (GCPIT) Chairperson Sri Lanka and in Vietnam announced opportunities, particularly counterparts for sustainable cross-border joint of more than 4,500 firms as Ayanthi Gurusinghe, Vietnam have reached an yesterday (12). in maintaining supply ventures on 9 July. The invitation, issued via the members. COSMI was formed Federation of Chambers of agreement to co-operate Ambassador Gamage and chains and finding online global leadership platform “Indo-Sri Lanka in 2019, and aims to revive and Commerce and Industry over competition in Chairman Giang engaged new source markets. International Trade, Investment, Technology foster the MSME and industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) the post-Covid global in a comprehensive Ambassador Gamage Transfer Co-operation” on 9 July conducted by the sectors of Sri Lanka. Secretary General/CEO economic environment discussion relating to also proposed that VITAS Representing Sri Lankan Ajith D. Perera, and Thisath and to explore mutually the apparel and textiles link and co-operate Confederation of Indian Micro, Small, and Medium SMEs at this pioneering global Wijayagunawardane PC. beneficial trade sectors of Sri Lanka and with the Joint Apparel Enterprises, called Indian SME investors to partner leadership session by India’s India is Sri Lanka’s fourth- opportunities. Vietnam respectively, with Association Forum in six frontline segments in Sri Lanka through joint CIMSME titled “Indo-Sri largest export destination. Sri This was during special emphasis on the Sri Lanka (JAAFSL), ventures - metal, food processing, coconuts, tea, and Lanka International Trade, Lanka has been given 4,400 a meeting between challenges confronting which was generously rubber and plastic. Investment, Technology product lines, tariff-free by Ambassador of Sri Lanka the industry during the welcomed, stating that Transfer Co-operation”, India under the Indo-Sri Lanka to Vietnam Prasanna Covid-19 pandemic, and such linkages would “We are thinking of bringing Industries) can form affiliations Rajabdeen also voiced that Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA). Gamage and Vietnam potential co-operation in undoubtedly be beneficial in new technology and with CIMSME to support many women entrepreneurs are 65% of products exported from Textile and Apparel the post-Covid business to both countries, and machinery from India to revive our SMEs. We can also not coming forward to register India to Sri Lanka comes out of Association (VITAS) environment. also that JAAFSL would Sri Lanka’s sick industries. facilitate our SMEs to visit their SMEs. the ISFTA. Chairman Vu Duc Giang. Giang highlighted be able to visit VITAS at Metal industries, food and see Indian machinery and “COSMI has requested the Sri Lankan exports to India VITAS is the powerful the importance of an opportune date in the processing, coconut, plastic and technologies with a view to Government to ask women have increased substantially umbrella organisation of co-operation between future. rubber, and value addition for acquire them to be competitive entrepreneurs to come forward in the past 18 years since apparel and textiles sector apparel and textile- Sri Lankan Embassy tea are high potential sectors locally and globally. Our Prime and register so that they can 2000 – the year Indo-Sri Lanka entrepreneurs in Vietnam. exporting countries in Vietnam Commercial for partnership for Indian Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa avail themselves to a host of FTA came into force. In 2019, The meeting was held in Asia, rather than Secretary Prasadi investors. Members of the has endorsed public-private facilities including access to bilateral trade between India in Hanoi to discuss competition. Ambassador Boomawalage assisted Confederation of Indian Micro, partnerships to advance our finance,” said Rajabdeen. and Sri Lanka totalled $ 4.59 co-operation between Gamage, in agreement Ambassador Gamage Small, and Medium Enterprises SMEs,” said COSMI Founder Joining the forum along billion. Exports from India to Sri Lanka and Vietnam with the Chairman, and Chairman Giang was (CIMSME) can join us in this. President Nawaz Rajabdeen on with COSMI’s Rajabdeen, Sri Lanka surged from $ 600 in the apparel and textile reasoned that, indeed, assisted by VITAS Acting We at COSMI (Confederation 9 July. were Global Council for the million in 2001 to $ 4,495 sectors on 9 July 2020, the present challenges Secretary General Hoang of Micro, Small, and Medium CIMSME is an Indian Promotion of International million in 2018. the Sri Lankan Embassy have generated numerous Ngoc Anh. NDB launches Autogroup Reverse Planner to SLT, Mobitel, and celebrates 25th manage monthly Manusath Derana year internationally recurring expenses 1 m masks donation and in Sri Lanka The National Development Bank (NDB) recently launched the bank’s latest product – the NDB Reverse Planner – created as a means to provide the bank’s customers a convenient way in which they can NDB Chairman Eshana de Silva and NDB Group take care of their CEO Dimantha Seneviratne presenting the Autogroup International Chairman/Founder Peter Norman Hill monthly recurring Reverse Planner Account Certificate to former Sri (seated) with Autogroup International, Sri Lanka Managing Director Chamath Tennekoon expenses or a way Lanka National in which they can Branch relocation decreased due to Autogroup International, receive a monthly ceremony. various reasons such a global company that has instalment in The NDB as pay cuts. The operations in Sri Lanka and order to manage Reverse Planner Reverse Planner specialises in left to right their expenses was introduced allows customers to hand conversion of American prudently. so that customers have the ability to vehicles, celebrates its 25th Right-hand-converted dashboard This facility will may receive an receive a monthly international anniversary this allow the customer identified amount agreed amount year. Managing Director Chamath to deposit a lump from their savings without having Autogroup International Tennekoon. sum amount to the automatically to worry about is a fully Australian-owned The company specialises proposed account without manually finances. Bank of Investment (BOI)- in the conversion of all types and automatically monitoring and The bank, which approved company with of American vehicles from receive a pre- withdrawing on a is the fourth largest Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT) and SLT Mobitel together with Manusath Derana are currently offices in Dallas in the US and cars, pickup trucks, and identified amount given periodic basis. listed commercial conducting Smile Within; the one million masks donation and awareness campaign Melbourne in Australia. After SUVs including Chevrolet on a periodic basis, This product bank in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Telecom to make Sri Lanka a of the World Health a few years of its inception, Silverado, Chevrolet Camaro, throughout a given was inspired by the is one of the fastest PLC (SLT) and SLT much safer place while Organisation (WHO) to Autogroup expanded its wings GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, tenor. events during the growing banks, Mobitel together with returning to normalcy. wear masks. to Sri Lanka and the fully Ford Raptor, Cadillac The very first lockdown period having had a Manusath Derana are This programme is The campaign started fledged facility, situated in Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, deposit of the due to Covid- cumulative average currently carrying implemented as a public in and is being Kaduwela, provides vehicle and many more. Autogroup NDB Reverse 19, where many growth rate (CAGR) out Smile Within; the service in response continued in public conversion services with collaborates with brands such Planner was made individuals saw an in advances by 21% one million masks to the Covid-19 places around the country industry-leading expertise. as Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, by cricket legend increase in their and in deposits by donation and awareness pandemic, following including the Northern “Converting a vehicle is a Hummer, Dodge, Ford, Sanath Jayasuriya expenses even 25% in the last four campaign that helps the recommendation and Eastern provinces. daunting task and it involves Lincoln, Toyota, and Nissan. at the Kohuwala after their income years. a lot of planning, R&D, new Autogroup International is the manufacturing processes such first company of its kind in as 3D printing, and lots of the world to convert a 2020 new ideas – we encourage it Lincoln Navigator to a right all the time. Major changes hand drive. Maliban becomes first food company include dashboard – 100% ‘’We at Autogroup act as manufactured in Sri Lanka, a turnkey operation where currently transitioning to customers can purchase a plastic injection molding, vehicle from us or they can with SLSI Covid-19 certification steering rack, HVAC system, convert their vehicles bought Biscuit-manufacturing giant, and the ergonomics of the from other suppliers while we Maliban Biscuit Manufactories (Pvt.) relationship with the driver – take care of the entire process Ltd. was recently awarded with the seat, steering wheel, pedals, from shipments to insurance, Covid-19 safety management system gear shifter, etc. loading or unloading the certification from the Sri Lanka “Safety systems are a vehicles to ports around the Standards Institution (SLSI). Maliban critical aspect, which need world. We prioritise safety is the first food-manufacturing to be properly refitted as well as the overall design company to receive this sought-after and recalibrated for their to provide an unmatched certification. effective operation. The service to our customers and Maliban said this certification vehicle’s electronic system our highly skilled workforce reflects a well-planned Covid-19 also requires major tweaks make it possible for us to safety management system which such as lane departure, sustain the level of ingenuity,’’ will be vital for the safety of the collision alert, auto park, said Autogroup International company’s employees, customers, and heads-up-display (HUD), Chairman/Founder Peter all other stakeholders. Additionally, Maliban Biscuit Manufactories (Pvt.) Ltd. Chairman A.G. Ratnapala Samaraweera Maliban Group Managing Director keyless entry, seat memory, Norman Hill. Kumudika Fernando as the nature of the progression of this receives Covid-19 safety management system certification from SLSI Director General Dr. seat heating, screen controls, At present, the company pandemic is unpredictable, Maliban Siddhika G. Senarathna and on-screen menus. A exports left to right hand said it has made an effort to maintain the food-manufacturing industry, of Health and other applicable state pandemic in school environments, skilled workforce and a drive-converted vehicles to and continually improve the Covid- we understand the importance of legislative requirements, Maliban through the “Safe Schools” project. highly qualified engineering countries such as India, the 19 safety management system so that operating in a sterile environment and is also operating in line with the Alongside these efforts, Maliban also team takes care of the whole UK, Indonesia, South Africa, their business operations may resume carry out appropriate measures across regulations put forward by the donated its products, special cold process to bring out a product and Malaysia while 90% of in an environment safe from the group to mitigate the spread of the Government of Sri Lanka. storage facilities, and highly essential of international standard. the company’s output goes Covid-19. pandemic. This certification means During Covid-19, apart from its medical equipment to the National We are geared to convert to Australia. The company Speaking with regard to the that all individuals and stakeholders internal efforts to ensure a safe Institute of Infectious Diseases the latest 2020/21 models, is Australian Design Rules achievement of this certification, associated with Maliban are protected and secure environment for its Hospital (IDH), aided the Manusath which have also opened up a (ADR) compliant, a motor Maliban Group Managing from the threat of Covid-19.” employees, Maliban partnered with Derana Programme, and contributed new market opportunity for vehicle standard accepted by Director Kumudika Fernando As the SLSI standard is subjected to the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Rs. 10 million to the Government’s us,” commented Autogroup The Commonwealth and most commented: “As a key player in the guidelines issued by the Ministry (SLRCS) to mitigate the risk of the Covid-19 fund. International, Sri Lanka other right hand drive markets. 4 the morning brunch Monday, July 13, 2020

“Stand out in PRIDE photography competition Judge’s Choice Award winner” Stand out in PRIDE Colombo PRIDE has been taking How Colombo PRIDE 2020 is being Entries for the competition close on place since 2005 and is organised 30 July 2020. The criteria for the by EQUAL GROUND, Sri Lanka’s celebrated in the midst of the pandemic competition are that entries must leading advocate of political and incorporate the rainbow in some way human rights for LGBTIQ individuals and must be new videos that have been in Sri Lanka. Through a calendar of specifically filmed to submit to Stand events typically spread out across Out in PRIDE. Prizes will be awarded the month of June, Colombo PRIDE for the best singer, best dancer, and affords the marginalised LGBTIQ best instrumentalist. community of Sri Lanka the time and The fourth major event being space once a year, to stand proud and held is a talk series. Titled Stand tall and join with each other to truly Out in PRIDE – Let’s Talk on Social celebrate their diversity. Media, the event takes place in the This year, in the wake of the Covid- form of very informal webinars with 19 pandemic, EQUAL GROUND community members chatting about Executive Director Rosanna Flamer- Harasgama, and photographer Kesara their lives, careers, and what makes Caldera has taken Colombo PRIDE Ratnavibhushana. them tick. Stand Out in PRIDE – Let’s virtual, with a calendar of events and In addition to the Judge’s Choice Talk on Social Media takes place activities spread out across June and Award, members of the LGBTIQ in all three languages and will take July, under the banner “Stand out in community were given the chance place several times a week. Stand PRIDE”. to vote for their favourite entry on Out in PRIDE – Let’s Talk on Social The Morning Brunch reached out to Facebook and pick a winner for the Media last week launched and featured Flamer-Caldera to learn more about Community Choice Award, with the author, actor, singer, and songwriter Stand Out in PRIDE. winners of both the Judge’s Choice Brandon Ingram and award-winning Flamer-Caldera explained that Award and the Community Choice actress Nimmi Harasgama. Stand Out in PRIDE takes place Award receiving a cash prize of This coming week will feature through four major events or Rs. 10,000 each. Moreover, seven discussions with celebrity chef, platforms. runners-up were awarded consolation EQUAL GROUND Executive Director restaurateur, and entrepreneur Koluu The first was a photography prizes of Rs. 2,500 each. The Rosanna Flamer-Caldera and Jaffna Transgender Network competition, for which members of competition was held with the support Founder Angel Queentus. The the LBGTIQ community were asked of the US Embassy in Sri Lanka. Venus, directed by Eisha Marjara, online discussions take place live on BY NAVEED ROZAIS to send in a selfie or photograph An interactive online gallery which is a funny, transgender- EQUAL GROUND’s Instagram page of themselves that incorporated environment has been created oriented movie. and will be put up post discussion on Gay pride or LGBTIQ pride is the annual celebration of dignity, the rainbow in some way. The to showcase the photographs of The third large event of Stand Out in the Colombo PRIDE Facebook page. equality, and increased visibility of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, rainbow rule was the only rule for participants online and create a more PRIDE is an online music and dance Let’s Stand Out in PRIDE hopes Transgender and Queer/Questioning (LGBTIQ) people as a the competition. The competition tangible exhibition feel. competition being held in lieu of the to achieve the same as a traditional, social group. PRIDE, as opposed to shame or social stigma, received over 90 entries with one The second event was the virtual music and dance festival typically held physical PRIDE event and hopes to is an opportunity to celebrate and bolster LBGTIQ rights winner being selected for the Abhimani Film Festival Watch Party, as part of Colombo PRIDE each year. provide LBGTIQ persons with a safe movements across the world. PRIDE events typically take Judge’s Choice Award by a panel held in collaboration with the High The competition calls for members space where they can participate, feel place in the month of June, although it is common for different including Flamer-Caldera, author Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka. of the LGBTIQ community to send accepted, and celebrate their strength and publisher Ameena Hussein, The film festival was a virtual movie in videos of themselves singing, and diversity. communities in different parts of the world to celebrate PRIDE PHOTOS COLOMBO PRIDE in July as well. award-winning actress Nimmi platform that screened the movie dancing, or playing an instrument.

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE is their wine lounge cheekily named “Grape Expectations”. They shared that this is mainly Colombo Court Hotel & Spa is the eco- an attraction that is popular with their European friendly urban hideaway you didn’t know you guests who frequent the space, as they offer needed. Located smack-dab in the middle of a certain experience where you will be taken Colombo, the venue, which is South Asia’s first to the property’s wine cellar to pick out your carbon-neutral property, maintains a tranquil, choice of wine, and you are also able to spend private ambience despite being surrounded by time in the plush, beautifully lit space as you the city’s cosmopolitan vibes. go about your leisure. Post-curfew operations Green-friendly We spoke to the management at Colombo Colombo Court remains a unique offering Court about how they have fared after the in the city’s boutique hotel circuit, not only effects of Covid-19. because of the many amenities they have, but They shared that while during the lockdown because the building itself carries so much they were available on Uber Eats and continued character. services, once curfew was lifted, they The property itself was interestingly, opened up the property on 9 July. originally a large office space that was not Colombo Court adopted a different approach demolished but simply realtered, expanding in comparison to other similar hotels, choosing office clusters into rooms, thereby adding to open up gradually rather than all at once; character to each and every room. first opening their outlets for locals before The Corea House Wing at Colombo Court, progressively making their rooms available. the first French Embassy in Sri Lanka which Since the venue has opened post curfew, was previously occupied by Lankan politician Colombo Court made available special Mr. Corea, was designed by one of Jeffrey packages for their guests to use their rooms Bawa’s students, relating an important bit together with their various other services. Colombo Court of history. They spoke about the new normal and Amongst all the many things that Colombo adapting to the safety and health guidelines Court is doing to remain as they are, they set out by the Ministry of Health, stating that have also revived their much-recognised it is not an easy task, especially being a single- sustainability programme. owner property, rather than a chain property, In addition to extensive water refiltering, and at a time where there is no revenue for they utilise solar power and the majority of the property. Hotel & Spa materials they use within the hotel is recycled. They shared that they disinfect their The waste oil from their kitchen is sent to a washrooms every half an hour, conduct company that recycles the oil and exports it temperature checks, carry out sanitisation The perfect hideout in the middle of the city for different purposes and the entirety of the procedures, and all the other necessary property is adorned with recycled artwork. guidelines which were recommended by the go on to use a room and have a meal. However, lunch. However, the staff did share their The hotel is built on the premise of being as Ministry of Health. Colombo Court added that primarily, the local audience tends to frequent preferences, saying that it is a perfect breakfast green-friendly as possible and it is the ideal while it has been a big weight, they believe the outlets i.e. the restaurants. spot and that it also has a very romantic place for the green-conscious person to indulge in the importance of these guidelines and the Colombo Court shared that their unique atmosphere. Therefore, they also let this area in a guilt-free, leisurely experience. health and safety of their employees and guests, composition attracts guests who visit both for out for small, intimate weddings. It provides which is their priority. As such, they look at it leisure and business. for all-day dining and you can expect a range as an investment. of dishes available on their a la carte menu, Outlets from steaks to East Asian-style dishes like the Hotel The flagship restaurant at Colombo Court is “Thai Kirumba”. The hotel houses 31 rooms (divided Cloud Café, a rooftop restaurant and beautifully Super deluxe room The venue also consists of a small conference into three categories: deluxe rooms, spacious area (able to host 70 pax), perfect for room, Scarlet Room, and also a library, gym, super deluxe rooms, and suites), a duplex socialising while maintaining physical distance. Secondly, they’ve got the Loft Lounge Bar and spa. for families, and a honeymoon suite. The restaurant is best known for their pizzas, which is often utilised when Cloud Cafe cannot A highlight of the hotel, worth of mention, The beautifully appointed rooms famous for being the most affordable pizzas be used, for example, when it rains. and suites are accented with recycled in Colombo, ensuring you get your The ambience at Loft allows a quiet corner bicycle parts, keeping in line with the money’s worth. Unsurprisingly, for couples who want to be alone or hotel’s overall design theme of their pizzas are their a family who want to have sustainability and upcycling. best selling item. a private drink. It is They stated that while essentially a place Colombo Court is best known to experience for their outlets, their main the standard revenue-generator is their bar vibe. rooms. They said that due to However, the pandemic, the number of primarily, guests who visited the hotel, Loft is a sports which mainly comprised foreign bar and according guests, particularly European to the management guests followed by Canadian if there is any sporting and Australian guests, was highly event happening, even if affected. it is to go on until 3 a.m. In the local market, guests often the next day, they will screen tend to be families and friends it. As such, there will always coming in for a spend-the-day be a place for you to catch the to use the pool, Colombo game at Loft. Court said, sharing Thirdly, there is the poolside that they would then All-day dining at Colombo Court Hotel & Spa restaurant which operates mainly for Lobby area the morning sports Monday, July 13, 2020 Windies win first Test AG requests player statements Mendis’ blood sample on the way West Indies (WI) beat England by four in their first Test in Attorney General (AG) Dappula de Livera has requested the record of the The blood sample report indicating whether Southampton yesterday (12). Zak Crawley (76) and Dom Sibley (50) scored statements made by complainant Mahindananda Aluthgamage and the Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Mendis was drunk at fifties in the England second innings, which continued on to the fifth and final defendants who testified before the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), Aravinda the time he ran over a cyclist in Panadura in his day yesterday from its overnight 284/8. The visitors, having to chase 200 runs de Silva, , and , before announcing his SUV in the wee hours of 5 June is expected to be to win, were stuttering at 100/4, but Jermaine Blackwood (95 and pictured), verdict on the match-fixing/spot-fixing allegation regarding the 2011 out this week. “It (the test report) will go straight Roston Chase (37), and Shane Dowrich (20) carried them home comfortably final, Sports Ministry Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra told to the court,” the OIC of the Panadura North in the final session of play. Shannon Gabriel took a match-bag of 137/9 for The Morning Sports yesterday (12). SIU Head SSP Jagath Fonseka on 3 July Police Station told The Morning Sports the Windies. The brief scores read as: England 204 and 313; WI 318 and 200/6. submitted only their report of the investigation to the AG, it was reported. yesterday (12). Dialog returns as SL

Obituary: cricket team sponsor! Danasiri H.A. z Negotiations are on to increase sponsorship value Weerasinghe BY REVATHA S. SILVA Delicate financial situation z Will be missed by his old Trying times; particularly at the helm school and cricketing societies economically. As talks gather The Morning Sports revealed last to which he contributed greatly steam about a second wave Thursday (9), quoting a senior Sri Lanka Danasiri H.A. Weerasinghe, son of of Covid-19 in the island, the Cricket (SLC) official, that there won’t Hector and Vivien Weerasinghe, passed governing body of the most be any international cricket in Sri Lanka away peacefully on 7 July 2020 at his popular sport of the country, Sri this year, which is bad news, particularly home in Melbourne, surrounded by family. Lanka Cricket (SLC), is in a hectic for the SLC coffers. The television rights He was best known in Sri Lanka for bid to finalise the Sri Lankan and sponsorship revenue garnered through his cricketing prowess as an cricket team sponsorship for the series and tournaments are the main source all-rounder. He attended Ananda of income for SLC. College, Colombo, captaining the Ananda next three years. The Morning “The cash inflow is going to be affected cricket team in 1955 and was eventually Sports reliably learnt that SLC’s badly. We have to be careful and concerned selected for the Ceylon cricket team. previous partner, Dialog Axiata (about the financial activities of SLC), He captained the All Ceylon Cricket PLC, is certain to become Sri mainly in our development projects. And team in 1969. At the age of 20, he joined Lanka’s national cricket team we need to prioritise our expenses,” an the Colombo police force and attained sponsor for the next three-year SLC official said yesterday (12). the rank of Inspector. During this time he cycle as well. Amongst the already postponed/ married his teenage sweetheart, Chatra cancelled home series are the high-profile Tennakoon in 1965, followed in quick “There are two bidders (for the sponsorship ones such as the India and South Africa succession by the birth of their three of the team). There is limited-over series as well as the Test daughters. another Indian party also that has quoted. series against England and Bangladesh. Migrating to Australia in 1974 with his But it is lower than Dialog’s quotation. Plans to hold the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka family, he formed strong and life-long Therefore, we can say Dialog will be our Sponsorship value in September too went awry mainly due friendships, and contributed in roles such next sponsor for the three upcoming years,” a Telecom giant Dialog sealed the title of to the worsening pandemic situation in as the President of the Sri Lanka Club senior SLC official told The Morning Sports “Official National Team Sponsor of Sri Lanka the region. for many years. on condition of anonymity. Cricket”, for both the men’s and women’s When asked whether it would be a tricky He was a wonderful, loving, generous, teams on inbound tours, in June 2013 for road ahead for SLC for the remainder of and kind father, husband, brother, brother- Lower bid, but negotiations three years at a value of Rs. 754 million, it this year, the senior official answered in in-law, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, are on was reported then. the affirmative. and friend to all. He will be missed dearly. Yet, owing to the uncertain situation Previously, their industry competitor, Sri “We may have to curtail our development Those who knew him are grateful for the Covid-19 has created in the cricketing world, Lanka Telecom Mobitel, owned the three- activities,” he added, indicating that the time they had with him. He will be deeply In this picture from 2016, SLC General Secretary the continuous postponement of inbound year sponsorship which was valued at over Mohan de Silva (third from left) is seen shaking day-to-day work of the national body is missed by his old school and cricketing international cricket tours, and the bleak Rs. 550 million. hands with Dialog Axiata General Manager still unharmed. communities to which he contributed economic atmosphere owing to the pandemic The sponsorship is often considered as – Brand and Media Harsha Samaranayake as so greatly. has devalued the sponsorship bidding for the one of “the country’s biggest national assets of the national cricket team (SLC) have maintained a very good relationship His funeral was held on Saturday, 2020-23 period. with worldwide appeal”. In 2016, Dialog and SLC CEO Ashley de Silva (partly hidden) with them. We are trying to negotiate with them 11 July 2020 from 1-3 p.m., and given look on “They (Dialog) have given a low figure extended the sponsorship for three further and try to get a better offer,” he confirmed. the current restrictions, it was a private compared to the previous three years. So years, for a little over Rs. 800 million that official ascertained that they are going to be “The negotiation will most probably funeral. Yet, it was a celebration of we are hoping to negotiate with them,” time around. highly content with Dialog carrying through take place this week. If both parties are Weerasinghe’s life, as he would have the SLC official, who is aware of the for the next three-year cycle. agreeable, then within a couple of weeks, wished, by toasting him with a shot of ongoing sponsorship bidding process, Deal to be finalised soon “We are happy to continue with Dialog we will be able to finalise it,” the official "top-shelf whisky"! confirmed. Despite the lower bid this time, the SLC because they have been a valuable partner. We predicted.

Now who’s fixing and who’s getting fixed? – Part 2 a new stadium and a valid one if the plans SQUARE The first part of this column, published are confirmed, but why is that possibility not on Monday, 29 June, attempted to point mentioned by the supporters of the project? CUTS out the “grey areas” of the 2011 World The Covid-19 pandemic has brought Sri by Sudat Pasqual Cup final, which the then Sports Minister Lanka’s economy to a halt. There are no new Mahindananda Aluthgamage alleged mega projects that can be used to spread was fixed and “sold to India” by some cheer. There’s an election looming around individuals – not players – attached to the corner. Is the Government looking at Those who are familiar with the subject of the Sri Lankan team. Here is the second cricket to kick-start the economy with this betting in cricket will know that spot-fixing and final part of the analytic opinion on mega stadium project? is likely to be the more frequent occurrence that contentious fixing allegation. There’s also the likelihood that certain than match-fixing for the simple reason that it vested interests are concerned about is much more difficult to prove an allegation The Minister is pointing the investigation the rapid rise of Kumar Sangakkara’s of spot-fixing than it is to prove the fixing in that direction by asking the investigation public profile. Sangakkara was and is a of a result. There are dozens, if not more, to concentrate on patterns of betting during mega presence both in the national and ways of spot-fixing during a cricket match a specific period of the match. international stages and if he’s promoted whereas there are only three outcomes that It’s fairly conclusive that Mahindananda to take over and resurrect the crumbling can be fixed in terms of the final decision. A It is fairly conclusive that Mahindananda Aluthgamage has Kumar Sangakkara and Aravinda de Silva Aluthgamage has Kumar Sangakkara and monolith that is Sri Lanka Cricket, it is match could be fixed where one side allows in cross hairs. He is open about it. Aravinda de Silva in cross hairs. He is open likely to be met with great support at the other side to win or connive the result about it. But why now? all levels. That would be, except in the yy A batsman could get himself out to end as a draw or tie. With regard to spot- above, happen before and during the 2011 Does this have any connection to the corridors of Sri Lanka Cricket. Considering at a decided time or score in a pre- fixing there are numerous possibilities. Let’s World Cup final? While it would be extremely planned cricket stadium in the outskirts this, maybe this allegation is a warning shot determined manner think of a few: difficult to conclude that the final result of of Colombo? Ever since the project across the bow of Sangakkara’s perceived yy A fielder could agree to wear a certain yy A captain may decide to either bat or that match was manipulated in favour of was mooted, it has been met with fierce ambitions, to force Sangakkara to consider type of head wear during a certain period field after winning the toss as arranged India, if the parameters of possibilities are resistance from all except a few. Kumar what may be lurking ahead. of the match expanded to include spot-fixing, will the Sangakkara and have Regardless, a formal inquiry into the yy A captain is able to change the bowlers, yy A player could feint an injury as agreed conclusion be different? been at the forefront of that resistance. Those matter with details of the findings made fielders, order, bowling order and during and/or prior to a match Mahindananda Aluthgamage said that who are promoting the project have been public would be beneficial because at a decide the exact time to request a new he is not accusing any players but he long on plans but short on details including minimum it would serve as a warning ball as agreed with a betting entity yy Prior to the match, selectors could decide on the inclusion or exclusion of players has signalled out the actions of skipper who and how it would be funded and the to those who indulge in illegal betting yy A bowler could deliberately bowl a from the 11 as agreed Sangakkara for special scrutiny. The reason projected avenues of revenue generation. activities. Of course, if the findings are certain type of delivery at an agreed is more than likely because the former The International Cricket Council (ICC) not made public and this episode becomes yy Team officials could collude with the time or bowl a wide and/or no ball at an Minister knows that by giving attention to has denied any financial commitment but a one-off happening, then the status quo captain and betting interests during the agreed time specific actions of the skipper, he would be has been quoted as saying of arrogance, political interference, and match so that a certain act or outcome yy A fielder could deliberately misfield, able to get the investigators to expand their that the Indian Premier League (IPL) may disregard for rules that become the norm will take place as agreed drop a catch, or give overthrows investigation to include the possibility of consider moving to Sri Lanka in the short in cricket administration in Sri Lanka will as agreed Did something of that nature, as detailed spot-fixing taking place during the match. term. That is a heck of an incentive to build most likely continue as before.